Deadly Mercy: A Bailey Flynn FBI Mystery Thriller Book Eight

by Melinda Woodhall

The Dark Past of a Killer Comes Back to Haunt Summerset County
When a deadly hit and run accident leads to the discovery of a local woman’s eviscerated body, Special Agent Bailey Flynn soon discovers that the man who committed the unspeakable crime is responsible for two other grisly homicides in the area.
After a local beekeeper with information about the murders goes missing, Bailey must delve into the killer’s tortured past and unearth the shocking truth about his twisted motive for murder before another life is taken.
Book Eight in the new FBI mystery thriller series by Melinda Woodhall, author of the Bridget Bishop FBI Mystery Thriller Series and the Veronica Lee Thriller Series.

311 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 1, 2025

Reviews

[Faith Townsend · Rating 4 out of 5]

I do enjoy this series. It would be nice to read about Bailey and Dalton work another case together

[Toni Osborne · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Bailey Flynn FBI Mystery book # 8

The story in a few words:

A deadly hit and run accident lead to the discovery of a local woman’s body who had shortly gone missing along with the grisly death of two other bodies fond in a pond close by. Sending Special Agent Bailey Flynn on the cases. Bailey is good at her job and didn’t take time before she discovered the shocking truth behind the twisted mind of the killer. She had to stop him before another life is taken…..a drama is on….enjoy.

My thoughts:

I enjoy this story so suspenseful it was hard to put down, I actually zipped through it in no time, that engaging. The story is dark, fast-paced and juggles many threads which tied together smartly by the end although leaves open the door for a sequel…

With sharp dialogue and in vivid details we navigate along with Bailey procedural details that eventually bring an end to the saga. This is a good page-turner that brings forward a strong female lead and ensures that you will not be only engaged but entertained to the very end. The author’s style is simple and clean and can be enjoyed by all: no censure needed.

I am a huge fan of this author all her books have been solid read.

I received a copy of this book for free with no obligations to write a review.

[Kirsty Calam · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book#8 is my first introduction to the Bailey Flynn series and oh boy, I will definitely be reading the first 7!

I found it fast paced and gripping with plenty of twists that had me completely hooked from start to finish. Absolutely fantastic read!

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

[Tom Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another good one from Ms. Woodhall! It’s been a while since I’d checked in with Bailey Flynn, but I enjoyed this one as much as the others.

[Linae · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great story

The Agent Flynn series captivates readers with its gripping narrative, seamlessly weaving together the expertise of search dogs and the determined protagonist Bailey. Each installment offers a unique, pulse-pounding drama that draws readers into a complex web of investigation, where law enforcement professionals and family members collaborate to unravel intricate criminal cases. The compelling storytelling ensures readers remain engaged from the first page to the thrilling conclusion.

[Trudie Collins · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have read a number of books by this author and have enjoyed them all. The Bailey Flynn series is by far my favourite and this is the best book so far. I think the author must have done a lot of research for this one as it comes across as she knows what she is talking about. This book is highly captivating and any fan of murder/mystery will love it.

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

[Lynda Custer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deadly Mercy continues to build the world of FBI Agen Bailey Flynnt. This world is filled with the dangers and twists that one encounters when dealing with the criminal mind. The Bailey Flynn series constructs a world that is filled with agents, police, family, friend and opponents when facing the problems while solving crimes.

During the series, the characters have become old friends to this reader. There is an emotional attachment that ha developed. I enjoy is that I can find a character or the system totally annoying or that I can be rooting for a characters love life.

Deadly Mercy: Bailey Flynn book 8 is another exciting thriller by Melinda Woodhall. It does not disappoint.

[Alyssa · Rating 4 out of 5]

4/5 ⭐️

At first, I wasn’t thoroughly impressed with the start of this book, it lacks the pull in of a plot drive for me. I always give books a chance, even if it takes until the last chapter, and this one… pulled through!! The ending of this book had a twist I did not see coming. Overall I enjoyed and am glad I finished reading!

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

[Katrina Freckleton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Once again Melinda Woodhall had us in thrall with Bailey, Dalton, Fraser and others working as a team to solve the intricacies of new murders, plus being linked to other criminals from previous reads. I also enjoy that the sniffer dogs are again part of the team and along with bringing to light the darker side of organ transplants this makes for a very interesting read.

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

[Kellie Whittam · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another solid read from Melinda Woodhall. This one takes on the dark subject of organ harvesting.

Sabrina seemed a little more subdued in this book compared to earlier ones, which was a change in her character. Dalton had a smaller role this time. I always enjoy when he and Bailey work together, which I missed this time.

The pace of the story was good, making it another easy and enjoyable read. With a few of the "bad guys" now out of the picture, I’m interested to see how things develop and where the next book will take the story.

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

[Anne G. Kasaba · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a great addition to the series. It is well written and has an interesting storyline. The mystery is well plotted and complex enough to keep me guessing but not so convoluted that it became frustrating. The regular cast of characters are all involved in solving this one. An enjoyable read.

I received an arc of this book and voluntarily provided a review.

[Mary Ryan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is another great read in the series. The subject matter is quite gruesome and the storyline was riveting. It grabbed me right from the start with the reappearance of someone we thought was dead in the earlier books but that doesn't last for long. Subsequently this leads to a worse discovery which brings Bailey and the FBI into the investigation as it has links to a person of interest.

I liked how the different parts of the story ultimately line up together even if things don't look like they are linked initially. It's always skilfully done and I never realised it all along until it just happened. If I had to wish for something, I'd like to see more of Bailey and Dalton together in an investigation but not sure how that could happen. I hope there's more to come in the series as it's terrific and would be great to see it continue.

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

[Caroline · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have read all of the previous Bailey Flynn books and really enjoyed them, but for me this one felt a little flat.

It took me longer to read than the earlier books,and the pace seemed a bit slower.

However, the storyline was as always with Melinda's books engaging, and the characters are nicely developed. I just wish it had been written at a slightly faster pace.

Thanks to Book Sirens for sending me a copy to read and review

[Raymond · Rating 5 out of 5]

I like the Bailey Flynn series and read them as soon as they come out. This is the eighth book in the series, and I am looking forward to the ninth. It works as a standalone.

This book is a page turner, gripping from start to finish. The main crime is more gruesome than most in the series, but not unrealistic. The suspense is strong, and Bailey's life is in danger. The ending was exciting and kept me going.

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

[Nicole Collins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this series I have read everyone so far I cant wait till the next one comes out.


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

[Debbie DiFiore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just keeps getting better

I really love this series. Its awesome and I love that Bailey and her crew saved serenity from the organ harvesting. But I was really sad that the other person was killed for nothing. Can't say who but it was sad. Even if they were guilty. It was sad and it was horrible and it scared me that this really does happen!

[Delphia Von Heeder · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deadly Mercy is Book 8 in the Bailey Flynn Series by Melinda Woodhall. I have read every book in this series, and, Book 8 is the very best book in the series. Tony stumbled upon an old house and found a body with missing eyes. of course Tony is killed. His death unleashed a wild rest of the book. You have a crime boss, blackmailer, and Jack is tied to England padt. I received an arc for free and am leaving review voluntarily.

[Estelle Bouldin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Deadly Mercy is the eighth installment in Melinda Woodhall’s Bailey Flynn FBI Mystery Thriller series, and it wastes no time pulling you into a chilling case that blends mob ties, blackmail, and a truly disturbing crime scene.

When disgraced lawyer Tony Brunner resurfaces—only to die spectacularly on a lonely Florida road—Special Agent Bailey Flynn is called in. What follows is a race against time that leads Bailey and her team to a decrepit estate with a dark past, where victims are left mutilated in ways that evoke echoes of Jack the Ripper.

This book is dark, fast-paced, and suspenseful, with multiple plot threads that tie together neatly while still leaving room for more in future installments. Woodhall balances procedural detail with sharp dialogue and vivid, unsettling imagery that sticks with you long after you’ve closed the book.

Verdict: A gripping, high-stakes thriller perfect for fans of Lisa Gardner or Karin Slaughter. If you like your crime fiction with strong female leads and a dash of historical creepiness, Deadly Mercy will keep you turning the pages late into the night.

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

[MEGAN]

Loved it

[Shirley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another good installment on the Bailey Flynn series. Full of suspense and twists you won't see coming. A page turner, you won't want to put down. Recommend. Received an ARC and this is my voluntary honest review.

[Kathryn Read · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've loved all of the books in this series so far, but this one really had me on the edge of my seat…

Not only were there a few closed loops from the previous novels that propelled the latest story forwards, but we also see Bailey's home situation evolving.

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

This novel FELT short because it was so fast paced - or maybe because I couldn't stop reading. Morals and money are always great motivators and it was interesting to see medical ethics dealt with in this latest instalment of the series.

[Sharmani Jayaram · Rating 5 out of 5]

Special Agent Bailey Flynn is on a grisly murder investigation which started with a hit and run accident. There is a lot more to this than it seemed. A action packed thriller with lots of suspense and a nail-biting finish to it. An intriguing read. I received this ARC copy via Booksirans. I recommend this book to other readers.

[Beverly · Rating 4 out of 5]

After the first dastardly deeds, I felt sick to my stomach, because I felt I knew what was happening, and it made me heartsick. I knew it!!! But not whodunit. Just when you think it's bad; it gets worse and very dark. If you're up for this dark beauty, take the plunge. Another stimulating, chilling, depraved winner for this author. This will chill you to your bones!! I voluntarily read a free copy of this book provided by book sirens and am giving an honest review.

[Lorelei Tomlinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this book. It was hard to put down. The story is about a death that is connected to a series of grisly murders and the police investigation to find the killer. The story was very suspenseful and was easy to follow. It is a very engaging book.

I received a free advance reader copy of this book. The opinion that I express here is my own.

[TrishAM · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read and loved all of Melinda Woodhall's series, this is the eighth book in the Bailey Flynn Thrillers, it can totally be read, and enjoyed, as a standalone but I would urge reading the series in sequence to get to know all the wonderful characters.
"Her eyes were .......gone" these were the last words of Tony Brunner as he was hit by a car, the same Tony Brunner who had been chased by the FBI and was presumed dead many months ago.
It doesn't take FBI Special Agent Bailey Flynn and her trusty K9, Ludwig, to find the body of a young woman, killed in the most gut wrenching and macabre way. Further investigation uncovers two more bodies, one of a young firefighter who Bailey's partner, Dalton, had been hired to find. Dalton was distressed and angry that he hadn't been able to find the young firefighter alive and he was determined to help Bailey in the search for the sadistic killer.
Who was behind these hideous murders ? what was the link between the victims ? could they find other missing women before it was too late ? A very sickening thought was emerging in Bailey's head, she hoped that she was wrong but it soon became clear that she wasn't, this killer had an agenda and no one was safe.
This story is fast paced, it has plenty of action and suspense and it draws you in from the start, I found it very difficult to put down.
I received a free copy of this book and my review is voluntary.

[Randy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another absolute page turner on the Bailey Flynn gang. As usual it starts out with a slow burn, and the fire starts to rage and by the end of the book you are turning pages unable to put the book down. You just have to know will the reach them in time, who will live and who will die?
Bailey goes to a seemingly routine traffic accident where a thought to be dead nemesis is finally without a doubt dead. But why and what was he doing there and what did his final "she has no eyes" mean and what was he doing in the area?

Bailey follows up on the no eyes and Dalton is looking for a young man who seemingly left town without any reason or knowledge of his family. What they find is the cases are connected, and they are sharing information which moves them onto a case of more missing bodies and missing body parts.

Without going into detail and ruin the story it's another likely story of the rich taking from others what is not given to them but stolen by them. Great story and very quick read as are all of Melinda's books once you start forgetting sleep as you can go on less! Highly recommended series and book.

[John · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC through "Booksirens" and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

This story begins with Tony Brunner resurfacing after being thought dead. This time around he got hit by a car and is definitely dead. With this discovery, there was another discovery as well. Bailey had Ludwig track down a scent and the result was the discovery of another body. While CIS was searching the premise, they came up on some clothes which in the end resulted in discovery of two skeletons in the pond. This is now quite the case. It was learned that one of the skeletons belonged to a fire fighter who had gone missing and where Dalton was hired to find.

Follow along as Bailey and Fraser search for the killer of Brunner as well as the body found at the home. Discover the reason behind all of the killings as well who was involved. Each of the people killed was for a specific reason, read and discover why each of them was targeted.

The ending is well done and will answer any questions that you might have. This is definitely a book well worth reading, don't miss out!

[Tammy Lunsford - Escape to Books By Tammy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book opens up with a hit and run involving a surprise victim. The initial scene after that is gruesome and beyond scary, especially realizing what some people will do for money.

Bailey Flynn and company get pulled into this hit and run and find a little more than they bargained for off the roadway. This story had several things going on, but the author never lost me as to who was who and what their purpose in the story would be. In fact, Melinda Woodhall's pace and style of writing make her books easy and enjoyable to read. As is always the case in the Bailey Flynn series, the creep factor is high and no one is safe.

This one was gripping from beginning to end with a wild and crazy surprise at the end. I always enjoy a Bailey Flynn mystery, and this one definitely did not disappoint. I enjoy a compelling mystery, and this one was so good that I stayed up late to finish it.

Thank you to BookSirens and the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Denise · Rating 3 out of 5]

This author always has very good mysteries for the characters to solve, however, I once again have an issue with the personal lives of Bailey and Cate. I do not understand! For me - you need to have some personal life to round out the characters - I've said this repeatedly and the next book is better, then we go go back no life characters and it drives me crazy. This was one of worst - I think because she wrote some personal stuff for them - but it was weird. Bailey and Dalton are now living together - yet they barely spoke - the rest of the time it was like two ships passing. Honestly - I thought of The Sixth Sense - when it looks like Bruce and his wife are still together when in fact - ghost. And Cate - newly married and hiding some major things from Mason...seriously? Then, we have Bailey put herself in danger unnecessarily - she had options - it does not build tension for me, it just annoys me.

[Teresa Collins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another excellent ensemble cast police procedural/thriller by Melinda Woodhall. Having read all of Ms. Woodhall's books, I have semi-figured out her procedure for designating who the perpetrator will be. Even then, she still manages to surprise me. She comes up with more twists and turns than I expect and continues to surprise with her endings. That is one of my favorite things about her books. She never gets dull, and you never feel like the books are a repeat of the one before. She always manages to put a fresh spin on her stories. Another favorite thing is my K-9 friends. Dogs are the very best, and any time they are added to a story is a big bonus for me. I love her furry heroes and enjoy spending time with them as much as their two-legged counterparts. If you haven't read any of Ms. Woodhall's books, I highly recommend you do. I received a review copy from the author via BookSirens, and this review reflects my honest and voluntary opinion.