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Dark Current Rising
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Expected 6 Jan 26Win a free kindle copy of this book!
5 days and 00:42:57
20 copies available
U.S. only
A missing woman. A haunted detective. A town built on secrets.
When Detective Lane Sutherlin returns to Tidewell, Virginia, it isn’t by choice. She’s back in the small waterfront town she once called home to search for her childhood best friend, Addie, who’s vanished without a trace.
But coming home means more than chasing leads. Lane finds her father—the town’s respected former judge—slipping further into dementia. Old wounds with her brother flare, resentments deepen, and the house she grew up in feels less like a refuge and more like a reminder of everything she’s lost.
As Lane digs into Addie’s life, she uncovers more than she bargained a toxic marriage, whispered betrayals, and powerful men determined to protect their own. Every clue draws Lane closer to Tidewell’s polished elite—and to the rot lurking beneath their perfect façades. Soon she realizes Addie may not have been the only target.
In Tidewell, the past is never really past—and some secrets refuse to stay buried. Lane must untangle lies, face old enemies, and risk everything to bring the truth to light…even if it means becoming a target herself.
When Detective Lane Sutherlin returns to Tidewell, Virginia, it isn’t by choice. She’s back in the small waterfront town she once called home to search for her childhood best friend, Addie, who’s vanished without a trace.
But coming home means more than chasing leads. Lane finds her father—the town’s respected former judge—slipping further into dementia. Old wounds with her brother flare, resentments deepen, and the house she grew up in feels less like a refuge and more like a reminder of everything she’s lost.
As Lane digs into Addie’s life, she uncovers more than she bargained a toxic marriage, whispered betrayals, and powerful men determined to protect their own. Every clue draws Lane closer to Tidewell’s polished elite—and to the rot lurking beneath their perfect façades. Soon she realizes Addie may not have been the only target.
In Tidewell, the past is never really past—and some secrets refuse to stay buried. Lane must untangle lies, face old enemies, and risk everything to bring the truth to light…even if it means becoming a target herself.
242 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication January 6, 2026
1104 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
October 31, 2025
Ashley Farley can do no wrong! She can write heartwarming stories, murder mystery stories, fantasy stories or cop stories.
If you are in need of a new author, please give my friend Ashley a try!!
This book was so good and kept me reading long into the night to find out who did it!!
Yes it was about a murder but it was not a gory story at all, more a ‘who done it!’
And as I always say in my reviews - you never know what to expect in an Ashley Farley book! She’s very talented and very good to her readers and we love her!!
If you are in need of a new author, please give my friend Ashley a try!!
This book was so good and kept me reading long into the night to find out who did it!!
Yes it was about a murder but it was not a gory story at all, more a ‘who done it!’
And as I always say in my reviews - you never know what to expect in an Ashley Farley book! She’s very talented and very good to her readers and we love her!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ashley Farley has long been one of my favorite authors with her Southern women's fiction novels. This new series is her first foray into suspense and she proved that she can write anything!
Detective Lane Sutherlin is a detective in Richmond. After an error on an arrest, she is given 30 days off to try to get her mind right. When she receives a cryptic phone message from her hometown of Tidewell, Va. She immediately returns to Tidewell to join the search for her best friend Addie. The first thing she finds when she returns to her family home is that her father has advanced dementia. Her father was once a well liked judge and she is upset that her brother didn't tell her about their father. These two major plot lines keep the story tense with surprises on every page. No one knows what happened to Addie -- even her own husband doesn't have a clue. Addie never liked him so he was the first person she wanted to investigate. The deeper she digs, the more In Tidewell, the past is never really past—and some secrets refuse to stay buried. Lane must untangle lies, face old enemies, and risk everything to bring the truth to light…even if it means becoming a target herself.
