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Sawmill Springs
Homicide detective Mandi Murphy had seen enough bloodshed on the streets of Houston to last a lifetime. After a botched drug bust left a friend dead, she wanted out of the city. Peaceful little Sawmill Springs seemed like the perfect spot to start over. Six weeks on patrol proved the town to be as quiet and serene as she’d imagined.
When things soured between FBI agent Kayla Dixon and her lover, she was ready for a change from the fast paced life she was living. Her father, the Police Chief in Sawmill Springs, offered her a job and she decided a change of pace was just what she needed. Her wish for slow and peaceful didn’t materialize, however, as mere hours after she starts her first shift, a prominent citizen is gunned down.
The two women are thrust together to solve the murder and return Sawmill Springs to the sleepy small town the residents expect. As the investigation grows, so does their attraction. There’s just one problem—Murphy thinks Kayla is straight. Kayla admits to a failed marriage when she was eighteen and an ambiguous affair with another FBI agent convinces Murphy to steer clear of her. Kayla’s innocent flirting is met with skepticism and doubt…and temptation.
Another murder not only strengthens their bond as partners but has them fighting to escape the clutches of a murderer. No longer able to ignore the budding attraction between them, they must decide if they are willing to start over…this time, together.
When things soured between FBI agent Kayla Dixon and her lover, she was ready for a change from the fast paced life she was living. Her father, the Police Chief in Sawmill Springs, offered her a job and she decided a change of pace was just what she needed. Her wish for slow and peaceful didn’t materialize, however, as mere hours after she starts her first shift, a prominent citizen is gunned down.
The two women are thrust together to solve the murder and return Sawmill Springs to the sleepy small town the residents expect. As the investigation grows, so does their attraction. There’s just one problem—Murphy thinks Kayla is straight. Kayla admits to a failed marriage when she was eighteen and an ambiguous affair with another FBI agent convinces Murphy to steer clear of her. Kayla’s innocent flirting is met with skepticism and doubt…and temptation.
Another murder not only strengthens their bond as partners but has them fighting to escape the clutches of a murderer. No longer able to ignore the budding attraction between them, they must decide if they are willing to start over…this time, together.
7 pages, Audible Audio
First published June 22, 2017
46 people are currently reading
345 people want to read
About the author
Gerri Hill
56 books1,537 followersGerri began writing lesbian romance as a way to amuse herself while snowed in one winter in the mountains of Colorado, and hasn’t looked back. Her first published work came in 2000 with One Summer Night. Many more romances have followed, with the occasional murder mystery in the mix.
Gerri’s love of nature and of being outdoors usually makes its way into her stories as her characters often find themselves in beautiful natural settings. When she isn’t writing, Gerri and her longtime partner, Diane, can be found at their home in East Texas, where their vegetable garden, orchard, and five acres of woods keep them busy. They share their lives with an ever-changing cast of furry friends.
Her favorite pastimes include camping, hiking, birdwatching (though she insists she doesn’t wear funny hats yet!), photography, and cooking. She collects things nature offers, like an unusual pinecone, colorful rocks, or an abandoned bird feather. Dawn is her favorite time of day, the moment right before sunrise...
"I love the morning... the beginning of a brand new day. Because even things that we know are unattainable flutter within our grasp. In the early morning—at that cusp of a new day—everything is possible."
Gerri’s love of nature and of being outdoors usually makes its way into her stories as her characters often find themselves in beautiful natural settings. When she isn’t writing, Gerri and her longtime partner, Diane, can be found at their home in East Texas, where their vegetable garden, orchard, and five acres of woods keep them busy. They share their lives with an ever-changing cast of furry friends.
Her favorite pastimes include camping, hiking, birdwatching (though she insists she doesn’t wear funny hats yet!), photography, and cooking. She collects things nature offers, like an unusual pinecone, colorful rocks, or an abandoned bird feather. Dawn is her favorite time of day, the moment right before sunrise...
"I love the morning... the beginning of a brand new day. Because even things that we know are unattainable flutter within our grasp. In the early morning—at that cusp of a new day—everything is possible."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
July 15, 2017
“Sawmill Springs” presents one of the better police murder mysteries I’ve listened to in lesfic! It was quite fun having MCs Murphy and Kayla get to know and trust each other, flirt with each other, and eventually….well, I don’t want to give everything away! I will, though, share a favorite quote:
Despite that steamy discussion (we didn’t get to enjoy that particular tryst with them), there’s relatively little explicit action in the book - I wouldn’t have minded more! For 70% of the book, Audrey is under the mistaken impression that Kayla is straight - reasonable, I guess, considering Kayla had been married, and initially didn’t describe her more recent relationship as being with a woman. Murphy is therefore confused by Kayla’s blatant flirting, and despite her attraction to Kayla she’s not inclined to start anything with a straight girl.
Even after Kayla straightens Murphy out (heh, heh), the book continues to focus on solving the murder mystery, and it’s not until we’re 85% into the book that they finally kiss, and err, enjoy each other.
As MCs, both Murphy and Kayla are likable, and the insta-attraction to each other is surprising, considering the build-up of Murphy hating the FBI (Kayla just retired from the Bureau), and Kayla fresh off, and still regretting, having had a relationship with a fellow Agent. Still, given that I was anticipating much angst that would be overcome, I was happy to have them hit it off and work well together right away.
Kayla’s father Earl is Police Chief in Sawmill Springs, and faced with the town’s first murder in seven years, recognizes that former Houston homicide Detective Murphy and his daughter, former FBI agent, have the most experience and puts them in charge of the investigation. Earl is a good ol’ boy, but is considerate to his officers and a good father, though he wishes Kayla were straight. Though he doesn’t like lesbians, he hired Murphy knowing she’s gay because she was the best candidate available. Later in the book, Earl’s decisions became a bit good ol’ boy cartoonish as the murder case progressed, but by then Murphy and Kayla were enjoying each other so I paid less attention to Earl.
The other book characters had significantly smaller parts, but fit in well with the theme of a small town (population 4,500) in Texas. Kindhearted and gossipy seemed to be the predominant traits. Even the local police officers never showed any antipathy toward Murphy (they suspect she’s gay) or Kayla (they know she’s the Chief’s daughter) during the murder investigations. The only woman at the sheriff’s department is lesbian too, by the way. If I ever get pulled over by a female cop, I certainly hope it’s in Sawmill Springs!
Nicol Zanzarella narrated “Sawmill Springs”, and did a terrific job with both male and female voices, and did a great drawl for Earl in particular. For some, this could very well be a 5* book - it’s fun and entertaining. For me, the inconsistencies of why the MCs instantly like, respect and are attracted to each other given that their personal histories were specifically created to create conflict, and the overly accepting good ol’ boys in the police department, created just enough eye rolls that I can’t quite assign it 5*, despite being so fun. Therefore, it’s a 4.45*, solid 4* GR recommendation from me!
”Sex with you is so much fun. I never thought I’d like handcuffs.”
“Don’t you EVER tell your father [the police chief] that!”
Despite that steamy discussion (we didn’t get to enjoy that particular tryst with them), there’s relatively little explicit action in the book - I wouldn’t have minded more! For 70% of the book, Audrey is under the mistaken impression that Kayla is straight - reasonable, I guess, considering Kayla had been married, and initially didn’t describe her more recent relationship as being with a woman. Murphy is therefore confused by Kayla’s blatant flirting, and despite her attraction to Kayla she’s not inclined to start anything with a straight girl.
Even after Kayla straightens Murphy out (heh, heh), the book continues to focus on solving the murder mystery, and it’s not until we’re 85% into the book that they finally kiss, and err, enjoy each other.
As MCs, both Murphy and Kayla are likable, and the insta-attraction to each other is surprising, considering the build-up of Murphy hating the FBI (Kayla just retired from the Bureau), and Kayla fresh off, and still regretting, having had a relationship with a fellow Agent. Still, given that I was anticipating much angst that would be overcome, I was happy to have them hit it off and work well together right away.
Kayla’s father Earl is Police Chief in Sawmill Springs, and faced with the town’s first murder in seven years, recognizes that former Houston homicide Detective Murphy and his daughter, former FBI agent, have the most experience and puts them in charge of the investigation. Earl is a good ol’ boy, but is considerate to his officers and a good father, though he wishes Kayla were straight. Though he doesn’t like lesbians, he hired Murphy knowing she’s gay because she was the best candidate available. Later in the book, Earl’s decisions became a bit good ol’ boy cartoonish as the murder case progressed, but by then Murphy and Kayla were enjoying each other so I paid less attention to Earl.
The other book characters had significantly smaller parts, but fit in well with the theme of a small town (population 4,500) in Texas. Kindhearted and gossipy seemed to be the predominant traits. Even the local police officers never showed any antipathy toward Murphy (they suspect she’s gay) or Kayla (they know she’s the Chief’s daughter) during the murder investigations. The only woman at the sheriff’s department is lesbian too, by the way. If I ever get pulled over by a female cop, I certainly hope it’s in Sawmill Springs!
Nicol Zanzarella narrated “Sawmill Springs”, and did a terrific job with both male and female voices, and did a great drawl for Earl in particular. For some, this could very well be a 5* book - it’s fun and entertaining. For me, the inconsistencies of why the MCs instantly like, respect and are attracted to each other given that their personal histories were specifically created to create conflict, and the overly accepting good ol’ boys in the police department, created just enough eye rolls that I can’t quite assign it 5*, despite being so fun. Therefore, it’s a 4.45*, solid 4* GR recommendation from me!
August 3, 2018
I have read most books by Gerri Hill and enjoyed nearly all of them. Ms. Hill is a skilful writer so I was looking forward to reading this book. I'm glad I did.
Sawmill Springs is a light mystery / romance that happens in a fictional little town mentioned in the book title. The main characters are Murphy, a former Houston police detective, the epitome of dark, tall and mysterious, and beautiful blonde Kayla, an allegedly straight ex FBI agent. They meet in their new jobs as officers at the Sawmill Springs police department both looking for a quiet uneventful service. When the murders start, they realise that is not going to happen and as the investigation progresses so does their mutual attraction.
Despite this is not a fast paced, page-turner thriller, the plot has interesting twists and turns that keeps the reader hooked. The romance part is skillfully written with funny dialogues and good chemistry.
Overall, an entertaining light read, Gerri Hill fans won't be disappointed. 4 stars.
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
See all my reviews at
www.lezreviewbooks.com
Sawmill Springs is a light mystery / romance that happens in a fictional little town mentioned in the book title. The main characters are Murphy, a former Houston police detective, the epitome of dark, tall and mysterious, and beautiful blonde Kayla, an allegedly straight ex FBI agent. They meet in their new jobs as officers at the Sawmill Springs police department both looking for a quiet uneventful service. When the murders start, they realise that is not going to happen and as the investigation progresses so does their mutual attraction.
Despite this is not a fast paced, page-turner thriller, the plot has interesting twists and turns that keeps the reader hooked. The romance part is skillfully written with funny dialogues and good chemistry.
Overall, an entertaining light read, Gerri Hill fans won't be disappointed. 4 stars.
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
See all my reviews at
www.lezreviewbooks.com
July 21, 2017
This is a little ripper from Hill.
The characters are smart and capable. One is a former FBI agent and the other is a former detective. Both choose to move to a small town and join the local police force. There is a lot of flirting, and quite a bit of heat between them, which is always fun to read.
There is also a crime thriller that runs through the book as well. This gives the two main characters the impetus to engage with one another, which also puts them both in some peril. Both aspects of the book are really well handled by Hill, who manages both the crime elements and the romantic elements well, and the mix is perfect.
This is just a really well put together book. I thoroughly enjoyed it for the light crime/romance that it is.
The characters are smart and capable. One is a former FBI agent and the other is a former detective. Both choose to move to a small town and join the local police force. There is a lot of flirting, and quite a bit of heat between them, which is always fun to read.
There is also a crime thriller that runs through the book as well. This gives the two main characters the impetus to engage with one another, which also puts them both in some peril. Both aspects of the book are really well handled by Hill, who manages both the crime elements and the romantic elements well, and the mix is perfect.
This is just a really well put together book. I thoroughly enjoyed it for the light crime/romance that it is.
October 13, 2017
When I see Gerri Hill's name, I think the "Big Gun" writer for Bella. She has written over 30 books and has had a long, successful career. When a new book by Hill comes out, I get excited. I especially enjoy her crime/cops/agents type books. When I found out this book was about small town police officers, yes please!
This story is about Mandi "Murphy", an ex homicide detective from Houston, who moves to the small town of Sawmill Springs. Murphy was worn out from her last job, and was looking forward to the quiet pace of a small town. She hears news that another women officer is joining their small force. It is Kayla, the Chief's daughter and ex FBI agent. When a murder rocks the small town, Murphy and Kayla, the most experience, are put on the case. Murphy has a bad past with the FBI. Can they work together to bring down the killer, before it's too late?
I really enjoyed this book. It reminded me of what I consider a "classic" Hill book. You are instantly drawn into the story, and don't want to put the book down. The pacing of this book really works. It is not a thriller, but it keeps you on your toes. I was into it, following along, trying to figure out who the murderer is. I just liked the overall feel of the book.
Both main character are likeable. Hill writes good cops and agent characters, she always has. My only small complaint, I could have used a little more chemistry between the mains. It is there, I just would have liked a little more. Although, I understand that is not always easy when your characters are trying to solve a murder. Anyway, I still liked the characters together, and was hoping for a HEA or at least a HFN.
I don't know if Hill has plans to make this a series, but for me it screams for one. I loved the small town setting, with gossipy side characters. Plus I want more with Murphy and Kayla. I really hope we will see a book 2. If you are a fan of Hill, or enjoy books with cops, don't pass this up. It's a good read, and I really enjoyed it.
An ARC was given to me by Bella, for a honest review.
This story is about Mandi "Murphy", an ex homicide detective from Houston, who moves to the small town of Sawmill Springs. Murphy was worn out from her last job, and was looking forward to the quiet pace of a small town. She hears news that another women officer is joining their small force. It is Kayla, the Chief's daughter and ex FBI agent. When a murder rocks the small town, Murphy and Kayla, the most experience, are put on the case. Murphy has a bad past with the FBI. Can they work together to bring down the killer, before it's too late?
I really enjoyed this book. It reminded me of what I consider a "classic" Hill book. You are instantly drawn into the story, and don't want to put the book down. The pacing of this book really works. It is not a thriller, but it keeps you on your toes. I was into it, following along, trying to figure out who the murderer is. I just liked the overall feel of the book.
Both main character are likeable. Hill writes good cops and agent characters, she always has. My only small complaint, I could have used a little more chemistry between the mains. It is there, I just would have liked a little more. Although, I understand that is not always easy when your characters are trying to solve a murder. Anyway, I still liked the characters together, and was hoping for a HEA or at least a HFN.
I don't know if Hill has plans to make this a series, but for me it screams for one. I loved the small town setting, with gossipy side characters. Plus I want more with Murphy and Kayla. I really hope we will see a book 2. If you are a fan of Hill, or enjoy books with cops, don't pass this up. It's a good read, and I really enjoyed it.
An ARC was given to me by Bella, for a honest review.
June 29, 2017
This author has to be one of my all time favourite lesfic novelists. She always produces well crafted and often emotional and interesting plots.
However, while this book is highly readable it did feel a little like popcorn - sweet, but no substance. Also, as a Brit, I have to wonder at the quality of the US police enforcement. Is this indicative of what actually happens? Gosh I really hope not.
Will I read the next book from this author, of course!
However, while this book is highly readable it did feel a little like popcorn - sweet, but no substance. Also, as a Brit, I have to wonder at the quality of the US police enforcement. Is this indicative of what actually happens? Gosh I really hope not.
Will I read the next book from this author, of course!
May 18, 2018
When homicide detective Mandi Murphy (just call me Murphy) switched hectic Houston for peaceful Sawmill Springs she imagined saying goodbye to heavy crime and embrace a more sedate life.
FBI agent Kayla Dixon had similar motives when she returned to her small hometown to join her father, the Police Chief in Sawmill Springs, who kept a spot open for her all these years.
Murphy (not too keen on FBI because of reasons) is far from happy when Kayla joins her on the job. It also doesn’t help the boss’s daughter is drop dead gorgeous… and straight. Or is she?
She doesn’t have much time to ponder this because suddenly murder comes to town and it leaves the Sawmill Springs police force woefully unprepared. So it’s time for her and Kayla to join forces to make sense of it all (very much to daddy’s chagrin).
Romance clearly takes a backseat if you consider the girls first kiss occurs at the 86% mark. Book Club Buddie D., however, was happy as a pig in excrement as she is a big fan of the procedural/cop/crime genre and has read many Gerri Hill (as where I have read just the few). So it was all good!
f/f the foolin’ around only happens in the last few chapters (but at least y’all are getting some).
Themes: I wanted to slap that police chief upside the head a few times as he is a particular brand of stubborn, the overall tone of the book is light in spite of the body count.
4 stars
FBI agent Kayla Dixon had similar motives when she returned to her small hometown to join her father, the Police Chief in Sawmill Springs, who kept a spot open for her all these years.
Murphy (not too keen on FBI because of reasons) is far from happy when Kayla joins her on the job. It also doesn’t help the boss’s daughter is drop dead gorgeous… and straight. Or is she?
She doesn’t have much time to ponder this because suddenly murder comes to town and it leaves the Sawmill Springs police force woefully unprepared. So it’s time for her and Kayla to join forces to make sense of it all (very much to daddy’s chagrin).
Romance clearly takes a backseat if you consider the girls first kiss occurs at the 86% mark. Book Club Buddie D., however, was happy as a pig in excrement as she is a big fan of the procedural/cop/crime genre and has read many Gerri Hill (as where I have read just the few). So it was all good!
f/f the foolin’ around only happens in the last few chapters (but at least y’all are getting some).
Themes: I wanted to slap that police chief upside the head a few times as he is a particular brand of stubborn, the overall tone of the book is light in spite of the body count.
4 stars
July 15, 2017
Gerri Hill is one of my favorite go to writers. She has beautiful style and while every book might not be a 5 star it’s almost guaranteed a four star, that saying something pretty spectacular, right? That you can rely completely on her books being quality reads time and time again.
Mandi Murphy moves from Houston to Sawmill Springs after a horrible case goes wrong and ends up resulting in the death of a friend. She decides a slower pace is needed and she takes a job offer in sleepy Sawmill Springs. Expecting to give traffic tickets and break up the occasional bar fight, Murphy no way expects to start her career with a murder case that continues to escalate daily.
Kayla Dixon is the Police Chief’s daughter, she just happens to be a former FBI agent as well. Kayla leaves Dallas to escape a terrible breakup and the frantic pace of the FBI. Her dad offers her a job on his staff and she jumps at the chance to come home. Thank goodness she does, because Murphy and Kayla are the only officers in town that can handle a killer on the loose.
Kayla and Murphy are partnered together. They both are new on the Sawmill Springs police force to solve a multiple murder case. This case is one with very little clues, and a whole town frightened by the turn of events. As the case increases in intensity, so does their friendship and attraction.
This one is a great murder mystery with a heavy dose of romance. The interaction between our two mains is cute and the dialogue is well written and believable. A really good story, my only complaint, and it is pretty small, it I wish just a little more time was spent on the mains interacting with each other outside of solving the case. Take that chemistry up one notch and it would have been stellar. 4 stars
Mandi Murphy moves from Houston to Sawmill Springs after a horrible case goes wrong and ends up resulting in the death of a friend. She decides a slower pace is needed and she takes a job offer in sleepy Sawmill Springs. Expecting to give traffic tickets and break up the occasional bar fight, Murphy no way expects to start her career with a murder case that continues to escalate daily.
Kayla Dixon is the Police Chief’s daughter, she just happens to be a former FBI agent as well. Kayla leaves Dallas to escape a terrible breakup and the frantic pace of the FBI. Her dad offers her a job on his staff and she jumps at the chance to come home. Thank goodness she does, because Murphy and Kayla are the only officers in town that can handle a killer on the loose.
Kayla and Murphy are partnered together. They both are new on the Sawmill Springs police force to solve a multiple murder case. This case is one with very little clues, and a whole town frightened by the turn of events. As the case increases in intensity, so does their friendship and attraction.
This one is a great murder mystery with a heavy dose of romance. The interaction between our two mains is cute and the dialogue is well written and believable. A really good story, my only complaint, and it is pretty small, it I wish just a little more time was spent on the mains interacting with each other outside of solving the case. Take that chemistry up one notch and it would have been stellar. 4 stars
July 1, 2017
What a lovely story!
Loved the book . Loved the characters of Murphy and Kayla. The supporting cast was equally very good. I'm hopeful there will be a sequel with possibly Gloria as the main character. I liked the suspense of the murder mystery and the humor between the two women. Overall, the book is well done!
Loved the book . Loved the characters of Murphy and Kayla. The supporting cast was equally very good. I'm hopeful there will be a sequel with possibly Gloria as the main character. I liked the suspense of the murder mystery and the humor between the two women. Overall, the book is well done!
August 16, 2017
A safe bet. Hill is one of my favorite authors.
This story isn't as exciting as for example the Hunter series, but it's an very enjoyable read.
It would be great to learn more about the two main characters and how they'll work together. Maybe their will be a continuation.
I liked very much the two main characters. They are loveable, with an interessting past as a detective and an FBI agent in big cities. Now they are looking for the quiet pace of a small town.
Put together on a case, Murphy has to overcome her distrust of FBI agents and to work hand in hand with Kayla. With the beautiful and sexy Kayla. Can they work together? The crime case has an interessting and exciting plot, with a murder I didn't see in the first place.
4 stars for this book. I'm always looking forward the new storys of Gerri Hill
This story isn't as exciting as for example the Hunter series, but it's an very enjoyable read.
It would be great to learn more about the two main characters and how they'll work together. Maybe their will be a continuation.
I liked very much the two main characters. They are loveable, with an interessting past as a detective and an FBI agent in big cities. Now they are looking for the quiet pace of a small town.
Put together on a case, Murphy has to overcome her distrust of FBI agents and to work hand in hand with Kayla. With the beautiful and sexy Kayla. Can they work together? The crime case has an interessting and exciting plot, with a murder I didn't see in the first place.
4 stars for this book. I'm always looking forward the new storys of Gerri Hill
April 25, 2018
Really Like it.
Very nice MC two independent, smart and beautiful women, the chemistry was there and I liked the banter between the girls.
The mystery was interesting enough, the girls show how a police procedure should be done. (They should have let them manage everything)
Although I'm not a fan of sequels, I will love to have more of this characters.
Reccomended to Romance and Mystery fans.
Very nice MC two independent, smart and beautiful women, the chemistry was there and I liked the banter between the girls.
The mystery was interesting enough, the girls show how a police procedure should be done. (They should have let them manage everything)
Although I'm not a fan of sequels, I will love to have more of this characters.
Reccomended to Romance and Mystery fans.
August 30, 2017
Great read
A true Gerri Hill original, a great plot, awesome characters, a twist in the end, some humour and some hot scenes! This makes for me a great read!
A true Gerri Hill original, a great plot, awesome characters, a twist in the end, some humour and some hot scenes! This makes for me a great read!
February 26, 2019
Three stars for the book and four stars for the audio. Police Chief Earl whatever his surname is, is an ass. In both formats.
February 20, 2019
This is for the audible version of this book. This narrator was fantastic! One of the best I have listened to!
January 2, 2018
You've gotta love a Gerri Hill book.
July 30, 2024
Sawmill Springs by Gerri Hill is another captivating novel from one of my favourite authors. The story centres on Mandi "Murphy," an ex-homicide detective from Houston who moves to the small town of Sawmill Springs for a quieter life. She teams up with Kayla, the Chief's daughter and an ex-FBI agent, to solve a murder that disrupts the town's peace.
I enjoyed the book's pacing, reminiscent of a classic Hill novel. The mystery unfolds steadily, keeping me hooked as Murphy and Kayla work together despite their complex pasts. The chemistry between the protagonists is well-developed, though I wished for a bit more depth in their interactions.
Gerri Hill excels in creating likable, well-rounded characters, and Sawmill Springs is no exception. Murphy and Kayla are compelling leads whose partnership and growing attraction add a layer of romance to the intriguing murder investigation. This book is a must-read for fans of light mysteries with a touch of romance.
Also, I'd be remiss if I didn't mention my enjoyment of Nicol Zanzarella's narration. It added depth to the characters, and I really enjoyed the audiobook experience.
I enjoyed the book's pacing, reminiscent of a classic Hill novel. The mystery unfolds steadily, keeping me hooked as Murphy and Kayla work together despite their complex pasts. The chemistry between the protagonists is well-developed, though I wished for a bit more depth in their interactions.
Gerri Hill excels in creating likable, well-rounded characters, and Sawmill Springs is no exception. Murphy and Kayla are compelling leads whose partnership and growing attraction add a layer of romance to the intriguing murder investigation. This book is a must-read for fans of light mysteries with a touch of romance.
Also, I'd be remiss if I didn't mention my enjoyment of Nicol Zanzarella's narration. It added depth to the characters, and I really enjoyed the audiobook experience.
August 4, 2017
Wasn't as good as the last audio book I got by Gerri Hill and narrated by Nicol Zanzarella. (The Roundabout). However I enjoyed the story and the narration was good. I try not to compare too much, but I really liked The roundabout and was hoping for that same magic.
August 8, 2018
Yet another great mystery/romance by Gerri Hill. I loved the characters and the way the mystery played out. It had a nice twist to it. And the romance was great.
June 12, 2022
5 stars
I liked this one.
It was one of Hill's better works in my opinion.
Which doesn't mean much.
Even a subpar Gerri Hill book is still good.
I liked this one.
It was one of Hill's better works in my opinion.
Which doesn't mean much.
Even a subpar Gerri Hill book is still good.
July 31, 2017
3.5 stars.
Gerri Hill's police dramas are my favorites from her. I always really love the characters and the interplay between them. This one is no different. Murphy and Kayla are great, and they have amazing chemistry between them. I hope Hill writes other books about them.
My one major complaint about this one is the wrap up of the police case. It was a really great story, but once the officers figured out "whodunnit," so to speak, none of the actions they took made any sense. At least in terms of actual police work. And the way it was all written seemed to actually reduce the tension for the reader, which seems an odd choice to me.
Still, a solid book, as always from Hill.
Gerri Hill's police dramas are my favorites from her. I always really love the characters and the interplay between them. This one is no different. Murphy and Kayla are great, and they have amazing chemistry between them. I hope Hill writes other books about them.
My one major complaint about this one is the wrap up of the police case. It was a really great story, but once the officers figured out "whodunnit," so to speak, none of the actions they took made any sense. At least in terms of actual police work. And the way it was all written seemed to actually reduce the tension for the reader, which seems an odd choice to me.
Still, a solid book, as always from Hill.
May 23, 2017
Another good read by Gerri Hill. If you liked her other books, you'll like this one.
July 15, 2018
Keeps you guessing
I wasn't sure if I wanted to read this book if I'm perfectly honest. But I'd heard so many people speak positively of it I thought I'd give it a go. I'm glad I did.
It is a mystery with a twist. One I did not guess straight away. So my compliments to the author you had me fooled several times.
I can't say too much or I'll give the game away. What I can tell you is that it is a well told story by an exceptional author.
Hill takes you on a journey that is full of twists and turns and its not only the main plot. T h e characters are pretty likable and have their own stories to tell. All in all I really enjoyed it.
It keeps you guessing from start to finish. Enjoy I did.
I wasn't sure if I wanted to read this book if I'm perfectly honest. But I'd heard so many people speak positively of it I thought I'd give it a go. I'm glad I did.
It is a mystery with a twist. One I did not guess straight away. So my compliments to the author you had me fooled several times.
I can't say too much or I'll give the game away. What I can tell you is that it is a well told story by an exceptional author.
Hill takes you on a journey that is full of twists and turns and its not only the main plot. T h e characters are pretty likable and have their own stories to tell. All in all I really enjoyed it.
It keeps you guessing from start to finish. Enjoy I did.
July 17, 2019
Audible version this time for a re read. Great narration and production.
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June 19, 2020I can see why Geri Hill is so popular. She is able to write to a formula that she has perfected over the years. But a formula is no good without good writing, good characters, and a good plot. And Sawmill Springs has all of these. Not only that, but Hill—at least in the two books I have read by her—manages to add in a slant to the story. In Hunter’s Way it is the fact that Tori Hunter, the bitchy, work-obsessed protagonist, has never had a friend. In Sawmill Springs, it is more complicated.
Hill gives her two protagonists equal space. Mandi Murphy is an ex-Homicide Detective from Houston who decided to move to calmer pastures when a drug bust went wrong. Kayla Dixon is an ex-FBI agent who also decided to choose the quieter life of Sawmill Springs, Texas, where her father is police chief. The slant is that these two women—the only two women in the unit—are the only ones that have any experience in actually investigating homicides. So when a murder occurs the day of Kayla’s first day on the job, she and Murphy (don’t call her Mandi unless you want to experience the “death stare”) are given the job of solving it. And they do a great job; that is, they would have done a great job if Kayla’s father hadn’t taken over the investigation and given them bullshit orders.
The good news is that it is the Chief’s orders send them into a dangerous (and contrived) situation, so that they actually didn’t walk into it like some other detectives I could name. Luckily, they come out of it unscathed and are able to do the groundwork that results in clearing up the crimes.
Because both Murphy and Kayla have equal importance in the novel, Hill gives both point-of-view chapters. Interestingly, when they are together, the POV sometimes fluctuates from one to the other. I’m not sure I mind this much. The only problem is that the two POVs are so similar I wasn’t always sure who was talking or thinking. So, yes, I liked both characters, but I wish they were just a little more differentiated.
Like Hunter’s Way,, this novel is competently, but not artistically written. It has a good mix of characters, a nice budding romance, and a few too manly romantic clichés. In short, it is probably a quintessentially perfect book for the beach or long airplane trip. Give it somewhere between a 3 and a 4.
Note: I read a review copy of this book, which was kindly provided by the publisher through Lesbrary in e-book form sometime in April, 2017.
Another Note: This review is included in my book The Art of the Lesbian Mystery Novel, along with information on over 930 other lesbian mysteries by over 310 authors.
Hill gives her two protagonists equal space. Mandi Murphy is an ex-Homicide Detective from Houston who decided to move to calmer pastures when a drug bust went wrong. Kayla Dixon is an ex-FBI agent who also decided to choose the quieter life of Sawmill Springs, Texas, where her father is police chief. The slant is that these two women—the only two women in the unit—are the only ones that have any experience in actually investigating homicides. So when a murder occurs the day of Kayla’s first day on the job, she and Murphy (don’t call her Mandi unless you want to experience the “death stare”) are given the job of solving it. And they do a great job; that is, they would have done a great job if Kayla’s father hadn’t taken over the investigation and given them bullshit orders.
The good news is that it is the Chief’s orders send them into a dangerous (and contrived) situation, so that they actually didn’t walk into it like some other detectives I could name. Luckily, they come out of it unscathed and are able to do the groundwork that results in clearing up the crimes.
Because both Murphy and Kayla have equal importance in the novel, Hill gives both point-of-view chapters. Interestingly, when they are together, the POV sometimes fluctuates from one to the other. I’m not sure I mind this much. The only problem is that the two POVs are so similar I wasn’t always sure who was talking or thinking. So, yes, I liked both characters, but I wish they were just a little more differentiated.
Like Hunter’s Way,, this novel is competently, but not artistically written. It has a good mix of characters, a nice budding romance, and a few too manly romantic clichés. In short, it is probably a quintessentially perfect book for the beach or long airplane trip. Give it somewhere between a 3 and a 4.
Note: I read a review copy of this book, which was kindly provided by the publisher through Lesbrary in e-book form sometime in April, 2017.
Another Note: This review is included in my book The Art of the Lesbian Mystery Novel, along with information on over 930 other lesbian mysteries by over 310 authors.
July 6, 2017
This book is about as interesting as a tin of asparagus.
September 24, 2020
An unexpected murder mystery. I had fun reading along looking for the clues Gerri Hill puts in the story to lead up to the killer. I love watching the interactions and relationship between the two MCs.
A sleepy little town gets turned upside down after a murder at the local gas station. After a sting, at her last job, leads to loss of a friend Murphy decided she was ready for a change. She’s tired of death and murder. She takes a job with the sheriffs department in Sawmill Springs. Kayla is ready to leave the FBI and return home, to her hometown and to a job working with her dad the Sheriff. Even though they are the two newest deputies on the payroll, they have the most experience and lead the investigation on the killing of president of the local bank. More murders occur as they fight the local gossip, low resources, and they ways of the good old boys to figure out who is killing and why. As they work on the case they also get to know one another and open up to each other on their pasts and what lead them to Sawmill Springs.
I love them.
A sleepy little town gets turned upside down after a murder at the local gas station. After a sting, at her last job, leads to loss of a friend Murphy decided she was ready for a change. She’s tired of death and murder. She takes a job with the sheriffs department in Sawmill Springs. Kayla is ready to leave the FBI and return home, to her hometown and to a job working with her dad the Sheriff. Even though they are the two newest deputies on the payroll, they have the most experience and lead the investigation on the killing of president of the local bank. More murders occur as they fight the local gossip, low resources, and they ways of the good old boys to figure out who is killing and why. As they work on the case they also get to know one another and open up to each other on their pasts and what lead them to Sawmill Springs.
I love them.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 24, 2025
She is such a good writer, Gerri Hill, I always feel safe in her hands and really enjoy her stories. This doesn’t disappoint. Recommended.
July 25, 2017
4.5 stars
I enjoyed this book. I was travelling when I read it, so finished quickly. It was well paced and remained interesting. Some good character development, but is very much a plot driven story.
The whodunnit is solid and the romance is very sweet, though slow. A few misunderstandings were cringeworthy in that second-hand embarrassment kind of way, but forgivable.
Finishing Sawmill Springs left me feeling a little like leaving the cinema after an action flick: pure entertainment without much brain strain which is exactly what I was looking for when I started.
I enjoyed this book. I was travelling when I read it, so finished quickly. It was well paced and remained interesting. Some good character development, but is very much a plot driven story.
The whodunnit is solid and the romance is very sweet, though slow. A few misunderstandings were cringeworthy in that second-hand embarrassment kind of way, but forgivable.
Finishing Sawmill Springs left me feeling a little like leaving the cinema after an action flick: pure entertainment without much brain strain which is exactly what I was looking for when I started.
June 24, 2017
I loved it, I couldn't put it down and I finished it in a day. THAT is a great book. Beautifully written characters, excellent dialogue, plenty of drama to keep you gripped throughout and humor to make you smile. What more could you possibly want. Buy it, read it, you won't be disappointed.
January 28, 2019
So, I restarted my Scribd subscription and jumped right into this one from Gerri Hill (a go to author for butch/femme characters for me). I really enjoyed this book and the two MCs, Kayla and Murphy. I will say the policing procedure in this small town annoyed yhe heck out of me, especially the Chief. The book did leave me with a couple of questions...the biggest one is who was in the truck that Murphy and Kayla passed when walking and why didn't they feel safe enough to stop the driver? Also, did they find the money?
I enjoyed the book. It wasn't an edge of the seat murder myster thriller type but it had just enough for my liking. A solid 4.5 stars...
I enjoyed the book. It wasn't an edge of the seat murder myster thriller type but it had just enough for my liking. A solid 4.5 stars...
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March 16, 20193.75 to 4*. I really enjoy this book! Firstly, I love books with cops. Add in the small-town vibe and a well-written story, and I'm sold. Murphy and Kayla moved to Sawmill Springs for their own personal reasons. Thinking mostly to escape the big-city problems like murders and such. Of course, whaddaya know, someone is murdered and their expertise is promptly needed. The romance is okay. Somewhat fast to my liking but it's a short book. Mostly I like how small-town life is portrayed. Now, I've always lived in big cities. However, I do harbor a wish to move to a nice, peaceful small town someday.
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