Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book
Rate this book
He will predict your life… and your death.

Don’t ever cross his palm with silver. He will reveal your most shameful secrets. He will predict your death. He is hiding a secret. He is hiding a monster. And all his predictions come true.

Investigating a series of chilling murders, Detective Jennifer Knight finds herself tracking a mysterious tarot card reader known only as The Raven.

As the death toll rises, Jennifer and her team build a picture of a serial killer on the edge of sanity, driven by dark forces. But these are not random killings. And the method behind the madness could be the most terrifying thing of all …

Especially when it seems the death of one of their own is on the cards.

Time to Die is an absolutely gripping serial killer thriller with a breath-taking supernatural twist.

336 pages, Paperback

First published September 24, 2015

725 people are currently reading
3310 people want to read

About the author

Caroline Mitchell

40 books2,153 followers
New York Times, USA Today, Washington Post and International #1 Bestselling Author. Shortlisted by the International Thriller Awards for best ebook 2017 and the Killer Nashville Best Police Procedural 2018.

** See all my books in order here: https://caroline-writes.com/books **
**Join my writing course here: https://www.caroline-mitchell.com **

Now available:
Amy Winter thriller series: https://geni.us/AmySeries

Slayton thriller series: https://geni.us/Slaytonseries

Jennifer Knight thriller series: https://geni.us/JKSeries

The Islanders psych thriller: https://geni.us/TheIslandersCM

The Village psych thriller: https://geni.us/thevillage


Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
1,534 (44%)
4 stars
1,179 (34%)
3 stars
529 (15%)
2 stars
140 (4%)
1 star
59 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 234 reviews
Profile Image for Maureen .
1,708 reviews7,484 followers
February 6, 2024
Oh my giddy aunt! You wouldn't want to meet Bert Bishop on a dark night, (nor even on a sunny day for that matter)! When he offers to give a tarot card reading, it soon becomes clear that there is going to be no rosy ending. This crime thriller is a little different to the norm in that it incorporates a supernatural element. It was highly captivating, a real spine tingler, and I'll never see a raven in the same light again. There was also a nice twist at the end. Highly recommended.

* Thank you to Netgalley and Bookouture for my ARC*.
Profile Image for Maxine (Booklover Catlady).
1,407 reviews1,421 followers
May 19, 2016
This is now one of my favourite five star reads of the last 12 months and I have read and reviewed 500 books over that period (I checked my stats).

Well! Obviously I have been hiding under a rock somewhere by not discovering Caroline Mitchell sooner. Of course silly me checked my *ahem* very full Kindle to realise I actually had her first book in this series but hey, this novel read brilliantly without knowing the background from the first novel. So it's all good.

I have read a few novels over the years that tried to blend crime with the supernatural/paranormal. In two words they were epic fails. So far fetched and unbelievable that I did a lot of harrumphing as I went along. But Caroline Mitchell has got this in hand, oh yes indeed. The seamless blend is marvellously done and before long (about a paragraph) I was ready for a really bloody good read!

Here is the blurb bit in case you missed it:

Don’t ever cross his palm with silver.
He will reveal your most shameful secrets.
He will predict your death.
He is hiding a secret.
He is hiding a monster.
And all his predictions come true.


Investigating a series of chilling murders, Detective Jennifer Knight finds herself tracking a mysterious tarot card reader known only as The Raven.

As the death toll rises, Jennifer and her team build a picture of a serial killer on the edge of sanity, driven by dark forces. But these are not random killings. And the method behind the madness could be the most terrifying thing of all …

Especially when it seems the death of one of their own is on the cards.


Detective Jennifer (don't you dare call her Jenny) Knight is a bit special, she has special gifts, some would say she is a seer, others a psychic, it doesn't really matter for it's something that sets her apart from all the other female Detectives out there in book land. Not only that she is a gutsy, pull no punches, gritty Detective. Not one to always follow the rules OR listen to the little warning bells inside, she charges ahead determined to solve the case and get her guy.

A man called The Raven, a man who throws down the cards, the tarot cards and foretells your future. A man who evades Jennifer Knight, but she is determined to find him and so the dance between them begins. I can tell you this, he's creepy, he's not had much of a normal life and he's on a mission. There are dark forces at work. As you read more about him you will be scratching the back of your neck and checking out of your window for any ravens sitting on the power lines or fence, or even just one in the air. Darn those things! Caw! Caw! If you see one, just run.



The plot is unique, this is not a book where you know the killer's identity right at the very end, but there is a great reveal and twist at the end to keep this reader happy and no doubt you too. I have to admit I did guess the twist reveal but even so I delighted in it. I was shouting at Jennifer to wrap this case UP.

It's got creepy events, atmospheric moments, moments where you feel like you might get tipped over a bit too much to the dark side but not too far that you fall in. I loved so many characters in this book. I even loved but hated our creepy tarot card reading guy. And that's saying a LOT. He was so well written. He made my skin crawl, literally.

There is a LOT more to the plot but honestly it's not a book to reveal too much and I do hope reviewers don't share too much of it. I absolutely loved it for so many reasons, including the fact that it made for compelling reading and kept me intrigued from start to finish. I really do like Caroline's writing style, I find it very easy to be involved with, she did not lose me for a second as I read this gem.

So what are you waiting for? Get your hands on this one, especially if you are an avid crime fan like me, don't let the genre blending put you off, because if anyone was not going to like that it was going to be me. It works. And the more you read the more it works. Clever penmanship.

5 paw prints from Booklover Catlady for this great novel. I think this one should power up the rankings and do really well. If it doesn't? Well, keep you eyes out for any ravens about.

Caw! Caw!

For more of my reviews: https://www.facebook.com/BookloverCat...
Follow me on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/promotethatbook



Thanks to the publisher who kindly provided an ARC of this book via NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Profile Image for Amanda Jane.
59 reviews99 followers
October 7, 2016
From the first few sentences of Time To Die by Caroline Mitchell I was hooked. This was the first book I have read of Mitchell's but it certainly won't be the last!

The full title is Time to Die: A gripping serial killer thriller-with a twist. It is not an understatement to call it gripping and there are twists left,right and centre with a huge twist towards the end. It is that and more.

It is not your run of the mill police procedural crime book. There is none of the usual washed out or alcoholic detective with his young fresh good looking partner. For that alone, thank you Caroline Mitchell!

The story is original and even if you are not into paranormal books, I suggest that you give this novel a chance because nothing is far fetched in regards to the metaphysical. At the core of this book is great thriller, which will keep you guessing and reading late into the night.

Mitchell's obviously a naturally gifted writer. Her writing is realistic in all aspects from the crime scenes, the thoughts of a psychopath or conversations between police officers back at the station

Time to die is the second book in the series revolving around the very likeable protagonist DC Jennifer Knight who has lived in the town of Haven her whole life and also works there. Haven may seem like a lovely name for a town but it would seem to be more of a paranormal hotspot that holds many mystical dark secrets.

Knight and her occasionally sceptical partner DC William Dunston are working in a new branch within the Haven Police Department called Operation Moonlight which works on cases of the supernatural/paranormal kind. Most of the team have some type of psychic ability or at least an open mind to the idea of the paranormal.

They are on a hunt for a serial killer called The Raven. He reads Tarot Cards but once he has read about a person's future they turn up dead. Each death is different so there is not the usual MO that is usually associated with serial killers, making the case even more difficult.

Knight and her partner Dunstan have their work cut out for them, the deeper they get into the case, the more questions they have. The case becomes more dangerous especially for the detective Jennifer Knight.

Who is The Raven? Why the Tarot cards? How does a supposedly innocent Tarot reading become a death sentence? Why can they not find a connection between the victims of Haven? Or is it random selection? Is there some type of connection to Knight?

To say anymore about the plot would spoil all the wonderful twists and turns that you will experience in reading Time to Die. This novel can be read as a stand alone novel but I think once you start reading this, it won't be long before you will want to read more of Mitchell's work.

The author Caroline Mitchell is a police officer and has had her own experiences with the paranormal and it shows in the accuracy of her writing. Mitchell's book called Paranormal Intruder about her and her family's true experiences that have been documented is definitely worth a look but be warned its scary stuff and not for the fainted hearted!

I wasn't even half through this novel when I went to Kindle store and bought Mitchell's other books which should give you some idea of just how much I enjoyed this novel. This is an author to keep your eyes on she has given the reader a fresh and intriguing story line on the whole crime/thriller and police procedural genre.

5 out of 5 stars.

Thank you to Caroline Mitchell, Bookouture and Netgalley for the opportunity to read Time to Die in exchange for a honest and fair review.

If you would like to know more about Caroline Mitchell check out her website caroline-writes.com and for more awesome books here is the publisher's website bookouture.com
Profile Image for Sue.
1,417 reviews5 followers
October 12, 2015
Many thanks to the author, Caroline Mitchell, the publisher, Bookouture and Netgalley for allowing me to read this excellent novel “Time To Die” by Caroline Mitchell, the follow up book to her debut novel, “Don’t Turn Around”. This second book in the Detective Jennifer Knight series, had a lot to live up to, as I was totally blown away with the first book. This book did not disappoint.

This is a paranormal Crime Thriller, a serial killer with a paranormal element that will appeal to a wide audience. I normally read mystery suspense psychological thrillers, and do not normally gravitate to paranormal novels, but again the author has done an excellent job of balancing the genres. I feel this book can easily be read as a standalone novel.

Detective Jennifer Knight is back and we return to Haven. This time, with a serial killer story.

Jennifer is working, as part of Operation Moonlight, a police team that takes on cases with a supernatural element. She will now called upon to investigate some strange deaths in her village of Haven.

The bodies start to pile up… they have had a recent tarot reading! And she is after, “The Raven” a killer, a man who can predict the future with tarot cards.

Don’t ever cross his palm with silver.
He will reveal your most shameful secrets.
He will predict your death.
He is hiding a secret.
He is hiding a monster.
And all his predictions come true.

Just the thought of Ravens circling in the sky, gave me the creeps…really eerie and foreboding. I am not crazy about bugs, bats or snakes and now I am adding Ravens to the list.

But what I valued most in this novel was WHAT motivated him to act the way he does!

This is a well written novel, with engaging characters, and twists and turns until the end. I liked that the author wrote about a strong female, who does it her way! I really enjoyed reading this book, and I know that it will appeal to a wide audience.
Profile Image for Elyse Walters.
4,010 reviews11.9k followers
September 8, 2015
"Operation Moonlight", a division of law enforcement, ( a great team of characters), takes on cases that have paranormal/supernatural aspects to them in the small town of Haven in England.

Jennifer Knight is an interesting detective. She has her own psychic abilities which she
puts to use while investigating a series of murders. She is a strong female- focused and dedicated to her job. Her challenge is having the disorder OCD...yet her disorder added a
human quality to her character. (Besides..I was wishing I could ask her to come clean my
house with her spectacular driven cleaning talents)... ha!

The 'Operation Moonlight team soon realize they are not
dealing with random killings .... but a serial killer, called 'The Raven', who can predict the future with tarot cards.
Tensions are high.. Jennifer's immediate family is in danger.... and so is Detective Jennifer.

Spooky- eerie - creepy- unique mystic crime thriller!

The Raven may still be killing in Haven.... or not....

Careful which Tarot card you pull.... you just might be in for a chilling surprise!

Well written, page turning suspense!

Thank You to Bookouture Publishing, Netgalley, and author Caroline Mitchell


Profile Image for Magdalena aka A Bookaholic Swede.
2,058 reviews886 followers
June 15, 2016
I had hoped this book would be better than the first one, and in the beginning, it actually looked like it would with a tarot reading man called the Raven whose predictions about deaths seems to come true. But after a while, I just felt that the story started to drag.

The chapters shift between Jennifer Knight and Bert, the tarot man and it worked OK in the beginning but somewhere along the way I just got tired of the alternation. Could be because I found the story just dull and I wanted it to wrap up so that I could move on.

There is a side story with a sect that I found uninteresting, I just never saw the point of it. But I should have know that there would be some connections to the tarot murder case. I mean why else add a side story to a crime book without having something to do with the main case. But I guess the biggest problem I had with the story not that interesting to read about, and that I'm sick and tired of main characters being chosen by a killer as his nemesis or something. Sending letters with a raven feather in them to Jennifer just made me mentally sigh because I have read so many books lately with the main character being the target of the killer they are chasing that it's lost its appeal.

Jennifer Knight also has some personal problem with her father returning to town and wants to have contact with Jennifer and her sister. But Jennifer just doesn't want to forgive him, and I can understand that. I just wish she could understand that her sister is a grown up woman with two kids and that she can't tell her what to do. And, perhaps she should tell her the truth about the fire on the boat. Secrets tend to come out sooner or later.

Anyway, I was a bit surprised towards the end when something was revealed about on of the characters in the book, I didn't expect that I must admit. I expected a must less surprising end, but it makes sense that there is something more to the tarot killings.

Would I continue with this series? No, I don't think so. I just can't seem to warm up to Jennifer Knight or the rest of characters and neither this book or the previous was really that interesting. At least the first book had a grand finale, this book lacked that and also lacked a really interesting story.

Update: I'm glad I read the next book in the series because unlike this one I quite liked that one!

Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for providing me with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Profile Image for Gary.
3,029 reviews424 followers
September 5, 2015
I was introduced to this author when I read the first book in this series 'Don't turn around' and was extremely impressed so it was an easy choice to read this novel once offered me.
The novel features Detective Jennifer Knight who is in search of a serial killer who gives Tarot card readings to his victims and is known as 'The Raven'. But everything is not as it initially appears and the book is full of suspense and surprises. The addition of a touch of psychic abilities give this series a refreshing change from the usual whiskey drinking detective with a broken marriage etc. that many others follow. That said Detective Jennifer Knight is a very gritty character with plenty of her own skeletons in her past to make her more than just interesting.
This book can be read as a stand alone novel but due to the quality of the first novel I would recommend you read both of them.
I would like to thank Net Galley and Bookouture for a copy of this novel in exchange for a honest review.
Profile Image for Jan.
423 reviews285 followers
February 16, 2016
3.75 stars

Well written police story with a supernatural element that I found pleasantly appealing. While not my typical genre, the paranormal scenes added a creepiness to the story that kept me completely engrossed to the end.
The characters had depth, the story flowed at an even pace and there was a nice twist at the end to make this one enjoyable read.

I think I might have rated this higher if I had read Don't Turn Around, the first book in the Knight series, as I have come to understand that there is a lot more backstory with it. When I started this book, I did feel a bit left out, like I was late for the party and struggling to catch up. This is in reference to all the cross-over characters backstories, not just the protagonist's. I do think the main plot of this book works just fine as a standalone though.

It appears that there is more in store for Detective Jennifer Knight and her team, and I look forward to reading the next in the series...after I backtrack and read the first book that started it all!

ARC from NetGalley
Profile Image for ReadAlongWithSue recovering from a stroke★⋆. ࿐࿔.
2,880 reviews425 followers
September 3, 2019
I’m still on my catch up reads in and in between other books I’m reading or listening to.

This was a spine chilling, atmospheric, “hairs on the back of your neck stand up” kind of read.

It has some supernatural feel to this that leaves you shivering all over from your head to your toes in a real “gotta keep reading” sort of way.

I’m onto book 3!
Profile Image for Angela Marsons.
Author 45 books4,947 followers
October 14, 2015
I absolutely Loved this book from start to finish. I am a slow reader yet found myself anxious to get back to this book to just get onto the next chapter. The story had me captivated from the very first page and didn't let me go until the end. DC Jennifer Knight is a character that I could read about forever. I really enjoyed her character development in this second novel and seeing a different side of her through her new relationship.
I love the character of Will and also enjoyed more development from Claire.
The writing was assured and expertly guided me from one question to another. The story was full of twists and turns that kept me going back for more.
The prose is skilful and the imagery is striking and evocative.
Although this is a standalone novel there are questions galore to tempt the reader to devour the third in the series. I know I will be first in line when DC Knight book 3 is released.
Highly Recommended.
Profile Image for Frances.
192 reviews360 followers
October 25, 2015
You would not wish to meet Bertram Bishop and have him offer to predict your future. Those who do are most unfortunate, as once the tarot cards are turned over there is no going back. Bertram oozes evil from his very pores and takes great pride in all that he does. Once the prediction is made it is not the joyful future most want to hear; only death within hours of the last card being turned over. But Bertram’s main prize and conquest is Detective Jennifer Knight, who is currently investigating a cult promising anyone they can forget their past and begin their life anew. Before long the paths are destined to cross between the tarot reader and the detective. Readers will be entranced with this spine chillingly creepy paranormal book.

*Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for my free copy.*
Profile Image for Elaine.
504 reviews72 followers
September 12, 2015
5 ++++++ Stars

 photo 874037_zpsd86ac34a.gif

Fantastic thriller and with a twist that even I didn't see.

The ravens are watching and waiting....
 photo tumblr_nt39fwkjgq1utdap1o1_500_zpsw4gqiqla.gif

Detective Jennifer Knight is back again from her last case from Caroline Mitchell's first book Don't Turn Around
Now joining the elite Operation Moonlight team.
She's called upon to investigate strange deaths in her village of Haven.

As the bodies start to pile up, one thing they all seem to have in common is they have had a recent tarot reading...past, present and the future....

 photo tumblr_n0sctcDEtP1shgs1po1_500_zpsgxmqnqrc.gif

‘Who are you?’ Jennifer whispered.

You come knocking on my door and you ask me who I am?


 photo tumblr_na6entcxj31s0pvf5o1_250_zpsybfykkg6.gif


He granted her an answer. Why I’m Raven of course.



 photo tumblr_inline_nkfnr2FYGP1t7oi6g_zpswtrjomi6.gif

As the predictions from these readings start to come true is this just a cruel act of fate or something more sinister.

 photo funny-gifs-wtf_medium_zps502383f4.gif

Jennifer Knight was drawing near. He touched the cards in his jacket pocket. It was time for another prediction.

 photo damon-anyone-ever-tell-you-thats-creepy_zpsuczdbeon.gif

Once again this author has exceeded my expectations with another exciting chilling and sinister thriller.
But more than it just being a well written thriller it has an unique twist within the story giving it a totally different feel but at the same time keeping the story believable.
I really enjoy her style of writing and look forward to Detective Jennifer Knights next case.
 photo tumblr_m9x0p48n9B1ry937io1_250_zps2fd4e2a8.gif


Don't Turn Around
Time To Die

***ARC provided by Netgalley in return for an honest review***
Profile Image for Lisa.
931 reviews
March 17, 2016
Wow what a great book by Caroline Mitchell a fabulous police procedural in the paranormal genre original i must say loved every minute of this book the characters were strong & believable & loved the premise of this as well.

DC Jennifer Knight investigates a series of murders she is looking into a tarot card reader known as The Raven


As the death toll rises Jennifer & her team build up a profile of a serial killer on the edge of sanity driven by the dark forces, but these murders are not random& the method behind the madness could be the most terrifying of them all.

It becomes more terrifying when one of their own goes missing it is up to DC Jennifer knight to find her partner DC Will Dunstan before its to late.

I found Bertram to be really creepy & disturbing throughout this book his character makes the story for me.

A must read for paranormal police procedural fans 5 stars
Profile Image for Linda Strong.
3,878 reviews1,709 followers
February 29, 2016
( This is second in a 3-book series)

DC Jennifer Wright, because of her psychic abilities, has been invited to join Operation Moonlight. Still a law enforcement agency, but the cases they investigate all have a supernatural theme.

The Raven is a man who gives tarot card readings to supposedly random strangers ... his predictions are always accurate and the victim winds up committing suicide .. with or without the Raven giving a hand.

The book is full of twists and turns with an ending I did not see coming. I liked the first book in this series, but this one seems to be better crafted. Although there are a few mentions of things that happened in the previous book, this one does well as a stand-alone.

I would have liked to learn more about Operation Moonlight. It sort of reminds me a little of a series of books by Kay Hooper. I like the characters ... except for Jennifer's obsession with cleaning.. her house, her office, Will's desk at work .. it goes on and on. Makes me feel a little guilty for not being more like Jennifer in this aspect.

Will and Jennifer have finally acted on their feelings for each other. This actually made Jennifer more believable and not a cardboard cutout of other female protagonists I've read.

This one is well-written and I look forward to reading the last in the series ... THE SILENT TWIN.

Many thanks to the author / Bookouture / NetGalley who provided a digital copy in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
Profile Image for Andrea.
695 reviews
February 6, 2024
This is the second book in this series I enjoyed reading the first book. My rating is 3.5 and rounded to four.to be honest I wasnt keen on the supernatural elements in this read.Detective Jennifer knight on a chilling murder cases,shes looking for a tarot reader known as the raven,will she find the culprit? Looking forward to reading the next instalment.
Profile Image for Ana.
521 reviews358 followers
November 24, 2015

Originally posted on This Chick Reads

*Copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*

'Time to Die' is Caroline Mitchell's third novel, and second one in a series involving a psychic detective (Jennifer Knight) who solves crimes that involve a supernatural element. The first one in the series is 'Don't Turn Around' which I read this summer but haven't had the time to review yet due to my busy agenda. But I definitely enjoyed it and review will follow soon, that I can promise.

But no matter if you've read the first part or not, 'Time to Die' can be easily read as a stand-alone, as the only thing these novels have in common is the main character, detective Jennifer Knight.

In 'Time to Die' we follow Jennifer as she's working on the case of a serial killer known as 'The Raven'. Having psychic abilities, Jennifer is part of a special police unit called 'Operation Moonlight' working on rather mysterious cases involving the supernatural. She's a dedicated and hardworking woman, doing the best with her team to find a serial killer who kills in a rather unusual way. After meeting their victims, The Raven reads their fortune by tarot cards and predicts their end to the slightest detail. Team Operation Moonlight is working hard on finding more clues to find the killer, however it seems The Raven is always one step ahead of them. What's worse, the police can't find any connection between the victims, or the way they are connected to the killer.

'Time to Die' was a book I really had high expectations for and I'm happy to say Ms Mitchell sure delivers. I read the book in less than 24 hours and was hooked from the very begging. I haven't read many thriller/crime books with a paranormal element, however Ms Mitchell manages to blend the paranormal to a perfection and create a dark, gripping story that will keep you turning the pages. There was one big twist near the end which totally took me by surprise, and I was fascinated with how Ms Mitchell managed to to keep the suspense till the last page.

Another strong feat of Ms Mitchell as a writer is the fact she creates fantastic antagonists. The Raven is a brilliant character, the ultimate bad guy, however in a strange way he got under my skin I even started to like him. I especially loved those parts told from his point of view, when we get to see a bit of his history, his miserable childhood and all the evil things he did in his life. I was fascinated with The Raven! In these chapters when he was talking about what got him into tarot reading I felt like I was getting inside his head. It was rather dark and very unpleasant, but thanks to Ms Mitchell's fantastic writing, I peeled a layer after layer, getting deeper and deeper inside The Raven's twisted brain. I wish there were more chapters told from The Raven's point of view as in my opinion he's an excellent narrator and had lots to share.

Though I liked detective Jennifer, I must say that I found The Raven more fascinating. I didn't feel like I completely got to know Jennifer and that's the only reason for not giving this book the max 5*.

Overall, this was such an interesting, dark and gripping read and one I'd recommend to everyone that loves their mystery/crime with a paranormal twist. I'll definitely be on a watch out for Ms Mitchell's future works.
Profile Image for Kate.
606 reviews579 followers
November 6, 2015

Well... Where do I begin?!
Time To Die is my fourth read for Bookouture Thriller Week, which ends today! I've already read and loved Caroline's first DC Jennifer Knight book Don't Turn Around, my review of which you can read here!





About the book:

Don’t ever cross his palm with silver.

He will reveal your most shameful secrets.

He will predict your death.

He is hiding a secret.

He is hiding a monster.

And all his predictions come true.

Investigating a series of chilling murders, Detective Jennifer Knight finds herself tracking a mysterious tarot card reader known only as The Raven.
As the death toll rises, Jennifer and her team build a picture of a serial killer on the edge of sanity, driven by dark forces. But these are not random killings. And the method behind the madness could be the most terrifying thing of all …
Especially when it seems the death of one of their own is on the cards.




My thoughts:

I loved Don't Turn Around and I couldn't see how Caroline could write a better book in the series. How wrong was I!!!! Time To Die is absolutely fantastic. It is full of suspense, mystery and some very chilling scenes.

I'm usually not creeped out when I read books, but to be honest for parts of this book I was glad the light was on and that my husband was next to me!
Profile Image for Icy-Cobwebs-Crossing-SpaceTime.
5,637 reviews328 followers
September 26, 2015
Review: TIME TO DIE by Caroline Mitchell

Second in the paranormal series featuring English Detective Constable Jennifer Knight as a sort of psychic detective. A member of the detachment known as Operation Moonlight, Jennifer's gifts are put on the line, and in danger, while simultaneously tensions among her immediate family are exploding. The villain here is one of the oldest I've ever encountered, and he kills by proxy, both factors adding to the intrigue. Additionally, the paranormal levels are very high, which I totally enjoy. No suspension of disbelief needed here!
Profile Image for Noelle.
Author 8 books288 followers
September 12, 2015
My Prediction…I mean…My Review:

First and foremost I would like to thank Bookouture/Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.

I thought I would do my review with a slight twist (keep reading and you will see what I mean) — in keeping with the spirit/plot of this book — so bear with me.

I really enjoyed this book by Caroline Mitchell. I read the first book in the series: Don’t Turn Around and felt that the mash up of police procedural/thriller/crime and the paranormal was an interesting mix. A cocktail of every thing I enjoy stirred and shaken so I was left with an interesting concoction of writing to read.

Well for me, Time To Die was much better! It had the elements of supernatural so cleverly woven within the pages that you do not even have to suspend belief, stretch your imagination or think beyond the ordinary to the extraordinary as it just seems believable…or maybe I have just been “Mitchell-ed” –my new term for this author’s way of captivating my interest and drawing me in!

We meet the usual suspects again –DC Jennifer Knight, DC Will Dunston, DI Ethan Cole and some newbies: DS Claire Gilmour and Zoe (to name a few) but this time they are working with Operation Moonlight, a special branch within their police team–Haven CID. I enjoyed the way we learned more about Jennifer Knight in this book–no spoilers I promise– and I was really pleased to see that she develops a love interest in this book –I know, I know — I think Marcie Steele has left a little “love dust” on me (gag!!) If I turn soft I am totally blaming Bookouture!

Of course I cannot forget “The Raven” — the serial killer that Jennifer Knight must track down and bring to justice. What a great character! The vivid descriptions of this guy, drip fed to us in the chapters, let me picture him clearly and let me tell you–he is NOT someone I would like to meet and get a reading from! *Shiver* You have to take a leap of faith into the abyss of the supernatural with this character or you will not grasp his true meaning.

Once again, the author has filled these pages with gripping twists and turns and the final twist–well even I did not see that coming!! Fan-bloody-tastic! I enjoyed this book so much that I forced myself to read slowly as I just could not bear for it to end. Now that is a great read!

So here is my prediction:

The Chariot: This is a card of success & triumph over all obstacles as well as self confidence and will power. For the author I would say this card is telling her to keep writing the DC Jennifer Knight series even when it feels like the story is not forming; it will come and write itself. For DC Jennifer Knight it is telling her to keep fighting those supernatural forces and believe in her skills as she is stronger than she thinks!

The Wheel of Fortune: This card foresees the eternal battle of good & evil; a change for the better and good fortune/karmic change. For the author I think we will see some internal challenges in the way DC Knight develops for future books but all will work out as it should. For Jennifer, her powers and skills will lead her to solving more cases with Operation Moonlight and open the door to her personal relationships. Those who cross her may feel her wrath….after all….Karma is a bitch!

And finally The Moon. This card represents illusion, imagination and dreams; signifies psychic work or abilities. How fitting for this card to be drawn indeed! For the author I would say it reinforces the path of supernatural crime-thriller writing she has chosen and hints at using her own experiences to weave / create the stories she shares with us readers. For Jennifer it seems more obvious – carry on! Her work has meaning and will bring justice to those where justice seems impossible.

So there you have it. I loved this booked. I thought the story was brilliant. The characters were creative and kept me hooked. The twists and turns kept me gasping for more. And I was pleased to see that DC Knight will be starting a new case…just hope I don’t have to wait ages to read all about it!

Could not recommend this book any more highly
Profile Image for Joseph - Relax And Read Reviews.
343 reviews27 followers
September 15, 2015
The Queen of Darkness is back, and she's back with a vengeance.

Caroline Mitchell's debut thriller 'Don't Turn Around' was a cracking, nail-biting supernatural thriller of which I still recall many details, but in my opinion with 'Time to Die' this author has truly surpassed herself and my expectations.

"My name is Raven. You asked for a reading..."

DC Jennifer Knight and her team are investigating a series of suspicious deaths linked to a mysterious tarot card reader known as 'The Raven'. Somehow Raven's premonitions always come true and soon after his 'clients' die in the way he prophecies. Suspecting a supernatural involvement, Jennifer is desperate to find a connection between these seemingly random deaths.

"They were coming. The ravens were coming."

As Jennifer's sense of foreboding grows "as black as the wings of the ravens", The Raven makes contact with her and at that point she realises that something dark is on the horizon and a storm is coming for her. Who is this man? Is he killing these people or is it the work of something much more sinister? How is he choosing his victims? Why does he contact Jennifer personally? What does he want from her? Will she succeed in tracking him down before it's too late?

"In the mind of a cold-blooded killer, everything is justified."

Well this book is literally shrouded in gloom. Evil seeps out of every page. It is a dark, scary, atmospheric read, and Caroline's vivid descriptions of the surroundings made goosebumps spring on my flesh. I could almost hear the harsh cawing of those horrible beady eyed ravens (I hate them!) or the fluttering of their wings.

This is a very well-written, absorbing book and I found myself reading very fast to find out what will happen next. I was enthralled from the very first chapter but I made the big mistake of reading some pages at night, in the dark and I ended up afraid of stepping out of bed, fearing that something might grab my foot.

With twists and turns till the end, a well-balanced mixture of police procedural, the supernatural and even a dash of romance, I really enjoyed reading this book. The ending gives a good hint of Jennifer's next investigation. This has left me both curious and intrigued, but also furious because now I'll have to wait for the third book in the series to be published to find out what will happen.

If you want to be taken to the dark side, if you haven't yet tasted the produce of Caroline Mitchell's dark and twisted mind, what are you waiting for? Read this book! I highly recommend it. To say that it's excellent is simply a big understatement. Well Done Caroline!

With thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for approving my request to read and review this book.

Profile Image for David Reviews.
159 reviews227 followers
October 11, 2015

If you enjoyed Don't Turn Around by Caroline Mitchell, then you will most likely enjoy this second book in the Detective Jennifer Knight series even more. Time To Die is a brilliant, creepy and gripping read that touches on the paranormal but is easy to accept and thoroughly entertaining. I really enjoy this authors writing and in Jennifer Knight she has created a fantastic character that the reader can like and care about. I can highly recommend this excellent thriller to everyone who wants a creepy serial killer and a touch of the supernatural weaved into a story, with a twist.

We are back in Haven and Jennifer is now working as part of Operation Moonlight. A police division where some of the team have unusual abilities which can be useful for solving crimes. Jennifer's psychic abilities are pitted against an evil and deluded serial killer known only as 'The Raven'. He seems to be killing people at random. The only clue is that before they die he has given them a tarot card reading. The body count is rising and Jennifer senses a link to this man that she can't ignore, even if it means putting herself at risk.

Jennifer is again working with her police partner Will in this story. There was always a close bond between the two and Caroline Mitchell develops their relationship further in this book. It all adds to the intrigue as together they lead the hunt for the serial killer. I found this a real page turner and I'm sure everyone who reads it will find it enjoyable too. Definitely worth buying and at the Kindle price you really can't go wrong. (ARC Received)
Profile Image for Paromjit.
3,080 reviews26.3k followers
November 7, 2015
A Time to Die focuses on the ‘Raven’, a man with supernatural and eerie connections to the birds (in folklore ravens are deeply associated with death). More ominously, he is a tarot card reader who truly can read people inordinately accurately when it comes to their past, present and future. You do not want a tarot card reading from this man - he will always predict your death in the very near future.

Chasing him is Haven’s covert police division of ‘sensitives’ or psychics, known as Operation Moonlight. More specifically, the main character after him is DC Jennifer Knight, a woman with OCD with an extremely troubled past. She finds herself in considerable danger in her hunt for the Raven, as are those close to her. She also begins a love affair with a fellow police officer. The finale does not end just with the capture of the Raven, but with another twist that is a complete shock to DC Knight. There is another presence that has been lurking behind the Raven, who will stop at nothing to ensure Jennifer’s death.

A Time to Die is a competently written, well structured supernatural thriller which succeeds admirably in drawing in the reader with well maintained suspense throughout. I would recommend this novel to readers. I received a free ebook copy via netgalley for a honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Claire.
1,093 reviews184 followers
September 24, 2015
Oh my giddy aunt, Time To Die.....what do I say??

I'm a crime story fan, have been for years so when I discovered Caroline Mitchell's Don't Turn Around earlier this year, I was a little unsure about adding the paranormal twist to my favourite genre. But DC Jennifer Knight is a fantastic character and has opened my mind and taken me into a new genre that I didn't think I would enjoy. But now I've read Time To Die, I'm sold.... I think Jennifer's second outing is better than her debut and I can not wait for number 3 to come out!

The whole story gave me a bit of the heebie jeebies, the ravens are very unnerving and their presence reminded me of Hitchcock's film The Birds. I'm just glad that there aren't many ravens in the UK. I liked the way the main suspect is taken back to their childhood, it gives them a fuller character and shows what a truly nasty piece of work they are.

If you enjoy crime novels and fancy something a little different, give DC Knight and the team a read (I'm not biased in any way by the lead's surname). The books tick all the boxes of crime fiction but with that twist out of the ordinary.

Thank you to Bookouture and Netgalley for inviting me to read and review this rather unnerving book!
Profile Image for Jules.
1,075 reviews232 followers
September 28, 2015
Time to Die is a detective story with a paranormal aspect to it.

Frank was my favourite character in Don’t Turn Around. I was fascinated by him. So I was curious what intriguing character may feature in Time to Die. Needless to say, I was really pleased when I started to read about Bert, as he helped to feed my curiosity in a similar way to Frank in the previous novel.

The Raven, a tarot card reader who has the ability to know the pasts of those he is doing the reading for, and more frighteningly, can predict their deaths, is a somewhat creepy villain. I loved the whole tarot cards aspect of the storyline, and was engrossed in the parts of the book that told the story of his past, and how he came to be the way he is.

I wouldn’t say I found this book scary. However, I do read some rather dark horrors, and I openly admit to police procedural crime books not being one of my favourite genres. Having said that, this was still an enjoyable read with interesting characters.

Although Time to Die is part of a series this can easily be read as a standalone novel.

I would like to thank the publisher, Bookouture for allowing me a copy of this book via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Tracy Shephard.
863 reviews64 followers
August 29, 2015
Bert and his Tarot readings are the main topic of the latest offering by the fantastic Caroline Mitchell.

We meet again DC Jennifer Knight and her sidekick Will. The sexual chemistry between these two characters is electric and the intense relationship does not disappoint the reader.

Time To Die is akin to Hitchcocks Psycho meets (Edgar Allan) Poe, and is gripping from page 1. Bert is The Raven, he knows things about people, and once these people have met him, their deaths are imminent and bloody.

I loved Bert, he is a solitary, mean and odious man, he is the perfect protagonist and he metes out justice like he is the Saviour.

I like the way Caroline writes, she does not assume the readers intelligence at Police procedures, everything is explained and she manages to rouse and titillate.

Time To die is brilliant. Caroline Mitchell is becoming the most prolific writers of Paranormal writing and her creative and inventive mind is a joy to behold. I love her.

I can’t wait for her next offering and only hope it includes Abigail and Olivia, my interest is peaked. Yes, she’s done it again.
Profile Image for Renita D'Silva.
Author 20 books410 followers
September 7, 2015
What an amazing roller coaster of a book! Caroline Mitchell wowed me with her debut and this wonderful book is even better!I was hooked from the very first line and even as I was furiously turning the pages, I also did not want it to end, I was enjoying it so much. The Raven really is quite the perfect villain and I really admired how the author showed us inside his twisted mind. Love Operation Moonlight, am a huge fan of Will and absolutely admire Jen Knight. Cannot get enough of her and cannot wait for the next book by this incredibly talented author. Please read this amazing book. One of my favourite thrillers of 2015!
Profile Image for Kimberly.
1,934 reviews2 followers
December 2, 2015
3.5 stars.

This is the first novel I have read by author Caroline Mitchell, and overall I was very impressed. This is a stand-alone work, although it was preceded by DON"T TURN AROUND, also starring the character of DC Jennifer knight. Not having read that one yet, I can honestly say that I didn't feel any confusion--or that I was missing any vital information--whatsoever in TIME TO DIE.

Jennifer Knight and her partner, Will, work for the "Operation Moonlight" division--crimes that may involve the supernatural in some way. I found it fascinating to learn about the different abilities members of this section were reputed to have. Jennifer has a "psychic link" with a man who--literally--gives killer Tarot card readings. While he prefers to go by the moniker, Raven, it is clear in the very beginning who the man is. The novel is more about the journey--the how and why--he got to this point.

While the action was great, and I loved the parts pertaining to the Raven's past, the story did "over explain" things a bit too much in areas. There were times when entire scenes were completely retold (immediately afterwards) from another character's point-of-view. When there are only two characters involved in the scene to begin with, a passing acknowledgment from the other party would have been more than sufficient, in my humble opinion. Also, Jennifer makes references to her own troubled past--quite interesting the first time--but again, repetition of the same facts throughout the novel tend to make a reader want to "tune out" those sections after a while.

Overall though, I really enjoyed the idea behind the novel, and the writing itself. If some of the repetitive and unnecessary parts were cut out, this could be a very tightly woven supernatural thriller. I would certainly read another book by this author in the future.

*I received an e-copy of this book from NegGalley in exchange for an honest review.*
Profile Image for Samantha Curtis.
243 reviews20 followers
September 25, 2015
Well well well. A very interesting read for me. Not just a new author for me to try but i new genre to try. I have not really been into supernatural books but god this book as changed my mind.

After a series of killings around Haven detective Jennifer Knight gets called on the case. Turns out they are chasing a tarot card reading that are predicting peoples death as they dont deserve a second chance after doing something bad in the past.

The tarot card reader goes by the name *the raven* you know when there is supernatural present as the sky is covered in ravens. Sounds very chilling.

It soon come to where Jennifer Knight is looking for her boyfriend and detective partner when she pulls out all the stops to find him. The powers she has comes to life. but will she make it in time to save him?

I really did enjoy this book, very much. I was surprised at the twists, when it felt so obvious what happen, just to be curved a twist. Very well written and will be reading more from this author

Would just like to thank the author and publisher on netgalley for free copy of this book in exchange for a honest review
Profile Image for Janet.
3,312 reviews24 followers
November 23, 2015
The thing I enjoyed most about this book is that the identity of the killer is not hidden. This still made it all the more creepy and won me over. Very well written with a supernatural element added to the mix. I felt the use of tarot cards was quite clever and hope there will be future books along these lines by this author. This is worth the read if you love suspense filled novels.
Profile Image for Wendy.
600 reviews43 followers
September 20, 2015
Time To Die is devilishly chilling. To the tempo of Caroline Mitchell’s words, the ordinary becomes the extraordinary, resulting in yet another phenomenal read.

Following her run-in with The Grim Reaper in Don’t Turn Around (Book 1) the determined DC Jennifer Knight is settling in to her new role in Operation Moonlight; a squad of hand-picked detectives forming a team to solve the most inconceivable crimes.

Primarily, the police fight to keep order in our world, but what do you do when the suspects are committing crimes using skills they honed from beyond it? The team from Haven constabulary combines trained officers, whose duty it is to uphold the law by targeting these paranormal parasites.

They have their fair share of hoaxes and time wasters, until occasionally they face a menace more evil than they could ever imagine.
Under the watchful eye of DI Ethan Cole the team is already investigating a cult like group when they are called to attend an apparent suicide, but all is not as it seems and the incident shows up on their radar. They are deployed to apply their specialist skills, which includes the odd psychic ability coupled with some damn fine police work, to find a link to the victim and a mysterious tarot reader who recently predicted his death.

Coincidence? Maybe. That is until more incidents mount up, including one that touches an acquaintance of our Jennifer Knight. Still the team are no closer to tracing the culprit responsible; as well as having a talent for predicting what the future has in store for our victims, our supernatural psycho can also conceal himself incredibly well and stay one step ahead of the game.

As the race to catch a killer is on, ravens are drawn to our DC Knight. They gather on rooftops to cast a disapproving eye over her progress and unnerve her further with their mocking caws. Well, they do call a group of ravens an unkindness, which is apt under the circumstances. Our fortune teller, who has an affinity for these threatening, feathered creatures, is creepily-insane and targets a certain class of person with his malevolent deeds. If The Raven asks if you’d like a reading, your future is already looking pretty bleak…

Time To Die is an awesome crime thriller, laced with an impressive supernatural essence. What you’ll discover is a thoroughly gripping story to sink your teeth into, one where you’re guaranteed a shock that will unveil itself in the most unexpected way.

It’s safe to say I’d happily recommend it.

(Huge thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for providing a digital copy of this book for review.)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 234 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.