What do you think?
Rate this book
The Drowning Season
Revised edition: Previously published as Anywhere She Runs, this edition of The Drowning Season includes editorial revisions.
To find two missing women, a detective must dive into the secrets of her past in a blood-freezing novel of suspense by USA Today bestselling author Debra Webb.
Detective Adeline Cooper swore she’d never return to Mississippi, where her corrupt family rules through fear and her career was upended by betrayal. But then she receives a photograph of a local woman who has gone missing, along with a cryptic, chilling message: Pretty, pretty princess. See her smile…see her die.
Soon after Adeline arrives in her hometown, a second woman is kidnapped, and there are disturbing connections between the two victims and the detective. Both women bear an eerie resemblance to Adeline and share her fear of water. A new message makes the kidnapper’s game terrifyingly clear: You’re next.
When past and present collide at the river’s edge, Adeline will finally understand why she’s been dreaming of drowning her whole life.
To find two missing women, a detective must dive into the secrets of her past in a blood-freezing novel of suspense by USA Today bestselling author Debra Webb.
Detective Adeline Cooper swore she’d never return to Mississippi, where her corrupt family rules through fear and her career was upended by betrayal. But then she receives a photograph of a local woman who has gone missing, along with a cryptic, chilling message: Pretty, pretty princess. See her smile…see her die.
Soon after Adeline arrives in her hometown, a second woman is kidnapped, and there are disturbing connections between the two victims and the detective. Both women bear an eerie resemblance to Adeline and share her fear of water. A new message makes the kidnapper’s game terrifyingly clear: You’re next.
When past and present collide at the river’s edge, Adeline will finally understand why she’s been dreaming of drowning her whole life.
315 pages, Paperback
First published May 12, 2026
About the author
Debra Webb
550 books2,461 followersDEBRA WEBB is the USA Today bestselling author of more than 170 novels, including reader favorites the Finley O'Sullivan and Devlin & Falco series. She is the recipient of the prestigious Romantic Times Career Achievement Award for Romantic Suspense as well as numerous Reviewers Choice Awards. In 2012 Debra was honored as the first recipient of the esteemed L. A. Banks Warrior Woman Award for her courage, strength, and grace in the face of adversity. Recently Debra was awarded the distinguished Centennial Award for having achieved publication of her 100th novel.
With more than four million books in print in numerous languages and countries, Debra’s love of storytelling goes back to her childhood when her mother bought her an old typewriter in a tag sale. Born in Alabama, Debra grew up on a farm. She spent every available hour exploring the world around her and creating her stories. She wrote her first story at age nine and her first romance at thirteen. It wasn’t until she spent three years working for the Commanding General of the US Army in Berlin behind the Iron Curtain and a five-year stint in NASA’s Shuttle Program that she realized her true calling. A collision course between suspense and romance was set. Since then she has expanded her work into some of the darkest places the human psyche dares to go. Visit Debra at www.debrawebb.com.
With more than four million books in print in numerous languages and countries, Debra’s love of storytelling goes back to her childhood when her mother bought her an old typewriter in a tag sale. Born in Alabama, Debra grew up on a farm. She spent every available hour exploring the world around her and creating her stories. She wrote her first story at age nine and her first romance at thirteen. It wasn’t until she spent three years working for the Commanding General of the US Army in Berlin behind the Iron Curtain and a five-year stint in NASA’s Shuttle Program that she realized her true calling. A collision course between suspense and romance was set. Since then she has expanded her work into some of the darkest places the human psyche dares to go. Visit Debra at www.debrawebb.com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
May 15, 2026
My very first book by Debra Webb “The Drowning Season” was fast paced and full of suspense. Lots of revenge, secrets, lies. I really enjoyed all the characters and Adeline was really great! Looking forward to more thrillers by this author. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this early release. Out in publication NOW.
April 27, 2026
This wasn’t a miss for me. It’s just going to take something spectacular to find out of this type of genre to completely blow me away, it’s nobody’s fault really, I’ve just read so many, that it takes a huge feat to dazzle me.
Unfortunately this time I guessed all the twists again, all of them!! So that’s always going to be a bit tricky to get past. I liked Adeline but I didn’t really enjoy the love story, that’s a personal preference really, I would’ve been happy enough without the side story.
Not a miss. Just not a huge victory.
Huge thanks to Brulliance Publishing via NetGalley for the opportunity to review This ALC 🎧
Unfortunately this time I guessed all the twists again, all of them!! So that’s always going to be a bit tricky to get past. I liked Adeline but I didn’t really enjoy the love story, that’s a personal preference really, I would’ve been happy enough without the side story.
Not a miss. Just not a huge victory.
Huge thanks to Brulliance Publishing via NetGalley for the opportunity to review This ALC 🎧
May 12, 2026
This one started off with a bang. Detective Adeline Cooper started receiving letters from an unknown sender.
Meanwhile, two women from her hometown have vanished. The letters Addy received and the disappearance of the two women are related.
Addy heads to her hometown and team up with her ex Wyatt to solve this case. The sender of the letters is coming for Addy next.
I loved this was an easy quick read from start to finish. It has all the elements for a good book. A great mix of characters you love or hate, murder and a touch of romance.
My opinion is my own and I would encourage others to read it.
Meanwhile, two women from her hometown have vanished. The letters Addy received and the disappearance of the two women are related.
Addy heads to her hometown and team up with her ex Wyatt to solve this case. The sender of the letters is coming for Addy next.
I loved this was an easy quick read from start to finish. It has all the elements for a good book. A great mix of characters you love or hate, murder and a touch of romance.
My opinion is my own and I would encourage others to read it.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
There is something deeply unwell about a book that opens with “you’re basically being hunted by someone who calls you a pretty princess,” and yet I still went, okay yes, let’s emotionally invest. That’s where The Drowning Season got me. Immediately stressed, mildly intrigued, and already side-eyeing every man within a fifty mile radius.
Adeline Cooper is that very specific flavor of female detective where you can tell she has not slept, processed a single emotion, or trusted a human being since approximately 2007. She swore off her hometown in Mississippi, which honestly sounds less like a dramatic vow and more like basic self preservation because her family is… not great. Corrupt, powerful, threatening, the whole “we ruin lives before breakfast” vibe. Naturally, she gets dragged back because a woman goes missing and someone decides to send her creepy little scrapbook materials like this is Gone Girl meets Etsy.
And here’s the hook that absolutely works, the missing women look like her. Same general appearance, same fear of water, same “girl, are you okay?” energy. Which means this is not just a case, this is a full psychological spiral wrapped in a murder mystery. And the killer is basically like, hey bestie, you’re next. Casual.
The atmosphere is doing a LOT of heavy lifting here in the best way. Everything feels damp, tense, and vaguely haunted, like the entire town is one long sigh of bad decisions. The river imagery, the drowning dreams, the way past and present keep overlapping, it’s all very moody Southern gothic with a side of generational trauma. You can practically hear the cicadas judging everyone.
Now let’s talk about the emotional chaos, because this book said what if we took a thriller and injected just enough romantic suspense to make things messy. Enter Wyatt, the former love of Adeline’s life who is now the sheriff, because of course he is. And yes, there is history. And yes, it involves betrayal. And yes, we are expected to function while these two stare at each other like they’re in the final act of a CW drama. I personally was like, can we solve the murders before we unpack this emotional baggage, but also I was eating it up a little.
This is where the energy settles into that “almost had me completely, but also made me work for it” zone. The book loves to hint at "The Big Past Event" like it’s holding a secret Oscar speech, and for a while you’re just sitting there like, I get it, something terrible happened, can we please put a name tag on it. There’s a fine line between suspense and “I feel like I missed a prequel,” and this definitely tap dances on that line in the first chunk.
Adeline herself is compelling but exhausting in that very human way. She is angry, guarded, and carrying enough guilt to power a small city. Sometimes it works beautifully, especially when the story leans into her trauma and how personal this case is. Other times it feels like she’s stuck in a loop of internal monologue that slows things down just when you want the plot to sprint.
But when the story clicks into place, it really does click. The connections between the victims, the slow unraveling of her family’s secrets, the way everything starts pointing back to her past, it builds into something genuinely tense and satisfying. You start to feel that creeping dread of oh… this is bigger than I thought, and also significantly worse.
The twist and resolution land in that solid, respectable zone where you’re not throwing the book across the room in shock, but you are like, okay, that tracks, I’m entertained, I will allow it. It’s the kind of thriller that doesn’t reinvent the genre but absolutely knows how to keep you hooked once it finds its rhythm.
By the end, I was equal parts invested and emotionally wrung out, which honestly feels correct for a story about drowning, both literal and psychological. It’s messy, a little dramatic, occasionally frustrating, but also genuinely gripping when it wants to be. Final vibe, a confident 3.5 stars.
Whodunit Award: For Making Me Suspicious of Literally Every Family Member and At Least Two Innocent Bystanders Just Trying to Buy Groceries
And a chaotic thank you to Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley for the ARC, for letting me spiral into this swampy mess of secrets and bad decisions before everyone else. Truly appreciated, even if I now trust absolutely no one.
Adeline Cooper is that very specific flavor of female detective where you can tell she has not slept, processed a single emotion, or trusted a human being since approximately 2007. She swore off her hometown in Mississippi, which honestly sounds less like a dramatic vow and more like basic self preservation because her family is… not great. Corrupt, powerful, threatening, the whole “we ruin lives before breakfast” vibe. Naturally, she gets dragged back because a woman goes missing and someone decides to send her creepy little scrapbook materials like this is Gone Girl meets Etsy.
And here’s the hook that absolutely works, the missing women look like her. Same general appearance, same fear of water, same “girl, are you okay?” energy. Which means this is not just a case, this is a full psychological spiral wrapped in a murder mystery. And the killer is basically like, hey bestie, you’re next. Casual.
The atmosphere is doing a LOT of heavy lifting here in the best way. Everything feels damp, tense, and vaguely haunted, like the entire town is one long sigh of bad decisions. The river imagery, the drowning dreams, the way past and present keep overlapping, it’s all very moody Southern gothic with a side of generational trauma. You can practically hear the cicadas judging everyone.
Now let’s talk about the emotional chaos, because this book said what if we took a thriller and injected just enough romantic suspense to make things messy. Enter Wyatt, the former love of Adeline’s life who is now the sheriff, because of course he is. And yes, there is history. And yes, it involves betrayal. And yes, we are expected to function while these two stare at each other like they’re in the final act of a CW drama. I personally was like, can we solve the murders before we unpack this emotional baggage, but also I was eating it up a little.
This is where the energy settles into that “almost had me completely, but also made me work for it” zone. The book loves to hint at "The Big Past Event" like it’s holding a secret Oscar speech, and for a while you’re just sitting there like, I get it, something terrible happened, can we please put a name tag on it. There’s a fine line between suspense and “I feel like I missed a prequel,” and this definitely tap dances on that line in the first chunk.
Adeline herself is compelling but exhausting in that very human way. She is angry, guarded, and carrying enough guilt to power a small city. Sometimes it works beautifully, especially when the story leans into her trauma and how personal this case is. Other times it feels like she’s stuck in a loop of internal monologue that slows things down just when you want the plot to sprint.
But when the story clicks into place, it really does click. The connections between the victims, the slow unraveling of her family’s secrets, the way everything starts pointing back to her past, it builds into something genuinely tense and satisfying. You start to feel that creeping dread of oh… this is bigger than I thought, and also significantly worse.
The twist and resolution land in that solid, respectable zone where you’re not throwing the book across the room in shock, but you are like, okay, that tracks, I’m entertained, I will allow it. It’s the kind of thriller that doesn’t reinvent the genre but absolutely knows how to keep you hooked once it finds its rhythm.
By the end, I was equal parts invested and emotionally wrung out, which honestly feels correct for a story about drowning, both literal and psychological. It’s messy, a little dramatic, occasionally frustrating, but also genuinely gripping when it wants to be. Final vibe, a confident 3.5 stars.
Whodunit Award: For Making Me Suspicious of Literally Every Family Member and At Least Two Innocent Bystanders Just Trying to Buy Groceries
And a chaotic thank you to Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley for the ARC, for letting me spiral into this swampy mess of secrets and bad decisions before everyone else. Truly appreciated, even if I now trust absolutely no one.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
No more princesses here …
A rural county in Mississippi. Two women have gone missing. Both blonde, blue eyed and mid 30’s. Detective Adeline Cooper must investigate the case - as well as the secrets of her past - in the hope to save them. Will she get there in time?
Adeline swore she would never return to the town where her corrupt family rule the roost and chased her away 9 years before. She was also betrayed by the only man she has ever loved, Wyatt Henderson. But then she begins to receive items; photograph of the first missing woman, cryptic and chilling letters and threats. She soon recognises that there is a disturbing connections between her and the missing women.
When a note is found in her motel stating ‘your next’, Addy’s past and present will collide and she will finally discover why she has always had the same haunting dreams of drowning her entire life. Is this a case she will be able to solve before it’s too late?
The book is mainly told from the narration of protagonist Adeline or Addy, however we occasionally hear from Danny, who is a small child. The story focuses on the police investigation into the missing women and how this relates to Addy and her family.
The one issue I have is, if Addy and her family are so deeply involved, there is no way she would have remained in the case which makes it unreliable and a little annoying. Also - I don’t believe she would be as stoic or as indifferent as she acts.
If you like small town mysteries, corrupt police, bad blood between a powerful family (think Yellowstone), betrayal, childhood trauma, former high school sweetheart romance that blurs the boundaries and a police investigation where the bodies pile up, this one is for you! And a perfect ending with the provision for a sequel!
Was it believable? No. Did I enjoy it? Yes. Will i recommend it? Absolutely!
Thank you to NetGallery, Thomas and Mercer and Debra Webb for the ARC of this book.
Like my reviews?
Instagram: @bookedupnurse
TikTok: @bookedupnurse
A rural county in Mississippi. Two women have gone missing. Both blonde, blue eyed and mid 30’s. Detective Adeline Cooper must investigate the case - as well as the secrets of her past - in the hope to save them. Will she get there in time?
Adeline swore she would never return to the town where her corrupt family rule the roost and chased her away 9 years before. She was also betrayed by the only man she has ever loved, Wyatt Henderson. But then she begins to receive items; photograph of the first missing woman, cryptic and chilling letters and threats. She soon recognises that there is a disturbing connections between her and the missing women.
When a note is found in her motel stating ‘your next’, Addy’s past and present will collide and she will finally discover why she has always had the same haunting dreams of drowning her entire life. Is this a case she will be able to solve before it’s too late?
The book is mainly told from the narration of protagonist Adeline or Addy, however we occasionally hear from Danny, who is a small child. The story focuses on the police investigation into the missing women and how this relates to Addy and her family.
The one issue I have is, if Addy and her family are so deeply involved, there is no way she would have remained in the case which makes it unreliable and a little annoying. Also - I don’t believe she would be as stoic or as indifferent as she acts.
If you like small town mysteries, corrupt police, bad blood between a powerful family (think Yellowstone), betrayal, childhood trauma, former high school sweetheart romance that blurs the boundaries and a police investigation where the bodies pile up, this one is for you! And a perfect ending with the provision for a sequel!
Was it believable? No. Did I enjoy it? Yes. Will i recommend it? Absolutely!
Thank you to NetGallery, Thomas and Mercer and Debra Webb for the ARC of this book.
Like my reviews?
Instagram: @bookedupnurse
TikTok: @bookedupnurse
May 12, 2026
Small town politics, corruption that was embedded into the fiber of the community and family drama are just a few of the things that make this book a hit for me.
Detective Adeline Cooper has returned to her hometown in Mississippi, a place she vowed never to return. However, her conscience and her need to solve a mystery have brought her back to the place of her nightmares. A woman is missing and someone sent Addi a clue.
To make matters even worse for her, Wyatt is the sheriff now. Wyatt broke her heart in a thousand pieces when she left town. But she knows she will have to put her big girl pants on because they need to work together to bring this missing woman home.
This mystery was eerie in every sense of the word. Calling someone a pretty princess should be a compliment, but the depraved soul in this story definitely does not mean it as a compliment.
I had a pretty good idea of what was going on, but I could not figure out how it was all going to come together. The author did a great job of hiding the truth until the final part of the book.
The past and the present are about to have a meeting that no one in this small town will soon forget. Lives will be shattered and changed forever.
It was not only a great mystery, but it was also a very emotional story. The pace was perfect and kept my spidey senses tingling the entire time. The depravity of the human mind is a study in what makes some people tick, and that is laid out in all of its glory as the story concludes.
I really liked Addi. She was full of fire, tenacious and fearless. She was fighting seen and unseen enemies, but she just kept trudging along determined to save the women who needed to be saved.
Thank you to Thomas Mercer and NetGalley for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Detective Adeline Cooper has returned to her hometown in Mississippi, a place she vowed never to return. However, her conscience and her need to solve a mystery have brought her back to the place of her nightmares. A woman is missing and someone sent Addi a clue.
To make matters even worse for her, Wyatt is the sheriff now. Wyatt broke her heart in a thousand pieces when she left town. But she knows she will have to put her big girl pants on because they need to work together to bring this missing woman home.
This mystery was eerie in every sense of the word. Calling someone a pretty princess should be a compliment, but the depraved soul in this story definitely does not mean it as a compliment.
I had a pretty good idea of what was going on, but I could not figure out how it was all going to come together. The author did a great job of hiding the truth until the final part of the book.
The past and the present are about to have a meeting that no one in this small town will soon forget. Lives will be shattered and changed forever.
It was not only a great mystery, but it was also a very emotional story. The pace was perfect and kept my spidey senses tingling the entire time. The depravity of the human mind is a study in what makes some people tick, and that is laid out in all of its glory as the story concludes.
I really liked Addi. She was full of fire, tenacious and fearless. She was fighting seen and unseen enemies, but she just kept trudging along determined to save the women who needed to be saved.
Thank you to Thomas Mercer and NetGalley for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 13, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Brillance Audio for the advanced audio of this book for my honest opinion.
This audiobook pulled me in fast with its haunting small-town atmosphere, emotional tension, and mystery-heavy plot. Set in Mississippi, the story follows Adeline Cooper, a detective who is drawn back to her hometown after two missing women who look exactly like her disappear. Returning home also means facing her past — including her ex, Wyatt Henderson, who is now in charge of the local police force. All while navigating corrupt police, powerful families, bad blood, and deeply buried childhood trauma.
The story itself is fast-paced and full of unsettling moments. The anonymous notes left for Adeline added such a creepy edge to the narrative, and the twists and turns kept me constantly second-guessing what was really happening. I also appreciated that the characters felt messy, real, and emotionally complex rather than overly polished.
The audiobook narrator absolutely carried this story for me. She brought so much emotion and intensity to Adeline’s character and really elevated the suspenseful atmosphere. Her performance kept me engaged even during moments where I struggled with the storytelling choices.
My biggest issue was the unreliable narrator aspect. While I understand why it was used, it personally made it harder for me to fully connect with the mystery because I never felt grounded in what was actually true. At times it felt more frustrating than intriguing for me as a listener.
That said, the emotional thriller vibes, haunting tone, and strong narration still made this a really enjoyable listen overall. The ending definitely leaves you curious for more and ready to see where the story goes next.
This audiobook pulled me in fast with its haunting small-town atmosphere, emotional tension, and mystery-heavy plot. Set in Mississippi, the story follows Adeline Cooper, a detective who is drawn back to her hometown after two missing women who look exactly like her disappear. Returning home also means facing her past — including her ex, Wyatt Henderson, who is now in charge of the local police force. All while navigating corrupt police, powerful families, bad blood, and deeply buried childhood trauma.
The story itself is fast-paced and full of unsettling moments. The anonymous notes left for Adeline added such a creepy edge to the narrative, and the twists and turns kept me constantly second-guessing what was really happening. I also appreciated that the characters felt messy, real, and emotionally complex rather than overly polished.
The audiobook narrator absolutely carried this story for me. She brought so much emotion and intensity to Adeline’s character and really elevated the suspenseful atmosphere. Her performance kept me engaged even during moments where I struggled with the storytelling choices.
My biggest issue was the unreliable narrator aspect. While I understand why it was used, it personally made it harder for me to fully connect with the mystery because I never felt grounded in what was actually true. At times it felt more frustrating than intriguing for me as a listener.
That said, the emotional thriller vibes, haunting tone, and strong narration still made this a really enjoyable listen overall. The ending definitely leaves you curious for more and ready to see where the story goes next.
May 12, 2026
Debra Webb's latest release was a creative read that I really enjoyed. A story about betrayal, family and secrets of the past with a little romance to keep you enticed.
Adeline Cooper is a detective who left her hometown because of something that happened in the past 9 years ago. Today she received a cryptic letter that ties her to another missing person. A woman who also received a cryptic letter a lot like hers. A stalker that wants to finish something that was started long ago. The dreams she keeps having seem eerily similar to the dreams of the missing woman. Almost a premonition of what is to come for both of them When another woman goes missing with the same letter about princesses, Adeline's instincts tell her there is more to the story and is on the hunt to bring them home before she goes missing as well. She goes back home despite then warnings not to return again. Sheriff Wyatt Henderson teams up with Adeline against his feelings and hers to find the missing women and catch the abductor. Can she figure out why these particular women went missing? Who would want to target her? Was it her family sending a message? Can she work with Wyatt despite his betrayal from all those years ago?
Debra Webb creates a world that draws you in, and it makes you part of the investigation. The twists and turns keep you guessing until the very last page. Debra's books are stories I never want to miss because I know it's going to be great. They never disappoint. Highly recommend. Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for the Arc for my honest review.
Adeline Cooper is a detective who left her hometown because of something that happened in the past 9 years ago. Today she received a cryptic letter that ties her to another missing person. A woman who also received a cryptic letter a lot like hers. A stalker that wants to finish something that was started long ago. The dreams she keeps having seem eerily similar to the dreams of the missing woman. Almost a premonition of what is to come for both of them When another woman goes missing with the same letter about princesses, Adeline's instincts tell her there is more to the story and is on the hunt to bring them home before she goes missing as well. She goes back home despite then warnings not to return again. Sheriff Wyatt Henderson teams up with Adeline against his feelings and hers to find the missing women and catch the abductor. Can she figure out why these particular women went missing? Who would want to target her? Was it her family sending a message? Can she work with Wyatt despite his betrayal from all those years ago?
Debra Webb creates a world that draws you in, and it makes you part of the investigation. The twists and turns keep you guessing until the very last page. Debra's books are stories I never want to miss because I know it's going to be great. They never disappoint. Highly recommend. Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for the Arc for my honest review.
May 13, 2026
Detective Adeline Cooper has been receiving letter threatening her. These letters call her a pretty princess and that she needs to die. A newspaper clipping is attached to one of the letters letting her know about a missing City Attorney Cherry Prescott. Her car was found abandoned at Moss Point, which happens to be Adeline's hometown. She is not able to return due to an incident that happened nine years ago. Nothing can stop Adeline from going back to her hometown and helping with the case. Adeline will reunite with her past love, Wyatt Henderson, while facing her uncle who runs illegal businesses while also searching for a second missing woman, who also received the same letters as Adeline. But things may prove harder as Adeline learn secrets from her past that only her mother knew and that are connected to the missing women.
I am a huge Debra Webb fan and I couldn't wait to read this book. The premise is enticing and the storyline was chef's kiss. I enjoyed how Adeline's return caused so much angst and uncertainty amongst the people in her hometown. She was a great character who was very intense, carries so much anger with her and doesn't always seem to know what she wants and the right way to approach things. Overall a great thriller with captivating twists.
Thank you Netgalley and Thomas & Mercer for this eARC. All opinions are entirely my own.
I am a huge Debra Webb fan and I couldn't wait to read this book. The premise is enticing and the storyline was chef's kiss. I enjoyed how Adeline's return caused so much angst and uncertainty amongst the people in her hometown. She was a great character who was very intense, carries so much anger with her and doesn't always seem to know what she wants and the right way to approach things. Overall a great thriller with captivating twists.
Thank you Netgalley and Thomas & Mercer for this eARC. All opinions are entirely my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thanks to Thomas & Mercer and Netgalley for the e-arc!
In Huntsville, Alabama, the arrival of a cryptic letter attached to a photo of a missing woman, sends Detective Adeline head-first into an investigation that leads straight back to the Jackson, Mississipi hometown she she was banished from 9 years earlier.
There she is reunited with her first love, the man who betrayed her, and the criminal family who would prefer to see her 6 feet deep.
But when a second woman goes missing and she learns of a connection between both women and herself she is determined to find them, even if that entails a deal with the devil.
I won’t get granular but the FMC is a lone wolf type and I personally find this to be a tired character trope in mystery/crime fiction. The storyline kept me flipping the pages and the ever present threat of danger from Adeline’s criminal family added an extra layer of suspense. However the lead-up to the final showdown made the book fall apart and that is in the FMC’s deeply senseless choices. Also of note, the opening chapter to the first chapter of our FMC’s POV is perhaps the most inappropriate transition ever.
In Huntsville, Alabama, the arrival of a cryptic letter attached to a photo of a missing woman, sends Detective Adeline head-first into an investigation that leads straight back to the Jackson, Mississipi hometown she she was banished from 9 years earlier.
There she is reunited with her first love, the man who betrayed her, and the criminal family who would prefer to see her 6 feet deep.
But when a second woman goes missing and she learns of a connection between both women and herself she is determined to find them, even if that entails a deal with the devil.
I won’t get granular but the FMC is a lone wolf type and I personally find this to be a tired character trope in mystery/crime fiction. The storyline kept me flipping the pages and the ever present threat of danger from Adeline’s criminal family added an extra layer of suspense. However the lead-up to the final showdown made the book fall apart and that is in the FMC’s deeply senseless choices. Also of note, the opening chapter to the first chapter of our FMC’s POV is perhaps the most inappropriate transition ever.
May 13, 2026
She thought she had escaped the corruption and betrayal...
..but when Adeline is forced back to her home town she realises the secrets and lies that have brought her back make the corruption and betrayal of nine years ago fade into the background. Some secrets are definitely better left buried, and this one should have been left alone, but even those who thought they knew the truth thirty years ago are surprised by the details that Adeline finally uncovers in this haunting case. Just hearing the word "Princess" said with such derision sends chills rippling down your back as Addie and Wyatt race against time and through the increasing number of bodies to find not only the perpetrator but also those who are aiding him....those who should know better....and those who have everything to lose.
Dark, dangerous and disturbing this book is like a train wreck that you can see happening, but cannot look away from. I listened to it on Audible with Kindle Unlimited and I couldn't switch it off, I could feel the frustration, the terror, the horror and the vile hatred that seeps from every word.
..but when Adeline is forced back to her home town she realises the secrets and lies that have brought her back make the corruption and betrayal of nine years ago fade into the background. Some secrets are definitely better left buried, and this one should have been left alone, but even those who thought they knew the truth thirty years ago are surprised by the details that Adeline finally uncovers in this haunting case. Just hearing the word "Princess" said with such derision sends chills rippling down your back as Addie and Wyatt race against time and through the increasing number of bodies to find not only the perpetrator but also those who are aiding him....those who should know better....and those who have everything to lose.
Dark, dangerous and disturbing this book is like a train wreck that you can see happening, but cannot look away from. I listened to it on Audible with Kindle Unlimited and I couldn't switch it off, I could feel the frustration, the terror, the horror and the vile hatred that seeps from every word.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to the author and Netgalley for providing a digital review copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review
This was a thrilling, fast-paced read. I really enjoyed the sense of unease that kept lingering throughout this whole book. I have a few complaints that prevent me from truly loving this book however. The narrator didn't really differentiate between the different POVs so it was really hard to tell them apart. I also think some of the twists didn't really make much sense when examined too closely. I didn't really love the addition of "supernatural" elements they added in. Maybe the intention was to make this book more creepy, but it failed at that. The characters feel very layered and real, though I wish Wyatt's POV spent less time whining about how he misses/loves Addie and how he wants her back. It got old fast. Despite those flaws, I really enjoyed this book. I don't want to say too much and spoil the book for you, but if you enjoy fast-paced thrillers with a lot of twists and turns, you can't go wrong with this one.
This was a thrilling, fast-paced read. I really enjoyed the sense of unease that kept lingering throughout this whole book. I have a few complaints that prevent me from truly loving this book however. The narrator didn't really differentiate between the different POVs so it was really hard to tell them apart. I also think some of the twists didn't really make much sense when examined too closely. I didn't really love the addition of "supernatural" elements they added in. Maybe the intention was to make this book more creepy, but it failed at that. The characters feel very layered and real, though I wish Wyatt's POV spent less time whining about how he misses/loves Addie and how he wants her back. It got old fast. Despite those flaws, I really enjoyed this book. I don't want to say too much and spoil the book for you, but if you enjoy fast-paced thrillers with a lot of twists and turns, you can't go wrong with this one.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you NetGalley for the early copy for my review. Oh wow! What a story! This book is about a detective, Addy,,who goes hone to help out in a case that is linked to her and the letters she has been receiving. However, needless to say, she s not very welcomed in her home town due to an incident she was involved in nine years ago. However, it’s important that she sees this through as there are two women who are missing who look so much like her. On top,of all this, she’s forced to work this case with her ec boyfriend who is the sheriff and he’s the major reason why she was forced to leave her home. This story is quite the twisted thriller. But will Addy be able to save the two women or will she be too late to save them from the psycho who kidnapped them? This book is quite the page turner and I couldn’t put it down. There is so much family drama involved and unfortunately abuse but topped with some romance. I do recommend this book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was such a gripping, emotionally layered thriller that really pulls you in from the start. The atmosphere is heavy and immersive, with a sense of unease that lingers throughout the story. I loved how the mystery unfolded—there were enough twists and reveals to keep me guessing without feeling overcomplicated.
The characters felt real and complex, especially the main character, whose personal struggles added depth to the investigation. The emotional weight of the story hit hard at times, making it more than just a typical suspense novel.
If I had to nitpick, there were a few moments where I wanted just a little more clarity or development in certain areas, but overall it didn’t take away from how engaging the story was.
Definitely a strong 4-star read—perfect if you like dark, emotional thrillers with a haunting edge.
The characters felt real and complex, especially the main character, whose personal struggles added depth to the investigation. The emotional weight of the story hit hard at times, making it more than just a typical suspense novel.
If I had to nitpick, there were a few moments where I wanted just a little more clarity or development in certain areas, but overall it didn’t take away from how engaging the story was.
Definitely a strong 4-star read—perfect if you like dark, emotional thrillers with a haunting edge.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Amazing! Just amazing!
I always love a good thriller with a pinch of romance and plot twists.
Heroine, Adeline, receives a threatening letter and decides to go back to her hometown where the hero, Wyatt, is the Sheriff and responsible for the ongoing investigation and the one that betrayed her heart nine years ago.
Adeline is a stubborn and very capable cop with a strong sense of right. Going back to her hometown reignites old hatred between her and her extended family.
Wyatt has accomplished to clean the station but still feels guilty for his betrayal to Adeline while tries to protect her at any cost.
There's a lot of tension, suspense, heartbreaking, some plot twists that I didn't expect. The writing was really smooth and captivating making me read page after page without any care.
I received this arc and this is my honest opinion.
I always love a good thriller with a pinch of romance and plot twists.
Heroine, Adeline, receives a threatening letter and decides to go back to her hometown where the hero, Wyatt, is the Sheriff and responsible for the ongoing investigation and the one that betrayed her heart nine years ago.
Adeline is a stubborn and very capable cop with a strong sense of right. Going back to her hometown reignites old hatred between her and her extended family.
Wyatt has accomplished to clean the station but still feels guilty for his betrayal to Adeline while tries to protect her at any cost.
There's a lot of tension, suspense, heartbreaking, some plot twists that I didn't expect. The writing was really smooth and captivating making me read page after page without any care.
I received this arc and this is my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
3.25 ⭐️ Thank you NetGalley for this Advanced Listener Copy in exchange for an honest review.
Detective Adeline returns to her hometown, which she never planned on doing again to help solve a case of two missing women. Along the way, she starts receiving threatening messages indicating that she is next.
I really wanted to like this book. It started off intriguing but by the 50% mark, I was waiting for things to pick up. Unfortunately, the pace just slowed for me from there.
I would consider this book more of a mystery than anything else. I didn't find it thrilling, nor did I ever feel on the edge of my seat.
There was also a romance subplot in this book that really didn't hit for me.
I would be willing to read another book by this author but I wasn't a big fan of this one.
Detective Adeline returns to her hometown, which she never planned on doing again to help solve a case of two missing women. Along the way, she starts receiving threatening messages indicating that she is next.
I really wanted to like this book. It started off intriguing but by the 50% mark, I was waiting for things to pick up. Unfortunately, the pace just slowed for me from there.
I would consider this book more of a mystery than anything else. I didn't find it thrilling, nor did I ever feel on the edge of my seat.
There was also a romance subplot in this book that really didn't hit for me.
I would be willing to read another book by this author but I wasn't a big fan of this one.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Another hit from this author along with good narration by Carly Robins. This audiobook kept me enthralled in a multilayered, suspense thriller.
The story of Detective Adeline (Addie) Cooper is filled with twists and turns as she returns to her hometown after receiving a cryptic note and photo of a local girl who has gone missing. It’s a place she swore she would never return to. When she arrives, another girl goes missing and Addie is determined to find them. As she finds connections between the two missing girls, she also uncovers long hidden secrets about her own past.
With family dynamics at play, secrets are revealed that keep the story flowing and difficult to put down.
I received an arc from NetGalley and Brilliance Audio and leave my review voluntarily.
The story of Detective Adeline (Addie) Cooper is filled with twists and turns as she returns to her hometown after receiving a cryptic note and photo of a local girl who has gone missing. It’s a place she swore she would never return to. When she arrives, another girl goes missing and Addie is determined to find them. As she finds connections between the two missing girls, she also uncovers long hidden secrets about her own past.
With family dynamics at play, secrets are revealed that keep the story flowing and difficult to put down.
I received an arc from NetGalley and Brilliance Audio and leave my review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
After being forced out of her hometown by her corrupt family, Detective Adeline Cooper returns when a missing woman who looks just like her is found in a chilling photo with a threatening message. As more women resembling Adeline are targeted, she’s pulled into a dangerous investigation—and back into the orbit of her former boyfriend, now the town’s sheriff.
This was an entertaining, suspenseful read with a steady, slow-burn build. The moody atmosphere and underlying tension keep you engaged, while the mix of investigation and family drama adds depth beyond a typical procedural.
A solid pick if you’re in the mood for something ominous and character-driven.
After being forced out of her hometown by her corrupt family, Detective Adeline Cooper returns when a missing woman who looks just like her is found in a chilling photo with a threatening message. As more women resembling Adeline are targeted, she’s pulled into a dangerous investigation—and back into the orbit of her former boyfriend, now the town’s sheriff.
This was an entertaining, suspenseful read with a steady, slow-burn build. The moody atmosphere and underlying tension keep you engaged, while the mix of investigation and family drama adds depth beyond a typical procedural.
A solid pick if you’re in the mood for something ominous and character-driven.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Detective Adeline Cooper had left her hometown 9 years before after an event that caused her great pain and a cousin died.
She's about to get a promotion in her new job, hours away from her hometown. But she gets involved in a crime in her hometown when someone reaches out and provides her with a clue to the disappearance. She heads back to the hometown, and her former love, who is now the sheriff. They had a bad breakup after that event 9 years before.
Two women are now missing. At least one has received unsettling notes, similar to Adeline's. But try as the police might, they couldn't find a link between them. And they couldn't find the women.
This story has many twists, turns, and surprises.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for access to an early copy of the e-book.
She's about to get a promotion in her new job, hours away from her hometown. But she gets involved in a crime in her hometown when someone reaches out and provides her with a clue to the disappearance. She heads back to the hometown, and her former love, who is now the sheriff. They had a bad breakup after that event 9 years before.
Two women are now missing. At least one has received unsettling notes, similar to Adeline's. But try as the police might, they couldn't find a link between them. And they couldn't find the women.
This story has many twists, turns, and surprises.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for access to an early copy of the e-book.
May 16, 2026
Thank you to Debra Webb, Thomas & Mercer, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this ARC!
This was my introduction to Debra Webb’s writing, and I can confidently say that I will be back for more. There were a lot of good elements to this book that I enjoy in a thriller. There are secrets, lies, betrayal, and revenge, and the pacing was fast and excellent for the story. This one really just hits you right out of the gate and takes you on a ride. The tension was palpable, and you were able to get invested in the story. I thought Adeline’s character was done really well, and as someone from a law enforcement background, reading about a character in investigations, I tend to be picky (unintentionally) on the technicalities of fiction books when it comes to investigative procedure. Trust me when I say I don’t want to be that way. I understand it is a fiction book and literally anything can happen, and that is okay, but I am being so serious when I say I can’t help it. It’s why I don’t watch CSI. But I digress… thankfully, this book had no issues on the investigative front, and I was able to enjoy it as it was meant to be enjoyed.
This was my introduction to Debra Webb’s writing, and I can confidently say that I will be back for more. There were a lot of good elements to this book that I enjoy in a thriller. There are secrets, lies, betrayal, and revenge, and the pacing was fast and excellent for the story. This one really just hits you right out of the gate and takes you on a ride. The tension was palpable, and you were able to get invested in the story. I thought Adeline’s character was done really well, and as someone from a law enforcement background, reading about a character in investigations, I tend to be picky (unintentionally) on the technicalities of fiction books when it comes to investigative procedure. Trust me when I say I don’t want to be that way. I understand it is a fiction book and literally anything can happen, and that is okay, but I am being so serious when I say I can’t help it. It’s why I don’t watch CSI. But I digress… thankfully, this book had no issues on the investigative front, and I was able to enjoy it as it was meant to be enjoyed.
May 12, 2026
I loved this story. Debra Webb is a queen of suspense.
Adeline fled her hometown years ago. She never expected to go back, but a case gave her no choice, and now she is being hunted. Can she outwit her stalker and save others lives? Can she handle the truth about her past as it unfolds?
Wyatt has worked hard to clean up the corruption he inherited when he was made sheriff, but he never expected to have a woman missing from his little town either. When his past walks in to help solve the case, he is thrown for a loop.
Together they have no choice but to solve this or die trying. As the secrets unfold and they get closer to the stalker, can they save all the lives that depend on them?
Adeline fled her hometown years ago. She never expected to go back, but a case gave her no choice, and now she is being hunted. Can she outwit her stalker and save others lives? Can she handle the truth about her past as it unfolds?
Wyatt has worked hard to clean up the corruption he inherited when he was made sheriff, but he never expected to have a woman missing from his little town either. When his past walks in to help solve the case, he is thrown for a loop.
Together they have no choice but to solve this or die trying. As the secrets unfold and they get closer to the stalker, can they save all the lives that depend on them?
May 15, 2026
Great story! I love that there were multiple layers of secrets. The main character was a little bit frustrating at times with her stubbornness but it makes sense considering her history and the job she has. I don’t really have much to say except that it was driving me crazy that everyone had a dialogue about things that happened in the past but yet we have no clue what they are talking and are left confused and clueless all throughout the first third of the book. But this made me want to keep reading to figure out what was going on… I read this book within a few hours. I still want to know what Carl died from though. It was the first by this author and I’ll be looking into more books of hers now! 4.5 ⭐️
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for a copy of this new edited version.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for a copy of this new edited version.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Adeline (Addy) Cooper police detective was once in love with Sheriff Wyatt Henderson since she was 17 years old. She returns home after 9 years (she vowed to never return) to help solve the disappearance of city attorney Cherry Prescott. Her welcome home was 4 slashed tires! Having been warned by her uncle Cyrus “step foot in MS. again and you’re dead!” Addy received 2 letters pasted with cut out letters,they make no sense & Cherry had received similar letters…..”One dead princess,two to go”! If you’re a fan of suspense,then you’re going to love this book. This book is a rewrite of the book Anywhere She Runs. Release date is 4-12,thank you Debra Elaine Webb For entertaining us 💕
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I just devoured , The Drowning Season' by Debra Webb. The summary alone had me completely hooked from the get-go, promising a real page turner. And let me tell you, it delivered! This is one of those heart pounding thrillers that truly keeps you on the edge of your seat. Seriously, once I blasted past Chapter 23, my plans for the night pretty much went out the window because there was no way I could put it down. Addy, the main detective, is such a fierce, strong character; I was totally invested in her journey. I was literally holding my breath, desperate to find out if she made it through all the madness alive!
5 stars!!!
5 stars!!!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to Netgalley and Thomas & Mercer for the advance copy.
Detective Adeline Cooper left Mississippi years ago not only for her own safety. but because the events involved her family and the betrayal of her boyfriend Wyatt.
A letter Addy receives compels her to return, which coincides with the disappearance of a woman. When another "princess" disappears, Addy and Wyatt race to save these women, while keeping Addy safe. Her family's secrets, as well as the animosity of Addy's uncle and cousin, add to the twists of the storyline.
This wasn't necessarily a heart thumper, but definitely an engaging and easy read.
Detective Adeline Cooper left Mississippi years ago not only for her own safety. but because the events involved her family and the betrayal of her boyfriend Wyatt.
A letter Addy receives compels her to return, which coincides with the disappearance of a woman. When another "princess" disappears, Addy and Wyatt race to save these women, while keeping Addy safe. Her family's secrets, as well as the animosity of Addy's uncle and cousin, add to the twists of the storyline.
This wasn't necessarily a heart thumper, but definitely an engaging and easy read.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Drowning Season by Debra Webb has a detective doing something that she had promised herself she would never do. That would be returning to the hometown of her powerful but corrupt family. A stalker story where the kidnapped women resemble Detective Adeline Cooper has her investigating. A complex story where the women need to be saved, Adeline needs to fear for her own safety while it is difficult to know who can be trusted. There is a romantic element to the story, but it is the police and investigative that keep me intrigued. The Drowning Season is a released romantic suspense, formerly titled, Anywhere She Runs.
Read
May 12, 2026Thank you Thomas & Mercer / Amazon Publishing for the ARC of The Drowning Season by Debra Webb!
I was reading this on NetGalley and went to look something up on Amazon and realized it's pub day + the book/audiobook are on Kindle Unlimited! 😍 When I saw that it's narrated by Carly Robins, I switched over to the audiobook immediately!
I love a Southern thriller especially when I'm familiar with all of the cities! I thought the quote about the mosquitoes "carrying your ass off" during the summer was hilarious and 100% correct. 😂
This is an entertaining thriller and I like that there's also a little bit of romance! Great characters, interesting mystery, and great writing!
I was reading this on NetGalley and went to look something up on Amazon and realized it's pub day + the book/audiobook are on Kindle Unlimited! 😍 When I saw that it's narrated by Carly Robins, I switched over to the audiobook immediately!
I love a Southern thriller especially when I'm familiar with all of the cities! I thought the quote about the mosquitoes "carrying your ass off" during the summer was hilarious and 100% correct. 😂
This is an entertaining thriller and I like that there's also a little bit of romance! Great characters, interesting mystery, and great writing!
May 17, 2026
Detective Adeline Cooper has been receiving a couple of threatening letters. She swore never to return to Mississippi but a woman has vanished and she received the same letters. Her ex, Wyatt Henderson, is the sheriff and believes she was betrayed by him. When another woman goes missing, Adeline finds a connection between the two women and herself. They are all afraid of water. But it’s more than just missing women, secrets are revealed and it could rock Adeline’s world.
This was such an awesome story. Second chances. Secrets. I couldn’t put this down. It kept me on the edge of my seat. Ms. Webb is becoming one of my favorite authors. I voluntarily read and reviewed this for Netgalley.
This was such an awesome story. Second chances. Secrets. I couldn’t put this down. It kept me on the edge of my seat. Ms. Webb is becoming one of my favorite authors. I voluntarily read and reviewed this for Netgalley.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
After reading this story, I am reminded of the quote about tangled webs of deceits. Detective Adeline Cooper starts getting creepy notes that lead her back to the hometown she swore never to go to. Once there, she clashes with Sheriff Wyatt Henderson, who happens to be her ex. They have to work together to uncover the connection between the two kidnapped women and Adeline. At first, they struggle to figure out what they all have in common and as they under secret after secret, the danger and consequences ramp up. It is an intense read with revelation you don't see coming.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Addy never planned to go back to her hometown after being forced to leave by her corrupt uncle. When she receives a bizarre, cryptic letter in the mail, she heads back to her hometown to see how she connected to the two missing women.
I enjoyed The Drowning Season. Addy is a strong character and a force to be reckoned with. Her determination to get to the bottom of these disappearances kept me interested and turning pages.
Another great mystery from Debra Webb.
Thank you to NetGallery, Thomas and Mercer and Debra Webb for the ARC of this book.
I enjoyed The Drowning Season. Addy is a strong character and a force to be reckoned with. Her determination to get to the bottom of these disappearances kept me interested and turning pages.
Another great mystery from Debra Webb.
Thank you to NetGallery, Thomas and Mercer and Debra Webb for the ARC of this book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews