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Detective Madison Harper #9
As They Lay Sleeping
Tucked under her blanket, a teddy placed on the pillow beside her, the little girl could be sleeping. Madison’s blood runs cold as she stares at the crime scene. Not wanting to believe what she’s seeing, she vows to bring the child’s twisted killer to justice…
Detective Madison Harper is about to be the happiest woman in the world. As she walks down the aisle toward her fiancé Nate, a bouquet clasped in her hands, she can’t believe she’s finally getting to marry her soulmate. But before they can exchange vows, a shot echoes through the air and screams ring out. Someone drops to the ground in a pool of blood…
The next day, still dazed from the fallout, Madison is called to another crime scene. Local woman Denise and her young daughter Lucy have been found dead in their home. Dressed in yellow pajamas, the little girl is on her stomach, her face hidden by her fine blonde hair. Her mother lies still down the hall, as if resting. What kind of monster would do this?
With two potential killers on the loose in a town reeling with shock, Madison receives a threat from the wedding shooter which turns the entire case upside down. With time running out before another life is lost, can she get justice for the victims and stop two cold-blooded killers in their tracks?
Detective Madison Harper is about to be the happiest woman in the world. As she walks down the aisle toward her fiancé Nate, a bouquet clasped in her hands, she can’t believe she’s finally getting to marry her soulmate. But before they can exchange vows, a shot echoes through the air and screams ring out. Someone drops to the ground in a pool of blood…
The next day, still dazed from the fallout, Madison is called to another crime scene. Local woman Denise and her young daughter Lucy have been found dead in their home. Dressed in yellow pajamas, the little girl is on her stomach, her face hidden by her fine blonde hair. Her mother lies still down the hall, as if resting. What kind of monster would do this?
With two potential killers on the loose in a town reeling with shock, Madison receives a threat from the wedding shooter which turns the entire case upside down. With time running out before another life is lost, can she get justice for the victims and stop two cold-blooded killers in their tracks?
364 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 6, 2025
432 people are currently reading
100 people want to read
About the author
Wendy Dranfield
21 books624 followersWendy is the author of the Detective Madison Harper series. Her novels and short stories have been shortlisted and longlisted for various writing competitions and awards, including the International Thriller Writer Awards.
Please note; as Wendy writes crime fiction, including police procedurals and psychological thrillers, her books contain plots, characters and actions dealing with a variety of crimes, including physical and psychological.
Wendy does not use social media, so if you find an account pretending to be her on any platform, it’s 100% fake! Visit her website for the most accurate and up-to-date information about her books: wendydranfield.co.uk
The final book in the Det. Madison Harper series will be out in May 2026.
Please note; as Wendy writes crime fiction, including police procedurals and psychological thrillers, her books contain plots, characters and actions dealing with a variety of crimes, including physical and psychological.
Wendy does not use social media, so if you find an account pretending to be her on any platform, it’s 100% fake! Visit her website for the most accurate and up-to-date information about her books: wendydranfield.co.uk
The final book in the Det. Madison Harper series will be out in May 2026.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
October 5, 2025
Netgally ARC 🖤
Okay readers, buckle up — because you will read this book in one sitting.
Wendy Dranfield has done it again. This book is a whirlwind of emotions: you’ll laugh out loud at the sharp humor, you’ll cry at the moments of raw compassion and redemption, and just when you think you’ve figured it all out? BAM — the rug gets pulled out from under you. It’s twisty, it’s emotional, it’s unputdownable.
Wendy’s storytelling is absolutely addictive. As much as I wanted to savor this book and make it last, it’s just not possible with her writing. Once you start, you're in. And while I was thrilled to receive an ARC (thank you!!), the fact that I now have to wait who-knows-how-long for the next one? It's torture.
This book proves, once again, why Wendy Dranfield deserves a spot on your favorites list — if she’s not already there.
Okay readers, buckle up — because you will read this book in one sitting.
Wendy Dranfield has done it again. This book is a whirlwind of emotions: you’ll laugh out loud at the sharp humor, you’ll cry at the moments of raw compassion and redemption, and just when you think you’ve figured it all out? BAM — the rug gets pulled out from under you. It’s twisty, it’s emotional, it’s unputdownable.
Wendy’s storytelling is absolutely addictive. As much as I wanted to savor this book and make it last, it’s just not possible with her writing. Once you start, you're in. And while I was thrilled to receive an ARC (thank you!!), the fact that I now have to wait who-knows-how-long for the next one? It's torture.
This book proves, once again, why Wendy Dranfield deserves a spot on your favorites list — if she’s not already there.
October 6, 2025
An explosive beginning, a fast paced thriller read with great characters. It took me all my time to keep up with them.
A great series which I absolutely love and a great author which I can thoroughly recommend.
A great series which I absolutely love and a great author which I can thoroughly recommend.
October 6, 2025
No one likes waiting but I have to say I appreciate the time the author takes to write the books in this series because man, that was amazing! The complex plots make these more satisfying than standard police procedurals because everything makes perfect sense the minute you reach the end and the resolutions always make me want to do an immediate reread to work out how I missed all the clues she gave us along the way. As for Madison and Nate, I gasped, laughed, and cried right along with them and my book hangover has already begun. Book 10 can't come soon enough.
October 7, 2025
It figures that Madison and Nate could not have a stress-free wedding! Interrupted by a gunshot, the ceremony is postponed as everyone flees for safety. No one knows if Madison or Nate was the intended target, so they have to be extra vigilant as they start to investigate. But then the very next day, another crime is reported, and this one is heartbreaking, as it’s a mother and her young daughter. Neither is alive. The team has to split their resources as they investigate both cases, which include some seriously toxic and dysfunctional families.
This story is really emotional at times; it’s never easy reading about young victims. And then the more the characters learn about why crimes were committed, the harder it is to deal with the senselessness of it all. But there are light moments as well, like the way Brody helps collect evidence of the shooting. Is there anything this adorable dog can’t do?
I really love this series - Madison and Nate are some of the most relatable characters out there. They have their flaws, and so often it feels like the world is against them, no matter how hard they try. I’m sure many readers know what that’s like. Yet they always manage to find justice for the victims and their families. And every once in a while, they manage to squeeze in a wedding!
This story is really emotional at times; it’s never easy reading about young victims. And then the more the characters learn about why crimes were committed, the harder it is to deal with the senselessness of it all. But there are light moments as well, like the way Brody helps collect evidence of the shooting. Is there anything this adorable dog can’t do?
I really love this series - Madison and Nate are some of the most relatable characters out there. They have their flaws, and so often it feels like the world is against them, no matter how hard they try. I’m sure many readers know what that’s like. Yet they always manage to find justice for the victims and their families. And every once in a while, they manage to squeeze in a wedding!
October 16, 2025
Oh boy this one was emotional! I think I say that every time! I'm not ashamed to admit I've been fully invested in Nate and Madison's lives since the beginning & it was great to be back with them again. As usual I didn't guess the killer & that ending had me gape at my partner openmouthed. This was a complex & exciting book that will stay with me long afterward. I honestly cannot wait for the next instalment.
October 11, 2025
Madison is back! I love this series. There are two storylines going on in this book. Madison is on the hunt for who murdered Denise and her little girl Lucy. Nate is investigating what happened in a missing persons case. Are these two cases intertwined? This is one of my favorite series not just because I love Madison, Nate, and Owen but because the author makes sure you're invested in their lives ,their cases, and the people in this small town. Once you start this book, you really do stay up all night reading!! Great addition to this series. Excellent!!
November 8, 2025
would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this amazing book
i actually cried real tears at the ending of this book ...its so tense in places that at times i was on the edge of my seat awating the outcome and boy was it a doozy.....
when maddison takes the call about a two murdered female victims she heads out to the scene but its the little girl that affects her and realising how scared the little girl must have been after witnessing her mothers murder.... its a nightmare scene for madison...
if that isnt enough for madison she also has a wedding date to get to
who doesnt like a wedding.... and finally madison is walking down the aisle at last she is going to marry nate... yeah right just as its about to start a shot is fired .....
so as if thats not bad enough with the wedding postponed nate is then hired to look for a missing woman but 30 years has lapsed since she was last seen and heard from...
ohhh man this storyline is complex and heartwrenching but its so captivating you cant put the book down... so much happens its jaw dropping
sad to realise that there will only be one more book in this brilliant series but i cant wait to read what this author is going to put them through before she finishes with them...
i actually cried real tears at the ending of this book ...its so tense in places that at times i was on the edge of my seat awating the outcome and boy was it a doozy.....
when maddison takes the call about a two murdered female victims she heads out to the scene but its the little girl that affects her and realising how scared the little girl must have been after witnessing her mothers murder.... its a nightmare scene for madison...
if that isnt enough for madison she also has a wedding date to get to
who doesnt like a wedding.... and finally madison is walking down the aisle at last she is going to marry nate... yeah right just as its about to start a shot is fired .....
so as if thats not bad enough with the wedding postponed nate is then hired to look for a missing woman but 30 years has lapsed since she was last seen and heard from...
ohhh man this storyline is complex and heartwrenching but its so captivating you cant put the book down... so much happens its jaw dropping
sad to realise that there will only be one more book in this brilliant series but i cant wait to read what this author is going to put them through before she finishes with them...
October 4, 2025
What an action packed book full of intrigue.
I did not read the first books in this series but will now. I was able to follow along and enjoy the book but know that many “huge” events happened to both the H and h in the last books. Sounds like those books will be awesome too.
The h is a strong woman that has gone through many trials in life but she is a survivor !
The book kept you guessing and invested in the storyline. Will definitely read more books by this author.
**
I did not read the first books in this series but will now. I was able to follow along and enjoy the book but know that many “huge” events happened to both the H and h in the last books. Sounds like those books will be awesome too.
The h is a strong woman that has gone through many trials in life but she is a survivor !
The book kept you guessing and invested in the storyline. Will definitely read more books by this author.
**
October 3, 2025
Madison Harper, a detective who spent years wrongly incarcerated, and her fiancé, Nate, a private investigator, are about to be married when a shot rings out at the ceremony, killing their officiant. The next day, Madison is assigned the double homicide of a mother and her young daughter, while Nate investigates the disappearance of a woman thirty years ago.
This is the ninth in the Detective Madison Harper series; I have read three of them. This works as a standalone, although the main characters have significant histories that are only hinted at in this installment.
This is another suspenseful page-turner with twists and unexpected revelations. It is fast paced as Madison and her team race to prevent any further bloodshed. There are both multi- and interwoven plot lines, with some flashbacks that provide background. Just a warning: get ready to meet some pretty despicable people.
Wendy Dranfield’s Madison Harper has become another on my “must-read” list. I look forward to the next installment
Thanks to @NetGalley and @Bookouture for the DRC.
This is the ninth in the Detective Madison Harper series; I have read three of them. This works as a standalone, although the main characters have significant histories that are only hinted at in this installment.
This is another suspenseful page-turner with twists and unexpected revelations. It is fast paced as Madison and her team race to prevent any further bloodshed. There are both multi- and interwoven plot lines, with some flashbacks that provide background. Just a warning: get ready to meet some pretty despicable people.
Wendy Dranfield’s Madison Harper has become another on my “must-read” list. I look forward to the next installment
Thanks to @NetGalley and @Bookouture for the DRC.
October 8, 2025
Imagine you’re about to exchange your wedding vows, and suddenly a gunshot rings out—someone falls to the ground. Gone is the atmosphere is the understatement of the day…
Everyone, whether you’re a seasoned detective like Madison or an experienced sleuth like Nate, panics. Is the shooter still around? What if the shot was meant for one of them?
As if that wasn’t unsettling enough to give her a sleepless night, Madison is handed another case the next morning. Her hair was still standing on end from the previous day, and when she arrives on the scene, her heart shatters into a thousand pieces.
While she tries to divide her time between the two cases that occupy her, Nate is also given an assignment. Feverishly, they both search for clues to put the perpetrator(s) behind bars. Digging deeper and deeper, they uncover horrifying conclusions…
I’ve been a fan of this series since the very first story. Not only the characters, but also the writing style, the suspense, and the plots are of high quality. Starting a book by this author and being able to put it down? Impossible—but unfortunately sometimes necessary.
I always find it especially satisfying when all loose ends are neatly tied up and explained logically, as this author does so excellently. It allows you, as a reader, to think and investigate alongside the characters, which only increases the reading pleasure.
I’m looking forward to my next appointment with Madison and her entourage. A fantastic read. 5 stars.
Everyone, whether you’re a seasoned detective like Madison or an experienced sleuth like Nate, panics. Is the shooter still around? What if the shot was meant for one of them?
As if that wasn’t unsettling enough to give her a sleepless night, Madison is handed another case the next morning. Her hair was still standing on end from the previous day, and when she arrives on the scene, her heart shatters into a thousand pieces.
While she tries to divide her time between the two cases that occupy her, Nate is also given an assignment. Feverishly, they both search for clues to put the perpetrator(s) behind bars. Digging deeper and deeper, they uncover horrifying conclusions…
I’ve been a fan of this series since the very first story. Not only the characters, but also the writing style, the suspense, and the plots are of high quality. Starting a book by this author and being able to put it down? Impossible—but unfortunately sometimes necessary.
I always find it especially satisfying when all loose ends are neatly tied up and explained logically, as this author does so excellently. It allows you, as a reader, to think and investigate alongside the characters, which only increases the reading pleasure.
I’m looking forward to my next appointment with Madison and her entourage. A fantastic read. 5 stars.
October 6, 2025
This is a suspenseful novel! The plot is very complex tending to sometimes get confusing . It all does make sense in the end, but I felt the storyline was a bit over the top. Characterisation is good , I like the police team. The author sometimes gives explanations when it is actually not needed (often starting with "suggesting that"). The context is explicit enough. Overall a thrilling and creepy crime book!
I received a digital copy of this novel from NetGalley and I have voluntarily written an honest review.
I received a digital copy of this novel from NetGalley and I have voluntarily written an honest review.
November 7, 2025
Another great crime thriller from Wendy Dranfield.
Madison and Nate finally get it together and arrange their wedding, but whilst standing together ready to tie the knot, a shot is fired.
They are both okay but very shaken and are determined to find the shooter.
They are also both working on difficult cases and then Madison has to face the fact that her sister is seriously ill.
There’s lots going on in this book, and I really enjoyed it.
Thanks to Bookouture for the opportunity to read this book.
Madison and Nate finally get it together and arrange their wedding, but whilst standing together ready to tie the knot, a shot is fired.
They are both okay but very shaken and are determined to find the shooter.
They are also both working on difficult cases and then Madison has to face the fact that her sister is seriously ill.
There’s lots going on in this book, and I really enjoyed it.
Thanks to Bookouture for the opportunity to read this book.
November 4, 2025
As They Lay Sleeping by Wendy Dranfield
Whew! This was fantastic, from page one! This was my first dive into the world of Madison Harper, but I have added the series to my TBR.
You know a series is well-written and loved when you can jump in at book nine and feel entirely at home. I love Madison. She was such a brilliant character, and her chemistry with Nate was off the charts.
The way this story evolved, intertwined, spiraled, and came together was pure bliss. The chaos was so well choreographed. The pacing was solid. Intense enough to keep me hooked, with just enough emotional power to have me invested to the very end.
The writing was excellent, the storytelling top tier, and these characters were all dynamic. It is easy to see why this is the ninth book in this series. The twists just kept falling in my lap. Also, Brody is the best boy.
Publication date: November 6, 2025
Publisher: Bookouture
Whew! This was fantastic, from page one! This was my first dive into the world of Madison Harper, but I have added the series to my TBR.
You know a series is well-written and loved when you can jump in at book nine and feel entirely at home. I love Madison. She was such a brilliant character, and her chemistry with Nate was off the charts.
The way this story evolved, intertwined, spiraled, and came together was pure bliss. The chaos was so well choreographed. The pacing was solid. Intense enough to keep me hooked, with just enough emotional power to have me invested to the very end.
The writing was excellent, the storytelling top tier, and these characters were all dynamic. It is easy to see why this is the ninth book in this series. The twists just kept falling in my lap. Also, Brody is the best boy.
Publication date: November 6, 2025
Publisher: Bookouture
November 1, 2025
Another incredible book in this series, which is one of the best thriller series' ever written!
The main characters, Madison, Nate, Owen and Brodie, are a huge part of what makes these books so good, and, combined with Wendy Dranfield's superb writing and well thought out, multi layered plots, it's a series that I miss as soon as I've finished the latest instalment.
The book starts with Madison and Nate (finally) about to get married, until a gunshot rings out and someone is dead. Then a mother and daughter are murdered and it's back to work for Madison, while Nate is approached about investigating a missing person's case from years ago. With all three cases connected to the local community, there are inevitable crossovers, but the twists that hit were insanely good and completely unexpected.
This is an absolute page-turner; I was hooked right from the start and devoured it in one sitting. It works as a standalone, but I can promise you'll want to go back and catch up afterwards, ready for book 10!
5 ⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley, Wendy Dranfield and Bookouture, for an ARC of this book.
The main characters, Madison, Nate, Owen and Brodie, are a huge part of what makes these books so good, and, combined with Wendy Dranfield's superb writing and well thought out, multi layered plots, it's a series that I miss as soon as I've finished the latest instalment.
The book starts with Madison and Nate (finally) about to get married, until a gunshot rings out and someone is dead. Then a mother and daughter are murdered and it's back to work for Madison, while Nate is approached about investigating a missing person's case from years ago. With all three cases connected to the local community, there are inevitable crossovers, but the twists that hit were insanely good and completely unexpected.
This is an absolute page-turner; I was hooked right from the start and devoured it in one sitting. It works as a standalone, but I can promise you'll want to go back and catch up afterwards, ready for book 10!
5 ⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley, Wendy Dranfield and Bookouture, for an ARC of this book.
October 27, 2025
Wow!! Just give me a minute to get my breath back!
Finally, it’s Madison and Nate’s turn to be happy, finally she is walking down the aisle but then disaster strikes as someone falls down dead, having been shot. This is just the start of things as Madison has yet another grisly case to investigate.
Meanwhile, Nate begins investigating a cold case, a disappearance from 30years ago. Be ready for a whirlwind journey through this one, with the action and suspense starting on page one and not stopping until the end!
I’ve loved all the Madison Harper series, but this one is definitely one of my favourites.
Just when you think you might have a handle of things, in comes another twist!! I can’t believe quite how many plot twists the author weaved into this book.
The pace is brilliant through this book, with perfect length chapters. I’d definitely recommend reading the other books in this series, but if you haven’t read them, you can still enjoy this one. The author has included just the right amount of detail to remind you what has happened previously. Again the characters are so well developed and beloved Brody is back in the thick of the action again.
This one will really keep you on your toes, so find somewhere to hide away and loose yourself for a few hours!
Finally, it’s Madison and Nate’s turn to be happy, finally she is walking down the aisle but then disaster strikes as someone falls down dead, having been shot. This is just the start of things as Madison has yet another grisly case to investigate.
Meanwhile, Nate begins investigating a cold case, a disappearance from 30years ago. Be ready for a whirlwind journey through this one, with the action and suspense starting on page one and not stopping until the end!
I’ve loved all the Madison Harper series, but this one is definitely one of my favourites.
Just when you think you might have a handle of things, in comes another twist!! I can’t believe quite how many plot twists the author weaved into this book.
The pace is brilliant through this book, with perfect length chapters. I’d definitely recommend reading the other books in this series, but if you haven’t read them, you can still enjoy this one. The author has included just the right amount of detail to remind you what has happened previously. Again the characters are so well developed and beloved Brody is back in the thick of the action again.
This one will really keep you on your toes, so find somewhere to hide away and loose yourself for a few hours!
November 8, 2025
WOW
I have read and enjoyed each book in this series but Wendy Dranfield really pulled out all the stops in this book! It was totally riveting!
I have read and enjoyed each book in this series but Wendy Dranfield really pulled out all the stops in this book! It was totally riveting!
November 2, 2025
As They Lay Sleeping” stands out as a strong entry in the Detective Madison Harper series. It blends heart-wrenching stakes (innocent victims, children, threatened wedding) with solid procedural suspense and a root-for-her protagonist. Dranfield keeps the tension high, the pace brisk, and the outcome satisfying while still leaving enough unresolved threads that I’m eager for the next installment.
This is one of my favorite series and this was one that I couldn’t put down.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced copy for an honest review.
This is one of my favorite series and this was one that I couldn’t put down.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced copy for an honest review.
November 2, 2025
Life is never easy for Madison and Nate, they can't ever catch a break, even on their Wedding day, and so begins the explosive start to this great read.
Another multilayered engrossing tale with SO many twists! Brilliant main plots that weave and intertwine. The plots are excellent but what really makes this series such a standout is the characters. As always an unputdownable read.
Another multilayered engrossing tale with SO many twists! Brilliant main plots that weave and intertwine. The plots are excellent but what really makes this series such a standout is the characters. As always an unputdownable read.
October 31, 2025
Thanks NetGalley for the ARC of As They Lay Sleeping by Wendy Drainfield, published by Bookouture
This was a fast paced book you won't want to put down. Awesome characters, great plot and subplot, everything is well described and played out. Even though this is 9th in a series, it's also easily read as a standalone, it's the first book I've read by this author. Will absolutely read more. This novel was action packed and full of who dunnit, love how everything comes together in the end.
This was a fast paced book you won't want to put down. Awesome characters, great plot and subplot, everything is well described and played out. Even though this is 9th in a series, it's also easily read as a standalone, it's the first book I've read by this author. Will absolutely read more. This novel was action packed and full of who dunnit, love how everything comes together in the end.
December 29, 2025
From the chilling beginning to the heart-stopping finale, this book had me completely hooked. The story begins with what should have been Madison’s happiest moment — her wedding day — and instantly turns it into a nightmare that sets the tone for everything that follows. The emotional impact is intense, and the pacing never lets up.
I loved how vivid and real the characters feel — Madison, Nate, even Brody and Bandit have such strong, distinct roles that make the story come alive. Madison’s personal life gets deeply intertwined with the investigation this time, and that adds so much tension and depth. The way the two cases unfold side by side is brilliantly plotted — dark, fast-paced, and full of surprises that kept me guessing right until the end.
Once again, the author delivers a perfect balance of emotional storytelling, clever twists, and strong procedural detail. It’s not just a great crime thriller — it’s also about love, resilience, and what it means to keep fighting when everything falls apart.
If you’ve followed Madison Harper’s journey, this installment is a must-read. And if you haven’t yet — start now. You won’t be able to stop.
I loved how vivid and real the characters feel — Madison, Nate, even Brody and Bandit have such strong, distinct roles that make the story come alive. Madison’s personal life gets deeply intertwined with the investigation this time, and that adds so much tension and depth. The way the two cases unfold side by side is brilliantly plotted — dark, fast-paced, and full of surprises that kept me guessing right until the end.
Once again, the author delivers a perfect balance of emotional storytelling, clever twists, and strong procedural detail. It’s not just a great crime thriller — it’s also about love, resilience, and what it means to keep fighting when everything falls apart.
If you’ve followed Madison Harper’s journey, this installment is a must-read. And if you haven’t yet — start now. You won’t be able to stop.
November 10, 2025
This was such a good addition to the Detective Madison Harper series! I’ve loved following Madison through all the books, and this one definitely kept me hooked.
I felt so bad for Madison with what happens at her wedding, but it made the story even more emotional. She’s one of my favorite detectives because she’s tough but still feels so real and easy to root for. The twists were wild, and I honestly couldn’t stop reading!
If you’ve been keeping up with this series, this one is a must-read. It’s emotional, fast-paced, and everything I love about these books.
I felt so bad for Madison with what happens at her wedding, but it made the story even more emotional. She’s one of my favorite detectives because she’s tough but still feels so real and easy to root for. The twists were wild, and I honestly couldn’t stop reading!
If you’ve been keeping up with this series, this one is a must-read. It’s emotional, fast-paced, and everything I love about these books.
October 20, 2025
This series never disappoints.
November 15, 2025
Fast paced excellent story I didn’t see where it was going
Can’t wait for the next one as a married couple
Can’t wait for the next one as a married couple
November 21, 2025
As They Lay Sleeping is the 9th book in the Detective Madison Harper series. It can be read as a standalone, however, there were definitely things that would have been clearer if I had read the earlier books.
The story is engaging and starts with a hook. There were lots of characters to keep straight which was distracting at times.
The story wraps up in the end though I do think it was a bit unbelievable. I definitely did not see all the twists coming.
The main characters were likeable and you wanted them to win.
I enjoyed this story and plan to go back and read the earlier books in this series.
The story is engaging and starts with a hook. There were lots of characters to keep straight which was distracting at times.
The story wraps up in the end though I do think it was a bit unbelievable. I definitely did not see all the twists coming.
The main characters were likeable and you wanted them to win.
I enjoyed this story and plan to go back and read the earlier books in this series.
November 13, 2025
✅My thoughts:
I always enjoy getting back with Madison and her significant other, Nate. Both have pasts that they have tried to overcome. Madison is a detective now and Nate is a private investigator. Their backstory is quite interesting.
As They Lay Sleeping was one intense story! I literally could not put the book down!
Madison and her team are all over the place trying to figure out the murder of a mother and her young daughter. While Nate is doing his own investigation of a missing woman from 30 years ago.
😳So many moving parts!
😳So many characters!
😳So many secrets!
😳So many despicable people!
😳So many suspenseful moments!
As They Lay Sleeping is a brilliant, intricate and twisty read! With a very surprising ending!
I am looking forward to the next book in the series to see where Madison and Nate are in their life.
*This is the ninth book in the Detective Madison Harper series. Each book can be read as a standalone, although there is much back story to the main characters that is important to know. I highly recommend reading the books in order.
All opinions expressed are my own.
http://instagram.com/shortbookthyme
I always enjoy getting back with Madison and her significant other, Nate. Both have pasts that they have tried to overcome. Madison is a detective now and Nate is a private investigator. Their backstory is quite interesting.
As They Lay Sleeping was one intense story! I literally could not put the book down!
Madison and her team are all over the place trying to figure out the murder of a mother and her young daughter. While Nate is doing his own investigation of a missing woman from 30 years ago.
😳So many moving parts!
😳So many characters!
😳So many secrets!
😳So many despicable people!
😳So many suspenseful moments!
As They Lay Sleeping is a brilliant, intricate and twisty read! With a very surprising ending!
I am looking forward to the next book in the series to see where Madison and Nate are in their life.
*This is the ninth book in the Detective Madison Harper series. Each book can be read as a standalone, although there is much back story to the main characters that is important to know. I highly recommend reading the books in order.
All opinions expressed are my own.
http://instagram.com/shortbookthyme
November 6, 2025
This author delivers another bone-chilling, dynamic mystery in the Detective Madison Harper series. This series just keeps getting better.
Everything starts out innocently enough as Nate and Madison are finally getting married. However, I should have known nothing would be that easy as a bullet comes zipping into the ceremony, and now someone lies dead.
Still reeling from the disastrous almost wedding from the day before, Madison is called to the scene of a gruesome and disturbing dual murder of a mother and child.
With what appears to be two killers on the loose, everyone is on high alert hoping to prevent further bloodshed. They are also more than a little baffled at these events.
This intense mystery may result in a rise in your blood pressure. It was emotional and more than a little heartbreaking. There were so many loose ends dangling everywhere, but this author knows how to tie it up with a nice bow, even though it left me gasping for air.
I am officially addicted to this thrilling series, and the characters within it. I am a big fan of police procedurals, and this one blew me away.
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Everything starts out innocently enough as Nate and Madison are finally getting married. However, I should have known nothing would be that easy as a bullet comes zipping into the ceremony, and now someone lies dead.
Still reeling from the disastrous almost wedding from the day before, Madison is called to the scene of a gruesome and disturbing dual murder of a mother and child.
With what appears to be two killers on the loose, everyone is on high alert hoping to prevent further bloodshed. They are also more than a little baffled at these events.
This intense mystery may result in a rise in your blood pressure. It was emotional and more than a little heartbreaking. There were so many loose ends dangling everywhere, but this author knows how to tie it up with a nice bow, even though it left me gasping for air.
I am officially addicted to this thrilling series, and the characters within it. I am a big fan of police procedurals, and this one blew me away.
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 11, 2025
As They Lay Sleeping by Wendy Dranfield is a good addition to the series and a suspenseful thriller. The plot is well-crafted, with twists and turns, and when I thought I had it figured out, the author introduces new elements that challenged my assumptions.
The author effortlessly set a haunting atmosphere that lingered long after I finished the book. The juxtaposition of Madison's happiness on her wedding day with the tragic unfolding of events added a poignant layer to the narrative.
The crimes were tragic but portrayed in the story with sensitivity. As the suspense builds toward a nail-biting climax, I found myself fully invested in the outcome.
Overall, As They Lay Sleeping is a thrilling read combining heart-pounding suspense and profound emotional insight. I recommend this book and this series. At the end of the book, the author mentions that the series is ending and that one more book is coming. It will be interesting to see what happens and how these characters and their storylines are wrapped up. I will miss the characters, especially Brody and Bandit. I really enjoy these books and the characters.
#NetGalley @Bookouture
The author effortlessly set a haunting atmosphere that lingered long after I finished the book. The juxtaposition of Madison's happiness on her wedding day with the tragic unfolding of events added a poignant layer to the narrative.
The crimes were tragic but portrayed in the story with sensitivity. As the suspense builds toward a nail-biting climax, I found myself fully invested in the outcome.
Overall, As They Lay Sleeping is a thrilling read combining heart-pounding suspense and profound emotional insight. I recommend this book and this series. At the end of the book, the author mentions that the series is ending and that one more book is coming. It will be interesting to see what happens and how these characters and their storylines are wrapped up. I will miss the characters, especially Brody and Bandit. I really enjoy these books and the characters.
#NetGalley @Bookouture
October 15, 2025
Wendy Dranfield returns with another gripping installment in the Detective Madison Harper series, and this one hits hard from the very first page. As They Lay Sleeping is a masterclass in emotional suspense—equal parts heart-wrenching and heart-racing.
The story opens with what should be the happiest day of Madison’s life, only to spiral into chaos with a single gunshot. From there, Dranfield wastes no time plunging us into a chilling double homicide that shakes the small-town setting to its core. The imagery is haunting, the pacing relentless, and Madison’s personal stakes have never felt higher.
What makes this book stand out is its emotional depth. Madison isn’t just chasing killers—she’s navigating grief, guilt, and the fragile threads of hope. The writing is sharp and evocative, with just enough tenderness to balance the darkness. And the twists? Let’s just say you’ll want to clear your schedule.
If you love crime thrillers that blend psychological tension with raw humanity, this one’s a must-read. Dranfield knows how to keep you turning pages—and feeling every beat along the way.
With thanks to Wendy Dranfield, the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.
The story opens with what should be the happiest day of Madison’s life, only to spiral into chaos with a single gunshot. From there, Dranfield wastes no time plunging us into a chilling double homicide that shakes the small-town setting to its core. The imagery is haunting, the pacing relentless, and Madison’s personal stakes have never felt higher.
What makes this book stand out is its emotional depth. Madison isn’t just chasing killers—she’s navigating grief, guilt, and the fragile threads of hope. The writing is sharp and evocative, with just enough tenderness to balance the darkness. And the twists? Let’s just say you’ll want to clear your schedule.
If you love crime thrillers that blend psychological tension with raw humanity, this one’s a must-read. Dranfield knows how to keep you turning pages—and feeling every beat along the way.
With thanks to Wendy Dranfield, the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.
November 23, 2025
Wendy Dranfield's books are always "must read" ones when I come across them and this one did not disappoint either.
Madison is about to walk down the aisle, finally, when someone is killed in front of her. Obviously, the wedding is stopped instantly and Madison swings into Detective mode, even though she is still wearing her wedding dress.
The next day, a small girl and her mother are discovered dead and, of course, any small children found in this way are especially traumatising and Madison and her team try to figure out what the heck happened!
Meantime, Madison's fiance, Nate, is also making enquiries, from a slightly different angle as he is not law enforcement. He would also still like to marry Madison, ASAP, just as an aside.
Interesting case, with many twists and turns. I would have liked a bit more detail in the case of the "wedding day" murder, perhaps. I think that case was overshadowed by the second one, which is natural, but still.....
Enjoyed the Nate/Madison resolution (trying not to give spoilers, here!).
4.5 stars from me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture.
Madison is about to walk down the aisle, finally, when someone is killed in front of her. Obviously, the wedding is stopped instantly and Madison swings into Detective mode, even though she is still wearing her wedding dress.
The next day, a small girl and her mother are discovered dead and, of course, any small children found in this way are especially traumatising and Madison and her team try to figure out what the heck happened!
Meantime, Madison's fiance, Nate, is also making enquiries, from a slightly different angle as he is not law enforcement. He would also still like to marry Madison, ASAP, just as an aside.
Interesting case, with many twists and turns. I would have liked a bit more detail in the case of the "wedding day" murder, perhaps. I think that case was overshadowed by the second one, which is natural, but still.....
Enjoyed the Nate/Madison resolution (trying not to give spoilers, here!).
4.5 stars from me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture.
October 30, 2025
A wedding, a shooting and a double murder. Madison Harper and the Lost Creek police team are certainly thrown in at the deep end as this story begins. Meanwhile, the perplexing case of the fatal shooting of the wedding officiant, stuns the local community and throws up more questions than it answers.
While Madison investigates the murder of a mother and young daughter, her PI fiancé Nate is asked to look into the disappearance of a woman. - Sharon Smith. A cold case over 30 years old.
The author is a past master at pulling readers into the story, only to change course at the last moment. Having read the rest of the series, I have come to expect seemingly unconnected things which eventually have an uncanny way of fitting into place like pieces of a jigsaw puzzle. And As They Lay Sleeping is no exception.. Yet again she has produced another great story full of twists.
A compelling read.
Recommended.
I would like to thank Bookouture, the author and Netgalley for an ARC of As They Lay Sleeping in exchange for an honest review.
While Madison investigates the murder of a mother and young daughter, her PI fiancé Nate is asked to look into the disappearance of a woman. - Sharon Smith. A cold case over 30 years old.
The author is a past master at pulling readers into the story, only to change course at the last moment. Having read the rest of the series, I have come to expect seemingly unconnected things which eventually have an uncanny way of fitting into place like pieces of a jigsaw puzzle. And As They Lay Sleeping is no exception.. Yet again she has produced another great story full of twists.
A compelling read.
Recommended.
I would like to thank Bookouture, the author and Netgalley for an ARC of As They Lay Sleeping in exchange for an honest review.
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