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Dark Current Rising
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.
Dark Current Rising is a character-driven coastal mystery, where emotional stakes run as deep as the investigation itself.
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.
Dark Current Rising is a character-driven coastal mystery, where emotional stakes run as deep as the investigation itself.
232 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 6, 2026
105 people are currently reading
2250 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
January 9, 2026
Dark Current Rising is my first book by Ashley Farley and it was phenomenal! Detective Lane Sutherlin hasn't been home to Tidewell, Virginia in a couple of years. She works in Richmond and is always too busy to get back. When her boss orders her to take some time off, she thinks about going back home. Lane's Dad called her several times overnight to tell her Addie is missing. Addie has been Lane's best friend for most of her life and she is worried. Addie wouldn't just run off. She's married, has a good job as a stylist in town, and is happy. Lane is going home to help with the search.
Lane realizes she has a voicemail from Addie and it's from last night She sounds scared and tells Lane she got herself in some trouble. The phone cuts out and that's all there is. Damn, Lane is angry with herself for turning off her phone last night. She goes to the last spot Addie's phone pinged hoping she can find something to help her locate Addie. Lane finds her dog and she's cold, hungry, and very happy to see Lane. The dog has been in the woods as her paws are covered with mud. There's no sign of Addie anywhere. Lane calls the police and Addie's husband. She ends up keeping the dog as Clay, the husband, says he's going to be too busy to take care of a dog.
As Lane heads to her childhood home where her father still lives, she's expecting him to be cooking a wonderful meal for them. Her Dad is a retired judge and loves to cook good meals. When Lane walks in there's no smells from the kitchen, her Dad seems surprised to see her, and his refrigerator is bare. It turns out no one informed Lane that her Dad has dementia and her brother is just ignoring the problem. Lane can't believe Addie is missing and her Dad is doing so poorly. She's going to have her hands full the next week or so. As Lane helps the sheriff to investigate Addie's disappearance, she makes people angry.
The town is very different than it used to be. There's a dark current running through it and there are people that don't want the truth about Addie to come out. Why? What did Addie stumble onto that someone wants to stay buried? Did it cost her her life or did she simply go into hiding? Lane is sure going to find out no matter who it upsets! I finished Dark Current Rising at 3 a.m. because I couldn't stop reading it! The pages fly by and the entire book is that way. If you like a thrilling mystery with lots going on, this is the book for you. I rate Dark Current Rising 5 stars with my highest recommendation and am already looking forward to the second book in the series. I'd like to thank NetGalley and AHF publishing for an advanced copy of Dark Current Rising in exchange for a fair review. #DarkCurrentRising
Lane realizes she has a voicemail from Addie and it's from last night She sounds scared and tells Lane she got herself in some trouble. The phone cuts out and that's all there is. Damn, Lane is angry with herself for turning off her phone last night. She goes to the last spot Addie's phone pinged hoping she can find something to help her locate Addie. Lane finds her dog and she's cold, hungry, and very happy to see Lane. The dog has been in the woods as her paws are covered with mud. There's no sign of Addie anywhere. Lane calls the police and Addie's husband. She ends up keeping the dog as Clay, the husband, says he's going to be too busy to take care of a dog.
As Lane heads to her childhood home where her father still lives, she's expecting him to be cooking a wonderful meal for them. Her Dad is a retired judge and loves to cook good meals. When Lane walks in there's no smells from the kitchen, her Dad seems surprised to see her, and his refrigerator is bare. It turns out no one informed Lane that her Dad has dementia and her brother is just ignoring the problem. Lane can't believe Addie is missing and her Dad is doing so poorly. She's going to have her hands full the next week or so. As Lane helps the sheriff to investigate Addie's disappearance, she makes people angry.
The town is very different than it used to be. There's a dark current running through it and there are people that don't want the truth about Addie to come out. Why? What did Addie stumble onto that someone wants to stay buried? Did it cost her her life or did she simply go into hiding? Lane is sure going to find out no matter who it upsets! I finished Dark Current Rising at 3 a.m. because I couldn't stop reading it! The pages fly by and the entire book is that way. If you like a thrilling mystery with lots going on, this is the book for you. I rate Dark Current Rising 5 stars with my highest recommendation and am already looking forward to the second book in the series. I'd like to thank NetGalley and AHF publishing for an advanced copy of Dark Current Rising in exchange for a fair review. #DarkCurrentRising
January 6, 2026
Detective Lane Sutherlin returns home to Tidewell, Virginia, for all the wrong reasons: a messy mix of career burnout, divorce and the disappearance of her childhood bff, Addie. But coming back home means facing a lot more than just a cold case. Her father, once a respected judge, is slipping into dementia, her family dynamics are crumbling and the town itself? Corrupt to the core.
Now, on paper, this sounds very, very good aaaand honestly, for a while, it was. I was totally into the small-town secrets, the toxic connections and the messy web of lies. I liked that we knew the culprit from page one, because the fun part was watching Lane try to connect all the dots and expose everyone involved (even though sometimes it felt a bit frustrating since everyone is protecting everyone..). And like I said, everything was good until... the ending. The pacing suddenly kicked into overdrive, and it felt kinda rushed and abrupt (if that's the right word...).
Still, Lane was a great lead and I really hope we get more of her. I want to see her actually clean up this corrupt town in book 2.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4★)
Thank you NetGalley & Victory Editing for the ARC!
December 30, 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 an early reader and the opportunity to read these amazing stories you write for us. Thank you to Netgalley for this ARC. 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 an early reader and the opportunity to read these amazing stories you write for us. Thank you to Netgalley for this ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 7, 2026
This book was an unexpected surprise! A recommendation from a friend that kept me captivated throughout.
Detective Lane returns to her hometown when her best friend goes missing. She is determined to solve the case and find those responsible. Her father, a retired judge, is in the beginning stages of dementia and Lane has just gone through a divorce herself.
This story had a small town vibe mixed with thriller/police investigation. As the town’s corruption comes to light, we are rooting for Lane to expose it all. Very quick easy read and looking forward to the next 2 books in the series.
Detective Lane returns to her hometown when her best friend goes missing. She is determined to solve the case and find those responsible. Her father, a retired judge, is in the beginning stages of dementia and Lane has just gone through a divorce herself.
This story had a small town vibe mixed with thriller/police investigation. As the town’s corruption comes to light, we are rooting for Lane to expose it all. Very quick easy read and looking forward to the next 2 books in the series.
January 2, 2026
OMG!! I loved this book and I’m so glad there will be two more in the series. April can’t come fast enough!!
January 25, 2026
Dark Current Rising is a fast-paced crime thriller that pulls you in from the very first chapter and doesn’t let go. Detective Lane Sutherlin is a strong, relatable lead—smart, stubborn, and driven.
The investigation starts with her missing childhood best friend. Can Lane find her? The investigation unfolds with a sense of tension as buried secrets and dangerous connections come to light
This book is part of a series. I can’t wait to read book
In this series.
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.
The investigation starts with her missing childhood best friend. Can Lane find her? The investigation unfolds with a sense of tension as buried secrets and dangerous connections come to light
This book is part of a series. I can’t wait to read book
In this series.
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.
January 10, 2026
Dark Current Rising is a character driven story set in the South. Lane is back in her home town putting her detective skills to work. Her best childhood friend Addie has been murdered and she leaves behind her faithful pup Scout.
So we have a female detective and a dog solving crimes. Talk about the perfect book!!! 🐾💕❤️
This is the first of a coming trilogy. I cannot wait for the next installment!!
So we have a female detective and a dog solving crimes. Talk about the perfect book!!! 🐾💕❤️
This is the first of a coming trilogy. I cannot wait for the next installment!!
January 7, 2026
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’s Dark Current Rising is the kind of book that grabs you by the collar with a missing woman and then quietly ruins your emotional stability while you’re not looking.
Independently published, and a huge thank you to Ashley Farley for my gifted ARC.
This story feels like returning to your hometown after years away and realizing the water still looks calm, but something ugly is definitely moving underneath the surface. Lane Sutherlin comes back to Tidewell, Virginia, not because she wants closure, but because her childhood best friend has vanished and no one seems nearly concerned enough about it. From the start, I loved that Lane isn’t a shiny, flawless detective. She’s bruised, stubborn, emotionally exhausted, and still stubbornly doing the right thing even when it costs her sleep, relationships, and peace of mind.
What really hooked me wasn’t just the mystery, though the disappearance of Addie is unsettling in the slow-burn, something-is-very-wrong way. It was the way Farley layers the emotional weight on top of the investigation. Lane is trying to untangle lies in a town that thrives on silence while also confronting her father’s dementia, a once-powerful judge slipping away piece by piece. Those scenes hit hard without ever feeling manipulative. They’re quiet, painful, and painfully real. I had to pause more than once, not because the pacing dragged, but because my heart needed a moment to catch up.
Tidewell itself deserves a special mention because it’s basically a character with a charming smile and a long criminal record. This is small-town life at its most claustrophobic. Everyone knows your business, everyone protects their own, and the people with the most power are often the ones with the most to hide. The corruption isn’t cartoonish. It’s subtle, infuriating, and disturbingly believable. I found myself getting genuinely angry on Lane’s behalf, which is always a good sign.
Farley’s writing is clean and confident, with a steady pace that never wastes your time. There’s tension on nearly every page, but it’s balanced with character moments that make you care deeply about the outcome. I also appreciated that the suspense doesn’t rely on gore or shock value. This is the kind of mystery that creeps under your skin and stays there, mostly because you can imagine it happening far too easily in real life.
“One thing this book makes painfully clear is that the past doesn’t stay buried, it waits.”
By the final quarter, I was completely locked in, ignoring responsibilities, snacks, and common sense because I needed answers. The ending is satisfying without being neat, and it does that dangerous thing where it gives you just enough closure to breathe while making it impossible not to want the next book immediately. This is very much a clear-your-calendar kind of read.
If you enjoy mysteries that blend emotional depth, morally messy characters, and small-town secrets that rot from the inside out, Dark Current Rising deserves your attention. It’s sharp, moody, and quietly devastating in the best possible way.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5 stars
#DarkCurrentRising #AshleyFarley #BookReview #MysteryBooks #CrimeFiction #SmallTownSecrets #DetectiveFiction #UpcomingBooks #Bookstagram #BookishReview
Independently published, and a huge thank you to Ashley Farley for my gifted ARC.
This story feels like returning to your hometown after years away and realizing the water still looks calm, but something ugly is definitely moving underneath the surface. Lane Sutherlin comes back to Tidewell, Virginia, not because she wants closure, but because her childhood best friend has vanished and no one seems nearly concerned enough about it. From the start, I loved that Lane isn’t a shiny, flawless detective. She’s bruised, stubborn, emotionally exhausted, and still stubbornly doing the right thing even when it costs her sleep, relationships, and peace of mind.
What really hooked me wasn’t just the mystery, though the disappearance of Addie is unsettling in the slow-burn, something-is-very-wrong way. It was the way Farley layers the emotional weight on top of the investigation. Lane is trying to untangle lies in a town that thrives on silence while also confronting her father’s dementia, a once-powerful judge slipping away piece by piece. Those scenes hit hard without ever feeling manipulative. They’re quiet, painful, and painfully real. I had to pause more than once, not because the pacing dragged, but because my heart needed a moment to catch up.
Tidewell itself deserves a special mention because it’s basically a character with a charming smile and a long criminal record. This is small-town life at its most claustrophobic. Everyone knows your business, everyone protects their own, and the people with the most power are often the ones with the most to hide. The corruption isn’t cartoonish. It’s subtle, infuriating, and disturbingly believable. I found myself getting genuinely angry on Lane’s behalf, which is always a good sign.
Farley’s writing is clean and confident, with a steady pace that never wastes your time. There’s tension on nearly every page, but it’s balanced with character moments that make you care deeply about the outcome. I also appreciated that the suspense doesn’t rely on gore or shock value. This is the kind of mystery that creeps under your skin and stays there, mostly because you can imagine it happening far too easily in real life.
“One thing this book makes painfully clear is that the past doesn’t stay buried, it waits.”
By the final quarter, I was completely locked in, ignoring responsibilities, snacks, and common sense because I needed answers. The ending is satisfying without being neat, and it does that dangerous thing where it gives you just enough closure to breathe while making it impossible not to want the next book immediately. This is very much a clear-your-calendar kind of read.
If you enjoy mysteries that blend emotional depth, morally messy characters, and small-town secrets that rot from the inside out, Dark Current Rising deserves your attention. It’s sharp, moody, and quietly devastating in the best possible way.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5 stars
#DarkCurrentRising #AshleyFarley #BookReview #MysteryBooks #CrimeFiction #SmallTownSecrets #DetectiveFiction #UpcomingBooks #Bookstagram #BookishReview
January 26, 2026
Dark Current Rising is one of those crime novels that pulls you in quietly at first, then tightens its grip with every chapter. Returning to Tidewell is the last thing Detective Lane Sutherlin wants, and that reluctance gives the whole story a wonderfully bittersweet edge. This isn’t just a missing‑person case—it’s a homecoming full of bruised memories, frayed relationships, and the kind of small‑town secrets that never stay buried for long.
Lane is a compelling lead. She’s sharp and determined, but there’s a tenderness to her that makes the emotional beats land just as strongly as the investigative ones. Watching her navigate her father’s decline, the tension with her brother, and the ghosts of her childhood adds a depth that lifts the story beyond a standard procedural. Tidewell itself feels like a character—polished on the surface, but with something murky swirling underneath.
The mystery around Addie’s disappearance is gripping from the start. As Lane digs into her friend’s life, the layers peel back to reveal a toxic marriage, whispered betrayals, and powerful men who are far too comfortable hiding behind their influence. The pacing is steady and deliberate, building a sense of unease that fits the setting perfectly. Every clue feels like it’s tugging Lane deeper into a place she thought she’d left behind.
What really stands out is the emotional resonance. The story balances tension with vulnerability, and the stakes feel personal in a way that makes the final revelations hit hard. By the time Lane realises she might be the next target, the danger feels real and earned.
Atmospheric, thoughtful, and quietly intense, Dark Current Rising is a compelling blend of character‑driven drama and small‑town suspense. A great pick for readers who enjoy mysteries with heart, grit, and a strong sense of place.
With thanks to Ashley Farley, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Lane is a compelling lead. She’s sharp and determined, but there’s a tenderness to her that makes the emotional beats land just as strongly as the investigative ones. Watching her navigate her father’s decline, the tension with her brother, and the ghosts of her childhood adds a depth that lifts the story beyond a standard procedural. Tidewell itself feels like a character—polished on the surface, but with something murky swirling underneath.
The mystery around Addie’s disappearance is gripping from the start. As Lane digs into her friend’s life, the layers peel back to reveal a toxic marriage, whispered betrayals, and powerful men who are far too comfortable hiding behind their influence. The pacing is steady and deliberate, building a sense of unease that fits the setting perfectly. Every clue feels like it’s tugging Lane deeper into a place she thought she’d left behind.
What really stands out is the emotional resonance. The story balances tension with vulnerability, and the stakes feel personal in a way that makes the final revelations hit hard. By the time Lane realises she might be the next target, the danger feels real and earned.
Atmospheric, thoughtful, and quietly intense, Dark Current Rising is a compelling blend of character‑driven drama and small‑town suspense. A great pick for readers who enjoy mysteries with heart, grit, and a strong sense of place.
With thanks to Ashley Farley, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
Dark Current Rising pulled me in quickly and kept me fully invested all the way through. The pacing was strong and steady, and the story unfolded in a way that made it easy to stay engaged without ever feeling bogged down. In fact, I was so absorbed that when the book ended, it genuinely caught me off guard—I hadn’t even realized I was at the conclusion yet, which speaks volumes about how immersive the reading experience was.
The novel centers around a return to a small Southern town where long-buried secrets, personal history, and simmering tensions begin to surface. As the story unfolds, layers of family dynamics, town politics, and moral gray areas are revealed, creating an atmosphere where it’s hard to know who can truly be trusted. The setting plays a big role here, with the sense that everyone knows everyone—and everyone is hiding something—adding to the tension and intrigue.
One element I don’t typically gravitate toward is the aging parent with Alzheimer’s trope. While it’s not my favorite, I could clearly see why it was necessary in this story. It added emotional weight and helped drive both character motivation and plot development, even if it was sometimes difficult to read. It felt purposeful rather than gratuitous, which I appreciated.
Some of the corruption woven into the storyline occasionally felt a bit over the top, but at the same time, what do I really know about the depths of small-town corruption? It didn’t pull me out of the story enough to detract from my overall enjoyment, and it certainly helped raise the stakes.
Overall, Dark Current Rising is a compelling, well-paced read with a strong storyline and enough unanswered questions to leave me wanting more. I’m definitely looking forward to picking up the second book and continuing the journey.
Dark Current Rising pulled me in quickly and kept me fully invested all the way through. The pacing was strong and steady, and the story unfolded in a way that made it easy to stay engaged without ever feeling bogged down. In fact, I was so absorbed that when the book ended, it genuinely caught me off guard—I hadn’t even realized I was at the conclusion yet, which speaks volumes about how immersive the reading experience was.
The novel centers around a return to a small Southern town where long-buried secrets, personal history, and simmering tensions begin to surface. As the story unfolds, layers of family dynamics, town politics, and moral gray areas are revealed, creating an atmosphere where it’s hard to know who can truly be trusted. The setting plays a big role here, with the sense that everyone knows everyone—and everyone is hiding something—adding to the tension and intrigue.
One element I don’t typically gravitate toward is the aging parent with Alzheimer’s trope. While it’s not my favorite, I could clearly see why it was necessary in this story. It added emotional weight and helped drive both character motivation and plot development, even if it was sometimes difficult to read. It felt purposeful rather than gratuitous, which I appreciated.
Some of the corruption woven into the storyline occasionally felt a bit over the top, but at the same time, what do I really know about the depths of small-town corruption? It didn’t pull me out of the story enough to detract from my overall enjoyment, and it certainly helped raise the stakes.
Overall, Dark Current Rising is a compelling, well-paced read with a strong storyline and enough unanswered questions to leave me wanting more. I’m definitely looking forward to picking up the second book and continuing the journey.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow! Don’t you just love it when an author you love writes a book in a new genre for them and knocks it out of the park? Especially when that genre is another of your favorites? Well, let me tell you that Ashley Farley wrote Dark Current Rising, the first book in the Sutherlin Files. It is a Crime Fiction and it was phenomenal! I think she did a fabulous job of creating the story line and the characters. There were a few twists in there that I did not see coming my way. I’m blown away that one of my favorite authors could veer off in another direction and make me love her books all the more.
Lane Sutherlin is a Detective and is headed to her hometown to look for her best friend Addie who has gone missing. Her father is a retired judge in the town and he is not quite himself these days. Lane had avoided telling anyone back home that she was recently divorced. I enjoyed meeting the new characters in this book. Some of them were those you would want as friends and some were part of the dark current that was under the surface of the town.
In case you haven’t noticed by now or you're new to me, I like a variety of genres and Crime, Mystery, Suspense and Thrillers are just a few. Ashley Farley writes a lot of Family Drama and Romance. I have to tell you that it was refreshing to see her voice in another genre that I love so much.
If you are like me and like a variety of books to read, I think you should give this one a try. She certainly didn’t flop at her first try at Crime Fiction! I definitely will be looking forward to the next two books in this trilogy. So, get this one for your nightstand before the next book comes out. Until next time…Happy Reading!
Don’t forget to support the authors you read by leaving a review. Even a few words help.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. The opinions I have expressed are my own and I was not required to write a review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Lane Sutherlin is a Detective and is headed to her hometown to look for her best friend Addie who has gone missing. Her father is a retired judge in the town and he is not quite himself these days. Lane had avoided telling anyone back home that she was recently divorced. I enjoyed meeting the new characters in this book. Some of them were those you would want as friends and some were part of the dark current that was under the surface of the town.
In case you haven’t noticed by now or you're new to me, I like a variety of genres and Crime, Mystery, Suspense and Thrillers are just a few. Ashley Farley writes a lot of Family Drama and Romance. I have to tell you that it was refreshing to see her voice in another genre that I love so much.
If you are like me and like a variety of books to read, I think you should give this one a try. She certainly didn’t flop at her first try at Crime Fiction! I definitely will be looking forward to the next two books in this trilogy. So, get this one for your nightstand before the next book comes out. Until next time…Happy Reading!
Don’t forget to support the authors you read by leaving a review. Even a few words help.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. The opinions I have expressed are my own and I was not required to write a review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
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.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Detective Lane Sutherlin has returned to her home town, but not because she wanted to, but because circumstances from her job in the big city has put her on leave and also because her best friend has gone missing and someone in the small town of Tidwell, Virginia knows where she is and why she went missing and the secrets in her small home town keep coming out of the wood work.
Lane puts her detective skills to work and will do everything to find Addie and as she does, secrets in her own family come to the surface and she might have to face that the man she loved and respects the most in the world, her father, may just be responsible for the fate of Addie.
The men of this town think they can push her away from the truth and out of the town, but lane is stronger than they even know and will leave nothing to chance and find the truth no matter what the personal cost to her.
This Ashely Farley at her best brining us the very heart of her stories. She gives the reader, lots of small town drama, suspense and brings it all together with strong women who are not brought down by the people who mean them harm, who are loyal and have heart and soul of a warrior. This first book in the series is impactful and griping and I can't wait for the next book in the series to find out what happens next in the life of Detective Lane Sutherlin and the town of Tidwell, Virginia and all it's secrets.
I received a free copy of this book via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Lane puts her detective skills to work and will do everything to find Addie and as she does, secrets in her own family come to the surface and she might have to face that the man she loved and respects the most in the world, her father, may just be responsible for the fate of Addie.
The men of this town think they can push her away from the truth and out of the town, but lane is stronger than they even know and will leave nothing to chance and find the truth no matter what the personal cost to her.
This Ashely Farley at her best brining us the very heart of her stories. She gives the reader, lots of small town drama, suspense and brings it all together with strong women who are not brought down by the people who mean them harm, who are loyal and have heart and soul of a warrior. This first book in the series is impactful and griping and I can't wait for the next book in the series to find out what happens next in the life of Detective Lane Sutherlin and the town of Tidwell, Virginia and all it's secrets.
I received a free copy of this book via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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.
January 6, 2026
Whoa! The storyline of Dark Current Rising is Ashley going to a whole new place. It's really a different type of book from her other stories—more dark and dramatic—but still full of wonderful characters, which is what she does best. I loved every minute of it and am so excited that there will be more books in this series.
Lane goes back home to help find her missing friend, but then finds a whole lot more than she bargained for. There is so much more going on than just the issues with the disappearance of Addie. Suddenly she finds herself in the midst of the 'old guard' vs. the 'good guys'.
I love this darker side of Ashley's story telling. And of course, there has to be family drama mixed in. Lane finds out that her father is slipping into the world of dementia so she has all of that to deal with as well. This struck a personal cord for me and I appreciate that Ashley incorporated a bit of her personal experiences into the story.
Coming to the end of the book left me with a huge desire for more and yay!, there will be more to the life of Lane, with a possible romance in the making, maybe? Who knows? I know I'm excited to read more! I highly recommend Dark Current Rising!
Lane goes back home to help find her missing friend, but then finds a whole lot more than she bargained for. There is so much more going on than just the issues with the disappearance of Addie. Suddenly she finds herself in the midst of the 'old guard' vs. the 'good guys'.
I love this darker side of Ashley's story telling. And of course, there has to be family drama mixed in. Lane finds out that her father is slipping into the world of dementia so she has all of that to deal with as well. This struck a personal cord for me and I appreciate that Ashley incorporated a bit of her personal experiences into the story.
Coming to the end of the book left me with a huge desire for more and yay!, there will be more to the life of Lane, with a possible romance in the making, maybe? Who knows? I know I'm excited to read more! I highly recommend Dark Current Rising!
January 24, 2026
Dark Current Rising pulled me in way faster than I expected. I went in thinking I was getting a straightforward mystery, but this one turned out to be very character-driven, emotional, and layered with small-town secrets that slowly unravel.
I really liked following Lane as she’s forced back into her hometown under terrible circumstances. There’s so much history there - old friendships, unresolved trauma, family tension and it all seeps into the investigation. The town itself almost feels like its own character, with that coastal, slightly eerie vibe where everyone knows everyone… and everyone is hiding something.
The multiple POVs worked well for me and kept the story moving without feeling confusing. I liked seeing different sides of the mystery and how each perspective added another piece to the puzzle. The pacing was steady, not rushed, and the suspense built gradually instead of relying on shock value.
This isn’t an over the top thriller, it’s more of a slow burn mystery with emotional weight, and I appreciated that. By the end, I was fully invested and definitely interested in continuing the series to see where Lane’s story goes next.
If you like mysteries with strong female leads, small-town drama, and a darker, moody atmosphere, this one is worth picking up.
I really liked following Lane as she’s forced back into her hometown under terrible circumstances. There’s so much history there - old friendships, unresolved trauma, family tension and it all seeps into the investigation. The town itself almost feels like its own character, with that coastal, slightly eerie vibe where everyone knows everyone… and everyone is hiding something.
The multiple POVs worked well for me and kept the story moving without feeling confusing. I liked seeing different sides of the mystery and how each perspective added another piece to the puzzle. The pacing was steady, not rushed, and the suspense built gradually instead of relying on shock value.
This isn’t an over the top thriller, it’s more of a slow burn mystery with emotional weight, and I appreciated that. By the end, I was fully invested and definitely interested in continuing the series to see where Lane’s story goes next.
If you like mysteries with strong female leads, small-town drama, and a darker, moody atmosphere, this one is worth picking up.
Review of advance copy received from Author
SENSATIONAL SUSPENSE ON EVERY PAGE!
Author Ashley Farley, branching out from her usual genre, delivers a gripping start to her new series with “Dark Current Rising”. This suspenseful novel is full of mayhem, malice, and murder that will keep you on the edge of your seat from the first page to the last. I loved how fast-paced and entertaining it was, thought-provoking too, as I raced to solve the mystery. Detective Lane Sutherlin is a character you’ll want to get to know better: a woman of unwavering integrity, resilience, and character, who stands tall despite every obstacle.
Lane’s return to Tidewell, VA, is filled with revelations. Her father’s decline into dementia is just the beginning. She uncovers that her missing childhood best friend, Addie’s, marriage was a facade, built on lies. It’s up to Lane to prove her suspicions, mainly because no one else seems willing to believe her. But she soon learns there may be more than one target. Can she rise to the challenge and crack the case?
I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the author and publisher, and my opinions are without influence.
Author Ashley Farley, branching out from her usual genre, delivers a gripping start to her new series with “Dark Current Rising”. This suspenseful novel is full of mayhem, malice, and murder that will keep you on the edge of your seat from the first page to the last. I loved how fast-paced and entertaining it was, thought-provoking too, as I raced to solve the mystery. Detective Lane Sutherlin is a character you’ll want to get to know better: a woman of unwavering integrity, resilience, and character, who stands tall despite every obstacle.
Lane’s return to Tidewell, VA, is filled with revelations. Her father’s decline into dementia is just the beginning. She uncovers that her missing childhood best friend, Addie’s, marriage was a facade, built on lies. It’s up to Lane to prove her suspicions, mainly because no one else seems willing to believe her. But she soon learns there may be more than one target. Can she rise to the challenge and crack the case?
I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the author and publisher, and my opinions are without influence.
January 25, 2026
With a recently divorced, embittered, and mentally struggling detective returning to her small seaside hometown to search for her missing childhood best friend, Dark Current Rising has all the makings of a gripping mystery.
However, even with Farley’s ability to vividly put her reader into the small southern town, her characters’ dialogue and interactions kept pushing me out of the story.
Mystery, intrigue, and a great set-up for the unraveling of this town’s skeletons are definitely there, but the events of the story, at times, seemed to be a little over the top and unrealistic. Perhaps I watch too much true crime for my own good, but the investigative process seemed a bit wonky in places that had me yelling out loud “that can’t happen!”
With that said, I do believe readers who want a multi layered mystery, building towards a series of characters for books to come will enjoy this book. Despite my negativity, this story does have heart, a strong female lead, and a fight against corruption of the “old guard” in a town that reminds me of a southern version of The Gilmore Girls sleepy Connecticut home, pumpkin spice and all.
However, even with Farley’s ability to vividly put her reader into the small southern town, her characters’ dialogue and interactions kept pushing me out of the story.
Mystery, intrigue, and a great set-up for the unraveling of this town’s skeletons are definitely there, but the events of the story, at times, seemed to be a little over the top and unrealistic. Perhaps I watch too much true crime for my own good, but the investigative process seemed a bit wonky in places that had me yelling out loud “that can’t happen!”
With that said, I do believe readers who want a multi layered mystery, building towards a series of characters for books to come will enjoy this book. Despite my negativity, this story does have heart, a strong female lead, and a fight against corruption of the “old guard” in a town that reminds me of a southern version of The Gilmore Girls sleepy Connecticut home, pumpkin spice and all.
January 2, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC of Dark Current Rising by Ashley Farley.
Detective Lane Sutherlin returns to her hometown to investigate the disappearance of her childhood friend Addie, only to discover that everyone is more interested in keeping secrets than finding answers. What starts as a missing person case becomes darker and far more unsettling.
Lane’s character feels realistic and the exploration of her history alongside the pressures of the investigation was very thought provoking. Her relationship with her father, and the impact of his declining health, adds genuine depth. The small town setting is particularly well done, with its surface respectability masking resentment, corruption and long held grudges. The mystery kept me fully engaged and by the end I was completely invested in both Lane and the wider series.
A gripping, character driven thriller with a real sense of place and emotional weight. An easy five stars and I will definitely be continuing with this series.
Detective Lane Sutherlin returns to her hometown to investigate the disappearance of her childhood friend Addie, only to discover that everyone is more interested in keeping secrets than finding answers. What starts as a missing person case becomes darker and far more unsettling.
Lane’s character feels realistic and the exploration of her history alongside the pressures of the investigation was very thought provoking. Her relationship with her father, and the impact of his declining health, adds genuine depth. The small town setting is particularly well done, with its surface respectability masking resentment, corruption and long held grudges. The mystery kept me fully engaged and by the end I was completely invested in both Lane and the wider series.
A gripping, character driven thriller with a real sense of place and emotional weight. An easy five stars and I will definitely be continuing with this series.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thanks to Ashley Farley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-Op for their ARC of Dark Current Rising!
If you’re looking for a fast paced crime mystery then Dark Current Rising is it. Set in a small town Detective Lane Sutherline returns home to investigate the disappearance of her childhood best friend, Addie. Amongst the chaos of the case where she meets threats and challenges at every turn, Lane also learns of her father’s dementia. While facing these challenges she will stop at nothing to unravel the truth but at what cost.
I could not put this book down, and with a cheeky one year old at home this is hard to achieve! The story jumped into action right away and the plot developed at a great pace. I kept wanting to know what was going to happen next and it kept me guessing how it was going to end. I am thrilled to know it is first in a series and can’t wait for the next book!
#NetGalley #DarkCurrentRising #AshleyFarley #BookReview #MysteryBooks #CrimeFiction #SmallTownSecrets #DetectiveFiction #UpcomingBooks #Bookstagram
If you’re looking for a fast paced crime mystery then Dark Current Rising is it. Set in a small town Detective Lane Sutherline returns home to investigate the disappearance of her childhood best friend, Addie. Amongst the chaos of the case where she meets threats and challenges at every turn, Lane also learns of her father’s dementia. While facing these challenges she will stop at nothing to unravel the truth but at what cost.
I could not put this book down, and with a cheeky one year old at home this is hard to achieve! The story jumped into action right away and the plot developed at a great pace. I kept wanting to know what was going to happen next and it kept me guessing how it was going to end. I am thrilled to know it is first in a series and can’t wait for the next book!
#NetGalley #DarkCurrentRising #AshleyFarley #BookReview #MysteryBooks #CrimeFiction #SmallTownSecrets #DetectiveFiction #UpcomingBooks #Bookstagram
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
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I read this as an ARC, and overall, Dark Current Rising was an enjoyable read with a lot of potential. I really liked the characters and the setting—they were engaging, and I found myself invested in what would happen to them. The story definitely kept my attention and made me want answers.
That said, I did find myself confused at times because the pacing moved very quickly. The plot jumped from moment to moment without always giving enough breathing room, and I wished the author had spent a bit more time fleshing things out. Because of that, the story felt a little jumpy in places.
The story has a very fast-paced, almost cinematic feel, but it often relies on sudden moments meant to surprise the reader rather than fully developed tension. Those moments didn’t always land for me, though readers who enjoy shock-driven storytelling may feel differently. While it wasn’t a perfect fit for me, I still think many readers will find it entertaining.
That said, I did find myself confused at times because the pacing moved very quickly. The plot jumped from moment to moment without always giving enough breathing room, and I wished the author had spent a bit more time fleshing things out. Because of that, the story felt a little jumpy in places.
The story has a very fast-paced, almost cinematic feel, but it often relies on sudden moments meant to surprise the reader rather than fully developed tension. Those moments didn’t always land for me, though readers who enjoy shock-driven storytelling may feel differently. While it wasn’t a perfect fit for me, I still think many readers will find it entertaining.
Review of advance copy received from Author
✨️ Thrilling and twisty with unsettling plotline.
From the very first page, it was gripping and unputdownable. Lane is a fantastic character, a smart and brave detective. Her connection with her father and the bond they shared is deeply felt. It was heartbreaking to read about her father and Lane’s worries regarding his safety. We got to know about their tragic loss years ago.
The tension keeps getting intense, and fast-paced chapters added the exciting suspense buildup. It's on the edge type of thriller with one mystery after another throughout the end.
The muders, with evidence of a high level corruption is terrifying, and the book ends with a shocking cliffhanger. I am eager to read the next book, but I have to wait a few months.
A new author to add to your tbr.
Thanks so much to the author and Joyce for the eARC.
From the very first page, it was gripping and unputdownable. Lane is a fantastic character, a smart and brave detective. Her connection with her father and the bond they shared is deeply felt. It was heartbreaking to read about her father and Lane’s worries regarding his safety. We got to know about their tragic loss years ago.
The tension keeps getting intense, and fast-paced chapters added the exciting suspense buildup. It's on the edge type of thriller with one mystery after another throughout the end.
The muders, with evidence of a high level corruption is terrifying, and the book ends with a shocking cliffhanger. I am eager to read the next book, but I have to wait a few months.
A new author to add to your tbr.
Thanks so much to the author and Joyce for the eARC.
January 6, 2026
Judging by other early reviews, mine may be an outlier, but I found Farley's story good, not great. While the plot is certainly true to life in that it exposes how easily people and places can be consumed by corruption, so much of the story felt equal parts familiar and over-the-top. Lane is the passionate and stubborn detective whose personal and professional issues have her rethinking her life and her career. She returns home to search for a friend who's gone missing, and suddenly, readers get plunged into a world filled with organized crime, old secrets, paternity tests, and car chases. While this all sounds intriguing, the writing stays too surface-level to make any of the characters or situations feel real or unique. I'm glad so many other readers enjoyed it, but this one wasn't for me.
Thanks to Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Thanks to Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
January 7, 2026
One of my favorite Southern women's fiction novelist, Ashley Farley, has written a small town suspense mystery novel, Dark Current Rising. What an amazing, couldn't put down read this book was!
The main character, Lane, is an accomplished detective who comes back to her hometown, Tidewell, Virginia, when her best childhood friend, Addie leaves her a voicemail and then vanishes into thin air. Lane with the help of Addie's dog, Scout delves into the mystery of where Addie disappeared to and turns up old secrets and lies of some of the townspeople in power with running the town. What happens is an outstanding start to a great series.
A very riveting, suspenseful detective mystery novel, Dark Current Rising, is well worth a reader's time!
The main character, Lane, is an accomplished detective who comes back to her hometown, Tidewell, Virginia, when her best childhood friend, Addie leaves her a voicemail and then vanishes into thin air. Lane with the help of Addie's dog, Scout delves into the mystery of where Addie disappeared to and turns up old secrets and lies of some of the townspeople in power with running the town. What happens is an outstanding start to a great series.
A very riveting, suspenseful detective mystery novel, Dark Current Rising, is well worth a reader's time!
January 14, 2026
This is my first book by this author, and I found the story intriguing. I enjoy books that follow a detective on the right side of the law, who is doing everything possible to take down the bad guys, and Lane was a great protagonist. I enjoyed reading about her family as well as the town of Tidewell. The author left the story hanging at just the right spot to make the reader want to keep going to see how it all works out. There were a few times where I felt there were holes in the story. Hopefully, those holes will be filled in as the saga continues in the next book! This was my first netgalley read and it definitely held my attention from the beginning to the end!
Thank you to Netgalley for sharing a copy of this book!
Thank you to Netgalley for sharing a copy of this book!
January 18, 2026
I LOVED this book! Farley did a great job conveying small town southern living! everything looks so bucolic and lovely, everyone is so polite, but just below the surface..."oh what a tangled web we weave!" Living in small town FL, I felt the immediate hug of home! The story was fast and gripping and I can't wait to read the rest of the trilogy! The only reason it kept me from a 5 star review is that I wished I could've gotten a deeper dive into Detective Sutherlin, I yearned to know her (and Addie, and her father and her brother) better! That being said, Sutherlin's intuition into others while giving little of herself is what my mind expects from a detective character so it worked! EXACTLY the escape I needed!!
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.
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