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Rose Dhu: A Novel
A highly regarded surgeon has gone missing. Will the search for her whereabouts tear a community apart?
Dr. Janie O’Connor’s disappearance from her Savannah estate, Rose Dhu, has shocked the town to its core. Her former fiancé, Phillip Carruthers—once the most eligible bachelor in coastal Georgia and the playboy son of Savannah’s most powerful billionaire family—is the prime suspect.
Phillip maintains his innocence and seems to have an airtight alibi, and the case has local police stumped. But Detective Frank Winger, who has his own personal connection to Janie’s family, is determined to discover what happened . . . as long as false witnesses, evidence tampering, and ghosts from his past don’t get in the way.
When back-door dealings and long-forgotten enemies reveal themselves, will Frank be able to distinguish fact from fiction to figure out what happened to Janie? Or will her whereabouts stay shrouded in the shadows of Savannah’s live oaks?
Dr. Janie O’Connor’s disappearance from her Savannah estate, Rose Dhu, has shocked the town to its core. Her former fiancé, Phillip Carruthers—once the most eligible bachelor in coastal Georgia and the playboy son of Savannah’s most powerful billionaire family—is the prime suspect.
Phillip maintains his innocence and seems to have an airtight alibi, and the case has local police stumped. But Detective Frank Winger, who has his own personal connection to Janie’s family, is determined to discover what happened . . . as long as false witnesses, evidence tampering, and ghosts from his past don’t get in the way.
When back-door dealings and long-forgotten enemies reveal themselves, will Frank be able to distinguish fact from fiction to figure out what happened to Janie? Or will her whereabouts stay shrouded in the shadows of Savannah’s live oaks?
318 pages, Paperback
Published January 20, 2026
38 people are currently reading
107 people want to read
About the author
Mark Murphy
3 books49 followersMark Murphy has been a doctor since 1988.
He has been a writer his entire life.
After spending his early childhood reading anything he could get his hands on and roaming the marshes and maritime forests of coastal Georgia--where he collected myriad seashells, arrowheads, and fossils and fancied himself a swashbuckler of the highest order--Mark entered the creative literary world by winning a local poetry contest in the fifth grade. Later that year, he wrote, directed, and starred in his own play about the signing of the Declaration of Independence and started his own self-published classroom newspaper.
It was the high-water mark for Murphy's elementary school literary career.
In high school, Mark continued to write. He served as the high school newspaper's editor and won a few awards for his editorials, critical reviews, short stories, and poetry. He also attempted several times to start a novel. Alas, those attempts went nowhere, rarely making it beyond the first chapter--or the next call from his girlfriend, who was far more interesting than anything he could write about.
When he enrolled at the University of Georgia as a journalism major, he seemed destined for a literary career.
But he loved science. And he missed science.
Mark changed majors to Zoology with plans of becoming a marine biologist, like Jacques Cousteau. He even spent the better part of a year doing marine biology research. A good bit of that time involved tossing about on the Atlantic in a converted shrimp trawler that had once been used as a drug-smuggling boat, a leaky vessel that stank of diesel and dead fish. It was this experience that made him realize he did not want to be the next Jacques Cousteau (or the first, for that matter). Instead, he decided to follow in his father's footsteps and go to medical school.
After graduating from the University of Georgia as a First Honor Graduate, with a 4.0 GPA, Mark enrolled at the Medical College of Georgia. After receiving his M.D., he moved on to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill to begin his Internal Medicine residency. Mark's training at UNC was filled with interesting experiences; he took care of a dying sitcom star, a fallen televangelist, several corrupt politicians, and a serial killer while in Chapel Hill. He began to realize that medicine afforded physicians with a unique perspective into peoples' lives --an observation that would serve him well later.
Continuing his training in Chapel Hill as a Fellow in gastroenterology, Mark wrote several book chapters and academic articles--but his creative writing muse had withered away to nothing.
In 1994, Mark returned to his hometown of Savannah, Georgia, to start the practice that would ultimately become the largest gastroenterology group in South Georgia.
The untimely death of Mark's friend, Lisa Erickson, led him to write a short story, "The Funeral," as a gift for her husband. This story was published in a collection of short stories in 2004. For the past 15 years, he has written a regular opinion column for his hometown newspaper, the Savannah Morning News, and in 2021 won the Georgia Press Association's Otis Brumby Award as the top Op-Ed columnist in Georgia.
In 2012, Mark decided to tackle writing a novel once more. The result was "The Shadow Man," his first novel. "The Curse of the Thrax," his second novel, was published in 2014.
Mark lives in Savannah
He has been a writer his entire life.
After spending his early childhood reading anything he could get his hands on and roaming the marshes and maritime forests of coastal Georgia--where he collected myriad seashells, arrowheads, and fossils and fancied himself a swashbuckler of the highest order--Mark entered the creative literary world by winning a local poetry contest in the fifth grade. Later that year, he wrote, directed, and starred in his own play about the signing of the Declaration of Independence and started his own self-published classroom newspaper.
It was the high-water mark for Murphy's elementary school literary career.
In high school, Mark continued to write. He served as the high school newspaper's editor and won a few awards for his editorials, critical reviews, short stories, and poetry. He also attempted several times to start a novel. Alas, those attempts went nowhere, rarely making it beyond the first chapter--or the next call from his girlfriend, who was far more interesting than anything he could write about.
When he enrolled at the University of Georgia as a journalism major, he seemed destined for a literary career.
But he loved science. And he missed science.
Mark changed majors to Zoology with plans of becoming a marine biologist, like Jacques Cousteau. He even spent the better part of a year doing marine biology research. A good bit of that time involved tossing about on the Atlantic in a converted shrimp trawler that had once been used as a drug-smuggling boat, a leaky vessel that stank of diesel and dead fish. It was this experience that made him realize he did not want to be the next Jacques Cousteau (or the first, for that matter). Instead, he decided to follow in his father's footsteps and go to medical school.
After graduating from the University of Georgia as a First Honor Graduate, with a 4.0 GPA, Mark enrolled at the Medical College of Georgia. After receiving his M.D., he moved on to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill to begin his Internal Medicine residency. Mark's training at UNC was filled with interesting experiences; he took care of a dying sitcom star, a fallen televangelist, several corrupt politicians, and a serial killer while in Chapel Hill. He began to realize that medicine afforded physicians with a unique perspective into peoples' lives --an observation that would serve him well later.
Continuing his training in Chapel Hill as a Fellow in gastroenterology, Mark wrote several book chapters and academic articles--but his creative writing muse had withered away to nothing.
In 1994, Mark returned to his hometown of Savannah, Georgia, to start the practice that would ultimately become the largest gastroenterology group in South Georgia.
The untimely death of Mark's friend, Lisa Erickson, led him to write a short story, "The Funeral," as a gift for her husband. This story was published in a collection of short stories in 2004. For the past 15 years, he has written a regular opinion column for his hometown newspaper, the Savannah Morning News, and in 2021 won the Georgia Press Association's Otis Brumby Award as the top Op-Ed columnist in Georgia.
In 2012, Mark decided to tackle writing a novel once more. The result was "The Shadow Man," his first novel. "The Curse of the Thrax," his second novel, was published in 2014.
Mark lives in Savannah
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
March 4, 2026
This was a great murder mystery. I flew through it. Dr. Janie O'Connor is a surgeon who disappears from her Savannah estate, Rose Dhu. Her fiance, Phillip, who is the playboy son of one of Georgia's most powerful billionaire families, is the prime suspect, and maintains his innocence. Detective Frank Winger is on the case, and also has connections to Jamie's family. I thought this was such a twisty and fast paced read. I loved the atmospheric, gothic vibes, and the mystery kept me guessing. I was rooting for Detective Winger to solve the case and loved getting this story from his perspective! I really enjoyed reading this and would definitely read more by this author in the future.
Thank you to the publisher, author, and Suzy approved book tours for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to the publisher, author, and Suzy approved book tours for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
February 14, 2026
Addictive, but I am not sure if it was due to it being a murder mystery in my city or if it was truly good. Regardless, this hit like crack.
March 22, 2026
ROSE DHU was a cool police procedural that takes place in Savannah, Georgia. This is a place that I have visited many times and I have a strong connection with. This setting made the story come alive for me. I was thoroughly entertained by the author’s excellent writing. He kept me guessing throughout the story! Highly recommended!
Many thanks to Mark Murphy for my gifted copy.
This review will be shared to my Instagram account (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the future.
Many thanks to Mark Murphy for my gifted copy.
This review will be shared to my Instagram account (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the future.
January 17, 2026
Rose Dhu by Mark Murphy. Thanks to the author for the gifted copy ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Dr. Janie O’Connor’s disappearance has shocked Savannah, especially since she was engaged to famous playboy, Phillip Carruthers, who maintains his innocence. Detective Frank Winger is on the case, despite having his own connection to Janie’s family.
I read this one in one day, despite being over 350 pages. It went by super fast. I don’t always love stories from the detective’s perspective, but I got behind this one right away. There were several twists that I was not expecting. One was shocking, and the other was insanely shocking. I really enjoyed this one.
“The Carruthers organizations values loyalty, but it’s a species of loyalty largely driven by fear. It reminds me of The Sopranos.”
Read this if you like:
-Savannah setting
-Take down of evil family empires
-Detective perspective
-Shocking twists
Rose Dhu comes out 1/20.
Dr. Janie O’Connor’s disappearance has shocked Savannah, especially since she was engaged to famous playboy, Phillip Carruthers, who maintains his innocence. Detective Frank Winger is on the case, despite having his own connection to Janie’s family.
I read this one in one day, despite being over 350 pages. It went by super fast. I don’t always love stories from the detective’s perspective, but I got behind this one right away. There were several twists that I was not expecting. One was shocking, and the other was insanely shocking. I really enjoyed this one.
“The Carruthers organizations values loyalty, but it’s a species of loyalty largely driven by fear. It reminds me of The Sopranos.”
Read this if you like:
-Savannah setting
-Take down of evil family empires
-Detective perspective
-Shocking twists
Rose Dhu comes out 1/20.
February 4, 2026
I thoroughly enjoyed this atmospheric, page turner! The setting, in and around Savannah, is richly described and almost a character in itself. Detective Frank Winger is a compelling, and doggedly determined protagonist with lots of heart and reflection. The cinematic and easygoing prose made this a fast paced story that I couldn't look away from. Had I started reading this earlier in the evening it would have easily been a one sitting read. The themes of the power that comes with wealth, family secrets, love and redemption are expertly woven into the fabric of the story. If you like procedurals that have twists you didn't see coming and turns that make you stop and think, I highly recommend this entertaining novel.
Thank you to the author, Girl Friday Books and Suzy Approved Book Tours for the gifted copy and including me on this tour.
Thank you to the author, Girl Friday Books and Suzy Approved Book Tours for the gifted copy and including me on this tour.
January 20, 2026
I liked the setting of Savannah because it can be sunny and bright but also sinister and dark.
Frank was a compelling figure and I cheered him on as he cranked out the effort to hunt down the missing doc.
I did like the grisly and grotesque aspect of some scenes because it’s the shock value and it also makes people question what would do I that was me?
A thriller on the Deep South that is sure to set tongues wagging!
Thanks Mark Murphy girlfridayproductions and PR by the book for the advance copy
Frank was a compelling figure and I cheered him on as he cranked out the effort to hunt down the missing doc.
I did like the grisly and grotesque aspect of some scenes because it’s the shock value and it also makes people question what would do I that was me?
A thriller on the Deep South that is sure to set tongues wagging!
Thanks Mark Murphy girlfridayproductions and PR by the book for the advance copy
February 21, 2026
G.K. Chesterton, creator of the early 20th-century fictional priest-detective Father Brown, explained: "The essence of a mystery tale is that we are suddenly confronted with a truth we never suspected and yet can see to be true." Fool me, a reader hopes, but fool me fairly.
The mystery reader’s page-by-page effort to parse motive must be rewarded by a conclusion that surprises just as it satisfies. The revelation at novel’s end should feel logical after the fact, even if unforeseen before it. That’s a tricky balance, one that Mark E. Murphy pulls off with his new crime thriller ROSE DHU.
ROSE DHU, set in Savannah, GA – humid, hierarchical, and haunted by secrets that refuse to stay buried – follows a cast of vividly drawn characters. At its center is police detective Frank Winger. War veteran and widower, Winger drives a battered Hyundai, wears vintage Eagles t-shirts with cowboy boots. He’s an outsider, an unremarkable presence in his community, and he prefers it that way, since being nondescript makes detection more effective.
Winger smokes weed to exorcise guilt that dogs him at night, but on the job, he’s a bloodhound and compulsive list-maker. When Janie O’Connor, a revered surgeon with intimate ties to Savannah’s elite, fails to show up for her morning procedures, Winger is assigned the missing persons case. In no time he’s drawn into a knotty tangle of corruption and violence. Complicating the investigation is Winger’s physical attraction to a possible suspect – the vanished doctor’s “luminous, almost transparent” emotionally fragile sister. Acting on his desire would violate his sworn oath and compromise his search for the truth.
At the core of ROSE DHU is: who would want to harm Janie O’Connor? She’s a young doctor universally esteemed by colleagues and patients alike. Janie has never failed – academically, athletically or professionally. Known at work for her discipline, reliability, and razor-sharp intellect, she charts her life with the same steely resolve that she brings to the surgical theater. Control is her element. Dr. O’Connor, “ice-water in her veins,” is not the sort to miscalculate when admitting people to her inner circle.
And yet – this is the mystery within the mystery – she falls for Phillip Carruthers, the louche heir to his late father’s billions. A man infamous for cycling through socially prominent beauties, “Playboy Phil” dazzles Janie with extravagant gifts and orchestrated trips. Their whirlwind engagement feels more performative than genuine. He choreographs their meals, micro-manages their wedding plans. A reader finds herself asking how no-nonsense Janie has succumbed to such nonsense. With Phillip, she allows herself to be curated – dressed, indulged, relieved of the burden of always being the most capable person in the room. Outwardly, Janie is impenetrable; privately, she’s vulnerable, like her sister, and she longs to be the princess in a fairy tale she can’t quite bring herself to believe in.
Janie recognizes the relationship’s red flags, but rationalizes them away – until, that is, Phillip shatters the fantasy by making known his expectation: marriage to him is transactional. For all the marital bliss money can buy, Janie must sideline her career for a sham domesticity. Phillip’s vision of their future leaves no room for a woman whose identity is inseverable from her profession. With this realization, Janie’s self-willed naïveté dissolves. Her princess illusion shatters. She reacts with a fury that she usually keeps suppressed. She ends the engagement with Phillip only to rebound into a former relationship that also seems doomed to fail, though differently. From here, the narrative unspools; ultimately both lovers become suspects in Janie’s disappearance.
Ranging from subtropical Georgia to the Arctic, ROSE DHU’s propulsive plot is fueled by altruism and violence, by the tension between sacrifice and self-preservation. It introduces the questions: Are some promises better unkept? What moral boundaries can be trespassed with a clean conscience?
This solidly plotted novel is a high-octane ride, with red-herring detours and perilous cliff-hangers. It finally reaches a hair-pin curve of an ending that will leave readers clenching their teeth. Reader be warned – the novel’s violence is brutal (some might say gratuitous) and its darkness is mostly unleavened by humor. The many flashbacks require an attentive reader willing to be pulled along by a narrative that sensationally includes misogynistic threats, sexual assaults, fratricide suspicions, human trafficking, a diabolical sister, a bull gator with a taste for human flesh, and bits of bone discovered in tidal marsh mud. As the book’s characters often say, “It’s complicated.” But if you’re looking for smart literary escapism, ROSE DHU is a darn good read.
The mystery reader’s page-by-page effort to parse motive must be rewarded by a conclusion that surprises just as it satisfies. The revelation at novel’s end should feel logical after the fact, even if unforeseen before it. That’s a tricky balance, one that Mark E. Murphy pulls off with his new crime thriller ROSE DHU.
ROSE DHU, set in Savannah, GA – humid, hierarchical, and haunted by secrets that refuse to stay buried – follows a cast of vividly drawn characters. At its center is police detective Frank Winger. War veteran and widower, Winger drives a battered Hyundai, wears vintage Eagles t-shirts with cowboy boots. He’s an outsider, an unremarkable presence in his community, and he prefers it that way, since being nondescript makes detection more effective.
Winger smokes weed to exorcise guilt that dogs him at night, but on the job, he’s a bloodhound and compulsive list-maker. When Janie O’Connor, a revered surgeon with intimate ties to Savannah’s elite, fails to show up for her morning procedures, Winger is assigned the missing persons case. In no time he’s drawn into a knotty tangle of corruption and violence. Complicating the investigation is Winger’s physical attraction to a possible suspect – the vanished doctor’s “luminous, almost transparent” emotionally fragile sister. Acting on his desire would violate his sworn oath and compromise his search for the truth.
At the core of ROSE DHU is: who would want to harm Janie O’Connor? She’s a young doctor universally esteemed by colleagues and patients alike. Janie has never failed – academically, athletically or professionally. Known at work for her discipline, reliability, and razor-sharp intellect, she charts her life with the same steely resolve that she brings to the surgical theater. Control is her element. Dr. O’Connor, “ice-water in her veins,” is not the sort to miscalculate when admitting people to her inner circle.
And yet – this is the mystery within the mystery – she falls for Phillip Carruthers, the louche heir to his late father’s billions. A man infamous for cycling through socially prominent beauties, “Playboy Phil” dazzles Janie with extravagant gifts and orchestrated trips. Their whirlwind engagement feels more performative than genuine. He choreographs their meals, micro-manages their wedding plans. A reader finds herself asking how no-nonsense Janie has succumbed to such nonsense. With Phillip, she allows herself to be curated – dressed, indulged, relieved of the burden of always being the most capable person in the room. Outwardly, Janie is impenetrable; privately, she’s vulnerable, like her sister, and she longs to be the princess in a fairy tale she can’t quite bring herself to believe in.
Janie recognizes the relationship’s red flags, but rationalizes them away – until, that is, Phillip shatters the fantasy by making known his expectation: marriage to him is transactional. For all the marital bliss money can buy, Janie must sideline her career for a sham domesticity. Phillip’s vision of their future leaves no room for a woman whose identity is inseverable from her profession. With this realization, Janie’s self-willed naïveté dissolves. Her princess illusion shatters. She reacts with a fury that she usually keeps suppressed. She ends the engagement with Phillip only to rebound into a former relationship that also seems doomed to fail, though differently. From here, the narrative unspools; ultimately both lovers become suspects in Janie’s disappearance.
Ranging from subtropical Georgia to the Arctic, ROSE DHU’s propulsive plot is fueled by altruism and violence, by the tension between sacrifice and self-preservation. It introduces the questions: Are some promises better unkept? What moral boundaries can be trespassed with a clean conscience?
This solidly plotted novel is a high-octane ride, with red-herring detours and perilous cliff-hangers. It finally reaches a hair-pin curve of an ending that will leave readers clenching their teeth. Reader be warned – the novel’s violence is brutal (some might say gratuitous) and its darkness is mostly unleavened by humor. The many flashbacks require an attentive reader willing to be pulled along by a narrative that sensationally includes misogynistic threats, sexual assaults, fratricide suspicions, human trafficking, a diabolical sister, a bull gator with a taste for human flesh, and bits of bone discovered in tidal marsh mud. As the book’s characters often say, “It’s complicated.” But if you’re looking for smart literary escapism, ROSE DHU is a darn good read.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Mark Murphy's "Rose Dhu" masterfully blends Southern Gothic atmosphere with a taut thriller plot, centering on the disappearance of Dr. Janie O’Connor from her Savannah estate. The novel opens with a gripping mystery that hooks readers immediately, as suspicions fall on her ex-fiancé, Phillip Carruthers, heir to a powerful old-money family. Detective Frank Winger leads the investigation, navigating political interference and personal ties that expose Savannah's elite underbelly.
Murphy excels in misdirection, delivering a shocking mid-novel twist: Janie fakes her own death through a gruesome act of self-mutilation, severing her pinkie finger to plant convincing evidence in the marsh. This revelation shifts the narrative from procedural to a profound meditation on sacrifice, as Janie—now Alice Tubman—escapes to protect her sister Diane from Carruthers' predatory influence, including a covered-up rape. The prose vividly captures the moss-draped oaks and haunted marshes, making the setting a character that amplifies the tension.
Carruthers embodies the novel's critique of concealed evil beneath social charm, his playboy facade masking ruthless entitlement and violence. Winger's world-weary philosophy—that life exists in moral grays—culminates in a poignant climax where he chooses compassion over duty, letting Janie go. Murphy's background as a doctor infuses authenticity into Janie's surgical precision and the medical details, elevating character depth.
Rose Dhu utilizes a dual-timeline narrative featuring Detective Frank Winger's investigation and Janie O'Connor's secret view, enhancing suspense through calculated reveals. The story starts as a procedural thriller with the twist of Janie's faked death, leading to an intense chase linking past traumas and present challenges. Initially slow-paced to match the Southern backdrop, the tempo quickens post-twist with shorter chapters. The use of flashbacks deepens character motivations, although some side plots may detract from the main narrative. Ultimately, the pacing culminates in a climax that offers emotional depth, positioning Rose Dhu as a layered narrative that transcends conventional genre limits.
While the intensity occasionally overshadows subtler emotional beats, "Rose Dhu" delivers a satisfying, character-driven thrill ride with sharp social commentary, it probes the costs of love, power, and justice. Highly recommended for fans of atmospheric mysteries that linger.
Murphy excels in misdirection, delivering a shocking mid-novel twist: Janie fakes her own death through a gruesome act of self-mutilation, severing her pinkie finger to plant convincing evidence in the marsh. This revelation shifts the narrative from procedural to a profound meditation on sacrifice, as Janie—now Alice Tubman—escapes to protect her sister Diane from Carruthers' predatory influence, including a covered-up rape. The prose vividly captures the moss-draped oaks and haunted marshes, making the setting a character that amplifies the tension.
Carruthers embodies the novel's critique of concealed evil beneath social charm, his playboy facade masking ruthless entitlement and violence. Winger's world-weary philosophy—that life exists in moral grays—culminates in a poignant climax where he chooses compassion over duty, letting Janie go. Murphy's background as a doctor infuses authenticity into Janie's surgical precision and the medical details, elevating character depth.
Rose Dhu utilizes a dual-timeline narrative featuring Detective Frank Winger's investigation and Janie O'Connor's secret view, enhancing suspense through calculated reveals. The story starts as a procedural thriller with the twist of Janie's faked death, leading to an intense chase linking past traumas and present challenges. Initially slow-paced to match the Southern backdrop, the tempo quickens post-twist with shorter chapters. The use of flashbacks deepens character motivations, although some side plots may detract from the main narrative. Ultimately, the pacing culminates in a climax that offers emotional depth, positioning Rose Dhu as a layered narrative that transcends conventional genre limits.
While the intensity occasionally overshadows subtler emotional beats, "Rose Dhu" delivers a satisfying, character-driven thrill ride with sharp social commentary, it probes the costs of love, power, and justice. Highly recommended for fans of atmospheric mysteries that linger.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Rose Dhu follows the disappearance of Dr. Janie O’Connor, a brilliant surgeon whose sudden vanishing rattles Savannah. Detective Frank Winger takes the case, and his search uncovers secrets that coil through old money, family loyalty, and violence hidden in plain sight. The story widens from a missing person case into something heavier. It becomes a portrait of power and the people crushed or remade by it. The final revelation, in which Janie reemerges alive under a new identity as Alice Tubman, lands like a quiet shock and changes the emotional color of everything that came before.
Scenes move quickly and often hit with surprising force. I felt pulled in by the atmosphere of Savannah. The place feels damp, shadowed, and tangled with history. Some chapters made me slow down because the emotional weight crept up on me. I found the depictions of trauma raw, but never careless. The book wants you to sit with pain, not look away. That kind of blunt honesty made me connect with Frank more than I expected. His flaws feel lived in. His memories of Afghanistan haunted me in ways I did not anticipate.
There were moments when the story’s intensity nearly overwhelmed its subtler pieces. Still, the ideas underneath the plot stayed with me. What people will sacrifice for those they love. What power looks like when twisted by entitlement. How a life can fracture and rebuild itself into something new. The book is bold about those questions. It pokes at uncomfortable truths, and I appreciate that kind of nerve. By the final pages, I caught myself rooting fiercely for Alice and for Frank.
Rose Dhu reads like a blend of Sharp Objects and Where the Crawdads Sing, only with a darker pulse and a tighter grip on the shadowy power games that shape a Southern town. I would recommend Rose Dhu to readers who enjoy mystery that leans into emotional depth, stories about moral gray zones, or Southern gothic settings with teeth.
Scenes move quickly and often hit with surprising force. I felt pulled in by the atmosphere of Savannah. The place feels damp, shadowed, and tangled with history. Some chapters made me slow down because the emotional weight crept up on me. I found the depictions of trauma raw, but never careless. The book wants you to sit with pain, not look away. That kind of blunt honesty made me connect with Frank more than I expected. His flaws feel lived in. His memories of Afghanistan haunted me in ways I did not anticipate.
There were moments when the story’s intensity nearly overwhelmed its subtler pieces. Still, the ideas underneath the plot stayed with me. What people will sacrifice for those they love. What power looks like when twisted by entitlement. How a life can fracture and rebuild itself into something new. The book is bold about those questions. It pokes at uncomfortable truths, and I appreciate that kind of nerve. By the final pages, I caught myself rooting fiercely for Alice and for Frank.
Rose Dhu reads like a blend of Sharp Objects and Where the Crawdads Sing, only with a darker pulse and a tighter grip on the shadowy power games that shape a Southern town. I would recommend Rose Dhu to readers who enjoy mystery that leans into emotional depth, stories about moral gray zones, or Southern gothic settings with teeth.
January 20, 2026
📚Rose Dhu
✍🏻Mark Murphy
Blurb:
Winner of the Literary Titan Silver Book Award
A highly regarded surgeon has gone missing. Will the search for her whereabouts tear a community apart?
Dr. Janie O’Connor’s disappearance from her Savannah estate, Rose Dhu, has shocked the town to its core. Her former fiancé, Phillip Carruthers—once the most eligible bachelor in coastal Georgia and the playboy son of Savannah’s most powerful billionaire family—is the prime suspect.
Phillip maintains his innocence and seems to have an airtight alibi, and the case has local police stumped. But Detective Frank Winger, who has his own personal connection to Janie’s family, is determined to discover what happened . . . as long as false witnesses, evidence tampering, and ghosts from his past don’t get in the way.
When back-door dealings and long-forgotten enemies reveal themselves, will Frank be able to distinguish fact from fiction to figure out what happened to Janie? Or will her whereabouts stay shrouded in the shadows of Savannah’s live oaks?
My Thoughts;
Rose Dhu utilizes a dual-timeline narrative featuring Detective Frank Winger's investigation and Janie O'Connor's secret view, enhancing suspense through calculated reveals. The story starts as a procedural thriller with the twist of Janie's faked death, leading to an intense chase linking past traumas and present challenges. Initially slow-paced to match the Southern backdrop, the tempo quickens post-twist with shorter chapters. Scenes move quickly and often hit with surprising force. If you liked Sharp Objects or Where the crawdads sing then you'll enjoy this book.
Thanks NetGalley, GFB Publisher and Author Mark Murphy for the complimentary copy of "Rose Dhu" I am leaving my voluntary review in appreciation.
#NetGalley
#GFBPublishing
#MarkMurphy
#RoseDhu
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
✍🏻Mark Murphy
Blurb:
Winner of the Literary Titan Silver Book Award
A highly regarded surgeon has gone missing. Will the search for her whereabouts tear a community apart?
Dr. Janie O’Connor’s disappearance from her Savannah estate, Rose Dhu, has shocked the town to its core. Her former fiancé, Phillip Carruthers—once the most eligible bachelor in coastal Georgia and the playboy son of Savannah’s most powerful billionaire family—is the prime suspect.
Phillip maintains his innocence and seems to have an airtight alibi, and the case has local police stumped. But Detective Frank Winger, who has his own personal connection to Janie’s family, is determined to discover what happened . . . as long as false witnesses, evidence tampering, and ghosts from his past don’t get in the way.
When back-door dealings and long-forgotten enemies reveal themselves, will Frank be able to distinguish fact from fiction to figure out what happened to Janie? Or will her whereabouts stay shrouded in the shadows of Savannah’s live oaks?
My Thoughts;
Rose Dhu utilizes a dual-timeline narrative featuring Detective Frank Winger's investigation and Janie O'Connor's secret view, enhancing suspense through calculated reveals. The story starts as a procedural thriller with the twist of Janie's faked death, leading to an intense chase linking past traumas and present challenges. Initially slow-paced to match the Southern backdrop, the tempo quickens post-twist with shorter chapters. Scenes move quickly and often hit with surprising force. If you liked Sharp Objects or Where the crawdads sing then you'll enjoy this book.
Thanks NetGalley, GFB Publisher and Author Mark Murphy for the complimentary copy of "Rose Dhu" I am leaving my voluntary review in appreciation.
#NetGalley
#GFBPublishing
#MarkMurphy
#RoseDhu
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
March 8, 2026
Dr. Janie O'Connor has gone missing and everything is pointing to one prime suspect and yet they can find no evidence and so far no body. Janie a few months prior had broken off her engagement with one of the most well known, rich bachelor's in Georgia. As many know, Phillip Carruthers always gets what he wants and he is not going to allow someone else to have what he cannot. Frank and Pepper get assigned this case and it seems to be going nowhere. Pepper's interviews are dead ends and Frank is also coming up with nothing in his research, but he is quickly realizing things are not adding up to what is being written in the reports. Months later when a scrappy news journalist gets a video showing Phillip was there that night and then another clue indicating where evidence could be found on their property they might just be able to finally nail Phillip. But as Frank goes back over everything, he realizes that things are missing, reports have been altered and the there is only one other person who could have done this. This case is much larger than a person who went missing and now he doesn't know who he can trust. Everyone seems to have been bought by the Carruthers family and he is risking his career for the bombshell he is going to drop on the Chief of police, however it may be the only way to finally get answers and close this case. I loved this mystery, there was so much entangled up and yet it all played out well. I would love for another case for Frank! Thank you to the author and publisher for the complementary novel and to Suzy Approved Book Tours for the invite. This review is of my own opinion and accord.
February 3, 2026
Rich people, dark secrets, and a disappearance that’ll keep you guessing.
In high-society Savannah, money doesn’t just talk. It hides bodies. If you think your family has drama, wait until you meet the suspects in Mark Murphy’s latest page-turner.
Rose Dhu kicks off with a pulse-pounding premise. Dr. Janie O’Connor, a beloved & highly successful surgeon, vanishes into thin air. Enter Detective Frank Winger & his partner, Pepper Stephens. They’re seasoned pros, but this case is a tangled web.
The suspect list is as long as a Savannah moss drape.
Phillip Carruthers is Janie’s fiancé, a man so wealthy & powerful he practically owns the city. Diane was Janie’s sister & the last person to see her alive. She also happens to be the first person to make Frank’s heart beat again since his wife’s murder, adding a layer of high-stakes tension to the badge. Phillip’s "fixer" is a brutal man who’s gone missing at the exact same time as Janie.
What makes Rose Dhu such a standout is how Murphy weaves the corruption of power throughout the investigation. Power, control, grief, & moral compromise run through the story, especially in how money and status warp accountability & truth.
Beyond the procedural grit, the novel explores a poignant journey of grief & rediscovery. Frank is a man haunted by his military service & the brutal murder of his wife. His professional world collides with his personal one when he meets Diane. Their connection adds a layer of high-stakes tension to every lead, forcing the reader to question if love can truly bloom in the shadow of a missing person case.
The pace is remarkably steady. Murphy doesn't rely on cheap gimmicks, but instead builds a solid police procedural that respects the reader's intelligence. I found myself second-guessing my theories as the investigation took several sharp, unexpected turns. The ending that was incredibly satisfying. Out now! A huge thank you to PR by the Book for the gifted ebook.
In high-society Savannah, money doesn’t just talk. It hides bodies. If you think your family has drama, wait until you meet the suspects in Mark Murphy’s latest page-turner.
Rose Dhu kicks off with a pulse-pounding premise. Dr. Janie O’Connor, a beloved & highly successful surgeon, vanishes into thin air. Enter Detective Frank Winger & his partner, Pepper Stephens. They’re seasoned pros, but this case is a tangled web.
The suspect list is as long as a Savannah moss drape.
Phillip Carruthers is Janie’s fiancé, a man so wealthy & powerful he practically owns the city. Diane was Janie’s sister & the last person to see her alive. She also happens to be the first person to make Frank’s heart beat again since his wife’s murder, adding a layer of high-stakes tension to the badge. Phillip’s "fixer" is a brutal man who’s gone missing at the exact same time as Janie.
What makes Rose Dhu such a standout is how Murphy weaves the corruption of power throughout the investigation. Power, control, grief, & moral compromise run through the story, especially in how money and status warp accountability & truth.
Beyond the procedural grit, the novel explores a poignant journey of grief & rediscovery. Frank is a man haunted by his military service & the brutal murder of his wife. His professional world collides with his personal one when he meets Diane. Their connection adds a layer of high-stakes tension to every lead, forcing the reader to question if love can truly bloom in the shadow of a missing person case.
The pace is remarkably steady. Murphy doesn't rely on cheap gimmicks, but instead builds a solid police procedural that respects the reader's intelligence. I found myself second-guessing my theories as the investigation took several sharp, unexpected turns. The ending that was incredibly satisfying. Out now! A huge thank you to PR by the Book for the gifted ebook.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A brilliant surgeon disappears a few months after breaking her engagement to a wealthy playboy. Janie O'Connor was universally beloved, by her patients, her colleagues, her sister, Diane, her parents, and the old boyfriend with whom she had reconnected. Two Savannah police detectives, Frank Winger and Pepper Stephens, are assigned to the case. The likeliest suspect is Phillip Carruthers, Janie's former fiance and one of the richest and most powerful men in Savannah. Even the Chief of Police warns his dectectives to tread lightly lest they bring down the wrath of the Carruthers family.
Rose Dhu (the name of Janie's house and the community in which she lived) is not a bad book but it could have been so much better. The characters are engaging, if a bit cliched. Also, some of their motivations made little sense to me.. The plot held my interest enough that even though I figured out the major plot twist halfway through, I kept reading because I wanted to see if I'd guessed right. (I did!) The writing is not terrible but it seemed pedestrian.
On the whole, I found this to be an entertaining book, but I'd never read it twice and I probably wouldn't seek out others by the same author.
I would like to thank Netgalley and GFB for granting me access to a free advance reading copy of Rose Dhu in exchange for my honest opinion.
Rose Dhu (the name of Janie's house and the community in which she lived) is not a bad book but it could have been so much better. The characters are engaging, if a bit cliched. Also, some of their motivations made little sense to me.. The plot held my interest enough that even though I figured out the major plot twist halfway through, I kept reading because I wanted to see if I'd guessed right. (I did!) The writing is not terrible but it seemed pedestrian.
On the whole, I found this to be an entertaining book, but I'd never read it twice and I probably wouldn't seek out others by the same author.
I would like to thank Netgalley and GFB for granting me access to a free advance reading copy of Rose Dhu in exchange for my honest opinion.
March 5, 2026
Dr. Janie O’Connor’s disappearance from her Savannah estate, Rose Dhu, has shocked the town to its core. Her former fiancé, Phillip Carruthers—once the most eligible bachelor in coastal Georgia and the playboy son of Savannah’s most powerful billionaire family—is the prime suspect.
This is how the novel begins and I expect a very predictable story to follow. For some parts it is just that, a rich family that practically owns the town and everyone in it. How do you get help or justice when everyone is in their pocket?
Sensible outrage builds in the reader against this family as we learn about the things the Carruthers do and what they think they can do.
None really surprising in this world of the law does not apply to all if their bank balance is 7 plus figures...
But then we spin and the story goes where you do not expect. I hate to call it a twist but I suppose some will see it that way. What is is is satisfying.
I have a few complaints, mainly with pacing and sudden revelations with no preamble.
But overall a good read with a satisfying ending
A good mystery and a solid read. Recommened published Jan. 20, 2026
Thanks to @netgalley and GFB for the opportunity to read this eArc in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion.
This is how the novel begins and I expect a very predictable story to follow. For some parts it is just that, a rich family that practically owns the town and everyone in it. How do you get help or justice when everyone is in their pocket?
Sensible outrage builds in the reader against this family as we learn about the things the Carruthers do and what they think they can do.
None really surprising in this world of the law does not apply to all if their bank balance is 7 plus figures...
But then we spin and the story goes where you do not expect. I hate to call it a twist but I suppose some will see it that way. What is is is satisfying.
I have a few complaints, mainly with pacing and sudden revelations with no preamble.
But overall a good read with a satisfying ending
A good mystery and a solid read. Recommened published Jan. 20, 2026
Thanks to @netgalley and GFB for the opportunity to read this eArc in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A Riveting Southern Crime Novel That Keeps The Reader Guessing…
Rose Dhu is a masterfully crafted crime novel authored by local luminary, Mark Murphy, M.D. I found myself both captivated and hooked just a few pages into this exciting read. Set against the enchanting backdrop of Savannah, Georgia, this novel weaves a suspenseful mystery that is both richly atmospheric and emotionally resonant. The disappearance of Dr. Janie O’Connor unfolds with impeccable pacing, drawing readers deep into a tangled web of secrets, loyalties, and hidden truths. The characters are well-developed and compelling. In particular, Detective Frank Winger is a protagonist whose dogged determination and depth make him impossible not to root for. Murphy’s storytelling blends sharp procedural intrigue with surprising twists and nuanced emotional stakes, making Rose Dhu a standout in contemporary crime fiction. Whether you’re a longtime mystery fan or a newcomer to the genre, this novel delivers thrills, heart, and unforgettable storytelling. A truly impressive work that deserves a spot on every crime lover’s bookshelf.
Rose Dhu is a masterfully crafted crime novel authored by local luminary, Mark Murphy, M.D. I found myself both captivated and hooked just a few pages into this exciting read. Set against the enchanting backdrop of Savannah, Georgia, this novel weaves a suspenseful mystery that is both richly atmospheric and emotionally resonant. The disappearance of Dr. Janie O’Connor unfolds with impeccable pacing, drawing readers deep into a tangled web of secrets, loyalties, and hidden truths. The characters are well-developed and compelling. In particular, Detective Frank Winger is a protagonist whose dogged determination and depth make him impossible not to root for. Murphy’s storytelling blends sharp procedural intrigue with surprising twists and nuanced emotional stakes, making Rose Dhu a standout in contemporary crime fiction. Whether you’re a longtime mystery fan or a newcomer to the genre, this novel delivers thrills, heart, and unforgettable storytelling. A truly impressive work that deserves a spot on every crime lover’s bookshelf.
January 21, 2026
I chose to read 'Rose Dhu' because of the description but mainly because I know Savannah fairly well and love reading novels set there, the familiarity with the place, I think, adds an additional layer of enjoyment of and engagement with the story. That said, my expectations weren't overly high for the book. I'm happy and humbled to say that Mark Murphy blew those expectations out of the water and produced a twisty-turny, murder mystery completely steeped in its location and surroundings.
At one point I was pretty smugly convinced I saw what was coming and he led me gently - hook, line, and sinker - down that path only to yank the rug out from under me and set me back to wondering 'whodunnit' and why. There were niggles in my mind as to another possibility but he so skillfully says 'but look over there' to distract you and those niggles disappear. There are a couple of false endings where you wonder how he's going to fill out the final part of the book but rather than being a frustration, they're a welcome extending of the story.
Also, as I'd hoped, Savannah is treated as a real additional character in the book and, for me, that was the clincher.
Bravo to all involved.
At one point I was pretty smugly convinced I saw what was coming and he led me gently - hook, line, and sinker - down that path only to yank the rug out from under me and set me back to wondering 'whodunnit' and why. There were niggles in my mind as to another possibility but he so skillfully says 'but look over there' to distract you and those niggles disappear. There are a couple of false endings where you wonder how he's going to fill out the final part of the book but rather than being a frustration, they're a welcome extending of the story.
Also, as I'd hoped, Savannah is treated as a real additional character in the book and, for me, that was the clincher.
Bravo to all involved.
February 13, 2026
Rose Dhu is a gripping mystery that pulls you in from the very first page. Dr. Janie O'Connor’s disappearance is both shocking and heartbreaking, and the tension surrounding her case kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time. The twist with Phillip Carruthers as the prime suspect is fascinating he’s a character you can’t quite figure out, which makes the plot even more intriguing. The more you learn about his past and his connection to the powerful Carruthers family, the more you question his innocence. What I really enjoyed was Detective Frank Winger’s investigation. His determination to uncover the truth, despite personal struggles and obstacles, gave the story a personal edge. The way his past and present are intertwined makes him a complex and compelling character. The setting of Savannah, with its haunting live oaks and old-world charm, adds an atmospheric layer to the book. It’s the perfect backdrop for a mystery filled with secrets, back-door deals, and long-forgotten enemies. If you enjoy mysteries with intricate plots, flawed but determined characters, and a setting that almost becomes a character in itself, Rose Dhu is definitely worth picking up.
March 21, 2026
This book will appeal to fans of mysteries, police procedurals, and southern fiction. It starts as a missing persons case, but the investigation reveals something much darker and sinister.
I must visit Savannah, Georgia, someday because I love books set there, and this one is no exception. The rich, vivid, and supposedly haunted atmosphere lends to a chilling turn of events that I did not see coming. As Detective Frank Winger seeks to discover what happened to a well-loved local surgeon, he uncovers betrayals, corruption, and horrific business dealings.
The characters range from evil and despicable to a little suspicious to those I was totally rooting for. I thought I had this one figured out, but Murphy kept me guessing right up to the end!
Thank you @suzyapprovedbooktours and @heeldawg8691 for this gifted book.
I must visit Savannah, Georgia, someday because I love books set there, and this one is no exception. The rich, vivid, and supposedly haunted atmosphere lends to a chilling turn of events that I did not see coming. As Detective Frank Winger seeks to discover what happened to a well-loved local surgeon, he uncovers betrayals, corruption, and horrific business dealings.
The characters range from evil and despicable to a little suspicious to those I was totally rooting for. I thought I had this one figured out, but Murphy kept me guessing right up to the end!
Thank you @suzyapprovedbooktours and @heeldawg8691 for this gifted book.
March 24, 2026
You know me and a good crime novel. A missing woman. A rich entitled ex fiancée. It’s twisty and kept me needing to know what happened to the missing doctor. I was also invested in the detective investigating the case. He was such a likable and relatable character that I wanted to root for.
There are plenty of suspects and shady people that could be behind it. I had 2 theories. Both are fetched but that’s how I think.
I loved the setting of Savannah. It almost felt like another character as it added the atmosphere and mystery.
The multiple timelines that show both the present and how the story arrived there gives readers some inside scoop on the details of the disappearance.
Some of the violence is a lot but stopped just before it became too much.
Overall it held my interest from start to finish and kept we immersed in reading.
There are plenty of suspects and shady people that could be behind it. I had 2 theories. Both are fetched but that’s how I think.
I loved the setting of Savannah. It almost felt like another character as it added the atmosphere and mystery.
The multiple timelines that show both the present and how the story arrived there gives readers some inside scoop on the details of the disappearance.
Some of the violence is a lot but stopped just before it became too much.
Overall it held my interest from start to finish and kept we immersed in reading.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A mystery thriller that brings together small town intrigue in the setting of Savannah, Georgia with character dynamics and history. The disappearance of a respected surgeon whose sudden vanishing shocks her community. Her estate called Rose Dhu becomes the center of a mystery with her former fiancé, a figure from one of Savannah‘s wealthiest families, becomes the prime suspect. One of the novel’s greatest strengths is its sense of place which becomes almost a character unto itself. A modern mystery fiction is a page-turner in its character work. With its layered plot and powerful Southern backdrop, Rose Dhu confirms Mark Murphy as a writer capable of blending traditional suspense with psychological depth.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
While this book almost reads like a true crime novel, its dark, edgy quality, that captures you from the beginning, makes it a great addition to the southern gothic murder mystery genre.
Dr. Janie O’Conner has disappeared. She’s just broken off her engagement to Phillip Carruthers, Savannah billionaire, and all fingers are pointing at him. Detectives Frank and Pepper are assigned the case. Over a period of time clues come in but the case seems to be going nowhere, in part because of the long arm of the Carruthers. But Frank’s gut is telling himself is off. When some of Janie’s bones and a tooth are discovered, the FBI is brought in and things get serious. The twists and red herrings are good and when the reveal comes, it’s a shocker - or at least to me it was.
The book explores themes of power, greed, identity,and buried secrets including moral ambiguity and the complexities of love and sacrifice.
This is a real page turner. I highly recommend.
I would like to thank NetGalley and Girl Friday Press for allowing me to read this ARC.
Dr. Janie O’Conner has disappeared. She’s just broken off her engagement to Phillip Carruthers, Savannah billionaire, and all fingers are pointing at him. Detectives Frank and Pepper are assigned the case. Over a period of time clues come in but the case seems to be going nowhere, in part because of the long arm of the Carruthers. But Frank’s gut is telling himself is off. When some of Janie’s bones and a tooth are discovered, the FBI is brought in and things get serious. The twists and red herrings are good and when the reveal comes, it’s a shocker - or at least to me it was.
The book explores themes of power, greed, identity,and buried secrets including moral ambiguity and the complexities of love and sacrifice.
This is a real page turner. I highly recommend.
I would like to thank NetGalley and Girl Friday Press for allowing me to read this ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
Rose Dhu by Mark Murphy is a gripping, atmospheric mystery that pulls readers into the shadowed elegance of Savannah and refuses to let go. From the moment Dr. Janie O’Connor vanishes, the story unfolds with tension, intrigue, and emotional depth that keeps the pages turning. The disappearance of a respected surgeon instantly shakes the community, and the suspicion surrounding her powerful former fiancé adds a compelling layer of drama and social complexity. Murphy skillfully weaves together wealth, influence, secrets, and small-town politics, creating a mystery that feels both personal and far-reaching.
March 8, 2026
This novel did not disappoint. It’s the kind of book you pick up expecting a leisurely read, drawn in by Savannah and its undeniable charm as the backdrop for a mystery-thriller. Instead, I found myself devouring it.
Murphy does a fantastic job building a vivid cast of characters in this ever-twisting tale of how deeply a powerful family empire can sink its claws into Savannah’s political infrastructure. The story reveals just how far families will go to protect the things they value most—animate or otherwise.
I highly recommend this for readers who enjoy a slow build and can savor the anticipation, because the payoff is absolutely worth the wait.
Murphy does a fantastic job building a vivid cast of characters in this ever-twisting tale of how deeply a powerful family empire can sink its claws into Savannah’s political infrastructure. The story reveals just how far families will go to protect the things they value most—animate or otherwise.
I highly recommend this for readers who enjoy a slow build and can savor the anticipation, because the payoff is absolutely worth the wait.
December 9, 2025
A successful and popular surgeon does missing. Dr Janie O'Connor recently broke her engagement with the CEO (Phillip Carruthers) of the most successful companies in Savannah. Missing without a trace, the case soon turns into a murder. Local police detectives have a hard time gaining access to the Carruthers family. All the evidence is pointing to the elusive family and the staff. This was an exciting, extremely fast paced and very entertaining story. The twists will give you several "a-ha" moments.
December 10, 2025
A high-profile woman vanishes from her gorgeous Savannah home, and suddenly everyone has their eyes on the town’s former golden boy, Phillip Carruthers. He swears he’s innocent, but there’s something a little too polished about his story. Detective Frank Winger starts digging, and what he finds is a tangle of secrets, power plays, and old wounds that refuse to stay buried. The tension builds with every chapter, and I couldn’t stop trying to guess the truth. Big thanks to NetGalley for the early read!
February 8, 2026
There’s something I absolutely can’t resist about deeply atmospheric stories, and this Southern Gothic grabbed me from the very first page. I loved the rich descriptions, it honestly felt like I was in Savannah, Georgia (a place I really hope I get to visit someday).
This was a fast-paced, one-day read for me. There are twists, and a few of them genuinely caught me off guard, which is always a win for me.
If you love Southern Gothic vibes, atmospheric mysteries, and twisty suspense, this one’s definitely for you.
This was a fast-paced, one-day read for me. There are twists, and a few of them genuinely caught me off guard, which is always a win for me.
If you love Southern Gothic vibes, atmospheric mysteries, and twisty suspense, this one’s definitely for you.
February 23, 2026
Even though I have never been to Savannah myself I really enjoy it as a setting for mysteries. The setting really came to life pulling me in even more. I liked how it was structured getting to know everyone involved from the victim, detectives, and suspects. It followed Frank the most, adding some good police procedural details. The suspense and twists were well placed and kept me guessing. The writing flowed nicely making for a quick read.
Thank you @heeldawg8691 @suzyapprovedbooktours for the gifted copy.
Thank you @heeldawg8691 @suzyapprovedbooktours for the gifted copy.
March 13, 2026
Set against the sun-soaked yet shadowy streets of Savannah, this Southern thriller serves up atmosphere with a side of chills. Detective Frank Winger is a character you can’t help rooting for as he digs into the mystery of a missing doctor. The story unfolds through a clever dual timeline, weaving Frank’s investigation with Janie O’Connor’s secret perspective. It starts with a slow Southern simmer, but once the big twist hits, the pace kicks up fast. Some scenes lean deliciously grisly, adding shock and making you wonder—what would I do in that situation? Suspenseful and juicy.
January 24, 2026
This gripping Southern mystery pulls you in from the first page. The disappearance of Dr. Janie O’Connor unravels secrets, power plays, and buried resentments beneath Savannah’s elegant surface. With a determined detective, layered suspects, and escalating tension, this story keeps you guessing until the end. Atmospheric, emotionally charged, and sharply written, it’s a compelling read for fans of character-driven crime fiction.
March 15, 2026
I love a well-written completely captivating police procedural and this one delivers in spades. It's a dangerous puzzle and I'm fascinated by the way little clues are found and seemingly unrelated pieces gradually slide together to form the whole picture. The characters, the setting, and the blend of timelines all work to create this intriguing mystery and I couldn't put it down. You don't want to miss this incredible thriller!
I received a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
I received a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
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