This well written novel was a real page turner and the characters were all well written. It was easy to like Lane who wanted desperately to find out what happened to Addie and at the same time deal with her father's dementia. She was a strong woman and was willing to take on the rich people in town to find the answers
Based on the first book of this new series, I can't wait for the next book! I highly recommend Dark Current Rising and actually recommend all of Ashley's books.
Detective Lane Sutherlin is a detective in Richmond. After an error on an arrest, she is given 30 days off to try to get her mind right. When she receives a cryptic phone message from her hometown of Tidewell, Va. She immediately returns to Tidewell to join the search for her best friend Addie. The first thing she finds when she returns to her family home is that her father has advanced dementia. Her father was once a well liked judge and she is upset that her brother didn't tell her about their father. These two major plot lines keep the story tense with surprises on every page. No one knows what happened to Addie -- even her own husband doesn't have a clue. Addie never liked him so he was the first person she wanted to investigate. The deeper she digs, the more In Tidewell, the past is never really past—and some secrets refuse to stay buried. Lane must untangle lies, face old enemies, and risk everything to bring the truth to light…even if it means becoming a target herself.
This well written novel was a real page turner and the characters were all well written. It was easy to like Lane who wanted desperately to find out what happened to Addie and at the same time deal with her father's dementia. She was a strong woman and was willing to take on the rich people in town to find the answers
Based on the first book of this new series, I can't wait for the next book! I highly recommend Dark Current Rising and actually recommend all of Ashley's books.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you Ashley Farley for the advance copy of the book in exchange of my honest review.
I ended this book feeling genuinely satisfied, especially the last quarter, which really delivered. While it did take me a little while to fully get into the story, once it clicked, I was completely invested and enjoying myself a lot.
The characters were well written, though I did not feel deeply connected to any of them. They worked for the story, but I personally found they lacked a bit of depth. That said, some of them definitely got a reaction out of me. Boone, in particular, was incredibly frustrating in a very intentional way, and Clay was arrogant and annoying. Those emotions were written very effectively.
At its core, this is a story about family, grief, and long buried secrets. These themes were woven together nicely, even if they were not especially subtle. The family dynamics felt believable overall, though a few plot points stretched things a little too far.
Ashley Farley’s writing style is straightforward and engaging, with a strong atmospheric quality. It can feel slightly repetitive at times, but the mood makes up for it, especially the small town setting, which creates a claustrophobic feeling, like everyone is watching and judging you.
The ending was extremely satisfying and left me wanting more. I would definitely read another book by this author, especially to see what happens next.
I would recommend Dark Current Rising to readers who are newer to thrillers and want something quick, accessible, and engaging.
I ended this book feeling genuinely satisfied, especially the last quarter, which really delivered. While it did take me a little while to fully get into the story, once it clicked, I was completely invested and enjoying myself a lot.
The characters were well written, though I did not feel deeply connected to any of them. They worked for the story, but I personally found they lacked a bit of depth. That said, some of them definitely got a reaction out of me. Boone, in particular, was incredibly frustrating in a very intentional way, and Clay was arrogant and annoying. Those emotions were written very effectively.
At its core, this is a story about family, grief, and long buried secrets. These themes were woven together nicely, even if they were not especially subtle. The family dynamics felt believable overall, though a few plot points stretched things a little too far.
Ashley Farley’s writing style is straightforward and engaging, with a strong atmospheric quality. It can feel slightly repetitive at times, but the mood makes up for it, especially the small town setting, which creates a claustrophobic feeling, like everyone is watching and judging you.
The ending was extremely satisfying and left me wanting more. I would definitely read another book by this author, especially to see what happens next.
I would recommend Dark Current Rising to readers who are newer to thrillers and want something quick, accessible, and engaging.
October 24, 2025
Ashley Farley delivers a gripping start to her new detective series with Dark Current Rising. Lane Sutherlin, a detective with the Richmond, Virginia police department, returns to her hometown of Tidewell after receiving a cryptic voicemail from her childhood best friend, Addie. Upon arrival, Lane discovers that Addie has mysteriously vanished — and no one, not even her husband, seems to know where she is.
