A DEADLY HOOK

by Karen A. Phillips

290 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 4, 2026

About the author

Karen A. Phillips writes the Rocky Nelson Boxing Mystery series—Mystery with a Punch! Her stories are humorous and action-packed with engaging characters. And yes, she does take boxing lessons. Visit her at KarenAPhillips.com.

Reviews

[K.A. Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

A DEADLY HOOK is the third book in the Rocky Nelson Boxing Mysteries by Karen Phillips. This newest release combines a plucky protagonist (I love that Raquel aka Rocky is a woman of a “certain age” and lives her life without limitations), a sister that needs her help, an outdoor adventure… and a hunt for the elusive Bigfoot! Her strong descriptive skills bring the reader wholly into the Sierra Nevada Mountains, surrounded by nature—often with humor—as well as giving you a sense of boxing and stepping into the ring. Karen Phillips astutely relates Rocky’s amateur sleuthing investigation to her boxing techniques, hooking the reader with the book’s theme until the final knockout punch is delivered with its edge-of-your-seat conclusion!

The story and the murder of a Bigfoot hunter are well-plotted, and Ms. Phillips provides an appropriately creepy atmospheric backdrop as Rocky and her group tromp through the wilderness looking for the cryptid and for the murderer. No matter what each scene entailed, they were fast-paced and held my attention throughout the entire read. If you enjoy your mysteries with memorable characters, unique settings, and a plot that keeps you glued to the pages, you’ll love A Deadly Hook!

I was provided with an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[George Hahn · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Deadly Hook was a thoroughly enjoyable read and an easy five‑star rating for me. As the third book in this cozy mystery series, it hits its stride with a confident voice, a well‑paced plot, and characters that feel familiar in the best way.
I appreciated how the mystery unfolded naturally—there were plenty of suspects and surprises, but nothing felt forced or unfair. The author does a great job of weaving the puzzle together while still leaving room to enjoy the setting and the everyday moments that make a cozy mystery so comforting.
The characters are engaging, distinct, and continue to develop in ways that make the series feel rewarding to follow. Even as a third installment, the story feels fresh, and it deepens the connections established in earlier books without becoming bogged down by backstory.
Overall, A Deadly Hook delivers exactly what a fan of a cozy mysteries is looking for: an intriguing plot, likable characters, and a satisfying sense of resolution. Fans of the genre—and especially readers already following this series—will find this to be a satisfying installment. Rocky says she's retiring from mystery solving, but we can hope she changes her mind.

[George Cramer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I admit I know Karen Phillips and am a fan of her Rocky Nelson Boxing series. Each book in the series is entertaining, with plenty of action, surprises, danger, and a touch of romance. A DEADLY HOOK is strong on character development. Rocky continues to amaze me with the depth of her character. She faces real-life issues head-on and with grace. Her stubbornness is an asset that helps her solve the most complicated crimes. Expect plenty of action and surprises. Phillips's work always packs an emotional impact.

[Beverly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Of these two sisters, I didn't care for Bridget, because she seemed so needy and unable to stand on her own two feet. Whereas , Rocky , at times over estimated her own abilities. She acted like she thought she was immortal at times much to her detriment. This was a real page turner with danger lurking around every corner. I was stunned whodunit! A gripping read. I voluntarily read a free copy of this book provided by book sirens and am giving an honest review.

[Michelle Corbier · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bigfoot mystery

Fast, easy read. If you like mysteries and science fiction, you'll appreciate the authors references to movies and characters. Relatable characters. Are you a believer?