What do you think?
Winslow & Dyer #1
Nowhere Good
Not yet published
Expected 24 Sep 26A criminal’s daughter and a city detective collide in this gritty romantic thriller perfect for fans of Karen Rose and Kendra Elliot.
Claire Dyer knows what kind of man her father is. The rest of Fairview, Missouri sees him as a pillar of the community—but Claire suspects he's the one feeding the town's opioid crisis. She's just been too afraid to speak up after what happened last time she tried to run. So she plays the good girl; she bartends at the family's bar, dates who she's told to date, and keeps her head down...
Until an addict is found murdered in town with the words it should have been me carved into her skin.
The victim looks just like Claire. It's the first thing Detective Seth Winslow notices when he arrives from Kansas City to take over the case. As the youngest man on the force, battling his own history with addiction, he's determined to solve this crime quickly and quietly.
But the killer has other plans. As more girls resembling Claire are killed, the investigation keeps leading Seth to the Dyers' doorstep—and to Claire. She's his best witness, but the closer he gets, the more the line between protecting her and wanting her starts to blur. Claire is desperate to trust this new detective, but doing so would mean the one thing she swore she'd never do: betray her family.
Claire Dyer knows what kind of man her father is. The rest of Fairview, Missouri sees him as a pillar of the community—but Claire suspects he's the one feeding the town's opioid crisis. She's just been too afraid to speak up after what happened last time she tried to run. So she plays the good girl; she bartends at the family's bar, dates who she's told to date, and keeps her head down...
Until an addict is found murdered in town with the words it should have been me carved into her skin.
The victim looks just like Claire. It's the first thing Detective Seth Winslow notices when he arrives from Kansas City to take over the case. As the youngest man on the force, battling his own history with addiction, he's determined to solve this crime quickly and quietly.
But the killer has other plans. As more girls resembling Claire are killed, the investigation keeps leading Seth to the Dyers' doorstep—and to Claire. She's his best witness, but the closer he gets, the more the line between protecting her and wanting her starts to blur. Claire is desperate to trust this new detective, but doing so would mean the one thing she swore she'd never do: betray her family.
- GenresMystery Thriller
383 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication September 24, 2026
About the author
T.J. Ellory
2 books32 followersT.J. Ellory is the penname of a young adult author who wishes to put her adult works out there. Her upcoming debut romantic thriller, NOWHERE GOOD, features a slow-burn romance in a small Missouri town that is battling the opioid crisis. T.J. enjoys playing with familiar tropes and writing gritty, realistic fiction with a love story at the center and characters who are in peril. She currently lives in Canada with her boyfriend, leopard gecko, and extremely fluffy cat. Find her on social media @authortjellory.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 160 reviews
August 11, 2026
4.5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
WOW!! Easily the best thriller I’ve read all year. I was hooked from the very first chapter into the plot. While a few of the twists were predictable, it worked in the best way because there were so many twists that weren’t predictable. A little bit of romance sprinkled in amongst the fast paced drama, I finished this book in two days because I literally couldn’t put it down! I gave up sleep (and my 1 year old barely sleeps as it is!). I will for sure be reading more books from this author and cannot wait for the next book to come out.
Add this one to your TBR or get on your waitlist for it at your local library…. You’re not gonna want to miss it!
WOW!! Easily the best thriller I’ve read all year. I was hooked from the very first chapter into the plot. While a few of the twists were predictable, it worked in the best way because there were so many twists that weren’t predictable. A little bit of romance sprinkled in amongst the fast paced drama, I finished this book in two days because I literally couldn’t put it down! I gave up sleep (and my 1 year old barely sleeps as it is!). I will for sure be reading more books from this author and cannot wait for the next book to come out.
Add this one to your TBR or get on your waitlist for it at your local library…. You’re not gonna want to miss it!
August 12, 2026
Ron Dyer has no idea what the meaning of love or family means. He’s a manipulative man who loves the power of control, and knowing that you fear him.
When Detective Seth Winslow comes to town, he knows something isn’t right. Claire and Clementine are Ron’s daughters. Even though he’s always wanted sons, Ron has two daughters who look just like their mom did.
Their mom went missing years prior; in what everyone assumes was a hike gone wrong with a bear attack.
Detective Winslow was brought into town because of a murdered addict.
The town of Fairview is about to be turned upside down and inside out because there just so happens to be two more murders, which turns these individual murders into a serial killer spree.
When Detective Seth Winslow comes to town, he knows something isn’t right. Claire and Clementine are Ron’s daughters. Even though he’s always wanted sons, Ron has two daughters who look just like their mom did.
Their mom went missing years prior; in what everyone assumes was a hike gone wrong with a bear attack.
Detective Winslow was brought into town because of a murdered addict.
The town of Fairview is about to be turned upside down and inside out because there just so happens to be two more murders, which turns these individual murders into a serial killer spree.
August 3, 2026
This was such an exciting read!
The beginning took me a little while to get into because there are a lot of characters, relationships, and storylines introduced early on. At times it felt like there was a lot to keep track of, but once everything started falling into place, I couldn’t put it down.
Claire was a compelling main character, and I found myself rooting for her from the very beginning. The mystery kept me guessing, and every time I thought I had something figured out, something else came along and completely changed my perspective. The pacing really picked up in the second half, and from that point on I kept telling myself, “Just one more chapter.”
I also really enjoyed the balance between the suspense and the emotional moments. Neither one overshadowed the other, and it made the story even more engaging.
Thank you to the author, T.J. Ellory for sending me an ARC for my honest review.
The beginning took me a little while to get into because there are a lot of characters, relationships, and storylines introduced early on. At times it felt like there was a lot to keep track of, but once everything started falling into place, I couldn’t put it down.
Claire was a compelling main character, and I found myself rooting for her from the very beginning. The mystery kept me guessing, and every time I thought I had something figured out, something else came along and completely changed my perspective. The pacing really picked up in the second half, and from that point on I kept telling myself, “Just one more chapter.”
I also really enjoyed the balance between the suspense and the emotional moments. Neither one overshadowed the other, and it made the story even more engaging.
Thank you to the author, T.J. Ellory for sending me an ARC for my honest review.
July 27, 2026
This was my first ARC, and I’m so happy that this was my first. The pacing was perfect, I couldn’t put it down. The characters were very well developed,and I found myself genuinely concerned at times. I cant wait for everyone to read this!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an ARC copy in exchange for my honest review. NOWHERE GOOD is the best novel, in any genre, that I have read in a long while. In my opinion, T.J. Ellory is the new Tana French.
August 17, 2026
I received this novel as an ARC in exchange for an honest review as a co-founder of Novel Tea Spilled Bookstagram.
My review will be posted @novelteaspilled as well this week.
⭐️ ARC REVIEW | Nowhere Good by T.J. Ellory ⭐️
Nowhere Good gave me the kind of reading high I’ve been chasing since 2012. I have not been this completely consumed by a book in over a decade—and somehow, even obsessed doesn’t feel like a strong enough word.
T.J. Ellory writes with such conviction that it feels less like she created this story and more like she lived it. I knew from the first chapter, when I read the line, “Not when freedom was so close she could taste it like honey on her tongue,” that I was in for something special. This wasn’t going to be a story I simply read; it was going to be one I experienced.
There is something about Ellory’s writing that gets under your skin. I’ve gotten chills just discussing this book with fellow readers afterward, and I genuinely can’t remember another book having that effect on me.
Nowhere Good is romantic suspense done exactly the way I want romantic suspense to be done. The romance feels natural and realistic within the circumstances—there is a killer on the loose, after all—and the story never sacrifices its tension just to push Seth and Claire together. Their relationship is a slow burn, but I was never so focused on waiting for the romance to develop that I lost sight of the suspense unfolding around them. The two elements complement each other beautifully, each making the other more compelling.
And the suspense? It had me guessing.
Every time I thought I had figured out where the story was headed, something shifted. There was one point where I managed to narrow my suspicions down to two possibilities, but even then, neither felt like the obvious answer. The mystery never became so glaring that I could comfortably call it—and that made the payoff even more satisfying.
I finished Nowhere Good feeling like I had finally found the book I’d been waiting years to read.
I cannot recommend this one enough. If romantic suspense, slow-burn tension, characters you become completely invested in, and a mystery that keeps you second-guessing yourself are your thing, put this one on your radar immediately.
Don’t walk—RUN when Nowhere Good releases. You are not going to want to miss it.
Thank you to T.J. Ellory for the ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own. 🤍
My review will be posted @novelteaspilled as well this week.
⭐️ ARC REVIEW | Nowhere Good by T.J. Ellory ⭐️
Nowhere Good gave me the kind of reading high I’ve been chasing since 2012. I have not been this completely consumed by a book in over a decade—and somehow, even obsessed doesn’t feel like a strong enough word.
T.J. Ellory writes with such conviction that it feels less like she created this story and more like she lived it. I knew from the first chapter, when I read the line, “Not when freedom was so close she could taste it like honey on her tongue,” that I was in for something special. This wasn’t going to be a story I simply read; it was going to be one I experienced.
There is something about Ellory’s writing that gets under your skin. I’ve gotten chills just discussing this book with fellow readers afterward, and I genuinely can’t remember another book having that effect on me.
Nowhere Good is romantic suspense done exactly the way I want romantic suspense to be done. The romance feels natural and realistic within the circumstances—there is a killer on the loose, after all—and the story never sacrifices its tension just to push Seth and Claire together. Their relationship is a slow burn, but I was never so focused on waiting for the romance to develop that I lost sight of the suspense unfolding around them. The two elements complement each other beautifully, each making the other more compelling.
And the suspense? It had me guessing.
Every time I thought I had figured out where the story was headed, something shifted. There was one point where I managed to narrow my suspicions down to two possibilities, but even then, neither felt like the obvious answer. The mystery never became so glaring that I could comfortably call it—and that made the payoff even more satisfying.
I finished Nowhere Good feeling like I had finally found the book I’d been waiting years to read.
I cannot recommend this one enough. If romantic suspense, slow-burn tension, characters you become completely invested in, and a mystery that keeps you second-guessing yourself are your thing, put this one on your radar immediately.
Don’t walk—RUN when Nowhere Good releases. You are not going to want to miss it.
Thank you to T.J. Ellory for the ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own. 🤍
August 16, 2026
Honestly one of my top reads of this year!! I couldn’t put it down. I had to know what was going to happen! It sucks you in immediately from the very beginning. The characters have so much depth to them & history. You have a detective that comes to town to investigate some homicides & a possible serial killer case, & falls for a witness. The witness has sooo much going on with her family & past. You really feel for her throughout the entire story. It was a suuuuper slow burn, but worth it! The plot twists, suspense, & emotional moments were top tier. I’m really anxious for the sequel to see the character’s story continue!
Thank you so much T.J. Ellory for this ARC in exchange for my review❤️
***Definitely check the triggers as this does cover a lot of deep topics.
Thank you so much T.J. Ellory for this ARC in exchange for my review❤️
***Definitely check the triggers as this does cover a lot of deep topics.
August 27, 2026
Thank you TJ for the ARC!
4.5/5 ⭐️ easily one of my favorite thrillers of the year!
I was nervous because this is book #1 in the series and it was long. But it went QUICK!
Really loved the details and character development. Also loved that I had my own theories but really never quite figured it out.
4.5/5 ⭐️ easily one of my favorite thrillers of the year!
I was nervous because this is book #1 in the series and it was long. But it went QUICK!
Really loved the details and character development. Also loved that I had my own theories but really never quite figured it out.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review – Nowhere Good by T.J. Ellory
Thank you to T.J. Ellory for the ARC. This review reflects my honest opinions.
I devoured this book.
If you love dark, atmospheric crime thrillers with a slow-burn romance woven through the mystery, Nowhere Good absolutely deserves a spot on your TBR. This romantic thriller that feels like you're binge-watching Mindhunter’s, with added romance…. just to keep it spicy!
Nowhere Good perfectly blends a gripping murder investigation with a beautifully developed slow-burn romance. The romance never overshadows the mystery, it enhances it. Every clue, every suspect, and every twist kept me questioning who could really be trusted.
From the first chapter, the story pulls you into a small town where everyone seems to be hiding something. The atmosphere is heavy with secrets, and there's a constant feeling that no one can be fully trusted. Every new clue made me question what I thought I knew, and I loved that the mystery never felt predictable.
The characters are one of this book's biggest strengths. Seth and Claire feel like real people, flawed, resilient, and layered. Seth, the dedicated homicide detective, is determined, protective, and impossible not to root for. Claire doesn't simply fall into his arms, she's cautious, independent, and has every reason to guard her trust. Their relationship develops naturally, making every moment between them feel earned instead of rushed. The romance adds emotional depth without ever taking away from the murder investigation.
The investigation itself is gripping and realistic, with enough twists to keep me turning the pages late into the night. The villains are layered rather than cartoonishly evil, making the story feel grounded and believable. Even the people you dislike have motivations that make sense, which only adds to the suspense.
T.J. Ellory has a cinematic writing style that made every scene play out vividly in my mind. It genuinely felt like I was watching a prestige crime drama unfold.
If you're a fan of Mindhunter or True Detective-style mysteries with rich characters and a touch of romance, I think you'll really enjoy this one.
I'm already looking forward to returning to Winslow and seeing where this series goes next.
If you love:
🖤 Detective MMC × Witness FMC
🖤 He falls first
🖤 Slow-burn romance
🖤 Small-town secrets
🖤 A serial killer investigation
🖤 Family secrets and generational trauma
🖤 Realistic, flawed characters
🖤 Nuanced villains
🖤 Atmospheric, cinematic storytelling
🖤 The promise of an exciting new series…
...then Nowhere Good is absolutely worth your time.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Fave Quotes: Nowhere Good
"Whatever it is, I'll believe you." ❤️
“I Can’t believe Daddy asked us to shuck fuckin’ corn at a time like this.” 😉
Thank you to T.J. Ellory for the ARC. This review reflects my honest opinions.
I devoured this book.
If you love dark, atmospheric crime thrillers with a slow-burn romance woven through the mystery, Nowhere Good absolutely deserves a spot on your TBR. This romantic thriller that feels like you're binge-watching Mindhunter’s, with added romance…. just to keep it spicy!
Nowhere Good perfectly blends a gripping murder investigation with a beautifully developed slow-burn romance. The romance never overshadows the mystery, it enhances it. Every clue, every suspect, and every twist kept me questioning who could really be trusted.
From the first chapter, the story pulls you into a small town where everyone seems to be hiding something. The atmosphere is heavy with secrets, and there's a constant feeling that no one can be fully trusted. Every new clue made me question what I thought I knew, and I loved that the mystery never felt predictable.
The characters are one of this book's biggest strengths. Seth and Claire feel like real people, flawed, resilient, and layered. Seth, the dedicated homicide detective, is determined, protective, and impossible not to root for. Claire doesn't simply fall into his arms, she's cautious, independent, and has every reason to guard her trust. Their relationship develops naturally, making every moment between them feel earned instead of rushed. The romance adds emotional depth without ever taking away from the murder investigation.
The investigation itself is gripping and realistic, with enough twists to keep me turning the pages late into the night. The villains are layered rather than cartoonishly evil, making the story feel grounded and believable. Even the people you dislike have motivations that make sense, which only adds to the suspense.
T.J. Ellory has a cinematic writing style that made every scene play out vividly in my mind. It genuinely felt like I was watching a prestige crime drama unfold.
If you're a fan of Mindhunter or True Detective-style mysteries with rich characters and a touch of romance, I think you'll really enjoy this one.
I'm already looking forward to returning to Winslow and seeing where this series goes next.
If you love:
🖤 Detective MMC × Witness FMC
🖤 He falls first
🖤 Slow-burn romance
🖤 Small-town secrets
🖤 A serial killer investigation
🖤 Family secrets and generational trauma
🖤 Realistic, flawed characters
🖤 Nuanced villains
🖤 Atmospheric, cinematic storytelling
🖤 The promise of an exciting new series…
...then Nowhere Good is absolutely worth your time.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Fave Quotes: Nowhere Good
"Whatever it is, I'll believe you." ❤️
“I Can’t believe Daddy asked us to shuck fuckin’ corn at a time like this.” 😉
Review of advance copy received from Author
*Spoiler-free review*
"Just because they were out, walking freely, didn’t mean they weren’t both still in that cage."
Thank you to the author, T.J. Ellory, for sending me an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Content warning: psychological and physical abuse, brief descriptions of sexual assault, murder, and drug addiction. This book is rated for adult fiction.
Nowhere Good is a suspense story that you will not be able to tear your eyes away from until you have finished reading the book entirely. It took me about 10 days to read it, and I was hooked from the first word. The pace is perfect for a reader who enjoys mystery/suspense novels without too much drag, but also values some world-building and character relations. The mystery/suspense is the clear plot driver, holding the core of this story and tethering the readers to it. There were several moving pieces in the mystery/suspense, including a central serial killer, various other criminals, and a very secretive family, all of which were relevant and kept the story engaging. There was also a subsidiary romantic subplot featuring the MMC, Seth Winslow, a sharp detective who recovered from a debilitating past of his own, and the FMC, Claire Dyers, who is resilient and kind, but controlled by her family. The romance was not distracting and did not follow a typical girl-who-needs-saving trope. Instead, Claire was strong enough on her own to find answers and speak up for herself, forming a bond that felt secure and natural rather than dependent. Not to mention, the slow-burn is always a great bonus to any romance. Departing from the main characters, all of the side characters were also nicely fleshed out and served a purpose. I found myself feeling sympathy for characters like Clementine, Marty, and Dillon, hoping that they'd rise above their circumstances and speak out more as Claire did. On a final note, I also found this story to be a pleasant read, without overwhelming the readers with too much information, plot holes, or confusing details that weren't explained later. The prose had the perfect balance of descriptions and dialogue; everything needed to paint the picture for the reader and to progress the story forward. Overall, a fantastic novel and a MUST-read! T.J. Ellory is gonna be the next best author!!
"Just because they were out, walking freely, didn’t mean they weren’t both still in that cage."
Thank you to the author, T.J. Ellory, for sending me an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Content warning: psychological and physical abuse, brief descriptions of sexual assault, murder, and drug addiction. This book is rated for adult fiction.
Nowhere Good is a suspense story that you will not be able to tear your eyes away from until you have finished reading the book entirely. It took me about 10 days to read it, and I was hooked from the first word. The pace is perfect for a reader who enjoys mystery/suspense novels without too much drag, but also values some world-building and character relations. The mystery/suspense is the clear plot driver, holding the core of this story and tethering the readers to it. There were several moving pieces in the mystery/suspense, including a central serial killer, various other criminals, and a very secretive family, all of which were relevant and kept the story engaging. There was also a subsidiary romantic subplot featuring the MMC, Seth Winslow, a sharp detective who recovered from a debilitating past of his own, and the FMC, Claire Dyers, who is resilient and kind, but controlled by her family. The romance was not distracting and did not follow a typical girl-who-needs-saving trope. Instead, Claire was strong enough on her own to find answers and speak up for herself, forming a bond that felt secure and natural rather than dependent. Not to mention, the slow-burn is always a great bonus to any romance. Departing from the main characters, all of the side characters were also nicely fleshed out and served a purpose. I found myself feeling sympathy for characters like Clementine, Marty, and Dillon, hoping that they'd rise above their circumstances and speak out more as Claire did. On a final note, I also found this story to be a pleasant read, without overwhelming the readers with too much information, plot holes, or confusing details that weren't explained later. The prose had the perfect balance of descriptions and dialogue; everything needed to paint the picture for the reader and to progress the story forward. Overall, a fantastic novel and a MUST-read! T.J. Ellory is gonna be the next best author!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Fairview might be a small town, but there is absolutely nothing small about the secrets buried there.
Nowhere Good was a brilliant read. I went in expecting a dark romantic thriller filled with murder, mystery, complicated histories and small-town secrets, and it delivered on every one of those elements.
There is a lot happening throughout this story, but it never felt overcrowded. Everything was given the detail it needed, the pacing stayed strong from beginning to end, and I never found myself bored or waiting for the plot to move along.
The mystery was probably my favourite part. The twists just kept coming. There were red herrings, new suspicions and reveals that constantly had me second-guessing what I thought I knew. It felt incredibly well thought out, with small details woven into the story that eventually came together in such a satisfying way. By the end, all of my questions had been answered.
Seth and Claire were also fantastic characters. Both had so much depth and history that I genuinely felt like I knew them by the end of the book. Their pasts added real emotional weight to the story, while the more sinister characters brought a genuinely unsettling edge.
The atmosphere was dark, gritty, eerie and suspenseful, with some heavier themes handled thoughtfully rather than simply being used for shock value.
I usually connect more easily with first-person narration, but the third-person writing here completely pulled me in. This story had me firmly in its grasp until the final page.
The romance is definitely on the subtler side. The yearning and tension are there, but the actual spice is very low and intimacy is fade-to-black. Because this is marketed as a romantic thriller, I would have liked a little more romantic payoff, but that's genuinely my only real criticism.
The thriller itself is so strong, clever and intricately put together that I was completely satisfied when I finished.
If you enjoy murder mysteries packed with twists, detailed character backstories, sinister small-town secrets and plenty of yearning alongside the darkness, I definitely recommend this one.
⚠️ Content warnings include: drug use/addiction, overdose, childhood/family abuse and trauma, murder, violence, blood/gore, grief/loss and sensitive themes.
Fairview might be a small town, but there is absolutely nothing small about the secrets buried there.
Nowhere Good was a brilliant read. I went in expecting a dark romantic thriller filled with murder, mystery, complicated histories and small-town secrets, and it delivered on every one of those elements.
There is a lot happening throughout this story, but it never felt overcrowded. Everything was given the detail it needed, the pacing stayed strong from beginning to end, and I never found myself bored or waiting for the plot to move along.
The mystery was probably my favourite part. The twists just kept coming. There were red herrings, new suspicions and reveals that constantly had me second-guessing what I thought I knew. It felt incredibly well thought out, with small details woven into the story that eventually came together in such a satisfying way. By the end, all of my questions had been answered.
Seth and Claire were also fantastic characters. Both had so much depth and history that I genuinely felt like I knew them by the end of the book. Their pasts added real emotional weight to the story, while the more sinister characters brought a genuinely unsettling edge.
The atmosphere was dark, gritty, eerie and suspenseful, with some heavier themes handled thoughtfully rather than simply being used for shock value.
I usually connect more easily with first-person narration, but the third-person writing here completely pulled me in. This story had me firmly in its grasp until the final page.
The romance is definitely on the subtler side. The yearning and tension are there, but the actual spice is very low and intimacy is fade-to-black. Because this is marketed as a romantic thriller, I would have liked a little more romantic payoff, but that's genuinely my only real criticism.
The thriller itself is so strong, clever and intricately put together that I was completely satisfied when I finished.
If you enjoy murder mysteries packed with twists, detailed character backstories, sinister small-town secrets and plenty of yearning alongside the darkness, I definitely recommend this one.
⚠️ Content warnings include: drug use/addiction, overdose, childhood/family abuse and trauma, murder, violence, blood/gore, grief/loss and sensitive themes.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I love a mystery that makes me think I have everything figured out, only to turn around and completely change my perspective. And Nowhere Good absolutely delivered that for me. 🔥
The beginning took a little time to settle into because there are quite a few characters, relationships, and storylines being introduced. I definitely had to pay attention and keep track of everything—but once the pieces started falling into place, I was HOOKED.
Claire was such a compelling character, and I found myself rooting for her right from the beginning. Her situation is already complicated enough—being the daughter of a man she suspects is behind the town's opioid crisis—but then a woman who looks eerily like Claire is murdered with a terrifying message carved into her skin.
Ummm… excuse me?! 😳
And then more women who resemble Claire start turning up.
That mystery kept me guessing the entire time. Every time I thought I had finally connected the dots, something else happened and completely changed my perspective. 👀 I LOVE when a thriller can actually keep me on my toes instead of letting me solve the whole thing halfway through.
The pacing really picked up in the second half, and that's when I hit the “just one more chapter” zone… you know, the lie we tell ourselves at 11 PM when we absolutely should be sleeping. 😂📖
I also really loved the balance between the suspense and the emotional side of the story. Neither one completely overshadowed the other, which made everything feel more engaging and gave the characters room to breathe amidst all the twists and tension.
✨ If you love:
🖤 Gritty romantic thrillers
🔎 Twisty mysteries
🖤 Small-town secrets
🔎 Suspense that keeps you guessing
🖤 Complicated family dynamics
🔎 A strong, compelling heroine
🖤 Romance woven into a darker storyline
…you are going to want this one on your radar!
Nowhere Good had me suspicious of basically everyone by the end, and honestly? That's exactly what I want from a thriller. 😂🖤
⭐️ 5/5 stars
📖 383 pages
📅 Expected publication: September 24, 2026
If you enjoy thrillers that make you question what you think you know, definitely add this one to your TBR. 🖤✨
The beginning took a little time to settle into because there are quite a few characters, relationships, and storylines being introduced. I definitely had to pay attention and keep track of everything—but once the pieces started falling into place, I was HOOKED.
Claire was such a compelling character, and I found myself rooting for her right from the beginning. Her situation is already complicated enough—being the daughter of a man she suspects is behind the town's opioid crisis—but then a woman who looks eerily like Claire is murdered with a terrifying message carved into her skin.
Ummm… excuse me?! 😳
And then more women who resemble Claire start turning up.
That mystery kept me guessing the entire time. Every time I thought I had finally connected the dots, something else happened and completely changed my perspective. 👀 I LOVE when a thriller can actually keep me on my toes instead of letting me solve the whole thing halfway through.
The pacing really picked up in the second half, and that's when I hit the “just one more chapter” zone… you know, the lie we tell ourselves at 11 PM when we absolutely should be sleeping. 😂📖
I also really loved the balance between the suspense and the emotional side of the story. Neither one completely overshadowed the other, which made everything feel more engaging and gave the characters room to breathe amidst all the twists and tension.
✨ If you love:
🖤 Gritty romantic thrillers
🔎 Twisty mysteries
🖤 Small-town secrets
🔎 Suspense that keeps you guessing
🖤 Complicated family dynamics
🔎 A strong, compelling heroine
🖤 Romance woven into a darker storyline
…you are going to want this one on your radar!
Nowhere Good had me suspicious of basically everyone by the end, and honestly? That's exactly what I want from a thriller. 😂🖤
⭐️ 5/5 stars
📖 383 pages
📅 Expected publication: September 24, 2026
If you enjoy thrillers that make you question what you think you know, definitely add this one to your TBR. 🖤✨
Review of advance copy received from Author
OH. MY. GOD.
I absolutely LOVED this book!!! I cannot wait for the sequel to come out.
Mindhunter meets slow burn romance!? This book was EVERYTHING AND MORE. It far exceeded my expectations, I knew I’d enjoy reading it but holy hell, I LOVED IT. It’s 1:44am and it’s the third consecutive night that I’ve stayed up late because I simply couldn’t put the damn thing down!
The characters were all phenomenally crafted, so much substance to each of their stories! I am just blown away by this, honestly. The story was gripping, I loved the MMC and FMC, and again the amount of depth to the characters was just incredibly executed. The portrayal of the impact of abuse was done so well and spot-on, not just on an individual but also down to the family dynamics as a whole.
A slow-burn romantic thriller featuring a city boy detective and a small-town witness with a serial killer on the loose in Missouri.
•
Claire Dyer knows what kind of man her father is. The rest of Fairview, Missouri sees him as a pillar of the community but Claire suspects he’s the one feeding the town’s opioid crisis. She’s just been too afraid to speak up after what happened last time she tried to run. So she plays the good girl; she bartends at the family’s bar, dates who she’s told to date, and keeps her head down...
Until an addict is found murdered in town with the words “IT SHOULD HAVE BEEN ME” carved into her skin.
The victim looks just like Claire. It’s the first thing Detective Seth Winslow notices when he arrives from Kansas City to take over the case. As the youngest man on the force, battling his own history with addiction, he’s determined to solve this crime quickly and quietly.
But the killer has other plans. As more girls resembling Claire are killed, the investigation keeps leading Seth to the Dyers’ doorstep and to Claire. She’s his best witness, but the closer he gets, the more the line between protecting her and wanting her starts to blur. Claire is desperate to trust this new detective, but doing so would mean the one thing she swore she’d never do: betray her family.
I absolutely LOVED this book!!! I cannot wait for the sequel to come out.
Mindhunter meets slow burn romance!? This book was EVERYTHING AND MORE. It far exceeded my expectations, I knew I’d enjoy reading it but holy hell, I LOVED IT. It’s 1:44am and it’s the third consecutive night that I’ve stayed up late because I simply couldn’t put the damn thing down!
The characters were all phenomenally crafted, so much substance to each of their stories! I am just blown away by this, honestly. The story was gripping, I loved the MMC and FMC, and again the amount of depth to the characters was just incredibly executed. The portrayal of the impact of abuse was done so well and spot-on, not just on an individual but also down to the family dynamics as a whole.
A slow-burn romantic thriller featuring a city boy detective and a small-town witness with a serial killer on the loose in Missouri.
•
Claire Dyer knows what kind of man her father is. The rest of Fairview, Missouri sees him as a pillar of the community but Claire suspects he’s the one feeding the town’s opioid crisis. She’s just been too afraid to speak up after what happened last time she tried to run. So she plays the good girl; she bartends at the family’s bar, dates who she’s told to date, and keeps her head down...
Until an addict is found murdered in town with the words “IT SHOULD HAVE BEEN ME” carved into her skin.
The victim looks just like Claire. It’s the first thing Detective Seth Winslow notices when he arrives from Kansas City to take over the case. As the youngest man on the force, battling his own history with addiction, he’s determined to solve this crime quickly and quietly.
But the killer has other plans. As more girls resembling Claire are killed, the investigation keeps leading Seth to the Dyers’ doorstep and to Claire. She’s his best witness, but the closer he gets, the more the line between protecting her and wanting her starts to blur. Claire is desperate to trust this new detective, but doing so would mean the one thing she swore she’d never do: betray her family.
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
What a brilliant debut! From the very first chapter, I felt like I was watching an incredibly intense crime drama rather than reading a novel. The writing is so cinematic that every chase, discovery, and confrontation played out vividly in my mind.
🌶️ 1/5 - Although this is marketed as a romantic thriller, I’d say it’s 90% thriller and 10% romance (+one spice scene) and I actually loved that! ❤️🔥 The romance is very good and never overshadows the story instead, it enhances it in the best possible way. I hope readers don’t overlook this book because of the genre label and could deeply appreciate how well written it is on thriller side.
“She looked perfect to him. If Seth had a girl like her at home, he’d never want to stop reminding her how pretty she was in his eyes. No, not a girl like her. Her.”
🔍 5/5 - The suspense is excellent, the pacing is addictive and the journey is so gripping that you won’t want to put it down. The atmosphere throughout is incredible, and the small-town setting adds so much tension and depth.
Book explores so many different angles, including psychological and emotional abuse (handled it with sensitivity and realism), and I was just pressing my palm to my mouth so many times because…wow….
“You don’t have to tell me,” Seth said. “I just want you to know that I’m on your side. Whatever it is, I’ll believe you.”
💛 4/5 - The romance is beautifully written because it’s built on trust, patience, and genuine emotional connection rather than instant physical attraction. The MMC is intelligent, kind, and quietly supportive, while the FMC feels incredibly real. Their relationship develop naturally and this is exactly what this book needed👌🏻
“He couldn’t imagine it ever being that good with anyone else. He didn’t want to find out.”
This was one of those books that completely pulled me in and made me forget I was even reading.
An outstanding debut, and I can’t wait for the second book!!!
What a brilliant debut! From the very first chapter, I felt like I was watching an incredibly intense crime drama rather than reading a novel. The writing is so cinematic that every chase, discovery, and confrontation played out vividly in my mind.
🌶️ 1/5 - Although this is marketed as a romantic thriller, I’d say it’s 90% thriller and 10% romance (+one spice scene) and I actually loved that! ❤️🔥 The romance is very good and never overshadows the story instead, it enhances it in the best possible way. I hope readers don’t overlook this book because of the genre label and could deeply appreciate how well written it is on thriller side.
“She looked perfect to him. If Seth had a girl like her at home, he’d never want to stop reminding her how pretty she was in his eyes. No, not a girl like her. Her.”
🔍 5/5 - The suspense is excellent, the pacing is addictive and the journey is so gripping that you won’t want to put it down. The atmosphere throughout is incredible, and the small-town setting adds so much tension and depth.
Book explores so many different angles, including psychological and emotional abuse (handled it with sensitivity and realism), and I was just pressing my palm to my mouth so many times because…wow….
“You don’t have to tell me,” Seth said. “I just want you to know that I’m on your side. Whatever it is, I’ll believe you.”
💛 4/5 - The romance is beautifully written because it’s built on trust, patience, and genuine emotional connection rather than instant physical attraction. The MMC is intelligent, kind, and quietly supportive, while the FMC feels incredibly real. Their relationship develop naturally and this is exactly what this book needed👌🏻
“He couldn’t imagine it ever being that good with anyone else. He didn’t want to find out.”
This was one of those books that completely pulled me in and made me forget I was even reading.
An outstanding debut, and I can’t wait for the second book!!!
August 14, 2026
ARC Review
This was my first proper romantic thriller and I genuinely really enjoyed how the two genres worked together. There was something about getting all those little crumbs of romance while also trying to figure out who everyone was, how they fitted together and just how deep the corruption went that completely sucked me in.
Claire and Seth worked really well for me. The romance is a proper slow burn and I loved that it was there bubbling away in the background before really ramping up around the 70–80% mark. Their individual backstories gave them enough depth that I was rooting for them separately as well as together, and the relationship never felt like it was taking away from the actual thriller.
I did guess the general direction of the plot quite early on, but I think that’s partly the curse of reading a lot of thrillers. You start to recognise where things might be heading. What I didn’t have figured out were all the nuances and connections along the way. There were still plenty of little “ohhh, okay!” moments where another piece suddenly clicked into place, as well as a couple of reveals I genuinely didn’t see coming.
The pacing was really good throughout and, even when I thought I knew where we were heading, I never felt like I was just waiting for the book to catch up with me. The corruption storyline was particularly well done and gave the whole thing that slightly unsettling feeling of not quite knowing who could actually be trusted.
I also really liked that it feels like there’s more story to tell. There’s enough left open that I can absolutely see where a sequel could take things, without this feeling unfinished.
Overall, just a really solid, gripping read. It didn’t quite give me that completely rocked, “what the fuck have I just read?” feeling that my absolute favourites do, but I had a bloody good time reading it and I’ll definitely be interested to see where T.J. Ellory takes it next.
This was my first proper romantic thriller and I genuinely really enjoyed how the two genres worked together. There was something about getting all those little crumbs of romance while also trying to figure out who everyone was, how they fitted together and just how deep the corruption went that completely sucked me in.
Claire and Seth worked really well for me. The romance is a proper slow burn and I loved that it was there bubbling away in the background before really ramping up around the 70–80% mark. Their individual backstories gave them enough depth that I was rooting for them separately as well as together, and the relationship never felt like it was taking away from the actual thriller.
I did guess the general direction of the plot quite early on, but I think that’s partly the curse of reading a lot of thrillers. You start to recognise where things might be heading. What I didn’t have figured out were all the nuances and connections along the way. There were still plenty of little “ohhh, okay!” moments where another piece suddenly clicked into place, as well as a couple of reveals I genuinely didn’t see coming.
The pacing was really good throughout and, even when I thought I knew where we were heading, I never felt like I was just waiting for the book to catch up with me. The corruption storyline was particularly well done and gave the whole thing that slightly unsettling feeling of not quite knowing who could actually be trusted.
I also really liked that it feels like there’s more story to tell. There’s enough left open that I can absolutely see where a sequel could take things, without this feeling unfinished.
Overall, just a really solid, gripping read. It didn’t quite give me that completely rocked, “what the fuck have I just read?” feeling that my absolute favourites do, but I had a bloody good time reading it and I’ll definitely be interested to see where T.J. Ellory takes it next.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Book Review: Nowhere Good by T.J. Ellory
Nowhere Good by T.J. Ellory is a “glued to my seat” thriller. As book 1 of the series Winslow & Dyer, the author creates a dark mystery that has some pretty intense themes like drug addiction, serial murder, family abuse and trauma. But these topics are carefully written and not too intense for this reader.
I think the main characters were well described, especially Seth and Claire. Seth is a big city cop assigned to a small town murder case which turns into a serial murder case. But Seth is not a flawless hero. He has a messy, complicated history, but his dedication to turning his life around makes him immediately compelling. What makes him truly believable is that his recovery isn't treated as a quick fix; his ongoing struggle with addiction adds a layer of authentic tension to his investigative work and how he handles the victims.
Claire, has an equally powerful role. She battles with PTSD stemming from her father Ron’s abuse and her fear of Ron is absolutely gut-wrenching.
Ellory handles Claire’s trauma with immense sensitivity, showing her as a resilient woman. I love the gradual, slow-burn growth of trust and romance between Claire and Seth.
There are lots of twists and turns as Seth tries to rule out murder suspects and his growing relationship with Claire clouds his judgement on occasion. The twists and turns involve different suspects and Claire’s dad Ron is the suspect you would want arrested. I would have liked to have understood the character Ron a bit more to understand the history of his character, as he is a terrible person. His treatment of women, especially his family is scary.
Overall, this was a fantastic read and I look forward to book 2.
If you look for certain tropes then you will find: Big City boy and small-town girl relationship, Slow Burn romance, Family Secrets/Never Betray family
Nowhere Good by T.J. Ellory is a “glued to my seat” thriller. As book 1 of the series Winslow & Dyer, the author creates a dark mystery that has some pretty intense themes like drug addiction, serial murder, family abuse and trauma. But these topics are carefully written and not too intense for this reader.
I think the main characters were well described, especially Seth and Claire. Seth is a big city cop assigned to a small town murder case which turns into a serial murder case. But Seth is not a flawless hero. He has a messy, complicated history, but his dedication to turning his life around makes him immediately compelling. What makes him truly believable is that his recovery isn't treated as a quick fix; his ongoing struggle with addiction adds a layer of authentic tension to his investigative work and how he handles the victims.
Claire, has an equally powerful role. She battles with PTSD stemming from her father Ron’s abuse and her fear of Ron is absolutely gut-wrenching.
Ellory handles Claire’s trauma with immense sensitivity, showing her as a resilient woman. I love the gradual, slow-burn growth of trust and romance between Claire and Seth.
There are lots of twists and turns as Seth tries to rule out murder suspects and his growing relationship with Claire clouds his judgement on occasion. The twists and turns involve different suspects and Claire’s dad Ron is the suspect you would want arrested. I would have liked to have understood the character Ron a bit more to understand the history of his character, as he is a terrible person. His treatment of women, especially his family is scary.
Overall, this was a fantastic read and I look forward to book 2.
If you look for certain tropes then you will find: Big City boy and small-town girl relationship, Slow Burn romance, Family Secrets/Never Betray family
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was fortunate enough to get this as an ARC and I am so glad I did!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️.5
Slow Burn
Police Officer MMC
Damsel In Distress FMC (but not annoying)
Small Town Setting
Serial Killer
Family Trauma & Secrets
That opening chapter was INTENSE! I genuinely don’t know how else to explain it without giving away spoilers, but what a way to set the expectations for this book!
This has officially become my new Alex Cross series (and I’ve read all 34 James Patterson books!), and I honestly don’t even know where to begin when it comes to explaining just how good this story is. I’m around 40% in and the twists this book has already taken have been so unexpected.
The FMC, Claire, is a damsel in distress, but she is absolutely not weak. A lot of that comes down to her father and her upbringing, and I really love the way this has shaped her character.
Then there’s MMC Detective Winslow. He has a history, a very dark one - and we’re only just starting to see him relax and let his true personality shine through, especially when he’s with Claire. Their dynamic is SO good, and I’m completely invested in them.
The suspense in the second half of this book had me literally on the edge of my seat, shouting at the book! The tension just kept building and I could not put it down.
And chapter 28/29 aTHE STEAM!!
Then you get to the final few chapters and OH MY GOD - no words!
The twists and turns throughout this entire book were so unexpected. Every time I thought I knew where the story was going, it threw something else at me.
This book had me completely hooked from beginning to end. It was intense, suspenseful, emotional and utterly unpredictable.
This one is going to stay with me for a while. Absolutely phenomenal.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️.5
Slow Burn
Police Officer MMC
Damsel In Distress FMC (but not annoying)
Small Town Setting
Serial Killer
Family Trauma & Secrets
That opening chapter was INTENSE! I genuinely don’t know how else to explain it without giving away spoilers, but what a way to set the expectations for this book!
This has officially become my new Alex Cross series (and I’ve read all 34 James Patterson books!), and I honestly don’t even know where to begin when it comes to explaining just how good this story is. I’m around 40% in and the twists this book has already taken have been so unexpected.
The FMC, Claire, is a damsel in distress, but she is absolutely not weak. A lot of that comes down to her father and her upbringing, and I really love the way this has shaped her character.
Then there’s MMC Detective Winslow. He has a history, a very dark one - and we’re only just starting to see him relax and let his true personality shine through, especially when he’s with Claire. Their dynamic is SO good, and I’m completely invested in them.
The suspense in the second half of this book had me literally on the edge of my seat, shouting at the book! The tension just kept building and I could not put it down.
And chapter 28/29 aTHE STEAM!!
Then you get to the final few chapters and OH MY GOD - no words!
The twists and turns throughout this entire book were so unexpected. Every time I thought I knew where the story was going, it threw something else at me.
This book had me completely hooked from beginning to end. It was intense, suspenseful, emotional and utterly unpredictable.
This one is going to stay with me for a while. Absolutely phenomenal.
Review of advance copy received from Author
🌟Indie 🇨🇦 Author Book Review🌟
*ARC Read*
"Nowhere Good" by T. J. Ellory
A thriller romance debut novel.
Deep in the middle of the Missouri cornfields lurks a serial killer threatening to rip a small town apart. As the story unfolds, family secrets become unveiled, past decisions come home to roost, and love slowly blossoms. The main characters experience a slow burn romance as the mystery surrounding them heats up.
T. J. Ellory knocks it out of the park with this gritty tale of murder, intrigue, and courage. I blazed through this book in one sitting as I could not put it down!
For a debut novel, this story was crafted with precision, creating suspense for both the characters and the world they experience, showing that blood does not always mean family.
An evocative read from the very beginning, showcasing two very human main characters who both face demons from their pasts and conquer them. They grip your mind and stake claim to your emotions. Here's to more of Seth and Claire! 🥂
Release date is September 24, 2026. Run to Amazon and secure your pre-order today! 🏃🏼♀️💨💨
⭐️5/5 The world-building and suspense were excellent. It keeps you hooked without disrupting your sleep at night.
🌶1/5 The spice is minimal, with a slow burn and yearning throughout the book.
🧁4/5 The FMC and MMC are lovely characters who each have overcome a dark past, and find love and acceptance in each other and support each other throughout.
🔍4.5/5 Loved the twists and turns and suspense. Figuring out the "whodunnit" is not overly difficult, but the way the story unfolds has you engrossed in the story, eagerly awaiting the next development.
*ARC Read*
"Nowhere Good" by T. J. Ellory
A thriller romance debut novel.
Deep in the middle of the Missouri cornfields lurks a serial killer threatening to rip a small town apart. As the story unfolds, family secrets become unveiled, past decisions come home to roost, and love slowly blossoms. The main characters experience a slow burn romance as the mystery surrounding them heats up.
T. J. Ellory knocks it out of the park with this gritty tale of murder, intrigue, and courage. I blazed through this book in one sitting as I could not put it down!
For a debut novel, this story was crafted with precision, creating suspense for both the characters and the world they experience, showing that blood does not always mean family.
An evocative read from the very beginning, showcasing two very human main characters who both face demons from their pasts and conquer them. They grip your mind and stake claim to your emotions. Here's to more of Seth and Claire! 🥂
Release date is September 24, 2026. Run to Amazon and secure your pre-order today! 🏃🏼♀️💨💨
⭐️5/5 The world-building and suspense were excellent. It keeps you hooked without disrupting your sleep at night.
🌶1/5 The spice is minimal, with a slow burn and yearning throughout the book.
🧁4/5 The FMC and MMC are lovely characters who each have overcome a dark past, and find love and acceptance in each other and support each other throughout.
🔍4.5/5 Loved the twists and turns and suspense. Figuring out the "whodunnit" is not overly difficult, but the way the story unfolds has you engrossed in the story, eagerly awaiting the next development.
Review of advance copy received from Author
First, thank you to the author for allowing me to be an ARC reader for Nowhere Good.
*Trigger warnings - abuse, drug use, murder*
Detective Seth Winslow, a former NYC resident, is invited to Fairview, MO, where the drug crisis is running rampant and a serial killer is on the loose. Fairview is a close-knit community, and the Dyer family is right at the center of it.
During his investigation, he meets Claire Dyer, a born-and-raised Fairview native, and notices that the victims look strikingly just like her. Claire knows that her father, Ron Dyer, is a criminal but is virtually untouchable. So she does as she's told, stays quiet, and keeps her head down.
But Detective Winslow isn't convinced Ron is just a hard-working family man, and he plans to win Claire's trust and solve this case no matter what.
This book had me HOOKED from start to finish! Seth was such a dynamic character. The chemistry between him and Claire was a (painfully, lol) slow burn but extremely satisfying in the end. Every side character was interesting, even if it was in a bad way. And honestly, Ron Dyer was a damn good villain. He was smug, cunning, and far more intelligent than he was given credit for. Keeping control over so many people for so long and having several resources in his pocket... the man really was evil in the best way.
Not only was there the suspense from the actual case being solved, but the added romance and humor sprinkled in made this such an enjoyable read. And knowing the story will continue?? Sign me up!
Nowhere Good will be available September 24, 2026, anywhere you buy books!
*Trigger warnings - abuse, drug use, murder*
Detective Seth Winslow, a former NYC resident, is invited to Fairview, MO, where the drug crisis is running rampant and a serial killer is on the loose. Fairview is a close-knit community, and the Dyer family is right at the center of it.
During his investigation, he meets Claire Dyer, a born-and-raised Fairview native, and notices that the victims look strikingly just like her. Claire knows that her father, Ron Dyer, is a criminal but is virtually untouchable. So she does as she's told, stays quiet, and keeps her head down.
But Detective Winslow isn't convinced Ron is just a hard-working family man, and he plans to win Claire's trust and solve this case no matter what.
This book had me HOOKED from start to finish! Seth was such a dynamic character. The chemistry between him and Claire was a (painfully, lol) slow burn but extremely satisfying in the end. Every side character was interesting, even if it was in a bad way. And honestly, Ron Dyer was a damn good villain. He was smug, cunning, and far more intelligent than he was given credit for. Keeping control over so many people for so long and having several resources in his pocket... the man really was evil in the best way.
Not only was there the suspense from the actual case being solved, but the added romance and humor sprinkled in made this such an enjoyable read. And knowing the story will continue?? Sign me up!
Nowhere Good will be available September 24, 2026, anywhere you buy books!
Review of advance copy received from Author
"... he felt like he was on the tip of a roller coaster, waiting for it to drop."
That line was my exact physical state for this entire ARC. That heavy-chest feeling of waiting for the floor to be pulled out from under you which reminded me of reading All the Missing Pieces by Catherine Cowles.
Seth and Claire had phenomenal character development. Seth is a big city detective with a dark past and a big heart. Claire is a small town girl with a traumatic past trying to find an escape.
We see how each of their pasts and choices shaped them to the character they are today and the paths they choose. Their stories are connected by a serial killer on the loose and Seth trying to solve the case. Seth doesn't just solve the case he untangles a web of lies and other cases. It showcases how much he begins to care for Claire and at times clouding his professional judgement. But the thing with Seth is he follows his intuition, that gut feeling-I think this is what makes him so good at his job. Claire doesn't want to be saved; she has so much insight into her life and trauma can either make you follow the same path you've always known or make drastic changes to stop the cycle. Seth and Claire are cycle breakers.
She also crafted each of the supporting characters fitting them into the story like a puzzle. The ending still has me shocked and was not anything I expected.
This book carries heavy themes such as sexual assault, drug abuse, family/domestic/child abuse but each theme was carefully crafted and handled with care that did not make it feel overwhelming.
I already look forward to the sequel Underworld.
That line was my exact physical state for this entire ARC. That heavy-chest feeling of waiting for the floor to be pulled out from under you which reminded me of reading All the Missing Pieces by Catherine Cowles.
Seth and Claire had phenomenal character development. Seth is a big city detective with a dark past and a big heart. Claire is a small town girl with a traumatic past trying to find an escape.
We see how each of their pasts and choices shaped them to the character they are today and the paths they choose. Their stories are connected by a serial killer on the loose and Seth trying to solve the case. Seth doesn't just solve the case he untangles a web of lies and other cases. It showcases how much he begins to care for Claire and at times clouding his professional judgement. But the thing with Seth is he follows his intuition, that gut feeling-I think this is what makes him so good at his job. Claire doesn't want to be saved; she has so much insight into her life and trauma can either make you follow the same path you've always known or make drastic changes to stop the cycle. Seth and Claire are cycle breakers.
She also crafted each of the supporting characters fitting them into the story like a puzzle. The ending still has me shocked and was not anything I expected.
This book carries heavy themes such as sexual assault, drug abuse, family/domestic/child abuse but each theme was carefully crafted and handled with care that did not make it feel overwhelming.
I already look forward to the sequel Underworld.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to T.J. Ellory for providing this ARC of Nowhere Good in exchange for my review.
⭐⭐ 4/5 stars ⭐⭐
Right, so I went in expecting Your Standard Thriller™ and came out the other side a bit rattled, in the best way. This is not just your normal thriller, and I say that as someone who has read approximately one billion thrillers at this point.
Seth. SETH. Here's a man whose past has very much not stayed in the past, no matter how hard he's tried to bury it, and watching him wrestle with that gave him this rich vein of humanity that a lot of crime fiction protagonists just don't bother with. It also had me sat there thinking, genuinely, shouldn't there be more support for people in his line of work? More regular check-ins, more therapy, more actual care? I'm not saying sack the man, I'm saying give him a therapist and possibly a lie down before you hand him another case.
And then there's Claire. Oh, Claire. I cannot in good conscience sit here and say "just leave, just run" because with what she grew up with, staying put out of sheer terror makes complete sense. It's the kind of characterisation that makes you furious on someone's behalf rather than at them, which is a much harder thing to pull off than it sounds.
The twists though... I'd guess at something, feel quite smug about it, get the confirmation... and then get absolutely blindsided by the next one. Properly kept me turning pages, which is always the mark of a good one for me.
Given this is Winslow & Dyer #1, I am already thinking about book two. What happens next? I need to know, T.J., and I need to know soon.
⭐⭐ 4/5 stars ⭐⭐
Right, so I went in expecting Your Standard Thriller™ and came out the other side a bit rattled, in the best way. This is not just your normal thriller, and I say that as someone who has read approximately one billion thrillers at this point.
Seth. SETH. Here's a man whose past has very much not stayed in the past, no matter how hard he's tried to bury it, and watching him wrestle with that gave him this rich vein of humanity that a lot of crime fiction protagonists just don't bother with. It also had me sat there thinking, genuinely, shouldn't there be more support for people in his line of work? More regular check-ins, more therapy, more actual care? I'm not saying sack the man, I'm saying give him a therapist and possibly a lie down before you hand him another case.
And then there's Claire. Oh, Claire. I cannot in good conscience sit here and say "just leave, just run" because with what she grew up with, staying put out of sheer terror makes complete sense. It's the kind of characterisation that makes you furious on someone's behalf rather than at them, which is a much harder thing to pull off than it sounds.
The twists though... I'd guess at something, feel quite smug about it, get the confirmation... and then get absolutely blindsided by the next one. Properly kept me turning pages, which is always the mark of a good one for me.
Given this is Winslow & Dyer #1, I am already thinking about book two. What happens next? I need to know, T.J., and I need to know soon.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.75 stars
This was my first ARC, and I’m so happy that I got to start my ARC journey with such a great first book. I started reading this book before I went to bed, with the intentions of getting about halfway through it or so before going to sleep….that did not happen. I read the entire book in one sitting because I just could not put it down. Was I tired when I woke up today? Yes. But was it worth it? Oh absolutely yes.
Our two main characters, Claire and Seth, were both very well written. Both have grown up in their own different hells, but although they still carry their traumas with them, it only pushes them to be more resilient and driven; neither one let their childhood define the ending to their personal stories.
The relationship between them was a slow burn, enough to have you rooting for them, but not enough to take away from the thriller aspect.
As for that, it kept you intrigued the entire time. There were a few small subplots here and there, but not to the point where they felt confusing or just randomly tossed in; instead the storyline was easy to follow, and everything was connected in one way or the other.
Between the storyline, the pacing, the characters, and the writing itself, it’s hard to believe that this is the authors debut novel, but she did an incredible job. I’m so excited to see that there’s going to be a second book, and I’ll be anxiously awaiting for the day that it comes out
A huge thank you to T.J. Ellory for the ARC and the opportunity to give an early review!
This was my first ARC, and I’m so happy that I got to start my ARC journey with such a great first book. I started reading this book before I went to bed, with the intentions of getting about halfway through it or so before going to sleep….that did not happen. I read the entire book in one sitting because I just could not put it down. Was I tired when I woke up today? Yes. But was it worth it? Oh absolutely yes.
Our two main characters, Claire and Seth, were both very well written. Both have grown up in their own different hells, but although they still carry their traumas with them, it only pushes them to be more resilient and driven; neither one let their childhood define the ending to their personal stories.
The relationship between them was a slow burn, enough to have you rooting for them, but not enough to take away from the thriller aspect.
As for that, it kept you intrigued the entire time. There were a few small subplots here and there, but not to the point where they felt confusing or just randomly tossed in; instead the storyline was easy to follow, and everything was connected in one way or the other.
Between the storyline, the pacing, the characters, and the writing itself, it’s hard to believe that this is the authors debut novel, but she did an incredible job. I’m so excited to see that there’s going to be a second book, and I’ll be anxiously awaiting for the day that it comes out
A huge thank you to T.J. Ellory for the ARC and the opportunity to give an early review!
Review of advance copy received from Author
✨ SPOILER FREE ARC REVIEW ✨
A huge thank you to T.J. Ellory for sending me an ARC copy of NOWHERE GOOD in exchange for my honest review! 🤍📚
This book hooked me from the very beginning, and being a Missourian myself made the setting feel especially close to home. I loved being thrown into the story, meeting the characters, and slowly figuring out who was who and what everyone was really about.
Both the FMC and MMC were incredibly well-written. They had depth, complicated pasts, and motivations that shaped the choices they made throughout the story. I especially connected with the idea of carrying a haunted past while still finding a way to keep living your life. Not because I related to their specific histories, but because that feeling of learning to live beyond what has happened to you really resonated with me.
And the villain? 👏 Absolutely fantastic. I hated them with a PASSION, which means the author did exactly what they were supposed to do.
The romance was quite possibly the most painful slow burn of the century, but WOW was it worth the wait. The suspense kept me flying through the chapters because every time I thought I could put the book down, I needed to know what happened next.
Overall, NOWHERE GOOD gave me the perfect mix of thriller, suspense, and slow-burn romance, with characters I actually cared about and a villain I loved to hate. This one definitely kept me invested until the very end.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
NOWHERE GOOD releases September 24, 2026! Add it to your TBR and be ready to grab your copy on release day. 🖤📖
A huge thank you to T.J. Ellory for sending me an ARC copy of NOWHERE GOOD in exchange for my honest review! 🤍📚
This book hooked me from the very beginning, and being a Missourian myself made the setting feel especially close to home. I loved being thrown into the story, meeting the characters, and slowly figuring out who was who and what everyone was really about.
Both the FMC and MMC were incredibly well-written. They had depth, complicated pasts, and motivations that shaped the choices they made throughout the story. I especially connected with the idea of carrying a haunted past while still finding a way to keep living your life. Not because I related to their specific histories, but because that feeling of learning to live beyond what has happened to you really resonated with me.
And the villain? 👏 Absolutely fantastic. I hated them with a PASSION, which means the author did exactly what they were supposed to do.
The romance was quite possibly the most painful slow burn of the century, but WOW was it worth the wait. The suspense kept me flying through the chapters because every time I thought I could put the book down, I needed to know what happened next.
Overall, NOWHERE GOOD gave me the perfect mix of thriller, suspense, and slow-burn romance, with characters I actually cared about and a villain I loved to hate. This one definitely kept me invested until the very end.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
NOWHERE GOOD releases September 24, 2026! Add it to your TBR and be ready to grab your copy on release day. 🖤📖
Review of advance copy received from Author
Disclosure: I received an Advanced Reader Copy from the author. I am voluntarily writing this review.
Pros: Overall, the story was good. It grabbed my attention and drew me in. The MMC had depth, and Marty, the FMC's brother-in-law, showed meaningful character growth. I also liked the setting. If this were a film, I could almost picture it in a sepia tone.
Weaknesses: The biggest weakness for me was the basic grammatical errors. For example, the author used "till" multiple times instead of "until" outside of character-relevant dialogue, and phrases such as "lied in bed" or "laid in bed" were used where "lay in bed" would have been correct. These issues were distracting and took me out of the story.
Secondly, the FMC lacked depth and personality. Her entire character seemed to be based on being "pretty and needing saving." There was also no real twist for me. Rather, the story introduced a possible suspect, and then it turned out to be that person, although not the first suspect presented. The earlier suspects did not make much sense as viable options, so it was not surprising when they were ruled out.
I also felt there was too much going on at once, including the mother's disappearance, the drug ring, and the serial killer plotline. I'm guessing some of this was intended to set up future books. Personally, I think it would have been better to foreshadow the mother's disappearance and the drug ring while focusing more on the killer targeting these women. That would have also allowed more room to develop the FMC's depth and personality.
Pros: Overall, the story was good. It grabbed my attention and drew me in. The MMC had depth, and Marty, the FMC's brother-in-law, showed meaningful character growth. I also liked the setting. If this were a film, I could almost picture it in a sepia tone.
Weaknesses: The biggest weakness for me was the basic grammatical errors. For example, the author used "till" multiple times instead of "until" outside of character-relevant dialogue, and phrases such as "lied in bed" or "laid in bed" were used where "lay in bed" would have been correct. These issues were distracting and took me out of the story.
Secondly, the FMC lacked depth and personality. Her entire character seemed to be based on being "pretty and needing saving." There was also no real twist for me. Rather, the story introduced a possible suspect, and then it turned out to be that person, although not the first suspect presented. The earlier suspects did not make much sense as viable options, so it was not surprising when they were ruled out.
I also felt there was too much going on at once, including the mother's disappearance, the drug ring, and the serial killer plotline. I'm guessing some of this was intended to set up future books. Personally, I think it would have been better to foreshadow the mother's disappearance and the drug ring while focusing more on the killer targeting these women. That would have also allowed more room to develop the FMC's depth and personality.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Summary:
📘Claire’s dad controls Claire and her sisters' lives, including who they date and marry. Claire thinks her dad is also part of a drug ring, but has no proof. She doesn’t investigate because she wants to do as her father says. When a woman is killed, Detective Seth Winslow is called on to investigate. He believes the case is connected to Claire’s family. When more women begin to die, he realizes all of them look like Claire. The more Seth investigates, the more time he spends with Claire. How is Claire connected, and can they trust each other?
My Thoughts:
💭 I don't usually read thrillers with romance, but the plot and book cover grabbed my attention. I am glad I read this book. The mystery surrounding the dead woman was gripping. You also try to understand the dynamics of Claire's family. Is her family connected? Claire is obviously hiding something, and Seth will not let it go. The story is told from Claire and Seth’s point of view. I loved being able to understand each of them. The first eighty percent of this book felt like a mystery, and I was all in. When the mystery of the dead woman wrapped up with a great twist, there was another mystery to resolve. The story delivers even more suspense, and the ending wraps it up really well. If you love mysteries and thrillers with a dash of romance, you will enjoy this book. Both mysteries were amazing, and I didn't see most of it coming, which I loved! I guess I do read thrillers with a bit of romance. I can’t wait for book two!
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book was truly incredible! It kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. The suspense never let up it only intensified the more I read! I’d come up with a theory, convinced I’d figured it out only for another twist to prove me completely wrong.
I absolutely loved learning about Seth’s and Claire’s struggles and backgrounds. Claire’s bravery and Seth’s determination to uncover not just the truth, but the whole truth, made them such compelling characters that I couldn’t wait to read more
The balance between the romance and the thriller elements was really well balanced. Neither overshadowed the other. It wasn’t insta-love, but a gentle slow burn built on compassion, trust, and genuine care rather than pure lust. They became each other’s support system throughout everything they endured, and I found that so refreshing.
The ending nearly had me ripping my hair out! I was absolutely terrified. I don’t think I’ve ever read so quickly while simultaneously trying to remember to breathe!
This author is officially on my auto-buy list. Anything she writes will immediately be added to my TBR.
But that ending though… @authortjellory , we need to have some serious words! I think I need to get my poor heart checked out after that!
Thank you so much to the author for the ARC! I’m so grateful to have had the chance to read this one before release. All opinions are, as always, my own.
This book was truly incredible! It kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. The suspense never let up it only intensified the more I read! I’d come up with a theory, convinced I’d figured it out only for another twist to prove me completely wrong.
I absolutely loved learning about Seth’s and Claire’s struggles and backgrounds. Claire’s bravery and Seth’s determination to uncover not just the truth, but the whole truth, made them such compelling characters that I couldn’t wait to read more
The balance between the romance and the thriller elements was really well balanced. Neither overshadowed the other. It wasn’t insta-love, but a gentle slow burn built on compassion, trust, and genuine care rather than pure lust. They became each other’s support system throughout everything they endured, and I found that so refreshing.
The ending nearly had me ripping my hair out! I was absolutely terrified. I don’t think I’ve ever read so quickly while simultaneously trying to remember to breathe!
This author is officially on my auto-buy list. Anything she writes will immediately be added to my TBR.
But that ending though… @authortjellory , we need to have some serious words! I think I need to get my poor heart checked out after that!
Thank you so much to the author for the ARC! I’m so grateful to have had the chance to read this one before release. All opinions are, as always, my own.
August 8, 2026
I am a such a sucker for suspense/thriller and was really excited to read this one. This genre always has me completely engrossed and pointing fingers at every single character introduced until I know exactly whodunnit from the comfort of my couch like the absolute detective I am (maybe in another life). If you want a book that’s part slow burn part suspense/thriller, this book is definitely for you. This story follows a detective (Seth) who relocates from NY to a small town and gets roped in to taking the lead on a murder case that he is determined to solve. Claire lives in the small town and finds herself caught up in the middle of the case. This small town is riddled with opioid use, buried secrets, corruption, and unchecked power where it definitely doesn’t belong. Seth and Claire both have troubled pasts but each are trying to do the right things. Seth fights an uphill battle from the beginning to solve this case when not too many residents in the town trust outsiders and are solely focused on protecting their own no matter the cost. Is Seth able to solve this case? Does he get the girl? Who is the murderer? Ultimately, it is exactly what I look for in a read. It slowly builds and makes you think all the while holding out hope that everything works out in the end. Highly recommend!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Firstly, thank you so much to T.J. Ellory for trusting me with an ARC of Nowhere Good. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This was my first thriller, and overall I had a really enjoyable time with it. It was easy to read, kept me interested throughout, and I genuinely wanted to keep picking it back up to find out what happened next.
The darker elements of the story were handled well. What Claire was going through was genuinely devastating, and I really felt for her, although I never quite reached the point where I felt seriously worried or scared for the characters. I also found it fairly obvious who the villain was from early on, so the mystery didn't completely keep me guessing.
I enjoyed the romance more than I expected. It felt much more romantic than steamy, which worked really well for me, and I particularly loved seeing the FMC make the first move for a change!
The ending was probably one of the strongest parts. It was suitably dramatic while still giving the reader a satisfying conclusion, which left me feeling really positive when I finished.
Overall, I don't think this necessarily converted me into a thriller obsessive, but it was a solid, engaging and easy-to-read story with darker themes, a touch of romance and a satisfying ending. 3.5 stars from me. If TJ decides to write a sequel I would defintely pick it up.
On storygraph I have rated this a 3.5
This was my first thriller, and overall I had a really enjoyable time with it. It was easy to read, kept me interested throughout, and I genuinely wanted to keep picking it back up to find out what happened next.
The darker elements of the story were handled well. What Claire was going through was genuinely devastating, and I really felt for her, although I never quite reached the point where I felt seriously worried or scared for the characters. I also found it fairly obvious who the villain was from early on, so the mystery didn't completely keep me guessing.
I enjoyed the romance more than I expected. It felt much more romantic than steamy, which worked really well for me, and I particularly loved seeing the FMC make the first move for a change!
The ending was probably one of the strongest parts. It was suitably dramatic while still giving the reader a satisfying conclusion, which left me feeling really positive when I finished.
Overall, I don't think this necessarily converted me into a thriller obsessive, but it was a solid, engaging and easy-to-read story with darker themes, a touch of romance and a satisfying ending. 3.5 stars from me. If TJ decides to write a sequel I would defintely pick it up.
On storygraph I have rated this a 3.5
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was not expecting to be so consumed by this book. I was literally sucked in from the first page, trying to solve all the crimes and mysteries.
My go-to genre is romantasy, so when I was given the ARC for a crime/mystery thriller, I didn't know how I would like it.
The way T.J. Ellory wrote this novel had me completely immerse in the book. It kept me constantly thinking and trying to solve all the different angles and theories!
I have never read something where I felt so connected to the characters from the book that it felt like I was in the book!
I loved all the twists and turns in this story. It had me constantly thinking about the next possible theories and how they would play out.
I LOVED the MMC Seth! His back story of how and why he got into law enforcement made me feel so much for him. I love knowing who he was before and who he ended up being!
The FMC also got me! Her back story is....well, you'll have to read for yourself to fully understand. No matter how horrible things got, she never kept fighting for what she knew was right! I loved that so much!
A book that can suck you in and completely immerse you in that world and have you feel so connected to all the characters deserves a 5⭐️ rating!
Thanks for giving me the opportunity to be a part of the ARC team!
Rating: 5 ⭐️
Spice: very minimal. Just a small bite of a chili 🌶 😆
My go-to genre is romantasy, so when I was given the ARC for a crime/mystery thriller, I didn't know how I would like it.
The way T.J. Ellory wrote this novel had me completely immerse in the book. It kept me constantly thinking and trying to solve all the different angles and theories!
I have never read something where I felt so connected to the characters from the book that it felt like I was in the book!
I loved all the twists and turns in this story. It had me constantly thinking about the next possible theories and how they would play out.
I LOVED the MMC Seth! His back story of how and why he got into law enforcement made me feel so much for him. I love knowing who he was before and who he ended up being!
The FMC also got me! Her back story is....well, you'll have to read for yourself to fully understand. No matter how horrible things got, she never kept fighting for what she knew was right! I loved that so much!
A book that can suck you in and completely immerse you in that world and have you feel so connected to all the characters deserves a 5⭐️ rating!
Thanks for giving me the opportunity to be a part of the ARC team!
Rating: 5 ⭐️
Spice: very minimal. Just a small bite of a chili 🌶 😆
August 30, 2026
Nowhere Good is a taut, atmospheric thriller that thrives on tension you can feel in your chest. T.J. Ellory has a gift for crafting characters who are flawed in ways that matter—people who make choices that ripple through the story with real emotional weight. What begins as a slow burn quickly sharpens into a gripping, character‑driven mystery that refuses to let you drift; every chapter tightens the net.
Ellory’s prose is clean, confident, and quietly unsettling. The world of Nowhere Good feels lived‑in—small details, sharp observations, and a steady undercurrent of dread that builds without ever tipping into melodrama. The relationships are especially well‑drawn: complicated, bruised, and believable. You’re not just watching the characters navigate danger; you’re watching them navigate themselves.
The pacing is one of the novel’s strongest assets. Ellory knows exactly when to linger and when to strike, weaving tension through quiet moments and letting revelations land with impact. By the final third, the story moves with a momentum that’s both thrilling and emotionally satisfying.
I received an ARC directly from the author, and I’m genuinely glad I did. Nowhere Good is smart, atmospheric, and deeply human—a thriller that doesn’t just entertain but resonates. It’s the kind of book you finish and immediately want to talk about.
Ellory’s prose is clean, confident, and quietly unsettling. The world of Nowhere Good feels lived‑in—small details, sharp observations, and a steady undercurrent of dread that builds without ever tipping into melodrama. The relationships are especially well‑drawn: complicated, bruised, and believable. You’re not just watching the characters navigate danger; you’re watching them navigate themselves.
The pacing is one of the novel’s strongest assets. Ellory knows exactly when to linger and when to strike, weaving tension through quiet moments and letting revelations land with impact. By the final third, the story moves with a momentum that’s both thrilling and emotionally satisfying.
I received an ARC directly from the author, and I’m genuinely glad I did. Nowhere Good is smart, atmospheric, and deeply human—a thriller that doesn’t just entertain but resonates. It’s the kind of book you finish and immediately want to talk about.
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