The Resident Murder

by Jessi Kroft

Modern dating can be such a killer…

True-crime enthusiast, Dr. Kylie Saunders is two years into an arduous medical training program in New York City, which leaves her with little time for romance. Until she meets Dr. Blake Weathers.

A fellow resident with an intense passion for neurosurgery, devilishly good looks and irresistible charm, Blake is completely intoxicating. Yet Kylie can't shake the unsettling feeling that the enigmatic surgeon is hiding something.

After sending Kylie mixed messages following several promising dates, she reluctantly calls things off with Blake and focuses on meeting someone through the Connections app.

But when a friend and colleague is brutally murdered, and Kylie discovers a secret that links Blake to the crime, her reservations about him intensify.

As she delves further into the mystery surrounding the murder, while attempting to turn her love life around, Kylie soon learns that the Manhattan dating scene is far deadlier than she could have imagined.

When the police suspect the killer used Connections to lure the victim, Kylie’s search for answers reveals a terrifying truth: that they’re about to take a swipe at her next…

Genres: Thriller, Mystery Thriller

240 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 15, 2026

About the author

Hi! I'm a new author who writes medical and psychological thrillers. My debut thriller, The Resident Murder is currently for sale here: https://geni.us/ResidentMurder

Reviews

[Paul McDonald · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow—what a strong debut novel from Jessi Kroft.
The story is professionally presented and beautifully written. The first third of the book focuses on character development and establishing the setting, and this is where the author’s skill truly shines. One of the main characters, Blake, is a narcissist, womaniser, and exploiter—yet remarkably, I still found myself feeling sympathy for him. That takes real talent.

My only minor criticism is I found the middle half of the book a bit slow, but it was never going to be a DNF. The book is described as a thriller, but it isn’t until the final third that the story fully adopts the hallmarks of the genre. That said, once it does, I found myself turning pages eagerly, anticipating the reveal of the murderer from among the richly drawn characters introduced earlier.

Overall, an impressive debut that showcases a confident and highly capable new voice.

[April · Rating 4 out of 5]

From the very first page, the prologue hooked me and set the tone for a tense, fast paced read. Jessi Kroft does an excellent job building intrigue early, making it hard to put the book down once the story gets going.

When Kylie becomes entangled in a murder investigation tied to her surroundings, the truth proves far more dangerous than she imagined. As secrets are revealed Kylie must navigate the threats to uncover what’s really happening, to make sure she’s not the next victim.

Kylie is a likable FMC, and I found myself genuinely invested in her outcome. Her reactions felt believable, and her determination kept me rooting for her as the stakes continued to rise. The mysterious “The Boy” chapters were a standout element for me, they added an extra layer of suspense and kept me guessing how everything would connect.

Overall, The Resident Murder is an excellent debut thriller with strong tension, engaging characters, and a compelling mystery. I’m especially excited that this is book one, because it sets up a series I’ll absolutely be continuing. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Weena Bernabel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished this book and I’m still sitting with that eerie, unsettled feeling it left behind—in the best way. This story pulled me in quietly at first, like a whisper down a dim hallway, and then before I realized it, I was completely consumed. The tension doesn’t scream at you—it lingers. It breathes. It watches. And I absolutely loved that. The atmosphere was so damn thick with suspicion and unease, the kind that makes you question every character and every motive.

What I appreciated most about this thriller was how layered the story felt. It wasn’t just about the crime—it was more about the people orbiting it. The secrets. The silence. The things left unsaid. Listen... I wanted to fucking scream... You did such a beautiful job of peeling back those layers slowly, letting the truth unfold in a way that felt earned rather than rushed.

The emotional undertones surprised me too. Beneath the mystery and the darkness, there was this raw current of vulnerability. It made the stakes feel personal, not just procedural. And the freaking twists? They didn’t feel forced. They felt inevitable—the kind that makes you flip back a few pages and think, how the hell did I miss that?

If you love a murder mystery that leans into that mood, psychology, and the quiet intensity rather than just give you a shock value, this one is absolutely worth your time.
It’s unsettling. It was so damn clever.

