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In this gritty Taylor Jackson novel from New York Times bestselling author J.T. Ellison, a homicide detective falls into a darker fairy tale when an infamous storybook killer seems to return.
Lieutenant Taylor Jackson is no stranger to brutality, but her latest case shakes her to the core. The victims—with their pale skin, black hair, and ruby-red lips—recall a nightmare Nashville suffered decades ago. The Snow White Killer slaughtered ten princess look-alikes and was never caught.
A copycat is methodically recreating the Snow White murders, studying the original crimes and perfecting the craft. As Taylor fights to identify him before he completes his twisted homage, the investigation pulls her into a conspiracy that hits closer to home than she ever imagined.
Even with her own father missing and her wedding just days away, Taylor won’t stop until she has taken down this chilling protégé. But her pursuit of justice may destroy her own fairy-tale ending.
Revised The edition of 14 contains editorial revisions.
Lieutenant Taylor Jackson is no stranger to brutality, but her latest case shakes her to the core. The victims—with their pale skin, black hair, and ruby-red lips—recall a nightmare Nashville suffered decades ago. The Snow White Killer slaughtered ten princess look-alikes and was never caught.
A copycat is methodically recreating the Snow White murders, studying the original crimes and perfecting the craft. As Taylor fights to identify him before he completes his twisted homage, the investigation pulls her into a conspiracy that hits closer to home than she ever imagined.
Even with her own father missing and her wedding just days away, Taylor won’t stop until she has taken down this chilling protégé. But her pursuit of justice may destroy her own fairy-tale ending.
Revised The edition of 14 contains editorial revisions.
346 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2008
About the author
J.T. Ellison
86 books7,375 followersJ.T. Ellison is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of more than 30 novels, and the EMMY® award winning co-host of the literary TV show A WORD ON WORDS. She also writes fantasy under the pen name Joss Walker.
With millions of books in print, her work has won critical acclaim and prestigious awards They have also been optioned for television, and published in 28 countries.
J.T. lives in Nashville with her husband and twin kittens, one of whom is a ghost, where she is hard at work on her next novel.
With millions of books in print, her work has won critical acclaim and prestigious awards They have also been optioned for television, and published in 28 countries.
J.T. lives in Nashville with her husband and twin kittens, one of whom is a ghost, where she is hard at work on her next novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 365 reviews
August 17, 2017
3.5 stars
I finished this awhile ago and was behind on my reviews and never got around to reviewing it. So I am taking the easy way out on this review and putting down my thoughts on this since I am reviewing every book I read this year. I enjoyed this book and I did like it. I loved the first book. This one just didn't have the suspense like the first book did. I am really looking forward to reading the next book in the series and I am waiting for the next one on Overdrive.
I found this to be predictable. I do like Taylor's character.
Blurb
Rediscover fan‐favorite Lieutenant Taylor Jackson in book two of this riveting, intricately crafted thriller series from New York Times bestselling author J.T. Ellison.
Ten victims, each with pale skin and long dark hair. All slashed across the throat, the same red lipstick smeared across their lips.
In the mid‐1980s the Snow White Killer terrorized the streets of Nashville, Tennessee. Then suddenly the murders stopped. A letter from the killer to the police stated that his work was done.
Now four more bodies are found, marked with his fatal signature. The residents of Nashville fear a madman has returned, decades later, to finish his sick fairy tale. Homicide Lieutenant Taylor Jackson believes the killings are the work of a copycat killer who's even more terrifying. For this monster is meticulously honing his craft as he mimics famous serial murders...proving that the past is not to be forgotten.
June 15, 2026
An action-packed thrill ride from beginning to end, 14 was quite the follow-up to All the Pretty Girls. With an adrenaline-fueled cat-and-mouse chase as well as plenty of deliberate chess-like moves, this masterpiece of a novel was a total *chef’s kiss* read. You see, not only did Taylor Jackson get even more complex and true-to-life, but the twisty plotting of this copycat killer storyline had me guessing throughout. Thanks to oodles of side-eye-worthy suspects and devious red herrings, my armchair-sleuthing self happily had no clue what was going to happen next. After all, the twists and turns kept me on the edge of my seat while the storybook-gone-wrong feel added psychological tension and an impending sense of doom.
I do have to say, though, that this wasn’t necessarily centered around my favorite kind of topic. Not usually one for mob crime or gangster-related plot lines, I was kind of shocked by how much I loved this second book in the Lt. Jackson series. Then again, it explored family betrayals and long-buried secrets as it dove deeply into the nature of evil, all while throwing in a dash of romance. Perfect for fans of Karin Slaughter or Tess Gerritsen, it was a delicious mashup of gritty police procedural, action-packed crime thriller, and taut psychological suspense all in one nice, little package. So if any of the above strikes your fancy, grab this re-release now. The rest of the eight-book series is coming your way soon. Rating of 4.5 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
Lieutenant Taylor Jackson is no stranger to brutality, but her latest case shakes her to the core. The victims―with their pale skin, black hair, and ruby-red lips―recall a nightmare Nashville suffered decades ago. The Snow White Killer slaughtered ten princess look-alikes and was never caught.
A copycat is methodically recreating the Snow White murders, studying the original crimes and perfecting the craft. As Taylor fights to identify him before he completes his twisted homage, the investigation pulls her into a conspiracy that hits closer to home than she ever imagined.
Even with her own father missing and her wedding just days away, Taylor won’t stop until she has taken down this chilling protégé. But her pursuit of justice may destroy her own fairy-tale ending.
Thank you J.T. Ellison and Thomas & Mercer for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: May 19, 2026
Content warning: human trafficking, financial crimes, murder, violence, missing persons, gore, knife violence, stalking
I do have to say, though, that this wasn’t necessarily centered around my favorite kind of topic. Not usually one for mob crime or gangster-related plot lines, I was kind of shocked by how much I loved this second book in the Lt. Jackson series. Then again, it explored family betrayals and long-buried secrets as it dove deeply into the nature of evil, all while throwing in a dash of romance. Perfect for fans of Karin Slaughter or Tess Gerritsen, it was a delicious mashup of gritty police procedural, action-packed crime thriller, and taut psychological suspense all in one nice, little package. So if any of the above strikes your fancy, grab this re-release now. The rest of the eight-book series is coming your way soon. Rating of 4.5 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
Lieutenant Taylor Jackson is no stranger to brutality, but her latest case shakes her to the core. The victims―with their pale skin, black hair, and ruby-red lips―recall a nightmare Nashville suffered decades ago. The Snow White Killer slaughtered ten princess look-alikes and was never caught.
A copycat is methodically recreating the Snow White murders, studying the original crimes and perfecting the craft. As Taylor fights to identify him before he completes his twisted homage, the investigation pulls her into a conspiracy that hits closer to home than she ever imagined.
Even with her own father missing and her wedding just days away, Taylor won’t stop until she has taken down this chilling protégé. But her pursuit of justice may destroy her own fairy-tale ending.
Thank you J.T. Ellison and Thomas & Mercer for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: May 19, 2026
Content warning: human trafficking, financial crimes, murder, violence, missing persons, gore, knife violence, stalking
March 13, 2026
As soon as I saw the author’s name on NetGalley, I immediately clicked the request button. I honestly thought this was her brand-new release. But then I realized something surprising—this book was actually first published 18 years ago, and apparently it’s part of a long-running series with many installments. My reaction was basically: Whaaaat?! How did I miss an entire series like this?
Still, that discovery didn’t stop me. I jumped at the chance to read it anyway, because the premise sounded way too intriguing to pass up.
The concept immediately caught my attention. A serial killer recreating the infamous Snow White murders? That dark fairy-tale angle sounded deliciously creepy and completely irresistible for a thriller lover like me. The idea of a killer targeting women who resemble Snow White—pale skin, dark hair, ruby red lips—definitely gives the story a chilling and memorable hook.
The novel follows Lieutenant Taylor Jackson as she investigates a series of murders that echo an old Nashville case that was never solved. Decades ago, the so-called Snow White Killer terrorized the city before disappearing without a trace. Now it looks like someone has returned to repeat the nightmare. But this time the killer appears to be studying the original crimes carefully, recreating them with disturbing precision.
The premise itself is strong and the investigation has some intriguing moments. I enjoyed the eerie atmosphere created by the fairy-tale connection, and Nashville makes a vivid setting for the story. The idea of someone obsessively trying to “perfect” an old killer’s work adds a disturbing psychological layer that kept me curious about where the story would go.
However, while the concept is fascinating, the execution didn’t always fully work for me.
At times the pacing felt uneven. Some parts moved quickly and pulled me into the investigation, but other sections slowed down with details that didn’t feel completely necessary. I also found some developments a bit predictable, which reduced the suspense in places where I was hoping for bigger surprises.
Another aspect that didn’t completely work for me was the heavy focus on Taylor’s personal life. Her upcoming wedding and family issues certainly add emotional context to her character, but sometimes it felt like these elements interrupted the flow of the investigation rather than strengthening it. Personally, I would have preferred the story to stay a little more focused on the mystery itself.
That said, Taylor is still an interesting protagonist. She’s determined, dedicated to her work, and clearly willing to push herself to the limit to stop a killer—even while her own life feels like it’s falling apart around her.
Overall, this was still an engaging read with a creative premise and a dark fairy-tale twist that makes it stand out from typical serial killer thrillers. While some pacing issues and predictable elements kept it from being a standout for me, the story was intriguing enough to keep me turning the pages.
I’m rounding this one up to three stars—a solid thriller with a unique concept, even if it didn’t completely reach its full potential for me.
A very huge thanks to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for sharing this intriguing mystery with me in exchange for my honest feedback.
Still, that discovery didn’t stop me. I jumped at the chance to read it anyway, because the premise sounded way too intriguing to pass up.
The concept immediately caught my attention. A serial killer recreating the infamous Snow White murders? That dark fairy-tale angle sounded deliciously creepy and completely irresistible for a thriller lover like me. The idea of a killer targeting women who resemble Snow White—pale skin, dark hair, ruby red lips—definitely gives the story a chilling and memorable hook.
The novel follows Lieutenant Taylor Jackson as she investigates a series of murders that echo an old Nashville case that was never solved. Decades ago, the so-called Snow White Killer terrorized the city before disappearing without a trace. Now it looks like someone has returned to repeat the nightmare. But this time the killer appears to be studying the original crimes carefully, recreating them with disturbing precision.
The premise itself is strong and the investigation has some intriguing moments. I enjoyed the eerie atmosphere created by the fairy-tale connection, and Nashville makes a vivid setting for the story. The idea of someone obsessively trying to “perfect” an old killer’s work adds a disturbing psychological layer that kept me curious about where the story would go.
However, while the concept is fascinating, the execution didn’t always fully work for me.
At times the pacing felt uneven. Some parts moved quickly and pulled me into the investigation, but other sections slowed down with details that didn’t feel completely necessary. I also found some developments a bit predictable, which reduced the suspense in places where I was hoping for bigger surprises.
Another aspect that didn’t completely work for me was the heavy focus on Taylor’s personal life. Her upcoming wedding and family issues certainly add emotional context to her character, but sometimes it felt like these elements interrupted the flow of the investigation rather than strengthening it. Personally, I would have preferred the story to stay a little more focused on the mystery itself.
That said, Taylor is still an interesting protagonist. She’s determined, dedicated to her work, and clearly willing to push herself to the limit to stop a killer—even while her own life feels like it’s falling apart around her.
Overall, this was still an engaging read with a creative premise and a dark fairy-tale twist that makes it stand out from typical serial killer thrillers. While some pacing issues and predictable elements kept it from being a standout for me, the story was intriguing enough to keep me turning the pages.
I’m rounding this one up to three stars—a solid thriller with a unique concept, even if it didn’t completely reach its full potential for me.
A very huge thanks to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for sharing this intriguing mystery with me in exchange for my honest feedback.
February 26, 2015
If there is indeed a formula for writing a murder mystery, this book followed it. The story was predictable. No real surprises.
April 30, 2019
I thought this was a pretty good book overall, interesting and enough action going on that it really held my attention. I didn't realize this was one of a series at first but there was enough background so as I wasn't lost, however I do plan on going back and reading the other Lt Taylor books and every other book J.T. Ellison has ever wrote as her writing style and storytelling flows.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Happy Publication Day May 19, 2026!!! A day late with this🤦🏼♀️. 2 hours at the clinic yesterday morning made it slip my mind I guess🙄.
7/10: 3.5⭐️’s rounded down to 3⭐️’s
Lt. Taylor Jackson has another serial murderer on her hands. Years ago ‘Snow White’ claimed 10 victims. Then silence. He was never caught. Now it seems he is back. With her wedding coming up, her father missing, and not wanting to find another victim, Taylor feels the urgency to get this case solved and see ‘Snow White’ stopped for good.
There are so many things happening in this book. Much like book 1 of this series. So many moving parts and pieces from all over that need to find their place in this twisted puzzle. It can be a bit much. A bit hard, for me at least, to connect everything. A few things were particularly disturbing and discusting, one thing (well more than one, but this was just beyond anything I have ever read or listened to in a book)had me thinking ‘what in the actual ****’. Yet….something has drawn me into this series. Though I am not entirely sure what that thing is.
It frightens me that there are people out there like this. It boggles my mind. And the wide variety of crap people in this book, as things unfold, how do things like this happen?
The author writes what she writes well. If she was going for twisted and messed up, she succeeded.
I am almost afraid to see what the next book entails, but I know that I will snatch it up if it becomes available.
A few nitpicky things, such as calling a grown man ‘puppy’ and more than one person referring to women as ‘little girl’.
The weather in Nashville stood out to me. I didn’t realize they got so much snow there! Weather is also something that boggles my mind. It is in the high 70’s today. Sunday there was a bit of a blizzard and over a foot of snow. Monday the high felt like below zero with the windchill. Tomorrow will be in the upper 40’s for a high. It makes no sense to me at all.
Anyways……
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc of the revised edition of this book. All thoughts are my own.
Revised edition publication date: May 19, 26
Rating and review posted: 3/21/26
Reposted for publication day (a day late): 5/20/26
7/10: 3.5⭐️’s rounded down to 3⭐️’s
Lt. Taylor Jackson has another serial murderer on her hands. Years ago ‘Snow White’ claimed 10 victims. Then silence. He was never caught. Now it seems he is back. With her wedding coming up, her father missing, and not wanting to find another victim, Taylor feels the urgency to get this case solved and see ‘Snow White’ stopped for good.
There are so many things happening in this book. Much like book 1 of this series. So many moving parts and pieces from all over that need to find their place in this twisted puzzle. It can be a bit much. A bit hard, for me at least, to connect everything. A few things were particularly disturbing and discusting, one thing (well more than one, but this was just beyond anything I have ever read or listened to in a book)had me thinking ‘what in the actual ****’. Yet….something has drawn me into this series. Though I am not entirely sure what that thing is.
It frightens me that there are people out there like this. It boggles my mind. And the wide variety of crap people in this book, as things unfold, how do things like this happen?
The author writes what she writes well. If she was going for twisted and messed up, she succeeded.
I am almost afraid to see what the next book entails, but I know that I will snatch it up if it becomes available.
A few nitpicky things, such as calling a grown man ‘puppy’ and more than one person referring to women as ‘little girl’.
The weather in Nashville stood out to me. I didn’t realize they got so much snow there! Weather is also something that boggles my mind. It is in the high 70’s today. Sunday there was a bit of a blizzard and over a foot of snow. Monday the high felt like below zero with the windchill. Tomorrow will be in the upper 40’s for a high. It makes no sense to me at all.
Anyways……
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc of the revised edition of this book. All thoughts are my own.
Revised edition publication date: May 19, 26
Rating and review posted: 3/21/26
Reposted for publication day (a day late): 5/20/26
Read
February 5, 2012My brother loaned me this book. Hmmm, serial killer, similar victims, back after 30 years, sounds like it's right up my alley. Then, on page 30, I got to the following paragraph:
“John Baldwin stood with his arms crossed and one long leg propped against the wall behind him. He'd been avidly ignoring the receptionist for a good fifteen minutes; she'd been staring at him like he was a tasty dessert since he'd entered the building. He'd become entirely oblivious to all but the most blatant attempts to get his attention since Taylor (the protagonist) had entered his life. He had eyes only for her ….”
*Screech* The brakes slammed on and I came to a halt.
If he's oblivious to attempts to get his attention, it must be a pain if he's ahead of you in the line for coffee. As for him having eyes only for her, has the author met any men? We aren't all dogs, we don't chase everything in a skirt that walks by, but in my experience and talking to other men, unless we're blind, had brain surgery, or have been taken to the vet to be fixed, we still look. With some version of faked maturity, we make an attempt to stop being obvious about it.
I get it, it's your book, not mine, you're permitted to use exaggerations to emphasize a point, even if it's cribbed from romance novels. I'm also allowed to close the book and move on to something else, which I did.
“John Baldwin stood with his arms crossed and one long leg propped against the wall behind him. He'd been avidly ignoring the receptionist for a good fifteen minutes; she'd been staring at him like he was a tasty dessert since he'd entered the building. He'd become entirely oblivious to all but the most blatant attempts to get his attention since Taylor (the protagonist) had entered his life. He had eyes only for her ….”
*Screech* The brakes slammed on and I came to a halt.
If he's oblivious to attempts to get his attention, it must be a pain if he's ahead of you in the line for coffee. As for him having eyes only for her, has the author met any men? We aren't all dogs, we don't chase everything in a skirt that walks by, but in my experience and talking to other men, unless we're blind, had brain surgery, or have been taken to the vet to be fixed, we still look. With some version of faked maturity, we make an attempt to stop being obvious about it.
I get it, it's your book, not mine, you're permitted to use exaggerations to emphasize a point, even if it's cribbed from romance novels. I'm also allowed to close the book and move on to something else, which I did.
July 18, 2026
Fourteen shades of frustration.
I wasn't exactly blown away by All The Pretty Girls , the first book in J.T. Ellison's Taylor Jackson series, mainly because many of the investigative procedures hadn't aged particularly well. Unfortunately, this revised edition of the 2008 follow-up, 14 , managed to test my patience even more.
Let's start with the dialogue. Calling a trafficking and rape survivor a "pro"? Casually commenting on the waistline of a woman who appears for all of two sentences? Taylor Jackson has been dismissive of others - especially other women and victims she perceives as "weak" - from the start, but I am rapidly running out of goodwill.
The series also continues its habit of painting characters in simplistic, broad strokes. People are either entirely good or irredeemably bad, with very little nuance or complexity in between. Character development remains frustratingly thin, and after two books, I still don't feel like I know Taylor much better than I did when I met her. Her relationship with her fiancé, Baldwin, also remains baffling. If she dreads getting married this much, perhaps... have that conversation with the man you're about to marry? And Baldwin hoping for a romantic night in NYC under certain circumstances just seemed insensitive. Overall, I continue to find their relationship far more puzzling than romantic. They definitely seem more in lust than in love.
As for the mystery itself, it was perfectly serviceable without ever becoming particularly memorable. The idea of a potential copycat reviving the infamous Snow White Killer is undeniably creepy, and I initially enjoyed the concept of an apprentice studying and refining famous murders. Unfortunately, the more we learn about the killer, the more implausible everything becomes. By the final act, I found myself rolling my eyes more often than holding my breath.
And then there are the little things that kept pulling me out of the story. Are we really supposed to believe that the head of a homicide investigation has no one on her team capable of doing basic background research on Nashville's high society, forcing her instead to rely on dreams to surface forgotten memories? Time and again, the novel manufactures obstacles that could have been solved with a quick phone call or a competent colleague. It doesn't make Taylor seem clever that she continues to insist on doing everything herself; it just makes her seem like a bad leader, and feels like lazy storytelling.
While I'll continue with the series for now, after two books I'm still waiting for it to become as compelling as its premises.
Many thanks to Thomas & Mercer for providing me with an ARC of this book via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
The revised edition of "14" was released on May 19, 2026, and is available now.
I wasn't exactly blown away by All The Pretty Girls , the first book in J.T. Ellison's Taylor Jackson series, mainly because many of the investigative procedures hadn't aged particularly well. Unfortunately, this revised edition of the 2008 follow-up, 14 , managed to test my patience even more.
Let's start with the dialogue. Calling a trafficking and rape survivor a "pro"? Casually commenting on the waistline of a woman who appears for all of two sentences? Taylor Jackson has been dismissive of others - especially other women and victims she perceives as "weak" - from the start, but I am rapidly running out of goodwill.
The series also continues its habit of painting characters in simplistic, broad strokes. People are either entirely good or irredeemably bad, with very little nuance or complexity in between. Character development remains frustratingly thin, and after two books, I still don't feel like I know Taylor much better than I did when I met her. Her relationship with her fiancé, Baldwin, also remains baffling. If she dreads getting married this much, perhaps... have that conversation with the man you're about to marry? And Baldwin hoping for a romantic night in NYC under certain circumstances just seemed insensitive. Overall, I continue to find their relationship far more puzzling than romantic. They definitely seem more in lust than in love.
As for the mystery itself, it was perfectly serviceable without ever becoming particularly memorable. The idea of a potential copycat reviving the infamous Snow White Killer is undeniably creepy, and I initially enjoyed the concept of an apprentice studying and refining famous murders. Unfortunately, the more we learn about the killer, the more implausible everything becomes. By the final act, I found myself rolling my eyes more often than holding my breath.
And then there are the little things that kept pulling me out of the story. Are we really supposed to believe that the head of a homicide investigation has no one on her team capable of doing basic background research on Nashville's high society, forcing her instead to rely on dreams to surface forgotten memories? Time and again, the novel manufactures obstacles that could have been solved with a quick phone call or a competent colleague. It doesn't make Taylor seem clever that she continues to insist on doing everything herself; it just makes her seem like a bad leader, and feels like lazy storytelling.
While I'll continue with the series for now, after two books I'm still waiting for it to become as compelling as its premises.
Many thanks to Thomas & Mercer for providing me with an ARC of this book via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
The revised edition of "14" was released on May 19, 2026, and is available now.
Did Not Finish
January 11, 2013Dnf on page 113, actually. So many books to get through on my shelf, so little time. I'm sad because the first book showed potential in the series, but this book is extremely sexist and I'm not here for this. Slut-shaming all around unless you are the MC, and what would be considered the "good girl". So, BYE. I probably will not continue this series.
October 31, 2022
This is working up to be a pretty solid series, and I’m enjoying it.
I don’t know that I enjoyed charlotte’s story line, it was a bit on the cliche side, but the serial killer was intriguing so I liked watching that play out.
I happen to really enjoy the array of characters the author ads, with just enough personality and background without being too much 👌🏽
Solid.
I don’t know that I enjoyed charlotte’s story line, it was a bit on the cliche side, but the serial killer was intriguing so I liked watching that play out.
I happen to really enjoy the array of characters the author ads, with just enough personality and background without being too much 👌🏽
Solid.
February 28, 2021
One of the best books in the Taylor Jackson series! Some very nasty players are involved in first, human trafficing, money laundering, and of course murder - serial murder that is, which involved a copycat. Murders from many years ago come to light when murders start piling up once more. Taylor really has her hands (and mind) full of the Snow White murders. All the victims have very similar traits, long black hair and red lipstick with enhanced smiles!
The book moves along quite quickly, and red herrings are tossed in just enough to make you think!
5 stars and 2 thumbs up!
The book moves along quite quickly, and red herrings are tossed in just enough to make you think!
5 stars and 2 thumbs up!
September 23, 2018
An enjoyable read if a bit predictable. Some of it is a bit far fetched in the character of Charlotte. The Snow White killer is back or is he? Murdering women who look like Snow White and adding a bit of lipstick to make it even more gruesome. Taylor’s homicide team is to perfect for me and I think Baldwin also is to good to be true. She dropped a hint that she was marrying him and yet did not really know him. Plus his taste in women is very questionable. Saying all that the author writes in a formulaic way that is enjoyable to read. Look forward to read more in this series.
December 13, 2019
I really like this series - Taylor Jackson is a fascinating character. If you're a fan of stories involving the hunting of serial killers, you may want to give this one a shot!
March 30, 2017
I haven't read this series in a while and now I'm going to have to move it up on my TBR since I remembered why I liked them so much in the first place.
Another brilliant character from a terrific author who knows how to keep the suspense rolling and the action steady. Loved it!
Another brilliant character from a terrific author who knows how to keep the suspense rolling and the action steady. Loved it!
May 17, 2013
Though I had a rather frustrating time getting my hands on this book, once I did, it was well worth the wait! This follow-up to All The Pretty Girls was a very solid sequel. The writing wasn’t quite as polished with a few distracting inconsistencies with the perspective. The plot, however, contained a lot more surprises and moved at an even faster speed than the first volume in the Taylor Jackson series. The romantic relationships played a larger role here - the actions were less implied than before and more frequent. The serial killer angle worked well here - and really set the stage for future novels in the series, really adding to the excitement.
One thing that did bother me throughout the book was a rather obvious solution... One of the big breaks in the case dealt directly with a childhood memory of Taylor’s. This could have been solved so much sooner had she just called her mother in Switzerland - stilted relationship aside, she could have at least tried - there certainly was a great deal of time spent setting up just how readily Kitty would remember the couple because of her dismay over the costume. But, that annoyance aside, this was a fast-paced and fun read, though perhaps a bit less realistic feeling than some other thrillers in the genre.
And with its cliffhanger of an ending - it made me thankful that I already own the third book, Judas Kiss, and am ready to start reading immediately!
One thing that did bother me throughout the book was a rather obvious solution... One of the big breaks in the case dealt directly with a childhood memory of Taylor’s. This could have been solved so much sooner had she just called her mother in Switzerland - stilted relationship aside, she could have at least tried - there certainly was a great deal of time spent setting up just how readily Kitty would remember the couple because of her dismay over the costume. But, that annoyance aside, this was a fast-paced and fun read, though perhaps a bit less realistic feeling than some other thrillers in the genre.
And with its cliffhanger of an ending - it made me thankful that I already own the third book, Judas Kiss, and am ready to start reading immediately!
June 6, 2026
14 - J.T. Ellison
Pub Date - 5/19/26 | Thomas & Mercer
Rating - ☕️☕️☕️.5/5
Thoughts - Thank you to Netgalley, the author, and Thomas & Mercer for this gifted ARC in exchange for my honest review.
When a series of murders mirrors the infamous unsolved crimes of the Snow White Killer, Nashville homicide lieutenant Taylor Jackson is thrust into a chilling hunt for a copycat determined to perfect the original killer’s work. As the investigation deepens, Taylor uncovers a conspiracy that strikes dangerously close to home. With her father missing and her wedding fast approaching, she must stop the killer before the case destroys her chance at a happy ending.
I enjoyed the second installment of this series! The reader gets a little more insight into the lives of Taylor Jackson, her FBI fiancé, and her team and gets immersed in their life. While that part was fun and I enjoyed this book more than the first, I didn't blow me out of the water and at a point, the author basically gives us the twist without any other surprises. It was a good mystery, but landed a little middle of the road for me.
I did enjoy the banter and the series, so I'll be reading the rest of the series!
Read if you like:
🔪 serial killer thrillers with a chilling signature
🕰️ cold cases that come back to haunt the present
🕵️ cat-and-mouse investigations and determined detectives
🖤 dark, gritty mysteries with copycat killers and high stakes
#bookreview #lttaylorjackson #14
Pub Date - 5/19/26 | Thomas & Mercer
Rating - ☕️☕️☕️.5/5
Thoughts - Thank you to Netgalley, the author, and Thomas & Mercer for this gifted ARC in exchange for my honest review.
When a series of murders mirrors the infamous unsolved crimes of the Snow White Killer, Nashville homicide lieutenant Taylor Jackson is thrust into a chilling hunt for a copycat determined to perfect the original killer’s work. As the investigation deepens, Taylor uncovers a conspiracy that strikes dangerously close to home. With her father missing and her wedding fast approaching, she must stop the killer before the case destroys her chance at a happy ending.
I enjoyed the second installment of this series! The reader gets a little more insight into the lives of Taylor Jackson, her FBI fiancé, and her team and gets immersed in their life. While that part was fun and I enjoyed this book more than the first, I didn't blow me out of the water and at a point, the author basically gives us the twist without any other surprises. It was a good mystery, but landed a little middle of the road for me.
I did enjoy the banter and the series, so I'll be reading the rest of the series!
Read if you like:
🔪 serial killer thrillers with a chilling signature
🕰️ cold cases that come back to haunt the present
🕵️ cat-and-mouse investigations and determined detectives
🖤 dark, gritty mysteries with copycat killers and high stakes
#bookreview #lttaylorjackson #14
May 6, 2020
Corona Virus is messing with my reading ~ but I'm getting better. This series took me a bit to get into but it is a keeper. Excellent plot, characters and sub plots.
July 17, 2026
This one was republished after 18 years and I grabbed it off NetGalley. It is the second book in a series about Taylor Jackson. I loved the first book and was excited to continue the series. This one didn't hold my attention as well. There were times when my attention would wander especially around the serial killer and their motivation and relationships. I did like how Taylor Jackson interacted with her team and her fiancee. I will definitely continue with the next book in the series..
September 19, 2026
it was only just okay. i think i preferred all the pretty girls more, but i did grow to like the characters taylor and baldwin.
14 ended on a cliffhanger, and the lead up to it was a little unsatisfying, but unfortunately i’m done with this series.
14 ended on a cliffhanger, and the lead up to it was a little unsatisfying, but unfortunately i’m done with this series.
April 7, 2010
Part of the fun of reading "14" is the novel's setting. Set in and around Nashville, it's fascinating to see various settings, place and restaurants show up in the fictional world of homicide detective Taylor Jackson.
For the second installment in the Taylor Jackson series, J.T. Ellison pits Jackson against the Snow White serial killer. The killer held Nashville in a grip of terror years before and then disappeared. Now the killer is back and up to his or her old tricks, selecting victims who look like Snow White and leaving them behind with deep red lipstick and some kind of strange residue on their temples. Taylor faces a race against the clock to find the killer when a young girl who fits the killer's target profile is taken from a bar. Taylor also faces the ticking clock of her upcoming wedding, hoping to solve the crime before she leaves on a few weeks of honeymoon bliss.
The ticking clock both helps and hinders "14" at several points. In many ways, the concept of a race against time is similar to that used on the TV series, "24" and the strengths and weaknesses of that are apparent here. Certain things happen in the course of the story that strain the credibility of just how long it takes to move from one point to another geographically.
The story is an intriguing one and had it been left merely as a serial killer/detective thriller it might have warranted a higher rating from me. However, the story brings in some personal aspects of Taylor's life to the story that, at first, seem a bit of a distraction from the driving force of the narrative. But it doesn't take long to figure out that Ellison isn't bringing these in for no reason and to figure out some of the novel's turning points before Taylor does. I don't mind seeing and hearing about the personal lives of our heroes in these kinds of stories (half the reason I read each new Elizabeth George installment is to catch up with her cast of characters), but I do wish these segments had been a bit more authentic and didn't feel as forced as they do.
Through most of the book, Ellison shows a flare for telling a good mystery story and I'm intrigues enough by "14" to give some of her other offerings a try.
For the second installment in the Taylor Jackson series, J.T. Ellison pits Jackson against the Snow White serial killer. The killer held Nashville in a grip of terror years before and then disappeared. Now the killer is back and up to his or her old tricks, selecting victims who look like Snow White and leaving them behind with deep red lipstick and some kind of strange residue on their temples. Taylor faces a race against the clock to find the killer when a young girl who fits the killer's target profile is taken from a bar. Taylor also faces the ticking clock of her upcoming wedding, hoping to solve the crime before she leaves on a few weeks of honeymoon bliss.
The ticking clock both helps and hinders "14" at several points. In many ways, the concept of a race against time is similar to that used on the TV series, "24" and the strengths and weaknesses of that are apparent here. Certain things happen in the course of the story that strain the credibility of just how long it takes to move from one point to another geographically.
The story is an intriguing one and had it been left merely as a serial killer/detective thriller it might have warranted a higher rating from me. However, the story brings in some personal aspects of Taylor's life to the story that, at first, seem a bit of a distraction from the driving force of the narrative. But it doesn't take long to figure out that Ellison isn't bringing these in for no reason and to figure out some of the novel's turning points before Taylor does. I don't mind seeing and hearing about the personal lives of our heroes in these kinds of stories (half the reason I read each new Elizabeth George installment is to catch up with her cast of characters), but I do wish these segments had been a bit more authentic and didn't feel as forced as they do.
Through most of the book, Ellison shows a flare for telling a good mystery story and I'm intrigues enough by "14" to give some of her other offerings a try.
January 3, 2017
REVIEW OF AUDIOBOOK; JANUARY 1, 2017
Narrator: Joyce Bean
This started off fine but degraded over time and 3 stars is all I give. The second half was a convoluted mess involving little bits of Taylor's past, her father and some strange characters who make up the villains.
I would have liked this more if Taylor wasn't obsessing over her wedding day and how she couldn't possibly go on her honeymoon when there's this crazy killer at work. And poor Baldwin just puts up with up in suffering silence. I'm all for a couple who are 100% supportive of each other's job dedication, but come on...I wanted to smack Taylor!
Despite this being a serial killer thriller, there isn't much gore and though the victims were raped, all this is mentioned after the event - which I prefer as on-page violence and gore squick me out. I'm not sure, as yet, if I will continue this series as I don't care for Joyce Bean's narrating but if there's less attention on Taylor's personal life and her issues and the storylines remain squarely on the murder investigations, I won't mind trying a couple more books.
Narrator: Joyce Bean
This started off fine but degraded over time and 3 stars is all I give. The second half was a convoluted mess involving little bits of Taylor's past, her father and some strange characters who make up the villains.
I would have liked this more if Taylor wasn't obsessing over her wedding day and how she couldn't possibly go on her honeymoon when there's this crazy killer at work. And poor Baldwin just puts up with up in suffering silence. I'm all for a couple who are 100% supportive of each other's job dedication, but come on...I wanted to smack Taylor!
Despite this being a serial killer thriller, there isn't much gore and though the victims were raped, all this is mentioned after the event - which I prefer as on-page violence and gore squick me out. I'm not sure, as yet, if I will continue this series as I don't care for Joyce Bean's narrating but if there's less attention on Taylor's personal life and her issues and the storylines remain squarely on the murder investigations, I won't mind trying a couple more books.
February 8, 2015
Oh no. An over describer, more concerned with name dropping and props than plot. This would be the kind of person that posts pictures of their food on instagram :( Reading this is a bit like those annoying M&S adverts - It's not just a jacket, its a cosy shearling jacket, it's not just a jumper, its the thick creamy cable knit, ditto the favorite battered UGG boots. No mere coffee for this chica - Lord forbid, nooo 'grabbing a Starbucks, no-sugar vanilla latte'. Meh. Don't even get me started on the almost full page description of individual breakfast dishes, party of three.
Parts of this started to look promising then failed to live up to the promise. A little less descriptive page filling and a little more plot development this would have been passable. I don't know if this is one of those collaborative efforts but it feels like it was written by two different people.
The end is a blatant lead into the next book, which I can't see me bothering with.
Parts of this started to look promising then failed to live up to the promise. A little less descriptive page filling and a little more plot development this would have been passable. I don't know if this is one of those collaborative efforts but it feels like it was written by two different people.
The end is a blatant lead into the next book, which I can't see me bothering with.
January 14, 2017
***Spoiler Alert***
Holy Moly!! Didn't expect the ending! I loved the New York setting in the Wintertime during the month of December. I could vividly picture Times Square and New York decked out with Christmas lights.......
I applaud Taylor of standing up to Win the way she did. I loved the way the story ended. It makes me look forward to the next book. For those that don't like too much romance this is a good book because we aren't bombarded with cheesy romance sessions between Taylor & Baldwin. I like them as a couple I only hope they are still together in the next story.
Holy Moly!! Didn't expect the ending! I loved the New York setting in the Wintertime during the month of December. I could vividly picture Times Square and New York decked out with Christmas lights.......
I applaud Taylor of standing up to Win the way she did. I loved the way the story ended. It makes me look forward to the next book. For those that don't like too much romance this is a good book because we aren't bombarded with cheesy romance sessions between Taylor & Baldwin. I like them as a couple I only hope they are still together in the next story.
December 6, 2011
It was fun reading the Nashville name-dropping, but I didn't care for it beyond that. Everything here as been done before, and in a way that's less awkward.
March 29, 2026
A Dark Fairytale with a Killer Edge
14 delivers a chilling, atmospheric thriller that blends classic fairytale imagery with a gritty, modern investigation—and it works so well. From the start, there’s an eerie tone that sets this apart from a typical crime procedural, giving the story a haunting, almost storybook-gone-wrong feel.
The concept of a copycat killer recreating something so specific and symbolic adds a layer of tension that keeps the stakes feeling personal and unsettling. Each reveal pulls you deeper into the mystery, and the pacing keeps things moving without losing that creeping sense of dread.
Taylor Jackson continues to be a strong, compelling lead—determined, sharp, and emotionally grounded. What I especially appreciated here was how personal the case becomes for her, raising the emotional stakes alongside the investigation. It adds weight to every decision and keeps you fully invested.
The revised edition feels tight and polished, making the twists land even more effectively. While some moments lean into familiar thriller territory, the unique premise and dark tone keep it feeling fresh.
If you love crime thrillers with a psychological edge, layered tension, and a slightly sinister twist on familiar themes, this one is definitely worth the read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for the copy.
14 delivers a chilling, atmospheric thriller that blends classic fairytale imagery with a gritty, modern investigation—and it works so well. From the start, there’s an eerie tone that sets this apart from a typical crime procedural, giving the story a haunting, almost storybook-gone-wrong feel.
The concept of a copycat killer recreating something so specific and symbolic adds a layer of tension that keeps the stakes feeling personal and unsettling. Each reveal pulls you deeper into the mystery, and the pacing keeps things moving without losing that creeping sense of dread.
Taylor Jackson continues to be a strong, compelling lead—determined, sharp, and emotionally grounded. What I especially appreciated here was how personal the case becomes for her, raising the emotional stakes alongside the investigation. It adds weight to every decision and keeps you fully invested.
The revised edition feels tight and polished, making the twists land even more effectively. While some moments lean into familiar thriller territory, the unique premise and dark tone keep it feeling fresh.
If you love crime thrillers with a psychological edge, layered tension, and a slightly sinister twist on familiar themes, this one is definitely worth the read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for the copy.
March 14, 2026
J.T. Ellison's police procedurals featuring Taylor Jackson have proved to be winners. While, at times depressing, they are filled with dramatic events.
I have trouble putting them down, from the first page to the last. This novel's master criminal is the Snow White killer, who retired 20 years earlier. He is now back, or is the Nashville homicide squad looking for a copycat?
LT Taylor Jackson and her fiancee John Baldwin rush to solve the case before their wedding day. Unfortunately, it is not just the criminal element who is conspiring against them
A past lover of Baldwin's would love nothing better than take Taylor's place in John's life.
Wild scenes and complex characters make this a wonderful read.
I have trouble putting them down, from the first page to the last. This novel's master criminal is the Snow White killer, who retired 20 years earlier. He is now back, or is the Nashville homicide squad looking for a copycat?
LT Taylor Jackson and her fiancee John Baldwin rush to solve the case before their wedding day. Unfortunately, it is not just the criminal element who is conspiring against them
A past lover of Baldwin's would love nothing better than take Taylor's place in John's life.
Wild scenes and complex characters make this a wonderful read.
April 20, 2026
Book 2 in the Taylor Jackson series and this one is even better than the first. FBI and Police work together in a serial killer case where the victims are made up to look like Snow White. Underneath the case we have complex turns and twists that make you wonder who the culprit is and how the characters entwine A romance between main characters, not overly done, but enough we can feel and sense their ability to read each others minds and have scenes of trust and calm in a crazy world of murder and illegal activities.
This book has just about everything you could want in a suspense novel and JT Ellison is getting better and better with each story.
Can’t wait for the next one!
This book has just about everything you could want in a suspense novel and JT Ellison is getting better and better with each story.
Can’t wait for the next one!
June 23, 2026
‘14’ is another great Lieutenant Taylor Jackson thriller by J.T. Ellison! Police procedural trillers are so much fun to read. This one continued the twists and turns.
NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer, thank you for this revised edition.
NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer, thank you for this revised edition.
November 27, 2018
Excellent! I am loving Taylor and Baldwin!
The adventure continues! These two are fun! This is the second in the series so I am on to the next! Great work!
The adventure continues! These two are fun! This is the second in the series so I am on to the next! Great work!
August 13, 2019
This is the second book in the Taylor Jackson series.Taylor Jackson is a homicide detective in Nashville. In this book - a serial killer from 20 years ago is killing again. Or is it a copycat?
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