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Prairie Nightingale #3
Believer
Not yet published
Expected 8 Sep 26A teenager convinced there’s more to a cousin’s estrangement than family friction leads to the exposure of a cult operating in plain sight.
Prairie Nightingale, PI, has it great kids, a private detective agency run by brilliant women, and maybe a handsome FBI situationship. When her daughter’s best friend asks her to look into a bitter family estrangement, Prairie is reluctant to take on a case that requires even more life/work balance than she’s already attempting—especially with her parents visiting from out of town. But when everyone she talks to takes her deeper into a labyrinth of lies, control, and secrets, she and her team begin to untangle the history of a couple with a knack for gathering fervent followers … and collecting criminal charges.
The existence of a cult is difficult to prove, and this one’s members are less than forthcoming, requiring Prairie and her fellow agents to deploy all of their available tricks and talents. Joyce is uncovering shady history and false identities, Emma’s partnered with ex-members to appeal to her podcast audience, and Prairie and Foster find themselves following the money and working undercover. Even Prairie’s parents chip as residents of an Oregon commune, they know the ins and outs of high-control groups. And, to Prairie’s horror, her daughters sneak in a spy mission of their own.
But a cult is most dangerous when it’s threatened, and Prairie’s desire to rescue believers makes her a target—and risks exposing cult members on the run. She’ll need more faith in her abilities than she’s ever had to find the truth.
2026 by Ruthie Knox and Annie Mare. ℗ 2026 Brilliance Publishing, Inc., all rights reserved.
Prairie Nightingale, PI, has it great kids, a private detective agency run by brilliant women, and maybe a handsome FBI situationship. When her daughter’s best friend asks her to look into a bitter family estrangement, Prairie is reluctant to take on a case that requires even more life/work balance than she’s already attempting—especially with her parents visiting from out of town. But when everyone she talks to takes her deeper into a labyrinth of lies, control, and secrets, she and her team begin to untangle the history of a couple with a knack for gathering fervent followers … and collecting criminal charges.
The existence of a cult is difficult to prove, and this one’s members are less than forthcoming, requiring Prairie and her fellow agents to deploy all of their available tricks and talents. Joyce is uncovering shady history and false identities, Emma’s partnered with ex-members to appeal to her podcast audience, and Prairie and Foster find themselves following the money and working undercover. Even Prairie’s parents chip as residents of an Oregon commune, they know the ins and outs of high-control groups. And, to Prairie’s horror, her daughters sneak in a spy mission of their own.
But a cult is most dangerous when it’s threatened, and Prairie’s desire to rescue believers makes her a target—and risks exposing cult members on the run. She’ll need more faith in her abilities than she’s ever had to find the truth.
2026 by Ruthie Knox and Annie Mare. ℗ 2026 Brilliance Publishing, Inc., all rights reserved.
Audible Audio
Expected publication September 8, 2026
About the author
Ruthie Knox
46 books1,427 followersRuthie Knox is the critically acclaimed, New York Times bestselling author of more than a dozen novels. She writes both mystery and romance, usually with co-author Annie Mare. You can find Ruthie's books under the pen names Ruthie Knox (mystery and het romance), Mae Marvel (queer romance), and Robin York (New Adult romance). Ruthie and Annie are married and live with two teenagers, two dogs, multiple fish, two glorious cats, four hermit crabs, and a bazillion plants in a very old house with a garden.
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September 1, 2026This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
Review copy was received from Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
4.5 hearts
The firm has had several big successful cases and they don't want to do the chase cheating spouses type work. But the things that do interest them are not always profitable and they do need to make some money. Case in point, Prairie's daughter Anabel's friend Kai comes to try to hire her. Kai's cousin Brittany started working at a coffee shop and then went to a new church, and then disappeared. Kai wants to hire them. They can pay $50 a week since they are starting a job at Starbucks.
Prairie goes to the coffee shop with her visiting parents and whoa, is it creepy. The team doesn't think it's worthwhile but her father says something and they decide to take a look. Off it goes then. Kai's parents and Brittany's parents also want to get in on paying so that works out.
Then one of their cold cases they do also takes off about another missing girl and those parents are thrilled to hire them since the police didn't even look at it. The coffee shops lead to churches and it just gets weirder. Her daughter decides to help by taking a music lesson from the church's music director and scare Prairie to death. It turns out to be great information they add to the connected cases.
One of the church men is sitting outside the school trying to recruit teens. After all cults love teen girls. Prairie and the other moms at school are fighting that. One of the cult guys follows Prairie and it has gotten unsafe.
Foster has been gone traveling a bit and finally arrives home. They want to spend time together but the case keeps getting in the way. They do finally do and Foster plays roles undercover with her which are scary and funny. They make some progress with their relationship.
There are other family developments with the girls. After seeing the teen runaways and rebellions in her cases, Prairie talks to Anabel about what she wants to do which is great. Greg is making some changes. Maelynn is her hilarious honest self.
I always think somehow I will find this series silly but I never do. I love the character diversity and how unique they are as individuals. These are also people who care about others and go through ordinary human troubles and decisions. The cases are bigger than expected but luckily they have widespread contacts, and good ones like Foster. My understanding is there are more books written and I'm here for them.
Narration:
The narrator is new to me, although she does also narrate the sapphic romances these authors have written (I read the ebooks for those.) I was very comfortable with her voices and the differences for the age and gender felt appropriate. I listened at my usual 1.5x speed for this one.
Review copy was received from Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
The Prairie Nightingale series is a collaboration between two of my favorite authors. It's a new mystery series about a professional homemaker turning into a private investigator. I absolutely LOVE it. Prairie is a divorced mother of two girls. She co-parents with her ex Greg. He is successful and not a bad guy, just one who really didn't pay attention to Prairie, other than as his personal attendant. His mother Joyce, lives with Prairie and helps with the girls. I would read these in order for the character and romance developments.
4.5 hearts
The firm has had several big successful cases and they don't want to do the chase cheating spouses type work. But the things that do interest them are not always profitable and they do need to make some money. Case in point, Prairie's daughter Anabel's friend Kai comes to try to hire her. Kai's cousin Brittany started working at a coffee shop and then went to a new church, and then disappeared. Kai wants to hire them. They can pay $50 a week since they are starting a job at Starbucks.
Prairie goes to the coffee shop with her visiting parents and whoa, is it creepy. The team doesn't think it's worthwhile but her father says something and they decide to take a look. Off it goes then. Kai's parents and Brittany's parents also want to get in on paying so that works out.
Then one of their cold cases they do also takes off about another missing girl and those parents are thrilled to hire them since the police didn't even look at it. The coffee shops lead to churches and it just gets weirder. Her daughter decides to help by taking a music lesson from the church's music director and scare Prairie to death. It turns out to be great information they add to the connected cases.
One of the church men is sitting outside the school trying to recruit teens. After all cults love teen girls. Prairie and the other moms at school are fighting that. One of the cult guys follows Prairie and it has gotten unsafe.
Foster has been gone traveling a bit and finally arrives home. They want to spend time together but the case keeps getting in the way. They do finally do and Foster plays roles undercover with her which are scary and funny. They make some progress with their relationship.
There are other family developments with the girls. After seeing the teen runaways and rebellions in her cases, Prairie talks to Anabel about what she wants to do which is great. Greg is making some changes. Maelynn is her hilarious honest self.
I always think somehow I will find this series silly but I never do. I love the character diversity and how unique they are as individuals. These are also people who care about others and go through ordinary human troubles and decisions. The cases are bigger than expected but luckily they have widespread contacts, and good ones like Foster. My understanding is there are more books written and I'm here for them.
Narration:
The narrator is new to me, although she does also narrate the sapphic romances these authors have written (I read the ebooks for those.) I was very comfortable with her voices and the differences for the age and gender felt appropriate. I listened at my usual 1.5x speed for this one.
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September 1, 2026This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
Review copy was received from Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
4.5 hearts
The firm has had several big successful cases and they don't want to do the chase cheating spouses type work. But the things that do interest them are not always profitable and they do need to make some money. Case in point, Prairie's daughter Anabel's friend Kai comes to try to hire her. Kai's cousin Brittany started working at a coffee shop and then went to a new church, and then disappeared. Kai wants to hire them. They can pay $50 a week since they are starting a job at Starbucks.
Prairie goes to the coffee shop with her visiting parents and whoa, is it creepy. The team doesn't think it's worthwhile but her father says something and they decide to take a look. Off it goes then. Kai's parents and Brittany's parents also want to get in on paying so that works out.
Then one of their cold cases they do also takes off about another missing girl and those parents are thrilled to hire them since the police didn't even look at it. The coffee shops lead to churches and it just gets weirder. Her daughter decides to help by taking a music lesson from the church's music director and scare Prairie to death. It turns out to be great information they add to the connected cases.
One of the church men is sitting outside the school trying to recruit teens. After all cults love teen girls. Prairie and the other moms at school are fighting that. One of the cult guys follows Prairie and it has gotten unsafe.
Foster has been gone traveling a bit and finally arrives home. They want to spend time together but the case keeps getting in the way. They do finally do and Foster plays roles undercover with her which are scary and funny. They make some progress with their relationship.
There are other family developments with the girls. After seeing the teen runaways and rebellions in her cases, Prairie talks to Anabel about what she wants to do which is great. Greg is making some changes. Maelynn is her hilarious honest self.
I always think somehow I will find this series silly but I never do. I love the character diversity and how unique they are as individuals. These are also people who care about others and go through ordinary human troubles and decisions. The cases are bigger than expected but luckily they have widespread contacts, and good ones like Foster. My understanding is there are more books written and I'm here for them.
Review copy was received from Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
The Prairie Nightingale series is a collaboration between two of my favorite authors. It's a new mystery series about a professional homemaker turning into a private investigator. I absolutely LOVE it. Prairie is a divorced mother of two girls. She co-parents with her ex Greg. He is successful and not a bad guy, just one who really didn't pay attention to Prairie, other than as his personal attendant. His mother Joyce, lives with Prairie and helps with the girls. I would read these in order for the character and romance developments.
4.5 hearts
The firm has had several big successful cases and they don't want to do the chase cheating spouses type work. But the things that do interest them are not always profitable and they do need to make some money. Case in point, Prairie's daughter Anabel's friend Kai comes to try to hire her. Kai's cousin Brittany started working at a coffee shop and then went to a new church, and then disappeared. Kai wants to hire them. They can pay $50 a week since they are starting a job at Starbucks.
Prairie goes to the coffee shop with her visiting parents and whoa, is it creepy. The team doesn't think it's worthwhile but her father says something and they decide to take a look. Off it goes then. Kai's parents and Brittany's parents also want to get in on paying so that works out.
Then one of their cold cases they do also takes off about another missing girl and those parents are thrilled to hire them since the police didn't even look at it. The coffee shops lead to churches and it just gets weirder. Her daughter decides to help by taking a music lesson from the church's music director and scare Prairie to death. It turns out to be great information they add to the connected cases.
One of the church men is sitting outside the school trying to recruit teens. After all cults love teen girls. Prairie and the other moms at school are fighting that. One of the cult guys follows Prairie and it has gotten unsafe.
Foster has been gone traveling a bit and finally arrives home. They want to spend time together but the case keeps getting in the way. They do finally do and Foster plays roles undercover with her which are scary and funny. They make some progress with their relationship.
There are other family developments with the girls. After seeing the teen runaways and rebellions in her cases, Prairie talks to Anabel about what she wants to do which is great. Greg is making some changes. Maelynn is her hilarious honest self.
I always think somehow I will find this series silly but I never do. I love the character diversity and how unique they are as individuals. These are also people who care about others and go through ordinary human troubles and decisions. The cases are bigger than expected but luckily they have widespread contacts, and good ones like Foster. My understanding is there are more books written and I'm here for them.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
5/5 stars: This is Knox & Mare's third entry in the Prairie Nightingale series which is a Cozy-ish Mystery set in Wisconsin. Featuring a single mom and private investigator as she finds herself and her crew working to untangle the history of a couple with a collection criminal charges and who might just be be operating a cult in plain sight. But the existence of a cult is difficult to prove, and this one’s members are less than forthcoming, requiring her and her fellow agents to deploy all of their available tricks and talents. As her team uncovers shady history and false identities and partners with ex-members on a podcast, she and her FBI agent boyfriend find themselves following the money and working undercover. Even her visiting hippy parents chip in their expertise as residents of an Oregon commune. And, to her horror, her daughters sneak in a spy mission of their own. But a cult is most dangerous when it’s threatened, and her desire to rescue believers makes her a target – and risks exposing cult members on the run. She’ll need more faith in her abilities than she’s ever had to find the truth.
With plenty of twists and turns, Knox & Mare has masterfully crafted a mystery that deftly balances the suspects, clues and red herrings and will leave you pondering the whodunit until the final reveal. Heartfelt and humorous, Knox & Mare's writing and character work are stellar; the characters are well-rounded and complex while remaining incredibly likable with a secondary cast that are well crafted and uniquely voiced. Additionally the authors are a married 2SLGBTQIA+ couple.
Knox & Mare take on some sensitive issues; so take care and check the CWs. While you could read this as a stand-alone, you'll gain so much more by reading the series from the beginning; so be sure to pick up book one, Homemaker.
I received this eARC thanks to NetGalley and 7th Floor Books in exchange for an honest review. Publishing dates are subject to change.
With plenty of twists and turns, Knox & Mare has masterfully crafted a mystery that deftly balances the suspects, clues and red herrings and will leave you pondering the whodunit until the final reveal. Heartfelt and humorous, Knox & Mare's writing and character work are stellar; the characters are well-rounded and complex while remaining incredibly likable with a secondary cast that are well crafted and uniquely voiced. Additionally the authors are a married 2SLGBTQIA+ couple.
Knox & Mare take on some sensitive issues; so take care and check the CWs. While you could read this as a stand-alone, you'll gain so much more by reading the series from the beginning; so be sure to pick up book one, Homemaker.
I received this eARC thanks to NetGalley and 7th Floor Books in exchange for an honest review. Publishing dates are subject to change.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I enjoyed this book. This is the third Prairie Nightingale book in the series and I love how the characters are developing and growing as a team, even the teenagers are getting in on the investigating. The book is very character driven, with a lot of Prairie's home life drama coming into the story. Which, while it might work as a standalone, I think works better if you have read the previous books, as this gives you a better understanding of the dynamics and relationships between the characters. Especially with so many characters involved, like new agency staff, clients, suspects and victims. I love the way The team all are different ages groups and bring different skills sets to the table. The story was nicely written , which made it easy to follow, keep everybody straight and it moved quickly. Even the budding romance was sweet rather than an annoying interlude.
The mystery had a number of moving parts with all the missing woman and who to trust or not too. Despite no big show down, I liked how it played out. It's a scary thought how easy people can be manipulated, especially by people we trust and covers a serious subject. But it's more than just shutting down or going up against a cult. It's a gentle reminder of what is important to everybody, family. I look forward to the next entertaining case from A great group of characters.
When Prairie's daughters friend asks for help finding his cousin, she had no idea of the can of worms she would be opening. First she has to convince the rest of the team that the case is worth investigating. It's actually her father who convinces them after he picks up strange vibes from the cafe. The more they investigate the more they discover missing woman and disgruntled church members. Can Prairie and her team take down a cult? And find the missing cousin? It seems everybody wants to help and even Prairie's parent and daughters get involved in the case.
I liked the narrator. She helped the story come to life by providing different voices for all the characters and there was a lot of them.
I was given this free review copy audio book at my request and have voluntarily left this review
The mystery had a number of moving parts with all the missing woman and who to trust or not too. Despite no big show down, I liked how it played out. It's a scary thought how easy people can be manipulated, especially by people we trust and covers a serious subject. But it's more than just shutting down or going up against a cult. It's a gentle reminder of what is important to everybody, family. I look forward to the next entertaining case from A great group of characters.
When Prairie's daughters friend asks for help finding his cousin, she had no idea of the can of worms she would be opening. First she has to convince the rest of the team that the case is worth investigating. It's actually her father who convinces them after he picks up strange vibes from the cafe. The more they investigate the more they discover missing woman and disgruntled church members. Can Prairie and her team take down a cult? And find the missing cousin? It seems everybody wants to help and even Prairie's parent and daughters get involved in the case.
I liked the narrator. She helped the story come to life by providing different voices for all the characters and there was a lot of them.
I was given this free review copy audio book at my request and have voluntarily left this review
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I got an advanced copy from NetGalley in exchange for my review.
In the beginning when I read this, I did not know anything about the Prairie Nightingale series. This is book 3. I think I would have gotten much more out of it had I read at least the first book in the series before it. I got the feeling that readers should know things about some characters before meeting them in this book. I think the following will help new readers to the series get a more firm foothold in the series:
Prairie is a member of Prairie Hawk, a private investigator business. Two members of the team are her former mother-in-law, Joyce, who is good at uncovering identities and shady histories; the other is Emma who is a forensic genealogist and crime podcaster. Marian is Prairie's highly capable executive assistant.
Foster is more than Prairie's boyfriend. He works for the FBI as an investigative agent. Can sometimes be helpful for Prairie Hawk (PH).
Prairie is a single mom to two daughters, MaeLynn and Anabel. One of Prairie's daughters friends comes to Prairie and asks for help finding a missing family member who is about 10 years older. This cousin has not been seen or heard from by her cousin's parents or rest of the family for a long time.
PH doesn't see a lot of potential money coming in from this case. But they decide to take it. As the team looks into it, they start to find cultish activities.
Prairie has her parents visiting for a short time, only a few days left of their visit. They have more of a "hippyish" and accepting attitude than most. Turns out that Prairie grew up in an Oregon commune where her parents still live. They have experience giving insights of high-control groups, possible cults. In this case, that becomes helpful.
Audiobook: 9h 36m
In the beginning when I read this, I did not know anything about the Prairie Nightingale series. This is book 3. I think I would have gotten much more out of it had I read at least the first book in the series before it. I got the feeling that readers should know things about some characters before meeting them in this book. I think the following will help new readers to the series get a more firm foothold in the series:
Prairie is a member of Prairie Hawk, a private investigator business. Two members of the team are her former mother-in-law, Joyce, who is good at uncovering identities and shady histories; the other is Emma who is a forensic genealogist and crime podcaster. Marian is Prairie's highly capable executive assistant.
Foster is more than Prairie's boyfriend. He works for the FBI as an investigative agent. Can sometimes be helpful for Prairie Hawk (PH).
Prairie is a single mom to two daughters, MaeLynn and Anabel. One of Prairie's daughters friends comes to Prairie and asks for help finding a missing family member who is about 10 years older. This cousin has not been seen or heard from by her cousin's parents or rest of the family for a long time.
PH doesn't see a lot of potential money coming in from this case. But they decide to take it. As the team looks into it, they start to find cultish activities.
Prairie has her parents visiting for a short time, only a few days left of their visit. They have more of a "hippyish" and accepting attitude than most. Turns out that Prairie grew up in an Oregon commune where her parents still live. They have experience giving insights of high-control groups, possible cults. In this case, that becomes helpful.
Audiobook: 9h 36m
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Prairie Nightingale and the rest of her crew are back and better than ever! When Prairie’s daughter’s best friend asks her to look into the case of a missing family member the investigation quickly takes a dark turn and Prairie and gang discover their community has a dark underbelly.
This is the third book of the series and can be read as a standalone but is so much richer when read in order! It is a cozy mystery with an amazing cast of diverse characters. The detective agency is made up of people who shouldn’t fit but do and each has a valuable skill that they bring up the table. There is an emphasis on intelligence, these detectives don’t bumble around until clues fall to them, they work hard to solve the case. There is compassion, found family and more. I loved every minute of this book, it is probably my favorite of the series to date, watching Prairie go from lost homemaker to confident detective is the feel good I needed. There are some serious topics covered but enough silly moments to keep it from being so dark while still drawing attention to real problems.
I am so thankful that I was able to experience this as an audiobook, the narration fits my perception of Prairie perfectly, although I felt like her range for male voices wasn’t as strong. Otherwise, the narration kept me engaged and riveted, not wanting to stop the book for anything. When I did finish it I had trouble finding another book because I couldn’t stop thinking about this one. Absolutely recommend! Thank you so much Brilliance Publishing for the advanced listening copy of Believer! This is my honest and voluntary review.
This is the third book of the series and can be read as a standalone but is so much richer when read in order! It is a cozy mystery with an amazing cast of diverse characters. The detective agency is made up of people who shouldn’t fit but do and each has a valuable skill that they bring up the table. There is an emphasis on intelligence, these detectives don’t bumble around until clues fall to them, they work hard to solve the case. There is compassion, found family and more. I loved every minute of this book, it is probably my favorite of the series to date, watching Prairie go from lost homemaker to confident detective is the feel good I needed. There are some serious topics covered but enough silly moments to keep it from being so dark while still drawing attention to real problems.
I am so thankful that I was able to experience this as an audiobook, the narration fits my perception of Prairie perfectly, although I felt like her range for male voices wasn’t as strong. Otherwise, the narration kept me engaged and riveted, not wanting to stop the book for anything. When I did finish it I had trouble finding another book because I couldn’t stop thinking about this one. Absolutely recommend! Thank you so much Brilliance Publishing for the advanced listening copy of Believer! This is my honest and voluntary review.
August 22, 2026
I have really enjoyed the Prairie Nightingale books, I love how it is a cozy mystery feel BUT the FMC, Prairie, is actually a registered PI, works with a PI Firm full of women who each have a unique set of skills to help solve mysteries AND she does not put herself in unnecessary danger. The third book did not disappoint on any of these levels . I enjoyed seeing her and her co-workers continue to work as a team and bring in a new member. Seriously, boss babe goals, they all work so well together and are on equal footing and just want to support each other and help the client and/or victim. I also love how involved her daughters get at times and even her ex Greg and especially her kinda boyfriend Foster.
The mystery in this one had so many layers to it but I loved how Prairie and her team worked hard to find the people they were paid to and offered any help they could to bring down a cult. Cults are inherently misogynistic and I appreciated how some of the victims behind the scenes were doing what they could to get out and/or bring them down. I enjoyed seeing the females support each other in this book, they were understanding, did not judge, and fair worked towards what was best for them.
All in all it was a feel good mystery with many layers that immersed me in the story. I would like to see more move along for Foster and Prairie but I also appreciate how Prairies relationship with her daughters and Greg progressed in this book. I am so ready for the next one to see where the cold case goes!!
The mystery in this one had so many layers to it but I loved how Prairie and her team worked hard to find the people they were paid to and offered any help they could to bring down a cult. Cults are inherently misogynistic and I appreciated how some of the victims behind the scenes were doing what they could to get out and/or bring them down. I enjoyed seeing the females support each other in this book, they were understanding, did not judge, and fair worked towards what was best for them.
All in all it was a feel good mystery with many layers that immersed me in the story. I would like to see more move along for Foster and Prairie but I also appreciate how Prairies relationship with her daughters and Greg progressed in this book. I am so ready for the next one to see where the cold case goes!!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Believer is my favorite book in the Prairie Nightingale series so far, and I am already anxious for the next one.
The women-run detective agency continues to be one of my favorite parts of this series. Watching Prairie and her team divide and conquer as they untangle this cult was so satisfying to read. Joyce digging into shady histories, Emma partnering with ex-members for her podcast, and Prairie and Foster following the money undercover all show just how well this team works together. Everyone brings something different to the table, which makes the investigation feel layered and believable.
Prairie and Foster continue to grow closer in this one, and I love how well they complement each other. I am definitely rooting for them.
Meeting Prairie’s parents added another great dimension to the story. Their firsthand knowledge of high-control groups from their time on an Oregon commune gave the investigation some interesting depth, and I loved seeing them step in to help. Prairie’s daughters, Anabel and Maelynn, are growing up right along with the series, too, and their sneaky little spy mission had me both nervous and delighted.
Knox and Mare handle the cult subject matter with real care, while still delivering a mystery with plenty of twists that kept me guessing. I’m completely hooked on this series and even more invested in these characters after this book. Whatever comes next for Prairie and her team, I’ll be there for it.
Thank you to the authors and publisher for this ARC.
Release Date: September 8, 2026
The women-run detective agency continues to be one of my favorite parts of this series. Watching Prairie and her team divide and conquer as they untangle this cult was so satisfying to read. Joyce digging into shady histories, Emma partnering with ex-members for her podcast, and Prairie and Foster following the money undercover all show just how well this team works together. Everyone brings something different to the table, which makes the investigation feel layered and believable.
Prairie and Foster continue to grow closer in this one, and I love how well they complement each other. I am definitely rooting for them.
Meeting Prairie’s parents added another great dimension to the story. Their firsthand knowledge of high-control groups from their time on an Oregon commune gave the investigation some interesting depth, and I loved seeing them step in to help. Prairie’s daughters, Anabel and Maelynn, are growing up right along with the series, too, and their sneaky little spy mission had me both nervous and delighted.
Knox and Mare handle the cult subject matter with real care, while still delivering a mystery with plenty of twists that kept me guessing. I’m completely hooked on this series and even more invested in these characters after this book. Whatever comes next for Prairie and her team, I’ll be there for it.
Thank you to the authors and publisher for this ARC.
Release Date: September 8, 2026
September 2, 2026
4.5 stars
Believer by Ruthie Knox & Annie Mare is the third book in the Prairie Nightingale series, and I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have read all three books as ARCs. At this point, these characters feel like old friends, and I absolutely love the way these authors bring them to life.
This was such a fun, twisty audiobook! I really enjoyed the combination of mystery, family drama, cult investigation, and just enough humor and personal relationships to keep the story moving.
I loved following Prairie and her team as they tried to unravel what was really happening behind the seemingly ordinary façade of a high-control group. There were plenty of secrets, questionable identities, and twists that kept me guessing. And Prairie’s daughters getting involved in their own little spy mission? Definitely added another layer of tension!
One of my favorite things about this series is the characters. I love spending time with Prairie and her team, and the way Knox and Mare balance the mystery with the characters’ personal lives makes these books so much more than just a case to solve.
Mia Hutchinson-Shaw did a fantastic job narrating this audiobook. Her narration kept me engaged and brought the characters and story to life.
This was a 4.5-star read for me, and I’m already looking forward to whatever comes next for Prairie and her crew. If you enjoy mysteries with strong female characters, complicated family dynamics, secrets, and a unique premise, I definitely recommend this series!
Thank you to Brilliance Audio and NetGalley for the ALC. All opinions are my own.
Believer by Ruthie Knox & Annie Mare is the third book in the Prairie Nightingale series, and I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have read all three books as ARCs. At this point, these characters feel like old friends, and I absolutely love the way these authors bring them to life.
This was such a fun, twisty audiobook! I really enjoyed the combination of mystery, family drama, cult investigation, and just enough humor and personal relationships to keep the story moving.
I loved following Prairie and her team as they tried to unravel what was really happening behind the seemingly ordinary façade of a high-control group. There were plenty of secrets, questionable identities, and twists that kept me guessing. And Prairie’s daughters getting involved in their own little spy mission? Definitely added another layer of tension!
One of my favorite things about this series is the characters. I love spending time with Prairie and her team, and the way Knox and Mare balance the mystery with the characters’ personal lives makes these books so much more than just a case to solve.
Mia Hutchinson-Shaw did a fantastic job narrating this audiobook. Her narration kept me engaged and brought the characters and story to life.
This was a 4.5-star read for me, and I’m already looking forward to whatever comes next for Prairie and her crew. If you enjoy mysteries with strong female characters, complicated family dynamics, secrets, and a unique premise, I definitely recommend this series!
Thank you to Brilliance Audio and NetGalley for the ALC. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
📚 Believer
✍️ Ruthie Knox; Annie Mare
🎙️ Mia Hutchinson-Shaw
Series: Prairie Nightingale Mysteries, Book 3
Release Date: September 8, 2026
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Sometimes you’ll find me write something along the lines of “this book has everything I look for in a cozy mystery…” Well, this one did. And more. As ridiculous as it sounds, in addition to being a great mystery, it hated all the things I hate and cared about all the things I do to.
This mystery centers on a religious cult preying mostly on youth, recruiting them at their most vulnerable and turning them against people that truly love them. While Prairie’s team was on the fence about taking the case on, I’m so glad they did. I won’t give any mystery details away, but damn if I don’t hate people that force religion/their way of thinking on others.
As for the characters - there was SO MUCH character development in this book. And I thought I already knew plenty. Families are growing, business is developing, kids are growing up. Prairie is a bit more of a hot-mess-express, but still oh so relatable and endearing - especially for an overwhelmed autism mom like me!
It sounds like this may be the final book in the series which makes me sad, but at the same time I’m happy where things were left.
✍️ Ruthie Knox; Annie Mare
🎙️ Mia Hutchinson-Shaw
Series: Prairie Nightingale Mysteries, Book 3
Release Date: September 8, 2026
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Sometimes you’ll find me write something along the lines of “this book has everything I look for in a cozy mystery…” Well, this one did. And more. As ridiculous as it sounds, in addition to being a great mystery, it hated all the things I hate and cared about all the things I do to.
This mystery centers on a religious cult preying mostly on youth, recruiting them at their most vulnerable and turning them against people that truly love them. While Prairie’s team was on the fence about taking the case on, I’m so glad they did. I won’t give any mystery details away, but damn if I don’t hate people that force religion/their way of thinking on others.
As for the characters - there was SO MUCH character development in this book. And I thought I already knew plenty. Families are growing, business is developing, kids are growing up. Prairie is a bit more of a hot-mess-express, but still oh so relatable and endearing - especially for an overwhelmed autism mom like me!
It sounds like this may be the final book in the series which makes me sad, but at the same time I’m happy where things were left.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was a cute read that is appropriate for both teens and adults alike. While it’s categorized as an adult mystery, the presence of a teenaged major secondary character creates a bridge between the age groups that can be equally enjoyable for both.
This is the third book in the Prairie Nightingale series, but it definitely works as an interconnected standalone, with seemingly only background details carrying over. I haven’t read the first two books, but I never felt like I was missing anything.
While I’m not sure I fully connected with the characters, I was invested in the mystery to some degree. I read the audiobook and really enjoyed Mia Hutchinson-Shaw’s narration. She did a great job switching up her vocals to convey the different characters subtly but effectively, and her pacing is swift and even. She easily elevates the prose, as it’s just plain enjoyable to read.
I’m thankful to Brilliance Audio for the complimentary ALC of this title via NetGalley. I enjoyed the read and would be happy to check out the other books in the series, especially as a low-stakes mystery I could easily buddy read with the teens in my life.
This is the third book in the Prairie Nightingale series, but it definitely works as an interconnected standalone, with seemingly only background details carrying over. I haven’t read the first two books, but I never felt like I was missing anything.
While I’m not sure I fully connected with the characters, I was invested in the mystery to some degree. I read the audiobook and really enjoyed Mia Hutchinson-Shaw’s narration. She did a great job switching up her vocals to convey the different characters subtly but effectively, and her pacing is swift and even. She easily elevates the prose, as it’s just plain enjoyable to read.
I’m thankful to Brilliance Audio for the complimentary ALC of this title via NetGalley. I enjoyed the read and would be happy to check out the other books in the series, especially as a low-stakes mystery I could easily buddy read with the teens in my life.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Believer wasn’t my favorite book in the series, but there were still a lot of things I enjoyed about it.
One of my favorite parts of this series continues to be the character development. Even the minor characters feel well-developed, and I love seeing how everyone grows from book to book. Prairie and Foster’s relationship is another highlight for me—it has just the right amount of romance without taking away from the mystery.
The cult storyline was interesting, although I didn’t find myself quite as invested in this mystery as I have been with the previous books. I thought I had everything figured out, and while I was right about part of it, there were still some surprises along the way.
Overall, not my favorite installment, but I still really enjoy these characters and will definitely continue with the series!
Thank you to NetGalley and 7th Floor Books for the eARC in exchange for my honest review.
Believer wasn’t my favorite book in the series, but there were still a lot of things I enjoyed about it.
One of my favorite parts of this series continues to be the character development. Even the minor characters feel well-developed, and I love seeing how everyone grows from book to book. Prairie and Foster’s relationship is another highlight for me—it has just the right amount of romance without taking away from the mystery.
The cult storyline was interesting, although I didn’t find myself quite as invested in this mystery as I have been with the previous books. I thought I had everything figured out, and while I was right about part of it, there were still some surprises along the way.
Overall, not my favorite installment, but I still really enjoy these characters and will definitely continue with the series!
Thank you to NetGalley and 7th Floor Books for the eARC in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
⭐⭐⭐¾ 3.75 stars
This was another fun addition to the Prairie Nightingale series! I really enjoy this group of characters and seeing how they’ve grown together over the last three books. I especially liked that Prairie’s family—and even the teenagers—get pulled into the investigating this time around.
There are quite a few moving pieces with missing women, suspicious church members, and plenty of questions about who can actually be trusted, but it moved quickly and was easy to follow. I also enjoyed the little bit of romance mixed in without it taking over the story.
I listened to the audiobook and Mia Hutchinson-Shaw was fantastic! There are a lot of characters to keep straight, and she gave each of them their own personality and really brought the story to life.
Another entertaining mystery with a cast of characters I’m always happy to spend time with!
Thank you to NetGalley, 7th Floor Books and Brilliance Audio for the early read & listen!
This was another fun addition to the Prairie Nightingale series! I really enjoy this group of characters and seeing how they’ve grown together over the last three books. I especially liked that Prairie’s family—and even the teenagers—get pulled into the investigating this time around.
There are quite a few moving pieces with missing women, suspicious church members, and plenty of questions about who can actually be trusted, but it moved quickly and was easy to follow. I also enjoyed the little bit of romance mixed in without it taking over the story.
I listened to the audiobook and Mia Hutchinson-Shaw was fantastic! There are a lot of characters to keep straight, and she gave each of them their own personality and really brought the story to life.
Another entertaining mystery with a cast of characters I’m always happy to spend time with!
Thank you to NetGalley, 7th Floor Books and Brilliance Audio for the early read & listen!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Prairie and her quirky investigation team are back at it! This time, a friend of one of her daughters comes to them looking for their missing cousin. The deeper they dig, the more they uncover, including cult-like activities happening right in their own backyard.
With the help of a new intern and the team’s unique talents, these ladies prove once again that they’re better together and manage to take down the masterminds behind the organization. Meanwhile, Prairie’s FBI boyfriend, Foster, is there supporting her zany ways and wonderfully odd family dynamic.
Another fun mystery with plenty of quirky characters, teamwork, and twists!
Thank you to Bettas Brilliant Publishing for the free advanced copy. I am voluntarily leaving this review.
With the help of a new intern and the team’s unique talents, these ladies prove once again that they’re better together and manage to take down the masterminds behind the organization. Meanwhile, Prairie’s FBI boyfriend, Foster, is there supporting her zany ways and wonderfully odd family dynamic.
Another fun mystery with plenty of quirky characters, teamwork, and twists!
Thank you to Bettas Brilliant Publishing for the free advanced copy. I am voluntarily leaving this review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
3.5 stars for me.
A cozy mystery that catch my attention.Prairie Nightingale, PI, looking into her daughter’s best friend cousin who might joined the cult.Nothing is at it seems and soon Prairie uncover more than missing person.I liked Prairie,even as a single mother she wanted to have a good relationship with her ex husband,and her daughter's are very lucky the way she taken care of things.The cult and secrets surronding them left me with chill,for so many years they operate and never get catch.There's a little bit of romantic moments with FBI agent,and maybe Prairie will get her happy ending one day.A good cozy mystery audio,that left me with a warm feeling.
Thank you Brilliance Publishing | Brilliance Audio for audio arc,my review is honest and my own.
A cozy mystery that catch my attention.Prairie Nightingale, PI, looking into her daughter’s best friend cousin who might joined the cult.Nothing is at it seems and soon Prairie uncover more than missing person.I liked Prairie,even as a single mother she wanted to have a good relationship with her ex husband,and her daughter's are very lucky the way she taken care of things.The cult and secrets surronding them left me with chill,for so many years they operate and never get catch.There's a little bit of romantic moments with FBI agent,and maybe Prairie will get her happy ending one day.A good cozy mystery audio,that left me with a warm feeling.
Thank you Brilliance Publishing | Brilliance Audio for audio arc,my review is honest and my own.
August 22, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Brilliance Publishing for an advanced audio copy in exchange for an honest review
This is a really fun cozy mystery. It’s the 3rd book in the series which I didn’t know going in but didn’t feel I was missing anything by starting here! (I will go back and read the first two after this though)
Prairie is a PI who gets a tip about a fishy new business in town which leads to the investigation of a cult and uncovering of years of the same stories.
The twists were good and I loved the characters. Would recommend to cozy mystery fans
This is a really fun cozy mystery. It’s the 3rd book in the series which I didn’t know going in but didn’t feel I was missing anything by starting here! (I will go back and read the first two after this though)
Prairie is a PI who gets a tip about a fishy new business in town which leads to the investigation of a cult and uncovering of years of the same stories.
The twists were good and I loved the characters. Would recommend to cozy mystery fans
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
There are things I really like about this series. The characters are great — Prairie, her chaotic family, the slow-build with Foster — and Mia Hutchinson-Shaw handles the cast well. But three books in, I continue to have a hard time caring about the actual cases. The mysteries feel disconnected from all the character work I'm enjoying, like two separate books running in parallel, and for a mystery series that's kinda key.
I think this is my last go with the series, but it def has its fans.
I think this is my last go with the series, but it def has its fans.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The audiobook for this book is amazing. The narrator does in amazing job conveying emotion and does not sound robotic at all so it’s easy to get sucked into the story!
The material itself is also great! I could not stop listening to discover what happens next. I love the main private investigator, Prairie. She is so relatable and funny. So easy to be attached to. If you love crime investigative books I would definitely recommend this one for you.
The material itself is also great! I could not stop listening to discover what happens next. I love the main private investigator, Prairie. She is so relatable and funny. So easy to be attached to. If you love crime investigative books I would definitely recommend this one for you.
August 25, 2026
4.5⭐️ I seriously love this Prairie Nightingale series the more books I get to read. Not sure how I got so lucky to ready this as an ARC, but I loved Believer! I love the dynamic of Prairie as a mom and a PI… this story is like a mystery, a comedy, and a warm blanket all wrapped together. Please give us more Prairie (and Foster)! ❤️
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