♾️ ⭐️

[Jennifer Bendel · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a solid debut thriller. I really liked the plot. It was fun to have a medical thriller in the rotation for me. I loved the main character and the twist was really good. What I wanted more of was Blake and Kylie. The book was meant to be based on their relationship but we didn’t get an inside look at the dates and interactions. I would have loved to feel the closeness Kylie felt and then the shock and disappointment from Blake when he was accused by Kylie of “something”. The flashbacks were intriguing but I feel like the didn’t end up being utilized. I can’t wait for the next book in the series to see if we get to dive deeper into Blake’s
Past. I’m dying to get to know these characters on a deeper level.

[Pav S. (pav_sanborn_bookworm) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was thrilled to be invited to read a debut thriller from a new author, and I look forward to seeing what this journey has in store for readers like me. This gripping dark medical thriller is tough to put down!

Dr. Kylie Saunders, a medical resident in New York City, dates the charming Dr. Blake Weathers but ends the relationship due to mixed signals and suspicions. After a colleague is murdered and a secret emerges linking Blake to the crime, Kylie’s concerns deepen. As she investigates the murder, she realizes she may be the next target in the dangerous Manhattan dating scene.

The narrative unfolds through the perspectives of Kylie, Blake, the Boy, and Lisa, along with a handful of supporting characters. Each character is well-developed, making it easy to distinguish them from one another. I love how much medical knowledge and passion are woven throughout these pages. It's clear that the author possesses firsthand experience, which lends an air of authenticity and believability to the story. As a huge fan of Robin Cook, this book is right up my alley. I always appreciate novels, where I can learn something new from the medical intricacies.

The setting is believable and expertly crafted, capturing the hard work and exhaustion that these medical heroes endure. The emphasis on dedication, teamwork, and putting others first is a standout theme that doesn’t go unnoticed. Even though I was able to guess the perpetrator early on, it didn't diminish my overall enjoyment, and I’m eagerly anticipating a sequel!

This book is perfect for anyone fascinated by the darker sides of the medical field, a touch of obsession, or a gripping thriller with an amateur sleuth. It made me ponder how many doctors might actually have a dark streak when it comes to their work. It feels like having a small team from Grey's Anatomy come to life on the pages! Don’t miss out on this promising new author; the vibes this book gives off are truly intriguing! I feel so lucky to have come across this gem!

Thank you, Jessi Kroft and Booksirens, for the DRC copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Akku · Rating 4 out of 5]

✦ 𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 - 4✨

✦ 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 - January 15, 2026

✦ 𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬 -
• medical thriller
• murder mystery
• serial killer reveal
• workplace suspense
• female main character
• psychological tension

✦ 𝐌𝐲 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 -
The Resident Murder is a fast paced medical thriller that pulls you in right from the first chapter. The story follows Dr. Kylie Saunders, a medical resident whose life turns upside down when her colleague and friend Chloe is brutally murdered. What starts as grief slowly turns into obsession as Kylie tries to understand what really happened and who she can trust.
The hospital setting felt very real and intense. The pressure of residency, long shifts, exhaustion, and emotional burnout were written so well. It added a strong realistic layer to the story. I really liked Kylie as a main character. She felt human, vulnerable, curious, and brave in her own quiet way.
The suspense builds slowly but steadily. Suspects keep shifting and the story makes you doubt almost everyone. The reveal of the killer was dark and disturbing, especially the psychological angle behind the crimes. The confrontation scenes were intense and genuinely scary.
I did guess a few things before the final reveal, which is why this is a solid four stars for me instead of five. Still, the execution was strong and the tension kept me turning pages.
Overall, this is a gripping and unsettling thriller with a strong female lead and a chilling villain. Perfect for readers who enjoy medical settings mixed with crime and psychological suspense.
Thank you so much book sirens for the free ARC!

[Ashley Sawyer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dr Kylie Saunders is used to chaos. As a second year resident in a Manhattan hospital, she survives on caffeine, grit, and the thin hope that one day she will actually sleep again. Romance is the last thing on her mind until she meets the magnetic neurosurgeon Blake Weathers. He is brilliant, charming, and just a little too perfect. But when one of Kylie's colleagues is found murdered, the hospital corridors shift from stressful to sinister. Whispers ripple through the residency program and a dating app tied to the victim begins to look less like a harmless swipe right and more like a hunter's playground. With exhaustion clouding her judgment and danger inching closer, Kylie must decide who to trust before the next body turns up.

For a debut novel, this medical thriller met every expectation and then more! Let's get into it! The hospital setting feels so real you can practically smell the antiseptic and burnout. You can tell Kroft knows her stuff because the residency grind is brutal, chaotic, and with detailed explanations is completely immersive. Kylie's the kind of main character I love! Smart, exhausted, a little messy, and trying hard to trust her instincts. The dating scene piece? Tense. The murder plot? Twisty enough that I changed my mind about the killer more than once. And that creeping sense that danger is hiding in plain sight? Chef's kiss. It reads fast, the chapters are short and punchy and the paranoia builds in the best way. If you love medical drama mixed with dating app dread and "can I trust him" energy, this is for you!

Thank you to Literary Loft PR and Jessi Kroft for having me on this book tour! Can't wait for book number two!

[Lu thrillskillsandchills · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Resident Murder is a solid and atmospheric debut medical thriller, with excellent realism and tension, though I did want more depth from the characters.

Set against the demanding backdrop of medical residency in New York City, the story follows Dr Kylie Saunders as a colleague’s murder pulls her into a growing web of suspicion. The medical detail is a standout and adds authenticity without overwhelming the narrative. The exhaustion, pressure, and emotional toll of residency are written with clarity and confidence.

This is a slower-burn thriller, particularly in the first half, where character setup and setting take precedence over high-speed tension. While the pacing tightens nicely in the final third, I found myself wanting more insight into the characters’ emotional worlds, especially the relationships, to fully connect with the stakes as they escalated.

The multiple POVs add intrigue and misdirection, and Blake is a fascinating, deeply flawed character who keeps you guessing. Even when a few plot beats felt slightly predictable, the overall experience remained engaging.

A strong debut that showcases a capable new voice in medical thrillers, and I’m very curious to see how the characters are developed further as the series continues.

[Kay Younger · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wait…WHATTTT. I definitely did not expect that twist. I had so many guesses throughout this book and every single one was wrong. 🤦🏽‍♀️😂 It did drag a bit in places, but not enough to take away from the overall plot or surprise.
Solid, twisty read!

[E. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Um hello, I'm going to want that second book like now. I don't wanna wait for the second book in June. I already pre ordered the sequel.
I finished this book in a day.
This book is wild, and all these characters. And the heartbreak with some of them. My goodness so much drama and then some. I enjoyed reading the medical things and terms for some of this story as well.
That was different, I feel I learned a little something here and there. At least with the different medical terms.
Now reading this story yes some of these characters are flawed in some way or another. Some worse then others. But I can say I liked reading about some of the side characters in this book. But of course my faves are the main characters.
Kylie of course is my favorite, I loved how she brought up these crazy crime podcasts that she listens to and would look at a lot of things like well this happened here or there and maybe watch out for this or that.
When one of their own is murdered, you think was it some random person that did it? And with Kylie nit wanting to let it go wnd really wanting answers I liked that she kept thinking about it. I did feel bad that her dates that she went on never really worked out. I really love Blake even though yes he is flawed and yes he just isn't ready to be tied down with any one female. But I really am shipping him and Kylie. I want him to really think about his life decide that he doesn't want to play games anymore. But I guess we will see in the next book what happens. I will say most of the book it does lead up to a twist of an ending and a wtaf moment. Because I never guessed right. If you are looking for a quick twist of a book and something to make you think well dang really? Get this book in January, preorder it now and do it for the sequel and thank me later. Don't sleep on this one.

[Samiksha Gaur · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished The Resident Murderer by Jessi kroft, and I’m honestly still thinking about it.
This book is so well written and clearly so well researched. The way the true crime cases and details are woven together feels very thought-out, and you can tell how much effort has gone into it. The characters felt different and memorable, not the typical ones you forget after finishing a thriller.
It’s definitely one of those stories that grabs your attention right from the start. I picked it up yesterday and ended up reading almost 70% in one go. I had to stop in between because… life happens. But the moment I picked it up again, I couldn’t put it down until I finished it .
And the ending… I genuinely did not see that coming. Every now and then I thought blake was the killer but I was obviously wrong and the twist completely shocked me. The fact that this particular character turned out to be the serial killer just blew my mind.
Overall, I loved every part of this book. It was gripping, surprising, and so well written. Definitely one of those thrillers that stays with you even after you finish the book.

[Mahi Aggarwal · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Resident Murder by Jessi Kroft:-

This book is not just a medical thriller, it is an emotional storm wrapped inside hospital corridors, complicated relationships, and hidden trauma. "The Resident Murder" blends suspense with psychological depth in a way that keeps you constantly uneasy, yet completely hooked.

At the heart of the story is Kylie, a second-year neurology resident in Manhattan. What makes her character stand out is how human she feels. She is brilliant, hardworking, and observant, yet constantly battling self-doubt. Her imposter syndrome, her exhaustion, her quiet overthinking, everything about her feels authentic. As a reader, I didn’t just watch her story unfold, I felt her anxiety, her confusion, and her emotional vulnerability. She is ambitious but soft-hearted, strong yet unsure. That balance makes her incredibly relatable.

Then there is Blake Weathers, the neurosurgery resident who brings intensity into the narrative. Blake is charismatic, confident, and carries a certain magnetic darkness. On the surface, he appears controlled and almost invincible, especially in his professional life. But the author carefully peels back his layers, revealing emotional scars that shape his personality. His complexity is what makes him compelling. He is not written as a simple romantic interest or a flat suspicious character, he feels layered, unpredictable, and psychologically intriguing.

One of the strongest aspects of this novel is how author builds tension without rushing. The unease grows gradually. Small details, subtle observations, and emotional inconsistencies create a constant sense of discomfort. The story does not rely only on dramatic twists; instead, it uses atmosphere. There is always a quiet tension beneath conversations, beneath romantic moments, beneath hospital interactions.

The supporting characters add richness to the narrative. Lisa, Kylie’s best friend, brings both humor and grounding energy. She is blunt, practical, and protective. Through Lisa, we see the contrast between emotional stability and chaos. Her presence balances Kylie’s emotional vulnerability beautifully.

Chloe is another powerful character. She is polished, disciplined, admired, almost someone Kylie aspires to be like. Her presence in the story adds emotional weight, especially as the tension surrounding her builds. She represents perfection on the surface, but her storyline adds a darker layer to the book’s central mystery.

Stratton, Chloe’s brother, is written in a way that subtly unsettles the reader. His charm feels slightly off-balance, and that discomfort is intentional. Even minor characters like Marta, Bailey, Hassan, Anaya, and Chief Resident Mae Lang contribute to making the hospital environment feel real and immersive. The residency setting is not just a backdrop, it becomes a character in itself. The exhaustion, competition, hierarchy, and pressure are portrayed with striking realism.

What I truly appreciated is how the novel explores deeper themes- trauma, power, loneliness, and the psychological impact of childhood experiences. Especially through Blake’s background, the author shows how early wounds can silently shape adult behavior. The idea of control and power, particularly in the medical field , is handled thoughtfully.

Emotionally, this book feels heavy in the best way. There is romance, but it is never purely soft or dreamy. There is suspense, but it is rooted in human psychology rather than just crime. The writing style is engaging and easy to follow, yet layered enough to make you think.

If I mention a small critique, at times the emotional push-and-pull in Kylie and Blake’s dynamic feels slightly prolonged. However, that repetition mirrors real-life confusion in modern relationships, which makes it believable rather than unrealistic. Also that party seen of dr. Blake in other doctor residence was little bored and uninterested portion.

Rest,
Overall, The Resident Murder is gripping, unsettling, and emotionally layered. It keeps you questioning trust, love, ambition, and the thin line between vulnerability and danger. I finished the book feeling restless and thoughtful. Looking forward for the next part. Truly excited.
Rating:- 4.3/5

[Dr. Naushin Moledina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dr. Kylie Saunders, a neurology resident in Manhattan, has little time for romance amid the demands of her training—until she meets Dr. Blake Weathers, a fifth-year neurosurgery resident. When she starts receiving mixed signals from him, she’s unsure whether to continue seeing him. Things take a dark turn when one of her co-residents is murdered, pulling Kylie into an investigation she can’t resist because of her love for crime mysteries. Will she be able to find the killer before the killer finds her?

“The Resident Murder” by Jessi Kroft is a debut novel that weaves together the murder of Kylie’s co-resident with the complexities of the NYC dating scene.

As the story alternates between Kylie, Blake, and “The Boy,” every character feels suspicious. The character development is strong, with everyone hiding something and battling their own struggles. Medical thrillers are my favorite because of the depth of medical knowledge they offer, and this one truly delivered. As a medical professional myself, I deeply related to Kylie and Blake—the workload, the neglect of self-care, the late-night calls, and the constant judgment we face daily.

The setting is expertly crafted, with NYC at the heart of everything, taking readers on a vivid stroll through the city. The dating app adds another layer of mystery, and with dating life at the center of the plot, the stakes feel even higher. The pacing picks up after the first half, and the killer was completely unexpected, which makes it a solid thriller.

While there are a few details that could have been trimmed, they ultimately made the characters feel more real, so I didn’t mind them. Nothing else stood out as bothersome.

Perfect for fans of medical thrillers, with a touch of obsession and a love for shows like Grey’s Anatomy and House, M.D.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Courtney · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dr. Kylie Saunders is waiting to be relieved at the end of her shift when her replacement, the always reliable Chloe, fails to arrive. Kylie calls her superior to report the situation, but no one can reach Chloe. Concerned, Kylie contacts her brother to see if he has heard from Chloe, only to learn that Chloe has been brutally murdered. It appears that Chloe must have known the killer, as she allowed them into her apartment. However, since she had been using a dating app called Connections, it is proving difficult to determine who she might have let into her home.

Kylie hasn't had much luck in the dating scene herself, but when she discovers blood at the home of a man she's been seeing—who sometimes seems shady—she begins to wonder if he could be a suspect in the murder, especially after learning there is a connection between them. However, the deeper Kylie investigates the life of her murdered friend, the more she realizes that the dating scene is far deadlier than she ever imagined.

————————————————————

This is not a book I would typically choose, as I usually don't care about relationships or dating. However, this story was different. It was dark, twisty, and unsettling, and I loved the close-knit community of the residents.

This was an absolutely fantastic debut thriller. I was not surprised in the least to read in the Not from the author that the author is a physician.

I am eagerly looking forward to the sequel.

If you enjoy medical-themed thrillers, this should definitely be on your radar!

I did not see the twist coming and never really knew whom to suspect; it seemed the list of suspects was endless.

This was such an enjoyable book that kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time.

[ayisha · Rating 5 out of 5]

The resident murder is a gripping blend of romance .. horror & psychological suspense that sinks its claws into you from the very first page and refuses to let go until the final shocking reveal
🖤
Set in the intense world of medical residency, the story follows kylie a second year neurology resident and Blake , handsome and enigmatic.. fifth year neurosurgeon resident. Their relationship is complicated….on & off , emotionally charged and fuelled by an undeniable attraction that lingers beneath every interaction…. But just as emotion begins to surface. Everything takes a dark and devastating turn
🖤
When Chloe …. Kylie‘s best friend and co resident is found murdered in her apartment.!!
On the very night she was supposed to cover Kylie’s shift ….the story spirals into a chilling mystery… suspicious spreads fast and no one is safe. With multiple suspects, including Kylie herself, her fellow residence and even chloe’s own brother.
The tension escalates with every chapter.!!
🖤
What truly said this novel apart is the authors masterful narration… the attention to detail the unsettling atmosphere and the way each crew is carefully placed. Make the story impossible to predict..!! Just when you think you figured it out… the plot, take a sharp turn
🖤
Every assumption shatters… and the truth reveals itself in the most unexpected way
🖤
The plot twist at the end is genuinely jaw dropping .!!! The kind that makes you pause reread nd question everything that came before it.!
🖤
Dark , intense & emotionally layered, the resident murder is a must read for fans of romantic thrillers .. serial killer mysteries and medical dramas with sinister edge.
🖤
If you love stories that keep your heart racing and your mind guessing until the very last page …this book deserves a spot on your TBR❤️‍🔥

[Karen Bowness · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to receive an ARC for free of The Resident Murder by Jessi Kroft to read and leave an honest review. It turned out to be a compelling mix of love, betrayal, and murder set against the high-pressure world of hospital residency.

The story follows Kylie, a second-year neurology intern drowning in long hours, exhaustion, and the very relatable desire to find love. Her foray into dating apps leads to some truly disastrous dates, but things get interesting when she meets Blake, a more advanced resident who’s clearly brilliant, deeply driven, and just a little too guarded. Blake’s troubled childhood and fascination with the brain add layers to his character, and from early on it’s clear he’s hiding secrets.

When a fellow resident is brutally murdered, the hospital is thrown into chaos. No one seems like an obvious suspect, but as clues slowly emerge, alliances shift and suspicions grow. The twists keep coming, and just when you think you’ve figured it out, the story takes another turn. I genuinely kept guessing right up until the end.

While I did find some sections a bit repetitive, the overall storyline was engaging, and the neurological resident setting was both unique and fascinating.

Overall, The Resident Murder is a solid, twisty murder mystery that blends romance, psychology, and suspense. If you enjoy thrillers with complex characters and an ending that keeps you guessing, this one is definitely worth picking up.

[Katherine · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Resident Murder is a heart-pounding thriller that follows Dr.Kylie, an ardently hardworking medical professional who is busy with her life and career. Upon meeting Dr. Blake, a fellow neurologist resident, Kylie saw a chance of romance but it got quickly squashed when he kept ambiguous communication which led to conflicting emotions.

As Kylie tries a dating app called Connections, one of her friends ends up murdered and somehow it's linked to Blake. As things take a deadly turn, she needs to get her wits together because Kylie has just become the next target of the killer. The game of chase and survival has just begun and she is the centre of it all.

This was a fantastic page turner of a psychological thriller. The narration and plot twists were captivating. The unpredictability and the blurring lines of reality and fear were absolutely intriguing. The author has done a commendable job in keeping the identity of the killer a secret all along. The massive twist at the conclusion is such a great surprise. Reading this gripping thriller was a fantastic experience as the plot was highly engaging and the characters were realistic. They all carried traumas of the past, while some became the better versions of themselves others let their insanity consume them.

If you are looking for a captivating thriller with the edge of your seat vibes then "The Resident Murder" should definitely satiate your curiosity.

[tappingintonewpages · Rating 4 out of 5]

Being a medical drama fan this book made an immediate addition to my tbr. But it didn't just stop there, it promised a gripping murder mystery and safe to say it didn't disappoint at all. Set in the competitive backdrop of Manhattan, New York, the story provides a look into the medical residency program and the challenges residents face at the start of their demanding career. 

The author takes you deep into the medical terminologies and even deeper dive into the characters and their persona. This is my first time reading a medical murder mystery and the slow-burn pace strengthened my grip on the story. As the story goes on further, the pace transforms and the story unfolds much faster. The story is equipped with multiple povs giving the reader a perspective into the different lives in the same story. 

When the FMC gets tangled up in the unexpected murder of her friend and fellow resident, as the layer unfolds, the truth turns out to be far more dangerous and bigger than she could have ever imagined. It makes you question everyone and everything. Do we really know the people around us even if we spend most of our time together? 

I also appreciated that the author has kept details about the gore content to a minimum, making this story suitable for readers who loves suspense and thrillers but does not want to experience the trauma it brings. 

Overall, The Resident Murder is an impressive debut that skillfully blends medical drama with suspense. With multiple povs, engaging characters, and medical drama it's a good read

[Veronica · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️ ARC Book Review ⭐️

Modern dating is hard… but in this book, it’s deadly. 👀💀📱

Dr. Kylie Saunders is already drowning in her brutal NYC medical residency, so romance isn’t exactly top priority—until she meets Dr. Blake Weathers. Charming, brilliant, too good to be true… and maybe he actually is.

When a colleague is murdered and Kylie uncovers a secret linking Blake to the crime, her true-crime hobby suddenly turns into a very real investigation. Add in a dating app that might be helping a killer find victims, and Kylie realizes the Manhattan dating scene is way more dangerous than ghosting or bad first dates.

This thriller is:
🧠 medical drama meets true-crime obsession
❤️‍🔥 tension, red flags, and romantic misdirection
🔪 murder mystery woven perfectly through NYC chaos
📱 a killer who might be just one swipe away

And let me tell you… this had me convinced it was one person—and then BOOM, surprise twist, it was someone else entirely. I love when a thriller catches me off guard, and this one nailed it.

A fast, twisty, bingeable read that keeps you swiping pages like your life depends on it. 💀📖✨

[jenny is reading again · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dr. Kylie Saunders, a busy medical resident in New York City, becomes entangled with a charming but secretive colleague before turning to a dating app. When a friend is murdered and the killer appears to be using the app to target victims, Kylie uncovers a chilling connectio and realizes she may be next.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Many thanks to the author.

This fast-paced medical thriller is a standout debut that delivers chills and suspense. Set against the high pressure world of medical residency and the modern dating scene, the story balances tension that keeps the pages turning.

The pacing is spot on. There’s just enough buildup to keep the suspense simmering with twists arriving at exactly the right moments. The medical setting adds authenticity without overwhelming the plot, making it especially welcoming for readers new to the genre.

This book is gripping and thoroughly entertaining. It is the perfect recommendation for first-time medical thriller readers and a promising introduction to an author who clearly knows how to keep us on edge.

3.5 ⭐️

[Nivetha · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book by Jessi Kroft is a medium paced book where the first half is a slow paced that creeps into your body slowly and the second half is pretty fast paced like its unputdowneable.

Kylie, a second year resident pursuing in field of neurology. She's not committed but tries on dating app and goes on dates occasionally. She meets Blake, our handsome fifth year neurosurgery resident at a party and find themselves talking for hours about their profession without boredom.

Meanwhile there's a murder of a co-resident named Chloe who was an all rounder - beautiful, professionally smart and soft hearted.

There are some suspects but they aren't real suspects. So who's the real killer?

The twists are what makes this book keep guessing until end. The minute details in an operation theater, the brain's deep layers, the informations on neuro department was pretty fascinating and detailed. The suspense was well built.

I would definitely recommend this book who loves not just adrenaline rush thriller; but for someone who loves the thriller that runs deeper to unraveling the layers of a profession.

[Vasvi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Honestly, I wasn’t expecting the ending and that made the whole book so intriguing till the last page. I was glued to the book and each page made the suspense, even more thrilling 🤫

Every character in this book was so interesting to read, and the way the author wrote them made me question every single of them I’m not even kidding.🫣

I I felt so dumb after reading the ending because how wasn’t I able to guess the twist 🫠🫠🫠

The first few chapters were a little boring, but after that, the book started to feel interesting and with it, I felt more connected to the story🤌🏻(trust me it does get better!!!!)

My favourite characters would be Kylie and Blake because they seemed so mysterious and specially Blake, the way the author introduced him made me think that he might be the main killer, but oh God, how badly I was wrong😭😭

I loved the character of Kylie because I felt so connected with her, the way she talked about books and crime podcasts!!!

Overall I loved the book, if anyone wants to read something that will make you question about who you think is the main killer and then prove you wrong again and again, then this book is for you🫠🤫

[Risha · Rating 4 out of 5]

From the time I started this book I was so fully invested in it because there were mentions of so many things that I'm interested in.
I thoroughly enjoyed watching Grey's anatomy and to read a book about all that a student of medicine has to go through during residency was so much better than watching it honestly. Another aspect that piqued my interest was the character of the FMC and how she's obsessed with true crime podcasts. I resonated so much with it cause I also try to read about cases such as kitty genovese and a few others mentioned in the book.
I was also reminded of the book the boyfriend by Frieda mcfadden as I read a few scenes of this book, nothing the same but just a few similarities.
I would really like to congratulate the author here because it's her debut novel and I must say that she has nailed it in keeping her readers hooked with her writing. There's not a place where you'd feel bored when you're reading it just intrigued to know what's next. I believe she herself is in the medical field and the way she's covered scenarios that happen during residency is commendable.
Definitely a good and easy thriller read if you'd like to get out of a reading slump and I thoroughly enjoyed the book. Finally a big thank you to literary loft pr for a free e-copy of the book.

[Hanny Choudhary · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book completely hooked me from the start. I thought I would read just a few chapters at one time, but I ended up finishing it so fast all because I just couldn’t put it down.
The story keeps you curious and tense the whole time. Every chapter makes you want to know what's going to happen next.
The story was set inside a hospital residency, and it felt very real and interesting.
The mystery was written really well.
When a colleague is murdered and secrets start coming out and no one feels trustworthy, the tension keeps building throughout the story. I kept guessing who the killer was and kept being wrong. The final twist honestly shocked me.
I also liked how the story is told from different point of views. It helped me to connect more with them.
The characters felt real, emotional, and sometimes even suspicious which made this so much better.
Overall, this was a fast-paced, gripping, and exciting read. If you enjoy psychological thrillers, and unexpected twists, you’ll definitely like this book. I’m already looking forward to the next book.

[Julia Wiener · Rating 5 out of 5]

I stayed up far too late reading this and then woke up early just to finish it.

The author weaves real-life neurology and medical terminology into a gripping work of fiction. Be prepared to learn a few new terms if you are not in the medical field like me. You can feel the energy of New York City coming straight off the pages, which made the story even more immersive. I love NYC, and I especially enjoyed picturing all the places the characters moved through as the story unfolded.

The book delivers on so many levels: romance, strong and intelligent women, excellent character development, and a plot that keeps you turning pages and wanting more.

What I especially appreciated is that while this is fiction, the main character feels grounded and believable. There are none of the eye-roll inducing, unrealistic reactions you sometimes see in thrillers. The writing is sharp, confident, and polished. For a debut novel, this reads like the work of a seasoned author.

I want a movie adaptation immediately.

[Shree Mondal · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review
I don't know what I just read! The story was so intriguing! Fast-paced and thrilling, you won't realize when it is finished.

It was my very first read of Jessi Kroft; honestly, she is one of the best thriller writers, I would say. Her writing was so damn perfect, capturing the hospital days of a doctor, defining each aspect of hospital life from the night shifts to the mental stress. Mostly, it illustrates how hectic a doctor's life can be.

The most thrilling part was the murder scene. I mean, I don't have words to express it, so I would like to keep it short: in one word, the most thrilling murder mystery I have ever read.

The character building was awesome, especially the tension between Kylie and CNS/Blake. The plot development, the suspense, and the twist were incredible.

If you are looking for a fast-paced murder mystery thriller set in a medical background, just go for it.

[N S · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Resident Murder had me hooked right from the start. The narration is engaging and fast-paced enough to keep things interesting throughout. The story follows a resident doctor who is also a true-crime podcast enthusiast. She's lonely, overworked, and trying to navigate her demanding schedule. She is smart, talented, and observant, with the mindset of someone who truly understands crime thrillers, which makes her a compelling protagonist to follow.

I loved how she connected the dots which made the investigation feel immersive. The author does a good job of keeping us guessing about the murderer, although after a point it becomes relatively easy to predict. Still the climax is truly thrilling and satisfying.

There were moments in the middle where the story felt a bit slow due to excessive explanations and descriptions, which slightly affected the pacing for me. However, it didn’t take away from the overall experience.

Overall, The Resident Murder is a solid and enjoyable thriller.

[_bookbrew_ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Modern dating can be such a killer..." and this thriller absolutely proves it.

The Resident Murder follows Dr. Kylie Saunders, a true crime loving medical resident trying to survive both her grueling NYC residency and the chaos of modern dating. When she meets the charming (and slightly too perfect) Dr. Blake Weathers, sparks fly... but so do red flags. And when a colleague is brutally murdered, Kylie starts to wonder if the danger is closer than she thinks.

What I loved: 🖤The medical residency setting stressful, intense, and incredibly immersive

🖤The dating app angle timely and unsettling.

🖤Suspense that builds steadily with plenty of "wait...WHAT?" moments.

🖤A heroine who questions her instincts but doesn't ignore them.

The author does a great job blending romance tension with psychological thriller vibes. The Manhattan dating scene felt realistic and made the stakes even higher. If you enjoy thrillers where trust is fragile and everyone feels a little suspicious, this one's for you.

And the ending was unexpected🤯

Perfect for fans of fast-paced thrillers with strong female leads and a dash of romance gone wrong.

[Ney oh the thrill of it FN · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh what a debut!

I received an advance review copy for free via Booksirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

This story sounded so good from the outset and it delivered on that promise. The prologue was dark and disturbing and I knew I needed to know more.

The story is told from multiple Povs, with quite short chapters making this book thrilling and bingeable

What I loved was the accuracy of the medical speak, the level of detail and the mention of real true crime cases. It just felt like an overall immersive experience.

The author does a great job of misdirecting whilst also feeding in subtle clues, adding to the mystery. It is definitely a gripping read.

I had many theories about what had happened but only guessed the ending as it was revealed, so it was still a shocker. The killer is the absolute best kind of unhinged and I'm here for it.

I really enjoyed this and cant wait for the others in the series!

[Fathima Aaqhila · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Resident Murder by Jessie Kroft is a tense medical thriller that opens with a chilling promise of danger and never fully lets the reader relax. Told through the lens of Dr. Kylie Saunders, a second-year neurosurgery resident in New York City, the story captures the suffocating pressure of residency, the loneliness of big-city life, and the emotional chaos of modern dating. Kylie is smart, exhausted, and deeply human, while the brooding presence of senior resident Dr. Blake Weathers adds unease rather than comfort. As routine hospital life fractures into psychological suspense, suspicion quietly spreads and trust becomes fragile. With its moody atmosphere, realistic medical setting, and slow-burn tension, this novel blends workplace drama and true-crime intrigue into a gripping, unsettling read that proves appearances can be dangerously misleading.