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The Black Circle: A gripping psychological thriller with murder and secrets
100 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 14, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
February 23, 2026
3 stars for me.
Dr. Sarah Black have hard case to crack.Victims that are murdered in controlled and calm way soon lead her to The Order of the Circle.Facing with the choice to let the truth be,or risk her career and life,Sarah soon uncover that even people she trusts are involved.
What will happen if she speak about the order outloud?
It was quick prequel,it explain the beginning of Sarah involvement with the Order.Enjoyable read.
Thank you booksprout and author for arc,my review is honest and my own.
Dr. Sarah Black have hard case to crack.Victims that are murdered in controlled and calm way soon lead her to The Order of the Circle.Facing with the choice to let the truth be,or risk her career and life,Sarah soon uncover that even people she trusts are involved.
What will happen if she speak about the order outloud?
It was quick prequel,it explain the beginning of Sarah involvement with the Order.Enjoyable read.
Thank you booksprout and author for arc,my review is honest and my own.
February 22, 2026
I first picked up the Black Gala based on the blurb and being a fan of Clue (the movie) it tugged on some fond memories. Opening it up i came to find that there was a prequel though not yet released. Fortunately there was a contact for the author who graciously sent an advanced copy only a week or so before the release. I devoured it but i am not so good at reviews and have put this off much to long already.
I highly recommend reading the Black Circle before the Black Gala to get a brief intro into the world of Dr Sara Black. She is a forensic psychologist who works with law enforcement in a similar way to Dr Temperance Brennan in Bones.
Sara Black notices similarities in some current crimes to some past unsolved crimes. She tells police the man they suspect for the current does not fit her profile. The explanation is understandable and clear even for me to follow yet the police do not want to accept it. Sarah finds some stories of a secret society who the stories claim silence victims in a particular way to send a message to others. Others who will recognize the message is for them when they see it.
This prequel piqued my interest even more. I want to know more about the Circle and more about Sara, herself.
-- What is the Circle all about? What are their goals? I dont want to give more away - but it left me with an underlying “itch” about the Circle and whether or not there is any past connection to Sara somehow even though she does not seem to know who or what they are.
I am jumping right in to The Black Gala to scratch that “itch”.
[ I received an advanced copy for an honest review. ]
February 26, 2026
Dr Sarah Black is a forensic psychologist known for her direct and unflinching communication style. In a courtroom, she focuses purely on facts and their combined meaning, deliberately avoiding any suggestive language.
Her current focus is on a series of two recent murders, both sharing a unique signature: the victim's mouth is sealed shut with black thread and a red wax seal bearing a distinctive imprint. Dr Black has identified a link between these latest crimes and a pattern of similar, older murders that occurred sporadically before a ten-year hiatus, followed by a full century of silence. This silence has now been broken.
Crucially, Dr Black must soon provide testimony in the prosecution of a suspect for these murders. She is convinced, however, that this individual does not match the killer's profile, requiring her to navigate her testimony with extreme caution.
This compelling prequel immediately captivates the reader, generating a strong desire to discover the fate and future trajectory of Dr Black. It is an excellent read that necessitates a continuation, making the rest of the series the only logical next step.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Booksprout, and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Her current focus is on a series of two recent murders, both sharing a unique signature: the victim's mouth is sealed shut with black thread and a red wax seal bearing a distinctive imprint. Dr Black has identified a link between these latest crimes and a pattern of similar, older murders that occurred sporadically before a ten-year hiatus, followed by a full century of silence. This silence has now been broken.
Crucially, Dr Black must soon provide testimony in the prosecution of a suspect for these murders. She is convinced, however, that this individual does not match the killer's profile, requiring her to navigate her testimony with extreme caution.
This compelling prequel immediately captivates the reader, generating a strong desire to discover the fate and future trajectory of Dr Black. It is an excellent read that necessitates a continuation, making the rest of the series the only logical next step.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Booksprout, and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
April 18, 2026
Synopsis:
Dr. Sarah Black is called to consult on a crime scene that feels… off. It’s too organized, too clean, too perfectly staged—unlike anything she has seen before. But the most unsettling part isn’t just the murder itself; it’s how the entire scene is presented like a performance, as if it’s sending a message to someone to stay quiet.
When a second victim appears, Sarah starts digging into old case files and comes across one name that refuses to leave her mind: The Order of the Circle. But the moment she mentions it in her testimony, everything begins to fall apart. Her world turns upside down, and danger closes in. Will she survive what the Circle has planned for her, or will she become their next victim?
Review:
"The Black Circle" by Parker Vale is a prequel to a gripping psychological thriller series, filled with murders and secrets that run deeper than Sarah can even imagine.
Sarah is an admirable protagonist—strong, observant, and determined to get justice for the victims. I really appreciated how she stands by her findings and refuses to stay silent, even when it puts her own life at risk.
The secret society, The Order of the Circle, feels almost like a living, breathing entity. The way they plan their crimes and manipulate everything keeps the tension high throughout. The setting itself feels unsettling, like danger is always lurking just out of sight.
Overall, this prequel sets up a fast-paced, intriguing series and definitely made me curious to read what comes next.
Dr. Sarah Black is called to consult on a crime scene that feels… off. It’s too organized, too clean, too perfectly staged—unlike anything she has seen before. But the most unsettling part isn’t just the murder itself; it’s how the entire scene is presented like a performance, as if it’s sending a message to someone to stay quiet.
When a second victim appears, Sarah starts digging into old case files and comes across one name that refuses to leave her mind: The Order of the Circle. But the moment she mentions it in her testimony, everything begins to fall apart. Her world turns upside down, and danger closes in. Will she survive what the Circle has planned for her, or will she become their next victim?
Review:
"The Black Circle" by Parker Vale is a prequel to a gripping psychological thriller series, filled with murders and secrets that run deeper than Sarah can even imagine.
Sarah is an admirable protagonist—strong, observant, and determined to get justice for the victims. I really appreciated how she stands by her findings and refuses to stay silent, even when it puts her own life at risk.
The secret society, The Order of the Circle, feels almost like a living, breathing entity. The way they plan their crimes and manipulate everything keeps the tension high throughout. The setting itself feels unsettling, like danger is always lurking just out of sight.
Overall, this prequel sets up a fast-paced, intriguing series and definitely made me curious to read what comes next.
February 15, 2026
Things never spoken
Dr. Sarah Black is a forensic psychologist who does not mix or mince words. She says what she means and leaves it there. In court, that is what she needs to do, not to intentionally push thoughts of one thing or another, only facts and what they mean together.
After following the latest 2 murders with the same sealing of the mouth shut with black thread, after death, and a red wax with a peculiar seal. Sarah has put together several events, starting with the murders that occurred before, which were spaced apart, then skipped 10 years, to start again. However, it stopped 100 years ago... until now.
She must testify for this person who is being prosecuted for the murders that she does not fit for him. She just has to do it delicately.
This story is short, but it is a beginning that keeps one's interest and makes one want more of what happens to Dr. Sarah Black.
Thank you, Parker Vale, for a good beginning.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and this is my honest review.
Dr. Sarah Black is a forensic psychologist who does not mix or mince words. She says what she means and leaves it there. In court, that is what she needs to do, not to intentionally push thoughts of one thing or another, only facts and what they mean together.
After following the latest 2 murders with the same sealing of the mouth shut with black thread, after death, and a red wax with a peculiar seal. Sarah has put together several events, starting with the murders that occurred before, which were spaced apart, then skipped 10 years, to start again. However, it stopped 100 years ago... until now.
She must testify for this person who is being prosecuted for the murders that she does not fit for him. She just has to do it delicately.
This story is short, but it is a beginning that keeps one's interest and makes one want more of what happens to Dr. Sarah Black.
Thank you, Parker Vale, for a good beginning.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and this is my honest review.
March 16, 2026
Quick but intense introduction to the Sarah Black thriller series. Even as a short prequel, it delivers a strong sense of suspense and sets the tone for the darker psychological themes found in the series.
The writing is sharp and fast-paced, making it easy to read in one sitting. The author builds tension early on and maintains a mysterious atmosphere throughout the story. It gives readers just enough insight into the main character and the world she operates in to spark curiosity without slowing the pace.
Sarah Black comes across as a strong and intriguing character, and this installment does a great job of establishing the tone for future books in the series. The psychological elements and suspenseful moments make it an engaging read for fans of the genre.
Overall, The Black Circle is a solid and gripping start to the Sarah Black psychological thriller series. It’s a quick read that leaves you interested in continuing the series to see what comes next.
The writing is sharp and fast-paced, making it easy to read in one sitting. The author builds tension early on and maintains a mysterious atmosphere throughout the story. It gives readers just enough insight into the main character and the world she operates in to spark curiosity without slowing the pace.
Sarah Black comes across as a strong and intriguing character, and this installment does a great job of establishing the tone for future books in the series. The psychological elements and suspenseful moments make it an engaging read for fans of the genre.
Overall, The Black Circle is a solid and gripping start to the Sarah Black psychological thriller series. It’s a quick read that leaves you interested in continuing the series to see what comes next.
February 14, 2026
4.5 stars
adventurous emotional mysterious fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Received this ARC from the author.
This is the prequel to the Sarah Black series, which I have read three.
This provides background into the character of Sarah and reactions to her various adventures.
I was given a better understanding of her character and choices that she made based on events that have taken place in her live previously. It was a great introduction into the series, and I am glad to have been given the opportunity to read it.
It is well written and a nice fast read.
adventurous emotional mysterious fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Received this ARC from the author.
This is the prequel to the Sarah Black series, which I have read three.
This provides background into the character of Sarah and reactions to her various adventures.
I was given a better understanding of her character and choices that she made based on events that have taken place in her live previously. It was a great introduction into the series, and I am glad to have been given the opportunity to read it.
It is well written and a nice fast read.
March 12, 2026
Sarah Black is a forensic psychologist who helps the police with murders. When two victims are found in the same manner she starts to research any historical cases. The man she looks up to warns her to stay in the present and not look into the past. But then things start happening to her that are beyond her control, and she realizes she is being targeted.
This book as an open ending since this is a prequel. Had me hooked and now I want to read the rest in the series. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book as an open ending since this is a prequel. Had me hooked and now I want to read the rest in the series. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 5, 2026
The Black Circle: Prequel (Sarah Black Psychological Thriller), my second read from author Parker Vale, a 99-page conspiracy thriller, that grabbed me and kept me reading until I finished it. Somehow I read The Black Gala (Sarah Black Psychological Thriller Book 1) before this prequel and loved it. Now The Black Game (Sarah Black Psychological Thriller Book 2) is high on my TBR list. “I received a complementary Kindle copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review." The gifting of this book did not affect my opinion of it. (RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018).
April 19, 2026
Dr Sarah Black and Detective Mark Alvarez need to work a case that seems to become more strange as they work together. The scenes and evidence don't match and she doesn't seem to receive comforting and supporting advice from her mentor.
As much as I enjoy the writing from this author, I hate being left without a solution and need to continue purchasing a full series for answers.
Added: 19 April 2026
Much to my delight, a few weeks later I saw the whole series advertised in one and immediately purchased. Now to get the time to read the remaining books.
As much as I enjoy the writing from this author, I hate being left without a solution and need to continue purchasing a full series for answers.
Added: 19 April 2026
Much to my delight, a few weeks later I saw the whole series advertised in one and immediately purchased. Now to get the time to read the remaining books.
February 21, 2026
What a complex and captivating storyline. Dr. Sarah Black is an amazing character who's faced with a moral dilemma and her actions will have reproductions she could have never dreamed of. Full of descriptions and details, it was as if we were there in the moment. Enjoyed the analytical process Sarah used, and how readers are taken along step by step. Looking forward to the rest of this series!.
I was gifted a copy of this book and voluntarily provided this review. Happy Reading Y'all 📚
I was gifted a copy of this book and voluntarily provided this review. Happy Reading Y'all 📚
February 24, 2026
This rates as 3.5/5 stars for me. If you’ve read any of the Sarah Black series then this will be a way to understand her better. If you’ve not read the series this is the one to start with as it introduces the main character and gives you insight as to how she thinks and reacts. It’s a quick read but a very good intro.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 27, 2026
Dr. Sarah Black feels that the evidence against a bartender is too perfect.
Sarah knows what the crime scenes reveal a century-old pattern. The Order of the Circle is back.
The medical examiner dies of suicide or something else? same place that her dad died seems a little to planned. Someone powerful is protecting her.
She just doesn't know why. Or for how long.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Sarah knows what the crime scenes reveal a century-old pattern. The Order of the Circle is back.
The medical examiner dies of suicide or something else? same place that her dad died seems a little to planned. Someone powerful is protecting her.
She just doesn't know why. Or for how long.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 9, 2026
The blurb intrigues me - that is often how I pick what to read. This one sounded fun - secret society, hidden to the ages. Sarah is smart and likeable. Unfortunately it feels unfinished - like I read part one and now I need the guts and the conclusion. I did like what I read, but it was all seen through Sarah’s eyes and we never got a real movement into conflict resolution. Is this book one in the start of more or was it meant to build and make us think?
May 21, 2026
The Black Circle: Prequel is a gripping, fast‑paced novella filled with tension, sharp twists, and a conspiracy that keeps tightening around Dr. Sarah Black. She’s a likeable, capable protagonist whose instincts put her directly in the crosshairs of a century‑old secret.
The story is suspenseful, atmospheric, and genuinely unpredictable—a true page‑turner. A fantastic entry point into the Sarah Black series and a must‑read for fans of intelligent thrillers and forensic‑leaning mysteries.
The story is suspenseful, atmospheric, and genuinely unpredictable—a true page‑turner. A fantastic entry point into the Sarah Black series and a must‑read for fans of intelligent thrillers and forensic‑leaning mysteries.
February 14, 2026
Dr.Black is intelligent enough to know when the wool is being pulled over her eyes. This book is fast-paced and short, but there's more discoveries being made that point to the order of the circle, but if you dare mentioned it it could cost you your life and will be blamed on suicide. I can't wait to see what Dr. Black does next.
February 20, 2026
This was a really good introduction story to get into the series.
It’s helpful to get to know (a little) of the basis of The Order of the Circle, and get an introduction to the characters.
Thrilling and enticing, overall a good story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
It’s helpful to get to know (a little) of the basis of The Order of the Circle, and get an introduction to the characters.
Thrilling and enticing, overall a good story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 23, 2026
A good introduction to the start of this series. Who or what is the Order of the Circle? Sarah mentions them and finds herself in the eye of the storm , receiving warnings, in danger, her work systematically being taken apart, but she's surviving, for now. I received an ARC from Booksprout and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 25, 2026
I was excited for this one. This is a prequel to the Dr. Sarah Black Psychological thriller series to the place where it all started. The story is fast paced and short. It draws you in from the beginning and keeps you engaged through the end. If brings the series full circle. If you haven’t read any of the books, this would be a great starting place.
April 8, 2026
This is a short story which is a prequal to a series. As such it is not a complete story in itself and feels like it would be better read after having already started the series. There was mystery and intrigue to keep you interested although maybe a bit too much repeating of details, especially because it it so short in the first place, but it has drawn me in enough to want to start the series.
April 15, 2026
I received this as an ARC. The Black Circle is a prequel to The Black Gala. This was a great read. It tells how Sarah Black gets her start in the mystery surrounding The Order of the Circle. Lots of lies. Who is friend and who is foe? I really enjoyed the first 3 books in the series and this was a perfect addition.
February 20, 2026
The Black Circle: Prequel (Sarah Black Psychological Thriller) By: Parker Vale. Dr. Sarah Black is in one heck of predicament fight for her believe. However, The Order of the Circle will eliminate anyone that get in their way. This book is extremely well written. I loved it
March 12, 2026
Really good prequel
This is a really good prequel! I got the ARC for the fourth book. But I felt I wouldn’t do it justice unless I read all the books so onto the first book I go. I’m definitely loving what I’m reading so far.
This is a really good prequel! I got the ARC for the fourth book. But I felt I wouldn’t do it justice unless I read all the books so onto the first book I go. I’m definitely loving what I’m reading so far.
March 14, 2026
I read this story as an ARC. This is my review. Sarah is called to consult on the murder of a young and the next that have very vivid similarities. But there is someone wanting her remarks in court to be erased. Her ethics are at risk. A fast paced, well written story.
March 17, 2026
🕯️Arc Review🧵
Hidden Society? Uncredible Evidence? Dr. Sarah Black is a forensic psychologist who's on the case of multiple deaths that ends up involving the FBI. Will she find out who's behind it? Will she figure out what happened to her father? I highly recommend!!! Received Via BookSirens.
Hidden Society? Uncredible Evidence? Dr. Sarah Black is a forensic psychologist who's on the case of multiple deaths that ends up involving the FBI. Will she find out who's behind it? Will she figure out what happened to her father? I highly recommend!!! Received Via BookSirens.
March 29, 2026
A prequel to a series. I read the series first which makes this book all the more interesting, since these events are mentioned. I did enjoy the series and the ending; well, read the series.
I received an advance reader copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance reader copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 7, 2026
Too short for my taste. It gives some clarity to the later books. Still a good read.
March 25, 2026
A great little introduction to the Black Circle series.
March 30, 2026
A very interesting cliffhanger. It kept me reading all night.
Looking forward to reading the next sequel.
Looking forward to reading the next sequel.
September 3, 2026
I liked Sarah and this book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews