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Annie Gore #2
Brimstone Hollow
Not yet published
Expected 11 Aug 26Following her powerful debut in The Witch’s Orchard, private investigator Annie Gore returns in Brimstone Hollow, bringing readers back to the mountains that author Archer Sullivan, a ninth generation Appalachian, knows so well.
There isn’t much that happens in the Appalachian Mountains that Private Investigator Annie Gore hasn’t seen. Before she joined the Air Force, she was born and raised in those rolling hills, and lately Annie's cases have called her away from her Louisville office and closer to the small towns of her youth than she ever anticipated. But when her newest client asks if she’s ever been to a snake-handling church, Annie knows she’s about to enter unknown territory.
Katie May has been estranged from her father―one of Appalachia’s last infamous snake handling preachers―for twenty years. But when Katie finds out he’s been fatally bitten, and a funeral was held within twenty-four hours, she questions whether someone deliberately rushed the process. Despite Annie’s doubts, she takes the case. After all, when she looks at Katie, she sees a version of herself: a girl who needs to understand her father in order to understand herself.
As she navigates the hidden hollers and dangerous secrets of this insular Eastern Kentucky town, Annie works fast, hoping to find the truth in record time for her client―and before too many memories from her own childhood surface. But it soon becomes apparent that someone wants Annie’s investigation to stop―by any means necessary.
There isn’t much that happens in the Appalachian Mountains that Private Investigator Annie Gore hasn’t seen. Before she joined the Air Force, she was born and raised in those rolling hills, and lately Annie's cases have called her away from her Louisville office and closer to the small towns of her youth than she ever anticipated. But when her newest client asks if she’s ever been to a snake-handling church, Annie knows she’s about to enter unknown territory.
Katie May has been estranged from her father―one of Appalachia’s last infamous snake handling preachers―for twenty years. But when Katie finds out he’s been fatally bitten, and a funeral was held within twenty-four hours, she questions whether someone deliberately rushed the process. Despite Annie’s doubts, she takes the case. After all, when she looks at Katie, she sees a version of herself: a girl who needs to understand her father in order to understand herself.
As she navigates the hidden hollers and dangerous secrets of this insular Eastern Kentucky town, Annie works fast, hoping to find the truth in record time for her client―and before too many memories from her own childhood surface. But it soon becomes apparent that someone wants Annie’s investigation to stop―by any means necessary.
304 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication August 11, 2026
14196 people want to read
About the author
Archer Sullivan
3 books309 followersArcher Sullivan is a ninth generation Appalachian. She's moved thirty-seven times and has lived everywhere from Monticello, Kentucky to Manhattan, New York and from Black Mountain, North Carolina to Beverly Hills, California. Her work has appeared in Ellery Queen Mystery Magazine, Tough, Shotgun Honey, Reckon Review, Rock and a Hard Place, and The Best Mystery Stories of the Year 2024.
source: Amazon
source: Amazon
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This one had a completely different feel from book one…dare I say it came off more polished? Flowed exceedingly well? Amazing pacing?
Archer Sullivan is a master at revealing the heartbeat of the Appalachian region. She finds the real treasures in this community, the ones the mountains and hollers have shaped, and shares how the isolation of this unique place has fostered strong communal relationships where solidarity and belonging are paramount and … snake handling pastors are no big deal! This close-knit community has a darker side, though. It protects the people who live in these mountains, and the lines between black and white become blurred. This is what makes Annie Gore’s work so difficult.
Sullivan’s narrative is built around the idea that there are some questions we’ll never know the answer to, and there are some things that we just have to let go. This isn’t easy for Annie Gore, a detective who revels in following clues to get definitive answers. This time, she’s been hired to investigate the death of Katie May’s father so that this young mother can have closure. Katie’s dad was an absent parent, and she finds it difficult to accept what life has given her and move on. Is she prepared for what Annie unearths? I wasn’t!
If a spectacular sense of place, unforgettable characters, and an intriguing murder mystery interest you, don’t miss out on this 5-star novel. Yes, it’s a sequel in the Annie Gore series, but it can stand alone.
I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Archer Sullivan is a master at revealing the heartbeat of the Appalachian region. She finds the real treasures in this community, the ones the mountains and hollers have shaped, and shares how the isolation of this unique place has fostered strong communal relationships where solidarity and belonging are paramount and … snake handling pastors are no big deal! This close-knit community has a darker side, though. It protects the people who live in these mountains, and the lines between black and white become blurred. This is what makes Annie Gore’s work so difficult.
Sullivan’s narrative is built around the idea that there are some questions we’ll never know the answer to, and there are some things that we just have to let go. This isn’t easy for Annie Gore, a detective who revels in following clues to get definitive answers. This time, she’s been hired to investigate the death of Katie May’s father so that this young mother can have closure. Katie’s dad was an absent parent, and she finds it difficult to accept what life has given her and move on. Is she prepared for what Annie unearths? I wasn’t!
If a spectacular sense of place, unforgettable characters, and an intriguing murder mystery interest you, don’t miss out on this 5-star novel. Yes, it’s a sequel in the Annie Gore series, but it can stand alone.
I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Want to Read
January 16, 2026I was so impressed with the authors debut, The Witch’s Orchard, so you can imagine my excitement when I saw that Sullivan has another book coming this summer.
Many thanks to NetGalley, St Martins Press and the author, Archer Sullivan for an early ARC.
Publication date: August 11, 2026
Many thanks to NetGalley, St Martins Press and the author, Archer Sullivan for an early ARC.
Publication date: August 11, 2026
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I got the arc, I got the arc :D Happy, haaaappppyyy dance :D :D
Edit -> Review:
I absolutely loved The Witch’s Orchard, so I went into this one with high expectations… and thankfully, it did not disappoint. (Do I maybe like book one just a tiny bit more? Perhaps. But we’re keeping that between us...shhhh)
This time, Annie is investigating the death of an (in)famous Appalachian preacher known for snake handling. What initially looks like a tragic but straightforward snake bite quickly turns into something much more complicated. And of course, in a small town where everyone knows everyone, Annie’s questions don’t go unnoticed.
I really enjoyed being back in this setting. The Appalachian atmosphere feels authentic and lived-in and you can tell the author knows these mountains well. The case itself unfolds with plenty of twists and I especially appreciated the final 20–25% of the book. I had theories (obviously), but I still got that little “oh!” surprise moment, which I always love in a thriller.
I also genuinely worried about Annie in this installment. Some events felt personal and dangerous and I was glad to see her push through everything thrown her way.
That said… I did kind of miss the witchy vibes from book one. I know this story needed to be different, but I won’t lie ... I missed that atmosphere just a little.
Overall, a strong sequel and a solid 4★ from me.
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the ARC.
Edit -> Review:
I absolutely loved The Witch’s Orchard, so I went into this one with high expectations… and thankfully, it did not disappoint. (Do I maybe like book one just a tiny bit more? Perhaps. But we’re keeping that between us...shhhh)
This time, Annie is investigating the death of an (in)famous Appalachian preacher known for snake handling. What initially looks like a tragic but straightforward snake bite quickly turns into something much more complicated. And of course, in a small town where everyone knows everyone, Annie’s questions don’t go unnoticed.
I really enjoyed being back in this setting. The Appalachian atmosphere feels authentic and lived-in and you can tell the author knows these mountains well. The case itself unfolds with plenty of twists and I especially appreciated the final 20–25% of the book. I had theories (obviously), but I still got that little “oh!” surprise moment, which I always love in a thriller.
I also genuinely worried about Annie in this installment. Some events felt personal and dangerous and I was glad to see her push through everything thrown her way.
That said… I did kind of miss the witchy vibes from book one. I know this story needed to be different, but I won’t lie ... I missed that atmosphere just a little.
Overall, a strong sequel and a solid 4★ from me.
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the ARC.
April 27, 2026
Thank you to Archer Sullivan, Minotaur Books and St. Martins Publishing for the Advanced Reader Copy of Brimstone Hollow!
I was incredibly impressed by Archer Sullivan’s - The Witch’s Orchard and was excited to read this sequel to Annie Gore’s next adventure.
The setting, characters, and plot was something I never expected to read! I also loved how fleshed out each character was and enjoyed their backstories. Each twist was not predictable and I truly had no idea what to expect. I also feel this story is more polished, and thrilling.
I highly recommend this series but also by itself because we learn so much more about Annie Gore’s past.
I was incredibly impressed by Archer Sullivan’s - The Witch’s Orchard and was excited to read this sequel to Annie Gore’s next adventure.
The setting, characters, and plot was something I never expected to read! I also loved how fleshed out each character was and enjoyed their backstories. Each twist was not predictable and I truly had no idea what to expect. I also feel this story is more polished, and thrilling.
I highly recommend this series but also by itself because we learn so much more about Annie Gore’s past.
May 3, 2026
Thank you first and foremost to the author, St. Martins Press, and NetGalley for the advanced reader copy.
I enjoyed the beginning of the book’s pacing. It was an interesting book idea, but as the book went on things got a little convoluted. I read someone else’s review saying something like it was too many twists or lead up to who did what and why that they didn’t care anymore. I wouldn’t say I didn’t care, but that easy pacing I enjoyed in the beginning fell off a bit.
With that said, life is convoluted, and often these things aren’t really clean cut as a simple twist at the end, so it felt fathomable, but yeah I stayed between 50-70% done with the book for quite a bit.
I also kind of wonder about Katie and Annie’s dreams. They both dream of Ezra calling out for help. I won’t spoil all things, but there wasn’t any mention after everything went down as to why they had these dreams. I did notice that the verbiage of the dream hand changed up for Katie when all was finished which I thought was interesting.
I enjoyed a bit more Leo and Thelma. I’m hopeful we see even more of them in book three.
I felt like this book wasn’t as orderly as the first, but still an enjoyable read. I’m rating it 3.5 stars.
I enjoyed the beginning of the book’s pacing. It was an interesting book idea, but as the book went on things got a little convoluted. I read someone else’s review saying something like it was too many twists or lead up to who did what and why that they didn’t care anymore. I wouldn’t say I didn’t care, but that easy pacing I enjoyed in the beginning fell off a bit.
With that said, life is convoluted, and often these things aren’t really clean cut as a simple twist at the end, so it felt fathomable, but yeah I stayed between 50-70% done with the book for quite a bit.
I also kind of wonder about Katie and Annie’s dreams. They both dream of Ezra calling out for help. I won’t spoil all things, but there wasn’t any mention after everything went down as to why they had these dreams. I did notice that the verbiage of the dream hand changed up for Katie when all was finished which I thought was interesting.
I enjoyed a bit more Leo and Thelma. I’m hopeful we see even more of them in book three.
I felt like this book wasn’t as orderly as the first, but still an enjoyable read. I’m rating it 3.5 stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 14, 2026
Last year I enjoyed the introduction of PI Annie Gore in The Witch's Orchard for her badassery and tenacious investigation style, and for the general slow-burn, atmospheric mystery aspects of the book. The Kentucky/Appalachian setting in particular, along with how it brought in (dark) local lore made it stand out as unique, so I was pleased to get an advanced copy of the next book in the series and picked it up when I was hankering for a procedural.
This installment furthered Annie's interesting/somewhat mysterious backstory with childhood flashbacks brought on by the father/daughter relationship (or lack thereof) in her client and her client's estranged snake-handling minister father whose death seems a bit suspicious - despite the snake handling of it all - and overall the book again was very evocative of the small Appalachian town atmosphere/characters as well as the particular natural world surrounding it, with the sulfur springs and hidden hollers. It was a bit slow moving at times (repetitive in Annie's musings about the case and her theories) and perhaps a bit overly descriptive (blow-by-blow of everything she does in the day, down to what she orders at the diner), but that part also seems to go with the genre at times. Overall though another solid and satisfying (slow-burn) mystery, and again I'd be happy to read more in the series especially if we peel back more of the layers of Annie's past along with it.
3.75 ⭐️
This installment furthered Annie's interesting/somewhat mysterious backstory with childhood flashbacks brought on by the father/daughter relationship (or lack thereof) in her client and her client's estranged snake-handling minister father whose death seems a bit suspicious - despite the snake handling of it all - and overall the book again was very evocative of the small Appalachian town atmosphere/characters as well as the particular natural world surrounding it, with the sulfur springs and hidden hollers. It was a bit slow moving at times (repetitive in Annie's musings about the case and her theories) and perhaps a bit overly descriptive (blow-by-blow of everything she does in the day, down to what she orders at the diner), but that part also seems to go with the genre at times. Overall though another solid and satisfying (slow-burn) mystery, and again I'd be happy to read more in the series especially if we peel back more of the layers of Annie's past along with it.
3.75 ⭐️
May 11, 2026
BRIMSTONE HOLLOW JUST CHEWED ME UP AND SPAT ME OUT (AND I KIND OF LOVED IT) 🌫️🔥
BRIMSTONE HOLLOW — ARCHER SULLIVAN 🐍⛪
Thank you SO SO much for this eARC - shoutout Netgalley, St. Martins Press, and Archer Sullivan.
POV: you thought you were walking into a cute little small-town murder mystery and instead got dropped straight into Appalachian religious horror with rattlesnakes, cursed dreams, buried secrets, and a dead preacher whose burial timeline is giving absolutely not normal behavior 🐍⛪
This book did NOT arrive politely. It kicked the door in, tracked mud across the floor, whispered something unsettling in your ear, and then refused to explain itself. And honestly? I respected the chaos.
We are deep in the Appalachian hollers here — the kind of setting that feels like the trees are listening and the air itself is holding its breath. Old churches tucked into the mountains. A town that smiles too slowly. Secrets layered on secrets like it’s a community hobby. 🌲😵💫
And Annie Gore? Oh she’s that investigator. The kind who hears “this case is weird” and immediately says “perfect, let’s go ruin my life.” She’s stubborn, sharp, and has the survival instincts of a raccoon that just found a locked trash can. I kept wanting to yell advice at her like she could hear me. She could not. She would not. She absolutely continued anyway. 😭
Now let’s talk about the creep factor because WOW. The dreams alone were enough to make me side-eye my own subconscious. Add in unsettling supernatural moments that feel like they’re watching YOU back, and suddenly I’m reading this book like it owes me money and I need answers immediately.
And yes. A snake-handling preacher dying by snakebite is EXACTLY the kind of unhinged plot detail that made me sit up and go: “be serious right now.” 🐍👀 (It was not serious. It only got worse. In the best way.)
The whole story feels like something rotting quietly under the floorboards while everyone insists everything is fine. It’s not fine. Nothing is fine. I was thriving.
This is a solid 4⭐ for me, mostly because I finished it feral and immediately wanted more Annie Gore chaos like a gremlin craving season 2.
If you like: 🐍 Southern gothic nightmares 🌲 Appalachian horror vibes 🔦 private investigator messiness 👻 supernatural creepiness that lingers ⛪ religious horror energy 🖤 towns full of secrets and bad decisions
…this is absolutely your next problem.
And honestly? I’m still thinking about it. Which feels rude.
📅 Publication date: August 11
BRIMSTONE HOLLOW — ARCHER SULLIVAN 🐍⛪
Thank you SO SO much for this eARC - shoutout Netgalley, St. Martins Press, and Archer Sullivan.
POV: you thought you were walking into a cute little small-town murder mystery and instead got dropped straight into Appalachian religious horror with rattlesnakes, cursed dreams, buried secrets, and a dead preacher whose burial timeline is giving absolutely not normal behavior 🐍⛪
This book did NOT arrive politely. It kicked the door in, tracked mud across the floor, whispered something unsettling in your ear, and then refused to explain itself. And honestly? I respected the chaos.
We are deep in the Appalachian hollers here — the kind of setting that feels like the trees are listening and the air itself is holding its breath. Old churches tucked into the mountains. A town that smiles too slowly. Secrets layered on secrets like it’s a community hobby. 🌲😵💫
And Annie Gore? Oh she’s that investigator. The kind who hears “this case is weird” and immediately says “perfect, let’s go ruin my life.” She’s stubborn, sharp, and has the survival instincts of a raccoon that just found a locked trash can. I kept wanting to yell advice at her like she could hear me. She could not. She would not. She absolutely continued anyway. 😭
Now let’s talk about the creep factor because WOW. The dreams alone were enough to make me side-eye my own subconscious. Add in unsettling supernatural moments that feel like they’re watching YOU back, and suddenly I’m reading this book like it owes me money and I need answers immediately.
And yes. A snake-handling preacher dying by snakebite is EXACTLY the kind of unhinged plot detail that made me sit up and go: “be serious right now.” 🐍👀 (It was not serious. It only got worse. In the best way.)
The whole story feels like something rotting quietly under the floorboards while everyone insists everything is fine. It’s not fine. Nothing is fine. I was thriving.
This is a solid 4⭐ for me, mostly because I finished it feral and immediately wanted more Annie Gore chaos like a gremlin craving season 2.
If you like: 🐍 Southern gothic nightmares 🌲 Appalachian horror vibes 🔦 private investigator messiness 👻 supernatural creepiness that lingers ⛪ religious horror energy 🖤 towns full of secrets and bad decisions
…this is absolutely your next problem.
And honestly? I’m still thinking about it. Which feels rude.
📅 Publication date: August 11
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
⛪️🐍
I don't have adequate thoughts.
I just know I'm a happy mess getting, reading, and finishing this amazing book. So, here's my chaotic attempt to describe what I feel.
I'm so happy to see my amazing Annie again! I didn't think there would be more than one book about her and here we are! YAAAY!!! By the way, if you haven't read The Witch's Orchard, it's totally fine for the plot, both books exist perfectly as standalones. But that one is as good, don't skip it completely!
I love how Annie Gore books play with supernatural while never actually crossing the line and involving anything such. How they are atmospheric, cleverly plotted, and filled with people you enjoy reading about on some other level.
The twists were predictable sometimes, but when they weren't all the other time...! I'm stunned, in awe, and give me more. I don't want, I need more stories about Annie. I need more gorgeous crumbs of Leo. Those 5 or what minutes each time made me fall in love when I was reading the first book and I keep loving him still.
Oh, and when you think we got it all and that's the end, nope, no, there is more still, thanks so much for that. And don't worry, it's structured perfectly.
Soo, when it's Archer Sullivan's books, I live through the stories being in love with the characters (and always some side ones too), in love with the plot, in love with the writing style. Both books we have so far are similar in their gorgeousness and the good kind of fake fantasy-element genre, but so different in their twists, character connections, backstories they reveal about the main character, and so much more.
Amazing! Amazing! Amazing! Go read it.
- - -
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with this free eARC in exchange for my honest review!
I don't have adequate thoughts.
I just know I'm a happy mess getting, reading, and finishing this amazing book. So, here's my chaotic attempt to describe what I feel.
I'm so happy to see my amazing Annie again! I didn't think there would be more than one book about her and here we are! YAAAY!!! By the way, if you haven't read The Witch's Orchard, it's totally fine for the plot, both books exist perfectly as standalones. But that one is as good, don't skip it completely!
I love how Annie Gore books play with supernatural while never actually crossing the line and involving anything such. How they are atmospheric, cleverly plotted, and filled with people you enjoy reading about on some other level.
The twists were predictable sometimes, but when they weren't all the other time...! I'm stunned, in awe, and give me more. I don't want, I need more stories about Annie. I need more gorgeous crumbs of Leo. Those 5 or what minutes each time made me fall in love when I was reading the first book and I keep loving him still.
Oh, and when you think we got it all and that's the end, nope, no, there is more still, thanks so much for that. And don't worry, it's structured perfectly.
Soo, when it's Archer Sullivan's books, I live through the stories being in love with the characters (and always some side ones too), in love with the plot, in love with the writing style. Both books we have so far are similar in their gorgeousness and the good kind of fake fantasy-element genre, but so different in their twists, character connections, backstories they reveal about the main character, and so much more.
Amazing! Amazing! Amazing! Go read it.
- - -
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with this free eARC in exchange for my honest review!
April 13, 2026
First my thanks to St Martins Press, Minotaur Books, and NetGalley for an ARC copy of this novel 🫶
Archer Sullivan has done it once again. I was lucky enough to get an ARC of her first book The Witch’s Orchard last year and loved it, so when I saw she had another book coming out with PI Annie Gore I jumped on the opportunity to get to read it early!
You tell me a book is set in Appalachia and I’m gonna grab that sucker right up! And this book centered on a topic that is quintessentially Appalachian— snake churches.
As someone who grew up going to a church that was, in my opinion, only a step or two above snake churches, I was intrigued.
Sullivan does an amazing job at weaving mystery and thrills throughout the story. She describes many Appalachian stereotypes with a solemn but slightly humorous edge that only someone who has lived in the region, can pull off.
You’ll be taken on a rollercoaster of thoughts and emotions from start to finish with this book. Just when you think you’ve pinned the culprit— bam! Something happens and you’ve got to rethink everything. No one is as they seem and PI Annie Gore is going to get to the bottom of it.
Another fantastic read from Archer Sullivan! Get your hands on it asap!
Archer Sullivan has done it once again. I was lucky enough to get an ARC of her first book The Witch’s Orchard last year and loved it, so when I saw she had another book coming out with PI Annie Gore I jumped on the opportunity to get to read it early!
You tell me a book is set in Appalachia and I’m gonna grab that sucker right up! And this book centered on a topic that is quintessentially Appalachian— snake churches.
As someone who grew up going to a church that was, in my opinion, only a step or two above snake churches, I was intrigued.
Sullivan does an amazing job at weaving mystery and thrills throughout the story. She describes many Appalachian stereotypes with a solemn but slightly humorous edge that only someone who has lived in the region, can pull off.
You’ll be taken on a rollercoaster of thoughts and emotions from start to finish with this book. Just when you think you’ve pinned the culprit— bam! Something happens and you’ve got to rethink everything. No one is as they seem and PI Annie Gore is going to get to the bottom of it.
Another fantastic read from Archer Sullivan! Get your hands on it asap!
March 14, 2026
Set deep in the Appalachian mountains once again, this follow-up continues to pull readers back into the eerie, secret-filled small towns that Sullivan writes so well. While the first book leaned heavily on the haunting atmosphere of the woods, Brimstone Hollow shifts the focus more toward the town itself, centering around the church, the Cherry Dairy, and the people who make up this tight-knit community.
What really stood out to me were all of the red herrings scattered throughout the story. Just when you think you have a handle on what’s happening, another piece of information or another character connection pulls you in a different direction. The small-town dynamics and the way everyone seems tied to one another make the mystery even more engaging.
I also loved getting to know more of the town’s characters and watching everything slowly unravel. The investigation builds in a way that keeps you questioning every detail and every person involved.
While this one felt a little less atmospheric than The Witch’s Orchard, a lot of what made the first book so strong still stands here. The twists, the pacing, and the satisfying way the mystery comes together all deliver again. Another five-star read for me, and I’m excited to see where Annie Gore’s story goes next.
What really stood out to me were all of the red herrings scattered throughout the story. Just when you think you have a handle on what’s happening, another piece of information or another character connection pulls you in a different direction. The small-town dynamics and the way everyone seems tied to one another make the mystery even more engaging.
I also loved getting to know more of the town’s characters and watching everything slowly unravel. The investigation builds in a way that keeps you questioning every detail and every person involved.
While this one felt a little less atmospheric than The Witch’s Orchard, a lot of what made the first book so strong still stands here. The twists, the pacing, and the satisfying way the mystery comes together all deliver again. Another five-star read for me, and I’m excited to see where Annie Gore’s story goes next.
Want to Read
March 7, 2026book 1 was so so good. Excited to see it's a series - looking forward to this book 2
(book 1: The Witch's Orchard)
(book 1: The Witch's Orchard)
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
After reading this second book with Annie Gore in it, I am hoping there are more books coming! Can I just say this book was excellent! Annie is hired to find out how Katie's father really died. Was it a snake bite? or is something else sinister going on in this small town? Annie uncovers so much more, and because of this, you just have to turn the pages so fast to find out! Loved this book. I am looking forward to reading more books by Archer Sullivan. Excellent!
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
Many Thanks to Archer Sullivan and Minotaur Books for my ARC of Brimstone Hollow. I highly recommend that if you enjoy mysteries, give this one a try when it is published in August 2026.
Short synopsis:
Annie travels to a small town in Appalachian Kentucky to investigate the sudden death of a snake handling preacher. Hired by his estranged daughter who is both shocked and confused by his sudden passing, Annie's job is simply to find out what happened and get an idea of who Ezra (the preacher who had been bitten by one of his fanged charges...allegedly) was. Many plot twists later, you learn what is really going on in this place.
Review:
Characters are well developed, multi-faceted and have flaws. They also are not stereotypes, in general. They are all unique and have their own voice, concerns and personal investments in the town and story. Character arcs are appropriate for the most part. This is part of a series, so the arc for the MC is less developed, but appropriate.
Atmosphere and setting are on point. The dynamics of the small town and everyone knowing everyone else's business is stellar and is almost a character in its own right. You are transported from a stifling inner city office apartment to a rural Kentucky town with a "Hell Hole" that makes the entire area smell like Sulphur to a little country church with some talking in tongues.
Writing style is effective and serves the story well. Written in first person POV, you are "let in" on the interior thoughts of the MC. That works very well in the mystery solving aspects. It also allowed short flashbacks to the past through the MC POV. It is medium paced, you don't get bogged down in extraneous information, but you also are not jumping from one issue to the next without explanation.
Pacing also played especially well in the plotting, which was very well woven throughout the story. There are a lot of twists and turns before you get where you are going, but it was well bread crumbed. I didn't know all the secrets in the first 5 minutes, so that is a plus.
I was extremely interested and intrigued as to how the story would end; kept me turning the page to the very end.
I did enjoy this novel. I was invested in the story and the mystery from the beginning. I am going to read the first book. And I can highly recommend for mystery lovers.
Trigger Warnings: (I did not find any of these elements out of the ordinary nor extreme)
It is not dark, well no more than a normal murder would be. No spice, no romance, minimum foul language. Descriptions of murder/death/body is not explicit. There are some references to drug use, smoking, alcohol use, abuse, SA, minor mental health mentions, discussions of non-mainstream religious elements, murder, physical harm...I think that's all I saw that could possibly be a trigger. That being said, I'm not the trigger police, I'm simply trying to offer an idea of what themes are used/references.
So, all of that to say I would recommend this book.
#BrimstoneHollow
Short synopsis:
Annie travels to a small town in Appalachian Kentucky to investigate the sudden death of a snake handling preacher. Hired by his estranged daughter who is both shocked and confused by his sudden passing, Annie's job is simply to find out what happened and get an idea of who Ezra (the preacher who had been bitten by one of his fanged charges...allegedly) was. Many plot twists later, you learn what is really going on in this place.
Review:
Characters are well developed, multi-faceted and have flaws. They also are not stereotypes, in general. They are all unique and have their own voice, concerns and personal investments in the town and story. Character arcs are appropriate for the most part. This is part of a series, so the arc for the MC is less developed, but appropriate.
Atmosphere and setting are on point. The dynamics of the small town and everyone knowing everyone else's business is stellar and is almost a character in its own right. You are transported from a stifling inner city office apartment to a rural Kentucky town with a "Hell Hole" that makes the entire area smell like Sulphur to a little country church with some talking in tongues.
Writing style is effective and serves the story well. Written in first person POV, you are "let in" on the interior thoughts of the MC. That works very well in the mystery solving aspects. It also allowed short flashbacks to the past through the MC POV. It is medium paced, you don't get bogged down in extraneous information, but you also are not jumping from one issue to the next without explanation.
Pacing also played especially well in the plotting, which was very well woven throughout the story. There are a lot of twists and turns before you get where you are going, but it was well bread crumbed. I didn't know all the secrets in the first 5 minutes, so that is a plus.
I was extremely interested and intrigued as to how the story would end; kept me turning the page to the very end.
I did enjoy this novel. I was invested in the story and the mystery from the beginning. I am going to read the first book. And I can highly recommend for mystery lovers.
Trigger Warnings: (I did not find any of these elements out of the ordinary nor extreme)
It is not dark, well no more than a normal murder would be. No spice, no romance, minimum foul language. Descriptions of murder/death/body is not explicit. There are some references to drug use, smoking, alcohol use, abuse, SA, minor mental health mentions, discussions of non-mainstream religious elements, murder, physical harm...I think that's all I saw that could possibly be a trigger. That being said, I'm not the trigger police, I'm simply trying to offer an idea of what themes are used/references.
So, all of that to say I would recommend this book.
#BrimstoneHollow
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
BOOK REPORT
Received a complimentary copy of Brimstone Hollow, by Archer Sullivan, from St. Martin's Press | Minotaur Books/NetGalley, for which I am appreciative, in exchange for a fair and honest review. Scroll past the BOOK REPORT section for a cut-and-paste of the DESCRIPTION of it from them if you want to read my thoughts on the book in the context of that summary.
⭐ 3 ⭐
As much as I’m a fan of Archer Sullivan, I gotta say this second Annie Gore book didn’t exactly do it for me.
Very convoluted-y, too much on the magical realism front for me to stomach (and I do love me some woo-woo stuff, so it pains me to say that), and, again too much with the car.
So why’d I give it 3 stars? Because I’m willing to put ^all that^ down to sophomore slump, and because I’m still interested in continuing on with the series.
DESCRIPTION
Following her powerful debut in The Witch’s Orchard, private investigator Annie Gore returns in Brimstone Hollow, bringing readers back to the mountains that author Archer Sullivan, a ninth-generation Appalachian, knows so well.
There isn’t much that happens in the Appalachian Mountains that Private Investigator Annie Gore hasn’t seen. Before she was an Air Force Special Investigator, she was born and raised in those rolling hills, and lately Annie's cases have called her away from her Louisville office and closer to the small towns of her youth than she ever anticipated. But when her newest client asks if she’s ever been to a snake-handling church, Annie knows she’s about to enter unknown territory.
Katie May has been estranged from her father—one of Appalachia’s last infamous snake handling preachers—for twenty years. But when Katie finds out he’s been fatally bitten, and a funeral was held within twenty-four hours, she questions whether someone deliberately rushed the process. Despite Annie’s doubts, she takes the case. After all, when she looks at Katie, she sees a version of herself: a girl who needs to understand her father in order to understand herself.
As she navigates the hidden hollers and dangerous secrets of this insular Eastern Kentucky town, Annie works fast, hoping to find the truth in record time for her client—and before too many memories from her own childhood surface. But it soon becomes apparent that someone wants Annie’s investigation to stop—by any means necessary.
Received a complimentary copy of Brimstone Hollow, by Archer Sullivan, from St. Martin's Press | Minotaur Books/NetGalley, for which I am appreciative, in exchange for a fair and honest review. Scroll past the BOOK REPORT section for a cut-and-paste of the DESCRIPTION of it from them if you want to read my thoughts on the book in the context of that summary.
⭐ 3 ⭐
As much as I’m a fan of Archer Sullivan, I gotta say this second Annie Gore book didn’t exactly do it for me.
Very convoluted-y, too much on the magical realism front for me to stomach (and I do love me some woo-woo stuff, so it pains me to say that), and, again too much with the car.
So why’d I give it 3 stars? Because I’m willing to put ^all that^ down to sophomore slump, and because I’m still interested in continuing on with the series.
DESCRIPTION
Following her powerful debut in The Witch’s Orchard, private investigator Annie Gore returns in Brimstone Hollow, bringing readers back to the mountains that author Archer Sullivan, a ninth-generation Appalachian, knows so well.
There isn’t much that happens in the Appalachian Mountains that Private Investigator Annie Gore hasn’t seen. Before she was an Air Force Special Investigator, she was born and raised in those rolling hills, and lately Annie's cases have called her away from her Louisville office and closer to the small towns of her youth than she ever anticipated. But when her newest client asks if she’s ever been to a snake-handling church, Annie knows she’s about to enter unknown territory.
Katie May has been estranged from her father—one of Appalachia’s last infamous snake handling preachers—for twenty years. But when Katie finds out he’s been fatally bitten, and a funeral was held within twenty-four hours, she questions whether someone deliberately rushed the process. Despite Annie’s doubts, she takes the case. After all, when she looks at Katie, she sees a version of herself: a girl who needs to understand her father in order to understand herself.
As she navigates the hidden hollers and dangerous secrets of this insular Eastern Kentucky town, Annie works fast, hoping to find the truth in record time for her client—and before too many memories from her own childhood surface. But it soon becomes apparent that someone wants Annie’s investigation to stop—by any means necessary.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Gripping, dark, chilling, atmospheric, and riveting, Archer Sullivan delivered another thrilling read with Brimstone Hollow. Annie Gore, a private investigator, is back and investigating another case in the Appalachian Mountains. This time her case takes her to Brimstone Hollow to investigate the death of Ezra King, a snake handling preacher.
Annie agrees to take the case when the dead snake handler's daughter asks her to investigate. Annie soon rattles the nerves of many in town while having her childhood memories bubble to the surface. This book was a great hard to put down book in the Annie Gore series! I enjoyed the first book in the series, The Witch's Orchard, and was excited to get my hands and eyes on Brimstone Hollow! Archer Sullivan did not let me down! She delivered and I enjoyed every single page of this book.
This book was full of secrets, tension, dread, danger, suspense, and suspicion. I was on the edge of my seat by the end of this book and can’t wait to read what comes next for Annie Gore! If you have not read the first book in this series, Brimstone Hollow will work nicely as a stand-alone novel for you. But if you find yourself looking for a good book to read, check out the first book in this series.
*A witches words buddy read with Dorie - Cats&Books :) and Mary Beth. Please read their reviews as well to get their thoughts on Brimstone Hollow
Thank you to Minotaur Books and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Annie agrees to take the case when the dead snake handler's daughter asks her to investigate. Annie soon rattles the nerves of many in town while having her childhood memories bubble to the surface. This book was a great hard to put down book in the Annie Gore series! I enjoyed the first book in the series, The Witch's Orchard, and was excited to get my hands and eyes on Brimstone Hollow! Archer Sullivan did not let me down! She delivered and I enjoyed every single page of this book.
This book was full of secrets, tension, dread, danger, suspense, and suspicion. I was on the edge of my seat by the end of this book and can’t wait to read what comes next for Annie Gore! If you have not read the first book in this series, Brimstone Hollow will work nicely as a stand-alone novel for you. But if you find yourself looking for a good book to read, check out the first book in this series.
*A witches words buddy read with Dorie - Cats&Books :) and Mary Beth. Please read their reviews as well to get their thoughts on Brimstone Hollow
Thank you to Minotaur Books and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley and to St. Martin's Press for the ARC of Brimstone Hollow by Archer Sullivan.
I just read The Witch's Orchard last week, and was excited for another adventure with Annie Gore, PI.
In this book, Annie takes on the case of checking whether the recent death of a snake-handling preacher is as cut-and-dry as the coroner claims, only to find more bodies pile up with each question she asks.
In the overarching view of the series thus far, The Witch's Orchard was about Annie and her mother and her perception of mothers, and Brimstone Hollow is about her father, and father figures. The view of Appalachia is a bit different in that The Witch's Orchard was a bit more gothic in how it dealt with the legend and the missing girls, while Brimstone Hollow feels a bit more of a police procedural with religious fanaticism and the possibility of a supernatural aspect with Annie and other characters having visions of the deceased preacher. I think both have been really strong books, but while The Witch's Orchard gave me really strong Gillian Flynn vibes, Brimstone Hollow felt more like a season of FX's Justified (so maybe a bit more Elmore Leonard).
It took me a bit to put all the pieces together on this one as it developed, whereas The Witch's Orchard was a bit more of a gut punch at the end -- Brimstone Hollow slowly deals out the drama and the danger, solving bits and leaving more open to close in later chapters as the mystery deepens and more deaths occur.
Annie continues to go all out on her cases while also reflecting on her own past and relationships, and her questions continue to set people off who otherwise would have remained quiet. Her commitment to solving crimes and risking her own personal safety leads to some exciting scenes, and the Appalachian setting once again feels true to this region and its culture and is a huge part of what makes this series so interesting.
What I really want next in the third book is to have Leo appear in-person with Annie on a case, as I think it will dive us into a deeper view of who she is as a person in her comfort zone, but, regardless of what Sullivan actually decides for the third book's plot, I'll be reading it.
I just read The Witch's Orchard last week, and was excited for another adventure with Annie Gore, PI.
In this book, Annie takes on the case of checking whether the recent death of a snake-handling preacher is as cut-and-dry as the coroner claims, only to find more bodies pile up with each question she asks.
In the overarching view of the series thus far, The Witch's Orchard was about Annie and her mother and her perception of mothers, and Brimstone Hollow is about her father, and father figures. The view of Appalachia is a bit different in that The Witch's Orchard was a bit more gothic in how it dealt with the legend and the missing girls, while Brimstone Hollow feels a bit more of a police procedural with religious fanaticism and the possibility of a supernatural aspect with Annie and other characters having visions of the deceased preacher. I think both have been really strong books, but while The Witch's Orchard gave me really strong Gillian Flynn vibes, Brimstone Hollow felt more like a season of FX's Justified (so maybe a bit more Elmore Leonard).
It took me a bit to put all the pieces together on this one as it developed, whereas The Witch's Orchard was a bit more of a gut punch at the end -- Brimstone Hollow slowly deals out the drama and the danger, solving bits and leaving more open to close in later chapters as the mystery deepens and more deaths occur.
Annie continues to go all out on her cases while also reflecting on her own past and relationships, and her questions continue to set people off who otherwise would have remained quiet. Her commitment to solving crimes and risking her own personal safety leads to some exciting scenes, and the Appalachian setting once again feels true to this region and its culture and is a huge part of what makes this series so interesting.
What I really want next in the third book is to have Leo appear in-person with Annie on a case, as I think it will dive us into a deeper view of who she is as a person in her comfort zone, but, regardless of what Sullivan actually decides for the third book's plot, I'll be reading it.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
An exciting thriller about a snake handling preacher who died of an apparent snake bite. A small town appalachia setting with many layers; homophobia in the church and the domino effect of that culture, the generational drug problem, the way that everyone in town has a silver F150. Except for the people who have a black F150.
Annie Gore is back as a private investigator- she works alongside the police but is a detective for hire and has a classic Datsun that she really babies named "honey." She is hired by a woman whose biological father died and was buried really quickly of a snake bite with no autopsy. She had a dream or vision about him and she doesn't think it is a coincidence, so she sends Annie to Brimstone Hollow to see if there is anything fishy. There is.
What I really enjoyed about this story was that there were aspects of the small town that intersected as you would expect, but the characters always had more than they seemed. It was not all pure stereotypes about people in Kentucky, they were complex characters in the area, some by choice and others by circumstance. I loved the fast pacing and how the setting was complicated and nuanced. The characters were engaging and the ending... WOW! I was hooked. I was a fan of the first and now glad I read this as well!
Thanks to NetGalley and Minotaur books for the ARC. Book to be published August 11, 2026
Annie Gore is back as a private investigator- she works alongside the police but is a detective for hire and has a classic Datsun that she really babies named "honey." She is hired by a woman whose biological father died and was buried really quickly of a snake bite with no autopsy. She had a dream or vision about him and she doesn't think it is a coincidence, so she sends Annie to Brimstone Hollow to see if there is anything fishy. There is.
What I really enjoyed about this story was that there were aspects of the small town that intersected as you would expect, but the characters always had more than they seemed. It was not all pure stereotypes about people in Kentucky, they were complex characters in the area, some by choice and others by circumstance. I loved the fast pacing and how the setting was complicated and nuanced. The characters were engaging and the ending... WOW! I was hooked. I was a fan of the first and now glad I read this as well!
Thanks to NetGalley and Minotaur books for the ARC. Book to be published August 11, 2026
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you Minotaur Books and Archer Sullivan for my gifted copy!
As if I didn’t love Annie Gore enough in The Witch’s Orchard, Archer Sullivan gifted us a second installment, Brimstone Hollow, and another chance to hang out with Annie, helping me to fall in love with her character even more. There is something about her. So flawed and cynical; stingy with her trust, determined. She is the opposite of an unreliable narrator, and I adore her for it.
Reading Brimstone Hollow was like digging through moss, dirt caked under my fingernails. It felt like breaking through each new layer of earth, only to find another, and it was addictive. Cloyingly atmospheric, I found myself wanting to return again and again to the sulfur stench of Mount Zion, a small town in Appalachia. And boy am I a sucker for Appalachia. A place I’ve never been, it still haunts my dreams and nightmares, and holds a special place in my heart. It’s easy to see that Sullivan feels the same way, being a ninth generation Appalachian, because each of these two Annie Gore novels feature Appalachia as a character in and of itself - as it deserves to be. There is so much richness in that part of the country, things we still don’t know. The mystery is the most alluring part, that its history is older than most of the world, and that there are parts left untouched and untainted. It gives me goosebumps.
All that gushing is to say: I loved this installment. I loved the mystery, the snake wielding preacher all dressed in black, the cast of characters from a small town that welcomed an outsider with stories and good food. Each time I thought I had it figured out, I was wrong, and it was fun. I was surprised until the very end, and I cannot wait for another book (please please please) to see what Annie Gore gets up to next.
As if I didn’t love Annie Gore enough in The Witch’s Orchard, Archer Sullivan gifted us a second installment, Brimstone Hollow, and another chance to hang out with Annie, helping me to fall in love with her character even more. There is something about her. So flawed and cynical; stingy with her trust, determined. She is the opposite of an unreliable narrator, and I adore her for it.
Reading Brimstone Hollow was like digging through moss, dirt caked under my fingernails. It felt like breaking through each new layer of earth, only to find another, and it was addictive. Cloyingly atmospheric, I found myself wanting to return again and again to the sulfur stench of Mount Zion, a small town in Appalachia. And boy am I a sucker for Appalachia. A place I’ve never been, it still haunts my dreams and nightmares, and holds a special place in my heart. It’s easy to see that Sullivan feels the same way, being a ninth generation Appalachian, because each of these two Annie Gore novels feature Appalachia as a character in and of itself - as it deserves to be. There is so much richness in that part of the country, things we still don’t know. The mystery is the most alluring part, that its history is older than most of the world, and that there are parts left untouched and untainted. It gives me goosebumps.
All that gushing is to say: I loved this installment. I loved the mystery, the snake wielding preacher all dressed in black, the cast of characters from a small town that welcomed an outsider with stories and good food. Each time I thought I had it figured out, I was wrong, and it was fun. I was surprised until the very end, and I cannot wait for another book (please please please) to see what Annie Gore gets up to next.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Review of Uncorrected Digital Galley
Private investigator Annie Gore is between cases, working to catch up on the paperwork she’s neglected for the past couple of months. Short on funds, she’s intrigued when Katie May comes in with her baby; she wants Annie to look into death of her father, Ezra King, a man who was a snake-handling preacher in Mount Zion, Kentucky.
Although they’d been estranged for many years, Katie finds it strange that there was no autopsy, the funeral was already in progress when the police called to tell her he’d died from a snakebite. The rush puzzles Katie; she feels there’s something more to learn.
Can Annie find some answers for her? And did Ezra King really die from a snake bite?
=========
Although this book is second in the author’s Annie Gore series, there is sufficient backstory for the book to work as a standalone. Well-defined characters and a strong, atmospheric sense of place pull readers into the telling of the tale from the outset; unpredictable revelations keep those pages turning.
In this absorbing tale, the Appalachian Mountains become a character deeply involved with the people who live there. The dynamics of a small town and its people . . . a place where everyone knows everyone and everyone knows everything about everyone else . . . offers the reader some unexpected surprises and keeps the mystery “fresh. The plot, both intriguing and compelling, twists and turns and keeps readers guessing.
Readers who enjoy small town tales, captivating mysteries, and amazing characters will find much to appreciate in this difficult-to-set-aside book.
Highly recommended.
I received a free copy of this eBook from St. Martin’s Press / Minotaur Books and NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving this review.
#BrimstoneHollow #NetGalley
Private investigator Annie Gore is between cases, working to catch up on the paperwork she’s neglected for the past couple of months. Short on funds, she’s intrigued when Katie May comes in with her baby; she wants Annie to look into death of her father, Ezra King, a man who was a snake-handling preacher in Mount Zion, Kentucky.
Although they’d been estranged for many years, Katie finds it strange that there was no autopsy, the funeral was already in progress when the police called to tell her he’d died from a snakebite. The rush puzzles Katie; she feels there’s something more to learn.
Can Annie find some answers for her? And did Ezra King really die from a snake bite?
=========
Although this book is second in the author’s Annie Gore series, there is sufficient backstory for the book to work as a standalone. Well-defined characters and a strong, atmospheric sense of place pull readers into the telling of the tale from the outset; unpredictable revelations keep those pages turning.
In this absorbing tale, the Appalachian Mountains become a character deeply involved with the people who live there. The dynamics of a small town and its people . . . a place where everyone knows everyone and everyone knows everything about everyone else . . . offers the reader some unexpected surprises and keeps the mystery “fresh. The plot, both intriguing and compelling, twists and turns and keeps readers guessing.
Readers who enjoy small town tales, captivating mysteries, and amazing characters will find much to appreciate in this difficult-to-set-aside book.
Highly recommended.
I received a free copy of this eBook from St. Martin’s Press / Minotaur Books and NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving this review.
#BrimstoneHollow #NetGalley
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is Book #2 in what I am hoping so hard will become a long-running series! The Witch's Orchard was #1 and introduced PI Annie Gore. I went into that one not realizing it would be a series, as I don't usually get into those and I luckily discovered this series gem! Annie Gore is an Appalachian from many generations back. She understands the culture and quirks. As such, she is often hired out of her Louisville based office by people with those same ties. In this case, she is hired to investigate the death of a snake handling preacher who died, by you guessed it, snakebite. This would seem pretty cut and dried, but in Annie's world the obvious is never the case. She is hired by his estranged daughter, Katie who just has a "feeling". The words "snake-handling preacher" alone were enough to hook me, but there is so much more! I love Annie's world. She meets so many cool characters and her thought process is so much fun. Annie is a food lover, like me and the food descriptions always have my interest! She does not miss many meals. Sleep, yes, but meals, no. Definitely not! Annie is also ex-military Special Forces and her mysterious "friend" Leo is from that time. They still keep in "touch" and that relationship alone is fascinating. In each book, we learn a bit more about Annie. I think the closest description for this series so far to me would be the Karin Slaughter Grant County series. If you like that or just enjoy a truly suspenseful thriller with characters that you will become totally absorbed into, then this is for you!! Please, Archer Sullivan, give us a Book #3. And #4. And #5. Well, you get the drift.
Thank you to Archer Sullivan, #NetGalley and St. Martin's Press | Minotaur Books for this much appreciated ARC. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to Archer Sullivan, #NetGalley and St. Martin's Press | Minotaur Books for this much appreciated ARC. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
My fingers have been itching to get my hands on this book. I absolutely loved The Witch's Orchard. As soon as I wrapped that one up, I needed Brimestone Hollow in my hand. Annie Gore as a character, brings me so much joy. She is messy, direct, smart, and knows her way in and around any town in Appalachia. Annie stands out. As soon as she drives Honey into town there is no hiding that she is there. Or blending in. She is unapologetic, and if you are one of her clients she will go to the ends of the earth for you. Because your question and what you need her to uncover becomes her problem. I love that about her!
Katie May's father has passed away from a snake bite. Not surprising since he was a snake handling preacher. That is a hard no for me. I see a snake and I run. Let alone a rattler, which is what he loved to play with. Katie has gone to Annie for her PI skills. Something just feels off about his death. Katie feels like there is more to it than a snake bite. As Annie roars into the small Appalachian town searching for answers. She walks into a nest of vipers. Everyone is a suspect and everyone has their secrets. Who is hiding something and who is not? As Annie tries to untangle this incredible knot the story goes deeper and becomes even more twisted. Right until the very end.
I roared through this book, riding shotgun in the bronco. The wind flying through my hair. The endless pile of bodies stacking up and more secrets this town holds are finally being shown the light. The entire cast of characters are fantastic. The setting in small town Appalachia always makes me happy. It is atmospheric, thrilling, and at times can be a bit stinky. If you have not read this series do yourself a favor and do so. Thank you to Archer Sullivan and Minotaur Books for my gifted copy. I cannot wait to see what is in store for Annie next!
Katie May's father has passed away from a snake bite. Not surprising since he was a snake handling preacher. That is a hard no for me. I see a snake and I run. Let alone a rattler, which is what he loved to play with. Katie has gone to Annie for her PI skills. Something just feels off about his death. Katie feels like there is more to it than a snake bite. As Annie roars into the small Appalachian town searching for answers. She walks into a nest of vipers. Everyone is a suspect and everyone has their secrets. Who is hiding something and who is not? As Annie tries to untangle this incredible knot the story goes deeper and becomes even more twisted. Right until the very end.
I roared through this book, riding shotgun in the bronco. The wind flying through my hair. The endless pile of bodies stacking up and more secrets this town holds are finally being shown the light. The entire cast of characters are fantastic. The setting in small town Appalachia always makes me happy. It is atmospheric, thrilling, and at times can be a bit stinky. If you have not read this series do yourself a favor and do so. Thank you to Archer Sullivan and Minotaur Books for my gifted copy. I cannot wait to see what is in store for Annie next!
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
This is the second in the Annie Gore series by Archer Sullivan. I loved The Witch Orchard and this one is just as good!!
Just as Annie is settling into her Louisville office, a young woman, Katie May, knocks on her door. She has read a lot about Annie and feels she is the only one who could navigate the small towns in Appalachia as she is so familiar with the area.
Her father is a snake handling preacher and she has just been notified that he has died from a snake bite. In fact he is already buried when Katie is notified. Because of the rush to bury Ezra, she suspects that all is not right and Annie decides to take the case.
We are quickly brought into the Appalachian mountains again, this time in Brimstone Hollow, a town known for its sulfur springs.
Soon after Annie starts questioning people about the case, it becomes quickly apparent that someone wants her to stop her investigation.
I loved this book - the pacing was good and there are so many threads to unravel. The characters are well described and I learned a lot about snake handling (ugh) and how Ezra convinced the townspeople that he was a preacher who could save their souls!
This book is very atmospheric - the mountains, the stinking sulfur springs, and the people who call this small town home.
It’s not necessary to read the first book - this could work as a standalone, but I highly recommend reading them in order to understand the main character, Annie, better.
This was a buddy read with Debra and Mary Beth. Please read their reviews for another look at this novel.
I received an ARC of this novel from the publisher through Edelweiss. It was my pleasure to read and review this terrific novel.
Just as Annie is settling into her Louisville office, a young woman, Katie May, knocks on her door. She has read a lot about Annie and feels she is the only one who could navigate the small towns in Appalachia as she is so familiar with the area.
Her father is a snake handling preacher and she has just been notified that he has died from a snake bite. In fact he is already buried when Katie is notified. Because of the rush to bury Ezra, she suspects that all is not right and Annie decides to take the case.
We are quickly brought into the Appalachian mountains again, this time in Brimstone Hollow, a town known for its sulfur springs.
Soon after Annie starts questioning people about the case, it becomes quickly apparent that someone wants her to stop her investigation.
I loved this book - the pacing was good and there are so many threads to unravel. The characters are well described and I learned a lot about snake handling (ugh) and how Ezra convinced the townspeople that he was a preacher who could save their souls!
This book is very atmospheric - the mountains, the stinking sulfur springs, and the people who call this small town home.
It’s not necessary to read the first book - this could work as a standalone, but I highly recommend reading them in order to understand the main character, Annie, better.
This was a buddy read with Debra and Mary Beth. Please read their reviews for another look at this novel.
I received an ARC of this novel from the publisher through Edelweiss. It was my pleasure to read and review this terrific novel.
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
The second in the PI Annie Gore series (the first to be read by this reader), this moody and atmospheric story is set deep in the Appalachians. Summoned by a daughter to investigate the death of her father, a preacher, whose affinity for rattlesnakes and copperheads has earned him a devout following, Annie must travel to the rural town of Mount Zion, Kentucky, where lore and faith intersect, and belief-systems veer towards the supernatural. Pastor Ezra King, who apparently died of a snake bite, had many secrets, and it will be up to Annie, a thirtyish former Air Force special investigator, to unpack his story and the twisty trail bled into his passing.
Annie, (who possesses the worst fast-food diet this reader has encountered between the pages) will have her work cut out for her, in the form of more than one body, at least a couple of near death experiences, and a townsfolk population who will both befriend and endanger her.
Annie, with her ripped jeans, leather jacket and murky green eyes, is a strong and interesting first person POV narrator. Her story here is an engrossing read (with perhaps just a trifle too complex a final solution). This reader’s favorite elements of this book center on the backstory of Annie herself, and the slowly revealing emotional complications of her relationship with her father. A theme which picks up again in several places throughout her investigation and the relationships between several of the protagonists.
Recommended for readers of character-based, complex mysteries, and in particular those that are slowburning and dense, seething with undercurrents and conflict.
A great big thank you to Goodreads, the author, and the publisher for this Goodreads giveaway ARC. All thoughts presented are my own.
Annie, (who possesses the worst fast-food diet this reader has encountered between the pages) will have her work cut out for her, in the form of more than one body, at least a couple of near death experiences, and a townsfolk population who will both befriend and endanger her.
Annie, with her ripped jeans, leather jacket and murky green eyes, is a strong and interesting first person POV narrator. Her story here is an engrossing read (with perhaps just a trifle too complex a final solution). This reader’s favorite elements of this book center on the backstory of Annie herself, and the slowly revealing emotional complications of her relationship with her father. A theme which picks up again in several places throughout her investigation and the relationships between several of the protagonists.
Recommended for readers of character-based, complex mysteries, and in particular those that are slowburning and dense, seething with undercurrents and conflict.
A great big thank you to Goodreads, the author, and the publisher for this Goodreads giveaway ARC. All thoughts presented are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A snake-handling preacher dies from a snake bite during a church service. Yes. Snake-handling. That alone was enough to hook me.
Brimstone Hollow is a tightly paced thriller set in an insular religious community where faith, fear, and power are deeply intertwined. When doubts arise about the preacher’s death, a private investigator is brought in to uncover the truth. As she begins asking questions, it becomes clear that Brimstone Hollow is built on secrets, and not everyone wants them exposed.
The setting is one of the book’s greatest strengths. The snake-handling element isn’t just atmospheric; it drives the tension. The danger, both spiritual and physical, is always present. I was fully engaged the entire read.
I especially appreciated the PI. She’s a steady, believable professional and a strong female lead without unnecessary drama. Her persistence and intelligence ground the story and make the investigation feel authentic.
Content considerations include religious extremism, live snake handling with venomous snakes, and a suspicious death. The themes may be unsettling for some readers, though nothing felt gratuitous.
Why 4 stars instead of 5? For me, a 5-star thriller keeps me up at night. This one didn’t cost me sleep but it absolutely held my attention and delivered a satisfying, well-constructed mystery.
I would recommend this to readers who enjoy atmospheric thrillers, strong female leads, and small-town stories where everyone has something to hide. I’ll definitely be looking for more from this author.
A special thank you to Minotaur Books for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Brimstone Hollow is a tightly paced thriller set in an insular religious community where faith, fear, and power are deeply intertwined. When doubts arise about the preacher’s death, a private investigator is brought in to uncover the truth. As she begins asking questions, it becomes clear that Brimstone Hollow is built on secrets, and not everyone wants them exposed.
The setting is one of the book’s greatest strengths. The snake-handling element isn’t just atmospheric; it drives the tension. The danger, both spiritual and physical, is always present. I was fully engaged the entire read.
I especially appreciated the PI. She’s a steady, believable professional and a strong female lead without unnecessary drama. Her persistence and intelligence ground the story and make the investigation feel authentic.
Content considerations include religious extremism, live snake handling with venomous snakes, and a suspicious death. The themes may be unsettling for some readers, though nothing felt gratuitous.
Why 4 stars instead of 5? For me, a 5-star thriller keeps me up at night. This one didn’t cost me sleep but it absolutely held my attention and delivered a satisfying, well-constructed mystery.
I would recommend this to readers who enjoy atmospheric thrillers, strong female leads, and small-town stories where everyone has something to hide. I’ll definitely be looking for more from this author.
A special thank you to Minotaur Books for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Annie Gore is a fascinating character. A former special investigator in the Air Force, she now works as a P.I. The novel opens on a holiday weekend. Annie is reluctantly going through her bills when a young woman walks into the office. The woman wants to hire Annie to investigate the death of her estranged father, Ezra King, who was an itinerant preacher in the Appalachian town of Mount Zion. But Ezra’s church isn’t any ordinary church. No, his church is a snake-handling church and the cause of his death was notably a snake bite. Curious, however, is the fact that there was no autopsy performed and the burial took place within 24 hours of the discovery of his body. His daughter, Katie, thinks something is fishy and Annie agrees to take the case.
I really enjoyed the Annie Gore book that came before this one (The Witch's Orchard). Brimstone Hollow, however, didn’t quite do it for me. I found myself uninvolved with the characters, the only exception being Annie herself. In addition, I found the dialogue and townspeople a little too “folksy” for me. Brimstone Hollow has all the elements of a good mystery, especially the snake handling, etc. Perhaps if the focus had been more sharply turned to Ezra, his background and motivations, instead of all the peripheral characters, I might have been sucked into it.
In any case, I found myself skimming, wanting to get to the end. The novel is well-written and, as mentioned above, has an intriguing protagonist. I hope to read more of Annie Gore in the future.
I really enjoyed the Annie Gore book that came before this one (The Witch's Orchard). Brimstone Hollow, however, didn’t quite do it for me. I found myself uninvolved with the characters, the only exception being Annie herself. In addition, I found the dialogue and townspeople a little too “folksy” for me. Brimstone Hollow has all the elements of a good mystery, especially the snake handling, etc. Perhaps if the focus had been more sharply turned to Ezra, his background and motivations, instead of all the peripheral characters, I might have been sucked into it.
In any case, I found myself skimming, wanting to get to the end. The novel is well-written and, as mentioned above, has an intriguing protagonist. I hope to read more of Annie Gore in the future.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you, Netgalley and St. Martin's press, for the advanced readers' copy in exchange for an honest review
Annie Gore is a private investigator with an interesting past and a great deal of determination to help those in need of answers. She is brought to Brimstone Hollow to find out more about the not very mysterious death of her clients long lost father. As she unravels the story of the deceased, she finds more secrets and questions.
What did I enjoy about this story?
I really enjoy Annie's character and her entire personality. She's an honest, smart, and resourceful woman, which I am all about.
You do not need to read the first in the series to fully understand what's happening here. It can absolutely be read as a stand-alone.
The story was interesting and exciting, I was trying to work things out as I was reading, and I was surprised by the twists and which is saying something. This was a well thought out storyline.
What didn't I like?
There were a lot of names to keep track of, and it did become confusing for me for a minute. I did appreciate the multiple recaps that helped keep me up to date, though.
I am having a hard time understanding why she is obsessed with her car. I mean, I understand why, but it doesn't really add anything to the story and I find it to be an annoyance for me to read about (this applies to both this and the first in the serves)
Overall, I did enjoy and would recommend as a lighter mystery read.
Annie Gore is a private investigator with an interesting past and a great deal of determination to help those in need of answers. She is brought to Brimstone Hollow to find out more about the not very mysterious death of her clients long lost father. As she unravels the story of the deceased, she finds more secrets and questions.
What did I enjoy about this story?
I really enjoy Annie's character and her entire personality. She's an honest, smart, and resourceful woman, which I am all about.
You do not need to read the first in the series to fully understand what's happening here. It can absolutely be read as a stand-alone.
The story was interesting and exciting, I was trying to work things out as I was reading, and I was surprised by the twists and which is saying something. This was a well thought out storyline.
What didn't I like?
There were a lot of names to keep track of, and it did become confusing for me for a minute. I did appreciate the multiple recaps that helped keep me up to date, though.
I am having a hard time understanding why she is obsessed with her car. I mean, I understand why, but it doesn't really add anything to the story and I find it to be an annoyance for me to read about (this applies to both this and the first in the serves)
Overall, I did enjoy and would recommend as a lighter mystery read.
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
Private Investigator, Annie Gore, is hired by a young woman, Katie, who has learned that her estranged father has passed, and she wants Annie to look into it; to see if she can fill in the blanks since she lost contact with him. Katie’s father, Ezra King, was a charismatic, intense, powerful, snake handling revival preacher who was revered by his followers. Unfortunately for Ezra it appears one too many snake bites lead to his death. As Annie does her due diligence, talking to many people in town, including the local Sheriff who is somewhat irritated by her, but helpful and a kind, but firm leader. When someone tries to warn Annie against digging any deeper, strange occurrences surround people who knew Ezra, and more than one death. Annie is resolute in not leaving without figuring out what the HAY is going on! 😈 This was a GREAT read!! When I say I couldn’t put it down, I mean it! I read it in one sitting late into the night. The story was so comprehensive and there are many characters, but the author stays right on track and all of the pieces and players are logical and well planned out; riveting and engaging! Great!!
Thank you to the authors, publishers and Goodreads for giving me the opportunity to read and review 😊 Thank you for the Advanced Readers Copy and trusting me with your words! 💕Disclaimer - I received this book as a Goodreads giveaway
Thank you to the authors, publishers and Goodreads for giving me the opportunity to read and review 😊 Thank you for the Advanced Readers Copy and trusting me with your words! 💕Disclaimer - I received this book as a Goodreads giveaway
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is the second book in the series about Annie Gore, PI. Annie is from Appalachia, but has not gone home since she joined the air force to get away. Annie is hired by Katie May who wants her to look into the circumstances of her father's death. Katie has had no contact with her father since she was a small child. Her mother took her and moved away and remarried. Katie was notified that her natural father had died and they already had his funeral and burial, within 24 hours. Something seems off.
Katie's father was a snake handling preacher in a small town in east Kentucky, He was larger than life and much loved, but yes, something was off. Annie's investigation stirs up a hornets nest of activity and more deaths.
Annie Gore is one of those characters you just grow to love. She reveals a bit more about herself in each book and she is very good at her job. This book had twists and turns and mystery after mystery slowly unraveling. I had no idea how this book was going to end, but it was great. I hope to read more books with Annie Gore at the center in the future.
I would like to thank Minotaur Books and NetGalley for graciously allowing me to have an early read.
Katie's father was a snake handling preacher in a small town in east Kentucky, He was larger than life and much loved, but yes, something was off. Annie's investigation stirs up a hornets nest of activity and more deaths.
Annie Gore is one of those characters you just grow to love. She reveals a bit more about herself in each book and she is very good at her job. This book had twists and turns and mystery after mystery slowly unraveling. I had no idea how this book was going to end, but it was great. I hope to read more books with Annie Gore at the center in the future.
I would like to thank Minotaur Books and NetGalley for graciously allowing me to have an early read.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Brimstone Hollow
By Archer Sullivan
If you're looking for a murder mystery/suspense thriller, this is the book for you! The protagonist is a PI named Annie Gore, former Air Force special investigations officer, professional Muay Thai fighter, and product of a terrible childhood.
As the story opens, Annie is hired by Katie May, a young woman looking to find the truth about her father's recent death in a hamlet in Southern Appalachia. Seems Ezra King, her dad, had been a faith healer and snake handler with a large following. But his luck had run out and he had died of snake bite – and been buried with unusual haste. Katie, his estranged daughter, wanted to know why.
What follows is craziness and mayhem. We meet the sheriff and his crew; a motel owner/manager who is a little too interested in Annie's business; an undertaker/coroner who seems to be avoiding her; The King of Kentucky weed; the gay cleric who has been "healed" by Ezra; and a host of other strange characters living in the hamlet. The murders mount up. The dead are resurrected. The red herrings multiply. You may find yourself rooting for the good guys, if you could only figure out who they were!
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for this ARC.
By Archer Sullivan
If you're looking for a murder mystery/suspense thriller, this is the book for you! The protagonist is a PI named Annie Gore, former Air Force special investigations officer, professional Muay Thai fighter, and product of a terrible childhood.
As the story opens, Annie is hired by Katie May, a young woman looking to find the truth about her father's recent death in a hamlet in Southern Appalachia. Seems Ezra King, her dad, had been a faith healer and snake handler with a large following. But his luck had run out and he had died of snake bite – and been buried with unusual haste. Katie, his estranged daughter, wanted to know why.
What follows is craziness and mayhem. We meet the sheriff and his crew; a motel owner/manager who is a little too interested in Annie's business; an undertaker/coroner who seems to be avoiding her; The King of Kentucky weed; the gay cleric who has been "healed" by Ezra; and a host of other strange characters living in the hamlet. The murders mount up. The dead are resurrected. The red herrings multiply. You may find yourself rooting for the good guys, if you could only figure out who they were!
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for this ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Brimstone Hollow is the sophomore novel featuring private investigator Annie Gore, and is a captivating read. This reviewer loved Archer Sullivan's prize-winning first book, The Witch's Orchard, and looked forward to reading Sullivan's second installment in the series. The books are set in Appalachia, Annie's childhood home, and the vivid setting is as much a character as the townsfolk sharing their story.
Brimstone Hollow takes us to Eastern Kentucky, where a snake handling preacher and a deep sulfur mine lead Annie on a dangerous trek that almost ends her life. The mystery is filled with unusual characters, the plotting is tightly woven, and the pacing never lags. Annie Gore is a smart, likeable investigator, who drives a vintage Datsun she named Honey. That lighthearted endearment also endeared her to readers like me. The book is well-written, hard to put down, and highly entertaining. Recommended.
Many thanks to NetGalley and St Martin's Press for providing an advance copy of the book to read and review. This review will post to Bayside Book Reviews.com at https://baysidebookreviews.com and its Instagram page on release day. Follow us! *NetGalley Top Reviewer*
Brimstone Hollow takes us to Eastern Kentucky, where a snake handling preacher and a deep sulfur mine lead Annie on a dangerous trek that almost ends her life. The mystery is filled with unusual characters, the plotting is tightly woven, and the pacing never lags. Annie Gore is a smart, likeable investigator, who drives a vintage Datsun she named Honey. That lighthearted endearment also endeared her to readers like me. The book is well-written, hard to put down, and highly entertaining. Recommended.
Many thanks to NetGalley and St Martin's Press for providing an advance copy of the book to read and review. This review will post to Bayside Book Reviews.com at https://baysidebookreviews.com and its Instagram page on release day. Follow us! *NetGalley Top Reviewer*
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