As Lane dives into the investigation, she uncovers startling truths about Addie’s marriage and faces resistance at every turn. Addie’s husband proves especially obstructive, even going so far as to have an innocent person arrested. The deeper Lane digs, the more tangled the mystery becomes.
The story is packed with twists and emotional depth, including a poignant subplot involving Lane’s father, a once-revered judge now battling advanced dementia. Farley masterfully weaves suspense with heartfelt moments, keeping readers hooked from the first page to the last.
I’ve been a longtime fan of Ashley Farley’s southern fiction, and this novel is no exception. Her characters leap off the page — relatable, lovable, and richly drawn. If you haven’t explored her previous work, I highly recommend it. Dark Current Rising is a compelling introduction to what promises to be an unforgettable series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All comments and opinions are my own.
As Lane dives into the investigation, she uncovers startling truths about Addie’s marriage and faces resistance at every turn. Addie’s husband proves especially obstructive, even going so far as to have an innocent person arrested. The deeper Lane digs, the more tangled the mystery becomes.
The story is packed with twists and emotional depth, including a poignant subplot involving Lane’s father, a once-revered judge now battling advanced dementia. Farley masterfully weaves suspense with heartfelt moments, keeping readers hooked from the first page to the last.
I’ve been a longtime fan of Ashley Farley’s southern fiction, and this novel is no exception. Her characters leap off the page — relatable, lovable, and richly drawn. If you haven’t explored her previous work, I highly recommend it. Dark Current Rising is a compelling introduction to what promises to be an unforgettable series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All comments and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
PUBLISH DATE: Jan 06 2026
Dark Current Rising by Ashley Farley completely blew me away. From the very first sentence to the last, this book is fast paced, gripping, and incredibly well written. I was fully invested the entire time.
The character development is especially strong. The main characters feel real and layered, and they’re easy to care about almost immediately. The story balances tension and emotion beautifully, with just enough heart-wrenching moments to catch you off guard and make the stakes feel personal.
If I have one complaint, it’s this: I finished book one and immediately needed book two. This is an outstanding start to a series, and I cannot wait to see where it goes next.
Highly recommend this book, I absolutely couldn’t put this down and read it in one day.
Content note: This book contains very minimal profanity and no sexual content or nudity.
BOOK TITLE: Dark Current Rising
SERIES: The Sutherlin Files #1
AUTHOR: Ashley Farley
PUBLISHER: ARC provided by Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op
FORMAT: ebook
PAGES: 242
I received a complimentary digital ARC [Advanced Reader copy] of this book via NetGalley. Thank you to the Publisher and the Author for the opportunity to read and review this title prior to publication. As always, the opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Dark Current Rising by Ashley Farley completely blew me away. From the very first sentence to the last, this book is fast paced, gripping, and incredibly well written. I was fully invested the entire time.
The character development is especially strong. The main characters feel real and layered, and they’re easy to care about almost immediately. The story balances tension and emotion beautifully, with just enough heart-wrenching moments to catch you off guard and make the stakes feel personal.
If I have one complaint, it’s this: I finished book one and immediately needed book two. This is an outstanding start to a series, and I cannot wait to see where it goes next.
Highly recommend this book, I absolutely couldn’t put this down and read it in one day.
Content note: This book contains very minimal profanity and no sexual content or nudity.
BOOK TITLE: Dark Current Rising
SERIES: The Sutherlin Files #1
AUTHOR: Ashley Farley
PUBLISHER: ARC provided by Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op
FORMAT: ebook
PAGES: 242
I received a complimentary digital ARC [Advanced Reader copy] of this book via NetGalley. Thank you to the Publisher and the Author for the opportunity to read and review this title prior to publication. As always, the opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Dark Current Rising is tightly written, emotionally grounded, and completely absorbing. Ashley Farley’s prose is clean and confident, pulling you in from the first page and maintaining a steady, propulsive pace throughout. There’s no wasted space—every scene feels purposeful, every reveal earned.
What stands out most is how seamlessly Farley blends mystery with character-driven storytelling. The tension builds steadily, but it’s the emotional undercurrent that gives the story real weight. The characters feel layered and human, and the writing trusts the reader—never overwriting, never rushing, letting the most powerful moments land naturally.
This is the kind of book that sneaks up on you: sharp, gripping, and quietly devastating in places. I flew through it in a single day and finished it already desperate for the next installment. A strong, compelling start to a new series.
Thank you to Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op and the author for the ARC. All opinions are my own
What stands out most is how seamlessly Farley blends mystery with character-driven storytelling. The tension builds steadily, but it’s the emotional undercurrent that gives the story real weight. The characters feel layered and human, and the writing trusts the reader—never overwriting, never rushing, letting the most powerful moments land naturally.
This is the kind of book that sneaks up on you: sharp, gripping, and quietly devastating in places. I flew through it in a single day and finished it already desperate for the next installment. A strong, compelling start to a new series.
Thank you to Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op and the author for the ARC. All opinions are my own
October 24, 2025
This is Ashley's niche right here. The suspense had me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end. I read the last 20% at home alone in a quiet house with dogs who chose to bark at every noise they seemed to hear which kept freaking me out, normally my dogs are relatively quiet unless they can see neighbors outside.
The story moves at the perfect pace for you to feel every ounce of emotion these characters feel and to have enough pent up anger to want to make a difference in your own small towns when it comes to corruption. The corruption is terrifying and I'll never understand how people like that can look at themselves in the mirror every day. A job well done, Ashley. I'm already looking forward to book two.
Thank you to, Ashley Farley for trusting me as a beta reader and the opportunity to read these amazing stories you write for us. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The story moves at the perfect pace for you to feel every ounce of emotion these characters feel and to have enough pent up anger to want to make a difference in your own small towns when it comes to corruption. The corruption is terrifying and I'll never understand how people like that can look at themselves in the mirror every day. A job well done, Ashley. I'm already looking forward to book two.
Thank you to, Ashley Farley for trusting me as a beta reader and the opportunity to read these amazing stories you write for us. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 30, 2025
"Why can't love be enough? Why do we weigh ot down with expectations until it collapses under the strain?"
"Turns out, wanting more and getting more aren't always the same thing. And, sometimes, wanting more is exactly what gets you hurt."
"With all due respect, sir, dementia changes people. Strips them of their dignity. Twists them into someone else entirely. "
Ashley Farley has ventured into a new genre with Dark Tide Rising. Mystery and intrigue. Lane Sutherlin is a Richmond detective whose best friend Addie has disappeared. Kane goes home to Tidewell and gets more than she bargained for. While investigating Addie's disappearance, she discover widespread corruption in this small river town. In addition, her Dad's, a retired judge, is dealing with dementia. Ms. Farley has written a compelling novel with "real" characters. Thanks to the author for an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
"Turns out, wanting more and getting more aren't always the same thing. And, sometimes, wanting more is exactly what gets you hurt."
"With all due respect, sir, dementia changes people. Strips them of their dignity. Twists them into someone else entirely. "
Ashley Farley has ventured into a new genre with Dark Tide Rising. Mystery and intrigue. Lane Sutherlin is a Richmond detective whose best friend Addie has disappeared. Kane goes home to Tidewell and gets more than she bargained for. While investigating Addie's disappearance, she discover widespread corruption in this small river town. In addition, her Dad's, a retired judge, is dealing with dementia. Ms. Farley has written a compelling novel with "real" characters. Thanks to the author for an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
November 20, 2025
Dark Current Rising will keep you glued to the page as Richmond detective Lane Sutherlin races home to find her missing best friend. This story is packed with twists, layers, and unforgettable characters. On top of the investigation, Lane is also navigating the emotional weight of her father’s dementia — a retired judge whose sharp mind is slipping away.
Ashley Farley delivers another gripping tale that leaves you desperately wanting more. And thank goodness it’s a trilogy… because I’m not ready to let go of these characters yet!
Thank you Ashley for an another amazing story!
I received an advanced copy of this book. All of my comments are my own.
Ashley Farley delivers another gripping tale that leaves you desperately wanting more. And thank goodness it’s a trilogy… because I’m not ready to let go of these characters yet!
Thank you Ashley for an another amazing story!
I received an advanced copy of this book. All of my comments are my own.
December 11, 2025
Returning to her home town after learning that her best friend has disappeared, Detective Lane Sutherland is stunned to learn that her town is no longer idyllic as she remembers. Corruption is rampant and her loving father’s health seems to be declining. How can all this happening? Author, Ashley Farley, has written a new detective series featuring a strong willed detective, with a penchant to set things right as she goes against those who want nothing more than to destroy her and her town. I received an early copy of this compelling new series without remuneration from the author and this review is my personal opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ashley Farley is one of my favorite women's fiction, romance writer, cozy family stories and now detective stories. Ashley can't go wrong no matter what she writes. Dark Current Rising is a start of a new series that can't be missed. I just love Detective Lane Sutherlin. This is a well written page turner and leaves you wanting more. This has many layers of twists and turns and I can't wait to find out what will come to Lane next. Thank you for the ARC! This is a must read new series!
December 7, 2025
Lane is being stood down when her best friend Adie disappears..Lane returns home to search and finds much more than her friend’s disappearance. Navigating her father’s Alzheimer’s decline and uncovering the corruption runs deep in Tidewell, can Lane save Adie….you’ll have to read to find out! Loved this book, devoured it and can’t wait for Dark Current.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow, I don't normally read mysteries, but the fact that this is written by my favorite author intrigued me. What a great book. Not just mystery either. There was underlying tension between characters and maybe a hint of romance, and Scout, Addie's dog can't be forgotten!
Thank you Ashley for allowing me to read an ARC.
Thank you Ashley for allowing me to read an ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow! What an awesome story filled with suspense and intrigue! I tried to guess what would happen but I was mistaken. Great writing from author Ashley Farley. I received a complimentary copy of this book. No review was required.
December 20, 2025
Wow what a good book. I loved learning about the characters and there was a bunch of twists. At the end they leave you wanting more. Can't wait for the next one.
October 27, 2025
WOW! Dark Current Rising is the first book in Ashley Farley’s new detective series. The suspense and mystery kept me reading. I finished the book in one day. Did not want to put it down. I had to know what would happen next. Lane Sutherland is a detective in the Richmond, Virginia police department. She goes back to her hometown of Tidewell after receiving a mystifying voicemail from her best friend from Addie.
Addie has completely disappeared and seems no one has heard from her.
Lane starts to dig in for answers and the further she digs the more twisted things become.
The corruption in the small town is jaw dropping!
Lane also finds that her father is battling dementia and the family stress, emotions are so very relatable.
A gripping start to a series I can’t wait to continue reading.
I received an ARC prior to publication and decided to voluntarily review it.
Addie has completely disappeared and seems no one has heard from her.
Lane starts to dig in for answers and the further she digs the more twisted things become.
The corruption in the small town is jaw dropping!
Lane also finds that her father is battling dementia and the family stress, emotions are so very relatable.
A gripping start to a series I can’t wait to continue reading.
I received an ARC prior to publication and decided to voluntarily review it.
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December 23, 2025OMG,Ashley Farley does it again. New series, Lane Sunderland comes home to her home town to help find her best friend who is missing. All is not what it seems... can she find Addie? Local police are not what they were but she does get them to let her investigate. On leave from
the Richmond police force, she gets a badge to investigate. No spoilers from me but can't wait for book 2!
the Richmond police force, she gets a badge to investigate. No spoilers from me but can't wait for book 2!
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews