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138 Main
AN ADDRESS TO DIE FOR…
There’s a killer on the loose. And he’s targeting one specific address—138 Main Street. The problem? There are over 7,000 Main Streets in the USA. And the police and FBI have no clue which one will be next.
For FBI Special Agent Ben Walker and his rookie colleague, Officer Zoe Hill, the pressure to solve the case is unimaginable. There aren’t enough police officers to cover every house, and vigilante residents are attacking anyone who rings their doorbell. Main Street might be one of America’s most popular addresses, but for those living at number 138, it comes down to fight or flight.
Then a manuscript is sent to the New York Times, purporting to be the manifesto of the “Main Street Killer” and demanding radical social change. As the effect of the terror campaign takes hold across the nation, Walker and Hill find themselves in a race against time to stop the killer. But with their target always several steps ahead, and almost 3,800,000 square miles of ground to cover, they’ll have to find him first…
There’s a killer on the loose. And he’s targeting one specific address—138 Main Street. The problem? There are over 7,000 Main Streets in the USA. And the police and FBI have no clue which one will be next.
For FBI Special Agent Ben Walker and his rookie colleague, Officer Zoe Hill, the pressure to solve the case is unimaginable. There aren’t enough police officers to cover every house, and vigilante residents are attacking anyone who rings their doorbell. Main Street might be one of America’s most popular addresses, but for those living at number 138, it comes down to fight or flight.
Then a manuscript is sent to the New York Times, purporting to be the manifesto of the “Main Street Killer” and demanding radical social change. As the effect of the terror campaign takes hold across the nation, Walker and Hill find themselves in a race against time to stop the killer. But with their target always several steps ahead, and almost 3,800,000 square miles of ground to cover, they’ll have to find him first…
416 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 2, 2026
About the author
Gavin Bell
1 book53 followersGavin Bell is the author of 138 Main, published in 2026 by Simon & Schuster.
Under the pseudonym of Mason Cross, Gavin wrote the Carter Blake series of thrillers published by Orion. The first, The Killing Season, was published in 2014 and was longlisted for the Theakstons Old Peculier Crime Novel of the Year. It was followed by four further novels in the series, including the Richard and Judy Book Club selection, The Samaritan. He has also written standalone thrillers as Alex Knight, including Hunted and Darkness Falls.
He lives in Glasgow with his wife and three children.
Sign up for the Gavin Bell Readers Club for news and updates, and a free short story https://gavinbell.net/readers-club
Under the pseudonym of Mason Cross, Gavin wrote the Carter Blake series of thrillers published by Orion. The first, The Killing Season, was published in 2014 and was longlisted for the Theakstons Old Peculier Crime Novel of the Year. It was followed by four further novels in the series, including the Richard and Judy Book Club selection, The Samaritan. He has also written standalone thrillers as Alex Knight, including Hunted and Darkness Falls.
He lives in Glasgow with his wife and three children.
Sign up for the Gavin Bell Readers Club for news and updates, and a free short story https://gavinbell.net/readers-club
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews
May 28, 2026
When I read the synopsis for this book I knew I needed to read it., a killer who targets the residents of 138 Main Street. The biggest FBI investigation in America to try to stop this ruthless serial killer. How can you not want to read this?
There are over 7000 138 Main Streets in the USA, how on earth are they going to do this? A rookie cop and a seasoned special agent have their work cut out for them, no pressure right. I loved how Ben and Zoe teamed up, trusting each other’s instincts to work the case.
This is a fast paced, action packed book that had me turning the pages as quickly as I could. I would love to see more books with these characters. I loved the over enthusiastic analyst, Broadie, who was keen on the statistics and facts.
Thanks so much to Gallery Books for my early copy of this book to read on NetGalley and Likely Suspects in the UK who sent me a hardcover copy.
There are over 7000 138 Main Streets in the USA, how on earth are they going to do this? A rookie cop and a seasoned special agent have their work cut out for them, no pressure right. I loved how Ben and Zoe teamed up, trusting each other’s instincts to work the case.
This is a fast paced, action packed book that had me turning the pages as quickly as I could. I would love to see more books with these characters. I loved the over enthusiastic analyst, Broadie, who was keen on the statistics and facts.
Thanks so much to Gallery Books for my early copy of this book to read on NetGalley and Likely Suspects in the UK who sent me a hardcover copy.
May 7, 2026
I really enjoyed this one and was immediately hooked with the premise. A new author for me and I loved the writing style and short chapters, I am excited to see what more this author has in store. If you like a fast paced thriller give this one a read.
May 10, 2026
138 Main Street follows FBI Special Agent Ben Walker and rookie Officer Zoe Hill on a case unlike any they’ve seen before. There is a killer on the loose. He has committed four murders in four weeks, with only one thing in common: the victims’ address. But there are over 7,000 Main Streets in the USA. And they have no clue which one will be next. With their target always several steps ahead, and every town in the country at imminent risk, the pressure is on Ben and Zoe to find him…
138 Main Street delivers chilling, unpredictable suspense from start to finish, and I was completely gripped throughout. Every chapter intensified the tension, leaving me constantly on edge and desperate to know what would happen next.
The concept itself is unique, but what elevated this book was how well-written and thrilling it was to read. The short chapters and multiple perspectives created an addictive momentum that made it almost impossible to put down, and I flew through it. Gavin Bell balances a relentless pace with intricate plotting perfectly, delivering twists that constantly exceeded my expectations. I genuinely never saw the biggest twist coming, which made the ending even more satisfying.
Although this is a very plot-driven story, the character work was exceptional. I was particularly invested in Zoe from the very beginning, but the entire team was compelling enough that I would happily follow them again if this were to become a series.
Cleverly plotted, frightening, tense, and genuinely exhilarating to read, 138 Main Street is the kind of thriller that reminds you why the genre is so addictive in the first place.
Thank you so much to Likely Suspects and Gavin Bell for sending me this copy to read and review. My opinions are my own.
138 Main Street delivers chilling, unpredictable suspense from start to finish, and I was completely gripped throughout. Every chapter intensified the tension, leaving me constantly on edge and desperate to know what would happen next.
The concept itself is unique, but what elevated this book was how well-written and thrilling it was to read. The short chapters and multiple perspectives created an addictive momentum that made it almost impossible to put down, and I flew through it. Gavin Bell balances a relentless pace with intricate plotting perfectly, delivering twists that constantly exceeded my expectations. I genuinely never saw the biggest twist coming, which made the ending even more satisfying.
Although this is a very plot-driven story, the character work was exceptional. I was particularly invested in Zoe from the very beginning, but the entire team was compelling enough that I would happily follow them again if this were to become a series.
Cleverly plotted, frightening, tense, and genuinely exhilarating to read, 138 Main Street is the kind of thriller that reminds you why the genre is so addictive in the first place.
Thank you so much to Likely Suspects and Gavin Bell for sending me this copy to read and review. My opinions are my own.
June 17, 2026
138 MAIN by Gavin Bell
Published: June 2026 by Scout Press
Graded: B+
Be prepared to be immersed for several sittings for this propulsive high stakes crime thriller. This is the first time this marvelous Scottish writer is being published under his own name. He has written since 2014 under several pseudonyms. With this catchy premise, a serial killer is targeting residents at 138 Main Street, all without apparent connections or motives. The FBI faces an almost impossible task to frantically investigate this national crisis with over 7,000 Main Streets across America. Who will be the next victim? The killer is always at his next kill site before any clue suggests his victim. This clever premise will breed escalating suspense and terror nationwide as the body count rises. FBI Special Agent Ben Walker and his protege, rookie officer Zoe Hill are tasked with leading the investigation to uncover clues and the potential next victim. Their team races across America as the puzzle pieces inexorably fall into place. National terror crescendoes after the killer’s manifesto is published demanding radical social change. The media relentlessly stokes fear and distrust daily.
Bell proves to be a masterful storyteller with his meticulous fast pacing, told through short chapters and multiple points of view and frequent cliff hangers. He successfully explores themes of fear, and mass hysteria, compounded by media influences. This twisty thriller will appeal to fans of Michael Connelly, and aficionados of FBI procedurals and television crime thrillers. I think I’ve found another excellent writer to add to my list of must reads.
Published at Deadly Pleasures Mystery Magazine ....
Published: June 2026 by Scout Press
Graded: B+
Be prepared to be immersed for several sittings for this propulsive high stakes crime thriller. This is the first time this marvelous Scottish writer is being published under his own name. He has written since 2014 under several pseudonyms. With this catchy premise, a serial killer is targeting residents at 138 Main Street, all without apparent connections or motives. The FBI faces an almost impossible task to frantically investigate this national crisis with over 7,000 Main Streets across America. Who will be the next victim? The killer is always at his next kill site before any clue suggests his victim. This clever premise will breed escalating suspense and terror nationwide as the body count rises. FBI Special Agent Ben Walker and his protege, rookie officer Zoe Hill are tasked with leading the investigation to uncover clues and the potential next victim. Their team races across America as the puzzle pieces inexorably fall into place. National terror crescendoes after the killer’s manifesto is published demanding radical social change. The media relentlessly stokes fear and distrust daily.
Bell proves to be a masterful storyteller with his meticulous fast pacing, told through short chapters and multiple points of view and frequent cliff hangers. He successfully explores themes of fear, and mass hysteria, compounded by media influences. This twisty thriller will appeal to fans of Michael Connelly, and aficionados of FBI procedurals and television crime thrillers. I think I’ve found another excellent writer to add to my list of must reads.
Published at Deadly Pleasures Mystery Magazine ....
June 15, 2026
tt: @theaarontodd | ig: @aarontoddreads
📖 Aaron Reads | Book Review
138 Main x Gavin Bell
Publisher: Gallery/Scout Press
Do I Recommend?: Yes! Especially for fans of fast-paced, high-concept serial killer thrillers. Also would be great for fans of Charlie Donlea lovers!
Format: Physical book
📄 Page #: 416
⭐ Star Rating: 4.5
🔪 AT Intensity Rating: 2.5
Quick Plot Points:
• A killer targeting people who live at 138 Main Street
• An FBI agent and rookie officer duo
• Nationwide panic and vigilante chaos
• A manifesto demanding radical social change
• Religious cult elements and a twisty final act
One-Sentence Take:
A fast-paced, unique thriller with great action, memorable characters, and a twist that ultimately got me.
Review:
I loved this! The concept was so unique, and the pacing made it almost impossible to put down. The action scenes were so good, but the characters are what made the story especially memorable. Zoe, Brodie, and Walker all felt distinct, and I would absolutely read more books featuring them.
The twist got me, although the motivation behind it felt a little…meh…once everything was revealed. I liked the religious cult elements. The story didn’t go too deep into them, and I would have been okay with learning more about it considering the twist, but it gave me just enough to stay intrigued.
Fast, fun, and genuinely unputdownable!
📖 Aaron Reads | Book Review
138 Main x Gavin Bell
Publisher: Gallery/Scout Press
Do I Recommend?: Yes! Especially for fans of fast-paced, high-concept serial killer thrillers. Also would be great for fans of Charlie Donlea lovers!
Format: Physical book
📄 Page #: 416
⭐ Star Rating: 4.5
🔪 AT Intensity Rating: 2.5
Quick Plot Points:
• A killer targeting people who live at 138 Main Street
• An FBI agent and rookie officer duo
• Nationwide panic and vigilante chaos
• A manifesto demanding radical social change
• Religious cult elements and a twisty final act
One-Sentence Take:
A fast-paced, unique thriller with great action, memorable characters, and a twist that ultimately got me.
Review:
I loved this! The concept was so unique, and the pacing made it almost impossible to put down. The action scenes were so good, but the characters are what made the story especially memorable. Zoe, Brodie, and Walker all felt distinct, and I would absolutely read more books featuring them.
The twist got me, although the motivation behind it felt a little…meh…once everything was revealed. I liked the religious cult elements. The story didn’t go too deep into them, and I would have been okay with learning more about it considering the twist, but it gave me just enough to stay intrigued.
Fast, fun, and genuinely unputdownable!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 18, 2026
The premise of this book is really fun, and it's what made me so excited to read it. What could possibly lead someone to kill people purely because of their address? Surely there can't be a link between them other than the street they live on.
I found it really interesting that the author is actually British, so I wondered why he decided to set the book in America. But as one of the characters questions: What would our alternative to Main Street be? High Street? I doubt we have many of those. Maybe we could have a pub version! I'm sure there are hundreds of The King's Head.
The characters are really likeable, and I like how they brought them together to create a task force. I would definitely be interested in seeing them work together again in the future.
Overall, a fun concept, well developed characters, and a mystery that takes you on a nationwide cat and mouse chase.
I found it really interesting that the author is actually British, so I wondered why he decided to set the book in America. But as one of the characters questions: What would our alternative to Main Street be? High Street? I doubt we have many of those. Maybe we could have a pub version! I'm sure there are hundreds of The King's Head.
The characters are really likeable, and I like how they brought them together to create a task force. I would definitely be interested in seeing them work together again in the future.
Overall, a fun concept, well developed characters, and a mystery that takes you on a nationwide cat and mouse chase.
May 18, 2026
3.75⭐️💫 Four murders. Four weeks. One impossible connection: every victim lived at 138 Main Street. FBI Special Agent Ben Walker and rookie officer Zoe Hill know the killer’s next address. But with more than seven thousand Main Streets across America, they have no idea where he’ll strike. Then the Main Street Killer releases his manifesto - and the murders become a warning. His threat is nationwide. His deadline is closing in. And unless Ben and Zoe can find him, the heart of every town in America will become a killing ground.
This is a fast paced read, right from the offset the action starts, the hunt for a serial killer taking them across the whole of America.
The balance of the chapters being split between the two main detectives, some of the potential victims inhabiting the address of 138 Main Street, and our mystery killer, perfectly built up the tension throughout. Despite quite a large cast of characters it was still easy to follow, the clues leading the reader to reach their conclusions as the story progressed.
I must admit I did figure out the culprit about halfway through but I wasn’t sure of the motive so the intrigue definitely kept me turning the pages to find out. I also really enjoyed the emphasis on Zoe’s character, her shrewdness helping to ensure that the underdog inviestigator can solve the crime - I did want to scream at her naivety though for certain decisions made though!!
It probably wasn’t the best idea to have read this book almost one sitting at night and alone, I must admit I had to triple check all the doors and windows before I went to bed that night after reading this - despite not living on Main Street! A clever, intelligent and enthralling crime thriller that can easily be devoured in one sitting.
This is a fast paced read, right from the offset the action starts, the hunt for a serial killer taking them across the whole of America.
The balance of the chapters being split between the two main detectives, some of the potential victims inhabiting the address of 138 Main Street, and our mystery killer, perfectly built up the tension throughout. Despite quite a large cast of characters it was still easy to follow, the clues leading the reader to reach their conclusions as the story progressed.
I must admit I did figure out the culprit about halfway through but I wasn’t sure of the motive so the intrigue definitely kept me turning the pages to find out. I also really enjoyed the emphasis on Zoe’s character, her shrewdness helping to ensure that the underdog inviestigator can solve the crime - I did want to scream at her naivety though for certain decisions made though!!
It probably wasn’t the best idea to have read this book almost one sitting at night and alone, I must admit I had to triple check all the doors and windows before I went to bed that night after reading this - despite not living on Main Street! A clever, intelligent and enthralling crime thriller that can easily be devoured in one sitting.
June 18, 2026
(I won this ARC here on Goodreads) This was an action packed thrill ride and I loved it! It has such a unique premise with all the killings being at 138 Main Streets throughout the United States. The main character Zoe, is a small town cop who gets caught up in the craziness, when the killer strikes in her town and she's chosen for the FBI task force. She heads to New York and the race is on to find the killer before he strikes again. Agent Wallace and security analyst Brodie, help in the search by following leads and analyzing the data. As things heat up and the team starts to figure things out, the killer ramps things up and sets an ultimatum. After Wallace gets hurt and Zoe gets canned from the team, she decides to follow a lead to where she thinks the next target will be. When she gets there, nothing is as it seems and things get wild! I was happy with the ending and with how things wrapped up and I was glad for Zoe.
June 1, 2026
4.5 ⭐️s rounded to 5 ⭐️s
What an action-packed, fast-paced thriller this was! 🙌
I definitely could see this as an FBI thriller series! Loved the Walker, Zoe, and Brodie characters! I thought I knew who was behind it all and then the twist hit. Did not see that coming! Definitely recommend checking this one out, book peeps!! 👏
Thank you partner Atria Books for the gifted advance reader copy in exchange for my honest review! ❤️
What an action-packed, fast-paced thriller this was! 🙌
I definitely could see this as an FBI thriller series! Loved the Walker, Zoe, and Brodie characters! I thought I knew who was behind it all and then the twist hit. Did not see that coming! Definitely recommend checking this one out, book peeps!! 👏
Thank you partner Atria Books for the gifted advance reader copy in exchange for my honest review! ❤️
May 5, 2026
Wow! What a thriller! This book was so good. It had twists and turns and was well written. Kept me guessing until the end. Really made me think throughout. One of the best books I’ve read this year!
Thanks to the publisher for the early access ARC. Put this one on your list folks! Comes out June 2, 2026!
Thanks to the publisher for the early access ARC. Put this one on your list folks! Comes out June 2, 2026!
May 8, 2026
Great fast-paced crime thriller! Drew me in from page 1.
June 20, 2026
I really loved the idea of this book, it was a bit repetitive at times. I think I would have liked it more with a different narrator.
May 4, 2026
ARC - 4.5 stars
The premise of this book intrigued me. A serial killer who only targets people who reside at 138 Main Street? Brilliant concept.
The pace of this book was perfect. I loved how the story was also told from the people who live at 138 Main Street. It reminded me of watching Casualty in the 90s, when it opens to a dad doing DIY or some other mundane activity and you think to yourself “oh no, I know something terrible’s going to happen to you”. I felt on edge throughout.
The mystery of who and why was really well thought out, with the thought process from the characters being delivered well and made easy for the reader to follow, whilst being eked out at the perfect level.
The main characters were really likeable and so I am hopeful this becomes a series and we can meet at least some of them again.
Half a star knocked off for a couple of uses of “they released the breath they didn’t know they were holding” only joking! But they are there; is Gavin trolling us?!
The premise of this book intrigued me. A serial killer who only targets people who reside at 138 Main Street? Brilliant concept.
The pace of this book was perfect. I loved how the story was also told from the people who live at 138 Main Street. It reminded me of watching Casualty in the 90s, when it opens to a dad doing DIY or some other mundane activity and you think to yourself “oh no, I know something terrible’s going to happen to you”. I felt on edge throughout.
The mystery of who and why was really well thought out, with the thought process from the characters being delivered well and made easy for the reader to follow, whilst being eked out at the perfect level.
The main characters were really likeable and so I am hopeful this becomes a series and we can meet at least some of them again.
Half a star knocked off for a couple of uses of “they released the breath they didn’t know they were holding” only joking! But they are there; is Gavin trolling us?!
June 12, 2026
This was a great idea for a book. Someone is targeting people living at the address of 138 Main Street and this could be anywhere across the USA. Obviously there are a lot of Main Streets in America and there just isn't the manpower to check and secure every one of them, especially when they have no idea which one will be targeted next! Special Agent Ben Walker is tasked with the job of working it all out along with Zoe Hill, a police officer involved in the first murder.
It's a fast paced thriller and it was very easy to become hooked into the storyline. I loved the idea of it and the storyline was cleverly written with plenty of suspense and tension. The two main characters worked well together, but I did prefer Zoe who was thrown into the deep end! This was a great read if you're a fan of serial killer books and it will definitely have you thinking about who could be behind it all! Would recommend!
It's a fast paced thriller and it was very easy to become hooked into the storyline. I loved the idea of it and the storyline was cleverly written with plenty of suspense and tension. The two main characters worked well together, but I did prefer Zoe who was thrown into the deep end! This was a great read if you're a fan of serial killer books and it will definitely have you thinking about who could be behind it all! Would recommend!
Read
December 21, 2025Superb suspense!
Residents of the address 138 Main St, in cities across America are suddenly being murdered in their homes and no one knows why.
When Officer Zoe Hill investigates the murder of the homeowner in her home town, she catches the eye of FBI agent Walker who is also there on the scene. He recognizes some untapped potential and invites her to join his task force dealing with the murders. She accepts and is off to NYC.
The chase begins in earnest as,the murders continue with no clues to link them except the streets address where they all occur. As,the killings continue, the task force goes from crime scene to crime scene, looking for clues to help them find this ruthless maniac
The suspense is riveting, the action non-stop and the mystery surrounding the case is simply fascinating.
Great characters in an engrossing story.
Great read.
Residents of the address 138 Main St, in cities across America are suddenly being murdered in their homes and no one knows why.
When Officer Zoe Hill investigates the murder of the homeowner in her home town, she catches the eye of FBI agent Walker who is also there on the scene. He recognizes some untapped potential and invites her to join his task force dealing with the murders. She accepts and is off to NYC.
The chase begins in earnest as,the murders continue with no clues to link them except the streets address where they all occur. As,the killings continue, the task force goes from crime scene to crime scene, looking for clues to help them find this ruthless maniac
The suspense is riveting, the action non-stop and the mystery surrounding the case is simply fascinating.
Great characters in an engrossing story.
Great read.
June 8, 2026
Boy, do I love a book that just storms out of the gate from the very first page and doesn’t let up. This thriller had me hook, line, and sinker from the beginning. ‘138 Main St‘ is definitely one of those books that is incredibly hard to put down and my eyes may have shot daggers at anyone who tried to interrupt my reading time. (Sorry, Millie 😳)
The story starts with a murder. A few days later, there is another one. Again, some days later. The problem is that all the murders are in various parts of the country. There doesn’t seem to be any rhyme or reason as to why these victims have been killed. They don’t have anything in common … until an FBI analyst discovers a pattern. All the murder victims lived at 138 Main Street. This complicates things immensely. With more than 7000 Main Street addresses in the USA, it is impossible to predict where the killer will strike next.
The serial killer theme is one I find hard to pass up and this particular one is making things quite hard for investigators. Local police couldn’t possibly try to cover all of the addresses if they tried, and not every resident has the possibility of finding another place to stay. Cally, for instance, can’t leave as her sister is missing. Patrick has a disability and is agoraphobic, so he can’t leave his house. And of course, as so often happens, there are those who think they’ve taken all precautions and have checked all the security measures and they think they’ll be just fine. Introducing the reader to some of these characters really notches up the level of investment.
The FBI investigation is headed by Special Agent Walker. An experienced agent, he also appreciates a set of fresh eyes and doesn’t shy away from other people’s input or perspective. This is why he chooses to add a local police officer, Zoe Hill, to his team. Zoe is called to a murder on Main Street in her small town in Illinois. Unlike her partner, she immediately picks up on a few things that could prove to be important. Zoe would love to leave small town life behind but is a job, temporary or not, at the FBI a bridge too far? Analyst Brodie completes their little team and together they must try to stop this serial killer from spreading even more chaos.
I flew through the pages like a woman possessed. I found myself completely intrigued and engrossed by the serial killer’s actions. As one of the characters mentions at one point, it was hard not to be impressed by the scale and intricacies of this killer’s spree. It’s complex, well thought out, impeccably planned, and they are always at least one step ahead of investigators. There doesn’t seem to be a clear motive, and with no idea of where they will pop up next or any clues left behind at murder scenes, how do you even begin to chase down a psycho like this? I only figured out their identity a mere minute before it was revealed.
Fast-paced, quite action-packed at times, and incredibly addictive, ‘138 Main St‘ didn’t disappoint. I had rather high expectations, expecting a thrill-a-minute and that’s exactly what I got. This would quite frankly make an excellent tv series. Full of suspense and hugely entertaining, I think this would appeal to anyone who enjoys a riveting serial killer thriller.
The story starts with a murder. A few days later, there is another one. Again, some days later. The problem is that all the murders are in various parts of the country. There doesn’t seem to be any rhyme or reason as to why these victims have been killed. They don’t have anything in common … until an FBI analyst discovers a pattern. All the murder victims lived at 138 Main Street. This complicates things immensely. With more than 7000 Main Street addresses in the USA, it is impossible to predict where the killer will strike next.
The serial killer theme is one I find hard to pass up and this particular one is making things quite hard for investigators. Local police couldn’t possibly try to cover all of the addresses if they tried, and not every resident has the possibility of finding another place to stay. Cally, for instance, can’t leave as her sister is missing. Patrick has a disability and is agoraphobic, so he can’t leave his house. And of course, as so often happens, there are those who think they’ve taken all precautions and have checked all the security measures and they think they’ll be just fine. Introducing the reader to some of these characters really notches up the level of investment.
The FBI investigation is headed by Special Agent Walker. An experienced agent, he also appreciates a set of fresh eyes and doesn’t shy away from other people’s input or perspective. This is why he chooses to add a local police officer, Zoe Hill, to his team. Zoe is called to a murder on Main Street in her small town in Illinois. Unlike her partner, she immediately picks up on a few things that could prove to be important. Zoe would love to leave small town life behind but is a job, temporary or not, at the FBI a bridge too far? Analyst Brodie completes their little team and together they must try to stop this serial killer from spreading even more chaos.
I flew through the pages like a woman possessed. I found myself completely intrigued and engrossed by the serial killer’s actions. As one of the characters mentions at one point, it was hard not to be impressed by the scale and intricacies of this killer’s spree. It’s complex, well thought out, impeccably planned, and they are always at least one step ahead of investigators. There doesn’t seem to be a clear motive, and with no idea of where they will pop up next or any clues left behind at murder scenes, how do you even begin to chase down a psycho like this? I only figured out their identity a mere minute before it was revealed.
Fast-paced, quite action-packed at times, and incredibly addictive, ‘138 Main St‘ didn’t disappoint. I had rather high expectations, expecting a thrill-a-minute and that’s exactly what I got. This would quite frankly make an excellent tv series. Full of suspense and hugely entertaining, I think this would appeal to anyone who enjoys a riveting serial killer thriller.
June 7, 2026
Thank you @randomthingstours @simonschuteruk and @southsidegav for having me on this blogtour
'History shows that today's terrorists may be tomorrow hero's. Will we be judged thus? Perhaps it's too early to say?'
This book has a very unique premise, unlike anything I've read before, and I always find it refreshing when a crime thriller stands out for originality. I loved how dark, deranged, and enigmatic this novel is.
There's a serial killer on the loose with unhinged methods of killing. The only link between the victims is their home address, '138 Main Street.' Although the FBI has determined the link, the question is how can they help protect over 7000 homes spread across the USA.
A 📌 marks the spot. Just imagine being on the killer's hit list just because you live at 138 Main Street. Well, this author will give you a taste of how that must feel, and I was filled with dread.
This was told over multi-POV, and the author did brilliantly at combining this story to be both character-rich and plot-driven.
The protagonists, FBI Special Agent Ben Walker and Rookie Zoe Hill, had a lot to deal with for this case; their jobs became unfathomable. They both had strong backstories, and I became easily invested in them.
The victim chapters were brilliant and displayed an exquisite amount of insight into emotions and actions when driven by fear.
Then you have the killer, who dominates manipulation throughout the story.
The story was meticulous and cleverly plotted. I was hooked throughout. I found every intricate piece engaging, with plentiful twists to keep you guessing right till the last page. The suspense was incredible. It becomes one of those novels where you put yourself in the characters' shoes.
Although I'm not very clued up on the mechanics of the FBI, this book felt authentic. The Killer appeared to be taunting them, always one step ahead and the body count soon rises.
The American setting was perfect for this book, with it's widespread locations it added to the severity to the crimes.
The writing is flawless, and everything comes together seamlessly. It had a variable pace to begin with but once the plot and its characters are initiated it speeds up and doesnt give up.
Bell doesn't shy away from bloodshed and fills your mind with some chilling details.
A new author to me, but one I'll be sticking with.
'History shows that today's terrorists may be tomorrow hero's. Will we be judged thus? Perhaps it's too early to say?'
This book has a very unique premise, unlike anything I've read before, and I always find it refreshing when a crime thriller stands out for originality. I loved how dark, deranged, and enigmatic this novel is.
There's a serial killer on the loose with unhinged methods of killing. The only link between the victims is their home address, '138 Main Street.' Although the FBI has determined the link, the question is how can they help protect over 7000 homes spread across the USA.
A 📌 marks the spot. Just imagine being on the killer's hit list just because you live at 138 Main Street. Well, this author will give you a taste of how that must feel, and I was filled with dread.
This was told over multi-POV, and the author did brilliantly at combining this story to be both character-rich and plot-driven.
The protagonists, FBI Special Agent Ben Walker and Rookie Zoe Hill, had a lot to deal with for this case; their jobs became unfathomable. They both had strong backstories, and I became easily invested in them.
The victim chapters were brilliant and displayed an exquisite amount of insight into emotions and actions when driven by fear.
Then you have the killer, who dominates manipulation throughout the story.
The story was meticulous and cleverly plotted. I was hooked throughout. I found every intricate piece engaging, with plentiful twists to keep you guessing right till the last page. The suspense was incredible. It becomes one of those novels where you put yourself in the characters' shoes.
Although I'm not very clued up on the mechanics of the FBI, this book felt authentic. The Killer appeared to be taunting them, always one step ahead and the body count soon rises.
The American setting was perfect for this book, with it's widespread locations it added to the severity to the crimes.
The writing is flawless, and everything comes together seamlessly. It had a variable pace to begin with but once the plot and its characters are initiated it speeds up and doesnt give up.
Bell doesn't shy away from bloodshed and fills your mind with some chilling details.
A new author to me, but one I'll be sticking with.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Thank you to Scout Press for this gifted ARC...this is my honest review.
📖 138 Main 📖
Author: Gavin Bell
Pub Date: June 2, 2026
Publisher: Scout Press | Simon and Schuster
MY RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Okay, friends.... Why in the world are we not all talking non-stop about 138 Main from Gavin Bell?! This was a brilliantly suspenseful race-against-time thriller that had me utterly captivated by its twists and turns! I could have read this book in one-sitting, but its unsettling serial killer storyline had me feeling too creeped out to keep reading in bed.
This was a book with one of those "bad things happen at night, and there's nothing you can do about it" vibes, and those vibes always get my heart racing after night falls. But I woke up thinking about how soon I could get this book back into my hands so I could see what happened next!
I LOVED the premise of this book. A serial killer is targeting people all over the United States. Not because of who they are -- but because of the address at which they live. And no one who lives at 138 Main Street -- in ANY town in the US -- is safe.
This book had short chapters and was told through multiple POVs. It was a high-octane FBI and police procedural, written with such intriguing suspense that I couldn't put it down. The storyline and the author's writing immediately pulled me in and it was so easy for me to envision this book as a big-screen blockbuster.
Bell's writing was so brilliant, I didn't even realize the book was nearly 400 pages as I read it. 138 Main and its storyline definitely got under my skin! It was compellingly creepy and fantastically suspenseful, and I was completely gobsmacked by its twists and turns. If you love intense and intelligent FBI crime thrillers with a serial killer and unsettling vibes, you're going to love 138 Main as much as I did. Time to hype this one up - out June 2nd!
#138Main #GavinBell #ScoutPress #SimonAndSchuster #fivestarreads #MUSTREADS #thriller #thrilleraddict #booklover #bookreviews #bookrecs #bookrecommendations
📖 138 Main 📖
Author: Gavin Bell
Pub Date: June 2, 2026
Publisher: Scout Press | Simon and Schuster
MY RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Okay, friends.... Why in the world are we not all talking non-stop about 138 Main from Gavin Bell?! This was a brilliantly suspenseful race-against-time thriller that had me utterly captivated by its twists and turns! I could have read this book in one-sitting, but its unsettling serial killer storyline had me feeling too creeped out to keep reading in bed.
This was a book with one of those "bad things happen at night, and there's nothing you can do about it" vibes, and those vibes always get my heart racing after night falls. But I woke up thinking about how soon I could get this book back into my hands so I could see what happened next!
I LOVED the premise of this book. A serial killer is targeting people all over the United States. Not because of who they are -- but because of the address at which they live. And no one who lives at 138 Main Street -- in ANY town in the US -- is safe.
This book had short chapters and was told through multiple POVs. It was a high-octane FBI and police procedural, written with such intriguing suspense that I couldn't put it down. The storyline and the author's writing immediately pulled me in and it was so easy for me to envision this book as a big-screen blockbuster.
Bell's writing was so brilliant, I didn't even realize the book was nearly 400 pages as I read it. 138 Main and its storyline definitely got under my skin! It was compellingly creepy and fantastically suspenseful, and I was completely gobsmacked by its twists and turns. If you love intense and intelligent FBI crime thrillers with a serial killer and unsettling vibes, you're going to love 138 Main as much as I did. Time to hype this one up - out June 2nd!
#138Main #GavinBell #ScoutPress #SimonAndSchuster #fivestarreads #MUSTREADS #thriller #thrilleraddict #booklover #bookreviews #bookrecs #bookrecommendations
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
In a stunning breakout performance, 138 Main has established Gavin Bell as a true master of the thriller genre with his debut novel. Action-packed, addictive, and beyond chilling, this tour de force of a read was a high-octane thrill ride from beginning to end. You see, not only did the cat-and-mouse games and chess-like moves keep me reading long into the night, but the thought-provoking themes had my brain spinning away the entire time. Exploring the idea of societal collapse, political unrest, and the randomness of violence, the spiral of paranoia and fear juxtaposed nicely with the hunt for a serial killer. Told through multiple POVs on both sides of the investigation into the mind-boggling crimes, the handful of main characters were pure dynamite. From believably flawed to deliciously unhinged, I had a blast getting to know them all—including the villain.
In spite of my love for the characters, though, this book still had a very plot-driven feel. Don’t get me wrong, I still love every single word in this intricately plotted, ultra-high-stakes novel. Evoking a very Harlan Coben-meets-Mason Cross vibe, it was both a tried-and-true FBI-versus-a-serial-killer thriller and a high-concept mystery rolled into one that oozed nonstop tension and dread. Put all together, it was an utter home run that still felt original. So what if I figured out the big, giant, jaw-dropping twist just a tad bit early. Most likely thanks to my insatiable appetite for all things suspense, it had absolutely nothing to do with the talent behind this electric, unputdownable read. So if you love crime thrillers with fast pacing, short chapters, and edge-of-your-seat vibes, grab this one now. It will have you reeling from start to finish. Rating of 4.75 stars (upgraded).
SYNOPSIS:
For FBI Special Agent Ben Walker and his rookie colleague, Officer Zoe Hill, the pressure to solve the case is unimaginable. There aren’t enough police officers to cover every house, and vigilante residents are attacking anyone who rings their doorbell. Main Street might be one of America’s most popular addresses, but for those living at number 138, it comes down to fight or flight.
Then a manuscript is sent to the New York Times, purporting to be the manifesto of the “Main Street Killer” and demanding radical social change. As the effect of the terror campaign takes hold across the nation, Walker and Hill find themselves in a race against time to stop the killer. But with their target always several steps ahead, and almost 3,800,000 square miles of ground to cover, they’ll have to find him first…
Thank you Gavin Bell and Gallery Books for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: June 2, 2026
Content warning: murder, blood, gun violence, home invasion, violence, bombings, terrorism, heart attack, death, mention of: knife violence, financial crimes
In spite of my love for the characters, though, this book still had a very plot-driven feel. Don’t get me wrong, I still love every single word in this intricately plotted, ultra-high-stakes novel. Evoking a very Harlan Coben-meets-Mason Cross vibe, it was both a tried-and-true FBI-versus-a-serial-killer thriller and a high-concept mystery rolled into one that oozed nonstop tension and dread. Put all together, it was an utter home run that still felt original. So what if I figured out the big, giant, jaw-dropping twist just a tad bit early. Most likely thanks to my insatiable appetite for all things suspense, it had absolutely nothing to do with the talent behind this electric, unputdownable read. So if you love crime thrillers with fast pacing, short chapters, and edge-of-your-seat vibes, grab this one now. It will have you reeling from start to finish. Rating of 4.75 stars (upgraded).
SYNOPSIS:
For FBI Special Agent Ben Walker and his rookie colleague, Officer Zoe Hill, the pressure to solve the case is unimaginable. There aren’t enough police officers to cover every house, and vigilante residents are attacking anyone who rings their doorbell. Main Street might be one of America’s most popular addresses, but for those living at number 138, it comes down to fight or flight.
Then a manuscript is sent to the New York Times, purporting to be the manifesto of the “Main Street Killer” and demanding radical social change. As the effect of the terror campaign takes hold across the nation, Walker and Hill find themselves in a race against time to stop the killer. But with their target always several steps ahead, and almost 3,800,000 square miles of ground to cover, they’ll have to find him first…
Thank you Gavin Bell and Gallery Books for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: June 2, 2026
Content warning: murder, blood, gun violence, home invasion, violence, bombings, terrorism, heart attack, death, mention of: knife violence, financial crimes
June 8, 2026
🔪 What happens when a serial killer targets an address that exists more than 7,000 times across America?
Thank you to Gallery Books for sending me a finished copy of this thriller!
When victims begin turning up at various locations sharing the address 138 Main Street, law enforcement faces an impossible challenge. With thousands of Main Streets scattered across the United States, the FBI and local police have no clear way to predict where the killer will strike next. The story follows FBI Special Agent Ben Walker and Officer Zoey Hill as they race to stop the so-called Main Street Killer, while interstitial chapters provide glimpses into the killer’s perspective and his demands for radical social change.
This was a fast-paced, highly readable police procedural that kept me turning pages. The chapters are short, the dialogue moves quickly, and the story never lingers too long in one place. This is the kind of book where you sit down intending to read 50 pages and suddenly realize you’ve read 150. It also feels like a perfect poolside thriller—engaging enough to keep your attention without becoming overly dense or complicated.
I especially enjoyed the prose and dialogue, and I appreciated that it felt less dry than many police procedurals. My biggest hesitation was that I never fully connected with the killer’s motivation, and I found the resolution a little less satisfying than I had hoped. Still, I had a genuinely good time reading it, and I suspect many thriller readers will enjoy the ride even more than I did.
⭐️⭐️⭐️¼/5
⚠️ Content warnings: murder, violence, serial killer themes, graphic crime scenes.
📚 Recommended for readers who enjoy:
• JD Robb
• Tana French
• Karen Slaughter
• Fast-paced police procedurals
• Cat-and-mouse serial killer thrillers
Overall, while the ending didn’t completely land for me, the journey was entertaining, suspenseful, and highly bingeable.
Thank you to Gallery Books for sending me a finished copy of this thriller!
When victims begin turning up at various locations sharing the address 138 Main Street, law enforcement faces an impossible challenge. With thousands of Main Streets scattered across the United States, the FBI and local police have no clear way to predict where the killer will strike next. The story follows FBI Special Agent Ben Walker and Officer Zoey Hill as they race to stop the so-called Main Street Killer, while interstitial chapters provide glimpses into the killer’s perspective and his demands for radical social change.
This was a fast-paced, highly readable police procedural that kept me turning pages. The chapters are short, the dialogue moves quickly, and the story never lingers too long in one place. This is the kind of book where you sit down intending to read 50 pages and suddenly realize you’ve read 150. It also feels like a perfect poolside thriller—engaging enough to keep your attention without becoming overly dense or complicated.
I especially enjoyed the prose and dialogue, and I appreciated that it felt less dry than many police procedurals. My biggest hesitation was that I never fully connected with the killer’s motivation, and I found the resolution a little less satisfying than I had hoped. Still, I had a genuinely good time reading it, and I suspect many thriller readers will enjoy the ride even more than I did.
⭐️⭐️⭐️¼/5
⚠️ Content warnings: murder, violence, serial killer themes, graphic crime scenes.
📚 Recommended for readers who enjoy:
• JD Robb
• Tana French
• Karen Slaughter
• Fast-paced police procedurals
• Cat-and-mouse serial killer thrillers
Overall, while the ending didn’t completely land for me, the journey was entertaining, suspenseful, and highly bingeable.
May 18, 2026
I read a lot of thrillers, and I always wonder how on earth authors can come up with something original and thrilling. It's a massively crowded market, with everything from the cosiest of cosy crime to the darkest of dark on offer. It's always joy to find a novel that both surprises and entertains at the same time. A plot that is clever, characters that you can cheer for and a couple of twists to make you spin.
Imagine being on a killer's hit list purely because of your address. Not the colour of your skin, or your gender, or your political beliefs, but just because you happen to live at 138 Main Street.
Imagine then actually living at that address, and there are over seven thousand of them in the United States. Imagine wondering if you are next. Imagine the fear.
Imagine you are FBI Special Agent Ben Walker and rookie Officer Zoe Hill and you are assigned to this case. There have been four murders so far and they know there will be another, they even know the street address, but which town or city?
This is a fast paced and intricately plotted crime thriller that keeps the reader on their toes throughout. The premise is so brilliantly thought out with characters who are utterly believable.
When the author introduces the killer's manifesto to the reader we realise that there could quite possibly be far more to come and following Ben and Zoe, accompanied by IT guy Brodie, on their desperate quest to track him down is just a great ride.
The author also deals with some really socially relevant themes within his story, but these never bog down the plot or the action, it all feels so natural and incredibly realistic.
An expertly woven mystery, with a clever, compelling plot and a great cast of characters, that I couldn't put down. A great premise, with assured prose. 138 Main Street is an absolute cracker of a novel.
Imagine being on a killer's hit list purely because of your address. Not the colour of your skin, or your gender, or your political beliefs, but just because you happen to live at 138 Main Street.
Imagine then actually living at that address, and there are over seven thousand of them in the United States. Imagine wondering if you are next. Imagine the fear.
Imagine you are FBI Special Agent Ben Walker and rookie Officer Zoe Hill and you are assigned to this case. There have been four murders so far and they know there will be another, they even know the street address, but which town or city?
This is a fast paced and intricately plotted crime thriller that keeps the reader on their toes throughout. The premise is so brilliantly thought out with characters who are utterly believable.
When the author introduces the killer's manifesto to the reader we realise that there could quite possibly be far more to come and following Ben and Zoe, accompanied by IT guy Brodie, on their desperate quest to track him down is just a great ride.
The author also deals with some really socially relevant themes within his story, but these never bog down the plot or the action, it all feels so natural and incredibly realistic.
An expertly woven mystery, with a clever, compelling plot and a great cast of characters, that I couldn't put down. A great premise, with assured prose. 138 Main Street is an absolute cracker of a novel.
June 2, 2026
Well... what an amazing concept for a book... A killer who targets addresses rather than people... Sucks to live at 138 Main Street! And with over 7000 Main Streets in the USA, there is neither the people or resources to stake out each and every one... Enter FBI Special Agent Ben Walker to try and make sense of it all. To lead a task force to try and make sense of it all, to try and get ahead of the game... To figure out who and why and, more importantly, where they will strike next... He elicits help from one of the first responders to one of the scenes who, for him, showed exceptional initiative and attention to detail, Officer Zoe Hill, and together they really are up against it...
I blooming loved this book. It's written by an author who usually writes under the name Mason Cross, and, although I have only read one book by him, I have a bunch of his others on my TBR already, including his Carter Blake series.
The characters were darned near perfect, warts and all. And all felt so very real. I took to Ben and Zoe right from the off, as well as a few others who I can't mention here - spoilers. The story, which I will say no more about here, was just the right measure of convoluted, and flummoxed me all the way through. I pretty much gave up trying to second guess and went with the flow quite early on. Enjoying the ride with its twists and turns, secrets, lies, dysfunction and obfuscation, all the way to the absolutely, smashed it out of the park, wholly satisfying ending.
I do wonder if this is the start of a new series... I hope it is...
There are a few books that are so good that I revisit them in AudioBook, this one is definitely one of these, and I will also bet on it staying in my top ten (of over 300) books of the year, come December.
My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
I blooming loved this book. It's written by an author who usually writes under the name Mason Cross, and, although I have only read one book by him, I have a bunch of his others on my TBR already, including his Carter Blake series.
The characters were darned near perfect, warts and all. And all felt so very real. I took to Ben and Zoe right from the off, as well as a few others who I can't mention here - spoilers. The story, which I will say no more about here, was just the right measure of convoluted, and flummoxed me all the way through. I pretty much gave up trying to second guess and went with the flow quite early on. Enjoying the ride with its twists and turns, secrets, lies, dysfunction and obfuscation, all the way to the absolutely, smashed it out of the park, wholly satisfying ending.
I do wonder if this is the start of a new series... I hope it is...
There are a few books that are so good that I revisit them in AudioBook, this one is definitely one of these, and I will also bet on it staying in my top ten (of over 300) books of the year, come December.
My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thanks to NetGalley and Simon and Schuster for the advanced copy of this title in return for an honest review.
I normally make notes as I read an ARC so it's easier when it comes to typing up my review, but I was so engrossed in this that I had hardly anything to go on. But also, it's hard to review it without giving spoilers so I'm not going to try to go into too much detail and it will be a shorter review than I normally do. This is a book you have to read for yourself.
I worried it might be a bit too long and bogged down in details but it wasn't and I flew through it in matter of hours. I mean, it probably wasn't the nice calming, relaxing book I should have started reading before bed when I was alone in the house but hey ho.
It had everything I expected from a thriller but it still felt unique and fresh and exciting.
The characters aren't morally black or white, goodies or baddies, heroes vs villains. Everyone could have a good reason for sitting on either side of the fence - although some lean heavily more towards one side. I would say you don't get much in term of character in the book but that's not a negative. The characters are crucial to progressing the story and I don't think it really needs a whole lot of backstory. There are quite a few characters with a handful of main players, and they all work well and have their own place in the story. Zoe is probably our lead protagonist and she is wonderful and I'd see her becoming a literary hero.
It's tense and uncomfortable and frightening and very clever. I am notoriously awful at working out whodunnits and thrillers etc. so it shouldn't be a surprise that I was clueless here, but I would guess that most people, no matter their skill at working things out, would be clueless here.
I normally make notes as I read an ARC so it's easier when it comes to typing up my review, but I was so engrossed in this that I had hardly anything to go on. But also, it's hard to review it without giving spoilers so I'm not going to try to go into too much detail and it will be a shorter review than I normally do. This is a book you have to read for yourself.
I worried it might be a bit too long and bogged down in details but it wasn't and I flew through it in matter of hours. I mean, it probably wasn't the nice calming, relaxing book I should have started reading before bed when I was alone in the house but hey ho.
It had everything I expected from a thriller but it still felt unique and fresh and exciting.
The characters aren't morally black or white, goodies or baddies, heroes vs villains. Everyone could have a good reason for sitting on either side of the fence - although some lean heavily more towards one side. I would say you don't get much in term of character in the book but that's not a negative. The characters are crucial to progressing the story and I don't think it really needs a whole lot of backstory. There are quite a few characters with a handful of main players, and they all work well and have their own place in the story. Zoe is probably our lead protagonist and she is wonderful and I'd see her becoming a literary hero.
It's tense and uncomfortable and frightening and very clever. I am notoriously awful at working out whodunnits and thrillers etc. so it shouldn't be a surprise that I was clueless here, but I would guess that most people, no matter their skill at working things out, would be clueless here.
May 14, 2026
This is such a tense, unsettling thriller - and one that completely delivers on its brilliant concept.
The idea of a killer targeting people connected only by their address is creepy enough but the way the story expands across America makes it even more disturbing. It stops feeling like a standard serial killer case and starts edging into domestic terrorism territory, especially with the manifesto and political themes woven throughout. Using Main Streets across the country to spread fear and manipulate people politically was such a clever way to raise the stakes. It genuinely makes ordinary places feel dangerous - and aren’t I glad I don’t live on Main Street.
Zoe Hill was the standout for me. Watching her relationships with both Brodie and Ben develop added such a strong emotional layer to the story, especially with Ben recognising her potential from the beginning. Seeing Zoe continually prove herself - and ultimately be recognised for it - was incredibly satisfying. It was also refreshing to see a male author subtly explore toxic masculinity, internalised misogyny, and power struggles within without losing momentum in the plot.
I suspected pretty early on that someone had more to hide, but the way it unfolded was so well executed. The reveals never felt forced, and the tension was built so carefully that I still found myself second-guessing everything.
The use of “Gehenna,” with its associations of punishment, destruction, and something almost apocalyptic simmering beneath the investigation, was such a clever touch.
And Barbs’ unread books? Unexpectedly absolutely broke me 😭
Dark, gripping, clever, and genuinely hard to put down. If real life hadn’t interrupted me, this would have been a one-sitting read. Truly unputdownable.
The idea of a killer targeting people connected only by their address is creepy enough but the way the story expands across America makes it even more disturbing. It stops feeling like a standard serial killer case and starts edging into domestic terrorism territory, especially with the manifesto and political themes woven throughout. Using Main Streets across the country to spread fear and manipulate people politically was such a clever way to raise the stakes. It genuinely makes ordinary places feel dangerous - and aren’t I glad I don’t live on Main Street.
Zoe Hill was the standout for me. Watching her relationships with both Brodie and Ben develop added such a strong emotional layer to the story, especially with Ben recognising her potential from the beginning. Seeing Zoe continually prove herself - and ultimately be recognised for it - was incredibly satisfying. It was also refreshing to see a male author subtly explore toxic masculinity, internalised misogyny, and power struggles within without losing momentum in the plot.
I suspected pretty early on that someone had more to hide, but the way it unfolded was so well executed. The reveals never felt forced, and the tension was built so carefully that I still found myself second-guessing everything.
The use of “Gehenna,” with its associations of punishment, destruction, and something almost apocalyptic simmering beneath the investigation, was such a clever touch.
And Barbs’ unread books? Unexpectedly absolutely broke me 😭
Dark, gripping, clever, and genuinely hard to put down. If real life hadn’t interrupted me, this would have been a one-sitting read. Truly unputdownable.
May 19, 2026
‘138 Main Street’ is something that rarely happens anymore in a saturated crime fiction market - it is an original idea! There truly is nothing else out there with this hook, and I loved every minute of it! Gavin has previously written under the pen name ‘Mason Cross’, and I hadn't read any of them, despite my book bestie Suze raving about them. This will be rectified. This is a standalone story but could easily be turned into a series… I would definitely read more about these characters!
Someone is on a mission, and there is no reasoning behind it apart from the fact that they live at the address 138 Main Street. The victims are located all across the US, and nothing links them apart from their address. But when there are over 7,000 homes with this address, the authorities are unable to predict which one comes next. And it is clear there will be another one…
This story was addictive, instantly gripping you by the baws, and there it remains until the final word has been read! The plot is clever - what would cause the most terror? The anticipation alone could kill you if you resided at that address. Officer Zoe Hill was at one of the crime scenes and impressed FBI Special Agent Ben Walker so much that she was assigned to the task force searching for the killer. They know another murder will happen, but where do they send their limited resources? Both of these characters are faced with hard choices, but they are determined to catch the killer.
This is a deftly and intricately plotted mystery that draws you in. It is one of those books that you inhale. The mystery may be cracking, but the down-to-earth and realistic characters are what helps to create its magic! Hopefully, there will be more to come from this world…
Let me know if you pick this one up.
May 22, 2026
I don’t always gravitate towards serial killer thrillers, usually preferring psychological suspense, but this one completely hooked me from the start. I genuinely couldn’t put it down. I also listened to much of the audiobook on BookBeat while travelling this week, and I’d highly recommend that format too - it really heightened the tension and atmosphere.
The premise is brilliantly simple yet incredibly original. The only link between the last four murders is that each victim lived at 138 Main Street. With more than seven thousand Main Streets scattered across America, predicting where the killer will strike next becomes almost impossible. It’s a chilling concept that immediately raises the stakes and creates a gripping sense of urgency throughout the novel.
The story follows FBI Special Agent Ben Walker and rookie officer Zoe Hill as they race against time to stop a killer whose crimes could happen anywhere in the country. I really liked both characters; they felt believable, relatable, and easy to invest in emotionally. I also loved how the author introduced a range of characters living in different 138 Main Street locations, which added depth and variety to the story while constantly building suspense.
The pacing is excellent, the tension remains high from beginning to end, and there were some good twists. It’s one of those thrillers that keeps you guessing while making it impossible to stop reading.
This is easily one of my favourite thrillers of the year so far. I’ve also just discovered that the author previously wrote under the name Mason Cross, so I’ll definitely be checking out those books next.
The premise is brilliantly simple yet incredibly original. The only link between the last four murders is that each victim lived at 138 Main Street. With more than seven thousand Main Streets scattered across America, predicting where the killer will strike next becomes almost impossible. It’s a chilling concept that immediately raises the stakes and creates a gripping sense of urgency throughout the novel.
The story follows FBI Special Agent Ben Walker and rookie officer Zoe Hill as they race against time to stop a killer whose crimes could happen anywhere in the country. I really liked both characters; they felt believable, relatable, and easy to invest in emotionally. I also loved how the author introduced a range of characters living in different 138 Main Street locations, which added depth and variety to the story while constantly building suspense.
The pacing is excellent, the tension remains high from beginning to end, and there were some good twists. It’s one of those thrillers that keeps you guessing while making it impossible to stop reading.
This is easily one of my favourite thrillers of the year so far. I’ve also just discovered that the author previously wrote under the name Mason Cross, so I’ll definitely be checking out those books next.
May 29, 2026
📖 ARC BOOK REVIEW 📖
Thank you to Gallery Books for providing me this gifted ARC! Thank you to NetGalley and author Gavin Bell!
📚Book: 138 Main
✍🏻Author: Gavin Bell
🌀Genre: Thriller
📃Pages: 416
Publication Date: June 2, 2026
For FBI Special Agent Ben Walker and his rookie colleague, Officer Zoe Hill, the pressure to solve the case is unimaginable. There aren’t enough police officers to cover every house, and vigilante residents are attacking anyone who rings their doorbell. Main Street might be one of America’s most popular addresses, but for those living at number 138, it comes down to fight or flight.
Then a manuscript is sent to the New York Times, purporting to be the manifesto of the “Main Street Killer” and demanding radical social change. As the effect of the terror campaign takes hold across the nation, Walker and Hill find themselves in a race against time to stop the killer. But with their target always several steps ahead, and almost 3,800,000 square miles of ground to cover, they’ll have to find him first…
💜What I Loved:
🌪️ Twists
📖 Unputdownable
👮♂️ FBI
🐢Slow-building suspense
📔Short Chapters
💔What Didn’t Work For Me:
📖 Serial killer’s reason not fully developed
📖 Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.5/5)
👩🏼⚖️Final Word:
138 Main is an unputdownable FBI crime thriller that keeps you guessing right up until the end. I enjoyed the twists and the suspense. The characters were well developed and the story was very unique. The premise for the “serial killer” was not fully explained but it is explained enough to still enjoy the story. If you enjoy FBI serial killer stories and lots of suspense, you will love this book!
Thank you to Gallery Books for providing me this gifted ARC! Thank you to NetGalley and author Gavin Bell!
📚Book: 138 Main
✍🏻Author: Gavin Bell
🌀Genre: Thriller
📃Pages: 416
Publication Date: June 2, 2026
For FBI Special Agent Ben Walker and his rookie colleague, Officer Zoe Hill, the pressure to solve the case is unimaginable. There aren’t enough police officers to cover every house, and vigilante residents are attacking anyone who rings their doorbell. Main Street might be one of America’s most popular addresses, but for those living at number 138, it comes down to fight or flight.
Then a manuscript is sent to the New York Times, purporting to be the manifesto of the “Main Street Killer” and demanding radical social change. As the effect of the terror campaign takes hold across the nation, Walker and Hill find themselves in a race against time to stop the killer. But with their target always several steps ahead, and almost 3,800,000 square miles of ground to cover, they’ll have to find him first…
💜What I Loved:
🌪️ Twists
📖 Unputdownable
👮♂️ FBI
🐢Slow-building suspense
📔Short Chapters
💔What Didn’t Work For Me:
📖 Serial killer’s reason not fully developed
📖 Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.5/5)
👩🏼⚖️Final Word:
138 Main is an unputdownable FBI crime thriller that keeps you guessing right up until the end. I enjoyed the twists and the suspense. The characters were well developed and the story was very unique. The premise for the “serial killer” was not fully explained but it is explained enough to still enjoy the story. If you enjoy FBI serial killer stories and lots of suspense, you will love this book!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
4.5 stars
138 Main Street is a gripping, fast paced and intriguing read that is very hard to put down. It’s going to be a hard book to review as I don’t want to give anything away!
In this book we follow the FBI as they trace a killer targeting people who live at 138 Main Street one of the most popular addresses in the United States. Told from multiple points of view we follow the FBI and the potential victims as they try to solve why someone is targeting the residents of this address and why they are doing it.
I really enjoyed this one and I raced through it in a couple of days as I was really invested in the case so I wanted to see how it was going to resolve. What quickly unfolds is a fascinating cat and mouse game across America with the killer seemingly playing with the FBI agents as they try to find them. The book is full of lots of twists that kept me guessing which I always enjoy and just when I thought I had figured everything out something would happen to move the story in a completely different direction. I absolutely loved the main FBI characters of Walter, Zoe and Brodie who I thought made a great team together. Their discoveries throughout the case where realistically done and I loved trying to solve the murders along side them.
The ending was brilliant and while I had been able to guess one of the twists, I hadn’t worked out the other one which was very exciting. The ending hints at a possible sequel which I hope is true as I’d love to read more about the fabulous FBI agents.
138 Main Street is a gripping, fast paced and intriguing read that is very hard to put down. It’s going to be a hard book to review as I don’t want to give anything away!
In this book we follow the FBI as they trace a killer targeting people who live at 138 Main Street one of the most popular addresses in the United States. Told from multiple points of view we follow the FBI and the potential victims as they try to solve why someone is targeting the residents of this address and why they are doing it.
I really enjoyed this one and I raced through it in a couple of days as I was really invested in the case so I wanted to see how it was going to resolve. What quickly unfolds is a fascinating cat and mouse game across America with the killer seemingly playing with the FBI agents as they try to find them. The book is full of lots of twists that kept me guessing which I always enjoy and just when I thought I had figured everything out something would happen to move the story in a completely different direction. I absolutely loved the main FBI characters of Walter, Zoe and Brodie who I thought made a great team together. Their discoveries throughout the case where realistically done and I loved trying to solve the murders along side them.
The ending was brilliant and while I had been able to guess one of the twists, I hadn’t worked out the other one which was very exciting. The ending hints at a possible sequel which I hope is true as I’d love to read more about the fabulous FBI agents.
June 12, 2026
138 Main Street by Gavin Bell is a fast-paced, high-concept thriller built around a chillingly simple idea: a killer is targeting one address, 138 Main Street. The problem is there are thousands of them across the United States, turning the investigation into a nationwide race against time.
FBI Special Agent Ben Walker and rookie officer Zoe Hill lead the investigation as panic spreads and the murders escalate into something far more than isolated crimes. When the killer releases a manifesto, the case shifts from a hunt for an individual to a broader threat that puts every town in America on edge.
The story is highly readable, driven by short chapters, multiple perspectives, and constant tension that makes it hard to put down. The structure, switching between the investigators, potential victims at various 138 Main Streets, and the unknown killer, adds momentum and keeps the mystery engaging while steadily revealing clues.
Zoe stands out as a particularly strong character, bringing fresh perspective as a young officer pulled into a major FBI task force. Her dynamic with Ben Walker works well and adds grounding to the otherwise chaotic, nationwide investigation.
Overall, the writing is solid and accessible, the pacing is relentless without feeling confusing despite the large cast, and the mystery is carefully layered so readers can follow the clues and piece things together. It’s an engaging thriller with a strong central concept, a compelling investigative duo, and a satisfying build of tension throughout.
FBI Special Agent Ben Walker and rookie officer Zoe Hill lead the investigation as panic spreads and the murders escalate into something far more than isolated crimes. When the killer releases a manifesto, the case shifts from a hunt for an individual to a broader threat that puts every town in America on edge.
The story is highly readable, driven by short chapters, multiple perspectives, and constant tension that makes it hard to put down. The structure, switching between the investigators, potential victims at various 138 Main Streets, and the unknown killer, adds momentum and keeps the mystery engaging while steadily revealing clues.
Zoe stands out as a particularly strong character, bringing fresh perspective as a young officer pulled into a major FBI task force. Her dynamic with Ben Walker works well and adds grounding to the otherwise chaotic, nationwide investigation.
Overall, the writing is solid and accessible, the pacing is relentless without feeling confusing despite the large cast, and the mystery is carefully layered so readers can follow the clues and piece things together. It’s an engaging thriller with a strong central concept, a compelling investigative duo, and a satisfying build of tension throughout.
May 15, 2026
This novel is a deceptively simple high-concept chase thriller: There's a killer on the loose in America and he chooses his victims by their address, murdering people who live at 138 Main Street in towns and cities all over the country. It's an intriguing and unsettling idea from the off.
First, we meet FBI agent Ben Walker, called out to a murder scene at a gated community in Long Island, New York. This is case number three. As he deals with the local cops, a call comes in: case number four has been discovered in Granton, Illinois.
Granton is home and beat to young police officer Zoe Hill, whose attention to detail and perpetual probing at the facts of the case lands her a place on the taskforce Walker is putting together. She soon finds herself in New York - a newbie to the city and to how the FBI handles such a case; she is the outsider taking the reader with her into this unfamiliar world.
Then the New York Times takes delivery of a manuscript. A Manifesto For True Living In America is exactly the long, rambling tirade you imagine it to be. But things aren't quite adding up for Walker's team... But eventually they make the final connections and resolve the case.
You can feel the summer cinema blockbuster power in every page of 138 Main Street - a Jerry Bruckheimer production, perhaps Michael Bay directing; showcasing America with a huge variety of locations, and plenty of action plus heart-in-mouth moments. It's a cracking read.
First, we meet FBI agent Ben Walker, called out to a murder scene at a gated community in Long Island, New York. This is case number three. As he deals with the local cops, a call comes in: case number four has been discovered in Granton, Illinois.
Granton is home and beat to young police officer Zoe Hill, whose attention to detail and perpetual probing at the facts of the case lands her a place on the taskforce Walker is putting together. She soon finds herself in New York - a newbie to the city and to how the FBI handles such a case; she is the outsider taking the reader with her into this unfamiliar world.
Then the New York Times takes delivery of a manuscript. A Manifesto For True Living In America is exactly the long, rambling tirade you imagine it to be. But things aren't quite adding up for Walker's team... But eventually they make the final connections and resolve the case.
You can feel the summer cinema blockbuster power in every page of 138 Main Street - a Jerry Bruckheimer production, perhaps Michael Bay directing; showcasing America with a huge variety of locations, and plenty of action plus heart-in-mouth moments. It's a cracking read.
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