What do you think?
Rate this book
Berry Springs #6
The Shadow
A gruesome murder linking to a famous painting sends FBI Criminal Profiler Eli Archer down a path of lies, deceit… and infatuation.
Eli Archer has been called many things at the Bureau, but carefree and light-hearted aren’t two of them. As one of the FBI’s top criminal profilers, Eli spends his days inside the minds of sadistic serial killers, and he’s got the brooding eyes and permanently packed suitcase to prove it. Days, murderers, and dead bodies blend together until he gets a call about a homicide that’s shockingly similar to a case that haunts him. He catches the next flight to the small, southern town of Berry Springs even though there’s no way the cases are connected because he already caught the killer… unless he didn’t.
Payton Chase grew up in a family rich in money, dysfunction, and secrets, leaving her with a mountain of cash and emotional brick wall to match. Determined to gain independence from her past, Payton buries herself in work, chasing her dream of becoming a network news anchor. When a young woman is found tortured to death, Payton is certain that this is the opportunity to catapult her into the spotlight… she just has to figure out how to work with the secretive—and incredibly sexy—federal agent who’s on the case.
As Payton's and Eli’s chemistry steams hotter than the heat wave blazing through the mountains, another victim is found that looks eerily like Payton, and Eli fears she may just get her lead story… with her name as the headline.
Praise for the Berry Springs Series:
"The Fog is one of my favorite novels of 2018." -Confessions of an Avid Reader
“The Woods is a sexy, small-town murder mystery that’s guaranteed to resonate with fans of Nora Roberts and Karin Slaughter.” -Best Thrillers
"Amanda McKinney wrote a dark, ominous thrilling tale spiked with a dash of romance and mystery that captivated me from start to finish…” -The Coffeeholic Bookworm
“The Storm is a beautifully written whodunnit, sprinkled with suspense, danger, and hot romance. Kept me guessing who the murderer was. I couldn’t put it down!” —Amazon Customer
The Storm is a *2018 Maggie Award for Excellence Finalist*, *2018 Silver Falchion Finalist*, *2018 Beverley Finalist*, *2018 Golden Leaf Finalist*, and *2018 Passionate Plume Honorable Mention Recipient*
Eli Archer has been called many things at the Bureau, but carefree and light-hearted aren’t two of them. As one of the FBI’s top criminal profilers, Eli spends his days inside the minds of sadistic serial killers, and he’s got the brooding eyes and permanently packed suitcase to prove it. Days, murderers, and dead bodies blend together until he gets a call about a homicide that’s shockingly similar to a case that haunts him. He catches the next flight to the small, southern town of Berry Springs even though there’s no way the cases are connected because he already caught the killer… unless he didn’t.
Payton Chase grew up in a family rich in money, dysfunction, and secrets, leaving her with a mountain of cash and emotional brick wall to match. Determined to gain independence from her past, Payton buries herself in work, chasing her dream of becoming a network news anchor. When a young woman is found tortured to death, Payton is certain that this is the opportunity to catapult her into the spotlight… she just has to figure out how to work with the secretive—and incredibly sexy—federal agent who’s on the case.
As Payton's and Eli’s chemistry steams hotter than the heat wave blazing through the mountains, another victim is found that looks eerily like Payton, and Eli fears she may just get her lead story… with her name as the headline.
Praise for the Berry Springs Series:
"The Fog is one of my favorite novels of 2018." -Confessions of an Avid Reader
“The Woods is a sexy, small-town murder mystery that’s guaranteed to resonate with fans of Nora Roberts and Karin Slaughter.” -Best Thrillers
"Amanda McKinney wrote a dark, ominous thrilling tale spiked with a dash of romance and mystery that captivated me from start to finish…” -The Coffeeholic Bookworm
“The Storm is a beautifully written whodunnit, sprinkled with suspense, danger, and hot romance. Kept me guessing who the murderer was. I couldn’t put it down!” —Amazon Customer
The Storm is a *2018 Maggie Award for Excellence Finalist*, *2018 Silver Falchion Finalist*, *2018 Beverley Finalist*, *2018 Golden Leaf Finalist*, and *2018 Passionate Plume Honorable Mention Recipient*
252 pages, ebook
First published May 21, 2019
532 people are currently reading
242 people want to read
About the author
Amanda McKinney
37 books1,004 followersAmanda McKinney is the Amazon Charts bestselling and multi-award-winning author of more than thirty romance and thriller novels. Her books have received over fifteen literary awards and nominations, including the prestigious Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence, and have been included in lists such as POPSUGAR's 12 Best Romance Books, and featured on the Today Show.
Text AMANDABOOKS to 66866 to receive Amanda's newsletter and get the latest on new releases, promos, and freebies!
www.amandamckinneyauthor.com
Text AMANDABOOKS to 66866 to receive Amanda's newsletter and get the latest on new releases, promos, and freebies!
www.amandamckinneyauthor.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
September 24, 2019
Ok read, but...
the ending was a disappointing conclusion. I didn't really buy who the serial killer was. It felt more like picking a loose end character.
Weird ending with her dad...it takes two kidnappings by a killer for her dad to want to be a better dad? She was kidnapped in the book prior to this one as well. Did her dad just say that killer didn't seem so bad and you weren't physically harmed. So it takes a worse killer and torture to wake her dad up?
Felt like loose ends were rushed or not even resolved.
the ending was a disappointing conclusion. I didn't really buy who the serial killer was. It felt more like picking a loose end character.
Weird ending with her dad...it takes two kidnappings by a killer for her dad to want to be a better dad? She was kidnapped in the book prior to this one as well. Did her dad just say that killer didn't seem so bad and you weren't physically harmed. So it takes a worse killer and torture to wake her dad up?
Felt like loose ends were rushed or not even resolved.
Want to read
March 24, 2025🎁 FREE on Amazon today (3/6/2020)! 🎁
January 8, 2022
4.5 stars. Excellent romantic suspense! Lots of red herrings and a great back story re the serial killer. The romance is slow burn with one or two steamy scenes that are well written, but this books is all about the suspense, not the romance. This one can be read as a stand alone (re the murders and the H/h), but I'm reading this series in order, as there are some reoccurring characters and it's always good to get a handle on the town and the area in which these books are set. Loved it.
May 5, 2019
Once again murder and intrigue abound in the picturesque Berry Springs. This continuing series has captured my imagination and I look forward to each new story with eager anticipation. The Shadow focuses on FBI Agent Eli Archer and his hunt for a sadistic serial killer who viciously tortures his victims before killing them. The love interest is provided by the alluring journalist Payton Chase, who bears an unsettling likeness to the victims.
This latest book in the series held me in its grasp from the first page and I devoured it in one afternoon. Amanda McKinney certainly knows how to produce a page-turner. Her characters are flawed and genuinely likable, the story moves at a fast pace and the ending, ultimately had me on the edge of my seat.
This latest book in the series held me in its grasp from the first page and I devoured it in one afternoon. Amanda McKinney certainly knows how to produce a page-turner. Her characters are flawed and genuinely likable, the story moves at a fast pace and the ending, ultimately had me on the edge of my seat.
August 4, 2019
This series keeps getting better and better! I loved Payton and Eli and very much enjoyed the mystery.
May 22, 2019
Absolutely Fantastic! 5 ⭐️ read and then some. This author was fairly new to me but I am a fan now! I’m not much of a dark romance reader especially crime drama but this author has me addicted to her stories. This book is so compelling and engaging, I could not put it down. There are some parts I’m pretty sure I stopped breathing altogether! This series is based in Berry Springs, a small town with vibrant characters. Amanda meticulously created a whole town of people - you can’t help but feel it’s a real place. This story is about Peyton, an investigative TV reporter who’s looking for ‘the story’ that will give her the main slot on TV and Criminal Profiler Eli Archer. Eli is brought in when the town realizes a serial killer is on the loose in Berry springs and if not bad enough, he tortures women in the most heinous fashion. He makes sure they suffer for many hours. His method is unspeakably cruel, disgusting and despicable. We are talking about pure evil. I don’t want to give anything away so I’ll just say this is a suspenseful ride like no other. I am usually a woos when it comes to these reads but even though it scared the crap out of me at times, the storyline keeps you engaged and I couldn’t put it down. The author balances the evil nature of the story with a romance and secondary characters you want to read about. I don’t read this genre but I find this whole series completely addictive and can not wait to read more. Well done!
September 8, 2019
A thrilling twisty, turny murder mystery with a side of romance
I very much enjoyed this murder mystery, even though it’s not my usual kind of read. Special Agent Eli Archer is everything you could want in a hero — dedicated, brave, smart, and smoking hot. I also loved Payton who, despite being a trust fund baby, was anything but spoiled and helpless.
The crime under investigation takes the forefront to this story, with a gruesome serial killer claiming another young, beautiful woman’s life in the most brutal of ways. (Side note, I was very thankful there was no sexual assault component, as that’s a no-go for me). I enjoyed the thorough and authentic treatment of the investigation, the involvement of those in Berry Springs, and the inclusion of multiple subplots that kept you guessing as to each character’s motivations.
The writing was excellent, the plot suitably twisty and turny, and even though the killer was on my list of suspects, by the time I finished this thrilling ride I’d actually completely forgotten they were even on the list in the first place. Such is the fantastic story telling; you can’t help but be completely absorbed, needing to know what happens next. I wish the romance aspect was more developed throughout so that we had a bit more of a lead up to the conclusion, but the one steamy scene was fantastically done, and I couldn’t have been happier with the ending. Definitely a great read!
I very much enjoyed this murder mystery, even though it’s not my usual kind of read. Special Agent Eli Archer is everything you could want in a hero — dedicated, brave, smart, and smoking hot. I also loved Payton who, despite being a trust fund baby, was anything but spoiled and helpless.
The crime under investigation takes the forefront to this story, with a gruesome serial killer claiming another young, beautiful woman’s life in the most brutal of ways. (Side note, I was very thankful there was no sexual assault component, as that’s a no-go for me). I enjoyed the thorough and authentic treatment of the investigation, the involvement of those in Berry Springs, and the inclusion of multiple subplots that kept you guessing as to each character’s motivations.
The writing was excellent, the plot suitably twisty and turny, and even though the killer was on my list of suspects, by the time I finished this thrilling ride I’d actually completely forgotten they were even on the list in the first place. Such is the fantastic story telling; you can’t help but be completely absorbed, needing to know what happens next. I wish the romance aspect was more developed throughout so that we had a bit more of a lead up to the conclusion, but the one steamy scene was fantastically done, and I couldn’t have been happier with the ending. Definitely a great read!
December 24, 2022
✨ Calificación: 3.5/5 ⭐⭐⭐🌟
Un caso policial que realmente no es muy complejo, pero funciona bien para la historia y los personajes. En general el misterio para encontrar al asesino es interesante, pero para el momento de los últimos 5 capítulos llegué a sentir que la historia y el como se resuelve todo cae en picada. Ni digo que sea malo, simplemente resulta ser más fácil y no tan complejo como pudo haber sucedido, el concepto y profundidad del asesino cae un poco.
En cuanto a los personajes principales me gustaron, me encantaron como pareja y las interacciones entre ambos me encantaron. Podía sentir la atracción que existía entre ambos. Sim embargo, la historia de Payton como periodista si dejo mucho a desear y es que llegado a cierto punto de la historia pierde relevancia y se siente como una característica solo para hacerla interesante y no dejarla como una niña rica. Y es que podríamos cambiar el ser reportera y/o periodista, poner que trabaja en una floristería, librería, bar o simplemente una chica que vide de su fondo fiduciario, y la historia funcionaba de la misma manera.
En cuanto a la historia de romance, si bien me gustó, podría encargar perfectamente en un insta love, así que si no les gustan esos libros entonces no van a disfrutar de este romance.
En conclusión , una historia entretenida sobre un caso policial que no busca ser profundo, pero logra entretener y nos muestra una pareja muy linda.
Un caso policial que realmente no es muy complejo, pero funciona bien para la historia y los personajes. En general el misterio para encontrar al asesino es interesante, pero para el momento de los últimos 5 capítulos llegué a sentir que la historia y el como se resuelve todo cae en picada. Ni digo que sea malo, simplemente resulta ser más fácil y no tan complejo como pudo haber sucedido, el concepto y profundidad del asesino cae un poco.
En cuanto a los personajes principales me gustaron, me encantaron como pareja y las interacciones entre ambos me encantaron. Podía sentir la atracción que existía entre ambos. Sim embargo, la historia de Payton como periodista si dejo mucho a desear y es que llegado a cierto punto de la historia pierde relevancia y se siente como una característica solo para hacerla interesante y no dejarla como una niña rica. Y es que podríamos cambiar el ser reportera y/o periodista, poner que trabaja en una floristería, librería, bar o simplemente una chica que vide de su fondo fiduciario, y la historia funcionaba de la misma manera.
En cuanto a la historia de romance, si bien me gustó, podría encargar perfectamente en un insta love, así que si no les gustan esos libros entonces no van a disfrutar de este romance.
En conclusión , una historia entretenida sobre un caso policial que no busca ser profundo, pero logra entretener y nos muestra una pareja muy linda.
May 23, 2019
A captivating, intense murder mystery
A terrifying brutal murderer is out there, with so many possibilities of who the bad guy might be kept me engaged to the end. A well written book with a very interesting and intense plot with a great serving of heat. Graphic details of a crazy villain makes it a tough job for Eli to profile, I have always found FBI profilers very interesting in how they come up with a “type” of person to be on the lookout for. I love all the great connections to the name of the book, there are a lot of different shadows weaved throughout the book. Both of the main characters have their share of baggage to work through, Eli is a loner for the most part and Payton is one who tries to distance herself from her dysfunctional family. The two have great chemistry from the beginning causing Eli to go into protection mode. I have loved reading this series because they all have strong characters, detailed and interesting plots. This is a stand alone book, but there are characters from the other books of the Berry Springs that are really good too. You do not have to read in order since nothing is really given away about the other characters and stories. Highly recommend this read.
A terrifying brutal murderer is out there, with so many possibilities of who the bad guy might be kept me engaged to the end. A well written book with a very interesting and intense plot with a great serving of heat. Graphic details of a crazy villain makes it a tough job for Eli to profile, I have always found FBI profilers very interesting in how they come up with a “type” of person to be on the lookout for. I love all the great connections to the name of the book, there are a lot of different shadows weaved throughout the book. Both of the main characters have their share of baggage to work through, Eli is a loner for the most part and Payton is one who tries to distance herself from her dysfunctional family. The two have great chemistry from the beginning causing Eli to go into protection mode. I have loved reading this series because they all have strong characters, detailed and interesting plots. This is a stand alone book, but there are characters from the other books of the Berry Springs that are really good too. You do not have to read in order since nothing is really given away about the other characters and stories. Highly recommend this read.
July 24, 2019
FBI profiler Eli Archer has been sent to Berry Springs to investigate a gruesome homicide similar to other cases he has been working in the past. Eli has an innate ability to put himself in the mind of the killer in order to solve the crimes but it has put him in a dark hole, shut off from love. While at the murder scene he discovers an overly eager journalist snooping around, the beautiful Payton Chase. Payton is out to make a name for herself as an investigative journalist to be one of the first to help solve this grotesque crime. Her looks and tenacious demeanor catch Eli's eye but her striking resemblance to the previous victims has also caught the killer's attention. Can Eli protect Payton and capture the murderer before he loses more then his heart?
Amanda McKinney returns with her sixth installment of the Berry Spring romantic suspense series. This stand alone novel has great characters trapped in a dramatic murder mystery. I have read a number of McKinney's work and her stories are layered and hold my interest. Some of the characters from the previous editions make guest appearances and a few references to other crimes but you do not have to have read the rest of the enjoyable series to follow along, but you are going to want to.
Amanda McKinney returns with her sixth installment of the Berry Spring romantic suspense series. This stand alone novel has great characters trapped in a dramatic murder mystery. I have read a number of McKinney's work and her stories are layered and hold my interest. Some of the characters from the previous editions make guest appearances and a few references to other crimes but you do not have to have read the rest of the enjoyable series to follow along, but you are going to want to.
January 6, 2022
another awful heroine from this author…
Disliked Payton (what a perfect name for Hillbilly Barbie) in the last book and disliked her even more in this one.
She’s naïve, shallow, over-confident, and under-intelligent. Catty, she’s a relentless spotlight/fame-seeker, and gives real women a bad name because she’s all too willing and used to using her non-cranial assets to get what she wants. She’s wasteful and vain…ruining countless pairs of expensive shoes and acting like a princess. Her last name should have been Kardashian. She was every worst thing law enforcement hates about journalists…putting ambition over everything and everyone else, willing to contaminate a crime scene, getting herself in trouble and taking the focus away from an investigation. Once again, we have a heroine whose only redeeming quality is that she’s supposedly hot. Come on…is that all we have to offer??
Amanda—why do you have to make the women in your romance novels so stupid? Walking out of the hospital and getting taken the way she did…how incredibly dumb did you have to make this character??? Do you hate women, because it seems like you do. Please write a book with a truly smart female lead.
Also, lots of obvious editing mistakes in this one…are these ever proofread?
Disliked Payton (what a perfect name for Hillbilly Barbie) in the last book and disliked her even more in this one.
She’s naïve, shallow, over-confident, and under-intelligent. Catty, she’s a relentless spotlight/fame-seeker, and gives real women a bad name because she’s all too willing and used to using her non-cranial assets to get what she wants. She’s wasteful and vain…ruining countless pairs of expensive shoes and acting like a princess. Her last name should have been Kardashian. She was every worst thing law enforcement hates about journalists…putting ambition over everything and everyone else, willing to contaminate a crime scene, getting herself in trouble and taking the focus away from an investigation. Once again, we have a heroine whose only redeeming quality is that she’s supposedly hot. Come on…is that all we have to offer??
Amanda—why do you have to make the women in your romance novels so stupid? Walking out of the hospital and getting taken the way she did…how incredibly dumb did you have to make this character??? Do you hate women, because it seems like you do. Please write a book with a truly smart female lead.
Also, lots of obvious editing mistakes in this one…are these ever proofread?
May 26, 2019
Disappointed
## I guess I'm the odd man out because this was just barely OK for me. Too many things bugged me about this story. SPOILERS BELOW. First of all, there was very little suspense and the romance was very lukewarm. Plus, there was nothing special about this hero. He was supposed to be the best the FBI had to offer. But his actions spoke otherwise. He feels responsible for a girl's murder because she was taken on his watch so he's trying to piece together a profile. When he figures out the heroine will be the next victim, he leaves her alone at the hospital? With no one watching her? Come on. And guess what? She's taken. Well DUH. What bothered me more than the stupidity of these two is that the author let the heroine be tortured before they found her. So at the end of the book she's been burned, stabbed, and had her face beaten with a baseball bat. Her face, neck, and arms are all scarred. I didn't feel that was necessary to the story. I really liked "The Creek" but this one was disappointing.
## I guess I'm the odd man out because this was just barely OK for me. Too many things bugged me about this story. SPOILERS BELOW. First of all, there was very little suspense and the romance was very lukewarm. Plus, there was nothing special about this hero. He was supposed to be the best the FBI had to offer. But his actions spoke otherwise. He feels responsible for a girl's murder because she was taken on his watch so he's trying to piece together a profile. When he figures out the heroine will be the next victim, he leaves her alone at the hospital? With no one watching her? Come on. And guess what? She's taken. Well DUH. What bothered me more than the stupidity of these two is that the author let the heroine be tortured before they found her. So at the end of the book she's been burned, stabbed, and had her face beaten with a baseball bat. Her face, neck, and arms are all scarred. I didn't feel that was necessary to the story. I really liked "The Creek" but this one was disappointing.
June 15, 2019
I am not sure why any tourists would want to visit Berry Springs or why the locals aren’t moving away in groves, as there are sure a lot of very violent murders that take place in or near this picturesque small southern town. They need to hire a few more police officers and put the FBI on speed dial.
This has to be the most gruesome of all murders in this Series. I literally had to skip the pages that detailed the crime scenes. The main characters are Eli, the FBI profiler, and the local journalist, Payton, which is always an interesting combination. Even though this couple fall rather quickly for each other, it didn’t seem that way, as there was a connection and chemistry that felt genuine. It always makes a series book more interesting when past charterers get to play a more active role, and in this case actually assisting in solving the mystery. A mystery that was rather complex and kept me guessing. Another level was added to this plot by bringing in Payton’s very wealthy and dysfunctional family into the storyline. Over-all 4.25 Stars
This has to be the most gruesome of all murders in this Series. I literally had to skip the pages that detailed the crime scenes. The main characters are Eli, the FBI profiler, and the local journalist, Payton, which is always an interesting combination. Even though this couple fall rather quickly for each other, it didn’t seem that way, as there was a connection and chemistry that felt genuine. It always makes a series book more interesting when past charterers get to play a more active role, and in this case actually assisting in solving the mystery. A mystery that was rather complex and kept me guessing. Another level was added to this plot by bringing in Payton’s very wealthy and dysfunctional family into the storyline. Over-all 4.25 Stars
November 27, 2023
FBI agent Eli Archer can’t believe a body found in Berry Springs could possibly be related to a case that’s already closed. Eli meets local reporter Payton Chase sneaking around the scene trying to report and she’s certain this is the story that will get her promoted to on-air reporting. Payton and Eli mutually send the other’s libido into overdrive, neither is making the first move, though they keep showing up at the same places. Eli thinks Payton’s a good source of local info and she resembles all the victims..
As Eli pokes around locally, another body is found, confirming Eli’s original claim that the wrong person was charged with the crime. Though Eli thankfully hasn’t sunk into the killer’s mind on this case but Payton makes him think of the future but as he digs, Eli finds an unlikely local suspect to watch, so does Payton and she finds a few other things to occupy her mind.
Rating: 4stars
As Eli pokes around locally, another body is found, confirming Eli’s original claim that the wrong person was charged with the crime. Though Eli thankfully hasn’t sunk into the killer’s mind on this case but Payton makes him think of the future but as he digs, Eli finds an unlikely local suspect to watch, so does Payton and she finds a few other things to occupy her mind.
Rating: 4stars
June 8, 2020
The Shadow is a phenomenal romantic suspense by Amanda McKinney. Ms. McKinney has provided readers with yet another well-written book populated with a stellar cast of characters. Eli is an FBI profiler called to Berry Springs when a body of a young woman shows up with familiar wounds. Payton is in the news business and willing to put herself in danger to get her story. Eli and Payton's story is packed with edge of your seat suspense, bits of humor, spice, drama and action. Be warned, once you start this book, you won't want to put it down. I enjoyed reading The Shadow and look forward to my next book by Amanda McKinney. The Shadow is book 6 of the Berry Springs Series but can be read as a standalone. This is a complete book, not a cliff-hanger.
This book is so good that when I opened it to write the review, I ended up reading it all over again!
This book is so good that when I opened it to write the review, I ended up reading it all over again!
May 6, 2019
Berry Springs is a great small town, with a caring community and wonderful people. Just stay out of those damn woods; that location seems to attract body-dumping serial killers! The Shadow's killer tortures his victims in hideous ways, stretching out the torture over hours, even reviving them with cocaine when they lose consciousness. Pure Evil. FBI agent Eli (hunky, of course) arrives in town, following the killer from another state. Unfortunately, TV reporter Payton Chase is investigating, too — not knowing that the killer's victims all look just like her! Suspense, great characters, even a love story, this book has it all! Amanda McKinney delivers another addictive Berry Springs mystery. I loved it!
May 21, 2019
Another great read from Amanda. These books should come with a warning. Do not start reading unless it's early morning and you only intend to stop for coffee or a sandwich. Amanda is one of the few authors that once I start, I can't stop until I finish. You get drawn in by the characters and the wonderful descriptions of the surroundings. Then you have a man meets woman with steamy romantic scenes - all this and then - you think you have worked out who murdered the victim but there is a twist in the tale and you got it wrong. So many elements to enjoy. The wonderful thing is that there are other books in this series so as well as rereading this one you have others to get into. I never post details because I really want people to discover this author for themselves. Enjoy.
February 28, 2020
Caught in the Shadows
When Profiler Eli Archer is called to Berry Springs to consult on a particularly brutal murder he knows that his greatest failure has returned to haunt him. Eli always knew that the man sent away for the Coeur Killings was innocent and as the victims pile up he has a second chance to find the real killer. His efforts are hampered by his attraction to feisty journalist Payton Chase. As it becomes clear that Payton could well be the next victim he struggles to end the nightmare and maybe, just maybe find light in the darkness and his own HEA. I recommend this serial killer romantic suspense to all lovers of great psychological thrillers. Awesome plotline, great characters, whats not to love!
When Profiler Eli Archer is called to Berry Springs to consult on a particularly brutal murder he knows that his greatest failure has returned to haunt him. Eli always knew that the man sent away for the Coeur Killings was innocent and as the victims pile up he has a second chance to find the real killer. His efforts are hampered by his attraction to feisty journalist Payton Chase. As it becomes clear that Payton could well be the next victim he struggles to end the nightmare and maybe, just maybe find light in the darkness and his own HEA. I recommend this serial killer romantic suspense to all lovers of great psychological thrillers. Awesome plotline, great characters, whats not to love!
September 13, 2021
Will the darkness take over?
Eli has been fighting the darkness for years, every day more of it seeps into his soul, stealing his peace, his humanity and his life. But meeting a sassy red head leaves him captivated, consumed and shaken...can he hope to have light in his life again? To enjoy life and feel peace?
Not anytime soon! This killer is hauntingly sick and twisted and he has Payton in his sights. With each page you turn there is an uncomfortable mix of fear and revulsion edged with a desperate need to know that Eli finally finds him...but will it be soon enough to save Payton's life and Eli's soul?
I read this on Kindle Unlimited, I love the whole series so far and look forward to book seven.
Eli has been fighting the darkness for years, every day more of it seeps into his soul, stealing his peace, his humanity and his life. But meeting a sassy red head leaves him captivated, consumed and shaken...can he hope to have light in his life again? To enjoy life and feel peace?
Not anytime soon! This killer is hauntingly sick and twisted and he has Payton in his sights. With each page you turn there is an uncomfortable mix of fear and revulsion edged with a desperate need to know that Eli finally finds him...but will it be soon enough to save Payton's life and Eli's soul?
I read this on Kindle Unlimited, I love the whole series so far and look forward to book seven.
June 2, 2019
Suspense, Fear, Love
This is an excellent read in Ms. McKinney's Berry Springs series. As a reader you root for the main characters and hope for their survival. The author has written an exciting plot that easily hold the reader's interest. My biggest complaint is that it is, I think, an overused plot device to have the female lead fall into the culprit's hands and is rescued at the last minute. She is also permanently scarred which, I guess, keeps her from furthering TV news career. I think both main characters could have each other and fulfilling careers without so much physical damage.
This is an excellent read in Ms. McKinney's Berry Springs series. As a reader you root for the main characters and hope for their survival. The author has written an exciting plot that easily hold the reader's interest. My biggest complaint is that it is, I think, an overused plot device to have the female lead fall into the culprit's hands and is rescued at the last minute. She is also permanently scarred which, I guess, keeps her from furthering TV news career. I think both main characters could have each other and fulfilling careers without so much physical damage.
July 9, 2019
The Shadow by @amandamckinneyauthor
A murder mystery
...............,........
Dark, intense, hot, from the beginning to the end. You will feel a connection with the characters and you will actually care for them
..............,..............
The plot was not very new but it was really intriguing with toe currling parts. The author has done an excellent job in maintaining the suspense throughout and making the reader guess till the end.
..................................
I would give this book 5 stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
for captivating me throughout
..........................
Highly recommended to mystery lovers
.......................,....
Would Love to read more books by this author
A murder mystery
...............,........
Dark, intense, hot, from the beginning to the end. You will feel a connection with the characters and you will actually care for them
..............,..............
The plot was not very new but it was really intriguing with toe currling parts. The author has done an excellent job in maintaining the suspense throughout and making the reader guess till the end.
..................................
I would give this book 5 stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
for captivating me throughout
..........................
Highly recommended to mystery lovers
.......................,....
Would Love to read more books by this author
September 21, 2019
This book is True Detective meets a HEA which is my idea of a suspense-filled and sexy as hell book. I didn’t even think I would like the romantic suspense genre, but this book made me a believer!
The heroine’s love interest, Eli, has strong silent type down to a “T.” He’s an old school classic alpha. I can almost see him in black and white wearing a suit and a fedora. Yes, he has a complicated past but he doesn’t spend all day worrying about it. He does what he can in the present moment and kisses the smart and savvy Payton like his life depends on it. That’s all I need to make my toes curl and sleep tight at night.
I’ll be reading the rest of the Berry Springs Series ASAP.
The heroine’s love interest, Eli, has strong silent type down to a “T.” He’s an old school classic alpha. I can almost see him in black and white wearing a suit and a fedora. Yes, he has a complicated past but he doesn’t spend all day worrying about it. He does what he can in the present moment and kisses the smart and savvy Payton like his life depends on it. That’s all I need to make my toes curl and sleep tight at night.
I’ll be reading the rest of the Berry Springs Series ASAP.
March 28, 2020
I was disappointed in this serial killer yarn. The premise was good, a murderer inspired by art, but the characters were wooden. The poor little rich girl reporter was just ridiculous, behaving recklessly and putting herself in really stupid situations. Plus she is annoying AF. The secondary plot with betrayal and her family drama was eye-rolling ridiculous. The profiler fared somewhat better, the usual brooding loner, he at least had cause to be a downer. The ending felt thrown together. The serial killer reveal was a disappointment accompanied by an info dump. The resolution of the family drama was equally disappointing.
August 21, 2021
A very dark gruesome tale, one that keeps you on the end of the seat, guessing who the killer really is?! Eli, never sleeps and never gives up in his hunt for killers. He thought he already caught the Couer killer, who now sits behind bars. But a new body turns up, with identical trauma as the other victims leaving him no doubt that the man sitting behind bars is innocent of the crimes he was imprisoned for. Eli, meets a sexy stubborn, hot headed female reporter who captivates him and steals his heart, bringing the light that he desperately needs. Both Eli and Payton discover they have a lot more in common than they both thought they had.. A read you will never put down, and never forget.
May 21, 2019
I'm always excited to head back down to Berry Springs for another thrilling adventure and Amanda McKinney never disappoints. Her books always have you on your toes trying to solve the mystery and The Shadow is no exception. What a wonderfully written book! I must have thought the killer was two or three different people before finding out none of my guesses were even close. That's what excellent writing will give you every time. I can't wait to take another trip back down to Berry Springs. I encourage everyone to make the trip! You won't be disappointed.
March 14, 2021
The Shadow
The Shadow is a dark mystery filled with suspense, lust and love. FBI agent Eli Archer is our leading male, his leading lady is fearless reporter Payton Chase. I enjoyed this story but I wished Bobbi Cross from The Creek was in this story. Payton was her friend. I have noticed about McKinney's books she hardly mentions the female leads from previous books. In The Creek which had Bobbi Cross as the female lead, her brother Wesley had 2 scenes and no mention of Wesley's love interest. I wish she connected her stories more. Happy Reading!!
The Shadow is a dark mystery filled with suspense, lust and love. FBI agent Eli Archer is our leading male, his leading lady is fearless reporter Payton Chase. I enjoyed this story but I wished Bobbi Cross from The Creek was in this story. Payton was her friend. I have noticed about McKinney's books she hardly mentions the female leads from previous books. In The Creek which had Bobbi Cross as the female lead, her brother Wesley had 2 scenes and no mention of Wesley's love interest. I wish she connected her stories more. Happy Reading!!
May 21, 2019
Another winner!
If you haven’t read any of Ms. McKinney's books before you're in for a treat, and if you have you don’t need any reviews to motivate you. As always you’ll be "on the edge of your chair” from the beginning until the very end. Payton and Eli are compelling characters that are so realistic you’ll feel like you know them and want them to be safe.
Enjoy! (I was hooked on her books with the first one I read!)
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
If you haven’t read any of Ms. McKinney's books before you're in for a treat, and if you have you don’t need any reviews to motivate you. As always you’ll be "on the edge of your chair” from the beginning until the very end. Payton and Eli are compelling characters that are so realistic you’ll feel like you know them and want them to be safe.
Enjoy! (I was hooked on her books with the first one I read!)
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
May 21, 2019
McKinney doesn't disappoint with this new installment in the Berry Springs Series. Eli and Payton are pitting good against evil in the small town of Berry Springs. While The Shadow is darker than previous books by McKinney, there is still light to be found within the story. McKinney does a fabulous job with character development that pulls you deep into the book. Another wonderful addition to the series!
May 21, 2019
The Shadow is the new installment of the Berry Springs Series and I absolutely loved this one! Amanda’s writing style will keep you on the edge of your seat second guessing everyone’s ulterior motives. This page turner will keep you reading throughout the night wondering what will happen next. The characters are developed just enough so you care or purposely despise them. I have the tendency to keep turning around to see who is lurking in the trees now. Great read!!!
January 10, 2020
Eli and Payton
Payton is a local reporter and hometown girl but also an outsider because of her family's money. Eli is an FBI profiler hunting a serial killer with ties to Berry Springs and he digs further possibly Payton's family. Their relationship is tense due to their jobs but are also drawn to each other seeing beneath the walls both have up. Like the other books the sexy times come fairly late in the story but you'll root for them to get their HEA.
Payton is a local reporter and hometown girl but also an outsider because of her family's money. Eli is an FBI profiler hunting a serial killer with ties to Berry Springs and he digs further possibly Payton's family. Their relationship is tense due to their jobs but are also drawn to each other seeing beneath the walls both have up. Like the other books the sexy times come fairly late in the story but you'll root for them to get their HEA.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews