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Canaan Crime #3
The Names Of Dead Girls
New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Eric Rickstad delivers the electrifying sequel to The Silent Girls, and features once again detectives Frank Rath and Sonja Test as they track a depraved killer through rural Vermont.
Every murder tells a story. Some stories never end . . .
In a remote northern Vermont town, college student Rachel Rath is being watched. She can feel the stranger’s eyes on her, relentless and possessive. And she’s sure the man watching her is the same man who killed her mother and father years ago: Ned Preacher, a serial rapist and murderer who gamed the system to get a light sentence. Now, he’s free.
Detective Frank Rath adopted Rachel, his niece, after the shocking murder of her parents when she was a baby. Ever since, Rath’s tried to protect her from the true story of her parents’ deaths. But now Preacher is calling Rath to torment him. He’s threatening Rachel and plotting cruelties for her, of the flesh and of the mind. When other girls are found brutally murdered, and a woman goes missing, Rath and Detective Sonja Test must untangle the threads that tie these new crimes and some long-ago nightmares together. Soon they will learn that the truth is more perverse than anyone could guess, rife with secrets, cruel desires, and warped, deadly loyalty.
Mesmerizing, startling, and intricately plotted, The Names of Dead Girls builds relentlessly on its spellbinding premise, luring readers into its dark and macabre mystery, right to its shocking end.
Every murder tells a story. Some stories never end . . .
In a remote northern Vermont town, college student Rachel Rath is being watched. She can feel the stranger’s eyes on her, relentless and possessive. And she’s sure the man watching her is the same man who killed her mother and father years ago: Ned Preacher, a serial rapist and murderer who gamed the system to get a light sentence. Now, he’s free.
Detective Frank Rath adopted Rachel, his niece, after the shocking murder of her parents when she was a baby. Ever since, Rath’s tried to protect her from the true story of her parents’ deaths. But now Preacher is calling Rath to torment him. He’s threatening Rachel and plotting cruelties for her, of the flesh and of the mind. When other girls are found brutally murdered, and a woman goes missing, Rath and Detective Sonja Test must untangle the threads that tie these new crimes and some long-ago nightmares together. Soon they will learn that the truth is more perverse than anyone could guess, rife with secrets, cruel desires, and warped, deadly loyalty.
Mesmerizing, startling, and intricately plotted, The Names of Dead Girls builds relentlessly on its spellbinding premise, luring readers into its dark and macabre mystery, right to its shocking end.
449 pages, ebook
First published September 12, 2017
490 people are currently reading
4852 people want to read
About the author
Eric Rickstad
14 books1,050 followersEric Rickstad is a New York Times and International bestselling novelist.
His latest novel, LILITH, will be published on March 19, 2024.
His previous novel, I AM NOT WHO YOU THINK I AM, was a New York Times Thriller of the Year.
He also wrote WHAT REMAINS OF HER, REAP, and The Canaan Crime Series — LIE IN WAIT, THE SILENT GIRLS, and THE NAMES OF DEAD GIRLS— which has sold more than a half million copies worldwide.
He lives in Vermont.
His latest novel, LILITH, will be published on March 19, 2024.
His previous novel, I AM NOT WHO YOU THINK I AM, was a New York Times Thriller of the Year.
He also wrote WHAT REMAINS OF HER, REAP, and The Canaan Crime Series — LIE IN WAIT, THE SILENT GIRLS, and THE NAMES OF DEAD GIRLS— which has sold more than a half million copies worldwide.
He lives in Vermont.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 313 reviews
May 10, 2018
I loved THE SILENT GIRLS and I was worried that I might be expecting too much from this one, but it turned out to be another superb read. This guy can write and his stories are never predictable, so he ticks all the right boxes.
Retired detective Frank Rath adopted his niece, Rachel, when she was only six months old and her parents were brutally murdered. Now, sixteen years later, Ned Preacher gets paroled. And he's set his eyes on Rachel, who has left home for college.
Soon after Preacher's release, a dead girl is discovered. She was tortured and hanged. Could this be the parolee...and is it linked to some killings across the border in Canada?
There was another serial killer sixteen years ago, known as the CRVK (Connecticut River Valley
Killer), and the only surviving victim disappears. The main suspect the police had killed his family and himself, and since the killings stopped, most accepted that he must have been the right guy. But it was right around the time Preacher was locked up, and Frank always had a suspicion that Preacher may have been CRVK all along.
Will Rath catch him in the act or find some evidence to lock Preacher back up, before he can get to Rachel?
There are twists and turns in this story, but I can't fault the author for anything. This is exactly what I love to read. I think that fans of Michael Connelly should give this guy a go, if they haven't yet.
The only thing I want to warn you about is:
Try to read these Canaan books in order - they work well as stand alone's, but there is a lot of information about the previous books, and it might just ruin some really great twists. And, believe me, you will want to read them.
Well done, Mr. Rickstad, I've become a huge fan!
Retired detective Frank Rath adopted his niece, Rachel, when she was only six months old and her parents were brutally murdered. Now, sixteen years later, Ned Preacher gets paroled. And he's set his eyes on Rachel, who has left home for college.
Soon after Preacher's release, a dead girl is discovered. She was tortured and hanged. Could this be the parolee...and is it linked to some killings across the border in Canada?
There was another serial killer sixteen years ago, known as the CRVK (Connecticut River Valley
Killer), and the only surviving victim disappears. The main suspect the police had killed his family and himself, and since the killings stopped, most accepted that he must have been the right guy. But it was right around the time Preacher was locked up, and Frank always had a suspicion that Preacher may have been CRVK all along.
Will Rath catch him in the act or find some evidence to lock Preacher back up, before he can get to Rachel?
There are twists and turns in this story, but I can't fault the author for anything. This is exactly what I love to read. I think that fans of Michael Connelly should give this guy a go, if they haven't yet.
The only thing I want to warn you about is:
Try to read these Canaan books in order - they work well as stand alone's, but there is a lot of information about the previous books, and it might just ruin some really great twists. And, believe me, you will want to read them.
Well done, Mr. Rickstad, I've become a huge fan!
September 16, 2017
Last month I read the first book in this series, The Silent Girls and really enjoyed it so I’ve been looking forward to The Names of Dead Girls and was really excited to start it. If you haven’t read the first book, here’s your warning to stop reading now because there will be some mild spoilers for the first book.
Things pick up almost immediately where they ended in the last book, Rath is on edge knowing that Preacher is out of prison and taunting him with phone calls and veiled threats. His daughter, Rachel is also on high alert as she keeps getting the feeling that she’s being watched. Rickstad wrote the scenes where Rachel’s being observed in such a chilling manner, I could feel her fear and panic and it made the hairs on the back of my neck stand up.
The characterization in this installment is solid as you learn even more about Rath’s past and also more about his relationship with Rachel. Sonja is also back and her family life plays a role in this story, I think it’ll be interesting to see what happens to her both personally and professionally in the future. I will say that though you could read this as a standalone I wouldn’t recommend it. There are many characters from the first book back again in this one and you would be missing out on some pertinent background information. Plus, it was a really great read.
Rickstad’s writing style is super dark, gritty and disturbing and the atmosphere plays a huge role again. The small Vermont town where this is set is stark and this time its shrouded in fog which added a sense of gloom and doom to a story already full of despair. There is a very strong sense of underlying dread and evil lurking throughout and the tension builds at a steady pace making this a true page turner. I liked this book even more than the first one and am very eager to see what happens next.
All of my reviews can be found on www.novelgossip.com
Things pick up almost immediately where they ended in the last book, Rath is on edge knowing that Preacher is out of prison and taunting him with phone calls and veiled threats. His daughter, Rachel is also on high alert as she keeps getting the feeling that she’s being watched. Rickstad wrote the scenes where Rachel’s being observed in such a chilling manner, I could feel her fear and panic and it made the hairs on the back of my neck stand up.
The characterization in this installment is solid as you learn even more about Rath’s past and also more about his relationship with Rachel. Sonja is also back and her family life plays a role in this story, I think it’ll be interesting to see what happens to her both personally and professionally in the future. I will say that though you could read this as a standalone I wouldn’t recommend it. There are many characters from the first book back again in this one and you would be missing out on some pertinent background information. Plus, it was a really great read.
Rickstad’s writing style is super dark, gritty and disturbing and the atmosphere plays a huge role again. The small Vermont town where this is set is stark and this time its shrouded in fog which added a sense of gloom and doom to a story already full of despair. There is a very strong sense of underlying dread and evil lurking throughout and the tension builds at a steady pace making this a true page turner. I liked this book even more than the first one and am very eager to see what happens next.
All of my reviews can be found on www.novelgossip.com
August 21, 2017
Twisted and disturbing, you'll wake with THE NAMES OF DEAD GIRLS on your mind long after putting this book down.
My thanks to the author and publisher for an advance copy of his wonderful novel.
My thanks to the author and publisher for an advance copy of his wonderful novel.
November 6, 2017
I won this novel in a goodreads drawing.
A young lady thinks somebody is watching her all the time. It turns out, her parents were killed by a notorious mass murderer. Her police detective uncle has tried to protect her for her entire life.
Then the phone calls start...
Not bad,but I don't feel the need to seek out Canaan Crime #1 or 2, either.
A young lady thinks somebody is watching her all the time. It turns out, her parents were killed by a notorious mass murderer. Her police detective uncle has tried to protect her for her entire life.
Then the phone calls start...
Not bad,but I don't feel the need to seek out Canaan Crime #1 or 2, either.
August 29, 2021
A very atmospheric story and a definite page turner. The author keeps the characters believable...the story was tight with few to no unnecessary parts. It's fast paced and it was nice to see some of the bad guys get their due at the hands of their victims. The dialogue was a tad weak but still interesting and easy to follow. If you are a James Patterson fan you will surely love this authors' offerings.
May 18, 2019
Good story with lots of characters (sometimes hard to keep everyone straight) but was a really fast read and had a surprising outcome that was really good!
October 1, 2017
This is a mystery that couples a parent’s worst nightmare with brutal crimes committed upon young girls. As a detective races to find a released murderer in order to protect his daughter, he finds that there might be more than one mystery he needs to solve before his worst nightmare finally be laid to rest.
This is a relentless read, the pace is rapid-fire, with high tension and drama. Most of the characters are vividly created, with a villain that is chilling and believable. The crimes mentioned in the book commonly occur and I was glad to see an author addressing the issue head-on (you’ll have to read the book if you want to know what those crimes are…no spoilers here).
The book was well-written and gripped me by the throat and held me there until I finished the book. The grip was so tight, I read the book in one sitting. This is an outstanding read that I recommend for those who love a good crime story or who are searching for a great writer of thrilling mysteries.
This is a relentless read, the pace is rapid-fire, with high tension and drama. Most of the characters are vividly created, with a villain that is chilling and believable. The crimes mentioned in the book commonly occur and I was glad to see an author addressing the issue head-on (you’ll have to read the book if you want to know what those crimes are…no spoilers here).
The book was well-written and gripped me by the throat and held me there until I finished the book. The grip was so tight, I read the book in one sitting. This is an outstanding read that I recommend for those who love a good crime story or who are searching for a great writer of thrilling mysteries.
September 16, 2017
How can a book this terrible get 4.5 stars on Goodreads? I found the premise unbelievably dumb from page one. A rapist, killer and probable serial killer is freed from jail and almost immediately threatens the daughter of his victims' and another victim from his past. The daughter is stupid personified, refusing take even the most basic precautions to protect herself from harm. After 100 pages of ridiculous plot development and poor writing, I want to throw this book into the fireplace.
March 5, 2018
Excellent sophomore entry in the Canaan crime series involving Frank Rath and his obsession with Ned Preacher, the psychopath who murdered his sister and her husband years ago who's now free from prison. The story includes a search for the person responsible for the murder of another girl found strangled, while other elements from The Silent Girls come into play. It's a nicely complicated police procedural that benefits from Rickstad's tight writing and complex characters. It's definitely a cut above the usual fare in this genre. Moves along at a steady pace as suspects build and character motivations become blurry. A solid resolution involving various inter-related threads leaves me looking forward to the next in the series. Highly recommended but you will need to read The Silent Girls first to understand what is going on here.
October 10, 2017
This is the third book in Eric Rickstad's Canaan Crime series and I've enjoyed reading them all. I recommend it to mystery lovers although I would suggest starting from the beginning of the series as much of this book ties in with the previous ones.
March 27, 2021
This is the first book I have read by this author and it was great. Fast paced and a new twist on every page. Will most definitely read more from this great author
September 13, 2017
This is the first book I have read by this author. I can guarantee that it will not be the last book I read by Mr. Rickstad. This book really can be read as a standalone novel. Yet, if you are like me and have not read the first book, The Silent Girls, you will be picking up a copy afterwards.
Instantly, the intensity was cranked up and it only got better the further I got into the story. The dynamics between Rath and Preacher was very personal. This up'd the ante as Preacher knew how to push Rath's buttons. Yet, Rath had Preacher in his sights and he was just waiting for the right moment to move in for the kill. However, these two men were not the only leading characters in this story. There were two leading ladies as well. Detective Sonja Test and Rath's daughter, Rachel.
Sonja was like a bulldog. She was not afraid to back down from a dangerous situation. Once, she went down a path, she was focused. Rachel could have sat back and let her father protect her but instead she decided to take matters in her own hands. A woman on a mission. The Names of Dead Girls is spine tingling addictive!
Instantly, the intensity was cranked up and it only got better the further I got into the story. The dynamics between Rath and Preacher was very personal. This up'd the ante as Preacher knew how to push Rath's buttons. Yet, Rath had Preacher in his sights and he was just waiting for the right moment to move in for the kill. However, these two men were not the only leading characters in this story. There were two leading ladies as well. Detective Sonja Test and Rath's daughter, Rachel.
Sonja was like a bulldog. She was not afraid to back down from a dangerous situation. Once, she went down a path, she was focused. Rachel could have sat back and let her father protect her but instead she decided to take matters in her own hands. A woman on a mission. The Names of Dead Girls is spine tingling addictive!
April 13, 2021
Another terrific ride filled with suspense, mystery and a plot that leaves you baffled. I loved this second in the series. Once again Rickstad knows how to write. Hoping he writes another one with Rath as the inspector/hero.
July 12, 2017
I love a good mystery/thriller and this certainly is one. It is a fast-paced, well-plotted story that kept me interested start to finish. I especially liked the 'good guys' ... Rath, Test and Grout. Can't wait to see what they will be up to in their next book.
I won a copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway for this honest review.
I won a copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway for this honest review.
May 22, 2022
I am giving it a one because I did manage to finish it. I didn’t appreciate the author using “schizophrenic” as an adjective multiple times. I also didn’t appreciate the subtle dig at trans folks.
The ending felt very rushed as though the author realized he was almost at a page quota and hustle to finish. It is in my donation pile now and I’m glad I only paid $2 at a thrift store for it.
The ending felt very rushed as though the author realized he was almost at a page quota and hustle to finish. It is in my donation pile now and I’m glad I only paid $2 at a thrift store for it.
October 19, 2017
Not the best, not the worst.
May 11, 2018
I really didn't enjoy rhis book. I found it flat and the characters weren't engaging or interesting. It is a huge pity as I wanted to enjoy it
September 13, 2017
The Names of Dead Girls by Eric Rickstad is a highly recommended police procedural/thriller. Detectives Frank Rath and Sonja Test work together again to track a depraved killer through rural Vermont and into Canada. This is a sequel to The Silent Girls, but can be read as a stand alone novel.
Rachel Rath is now a college student and she us being watched. Frank Rath and Rachel are sure the man who is watching her is the same man who killed her parents when she was a baby. Ned Preacher is out on parole now and he has called Frank, threatening Rachel. Frank has tried to protect his niece/adopted daughter from the horrifying details of her parents death, but now Rachel wants to know - and she may need to since Preacher is planning to harm her.
When Dana Clark, a woman who was the only survivor of an attack by the Connecticut River Valley Killer, goes missing, and another girl is found murdered, Frank Rath leaves retirement and works again with Sonja Test to investigate the murders and try to figure out if it is the Preacher or someone else. They are looking at old cases along with the new ones to try and piece together the information they need to find the killer. This includes withing with Canadian police detective Inspector Gerard Champine. Apparently there have been similar murder cases in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu.
The writing is excellent and there are several twists to the plot. Rickstad does an excellent job developing his characters while ratcheting up the suspense as the murder investigation is underway. The ever present, oppressive fog is both a character and a setting in The Names of Dead Girls. The heavy fog infiltrates the whole book and creates a foreboding atmosphere that, in turn, increases the tension you feel when reading. The Preacher and the heavy fog are both very creepy.
This is a nail biter, full of suspense, and should hold your attention from start to finish. It did feel like the actual procedural part, the detective work, was slightly lacking and it would have been nice to see more of the steps and the discovery as it all pertained to the investigation. While the main investigation is solved, there are still a few unanswered questions that may point to another book in the series.
Disclosure: My review copy was courtesy of HarperCollins.
http://www.shetreadssoftly.com/2017/0...
Rachel Rath is now a college student and she us being watched. Frank Rath and Rachel are sure the man who is watching her is the same man who killed her parents when she was a baby. Ned Preacher is out on parole now and he has called Frank, threatening Rachel. Frank has tried to protect his niece/adopted daughter from the horrifying details of her parents death, but now Rachel wants to know - and she may need to since Preacher is planning to harm her.
When Dana Clark, a woman who was the only survivor of an attack by the Connecticut River Valley Killer, goes missing, and another girl is found murdered, Frank Rath leaves retirement and works again with Sonja Test to investigate the murders and try to figure out if it is the Preacher or someone else. They are looking at old cases along with the new ones to try and piece together the information they need to find the killer. This includes withing with Canadian police detective Inspector Gerard Champine. Apparently there have been similar murder cases in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu.
The writing is excellent and there are several twists to the plot. Rickstad does an excellent job developing his characters while ratcheting up the suspense as the murder investigation is underway. The ever present, oppressive fog is both a character and a setting in The Names of Dead Girls. The heavy fog infiltrates the whole book and creates a foreboding atmosphere that, in turn, increases the tension you feel when reading. The Preacher and the heavy fog are both very creepy.
This is a nail biter, full of suspense, and should hold your attention from start to finish. It did feel like the actual procedural part, the detective work, was slightly lacking and it would have been nice to see more of the steps and the discovery as it all pertained to the investigation. While the main investigation is solved, there are still a few unanswered questions that may point to another book in the series.
Disclosure: My review copy was courtesy of HarperCollins.
http://www.shetreadssoftly.com/2017/0...
June 20, 2017
I received a free uncorrected proof copy of this book via the Goodreads Giveaways program and would like to thank everyone who made that possible!
I loved the first book in this series and this one was every bit as good if not better. Both are fast-paced and suspenseful with lots of twists and turns that keep you guessing until the end...and the ending of this one is so good! I also love the idyllic Vermont setting. There were a few minor typos here and there but nothing major and hopefully they will be cleaned up for the finished book. Frank Rath is a great character and I can't wait for the next installment of this series!
I loved the first book in this series and this one was every bit as good if not better. Both are fast-paced and suspenseful with lots of twists and turns that keep you guessing until the end...and the ending of this one is so good! I also love the idyllic Vermont setting. There were a few minor typos here and there but nothing major and hopefully they will be cleaned up for the finished book. Frank Rath is a great character and I can't wait for the next installment of this series!
January 18, 2021
This sequel was everything it should and could have been!! It was suspenseful, intriguing, and downright good!
September 15, 2017
This is a very belated review as life got in the way (two knee surgeries, deadlines, getting married (yeah, you read that right!)). I wish I was able to post this sooner to further express how much I adored the novel.
Eric Rickstad’s THE NAMES OF DEAD GIRLS was a haunting sequel to his hugely successful THE SILENT GIRLS. As a reader, it’s a delightful page-turner. As a writer, it’s a textbook along with everything he’s written. I’m going to try to avoid spoilers, but read with caution. There might be some light spoilers for THE SILENT GIRLS, which needs to be brought up in order to really properly talk about THE NAMES OF DEAD GIRLS.
THE SILENT GIRLS was a fiercely brutal novel revolving primarily around Rath’s PTSD and self-loathing. After the heart-pounding climax, Rickstad took the time to write an open ending, a little ominous plot twist. Where many writers would fail in this endeavor, this is possibly what took THE SILENT GIRLS to the next level—that tiny, unexpected moment where the reader’s only response is, “Holy shit!”
Since that moment, I’ve aggressively read all of Rickstad’s novels as both a fan of his writing and as an emerging author who is moving towards the thriller/suspense genre.
Rickstad made a very interesting decision with THE NAMES OF DEAD GIRLS to have the novel revolve around Rachel Rath about the same amount, if not more, than Frank Rath (although many might assume this is his story instead of hers). The sequel explores the changes with power dynamic—a young woman who’s learning the truth about her past, one Rath sheltered her from in part to protect her but, more in actuality, to protect himself with some really classic examples of PTSD. But possibly more interesting than the shift in protagonist was the decision Rickstad did with his pacing.
This is why I refer to this work as textbook.
After the heart-pounding conclusion of THE SILENT GIRLS, most readers would expect a super heart-pounding read from the beginning to the end. While in theory that sounds nice, if Rickstad were to make that decision (like many writers would) the book wouldn’t have been successful. Instead, we’re brought quickly into the story to discover their assumptions are built from paranoia. The pace slows down a fraction then (it’s still a page-turner), which at first seems curious… until you get to part two and realize exactly *why* Rickstad made the pacing decision. It hits you in the chest. Hard. From that point, any reader would be hooked. The amount of restraint that Rickstad used is something that many writers can’t do. Most would jump at the chance to go running. But it’s because of this restraint that the novel is as powerful as it is. The impact wouldn’t have been the same if the pace was even a fraction faster.
Possibly the most impressive part might have been the ending. There were so many ways that Rickstad could have taken this story, there were endings that we might guess would occur. Instead, we see a series of lies, of cover-ups, the way paranoia grows, letting down one’s guard at the wrong moment, making a fateful decision, breaking ethics and the law. The subtle ending possibly shows the reader Rath’s humanity and his sense of justice. We recognize that he knew the conclusion for quite some time and danced around it before making a decision that was based on his needs. He recognizes this. He fights with himself—to punish or not to punish—then decides. This leaves the reader with an extremely satisfying ending as we’ve rooted for Rath for quite some time.
I definitely recommend THE NAMES OF DEAD GIRLS (make sure to read THE SILENT GIRLS first as there are a lot of nods to that and the motivations will be clearer) and suggest any reader take the time to carefully read the Author’s Note that’s equally chilling and heartbreaking. Take time with this book--allow yourself to go for the ride and trust that process. Enjoy it.
Thanks to Eric Rickstad for the ARC. It's been such a treat to read, and I can't wait until your next book, whether standalone or in this wonderful universe.
Eric Rickstad’s THE NAMES OF DEAD GIRLS was a haunting sequel to his hugely successful THE SILENT GIRLS. As a reader, it’s a delightful page-turner. As a writer, it’s a textbook along with everything he’s written. I’m going to try to avoid spoilers, but read with caution. There might be some light spoilers for THE SILENT GIRLS, which needs to be brought up in order to really properly talk about THE NAMES OF DEAD GIRLS.
THE SILENT GIRLS was a fiercely brutal novel revolving primarily around Rath’s PTSD and self-loathing. After the heart-pounding climax, Rickstad took the time to write an open ending, a little ominous plot twist. Where many writers would fail in this endeavor, this is possibly what took THE SILENT GIRLS to the next level—that tiny, unexpected moment where the reader’s only response is, “Holy shit!”
Since that moment, I’ve aggressively read all of Rickstad’s novels as both a fan of his writing and as an emerging author who is moving towards the thriller/suspense genre.
Rickstad made a very interesting decision with THE NAMES OF DEAD GIRLS to have the novel revolve around Rachel Rath about the same amount, if not more, than Frank Rath (although many might assume this is his story instead of hers). The sequel explores the changes with power dynamic—a young woman who’s learning the truth about her past, one Rath sheltered her from in part to protect her but, more in actuality, to protect himself with some really classic examples of PTSD. But possibly more interesting than the shift in protagonist was the decision Rickstad did with his pacing.
This is why I refer to this work as textbook.
After the heart-pounding conclusion of THE SILENT GIRLS, most readers would expect a super heart-pounding read from the beginning to the end. While in theory that sounds nice, if Rickstad were to make that decision (like many writers would) the book wouldn’t have been successful. Instead, we’re brought quickly into the story to discover their assumptions are built from paranoia. The pace slows down a fraction then (it’s still a page-turner), which at first seems curious… until you get to part two and realize exactly *why* Rickstad made the pacing decision. It hits you in the chest. Hard. From that point, any reader would be hooked. The amount of restraint that Rickstad used is something that many writers can’t do. Most would jump at the chance to go running. But it’s because of this restraint that the novel is as powerful as it is. The impact wouldn’t have been the same if the pace was even a fraction faster.
Possibly the most impressive part might have been the ending. There were so many ways that Rickstad could have taken this story, there were endings that we might guess would occur. Instead, we see a series of lies, of cover-ups, the way paranoia grows, letting down one’s guard at the wrong moment, making a fateful decision, breaking ethics and the law. The subtle ending possibly shows the reader Rath’s humanity and his sense of justice. We recognize that he knew the conclusion for quite some time and danced around it before making a decision that was based on his needs. He recognizes this. He fights with himself—to punish or not to punish—then decides. This leaves the reader with an extremely satisfying ending as we’ve rooted for Rath for quite some time.
I definitely recommend THE NAMES OF DEAD GIRLS (make sure to read THE SILENT GIRLS first as there are a lot of nods to that and the motivations will be clearer) and suggest any reader take the time to carefully read the Author’s Note that’s equally chilling and heartbreaking. Take time with this book--allow yourself to go for the ride and trust that process. Enjoy it.
Thanks to Eric Rickstad for the ARC. It's been such a treat to read, and I can't wait until your next book, whether standalone or in this wonderful universe.
June 19, 2017
Eric Rickstad has written another tour de force with The Names of Dead Girls. I've been a big fan since his first book (Reap) and he has never disappointed me. While we all probably get visions of maple syrup and ski resorts whenever we think of Vermont, Rickstad takes us deeper into the woods and behind closed doors to reveal that the baser instincts that are uncontrollable in some people find their way into the Green Mountain state as well. His evil doers in TNODG are both frightening and disturbingly real, while the characters who hunt them down are easy to relate to and struggle with many of the same challenges that we do. All of this makes it a joy to read this book, as do the surprising twists. In the end, we get an enormously satisfying answer to the main question raised at the beginning of the story, but at the same time Rickstad leaves a couple of other questions unanswered, leaving me at least waiting anxiously for the next installment in this great series. I was given an ARC by the publisher in exchange for this review.
November 11, 2017
the book was fantastic. first time reading rickstad and i can totally say he is the male counterpart of karin slaughter. i love how you just keep guessing what's the next thing that could happen. suspect everyone. it did get confusing at times as there is a lot of *spoiler* murders going on but you can easily catch on. i do want more Frank Rath books!
March 11, 2018
OMG, this book is sooo good! I was sucked in from the first page and was never disappointed. A good cast of characters with multiple twists that I wasn’t expecting. A must read!
July 26, 2018
Amiche del Confine,
il week end si avvicina e per chi non è ancora in ferie, o quelle ferie le ha già finite, è sempre un motivo di giubilo!
E allora cosa ne pensate se vi proponessi una lettura per allietarlo?
Oggi vi parlerò di un thriller targato Newton Compton, che ringrazio tanto: “La donna senza nome" di Eric Rickstad.
Frank Rath è un ex detective che ha lasciato la polizia quando ha trovato i corpi della sorella e del cognato martoriati in maniera macabra.
Il serial killer, autore di quel quadro di sangue, non aveva preso la vita, però, della nipotina Rachel, ancora in fasce, che Frank ha adottato.
A distanza di quasi vent'anni, Frank riceve una telefonata da quel serial killer, Ned Preacher, arrestato ai tempi e ora in libertà, che lo avvisa che presto verrà a prendere Rachel, dicendo che è sua figlia.
Nel frattempo cominciano efferati omicidi, corpi di giovani donne trovati nel bosco, tutte uccise nello stesso modo, che riportano a Preacher, ma anche ad un altro serial killer attivo nello stesso periodo di Preacher prima del suo arresto, che si credeva morto in un incendio. Inoltre, una delle vittime è legata ad un altro caso di omicidio nel quale sono implicati una ragazza di nome Abby e un ricco uomo del luogo, Boyd Pratt, e la moglie.
Per Frank è un enorme rompicapo.
Vuole che sia Preacher l'autore di quei nuovi omicidi perché vuole arrestarlo per sempre per vendicare la sorella e il cognato, ma sa che deve avere delle prove e con tutti questi strani collegamenti sarà difficile trovarle.
In più ha la preoccupazione di Rachel; non vuole che venga a sapere che Preacher potrebbe essere il padre perché la ragazza ne sarebbe irrimediabilmente distrutta.
Aiutato da una collega, Sonja Test, si inoltrerà nei boschi del Vermont, che nascondono orribili segreti, per portare alla luce una verità veramente inaspettata e a tratti desolante.
Tralasciando il titolo inutile che non suggerisce nulla, ma anzi depista, perché non c'è nessuna donna senza nome nel romanzo, questa storia mi ha preso veramente, ma veramente tanto.
Il romanzo è composto da ben 92 capitoli divisi in cinque parti. Il narratore è esterno per cause di forza maggiore, visto che la storia deve abbracciare diversi punti di vista e il lettore deve poter passare da uno all'altro con fluidità.
Lo stile è elegante ma non pomposo, parecchio descrittivo, per cui a volte può risultare lento, ma non infastidisce molto, né rallenta troppo il ritmo di lettura.
"La donna senza nome" è il secondo volume di una serie che ha come protagonista l'ex detective Frank Rath. Può essere letto indipendentemente dal primo, in quanto in comune i due romanzi hanno solo Rath e i luoghi in cui si svolgono le storie. Per il resto, sono stand-alone.
I personaggi che interagiscono in questa storia sono veramente tanti e questo è uno dei motivi per cui, durante la lettura, avrete molti sospetti ma nessuna certezza.
Lo scrittore è stato veramente bravo a seminare indizi qui e lì senza metterli troppo in evidenza, ma allo stesso tempo lasciandoli in bella vista.
Sin dai primi capitoli, i lettori più attenti potrebbero farsi una certa domanda, come me la sono fatta io, che, non trovando nessuna risposta, mi sono lasciata trascinare dagli eventi macabri e ad alta tensione e ho perso il punto.
In questo boschi fitti e oscuri, nulla è veramente come ci appare, nessuno è chi o come dice di essere e, molto spesso, le vittime possono rivelarsi sanguinari carnefici.
Lasciatevi avvolgere dalla terrificante nebbia del Vermont e accompagnate Rath e Sonja nei meandri della mente dell'assassino, non ne rimarrete delusi.
il week end si avvicina e per chi non è ancora in ferie, o quelle ferie le ha già finite, è sempre un motivo di giubilo!
E allora cosa ne pensate se vi proponessi una lettura per allietarlo?
Oggi vi parlerò di un thriller targato Newton Compton, che ringrazio tanto: “La donna senza nome" di Eric Rickstad.
Frank Rath è un ex detective che ha lasciato la polizia quando ha trovato i corpi della sorella e del cognato martoriati in maniera macabra.
Il serial killer, autore di quel quadro di sangue, non aveva preso la vita, però, della nipotina Rachel, ancora in fasce, che Frank ha adottato.
A distanza di quasi vent'anni, Frank riceve una telefonata da quel serial killer, Ned Preacher, arrestato ai tempi e ora in libertà, che lo avvisa che presto verrà a prendere Rachel, dicendo che è sua figlia.
Nel frattempo cominciano efferati omicidi, corpi di giovani donne trovati nel bosco, tutte uccise nello stesso modo, che riportano a Preacher, ma anche ad un altro serial killer attivo nello stesso periodo di Preacher prima del suo arresto, che si credeva morto in un incendio. Inoltre, una delle vittime è legata ad un altro caso di omicidio nel quale sono implicati una ragazza di nome Abby e un ricco uomo del luogo, Boyd Pratt, e la moglie.
Per Frank è un enorme rompicapo.
Vuole che sia Preacher l'autore di quei nuovi omicidi perché vuole arrestarlo per sempre per vendicare la sorella e il cognato, ma sa che deve avere delle prove e con tutti questi strani collegamenti sarà difficile trovarle.
In più ha la preoccupazione di Rachel; non vuole che venga a sapere che Preacher potrebbe essere il padre perché la ragazza ne sarebbe irrimediabilmente distrutta.
Aiutato da una collega, Sonja Test, si inoltrerà nei boschi del Vermont, che nascondono orribili segreti, per portare alla luce una verità veramente inaspettata e a tratti desolante.
Tralasciando il titolo inutile che non suggerisce nulla, ma anzi depista, perché non c'è nessuna donna senza nome nel romanzo, questa storia mi ha preso veramente, ma veramente tanto.
Il romanzo è composto da ben 92 capitoli divisi in cinque parti. Il narratore è esterno per cause di forza maggiore, visto che la storia deve abbracciare diversi punti di vista e il lettore deve poter passare da uno all'altro con fluidità.
Lo stile è elegante ma non pomposo, parecchio descrittivo, per cui a volte può risultare lento, ma non infastidisce molto, né rallenta troppo il ritmo di lettura.
"La donna senza nome" è il secondo volume di una serie che ha come protagonista l'ex detective Frank Rath. Può essere letto indipendentemente dal primo, in quanto in comune i due romanzi hanno solo Rath e i luoghi in cui si svolgono le storie. Per il resto, sono stand-alone.
I personaggi che interagiscono in questa storia sono veramente tanti e questo è uno dei motivi per cui, durante la lettura, avrete molti sospetti ma nessuna certezza.
Lo scrittore è stato veramente bravo a seminare indizi qui e lì senza metterli troppo in evidenza, ma allo stesso tempo lasciandoli in bella vista.
Sin dai primi capitoli, i lettori più attenti potrebbero farsi una certa domanda, come me la sono fatta io, che, non trovando nessuna risposta, mi sono lasciata trascinare dagli eventi macabri e ad alta tensione e ho perso il punto.
In questo boschi fitti e oscuri, nulla è veramente come ci appare, nessuno è chi o come dice di essere e, molto spesso, le vittime possono rivelarsi sanguinari carnefici.
Lasciatevi avvolgere dalla terrificante nebbia del Vermont e accompagnate Rath e Sonja nei meandri della mente dell'assassino, non ne rimarrete delusi.
September 13, 2017
NOTE: I received this book free through the Goodreads First Reads program.
The Names of Dead Girls is a good book. Not great, but good, and I enjoyed it. As I reflected on what I might write in a review, I thought immediately of why, every now and again, I’ll still watch an episode, or two, of the television show Law and Order. Although it’s a show that’s been around longer than I’ve been an adult, they have simply nailed the format. It’s a good formula and as the idiom goes, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” Rickstad’s book has that quality. It feels really familiar. Novel, original, or remarkable, no. Enjoyable, absolutely.
The book’s main character, former detective Frank Rath is confronted with Ned Preacher, a recently released murderous ex-con with whom he has a particularly nasty personal history. Preacher’s actions appear to pose a new threat to Rath’s daughter, Rachel. Rath’s attempts to keep Rachel safe, convince police of the possible danger, and recapture Preacher become complicated as new murder victims, and a number of possible suspects, emerge. Rath’s job is further complicated by Rachel’s independent spirit. Rath must rely upon former police department colleagues and associates to solve the case.
The Names of Dead Girls has a good pace. It holds your attention and thus, reads quickly, which is always good. The characters are also relatively likeable. I appreciated how the author made room for female characters to resist male “protection” and domination while at the same time making his alpha male lead (gun toting, deer killin’, relationship phobic Rath) likeable. Finally, I deeply appreciated Rickstad’s “Author’s Note,” an explanation of why he writes this particular genre. It’s a personal story of a young Rickstad being confronted with danger and being stripped of the youthful veil of innocence.
If you are in the mood for a good, suspenseful crime novel, definitely give this a read. I’ll look forward to more Eric Rickstad books, especially when I’m about to board a plane; this will help the time fly by.
The Names of Dead Girls is a good book. Not great, but good, and I enjoyed it. As I reflected on what I might write in a review, I thought immediately of why, every now and again, I’ll still watch an episode, or two, of the television show Law and Order. Although it’s a show that’s been around longer than I’ve been an adult, they have simply nailed the format. It’s a good formula and as the idiom goes, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” Rickstad’s book has that quality. It feels really familiar. Novel, original, or remarkable, no. Enjoyable, absolutely.
The book’s main character, former detective Frank Rath is confronted with Ned Preacher, a recently released murderous ex-con with whom he has a particularly nasty personal history. Preacher’s actions appear to pose a new threat to Rath’s daughter, Rachel. Rath’s attempts to keep Rachel safe, convince police of the possible danger, and recapture Preacher become complicated as new murder victims, and a number of possible suspects, emerge. Rath’s job is further complicated by Rachel’s independent spirit. Rath must rely upon former police department colleagues and associates to solve the case.
The Names of Dead Girls has a good pace. It holds your attention and thus, reads quickly, which is always good. The characters are also relatively likeable. I appreciated how the author made room for female characters to resist male “protection” and domination while at the same time making his alpha male lead (gun toting, deer killin’, relationship phobic Rath) likeable. Finally, I deeply appreciated Rickstad’s “Author’s Note,” an explanation of why he writes this particular genre. It’s a personal story of a young Rickstad being confronted with danger and being stripped of the youthful veil of innocence.
If you are in the mood for a good, suspenseful crime novel, definitely give this a read. I’ll look forward to more Eric Rickstad books, especially when I’m about to board a plane; this will help the time fly by.
October 16, 2017
3.5/5.
The Names of Dead Girls is the third book in Eric Rickstad's Canaan Crime series, and the sequel to The Silent Girls. Picking up immediately where The Silent Girls left off, Ned Preacher has been released from prison for the double murder of Frank Rath's sister and her husband. Rath's niece, Rachel, has noticed a strange man following her, and Rath is convinced that Preacher intends to hurt her next. When an old victim goes missing and Detective Sonja Test discovers another body in the snowy woods, Rath becomes determined to solve the case and stop Preacher from hurting anyone else- especially Rachel.
Similar to the previous two books, Rickstad has created a perfect setting for a crime series in Canaan county. The snowy, foggy and cold Vermont weather steps a creepy atmosphere and creates a great sense of place. In regards to the actual mystery, the author provides the readers with lots of suspense and keeps you guessing, before tying all of the subplots together.
Despite building a great mystery, my only disappointment with this book was that there wasn't as much focus on Rath and Test as characters. The two detectives were the best parts of their previous books, but I didn't feel like this book helped me know them any better. They also didn't get much of a chance to use their detective skills, as almost everything with the case seemed to be handed to them this time.
In all, this book was a satisfying addition to a series that I'll continue reading, and I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys mysteries/thrillers.
The Names of Dead Girls is the third book in Eric Rickstad's Canaan Crime series, and the sequel to The Silent Girls. Picking up immediately where The Silent Girls left off, Ned Preacher has been released from prison for the double murder of Frank Rath's sister and her husband. Rath's niece, Rachel, has noticed a strange man following her, and Rath is convinced that Preacher intends to hurt her next. When an old victim goes missing and Detective Sonja Test discovers another body in the snowy woods, Rath becomes determined to solve the case and stop Preacher from hurting anyone else- especially Rachel.
Similar to the previous two books, Rickstad has created a perfect setting for a crime series in Canaan county. The snowy, foggy and cold Vermont weather steps a creepy atmosphere and creates a great sense of place. In regards to the actual mystery, the author provides the readers with lots of suspense and keeps you guessing, before tying all of the subplots together.
Despite building a great mystery, my only disappointment with this book was that there wasn't as much focus on Rath and Test as characters. The two detectives were the best parts of their previous books, but I didn't feel like this book helped me know them any better. They also didn't get much of a chance to use their detective skills, as almost everything with the case seemed to be handed to them this time.
In all, this book was a satisfying addition to a series that I'll continue reading, and I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys mysteries/thrillers.
September 29, 2017
Mysteries and thrillers have always been at the top of my favorite list for reading material. Unfortunately, it's made me quite numb to a lot of the thrill that authors write. This book is an exception. Eric Rickstad had my skin crawling very early on in the book (in a GOOD way!). I haven't read the first of the series yet - but it's on my purchase list so I feel like I need to go back and read it; then re-read The Names of Dead Girls to get the full-effect. I'm guessing I will be up for days because just the second book, alone, had me reading from cover to cover in just one evening.
Within the first third of the book, I was feeling paranoid, anxious, and almost breathless at times. The intensity is literally bone-chilling deep. In most mysteries/thrillers, I want to put myself in place of the hero but honestly, Preacher was written so intensely that I would count myself out. Each character has a deeply developed personality that makes the story realistic-feeling. The pain and agony felt by victims infiltrates every sense with an increasing pace as each chapter continues.
I'm looking forward to the next book! I received an ARC with no obligation to review. All opinions are 100% my own!
Within the first third of the book, I was feeling paranoid, anxious, and almost breathless at times. The intensity is literally bone-chilling deep. In most mysteries/thrillers, I want to put myself in place of the hero but honestly, Preacher was written so intensely that I would count myself out. Each character has a deeply developed personality that makes the story realistic-feeling. The pain and agony felt by victims infiltrates every sense with an increasing pace as each chapter continues.
I'm looking forward to the next book! I received an ARC with no obligation to review. All opinions are 100% my own!
September 25, 2017
FTC: I received a free copy of this book from Parters In Crime Tours in exchange for my honest review. I received no other compensation and the opinions expressed in this review are one hundred percent true and my own.
The Names of Dead Girls by Eric Rickstad was a great book. This is the second book in this series and the first one that I have read. That being said I didn’t feel lost and I was able to pick right up with what was going on. If you want to read both books, I would read them in order because this book will spoil certain things in the first book if you read this one first. I do know that I will go back and read the first book because I was in love with this book and I want to know what happened in the first book. From the first page of this book I was hooked and didn’t want to stop reading it until I finished the last page. This book had everything that I like for books in this genre to have which is the reason I am still going to go back and read the first book and any other books that he has written or will write in the future. If you love thriller type books than I am sure you will love this book as much as I did.
The Names of Dead Girls by Eric Rickstad was a great book. This is the second book in this series and the first one that I have read. That being said I didn’t feel lost and I was able to pick right up with what was going on. If you want to read both books, I would read them in order because this book will spoil certain things in the first book if you read this one first. I do know that I will go back and read the first book because I was in love with this book and I want to know what happened in the first book. From the first page of this book I was hooked and didn’t want to stop reading it until I finished the last page. This book had everything that I like for books in this genre to have which is the reason I am still going to go back and read the first book and any other books that he has written or will write in the future. If you love thriller type books than I am sure you will love this book as much as I did.
September 10, 2017
I was sent a copy of The Names of Dead Girls in part of a blog tour. My ratings and reviews will be my own personal opinions and are in no way influenced by publishers or authors who may have sent me books to review.
This book is the second in the series, but can be read as a standalone. I did not read book one prior to jumping in. The first few pages were confusing since I did not know the characters from the previous storyline, but the author quickly fills you in on their past. It was easy to put together after that.
I definitely stepped out of my comfort zone for this one, but I am glad I did. I started this one night, which was a big mistake. I did not want to put it down and I also felt like someone was watching me all night. Since I do not normally read scary thrillers, I decided I had to finish this during the day (I am a chicken).
This keeps you guessing and is an intense ride. I wanted to put it down, but did not want to put it down. If you love suspense, you are going to love this. This had my heart racing during certain parts. It did get a little intense at times, but I still really enjoyed it.
Overall, this was definitely not something I would normally read. I am happy to have given it a chance as I really did enjoy it.
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