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Silent Observers
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Expected 10 Nov 26Five houses. One locked gate. A murder no one could have committed.
Claire Whittaker is found stabbed in her own rose garden at dawn, and no one saw a thing. Her neighbors were sleeping. The gate never opened all night.
December 1998. In the cliffside community of Narcissa, where the houses face inward and the residents pretend not to notice each other, Lieutenant John Coxen calls in the one person who might see what everyone else cannot.
Retired detective Athena Campbell was once known nationally as the Red Swan, a name she has spent decades trying to escape. Coming back means facing the spotlight she left the force to avoid, mentoring a young detective who does not want her help, and walking into a neighborhood where every door hides something worth killing to protect.
As winter rain sweeps in from the Pacific, Athena realizes the truth did not die with Claire but has been hiding in plain sight, waiting for her to look in the right direction.
An atmospheric whodunit. The first in the Athena Campbell series.
Claire Whittaker is found stabbed in her own rose garden at dawn, and no one saw a thing. Her neighbors were sleeping. The gate never opened all night.
December 1998. In the cliffside community of Narcissa, where the houses face inward and the residents pretend not to notice each other, Lieutenant John Coxen calls in the one person who might see what everyone else cannot.
Retired detective Athena Campbell was once known nationally as the Red Swan, a name she has spent decades trying to escape. Coming back means facing the spotlight she left the force to avoid, mentoring a young detective who does not want her help, and walking into a neighborhood where every door hides something worth killing to protect.
As winter rain sweeps in from the Pacific, Athena realizes the truth did not die with Claire but has been hiding in plain sight, waiting for her to look in the right direction.
An atmospheric whodunit. The first in the Athena Campbell series.
271 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication November 10, 2026
About the author
Clarissa Verne
1 book15 followersClarissa Verne writes mysteries drawn from her career within the criminal justice system, where she works closely with the families of homicide victims and the survivors of other violent crimes. That work is the foundation of her fiction, particularly her refusal to sensationalize violence or the pain it leaves behind.
She lives with her family and can usually be found folding paper swans when she cannot solve her current plot problem.
She lives with her family and can usually be found folding paper swans when she cannot solve her current plot problem.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
September 20, 2026
Thank you to BookSirens and the author Clarissa Verne for my ARC of this book.
The book starts with the violent murder of Claire Whittaker in a private gated community. We then follow the detectives as they try to solve the murder. Detective Patrick Craft is joined by retired detective Athena Campbell, who is brought back as a consultant. The two detectives, who both have their own trauma, don’t get on to start with but eventually work well together.
The story is told through several storylines which link together well. This is an easy read with short chapters and several plot twists. It kept me guessing right up until the end and I definitely hadn’t worked out the identity of the murderer.
I wanted a little bit more from the ending and the murderer, but overall I really enjoyed this book. Athena Campbell is a good lead character and I hope she continues to interrupt her retirement!
The book starts with the violent murder of Claire Whittaker in a private gated community. We then follow the detectives as they try to solve the murder. Detective Patrick Craft is joined by retired detective Athena Campbell, who is brought back as a consultant. The two detectives, who both have their own trauma, don’t get on to start with but eventually work well together.
The story is told through several storylines which link together well. This is an easy read with short chapters and several plot twists. It kept me guessing right up until the end and I definitely hadn’t worked out the identity of the murderer.
I wanted a little bit more from the ending and the murderer, but overall I really enjoyed this book. Athena Campbell is a good lead character and I hope she continues to interrupt her retirement!
Review of advance copy received from Author
My first ever ARC read and what a brilliant start to it.
I was hooked from the prologue of the book.
Clair Whittaker lives in a gated community of Narcissa with only 5 houses, and each one continues a neighbour with a different story who all have different stories and are all a little bit, shall we say, odd.
To me this wasn't your stereotypical murder mystery, although that was the main part of it, it was also about figuring out who our main character was and the story she was hiding behind. Athena Campbell was a once renowned detective who retired many years ago and some part of the story is you trying to work out what happened to her and why she retired. The murder mystery side of things was also intriguing to me because the way that Athena was working alongside Patrick and figuring out who was the one guilty of the murder was very clever.
The gated community aspect was also interesting because it made me question every neighbours intention and what it was they were possibly hiding - each one of them had something unusual about them and made me question every intention that each one had.
The roses side of things were also intriguing, I thought that this part of the investigation was cleverly written and well thought out. The origami swans that Athena did also was interesting to me, too.
The only reason that I knocked a star off was I wanted a bit more of Athena's backstory, this could be coming in future books (hopefully) but I would have liked to know a bit more about what happened to her, why the man who was writing to her did what he did and how he was able to communicate with her.
Overall though, for my first ARC read and I am very impressed.
I was hooked from the prologue of the book.
Clair Whittaker lives in a gated community of Narcissa with only 5 houses, and each one continues a neighbour with a different story who all have different stories and are all a little bit, shall we say, odd.
To me this wasn't your stereotypical murder mystery, although that was the main part of it, it was also about figuring out who our main character was and the story she was hiding behind. Athena Campbell was a once renowned detective who retired many years ago and some part of the story is you trying to work out what happened to her and why she retired. The murder mystery side of things was also intriguing to me because the way that Athena was working alongside Patrick and figuring out who was the one guilty of the murder was very clever.
The gated community aspect was also interesting because it made me question every neighbours intention and what it was they were possibly hiding - each one of them had something unusual about them and made me question every intention that each one had.
The roses side of things were also intriguing, I thought that this part of the investigation was cleverly written and well thought out. The origami swans that Athena did also was interesting to me, too.
The only reason that I knocked a star off was I wanted a bit more of Athena's backstory, this could be coming in future books (hopefully) but I would have liked to know a bit more about what happened to her, why the man who was writing to her did what he did and how he was able to communicate with her.
Overall though, for my first ARC read and I am very impressed.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A gated community. A murder in a rose bed.
No one came in or out and no one heard anything so it can only be one of the neighbours. But which one?
The author analyses each person living in this ‘close’ community. They have their disagreements. They all appear to have liked the victim Claire Whittaker, yet in the early hours someone took garden shears to her and chopped more than her roses down. Roses featured a lot in this story making it quirky and lighthearted.
The author uses a lot of descriptive words for the characters eyes, some I didn’t feel made sense.
There are moments between the retired detective Athena Campbell brought in to help her colleague Patrick unravel this baffling case that confused me. Such as when she arrives early unannounced on Patricks doorstep, begrudgingly he lets her in and tells her to make herself at home whilst he gets ready but later calls her snooping when she asks about his brother on a photo? Surely photos aren’t snooping if they are on display. Patrick's mood was never addressed, which I was hoping it would be.
When they go to see a suspect at 7 am and find him dressed in a button down shirt and dress pants, unless he slept in them of which there was no mention I found this odd attire for that time in a morning.
That all said I loved the plot and the myriad of different characters. It kept me guessing as to who the murderer was and that was a complete surprise..
Thank you to the author for allowing me an early copy. I look forward to reading more of your books.
No one came in or out and no one heard anything so it can only be one of the neighbours. But which one?
The author analyses each person living in this ‘close’ community. They have their disagreements. They all appear to have liked the victim Claire Whittaker, yet in the early hours someone took garden shears to her and chopped more than her roses down. Roses featured a lot in this story making it quirky and lighthearted.
The author uses a lot of descriptive words for the characters eyes, some I didn’t feel made sense.
There are moments between the retired detective Athena Campbell brought in to help her colleague Patrick unravel this baffling case that confused me. Such as when she arrives early unannounced on Patricks doorstep, begrudgingly he lets her in and tells her to make herself at home whilst he gets ready but later calls her snooping when she asks about his brother on a photo? Surely photos aren’t snooping if they are on display. Patrick's mood was never addressed, which I was hoping it would be.
When they go to see a suspect at 7 am and find him dressed in a button down shirt and dress pants, unless he slept in them of which there was no mention I found this odd attire for that time in a morning.
That all said I loved the plot and the myriad of different characters. It kept me guessing as to who the murderer was and that was a complete surprise..
Thank you to the author for allowing me an early copy. I look forward to reading more of your books.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was definitely different than previous murder mysteries I’ve read before. It’s not action packed, but purposely slower paced that fits with the secluded neighborhood.
When it comes to the two main characters, I didn’t particularly like or dislike either one. They are written in a very realistic human way, which I can appreciate. We get little bits and pieces of Athena’s past, so the murder isn’t the only mystery! I hope to see future stories of her time as a detective.
While one part of the mystery was obvious to me, I was certainly surprised in the end. I couldn’t figure out who was guilty, as they all put out weird secretive vibes. And as I write this review, I realize that the characters aren’t quite fleshed out because detectives don’t get the whole story all the time when investigating, so we are in the dark as much as they are.
Overall, the story kept me hooked and I enjoyed reading it!
When it comes to the two main characters, I didn’t particularly like or dislike either one. They are written in a very realistic human way, which I can appreciate. We get little bits and pieces of Athena’s past, so the murder isn’t the only mystery! I hope to see future stories of her time as a detective.
While one part of the mystery was obvious to me, I was certainly surprised in the end. I couldn’t figure out who was guilty, as they all put out weird secretive vibes. And as I write this review, I realize that the characters aren’t quite fleshed out because detectives don’t get the whole story all the time when investigating, so we are in the dark as much as they are.
Overall, the story kept me hooked and I enjoyed reading it!
Review of advance copy
Silent Observers. Fantastic!
Athena comes to town by request to investigate a death in a closed community alongside local detective, Patrick.
The beginning of this book has a lot of characters to meet and it took me a few tries to try and get it straight, but after abandoning all attempts at that, I just sat back for the ride and enjoyed.
Beautiful storytelling. There are so many interpersonal dynamics that pull you in and make you suspect everyone. Athena has a backstory that's gripping and heartbreaking which you briefly get alongside this one. I need an entire series dedicated to her. So grateful for this opportunity! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Athena comes to town by request to investigate a death in a closed community alongside local detective, Patrick.
The beginning of this book has a lot of characters to meet and it took me a few tries to try and get it straight, but after abandoning all attempts at that, I just sat back for the ride and enjoyed.
Beautiful storytelling. There are so many interpersonal dynamics that pull you in and make you suspect everyone. Athena has a backstory that's gripping and heartbreaking which you briefly get alongside this one. I need an entire series dedicated to her. So grateful for this opportunity! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 17, 2026
Narcissa is a very private gated community of 5 houses. When Claire, a resident of Narcissa dies under mysterious circumstances, it is up to Patrick and Athena to solve the mystery. Athena (a local celebrity detective due to unfortunate circumstances) has not done any detective work in 30 years since retiring but was called back to “consult” on this case. Can she solve it? All neighbors are suspects. The more interrogations that happen, the more the stories become intertwined but there seems to be a piece missing. Each neighbor has an alibi or tail on how they know each other (or don’t) and what they were doing leading up to the murder that makes you wonder if this killer can be caught. It’s a slow build mystery that keeps you guessing. Once the pieces fall into place, Athena lays out the events leading up to Claire’s death and an arrest is made. I love the main character Athena. She is matter of fact, methodical, takes charge, and stands up for herself. She’s the perfect FMC detective. I even began to understand her partner’s actions towards the end because he had kept her at arms length most of the book. Overall, highly recommend.
Read
August 23, 2026A brutal murder on a small cul-de-sac is a great setting for a riveting whodunit! The complex and engaging plot about finding a killer in a tight-knit community where everyone is a suspect and nobody is talking. Add to the mix, Athena, a consulting detective with great intuition and a backstory that gets everyone’s attention. Her fame and intuition rub her new partner the wrong way, which adds more tension to the task of finding the killer. It’s a good read, but with all the cul-de-sac neighbors as suspects, it was somewhat difficult to ferret out which one was the killer. Overall, a fun and interesting read. If you like a whodunit, this is one to pick up!
I received an advance review copy of this book, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy of this book, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I enjoy a good murder mystery, and Silent Observers definitely delivered!
The story follows Athena Campbell, a well-known investigator who is brought in as a consultant on a murder case. However, Athena has a traumatic past of her own, which adds another layer to her character and the story.
I really enjoyed Athena as a character. She was observant, knew how to read people, and asked the right questions. Her ability to pick up on details made her an interesting investigator to follow. There were moments when I found myself a little confused by certain aspects of the story, but as things progressed, everything started to make more sense.
I also enjoyed the supporting characters, especially the suspects. They were all interesting in their own ways, and I was eager to learn more about their possible motives. Everyone seemed to have something going on, which made trying to solve the mystery even more entertaining. And Andrew? What a jerk! 😂
Patrick, the lead detective, was another interesting character. I sometimes questioned his attitude toward Athena, but we briefly learn that he's carrying some personal struggles of his own. I'm curious to see how their working relationship develops throughout the series.
The pacing was steady, and I found myself invested in figuring out who committed the murder. The author was definitely dropping hints throughout the story, and I was paying attention! There was one particular detail that kept coming up, and I remember thinking, "I bet this is important!" I was trying to piece everything together, but the final twist still caught me off guard. I love when a mystery manages to surprise me!
One little detail I especially appreciated was that every chapter had its own title! I feel like authors don't do that much anymore, and it was such a nice touch.
Also, since the story takes place around Christmas, I think this would make a great holiday-season mystery read! 🎄
Overall, I would classify this more as a whodunit murder mystery than a thriller. I enjoyed following the clues, learning about the suspects and their possible motives, and trying to solve the case alongside Athena. I'm definitely interested in continuing the Athena Campbell Mystery series!
Thank you to Clarissa Verne and her ARC Team for providing me with an advance reader copy of Silent Observers in exchange for an honest review.
The story follows Athena Campbell, a well-known investigator who is brought in as a consultant on a murder case. However, Athena has a traumatic past of her own, which adds another layer to her character and the story.
I really enjoyed Athena as a character. She was observant, knew how to read people, and asked the right questions. Her ability to pick up on details made her an interesting investigator to follow. There were moments when I found myself a little confused by certain aspects of the story, but as things progressed, everything started to make more sense.
I also enjoyed the supporting characters, especially the suspects. They were all interesting in their own ways, and I was eager to learn more about their possible motives. Everyone seemed to have something going on, which made trying to solve the mystery even more entertaining. And Andrew? What a jerk! 😂
Patrick, the lead detective, was another interesting character. I sometimes questioned his attitude toward Athena, but we briefly learn that he's carrying some personal struggles of his own. I'm curious to see how their working relationship develops throughout the series.
The pacing was steady, and I found myself invested in figuring out who committed the murder. The author was definitely dropping hints throughout the story, and I was paying attention! There was one particular detail that kept coming up, and I remember thinking, "I bet this is important!" I was trying to piece everything together, but the final twist still caught me off guard. I love when a mystery manages to surprise me!
One little detail I especially appreciated was that every chapter had its own title! I feel like authors don't do that much anymore, and it was such a nice touch.
Also, since the story takes place around Christmas, I think this would make a great holiday-season mystery read! 🎄
Overall, I would classify this more as a whodunit murder mystery than a thriller. I enjoyed following the clues, learning about the suspects and their possible motives, and trying to solve the case alongside Athena. I'm definitely interested in continuing the Athena Campbell Mystery series!
Thank you to Clarissa Verne and her ARC Team for providing me with an advance reader copy of Silent Observers in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was provided early addition of the book through BookSirens, and let me just say wow, this was a fantastic read. It's got all the good mystery twists and the whodunit with a Law-and-Order Vibe.
In a gated cliffside neighborhood Claire Whittaker was killed. She was asked to meet someone in the early morning hour of 5:00 AM in her secret meeting spot, her rose garden. She slipped out the door quietly as to not wake her husband. There near the roses the dark figure appears, her shears are ripped from her as a hand clasps her mouth to prevent any screams, Claire is stabbed and shoved under her beloved rose bush and left to die. All her neighbors claim to have been asleep during her murder.
As Retired Detective Athena Campbell is called to help mentor a young detective that does not want her help. Athena gets quite a bit of attention as she works with Patrick to solve Claire’s murder. All the extra attention surrounds her case as the Red Swan. None of which is helpful and neither are the neighbors that claim to have loved Claire and her generosity.
Athena knows very quickly and all too well that someone in the quaint little neighborhood is hiding something. They all claim to never really talk amongst each other, yet there are clues that say otherwise. It's the little things that help solve the murder.
The answers that Athena and Patrick are looking for are right in front of them and soon see the darkness the Narcissa Neighborhood hides.
I feel that this book was great overall I really enjoyed the detective work and the way the weird details of the main detective. The twist at the end was perfect. Just when I thought I knew who, what, when where and why, I was wrong. The way the detectives uncovered the truth was a crazy twist. I recommend this to those that love a good twisty whodunit murder mystery.
In a gated cliffside neighborhood Claire Whittaker was killed. She was asked to meet someone in the early morning hour of 5:00 AM in her secret meeting spot, her rose garden. She slipped out the door quietly as to not wake her husband. There near the roses the dark figure appears, her shears are ripped from her as a hand clasps her mouth to prevent any screams, Claire is stabbed and shoved under her beloved rose bush and left to die. All her neighbors claim to have been asleep during her murder.
As Retired Detective Athena Campbell is called to help mentor a young detective that does not want her help. Athena gets quite a bit of attention as she works with Patrick to solve Claire’s murder. All the extra attention surrounds her case as the Red Swan. None of which is helpful and neither are the neighbors that claim to have loved Claire and her generosity.
Athena knows very quickly and all too well that someone in the quaint little neighborhood is hiding something. They all claim to never really talk amongst each other, yet there are clues that say otherwise. It's the little things that help solve the murder.
The answers that Athena and Patrick are looking for are right in front of them and soon see the darkness the Narcissa Neighborhood hides.
I feel that this book was great overall I really enjoyed the detective work and the way the weird details of the main detective. The twist at the end was perfect. Just when I thought I knew who, what, when where and why, I was wrong. The way the detectives uncovered the truth was a crazy twist. I recommend this to those that love a good twisty whodunit murder mystery.
September 3, 2026
Two detectives struggling to find common ground, a private gated cul-de-sac, 5 houses, multiple suspects and one murder all set on the California coast, makes for a great whodunit that will keep you guessing until the very end!
Silent Observers took me on a crazy ride and I loved every minute of it! 🌹
Silent Observers took me on a crazy ride and I loved every minute of it! 🌹
Review of advance copy
This one surprised me. On one hand, it was your regular mystery, but on the other, the slower pacing and the (not always revealed) complexity of Athena and Patrick as characters/their backstories made it stand out. Definitely recommend!
*I received an advanced reader copy from BookSirens, and I'm voluntarily leaving an honest review.
*I received an advanced reader copy from BookSirens, and I'm voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
ماقدرتش نكمله،
مش عملي + مضيعة للوقت 🌚
مش عملي + مضيعة للوقت 🌚
Review of advance copy received from Author
Silent Observers follows retired detective Athena Campbell, formally The Red Swan, as she helps uncover the truth about the murder of Claire Whittaker. As you read the book, it feels like you're working alongside Detective Campbell and her partner Patrick to uncover the truth of the grisly murder that took place in such a wholesome community. As the investigation continues, you start to realize there's a little Desperate Housewives vibe in the background. Are these neighbors really who they appear to be?
The way I devoured each page, wanting to know the truth. It felt like a movie playing out on paper. Halfway through the book, I was glad I never befriend any of my own
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The way I devoured each page, wanting to know the truth. It felt like a movie playing out on paper. Halfway through the book, I was glad I never befriend any of my own
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 25, 2026
ARC Read - Release Date: 11/10
This book reads a bit like an episode of the show Revenge. I enjoyed the pacing and I felt like the background of retired detective, Athena Campbell, didn’t bog down the storyline. I appreciated that this book didn’t have any spice. It was a nice mix up. The relationship dynamics in the book were interesting and crucial to the plot. Definitely didn’t see the twist coming until closer to the end. Athena Campbell reads like an old school detective and can’t wait to read more of her story.
This book reads a bit like an episode of the show Revenge. I enjoyed the pacing and I felt like the background of retired detective, Athena Campbell, didn’t bog down the storyline. I appreciated that this book didn’t have any spice. It was a nice mix up. The relationship dynamics in the book were interesting and crucial to the plot. Definitely didn’t see the twist coming until closer to the end. Athena Campbell reads like an old school detective and can’t wait to read more of her story.
September 9, 2026
This was an excellent thriller! There were so many twists and turns! I was very surprised by 2 of them! This was the first time I read a story by this author and I’m happy I was selected as an ARC for it. The bonus story at the end added an extra layer.
October 5, 2026
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This story is based upon a brutal murder of Claire Whittaker, a member of a small community and everyone supposedly couldn’t say bad word about her. Murdered in her own prized rose garden.
Athena, a retired Detective comes back to consult on the case and is working with Patrick, a new detective. They have their ups and downs but ultimately find their killer.
I picked a few of the twists early on. This was a great read though. Thank you for the opportunity to review this ARC Book Sirens and Clarissa Verne.
This story is based upon a brutal murder of Claire Whittaker, a member of a small community and everyone supposedly couldn’t say bad word about her. Murdered in her own prized rose garden.
Athena, a retired Detective comes back to consult on the case and is working with Patrick, a new detective. They have their ups and downs but ultimately find their killer.
I picked a few of the twists early on. This was a great read though. Thank you for the opportunity to review this ARC Book Sirens and Clarissa Verne.
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
Interesting murder mystery. Enjoyed reading.
August 23, 2026
For my first ARC read, I must admit I LOVED it!!
I’m a sucker when it comes to murder mystery reads, and for me this one did not disappoint. Every chapter made me think “it could be this person” “this person definitely did it”. I was not expecting the actual character who committed the crime to be who it was, but the details given within the story and the connections throughout were seamless for me!!
Stunning first book and looking forward to more reads from this author ♡
I’m a sucker when it comes to murder mystery reads, and for me this one did not disappoint. Every chapter made me think “it could be this person” “this person definitely did it”. I was not expecting the actual character who committed the crime to be who it was, but the details given within the story and the connections throughout were seamless for me!!
Stunning first book and looking forward to more reads from this author ♡
Review of advance copy received from Author
Silent Observers is more than just a murder mystery when you consider everything happening beneath the actual investigation.
The murder of Claire Whittaker is disturbing enough—a woman found dead in her own rose bushes with her gardening shears—but the real intrigue is the small, seemingly insignificant details that start piling up. The neighbors all insist they barely know one another, yet there are clearly connections they don't want anyone to see. Then there are the notes, the missing money, the strange behavior, and more than a few people who seem to be hiding something.
Athena Campbell isn't your typical fearless detective who charges in and magically figures everything out. She's carrying a lot of personal history with her, and returning to this case puts her past right back in front of her. I liked watching her work through the investigation while also trying to keep those old wounds from taking over. Her origami swans were an interesting touch—they become her way of sorting through the people and clues when everything starts getting tangled.
And then there are the neighbors… let's just say I wouldn't be rushing to move into Narcissa Neighborhood. 😂 Everyone has secrets, everyone is watching everyone else, and the more Athena digs, the more complicated things become.
There is a darker story underneath the main story involving fear, control, trauma, and what happens when people become very good at keeping silent.
I definitely had a few "Okay, something is NOT right with these people" moments while reading. 😂 A solid debut mystery, and I'm curious to see where Athena Campbell goes next.
The murder of Claire Whittaker is disturbing enough—a woman found dead in her own rose bushes with her gardening shears—but the real intrigue is the small, seemingly insignificant details that start piling up. The neighbors all insist they barely know one another, yet there are clearly connections they don't want anyone to see. Then there are the notes, the missing money, the strange behavior, and more than a few people who seem to be hiding something.
Athena Campbell isn't your typical fearless detective who charges in and magically figures everything out. She's carrying a lot of personal history with her, and returning to this case puts her past right back in front of her. I liked watching her work through the investigation while also trying to keep those old wounds from taking over. Her origami swans were an interesting touch—they become her way of sorting through the people and clues when everything starts getting tangled.
And then there are the neighbors… let's just say I wouldn't be rushing to move into Narcissa Neighborhood. 😂 Everyone has secrets, everyone is watching everyone else, and the more Athena digs, the more complicated things become.
There is a darker story underneath the main story involving fear, control, trauma, and what happens when people become very good at keeping silent.
I definitely had a few "Okay, something is NOT right with these people" moments while reading. 😂 A solid debut mystery, and I'm curious to see where Athena Campbell goes next.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Silent Observers by Clarissa Verne// ARC Mystery Book Review
Pub Date: November 10, 2026
My Rating:
Summary:
📘Claire is found stabbed in her rose garden one morning in December 1998. She lived in Narcissa, a gated community, and the gate did not open all night. All the neighbors claim they don't know each other well, but in this small neighborhood, that seems impossible. Retired detective Athena Campbell is called in to investigate while mentoring a young detective, Patrick. Athena is fighting her own demons from the past, but she is determined to solve this murder.
My Thoughts:
💭This is an old-fashioned mystery, and I loved it! Athena is smart and knows how to ask the right questions. As she investigates, she quickly becomes aware that, despite denying they know each other, the neighbors actually know each other quite well. Claire has been hiding secrets, and Athena wants to know why. She methodically questions each neighbor several times. I kept getting Murder, She Wrote vibes from this book. This book not only pulls you in; it connects you with the characters. I loved watching the interaction between Athena and Patrick. Their relationship was complex and evolved throughout the book. The book is so well written, and the characters are developed in a way that made me feel like I was walking the neighborhood with Athena. I enjoyed the fact that this book was set in 1998. There were parts of the ending that I wished were different, but overall it was a great mystery. I will be eagerly waiting for book two!
Thank you to Clarissa Verne and BookSirens for this ARC.
Pub Date: November 10, 2026
My Rating:
Summary:
📘Claire is found stabbed in her rose garden one morning in December 1998. She lived in Narcissa, a gated community, and the gate did not open all night. All the neighbors claim they don't know each other well, but in this small neighborhood, that seems impossible. Retired detective Athena Campbell is called in to investigate while mentoring a young detective, Patrick. Athena is fighting her own demons from the past, but she is determined to solve this murder.
My Thoughts:
💭This is an old-fashioned mystery, and I loved it! Athena is smart and knows how to ask the right questions. As she investigates, she quickly becomes aware that, despite denying they know each other, the neighbors actually know each other quite well. Claire has been hiding secrets, and Athena wants to know why. She methodically questions each neighbor several times. I kept getting Murder, She Wrote vibes from this book. This book not only pulls you in; it connects you with the characters. I loved watching the interaction between Athena and Patrick. Their relationship was complex and evolved throughout the book. The book is so well written, and the characters are developed in a way that made me feel like I was walking the neighborhood with Athena. I enjoyed the fact that this book was set in 1998. There were parts of the ending that I wished were different, but overall it was a great mystery. I will be eagerly waiting for book two!
Thank you to Clarissa Verne and BookSirens for this ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I am grateful to Clarissa Verne for the opportunity to review an advance copy of Silent Observers, prior to its release on November 10, 2026, in exchange for my honest review.
In a gated community of five houses, Claire Whittaker is found deceased in her rose garden by a neighbor. The residents of Oleander Lane are all suspects.
Athena "Red Swan" Campbell, a retired detective, is asked by her former boss to act as a consultant, and work with Patrick, a newly promoted detective, on the case. Athena made national news, and was given the nickname "Red Swan" when she was the lone survivor of a tragedy at just eleven years of age. Patrick isn't thrilled that the media is focusing on her, rather than the homicide he's aiming to solve.
This book is an easy read, and the story and character development is solid. I especially enjoyed Athena and her backstory.
I appreciate when an author can draw from their own experiences, as Clarissa Verne does here; it makes the story feel authentic and accurate. I look forward to future books in this series.
In a gated community of five houses, Claire Whittaker is found deceased in her rose garden by a neighbor. The residents of Oleander Lane are all suspects.
Athena "Red Swan" Campbell, a retired detective, is asked by her former boss to act as a consultant, and work with Patrick, a newly promoted detective, on the case. Athena made national news, and was given the nickname "Red Swan" when she was the lone survivor of a tragedy at just eleven years of age. Patrick isn't thrilled that the media is focusing on her, rather than the homicide he's aiming to solve.
This book is an easy read, and the story and character development is solid. I especially enjoyed Athena and her backstory.
I appreciate when an author can draw from their own experiences, as Clarissa Verne does here; it makes the story feel authentic and accurate. I look forward to future books in this series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review | The Silent Observers ⭐️
The Silent Observers had a fast-paced beginning that hooked me almost immediately. I really enjoyed the writing style—it was engaging and visual, making it easy to picture the scenes and stay immersed in the story.
I predicted a few smaller elements, but that didn’t take away from the experience because the main twist genuinely surprised me. I did not see it coming, and that was one of my favourite parts of the book.
I also appreciated the importance given to the character development and emotional resolution.
Overall, this was a 3.5/5 ⭐️ read for me, rounded up to 4 stars on Goodreads. I especially enjoyed the pacing, writing, character development, and central twist.
Favourite quote — p. 109:
“There was something comforting about the idea, she thought. Not being able to be noticed by observing the lives of people.”
ARC disclosure: I received a complimentary advance copy with no monetary compensation. All opinions are my own.
The Silent Observers had a fast-paced beginning that hooked me almost immediately. I really enjoyed the writing style—it was engaging and visual, making it easy to picture the scenes and stay immersed in the story.
I predicted a few smaller elements, but that didn’t take away from the experience because the main twist genuinely surprised me. I did not see it coming, and that was one of my favourite parts of the book.
I also appreciated the importance given to the character development and emotional resolution.
Overall, this was a 3.5/5 ⭐️ read for me, rounded up to 4 stars on Goodreads. I especially enjoyed the pacing, writing, character development, and central twist.
Favourite quote — p. 109:
“There was something comforting about the idea, she thought. Not being able to be noticed by observing the lives of people.”
ARC disclosure: I received a complimentary advance copy with no monetary compensation. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book releases on November 10th and I was very happy to be chosen as an ARC reader as the locked door, Agatha Christie-esque synopsis pulled me in!
An impossible murder has been committed in a gated community of just five houses. Everyone has an alibi and everybody says that they don’t know each other very well.
Athena Campbell is something of a celebrity after an incident from her childhood long ago, and despite retiring from the force three decades ago she is brought in to consult and help Patrick solve the crime.
Trouble is, Patrick isn’t keen on working with Athena and getting to the bottom of the crime digs up some painful memories for her.
An impossible murder has been committed in a gated community of just five houses. Everyone has an alibi and everybody says that they don’t know each other very well.
Athena Campbell is something of a celebrity after an incident from her childhood long ago, and despite retiring from the force three decades ago she is brought in to consult and help Patrick solve the crime.
Trouble is, Patrick isn’t keen on working with Athena and getting to the bottom of the crime digs up some painful memories for her.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I am new to thrillers but quite enjoyed this book. It was a bit hard learning the main characters background closer to the end as well as figuring out the timelines (people were taking down Christmas decorations but it wasn't Christmas yet). But I couldn't figure out the 'whodunit' till basically the page it was revealed. It was well done with twists and turns. I am looking forward to getting to a book 2 with these characters. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an advanced copy of this book by the author.
This book hooked me from the beginning. It had me questioning myself each chapter. It was my first Athena Campbell mystery and it was a good one! Athena and Patrick join together to find who murdered the most loved neighbor in the whole GATED community. Athena is forced to be reckoned with and has a chilling past. She uses her past to help her uncover the hidden secrets that everyone at Narcissa has hidden. I loved the backstory of Athena that was given in the process of the book. I can’t wait until this releases, it’s a must read.
This book hooked me from the beginning. It had me questioning myself each chapter. It was my first Athena Campbell mystery and it was a good one! Athena and Patrick join together to find who murdered the most loved neighbor in the whole GATED community. Athena is forced to be reckoned with and has a chilling past. She uses her past to help her uncover the hidden secrets that everyone at Narcissa has hidden. I loved the backstory of Athena that was given in the process of the book. I can’t wait until this releases, it’s a must read.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Firstly thank you so much to Clarissa for allowing me to be a part of the ARC team! 🫶🏼
This story really gripped me from the start. I was ADDICTED!! It left me guessing and trying to solve the murder myself 😂 but the ending let it down.. because the book was so good, I was expecting a massive twist, which would make my jaw drop to the floor, but when I found out who killed her, I just went ‘oh’ and that was that. It was a shame, because I really enjoyed the book up until that point! 😔
This story really gripped me from the start. I was ADDICTED!! It left me guessing and trying to solve the murder myself 😂 but the ending let it down.. because the book was so good, I was expecting a massive twist, which would make my jaw drop to the floor, but when I found out who killed her, I just went ‘oh’ and that was that. It was a shame, because I really enjoyed the book up until that point! 😔
Review of advance copy
If they were working a crime that involved me, I do believe I would be very unhappy with Patrick and Athena. They only seem to manage one interview a day. What's up with that. On the other hand, Athena's flashbacks are very intense and might hold triggers that not all readers can manage.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Really enjoyed this ARC! A short, fast-paced whodunit mystery that had me questioning everyone. The FMC was brilliant - methodical, intelligent, and felt incredibly authentic, which isn’t surprising given the author’s background working within the criminal justice system. The pacing was quick, the mystery kept me guessing, and I flew through it. Perfect for mystery lovers! 🔍📖✨🌹
Review of advance copy received from Author
Great book. The twist I did not expect.
Was so drawn in.
Don't want to spoiler but honestly this book was amazing and I would reccommed to anyone to read this ❤️
Great characters. I really felt drawn to the consultants and also the way the book was written in certain textor phrasing to draw your suspicions out in to the book
Was so drawn in.
Don't want to spoiler but honestly this book was amazing and I would reccommed to anyone to read this ❤️
Great characters. I really felt drawn to the consultants and also the way the book was written in certain textor phrasing to draw your suspicions out in to the book
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a good locked/gated community mystery. I enjoyed the ending and the story that led up to it. Several times during the book, I wished that the FMC's story of her past and flashbacks would intertwine better with the main story. I think her past would have been an interesting prequel to this book. Overall, it was a solid story.
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