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Behind Every Face
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Expected 26 Jan 27Win a free print copy of this book!
14 days and 16:26:38
100 copies available
U.S. only
Dark secrets, dangerous threats, and jaw-dropping twists for readers of Riley Sager, Jeneva Rose, and Alex Michaelides.
Harmony Falls is a pretty little town in the Pacific Northwest, as bucolic as its name suggests. But Andi Vonn isn’t there by choice. She’s been given a new identity through the Witness Protection Program while she waits to testify against her powerful former employer. Her fiancé, Lucas, was killed before he could do the same, and the explosive case is making national headlines.
Andi has no faith that the FBI will keep her safe. Why should she follow orders from the very people who got Lucas killed? She didn’t even know about her boss’s wrongdoing, yet she’s still facing prison time after the trial. But there’s a key piece of evidence—a flash drive of damning videos—that she can leverage to get immunity, if she can just figure out where Lucas hid it.
The only person who’s as much a target as Andi is Lucas’s brother, celebrated journalist Oliver Whitaker. Holed up in a Maine cabin, he becomes Andi’s long-distance ally as they try and figure out who exactly wants them dead. Meanwhile Andi tries to blend into Harmony Falls without giving herself away, fearing that with every moment, her enemies may be drawing closer.
But then, Harmony Falls may not be quite what it appears to be either. Andi was told that nothing dangerous could find her here. She had no way to know that a nightmare was already lying in wait, ready to silence her forever . . .
Harmony Falls is a pretty little town in the Pacific Northwest, as bucolic as its name suggests. But Andi Vonn isn’t there by choice. She’s been given a new identity through the Witness Protection Program while she waits to testify against her powerful former employer. Her fiancé, Lucas, was killed before he could do the same, and the explosive case is making national headlines.
Andi has no faith that the FBI will keep her safe. Why should she follow orders from the very people who got Lucas killed? She didn’t even know about her boss’s wrongdoing, yet she’s still facing prison time after the trial. But there’s a key piece of evidence—a flash drive of damning videos—that she can leverage to get immunity, if she can just figure out where Lucas hid it.
The only person who’s as much a target as Andi is Lucas’s brother, celebrated journalist Oliver Whitaker. Holed up in a Maine cabin, he becomes Andi’s long-distance ally as they try and figure out who exactly wants them dead. Meanwhile Andi tries to blend into Harmony Falls without giving herself away, fearing that with every moment, her enemies may be drawing closer.
But then, Harmony Falls may not be quite what it appears to be either. Andi was told that nothing dangerous could find her here. She had no way to know that a nightmare was already lying in wait, ready to silence her forever . . .
304 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication January 26, 2027
About the author
Charlie Donlea
28 books15.5k followersCharlie Donlea is the USA TODAY, IndieBound, and #1 Internationally bestselling author of critically acclaimed, propulsive thrillers including THE GIRL WHO WAS TAKEN, DON'T BELIEVE IT, TWENTY YEARS LATER, and THOSE EMPTY EYES. His ninth thriller, GUESS AGAIN, is out now.
Published in 40 countries and translated into twenty-five languages, his books have sold nearly 4 million copies in the U.S. alone.
He spends a part of each year fishing with his father in the far reaches of Canada, where the roads end and lakes are accessible only by floatplane. These majestic trips to “God’s Country” inspired the settings for his novels SUMMIT LAKE and GUESS AGAIN.
He resides in Chicago with his wife and two children.
Published in 40 countries and translated into twenty-five languages, his books have sold nearly 4 million copies in the U.S. alone.
He spends a part of each year fishing with his father in the far reaches of Canada, where the roads end and lakes are accessible only by floatplane. These majestic trips to “God’s Country” inspired the settings for his novels SUMMIT LAKE and GUESS AGAIN.
He resides in Chicago with his wife and two children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 151 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Oh. My. Heart!
For years now, Charlie Donlea has been one of my auto-approved authors, and honestly, at this point I should probably send him my ophthalmologist's bill. Every single one of his books has the exact same side effects on me: panic attacks, hyperventilation, racing heartbeat, bloodshot eyes from staying up until sunrise, and absolutely zero self-control once I begin reading. Sleep? Never heard of her.
Thankfully, Behind Every Face joins the elite club of Donlea's completely unputdownable thrillers. This is one of those wild, adrenaline-fueled roller coaster rides that refuses to let you breathe. Once you climb aboard, there is no jumping off until the final page. It relentlessly tests your nerves, pushes your heart rate into dangerous territory, and keeps whispering, "Just one more chapter..." before suddenly it's three in the morning and you're questioning every life decision that led you here.
From its explosive opening chapter, Charlie Donlea grabs you by the throat and never loosens his grip.
Andi Vonn receives a terrifying phone call from her fiancé, Lucas, ordering her to leave their house immediately because her life is in danger. Within seconds, a mysterious man wearing gloves is already inside the house, and an absolutely pulse-pounding chase begins. The last thing Andi hears through the phone is the sound of gunshots.
At the very same time, Lucas's older brother, Oliver Whitaker—a legendary investigative journalist whose website, The Whitaker Report, attracts millions of readers every day—is rushing to meet Lucas after receiving a cryptic voicemail promising the biggest corruption story of his career. Instead of the scoop of a lifetime, Oliver discovers something far more horrifying: Lucas has been brutally tortured and murdered.
And before Oliver can even process his grief, the killer returns.
With a chainsaw.
Yes... a chainsaw.
Oliver barely escapes with his life by jumping out of a window, only to realize that whoever murdered Lucas believes he possesses a missing flash drive—one powerful enough to expose some of the richest, most influential, and seemingly untouchable people in the country. Suddenly Oliver becomes the hunted instead of the hunter, while Andi is forced into witness protection with a new identity as the FBI races to keep their most important witness alive.
But here's the terrifying question...
If the FBI is involved, local police are pushed out of the investigation, billionaires are desperately covering their tracks, professional killers keep appearing around every corner, and people are willing to torture and murder to recover one tiny flash drive...
Just how dangerous is the truth?
As Oliver's journalistic instincts refuse to let him stop digging, every answer uncovers an even darker secret. Every clue raises the stakes. Every chapter ends with another jaw-dropping revelation. Trust becomes a luxury nobody can afford, and safe havens quickly prove to be nothing more than an illusion.
What I loved most about this novel is that beneath all the breathtaking action, relentless suspense, and shocking twists, there is a surprisingly emotional story about family, loyalty, sacrifice, and loss. The heartbreaking relationship between Lucas and Andi adds genuine emotional weight to the mystery, while the bond between the Whitaker brothers gives Oliver's investigation an intensely personal purpose. He isn't chasing a headline anymore—he's chasing justice.
Charlie Donlea masterfully balances explosive action sequences with intelligent investigative journalism, political corruption, emotional character development, and twist after twist that made me question absolutely everyone. Every time I thought I had figured things out, he effortlessly pulled the rug out from under me.
This is exactly the kind of thriller I crave: razor-sharp, brilliantly plotted, incredibly cinematic, lightning-fast, and so addictive that putting it down feels physically impossible. The pacing never slows, the tension never lets up, and every chapter demands that you read "just one more."
If you're looking for a nerve-bending, heart-stopping, pulse-racing thriller packed with conspiracies, political corruption, dangerous secrets, relentless suspense, and enough twists to leave your jaw permanently attached to the floor, Behind Every Face deserves an immediate spot at the top of your reading list.
Charlie Donlea has done it again, and honestly, I don't know whether to thank him or demand compensation for another sleepless night.
Millions of thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for sharing this brilliantly crafted, utterly addictive thriller with me in exchange for my honest thoughts.
For years now, Charlie Donlea has been one of my auto-approved authors, and honestly, at this point I should probably send him my ophthalmologist's bill. Every single one of his books has the exact same side effects on me: panic attacks, hyperventilation, racing heartbeat, bloodshot eyes from staying up until sunrise, and absolutely zero self-control once I begin reading. Sleep? Never heard of her.
Thankfully, Behind Every Face joins the elite club of Donlea's completely unputdownable thrillers. This is one of those wild, adrenaline-fueled roller coaster rides that refuses to let you breathe. Once you climb aboard, there is no jumping off until the final page. It relentlessly tests your nerves, pushes your heart rate into dangerous territory, and keeps whispering, "Just one more chapter..." before suddenly it's three in the morning and you're questioning every life decision that led you here.
From its explosive opening chapter, Charlie Donlea grabs you by the throat and never loosens his grip.
Andi Vonn receives a terrifying phone call from her fiancé, Lucas, ordering her to leave their house immediately because her life is in danger. Within seconds, a mysterious man wearing gloves is already inside the house, and an absolutely pulse-pounding chase begins. The last thing Andi hears through the phone is the sound of gunshots.
At the very same time, Lucas's older brother, Oliver Whitaker—a legendary investigative journalist whose website, The Whitaker Report, attracts millions of readers every day—is rushing to meet Lucas after receiving a cryptic voicemail promising the biggest corruption story of his career. Instead of the scoop of a lifetime, Oliver discovers something far more horrifying: Lucas has been brutally tortured and murdered.
And before Oliver can even process his grief, the killer returns.
With a chainsaw.
Yes... a chainsaw.
Oliver barely escapes with his life by jumping out of a window, only to realize that whoever murdered Lucas believes he possesses a missing flash drive—one powerful enough to expose some of the richest, most influential, and seemingly untouchable people in the country. Suddenly Oliver becomes the hunted instead of the hunter, while Andi is forced into witness protection with a new identity as the FBI races to keep their most important witness alive.
But here's the terrifying question...
If the FBI is involved, local police are pushed out of the investigation, billionaires are desperately covering their tracks, professional killers keep appearing around every corner, and people are willing to torture and murder to recover one tiny flash drive...
Just how dangerous is the truth?
As Oliver's journalistic instincts refuse to let him stop digging, every answer uncovers an even darker secret. Every clue raises the stakes. Every chapter ends with another jaw-dropping revelation. Trust becomes a luxury nobody can afford, and safe havens quickly prove to be nothing more than an illusion.
What I loved most about this novel is that beneath all the breathtaking action, relentless suspense, and shocking twists, there is a surprisingly emotional story about family, loyalty, sacrifice, and loss. The heartbreaking relationship between Lucas and Andi adds genuine emotional weight to the mystery, while the bond between the Whitaker brothers gives Oliver's investigation an intensely personal purpose. He isn't chasing a headline anymore—he's chasing justice.
Charlie Donlea masterfully balances explosive action sequences with intelligent investigative journalism, political corruption, emotional character development, and twist after twist that made me question absolutely everyone. Every time I thought I had figured things out, he effortlessly pulled the rug out from under me.
This is exactly the kind of thriller I crave: razor-sharp, brilliantly plotted, incredibly cinematic, lightning-fast, and so addictive that putting it down feels physically impossible. The pacing never slows, the tension never lets up, and every chapter demands that you read "just one more."
If you're looking for a nerve-bending, heart-stopping, pulse-racing thriller packed with conspiracies, political corruption, dangerous secrets, relentless suspense, and enough twists to leave your jaw permanently attached to the floor, Behind Every Face deserves an immediate spot at the top of your reading list.
Charlie Donlea has done it again, and honestly, I don't know whether to thank him or demand compensation for another sleepless night.
Millions of thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for sharing this brilliantly crafted, utterly addictive thriller with me in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I just have to say that Charlie Donlea is one of the most consistent thriller writers out there. He always delivers.
RTC 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
RTC 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
July 28, 2026
In true Charlie fashion, this was like lots of puzzle pieces that came together so perfectly. His books are so clever and sophisticated whilst being still easy to read. The short chapters make it absolutely easy to devour, ‘one more chapter’ the entire time. This was about corruption, bad people and blackmail. I loved every minute of it. Thank you Kensington for my copy.
July 19, 2026
Behind Every Face by Charlie Donlea is another fast-paced, suspense-filled thriller that kept me hooked from beginning to end. This is one of those books that was nearly impossible to put down because every chapter revealed another twist or unanswered question.
The story follows Andi and Luca, two FBI informants working undercover to help build a case against their own boss. When the operation spirals out of control, Andi is forced into witness protection while Luca is believed to be dead. Meanwhile, Luca's brother, Ollie, a reporter, is desperately trying to piece together the truth while finding himself hunted as well.
The novel also tackles some very dark subject matter, including human trafficking, pedophilia, political corruption, and the lengths powerful people will go to protect their secrets. These elements make for a tense and gripping story with plenty of unexpected turns.
Charlie Donlea once again proves why he's one of my favorite thriller authors. His storytelling is compelling, the pacing is relentless, and the mystery keeps you guessing until the very end!
The story follows Andi and Luca, two FBI informants working undercover to help build a case against their own boss. When the operation spirals out of control, Andi is forced into witness protection while Luca is believed to be dead. Meanwhile, Luca's brother, Ollie, a reporter, is desperately trying to piece together the truth while finding himself hunted as well.
The novel also tackles some very dark subject matter, including human trafficking, pedophilia, political corruption, and the lengths powerful people will go to protect their secrets. These elements make for a tense and gripping story with plenty of unexpected turns.
Charlie Donlea once again proves why he's one of my favorite thriller authors. His storytelling is compelling, the pacing is relentless, and the mystery keeps you guessing until the very end!
July 9, 2026
Thank you NetGalley and Kensington for the gifted ARC!
I’ve been a huge fan of Charlie Donlea for a few years now, ever since I read Twenty Years Later. While I’ve been slowly making my way through his backlist, I’ve also been trying to stay caught up on his new releases, and somehow they just keep getting better.
This one was so addicting that I read most of it in one sitting. As someone who values her sleep over just about everything, I even stayed up almost an hour past my bedtime because I had to know how it ended. The plot was clearly inspired by some real-world events, which made everything feel even more unsettling. The short chapters, multiple POVs, and nonstop pacing made it so easy to keep turning the pages. Every chapter seemed to reveal something new, and I never felt like the story slowed down.
One thing Charlie Donlea always does well is make me care about the characters just as much as the mystery. I wasn’t only trying to figure out what was going on, I was genuinely rooting for everyone to make it out alive, which made the stakes feel even higher. My only small complaint was the ending. It wrapped up a little quicker than I wanted, and I would have loved just a bit more from the epilogue. That didn’t affect my rating at all though.
If you’re looking for a fast-paced thriller that will keep you saying “just one more chapter,” Charlie Donlea continues to prove why he’s one of my favorite thriller authors.
I’ve been a huge fan of Charlie Donlea for a few years now, ever since I read Twenty Years Later. While I’ve been slowly making my way through his backlist, I’ve also been trying to stay caught up on his new releases, and somehow they just keep getting better.
This one was so addicting that I read most of it in one sitting. As someone who values her sleep over just about everything, I even stayed up almost an hour past my bedtime because I had to know how it ended. The plot was clearly inspired by some real-world events, which made everything feel even more unsettling. The short chapters, multiple POVs, and nonstop pacing made it so easy to keep turning the pages. Every chapter seemed to reveal something new, and I never felt like the story slowed down.
One thing Charlie Donlea always does well is make me care about the characters just as much as the mystery. I wasn’t only trying to figure out what was going on, I was genuinely rooting for everyone to make it out alive, which made the stakes feel even higher. My only small complaint was the ending. It wrapped up a little quicker than I wanted, and I would have loved just a bit more from the epilogue. That didn’t affect my rating at all though.
If you’re looking for a fast-paced thriller that will keep you saying “just one more chapter,” Charlie Donlea continues to prove why he’s one of my favorite thriller authors.
July 9, 2026
3.5 stars. I swear I did enjoy this book. There was a lot going on and I couldn’t wait to find out what was happening. However, this was a little too on the nose with Epstein. They even called it a Davis List. While using the idea is not bad at all, it just kind of seemed too close to what actually happened so it made it seem like less of an original story to me.
Thank you to NetGalley for this arc!
Thank you to NetGalley for this arc!
July 29, 2026
Behind Every Face by Charlie Donlea
Publishing date - 01/26/27
Rating (5/5) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for this e-arc. I’m really enjoying Charlie Donlea’s books. Behind Every Face did not disappoint: dark secrets, dangerous threats, and jaw-dropping twists! This story is told through multiple POVs and shifts between the past and present making it a page turner from page one until the very end. Highly recommend this one when it releases next year.
Publishing date - 01/26/27
Rating (5/5) ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for this e-arc. I’m really enjoying Charlie Donlea’s books. Behind Every Face did not disappoint: dark secrets, dangerous threats, and jaw-dropping twists! This story is told through multiple POVs and shifts between the past and present making it a page turner from page one until the very end. Highly recommend this one when it releases next year.
August 1, 2026
Another solid thriller from Donlea! This one is certainly timely and clearly inspired by recent political corruption and the Epstein files. I thoroughly enjoyed the fast paced element— I had been in a real slump prior to this book but found myself wanting to keep reading.
reading-next-arc-approvals
July 23, 2026PUBLISH DATE: Jan 26, 2027
BOOK TITLE: Behind Every Face
AUTHOR: Charlie Donlea
PUBLISHER: Kensington Publishing
FORMAT: ebook
PAGES: 304
I received a complimentary digital ARC [Advanced Readers Copy] of this book via NetGalley. Thank you to the Publisher and the Author for the opportunity to read and review this title prior to publication. As always, the opinions expressed in this review are my own.
BOOK TITLE: Behind Every Face
AUTHOR: Charlie Donlea
PUBLISHER: Kensington Publishing
FORMAT: ebook
PAGES: 304
I received a complimentary digital ARC [Advanced Readers Copy] of this book via NetGalley. Thank you to the Publisher and the Author for the opportunity to read and review this title prior to publication. As always, the opinions expressed in this review are my own.
July 4, 2026
I’m not quite sure how Charlie Donlea does it but he consistently delivers 5 star thrillers. Every. single. time.
In a book slump? Pick up a Charlie Donlea book. Want something that you can read in a day? Pick up a Charlie Donlea book.
This book wastes no time getting started. Andi gets a phone call from her fiancé Lucas. “Get out of the house, they know everything.” From there it is nonstop action with several twists that left my mouth on the floor.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC!
In a book slump? Pick up a Charlie Donlea book. Want something that you can read in a day? Pick up a Charlie Donlea book.
This book wastes no time getting started. Andi gets a phone call from her fiancé Lucas. “Get out of the house, they know everything.” From there it is nonstop action with several twists that left my mouth on the floor.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC!
July 14, 2026
**Thank you NetGalley and Kensington Books for the digital ARC of this book.
Charlie Donlea has done it again! Behind Every Face is an intense, fast-paced thriller that kept me hooked from beginning to end.
The story unfolds through multiple points of view and centers on Oliver Whitaker, a multimillionaire and the well-known author of the Whitaker Report. When Oliver receives a cryptic final voicemail from his brother, Lucas, he discovers that Lucas had uncovered a massive conspiracy involving his billionaire employer, a missing flash drive, and some of the world’s most powerful and influential people. As Oliver digs deeper, he learns that both Lucas and his girlfriend, Andi, were entangled with the FBI. Before long, it becomes clear that Oliver isn’t the only one searching for the flash drive, and there are dangerous people willing to do anything to get to it first.
This book was an absolute wild ride. If life hadn’t gotten in the way, I easily could have finished it in a single sitting. The pacing never lets up, and every chapter seemed to reveal another twist or raise the stakes even higher.
Despite having multiple points of view and a large cast of characters, the story is incredibly well organized. I never felt lost or overwhelmed, and Donlea expertly balanced all of the moving pieces. The characters were easy to connect with, the suspense was relentless, and several twists completely caught me by surprise. The conclusion was incredibly satisfying and tied everything together beautifully.
If you enjoy thrillers filled with political scandals, billionaires, Hollywood elites, FBI investigations, assassins, and shocking twists, this is one you won’t want to miss.
Charlie Donlea continues to prove why he’s one of my auto-buy authors. Behind Every Face is an easy five-star read, and I highly recommend it.
Charlie Donlea has done it again! Behind Every Face is an intense, fast-paced thriller that kept me hooked from beginning to end.
The story unfolds through multiple points of view and centers on Oliver Whitaker, a multimillionaire and the well-known author of the Whitaker Report. When Oliver receives a cryptic final voicemail from his brother, Lucas, he discovers that Lucas had uncovered a massive conspiracy involving his billionaire employer, a missing flash drive, and some of the world’s most powerful and influential people. As Oliver digs deeper, he learns that both Lucas and his girlfriend, Andi, were entangled with the FBI. Before long, it becomes clear that Oliver isn’t the only one searching for the flash drive, and there are dangerous people willing to do anything to get to it first.
This book was an absolute wild ride. If life hadn’t gotten in the way, I easily could have finished it in a single sitting. The pacing never lets up, and every chapter seemed to reveal another twist or raise the stakes even higher.
Despite having multiple points of view and a large cast of characters, the story is incredibly well organized. I never felt lost or overwhelmed, and Donlea expertly balanced all of the moving pieces. The characters were easy to connect with, the suspense was relentless, and several twists completely caught me by surprise. The conclusion was incredibly satisfying and tied everything together beautifully.
If you enjoy thrillers filled with political scandals, billionaires, Hollywood elites, FBI investigations, assassins, and shocking twists, this is one you won’t want to miss.
Charlie Donlea continues to prove why he’s one of my auto-buy authors. Behind Every Face is an easy five-star read, and I highly recommend it.
July 18, 2026
Wow! This book started with a bang and it never slowed down! This was my first ever read by Charlie Donlea and it did not disappoint.
Andi Vonn receives a phone call in the middle of the night from her fiancé Lucas to “Get out of the house, they know everything!” Some very dangerous people are on their way to get her and she has minutes to disappear. During the call she hears a loud bang on her fiancé’s end of the line and the phone goes dead, followed by her downstairs window breaking.
Ollie Whitaker, a famous tabloid writer, receives a phone call from his brother Lucas. Asking him to meet at a discreet location, making sure he’s not followed. Lucas states he has insider information for Ollie’s tabloid that is going to bring down some of the biggest names of some very powerful people. This will be Ollie’s story of a lifetime! When Ollie arrives to meet his brother, he finds him lying dead in a pool of blood with the murderer coming back to finish cleaning up the scene.
This book is written in multiple POVs and pieces the story together in small increments that creates crazy stressful tension. Just when you think you know who is going after who, or what someone’s involvement is in how things are playing out, you’re left turned around and sitting in shock. There are so many twists and turns that make this book unpredictable. This is a fast-paced, multi-layered read with dark and complex themes. Behind Every Face is a fitting title, because everyone seems to have their own agenda for their actions, even if they put on a different face to the public or their family.
Thank you to Kensington Publishing and NetGalley for the eARC in return for my honest review.
Andi Vonn receives a phone call in the middle of the night from her fiancé Lucas to “Get out of the house, they know everything!” Some very dangerous people are on their way to get her and she has minutes to disappear. During the call she hears a loud bang on her fiancé’s end of the line and the phone goes dead, followed by her downstairs window breaking.
Ollie Whitaker, a famous tabloid writer, receives a phone call from his brother Lucas. Asking him to meet at a discreet location, making sure he’s not followed. Lucas states he has insider information for Ollie’s tabloid that is going to bring down some of the biggest names of some very powerful people. This will be Ollie’s story of a lifetime! When Ollie arrives to meet his brother, he finds him lying dead in a pool of blood with the murderer coming back to finish cleaning up the scene.
This book is written in multiple POVs and pieces the story together in small increments that creates crazy stressful tension. Just when you think you know who is going after who, or what someone’s involvement is in how things are playing out, you’re left turned around and sitting in shock. There are so many twists and turns that make this book unpredictable. This is a fast-paced, multi-layered read with dark and complex themes. Behind Every Face is a fitting title, because everyone seems to have their own agenda for their actions, even if they put on a different face to the public or their family.
Thank you to Kensington Publishing and NetGalley for the eARC in return for my honest review.
July 30, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
I've loved everything Charlie Donlea has written so far, so I was thrilled to receive this ARC—and it definitely lived up to my expectations.
This was an incredibly fast-paced, action-packed thriller that grabs your attention from the very first chapter. The story follows a couple who suddenly find themselves caught in the middle of an FBI investigation and are given an impossible choice: become informants or face jail time.
From there, the story races forward with shocking twists, murders, car chases, and nonstop suspense. I especially enjoyed the multiple points of view and the way the author scattered clues throughout the novel. At first, the puzzle pieces seem completely unrelated, but everything comes together brilliantly in the final chapters.
This was an outstanding read that kept me hooked from beginning to end. Charlie Donlea once again proves why he's one of my favorite thriller authors, and I can't wait to see what he writes next!
I've loved everything Charlie Donlea has written so far, so I was thrilled to receive this ARC—and it definitely lived up to my expectations.
This was an incredibly fast-paced, action-packed thriller that grabs your attention from the very first chapter. The story follows a couple who suddenly find themselves caught in the middle of an FBI investigation and are given an impossible choice: become informants or face jail time.
From there, the story races forward with shocking twists, murders, car chases, and nonstop suspense. I especially enjoyed the multiple points of view and the way the author scattered clues throughout the novel. At first, the puzzle pieces seem completely unrelated, but everything comes together brilliantly in the final chapters.
This was an outstanding read that kept me hooked from beginning to end. Charlie Donlea once again proves why he's one of my favorite thriller authors, and I can't wait to see what he writes next!
August 3, 2026
Life imitates art! Donlea did it again with another gripping novel that left me locked in from start to finish. I enjoyed the "ripped from the headlines" theme of this book as it seemed to be a little different than his previous books, while still holding onto to that Charlie Donlea writing style.
I have read every single one of his books and will continue to every time a new one hits the shelves!
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington publishers for the arc! I am so lucky I was able to read this before the masses!
I have read every single one of his books and will continue to every time a new one hits the shelves!
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington publishers for the arc! I am so lucky I was able to read this before the masses!
August 3, 2026
BEHIND EVERY FACE is an expertly plotted thriller that will leave your jaw on the floor.
Charlie Donlea has done it again! BEHIND EVERY FACE follows Andi Vonn, a woman who has been given a new identity through the Witness Protection Program after her fiance was killed. As the story unfolds, a web of lies and deception threaten the safety of the characters.
This is an incredibly twisty, high stakes thriller that begins on page one. The short chapters make it nearly impossible not to devour this book in one sitting.
Donlea left no stones unturned. Oliver Whitaker is a popular journalist who is willing to take risks in order to get justice for his brother. The characters are layered and each of their perspectives added to the story.
The twists are perfectly timed and made it difficult to wrap my head around making any predictions. I was fully along for the ride!
BEHIND EVERY FACE is a suspenseful thriller that will have you on the edge of your seat. You’ll want to discuss it with someone immediately.
Charlie Donlea has done it again! BEHIND EVERY FACE follows Andi Vonn, a woman who has been given a new identity through the Witness Protection Program after her fiance was killed. As the story unfolds, a web of lies and deception threaten the safety of the characters.
This is an incredibly twisty, high stakes thriller that begins on page one. The short chapters make it nearly impossible not to devour this book in one sitting.
Donlea left no stones unturned. Oliver Whitaker is a popular journalist who is willing to take risks in order to get justice for his brother. The characters are layered and each of their perspectives added to the story.
The twists are perfectly timed and made it difficult to wrap my head around making any predictions. I was fully along for the ride!
BEHIND EVERY FACE is a suspenseful thriller that will have you on the edge of your seat. You’ll want to discuss it with someone immediately.
Read
June 20, 2026Behind Every Face by Charlie Donlea is the latest breathtaking novel. The hardback is Deluxe Edition with Stenciled Edges published by Kensington Publishing and worth every penny.
A gripping suspenseful story.
Ollie is a media legend and multimillionaire. When his brother Lucas send a mysterious email before he gets unalived, Oliie and Lucas' fiancee Andi investigate together. But soon they're in a race against time and enemies that come closer and closer. Twisty and full of unexpected turns that book is literally unputdownable. Dark, secretive, complex, fast paced, just my thing. 2027is up for a great bookish start, 5 stars.
A gripping suspenseful story.
Ollie is a media legend and multimillionaire. When his brother Lucas send a mysterious email before he gets unalived, Oliie and Lucas' fiancee Andi investigate together. But soon they're in a race against time and enemies that come closer and closer. Twisty and full of unexpected turns that book is literally unputdownable. Dark, secretive, complex, fast paced, just my thing. 2027is up for a great bookish start, 5 stars.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
If you're looking for a novel that hurtles forward with the force of a runaway train, Charlie Donlea once again proves he is a master of the high-stakes thriller. This is an intricately constructed, pulse-pounding novel that is virtually impossible to put down. Every chapter ratchets up the tension, every revelation raises the stakes, and every twist compels you to read just one more page. Clear your schedule—you'll need uninterrupted time to devour it.
Lucas Whitaker and Andi Vonn are not only lovers but also ambitious colleagues at Davis Capital, where billion-dollar financial deals and enormous profits are simply part of the daily landscape. Their seemingly charmed lives take a perilous turn when the FBI approaches them with evidence that corruption runs deep within their firm. Agreeing to cooperate with the investigation, they expect to expose financial misconduct. Instead, they stumble into a labyrinthine conspiracy that reaches far beyond corporate fraud, entangling powerful political figures and individuals whose influence makes them nearly untouchable.
Realizing the magnitude of what he has uncovered, Lucas urgently summons his brother Ollie, an acclaimed investigative journalist, promising him the story of a lifetime. But when Ollie arrives, he discovers Lucas murdered, his killer still at the scene. In his final moments, Lucas also manages to warn Andi: "They know everything...run for your life."
From that moment, the novel becomes a breathtaking race against time as Ollie and Andi struggle to unravel a conspiracy where every answer breeds new questions and every ally could be an enemy. Donlea expertly layers financial intrigue, political corruption, and deeply personal stakes into a narrative of remarkable complexity, never sacrificing clarity or momentum. The plot unfolds with meticulous precision, rewarding attentive readers while maintaining an almost unbearable level of suspense.
The action is relentless, but what truly distinguishes this novel is its intelligence. Donlea crafts a sophisticated mystery in which the intricate web of deception is as captivating as the breakneck pace. Just when you think you've deciphered the puzzle, he delivers a stunning final twist that is both surprising and entirely earned—a conclusion I genuinely never saw coming.
Charlie Donlea continues to cement his reputation as one of today's finest thriller writers. For readers who crave a novel that combines cerebral complexity with exhilarating suspense, this is an absolute must-read. Run, don't walk, to discover an author who consistently raises the bar for the modern thriller.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in return for an honest review.
Lucas Whitaker and Andi Vonn are not only lovers but also ambitious colleagues at Davis Capital, where billion-dollar financial deals and enormous profits are simply part of the daily landscape. Their seemingly charmed lives take a perilous turn when the FBI approaches them with evidence that corruption runs deep within their firm. Agreeing to cooperate with the investigation, they expect to expose financial misconduct. Instead, they stumble into a labyrinthine conspiracy that reaches far beyond corporate fraud, entangling powerful political figures and individuals whose influence makes them nearly untouchable.
Realizing the magnitude of what he has uncovered, Lucas urgently summons his brother Ollie, an acclaimed investigative journalist, promising him the story of a lifetime. But when Ollie arrives, he discovers Lucas murdered, his killer still at the scene. In his final moments, Lucas also manages to warn Andi: "They know everything...run for your life."
From that moment, the novel becomes a breathtaking race against time as Ollie and Andi struggle to unravel a conspiracy where every answer breeds new questions and every ally could be an enemy. Donlea expertly layers financial intrigue, political corruption, and deeply personal stakes into a narrative of remarkable complexity, never sacrificing clarity or momentum. The plot unfolds with meticulous precision, rewarding attentive readers while maintaining an almost unbearable level of suspense.
The action is relentless, but what truly distinguishes this novel is its intelligence. Donlea crafts a sophisticated mystery in which the intricate web of deception is as captivating as the breakneck pace. Just when you think you've deciphered the puzzle, he delivers a stunning final twist that is both surprising and entirely earned—a conclusion I genuinely never saw coming.
Charlie Donlea continues to cement his reputation as one of today's finest thriller writers. For readers who crave a novel that combines cerebral complexity with exhilarating suspense, this is an absolute must-read. Run, don't walk, to discover an author who consistently raises the bar for the modern thriller.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in return for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Charlie Donlea has delivered another riveting, tension filled, and gripping mystery thriller! Behind Every Face was hard to put down, well thought out, and thrilling. The stakes are high and getting higher with each page. This book kept me on my toes and wondering how everything was going to come together. Behind Every Face starts out strong and never loses steam! This book is full of secrets, power plays, danger, suspense, and dread! Like the characters in this book, I never knew who could be trusted or what was coming next!
Lucas Whitaker made two calls at the beginning of this book. One is to his brother, Oliver (Ollie) who is an investigative journalist, and one to Andi Vonn, his fiancé. Lucas let his brother know that he has a major scoop and to come to his office immediately. He frantically calls Andi to tell her that "they know" and to get out! My heart was pounding and my interest was piqued!!!!!! When the FBI and a local police officer begin to investigate the events that unfolded after those two phone calls, things ramp into high gear.
I enjoyed how Behind Every Face is told through the POV of several characters and shows two timelines. There are quite a few characters and story acr's and at times I did not know how or why they were important, but I have read enough books by Charlie Donlea (9 in total) to know that everything would come together in the end. As the suspense, tension, and danger mounted, I could not get enough of this book. I had to know more - no, I needed to know more. As everything came together, I was left feeling completely satisfied having read a wonderfully written, well thought out, gripping page turner!
*A wonderful Witches Words buddy read with Carolyn and Dorie - Cats&Books :)! Please read their reviews to get their thoughts on Behind Every Face!
Thank you to Kensington Publishing and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Lucas Whitaker made two calls at the beginning of this book. One is to his brother, Oliver (Ollie) who is an investigative journalist, and one to Andi Vonn, his fiancé. Lucas let his brother know that he has a major scoop and to come to his office immediately. He frantically calls Andi to tell her that "they know" and to get out! My heart was pounding and my interest was piqued!!!!!! When the FBI and a local police officer begin to investigate the events that unfolded after those two phone calls, things ramp into high gear.
I enjoyed how Behind Every Face is told through the POV of several characters and shows two timelines. There are quite a few characters and story acr's and at times I did not know how or why they were important, but I have read enough books by Charlie Donlea (9 in total) to know that everything would come together in the end. As the suspense, tension, and danger mounted, I could not get enough of this book. I had to know more - no, I needed to know more. As everything came together, I was left feeling completely satisfied having read a wonderfully written, well thought out, gripping page turner!
*A wonderful Witches Words buddy read with Carolyn and Dorie - Cats&Books :)! Please read their reviews to get their thoughts on Behind Every Face!
Thank you to Kensington Publishing and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A High-Stakes, Paranoid Ride—Classic Donlea with a Brilliant Witness Protection Twist!
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (Solid 4 Stars)
As someone who reads a lot of thrillers, I am always on the hunt for a plot that can actually keep me guessing without relying on cheap tricks. Charlie Donlea is usually a reliable bet for a gripping read, and Behind Every Face absolutely delivers on the suspense. It’s a fast-paced, multi-layered conspiracy thriller that kept me turning the pages late into the night.
The setup hooked me immediately. We follow Oliver Whitaker, a media mogul whose world is upended by a final, cryptic voicemail from his brother Lucas just before he's murdered. From there, the story spirals into a massive blackmail ring involving a missing flash drive, a billionaire employer, and dozens of untouchable, high-profile figures.
What really worked for me was the dual perspective and the cat-and-mouse tension. On one side, you have Ollie running for his life and trying to piece together his brother’s final clues from a remote cabin in Maine. On the other side, you have Lucas’s fiancée, Andi Vonn, who has been placed in a supposedly "safe" witness protection town in the Pacific Northwest called Harmony Falls.
I loved the atmosphere in the Harmony Falls chapters. Donlea does a fantastic job building a deep sense of isolation and creeping dread around Andi. You can feel her paranoia—she doesn't trust the FBI, she doesn't know who is watching her, and she's desperately trying to figure out where Lucas hid the flash drive so she can use it as leverage for her own immunity. The long-distance alliance that forms between Andi and Ollie is brilliant, and watching them work together while being hunted from different corners of the country kept the stakes incredibly high.
My only minor gripe—and the reason it’s a strong 4 stars instead of a perfect 5—is that with so many moving pieces, a frantic news media, the FBI, and a massive web of powerful enemies, a few of the secondary plot lines felt slightly rushed toward the end. I wanted a little more time to breathe with certain twists.
That said, if you love a propulsive, high-stakes political suspense novel where absolutely no one is safe and the tension never drops, you will thoroughly enjoy this one. It’s an addictive, clever puzzle that proves once again why Donlea is a master of the genre. Highly recommended!
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (Solid 4 Stars)
As someone who reads a lot of thrillers, I am always on the hunt for a plot that can actually keep me guessing without relying on cheap tricks. Charlie Donlea is usually a reliable bet for a gripping read, and Behind Every Face absolutely delivers on the suspense. It’s a fast-paced, multi-layered conspiracy thriller that kept me turning the pages late into the night.
The setup hooked me immediately. We follow Oliver Whitaker, a media mogul whose world is upended by a final, cryptic voicemail from his brother Lucas just before he's murdered. From there, the story spirals into a massive blackmail ring involving a missing flash drive, a billionaire employer, and dozens of untouchable, high-profile figures.
What really worked for me was the dual perspective and the cat-and-mouse tension. On one side, you have Ollie running for his life and trying to piece together his brother’s final clues from a remote cabin in Maine. On the other side, you have Lucas’s fiancée, Andi Vonn, who has been placed in a supposedly "safe" witness protection town in the Pacific Northwest called Harmony Falls.
I loved the atmosphere in the Harmony Falls chapters. Donlea does a fantastic job building a deep sense of isolation and creeping dread around Andi. You can feel her paranoia—she doesn't trust the FBI, she doesn't know who is watching her, and she's desperately trying to figure out where Lucas hid the flash drive so she can use it as leverage for her own immunity. The long-distance alliance that forms between Andi and Ollie is brilliant, and watching them work together while being hunted from different corners of the country kept the stakes incredibly high.
My only minor gripe—and the reason it’s a strong 4 stars instead of a perfect 5—is that with so many moving pieces, a frantic news media, the FBI, and a massive web of powerful enemies, a few of the secondary plot lines felt slightly rushed toward the end. I wanted a little more time to breathe with certain twists.
That said, if you love a propulsive, high-stakes political suspense novel where absolutely no one is safe and the tension never drops, you will thoroughly enjoy this one. It’s an addictive, clever puzzle that proves once again why Donlea is a master of the genre. Highly recommended!
July 12, 2026
3.5 ⭐️ Enjoyed this!
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for the ARC! Release date: January 26, 2027.
You’ll like this if you enjoy:
• fast-paced thrillers
• corporate/business scandals
• investigative stories with forensic elements
• multiple POVs that are easy to follow
• plot twists that keep you guessing
About the Book:
When his brother is murdered after hinting at a major scandal, investigative journalist Oliver Whitaker is thrust into a deadly race to uncover the truth before those responsible silence him for good.
My thoughts:
This ended up being an enjoyable thriller for me, though it took a little while to fully pull me in.
I tend to be a character-driven reader, even with thrillers, so I need to feel connected to the characters before I’m fully invested in the story. That connection took some time for me here. Readers who like to jump straight into the action and prioritize plot over character development will probably enjoy this even more than I did.
Once I had a better grasp on the different perspectives and where the story was heading, I stayed engaged. Shelby’s storyline ended up being the one I was most invested in, and I found myself caring more about several of the main characters as the book progressed. I also appreciated that, despite having multiple POVs, they were much easier to follow than I expected.
The pacing is quick throughout. The writing keeps the story moving, sometimes summarizing events and other times slowing down to flesh out the moments that matter most. While I would have liked a little more character depth, I think this style works well for readers who primarily read thrillers for the plot and momentum.
I guessed part of the twist around the 60-70% mark, but not the full reveal. The final 20% was my favorite part of the book, and I thought the ending did a satisfying job of bringing all the pieces together.
Overall, this was a fast-paced thriller with an engaging mystery, multiple well-managed perspectives, and a satisfying ending. While I would have loved deeper character development, I enjoyed the ride and would definitely read another Charlie Donlea novel.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for the ARC! Release date: January 26, 2027.
You’ll like this if you enjoy:
• fast-paced thrillers
• corporate/business scandals
• investigative stories with forensic elements
• multiple POVs that are easy to follow
• plot twists that keep you guessing
About the Book:
When his brother is murdered after hinting at a major scandal, investigative journalist Oliver Whitaker is thrust into a deadly race to uncover the truth before those responsible silence him for good.
My thoughts:
This ended up being an enjoyable thriller for me, though it took a little while to fully pull me in.
I tend to be a character-driven reader, even with thrillers, so I need to feel connected to the characters before I’m fully invested in the story. That connection took some time for me here. Readers who like to jump straight into the action and prioritize plot over character development will probably enjoy this even more than I did.
Once I had a better grasp on the different perspectives and where the story was heading, I stayed engaged. Shelby’s storyline ended up being the one I was most invested in, and I found myself caring more about several of the main characters as the book progressed. I also appreciated that, despite having multiple POVs, they were much easier to follow than I expected.
The pacing is quick throughout. The writing keeps the story moving, sometimes summarizing events and other times slowing down to flesh out the moments that matter most. While I would have liked a little more character depth, I think this style works well for readers who primarily read thrillers for the plot and momentum.
I guessed part of the twist around the 60-70% mark, but not the full reveal. The final 20% was my favorite part of the book, and I thought the ending did a satisfying job of bringing all the pieces together.
Overall, this was a fast-paced thriller with an engaging mystery, multiple well-managed perspectives, and a satisfying ending. While I would have loved deeper character development, I enjoyed the ride and would definitely read another Charlie Donlea novel.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
The expressions one will discover Behind Every Face depend on the reader. We begin with an effective, violently gripping opening, and are dragged into the story’s orbit immediately. Early chapters, heavily plot driven, do a solid job of staying on track, and the author develops characters more complex than the simple 2D plug and play figurines common in the genre. We spiral into a deadly financial conspiracy, and a believable social media component develops as a journalist pilots trouble from a website something like The Daily Wire on steroids. He uploads directly to the highways of the world wide web, effectively keeping the authorities and bad guys afraid of what might next be made public.
While the first half keeps you engaged, new actors are introduced as late as the two-thirds mark. As the plot and character list expands, it becomes a lot to follow. Often if you miss a detail, don't fret, for a scene occurs (show), followed by one character summarizing events to another (tell). We get them both, thank you very much. A lot is thrown at the wall here – financial conspiracy, relationship drama, sex trafficking, blackmail – so different themes will stick for different readers. An over-the-top assassin appears later in the book, Sable Moreau, perhaps the most unique of the extensive cast members. We all appreciate a smartly created baddie, but I'm not sure she's that. Memorable for sure.
Near the end, the plot rips at the seams with scenes busily jumping in no clear order, from a housewife planning an escape, violence at an FBI safe house, an abused victim seeking revenge, the reporter digging for the truth, the FBI Director being spied upon, an overzealous senator - at one point an investigator from the opening chapters reappears who had been absent for so long I forget she’s crucial to the story. Pushing through the bloated last quarter does reward the reader with a surprising, competent finale. It’s better for an author to try to do too much than not enough, so recommended with caveats.
Thanks to Edelweiss+ and Kensington Publishing for a review copy.
While the first half keeps you engaged, new actors are introduced as late as the two-thirds mark. As the plot and character list expands, it becomes a lot to follow. Often if you miss a detail, don't fret, for a scene occurs (show), followed by one character summarizing events to another (tell). We get them both, thank you very much. A lot is thrown at the wall here – financial conspiracy, relationship drama, sex trafficking, blackmail – so different themes will stick for different readers. An over-the-top assassin appears later in the book, Sable Moreau, perhaps the most unique of the extensive cast members. We all appreciate a smartly created baddie, but I'm not sure she's that. Memorable for sure.
Near the end, the plot rips at the seams with scenes busily jumping in no clear order, from a housewife planning an escape, violence at an FBI safe house, an abused victim seeking revenge, the reporter digging for the truth, the FBI Director being spied upon, an overzealous senator - at one point an investigator from the opening chapters reappears who had been absent for so long I forget she’s crucial to the story. Pushing through the bloated last quarter does reward the reader with a surprising, competent finale. It’s better for an author to try to do too much than not enough, so recommended with caveats.
Thanks to Edelweiss+ and Kensington Publishing for a review copy.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
[This review was originally posted on Edelweiss+. I received a free digital advance review copy from the Kensington Books via Edelweiss+ in exchange for an honest review.]
Andi Vonn gets a middle-of-the-night phone call from her boyfriend telling her to run. At the same time, Oliver Whitaker, author of a world-famous news blog "The Whitaker Report", goes to meet his brother after receiving a mysterious voicemail about uncovering a huge scandal.
This book starts with a bang, the author peels back multiple layers of the story like an onion, and before you know it, you've read the entire book. The twists and turns kept the plot moving, but the characters kept me engaged and wanting to know more about each story.
The only reason I didn't devour the book faster was due to the formatting of the digital ARC. The author masterfully wove together multiple characters and storylines, but many sections of the ARC had no real indication that you were changing stories or POVs. Separations even as small as extra spacing (which will likely be present in the printed copy) often propel me as a reader as I find myself thinking I'll just read one more section...
I don't usually post trigger warnings, but there was a small chunk that featured domestic abuse. And it was written authentically enough from the woman's point of view, that I actually second guessed myself and googled the author to make sure he wasn't a woman and I had just forgotten or gotten confused.
Behind Every Face will be perfect for fans of suspense authors like Mary Kubica or Riley Sager. I think it would also be enjoyed by readers who enjoy popcorn thrillers but want something that has a little bit more mystery or political intrigue. This was my first time reading Charlie Donlea, but I will definitely be reading more of his books, and recommending them to readers.
Andi Vonn gets a middle-of-the-night phone call from her boyfriend telling her to run. At the same time, Oliver Whitaker, author of a world-famous news blog "The Whitaker Report", goes to meet his brother after receiving a mysterious voicemail about uncovering a huge scandal.
This book starts with a bang, the author peels back multiple layers of the story like an onion, and before you know it, you've read the entire book. The twists and turns kept the plot moving, but the characters kept me engaged and wanting to know more about each story.
The only reason I didn't devour the book faster was due to the formatting of the digital ARC. The author masterfully wove together multiple characters and storylines, but many sections of the ARC had no real indication that you were changing stories or POVs. Separations even as small as extra spacing (which will likely be present in the printed copy) often propel me as a reader as I find myself thinking I'll just read one more section...
I don't usually post trigger warnings, but there was a small chunk that featured domestic abuse. And it was written authentically enough from the woman's point of view, that I actually second guessed myself and googled the author to make sure he wasn't a woman and I had just forgotten or gotten confused.
Behind Every Face will be perfect for fans of suspense authors like Mary Kubica or Riley Sager. I think it would also be enjoyed by readers who enjoy popcorn thrillers but want something that has a little bit more mystery or political intrigue. This was my first time reading Charlie Donlea, but I will definitely be reading more of his books, and recommending them to readers.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to Kensington and NetGalley for the ARC! They weren’t kidding when they said to prepare to lose sleep because I could not put this one down. I read it in a single day.
Ollie is an investigative reporter known for chasing the truth, no matter who it puts in his crosshairs. When his younger brother Lucas, who works in finance, tells him he has evidence that could implicate some of the most powerful people in the world, Ollie rushes to meet him at his office. When Ollie arrives he finds blood everywhere, his brother on the floor, and someone is returning to clean up the scene. After barely escaping, Ollie calls the police, but when they arrive the FBI is already there, taking control. At the same time, Lucas’s girlfriend receives a chilling phone call: “Run. They know everything.”
What follows is a relentless manhunt told through multiple POVs as local police, the FBI, dangerous criminals, and Ollie all try to hunt down answers.
This is a 5-star popcorn thriller. Charlie Donlea is a master at writing stories that feel more like a movie than a crime drama, while keeping just enough realism to make you buy into them. The action is nonstop, the pacing never lets up, and every time I thought the story might finally slow down, it found another way to pull me into the next chapter. It also weaves in a few hot button political topics without feeling preachy or trying to take a side.
The characters are easy to cheer for and likable. That’s what really makes a fast paced thriller work for me. When you are hooked on knowing what happens to the characters. You want these characters to survive, they generally make decisions that don't make you want to pull your hair out, and each POV adds something meaningful to the manhunt.
If you’re looking for a thriller that’s impossible to put down, has a ton of twists, and is pure entertainment, this one absolutely is the one!
Thank you NetGalley & Kensington Publishing for this ARC in exchange for an honest review. These opinions are my own.
@pagesinthewild.books
Ollie is an investigative reporter known for chasing the truth, no matter who it puts in his crosshairs. When his younger brother Lucas, who works in finance, tells him he has evidence that could implicate some of the most powerful people in the world, Ollie rushes to meet him at his office. When Ollie arrives he finds blood everywhere, his brother on the floor, and someone is returning to clean up the scene. After barely escaping, Ollie calls the police, but when they arrive the FBI is already there, taking control. At the same time, Lucas’s girlfriend receives a chilling phone call: “Run. They know everything.”
What follows is a relentless manhunt told through multiple POVs as local police, the FBI, dangerous criminals, and Ollie all try to hunt down answers.
This is a 5-star popcorn thriller. Charlie Donlea is a master at writing stories that feel more like a movie than a crime drama, while keeping just enough realism to make you buy into them. The action is nonstop, the pacing never lets up, and every time I thought the story might finally slow down, it found another way to pull me into the next chapter. It also weaves in a few hot button political topics without feeling preachy or trying to take a side.
The characters are easy to cheer for and likable. That’s what really makes a fast paced thriller work for me. When you are hooked on knowing what happens to the characters. You want these characters to survive, they generally make decisions that don't make you want to pull your hair out, and each POV adds something meaningful to the manhunt.
If you’re looking for a thriller that’s impossible to put down, has a ton of twists, and is pure entertainment, this one absolutely is the one!
Thank you NetGalley & Kensington Publishing for this ARC in exchange for an honest review. These opinions are my own.
@pagesinthewild.books
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Behind Every Face is a relentlessly suspenseful thriller that grabs hold from the first chapter and never lets up. This is a high‑stakes, high‑tension story built on secrets, power, and the terrifying reach of those who have everything to lose. It’s the kind of book that keeps your pulse up and your mind racing.
The premise is instantly gripping: a murdered brother, a cryptic voicemail, and a scandal capable of toppling the world’s most untouchable figures. Ollie’s desperation to uncover the truth behind Lucas’s death gives the story a sharp emotional edge, and watching him shift from celebrated journalist to hunted target adds a compelling urgency. His investigation unfolds piece by piece, each revelation darker and more dangerous than the last.
Andi’s storyline adds another layer of tension. Her forced new identity, her isolation, and the constant threat closing in around her make her chapters feel especially claustrophobic. The way her path intertwines with Ollie’s creates a strong dual‑perspective rhythm that keeps the pace brisk and the stakes high.
The world of political influence, billionaire power, and media frenzy is portrayed with a chilling realism. The missing flash drive becomes the perfect catalyst—small, simple, but capable of blowing open a web of corruption that stretches far beyond what either Ollie or Andi imagined. The sense that nowhere is safe gives the entire book a taut, cinematic feel.
Fast‑paced, twist‑heavy, and packed with tension, Behind Every Face is a gripping thriller perfect for readers who enjoy dark secrets, dangerous conspiracies, and stories where every chapter raises the stakes. A compulsive, edge‑of‑your‑seat read.
With thanks to Charlie Donlea, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
The premise is instantly gripping: a murdered brother, a cryptic voicemail, and a scandal capable of toppling the world’s most untouchable figures. Ollie’s desperation to uncover the truth behind Lucas’s death gives the story a sharp emotional edge, and watching him shift from celebrated journalist to hunted target adds a compelling urgency. His investigation unfolds piece by piece, each revelation darker and more dangerous than the last.
Andi’s storyline adds another layer of tension. Her forced new identity, her isolation, and the constant threat closing in around her make her chapters feel especially claustrophobic. The way her path intertwines with Ollie’s creates a strong dual‑perspective rhythm that keeps the pace brisk and the stakes high.
The world of political influence, billionaire power, and media frenzy is portrayed with a chilling realism. The missing flash drive becomes the perfect catalyst—small, simple, but capable of blowing open a web of corruption that stretches far beyond what either Ollie or Andi imagined. The sense that nowhere is safe gives the entire book a taut, cinematic feel.
Fast‑paced, twist‑heavy, and packed with tension, Behind Every Face is a gripping thriller perfect for readers who enjoy dark secrets, dangerous conspiracies, and stories where every chapter raises the stakes. A compulsive, edge‑of‑your‑seat read.
With thanks to Charlie Donlea, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for the advanced reader copy
When Lucas Whitaker and Andi Vonn started working at Davis Capital they thought they'd finally made it, career-wise and personally. They were making more money than they can spend, being part of huge deals that impacted lots of big name people, and had found a lasting love in one another. But when Lucas is approached by the FBI with evidence that Davis Capital isn't what he thought, he and Andi's lives become in jeopardy. Lucas turns to the only person he thinks can help get him out of his predicament, his brother Oliver, who is a world-renowned journalist. But when Oliver shows up to meet with Lucas he's confronted Lucas' dead body and his presumed killer. Working with a police detective, Oliver tries to put together all the pieces that got his brother killed and put Andi into Witness Protection. Can he figure out what Lucas was going to share with him before his own life is snuffed out?
Boy, can Charlie Donlea write a mystery/thriller. He has a great ability to keep multiple threads--some of which seem totally unconnected to the main storyline--going until they all converge near the end, often in ways that I couldn't have imagined. This book is for those who like almost non-stop action (either physical action or the intellectual unraveling of complex scandals). The characters are interesting but feel more like vehicles for the intricate mystery that Donlea sets up (though they aren't one-dimensional by any means). My one quibble is that the title of this one doesn't really fit the story the way his other books have. After reading this, I'm even more excited for his sequel to GUESS AGAIN to come out.
Behind Every Face is out January 26, 2027
When Lucas Whitaker and Andi Vonn started working at Davis Capital they thought they'd finally made it, career-wise and personally. They were making more money than they can spend, being part of huge deals that impacted lots of big name people, and had found a lasting love in one another. But when Lucas is approached by the FBI with evidence that Davis Capital isn't what he thought, he and Andi's lives become in jeopardy. Lucas turns to the only person he thinks can help get him out of his predicament, his brother Oliver, who is a world-renowned journalist. But when Oliver shows up to meet with Lucas he's confronted Lucas' dead body and his presumed killer. Working with a police detective, Oliver tries to put together all the pieces that got his brother killed and put Andi into Witness Protection. Can he figure out what Lucas was going to share with him before his own life is snuffed out?
Boy, can Charlie Donlea write a mystery/thriller. He has a great ability to keep multiple threads--some of which seem totally unconnected to the main storyline--going until they all converge near the end, often in ways that I couldn't have imagined. This book is for those who like almost non-stop action (either physical action or the intellectual unraveling of complex scandals). The characters are interesting but feel more like vehicles for the intricate mystery that Donlea sets up (though they aren't one-dimensional by any means). My one quibble is that the title of this one doesn't really fit the story the way his other books have. After reading this, I'm even more excited for his sequel to GUESS AGAIN to come out.
Behind Every Face is out January 26, 2027
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Another winner from Mr. Donlea!
I honestly have no idea how he does it, but he is able to create books that immediately pull you into them. You are able to FEEL the tension begin to grow and then it becomes, "Just ONE more chapter...." until you get to the point where you realize that you NEED to finish the book to find out what is going to happen.
This book starts with a BANG and I immediately found myself intrigued. The story is told from multiple POV's and also from various timelines. At the beginning, it felt like there was so much information being thrown out and I wasn't sure exactly how everything was tied together. BUT, as things continued, things began to unfold.
There were twists galore and I loved every one of them. There was also drama, action, emotional upheaval, and mystery.
There isn't really a main character, but if I had to pick one, it might be Ollie Whitaker, or possibly his brother Lucas. The tale is extremely convoluted yet somehow, when all of the strings have been laid out, the story it tells is unbelievably dark and incredibly brilliant.
I honestly could not put it down and went through the entire book in one setting. My recommendation would be to not read too many reviews and to try to go into this as blind as possible. Why? Because when the twists and the reveals occur, the less you know going in, the more of an impact they are going to have on you.
I loved it. Mr. Donlea has quite the streak going with books that I have truly enjoyed and that is not an easy thing to do. This book might just be up there at the very top in terms of entertainment value.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing | Kensington for the opportunity to read and review this ARC. This book will be out for publication on January 26, 2027.
I honestly have no idea how he does it, but he is able to create books that immediately pull you into them. You are able to FEEL the tension begin to grow and then it becomes, "Just ONE more chapter...." until you get to the point where you realize that you NEED to finish the book to find out what is going to happen.
This book starts with a BANG and I immediately found myself intrigued. The story is told from multiple POV's and also from various timelines. At the beginning, it felt like there was so much information being thrown out and I wasn't sure exactly how everything was tied together. BUT, as things continued, things began to unfold.
There were twists galore and I loved every one of them. There was also drama, action, emotional upheaval, and mystery.
There isn't really a main character, but if I had to pick one, it might be Ollie Whitaker, or possibly his brother Lucas. The tale is extremely convoluted yet somehow, when all of the strings have been laid out, the story it tells is unbelievably dark and incredibly brilliant.
I honestly could not put it down and went through the entire book in one setting. My recommendation would be to not read too many reviews and to try to go into this as blind as possible. Why? Because when the twists and the reveals occur, the less you know going in, the more of an impact they are going to have on you.
I loved it. Mr. Donlea has quite the streak going with books that I have truly enjoyed and that is not an easy thing to do. This book might just be up there at the very top in terms of entertainment value.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing | Kensington for the opportunity to read and review this ARC. This book will be out for publication on January 26, 2027.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
💻 He uncovered the truth… and it cost him everything.
I am completely hooked on this 4-star political thriller! If you love high-stakes journalism, massive federal conspiracies, billionaire villains, and a relentless cat-and-mouse game, add this to your TBR immediately. 🕵️♂️🔥
The Plot: Ollie Whittaker runs a top investigative website. When his estranged younger brother, Lucas, leaves a frantic voicemail claiming he’s uncovered a massive story, Ollie goes to meet him—only to walk straight into a bloody crime scene. Lucas is dead, and a severed finger is left under the desk. 📞🩸
The Catch: Before the local police can even arrive at Ollie's anonymous call, the Feds swarm the scene. Lucas was entangled in a compromised deep-cover sting called "Operation Glass House." Now, Ollie is being hunted by a ruthless billionaire named Brooks Davis, who has a professional hitman on his payroll and wants to erase anyone connected to the leak. 🧩🏢
Why it’s a must-read:
🎯 The Ultimate Villain: The billionaire antagonist gives off major The Boys (Mr. Edgar) or The Blacklist (Remington) vibes—cold, calculated, and terrifyingly powerful.
🏎️ A Wild Chase: From a WITSEC agent hidden far from NYC to a missing girl holding a damning flash drive, the pace never lets up as Ollie tries to finish his brother's final report.
It's an incredibly fast-paced, high-stakes puzzle that keeps you guessing who will make it out alive. A solid 4 stars! 🤯✨
⭐ Rating: 4/5 stars
📌 Tropes: Investigative Journalism, Federal Conspiracy, Corruption, Witness Protection, Cat & Mouse
My full review on this book can be found here; https://cindieslibrary.com/behind-eve...
I am completely hooked on this 4-star political thriller! If you love high-stakes journalism, massive federal conspiracies, billionaire villains, and a relentless cat-and-mouse game, add this to your TBR immediately. 🕵️♂️🔥
The Plot: Ollie Whittaker runs a top investigative website. When his estranged younger brother, Lucas, leaves a frantic voicemail claiming he’s uncovered a massive story, Ollie goes to meet him—only to walk straight into a bloody crime scene. Lucas is dead, and a severed finger is left under the desk. 📞🩸
The Catch: Before the local police can even arrive at Ollie's anonymous call, the Feds swarm the scene. Lucas was entangled in a compromised deep-cover sting called "Operation Glass House." Now, Ollie is being hunted by a ruthless billionaire named Brooks Davis, who has a professional hitman on his payroll and wants to erase anyone connected to the leak. 🧩🏢
Why it’s a must-read:
🎯 The Ultimate Villain: The billionaire antagonist gives off major The Boys (Mr. Edgar) or The Blacklist (Remington) vibes—cold, calculated, and terrifyingly powerful.
🏎️ A Wild Chase: From a WITSEC agent hidden far from NYC to a missing girl holding a damning flash drive, the pace never lets up as Ollie tries to finish his brother's final report.
It's an incredibly fast-paced, high-stakes puzzle that keeps you guessing who will make it out alive. A solid 4 stars! 🤯✨
⭐ Rating: 4/5 stars
📌 Tropes: Investigative Journalism, Federal Conspiracy, Corruption, Witness Protection, Cat & Mouse
My full review on this book can be found here; https://cindieslibrary.com/behind-eve...
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Behind Every Face - Charlie Donlea
Pub Date - 1/26/27 | Kensington Publishing
Rating - ☕️☕️☕️☕️☕️/5
Thoughts - Thank you to Netgalley, Kensington Publishing, and Charlie Donlea for this gifted eARC in exchange for my honest review.
When investigative journalist Oliver Whitaker’s brother is brutally murdered after leaving behind a cryptic voicemail, Ollie is thrust into a deadly conspiracy involving blackmail, powerful elites, and a missing flash drive. As he races to uncover the truth alongside his brother’s fiancée, both become targets of ruthless enemies determined to keep the scandal buried. With the FBI struggling to protect them, Ollie realizes there may be no place left to hide.
Charlie Donlea is one of my absolute favorite authors, so when I realized I got approved for this book, I SCREAMED with excitement!
The story is a classic Donlea story were there are multiple plots, people, and things happening at the same time, but are interconnected in this web he creates for his readers. I find that unlike other authors, Donlea can introduce a character in one chapter, and provide context for that character and how he/she relates to the story without confusing me. This story has multiple layers with short chapters, making you want to read "just one more chapter".
I stayed up past my bedtime to finish this, and it was absolutely worth it! There are some really well crafted twists and turns in this book that I know readers will love.
I highly recommend to add this to your TBR when it releases January 2027!
Read if you like:
🕵️ investigative journalists chasing dangerous truths
💾 conspiracy thrillers packed with corruption and cover-ups
⏳ fast-paced cat-and-mouse chases with nonstop suspense
🔥 high-stakes mysteries where powerful people will kill to keep their secrets
#newbook #charliedonlea #bookreview
Pub Date - 1/26/27 | Kensington Publishing
Rating - ☕️☕️☕️☕️☕️/5
Thoughts - Thank you to Netgalley, Kensington Publishing, and Charlie Donlea for this gifted eARC in exchange for my honest review.
When investigative journalist Oliver Whitaker’s brother is brutally murdered after leaving behind a cryptic voicemail, Ollie is thrust into a deadly conspiracy involving blackmail, powerful elites, and a missing flash drive. As he races to uncover the truth alongside his brother’s fiancée, both become targets of ruthless enemies determined to keep the scandal buried. With the FBI struggling to protect them, Ollie realizes there may be no place left to hide.
Charlie Donlea is one of my absolute favorite authors, so when I realized I got approved for this book, I SCREAMED with excitement!
The story is a classic Donlea story were there are multiple plots, people, and things happening at the same time, but are interconnected in this web he creates for his readers. I find that unlike other authors, Donlea can introduce a character in one chapter, and provide context for that character and how he/she relates to the story without confusing me. This story has multiple layers with short chapters, making you want to read "just one more chapter".
I stayed up past my bedtime to finish this, and it was absolutely worth it! There are some really well crafted twists and turns in this book that I know readers will love.
I highly recommend to add this to your TBR when it releases January 2027!
Read if you like:
🕵️ investigative journalists chasing dangerous truths
💾 conspiracy thrillers packed with corruption and cover-ups
⏳ fast-paced cat-and-mouse chases with nonstop suspense
🔥 high-stakes mysteries where powerful people will kill to keep their secrets
#newbook #charliedonlea #bookreview
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Many thanks to Netgalley and Kensington for this digital arc!
Charlie Donlea has done it again. Behind Every Face is a masterclass in suspense, gripping, cinematic, and impossible to put down. From the very first page, the tension never lets up, and I found myself constantly on edge, my anxiety through the roof as I desperately hoped these characters would make it through their respective challenges.
What impressed me most was how meticulously crafted the story is. Every clue, every revelation, and every seemingly insignificant detail serves a purpose. Charlie Donlea weaves an incredibly complex plot without leaving plot holes, making the payoff both shocking and deeply satisfying.
The characters feel authentic and emotionally layered, making the stakes feel incredibly real. I wasn't just invested in solving the mystery. I genuinely cared about what happened to everyone involved.
One of the most powerful aspects of the novel is how it incorporates a real, current issue into the story. Rather than feeling sensationalized, it adds weight and relevance, highlighting the very real impact these events have on people's lives. It elevates the story beyond a standard thriller, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking.
This is a thriller that's intelligent, emotionally engaging, and feels like it belongs on the big screen, Behind Every Face delivers on every level. This is easily one of my favorite reads of the year and a reminder of why Charlie Donlea remains one of the best in the thriller genre. A flawless five-star read.
Charlie Donlea has done it again. Behind Every Face is a masterclass in suspense, gripping, cinematic, and impossible to put down. From the very first page, the tension never lets up, and I found myself constantly on edge, my anxiety through the roof as I desperately hoped these characters would make it through their respective challenges.
What impressed me most was how meticulously crafted the story is. Every clue, every revelation, and every seemingly insignificant detail serves a purpose. Charlie Donlea weaves an incredibly complex plot without leaving plot holes, making the payoff both shocking and deeply satisfying.
The characters feel authentic and emotionally layered, making the stakes feel incredibly real. I wasn't just invested in solving the mystery. I genuinely cared about what happened to everyone involved.
One of the most powerful aspects of the novel is how it incorporates a real, current issue into the story. Rather than feeling sensationalized, it adds weight and relevance, highlighting the very real impact these events have on people's lives. It elevates the story beyond a standard thriller, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking.
This is a thriller that's intelligent, emotionally engaging, and feels like it belongs on the big screen, Behind Every Face delivers on every level. This is easily one of my favorite reads of the year and a reminder of why Charlie Donlea remains one of the best in the thriller genre. A flawless five-star read.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4.5
Charlie Donlea you've done it again! A book I read in 48 hours is one that I will rave about for years to come. I"m a sucker for blackmail and murder and this had both. There are certain trigger warnings: sex trafficking and murder that I didn't know about until I finished. . My only qualm was there were A LOT of characters and I found myself forgetting who was who at certain points of the book, but that is definitely a me problem.
Lucas is a big time New York City banker. He works for one of the most prestigious hedge funds that is riddled with corruption. The FBI has been onto his boss for years and finally bit the bullet to get Lucas to be an informant. Lucas obeyed and began to help the FBI. One day he ends up murdered in his office. Before his murder, he calls his brother Ollie, a HUGE journalist, who has been exposing some of the biggest controversies for years. As Ollie is en route to get Lucas' story, he finds his brother dead and sees the man responsible. Ollie is now on the run and willing to do anything to find out why and who was behind his brothers murder. Ollie begins to unravel the story dealing with sex trafficking, sex tapes, murder, and money laundering. But Ollie isn't safe. The same men who went after his brother are now after him. As leaks become known to the public, his life and his brothers friends/girlfriends lives are in danger. Ollie will stop at NOTHING until the truth is known and his brothers murderers are put behind bars.
If you want a fast paced drama/thriller definitely read this, it will NOT disappoint. Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC.
Charlie Donlea you've done it again! A book I read in 48 hours is one that I will rave about for years to come. I"m a sucker for blackmail and murder and this had both. There are certain trigger warnings: sex trafficking and murder that I didn't know about until I finished. . My only qualm was there were A LOT of characters and I found myself forgetting who was who at certain points of the book, but that is definitely a me problem.
Lucas is a big time New York City banker. He works for one of the most prestigious hedge funds that is riddled with corruption. The FBI has been onto his boss for years and finally bit the bullet to get Lucas to be an informant. Lucas obeyed and began to help the FBI. One day he ends up murdered in his office. Before his murder, he calls his brother Ollie, a HUGE journalist, who has been exposing some of the biggest controversies for years. As Ollie is en route to get Lucas' story, he finds his brother dead and sees the man responsible. Ollie is now on the run and willing to do anything to find out why and who was behind his brothers murder. Ollie begins to unravel the story dealing with sex trafficking, sex tapes, murder, and money laundering. But Ollie isn't safe. The same men who went after his brother are now after him. As leaks become known to the public, his life and his brothers friends/girlfriends lives are in danger. Ollie will stop at NOTHING until the truth is known and his brothers murderers are put behind bars.
If you want a fast paced drama/thriller definitely read this, it will NOT disappoint. Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC.
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