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Lantern Beach P.D. #3
First Degree Murder
Threatening messages from an unknown source. Shallow graves with unidentified bodies. A friend facing impending peril.
Police Chief Cassidy Chambers longs for a break from the recent crimes plaguing Lantern Beach. She simply wants to enjoy her friends’ upcoming wedding, to prepare for the busy tourist season about to slam the island, and to gather all the dirt she can on the suspicious community that’s invaded the town.
But trouble explodes on the island, sending residents—including Cassidy—into a squall of uneasiness. Cassidy may have more than one enemy plotting her demise, and the collateral damage seems unthinkable.
As the temperature rises, so does the pressure to find answers. Someone is determined that Lantern Beach would be better off without their new police chief. And for Cassidy, one wrong move could mean certain death.
Police Chief Cassidy Chambers longs for a break from the recent crimes plaguing Lantern Beach. She simply wants to enjoy her friends’ upcoming wedding, to prepare for the busy tourist season about to slam the island, and to gather all the dirt she can on the suspicious community that’s invaded the town.
But trouble explodes on the island, sending residents—including Cassidy—into a squall of uneasiness. Cassidy may have more than one enemy plotting her demise, and the collateral damage seems unthinkable.
As the temperature rises, so does the pressure to find answers. Someone is determined that Lantern Beach would be better off without their new police chief. And for Cassidy, one wrong move could mean certain death.
302 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2019
1129 people are currently reading
195 people want to read
About the author
Christy Barritt
340 books1,677 followersChristy Barritt is an author, freelance writer and speaker who lives in Virginia. She’s married to her Prince Charming, a man who thinks she’s hilarious—but only when she’s not trying to be. Christy’s a self-proclaimed klutz, an avid music lover who’s known for spontaneously bursting into song, and a road trip aficionado. She’s only won one contest in her life—and her prize was kissing a pig (okay, okay… actually she did win the Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence in Suspense and Mystery also). Her current claim to fame is showing off her mother, who looks just like former First Lady Barbara Bush
When she’s not working or spending time with her family, she enjoys singing, playing the guitar, and exploring small, unsuspecting towns where people have no idea how accident prone she is.
When she’s not working or spending time with her family, she enjoys singing, playing the guitar, and exploring small, unsuspecting towns where people have no idea how accident prone she is.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
June 23, 2019
4 stars. I’m continuing to enjoy this series about Cassidy, as she navigates life as a newlywed and the police chief in a small town. This one has a poisoner on the loose and an inner leak to find in the police station. Cassidy’s job grows more dangerous as the rash of crime in town affects more people.
Squeaky clean and low on romance.
Squeaky clean and low on romance.
July 31, 2019
Man, things are getting intense but GOOD here! Poor Cassidy just wants to enjoy life with her new husband, Ty, but the job keeps getting in the way of that! Ty is constantly understanding and totally supportive, but in this book he keeps an important revelation about their finances from Cassidy and she keeps a threatening text message secret from him. They both keep waiting for the "right moment" to tell one another while murders are occurring on the island and a dangerous cult leader decides to run for mayor...oh and a best friend is getting married and there has to be room for that as well. Yikes!
Badly want to see Gilead get justice...even his mom is afraid of him?!! So not right.
There's one scene where Gilead gets alone with Cassidy as she is searching something out and somehow he gets to her, didn't understand that at all. This is still a cozy mystery, but mind control makes this book a whole new level of intense. Not to mention Cassidy somehow becomes a target for the bad guys, which I get, but didn't expect the plot to become so violent. Oh, and one character that's part of Cassidy's circle of friends decides to join the cult and not sure if she's being a spy or really interested. Looking forward to how THAT plays out! Had sympathy for Moriah up until this point, but now REALLY disliking her. Can't wait to see what happens next.
Received a copy of this ebook. Was not required to write a positive review. The thoughts and comments are my own.
Badly want to see Gilead get justice...even his mom is afraid of him?!! So not right.
There's one scene where Gilead gets alone with Cassidy as she is searching something out and somehow he gets to her, didn't understand that at all. This is still a cozy mystery, but mind control makes this book a whole new level of intense. Not to mention Cassidy somehow becomes a target for the bad guys, which I get, but didn't expect the plot to become so violent. Oh, and one character that's part of Cassidy's circle of friends decides to join the cult and not sure if she's being a spy or really interested. Looking forward to how THAT plays out! Had sympathy for Moriah up until this point, but now REALLY disliking her. Can't wait to see what happens next.
Received a copy of this ebook. Was not required to write a positive review. The thoughts and comments are my own.
April 12, 2019
This is the third book in the Lantern Beach spin-off series and fans will want to read them in order On the Lookout, Attempt to Locate, and FIRST DEGREE MURDER. Dead on Arrival is releasing this month.
As per usual with Christy Barritt's books, I was kept guessing who-dun-it. It could be anyone. Were they tied in with the cult on the island somehow? I've heard of the stuffed animals to transport drugs idea when I was a child reading Christian Young Adult mysteries.
If you like mysteries, you will want to read FIRST DEGREE MURDER. Every book in this series -- I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
I was given a copy free. All opinions are my own.
As per usual with Christy Barritt's books, I was kept guessing who-dun-it. It could be anyone. Were they tied in with the cult on the island somehow? I've heard of the stuffed animals to transport drugs idea when I was a child reading Christian Young Adult mysteries.
If you like mysteries, you will want to read FIRST DEGREE MURDER. Every book in this series -- I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
I was given a copy free. All opinions are my own.
June 3, 2020
I can't get enough Lantern Beach! Another good read.
April 25, 2019
First Degree Murder by Christy Barritt starts with three complete skeletons uncovered on the beach. As the plot progresses, more and more danger encapsulates Cassidy and all her friends. Readers will learn more about Gilead Cove and keep their disgust for them on the forefront of their mind. The mystery keeps building as the story moves along. The familiar characters bring a smile to my face. I don't know how Barritt can write such wonderful cozy mysteries and publish them every month, but I extremely grateful she does. There isn't much wait time between stories, so readers forget what happened in the previous stories. I really enjoyed this third addition, and I can't wait to see what troubles find Cassidy and the gang in the next installments.
July 31, 2019
This mystery only slightly resolved, pumping enough energy to keep the thread tight for the next book. It’s still linked to Gilead’s Cove and trying to prove he’s behind these crimes.
Again, romance content was minimal. It is disturbing how Gilead misconstrues love and controls by force, but I wouldn’t necessarily pin that into the romance field.
I’ve pretty much painted my disgust for the cult (which means the author did an excellent job).
Thinking back, I really cannot say this one had any real spiritual backbone. It’s all about how it’s Cassidy’s responsibility to keep people safe. Even when she was in danger, she didn’t pray. Huh. Yeah, this one had like no spiritual content.
Again, romance content was minimal. It is disturbing how Gilead misconstrues love and controls by force, but I wouldn’t necessarily pin that into the romance field.
I’ve pretty much painted my disgust for the cult (which means the author did an excellent job).
Thinking back, I really cannot say this one had any real spiritual backbone. It’s all about how it’s Cassidy’s responsibility to keep people safe. Even when she was in danger, she didn’t pray. Huh. Yeah, this one had like no spiritual content.
April 1, 2022
I'm loving this series. This book was so good and the suspense 😮
June 3, 2020
Wonderful
I loved this book. Suspenseful is an understatement. Christy is a very talented writer. To read clean suspense \mystery novels is a blessing. This series has not disappointed. On to the next book
I loved this book. Suspenseful is an understatement. Christy is a very talented writer. To read clean suspense \mystery novels is a blessing. This series has not disappointed. On to the next book
August 10, 2019
“Things on Lantern Beach were never simple.”
“Everyone could find out Cady Matthews is really Cassidy Chambers. Just one post from me, and your life will be ruined. Don’t forget it.”
“Our saying has been: no one stands alone. Now my mantra is going to be to stand my ground.”
4.5 stars.
I’m really enjoying this series. It’s starting to really hit its stride and I love how Christy Barritt leaves a lot of things unresolved for future books in the series. A lot of mystery still left to uncover!
I thought First Degree Murder was a good story start to finish. I figured out one of the aspects of the book but at the same time, I liked how it all came together. This one had a lot going on; skeletons found, Lisa and Braden’s upcoming wedding, Gilead and Moriah’s upcoming wedding, Ty’s financial troubles with Hope House, creepy text messages to Cassidy about her past as Cady, info on Gilead’s past, unsavory characters doing unsavory things, and Serena entering the cult to find meaning and purpose. And best of all, not one mention of a man wearing spicy cologne!
For more reviews, please check out my blog!
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“Everyone could find out Cady Matthews is really Cassidy Chambers. Just one post from me, and your life will be ruined. Don’t forget it.”
“Our saying has been: no one stands alone. Now my mantra is going to be to stand my ground.”
4.5 stars.
I’m really enjoying this series. It’s starting to really hit its stride and I love how Christy Barritt leaves a lot of things unresolved for future books in the series. A lot of mystery still left to uncover!
I thought First Degree Murder was a good story start to finish. I figured out one of the aspects of the book but at the same time, I liked how it all came together. This one had a lot going on; skeletons found, Lisa and Braden’s upcoming wedding, Gilead and Moriah’s upcoming wedding, Ty’s financial troubles with Hope House, creepy text messages to Cassidy about her past as Cady, info on Gilead’s past, unsavory characters doing unsavory things, and Serena entering the cult to find meaning and purpose. And best of all, not one mention of a man wearing spicy cologne!
For more reviews, please check out my blog!
https://wadeurspider01.wixsite.com/we...
January 9, 2020
Christy Barritt has done it again! This is another FANTASTIC, FAST PACED, FULL OF ACTION and SUSPENSE book! (With a bit of romance mixed in.) Her stories just keep getting better and better!
Life has gotten more and more complicated for Police Chief Chambers. It seems wherever she turns there is a crime. It’s as if ever since she became the chief the crime on Lantern Beach has gone crazy. Could it be this new group of people who have moved into town and who is really behind all the text messages she’s been getting?
I love the suspense, action, and intrigue Christy Barritt puts into all of her stories. This one is no different. It is so full of suspense I had no idea which person was the true bad guy. I’ve had my thoughts, but I’m still not totally sure.
Wow! It kept me on the seat of my chair and I just couldn’t put it down. I actually read it so fast that I wanted to pick up the next book right away!
I was given this book by the author which did not influence my review in any way, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Life has gotten more and more complicated for Police Chief Chambers. It seems wherever she turns there is a crime. It’s as if ever since she became the chief the crime on Lantern Beach has gone crazy. Could it be this new group of people who have moved into town and who is really behind all the text messages she’s been getting?
I love the suspense, action, and intrigue Christy Barritt puts into all of her stories. This one is no different. It is so full of suspense I had no idea which person was the true bad guy. I’ve had my thoughts, but I’m still not totally sure.
Wow! It kept me on the seat of my chair and I just couldn’t put it down. I actually read it so fast that I wanted to pick up the next book right away!
I was given this book by the author which did not influence my review in any way, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 31, 2019
Has major crime truly increased since police Chief Cassidy Chambers moved to the island or have more been discovered since the former, incompetent chief resigned? And what is the source of the turbulence--Cassidy's former undercover work on the west coast? Her husband's past SEAL missions or the nefarious cult's recent invasion of the island?
Whatever the root, Cassidy and crew have much more than they can handle. This episode it is multiple bodies uncovered by the latest storm, a missing person and direct threats to Cassidy herself.
Join the action in progress and attempt to solve the side-winding clues and events. Compelling characters and shocking revelations are the reason that Lantern Beach is a Christy Barritt fan favorite. You'll soon discover a tight-knit community within the seemingly idyllic yet isolated coastal setting.
I received a copy of the book without obligation. This review is my opinion.
Whatever the root, Cassidy and crew have much more than they can handle. This episode it is multiple bodies uncovered by the latest storm, a missing person and direct threats to Cassidy herself.
Join the action in progress and attempt to solve the side-winding clues and events. Compelling characters and shocking revelations are the reason that Lantern Beach is a Christy Barritt fan favorite. You'll soon discover a tight-knit community within the seemingly idyllic yet isolated coastal setting.
I received a copy of the book without obligation. This review is my opinion.
October 19, 2025
"Things on Lantern Beach were never simple", especially for Police Chief Cassidy Chambers. Dead bodies keep turning up; this time the skeletons appear to have been hurriedly buried in the sand on a deserted stretch of rugged shoreline. Sadly, corpses can still tell a story, and Cassidy is convinced that the deaths are related to other strange happenings in her little town; especially when the cult at Gilead's Cove and its charismatic leader seem to hover around the edges of what can/cannot be proven. And to make matters worse, strange text messages lead her to believe that someone knows her past.
Join Cassidy, her husband Ty, and other members of their tight knit circle of friends and co-workers, as they frantically try to unravel what has transpired in their idyllic beach community, before there are more first degree murders.
Join Cassidy, her husband Ty, and other members of their tight knit circle of friends and co-workers, as they frantically try to unravel what has transpired in their idyllic beach community, before there are more first degree murders.
July 1, 2019
Lantern Beach is the home of her dreams and Cassidy is ready to relax and enjoy her friend's wedding and put her past behind her. But, the leader of Gilead's Cove, the discovery of three buried bodies, and the hints that someone on the island knows about her secret throws her right back in the chaos of murder mysteries and danger. Does Anthony Gilead know of her previous life and if so, will it mean certain death for Cassidy if her enemies find out where she is hiding? Will she and Ty have to leave the life and friendships they have built on the island? Are the dead bodies connected to the mysterious cult that seems to be taking over their community? Cassidy plans to figure it all out, or die trying! I received copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. The opinions are my own.
May 26, 2020
Can't catch a break
What happened to quiet Lantern Beach? Is it Cassidy's fault? Did DH7 find her? Or is the cult that moved into town? Never a dull moment as much as Cassidy would love one. Great job. Thank you.
What happened to quiet Lantern Beach? Is it Cassidy's fault? Did DH7 find her? Or is the cult that moved into town? Never a dull moment as much as Cassidy would love one. Great job. Thank you.
March 28, 2020
Another great book by Christy Barritt! I think all her books are great, though! This one continues with Cassidy Chambers as the previous two books. This book is part of the Lantern Beach PD series, and this is a series that must be read in order, since each book leaves something unraveled, at the end. I love the way she wrote this series. It makes me want to read the next one as quick as I can!
I really enjoyed this book. Barritt does such a great job making you feel like you are part of the book. Cassidy Chambers feels like a friend, therefore, the characters are very relatable!
I received a copy from Christy Barritt and all opinions are my own.
I really enjoyed this book. Barritt does such a great job making you feel like you are part of the book. Cassidy Chambers feels like a friend, therefore, the characters are very relatable!
I received a copy from Christy Barritt and all opinions are my own.
March 29, 2019
Police Chief Cassidy Chambers can’t catch a break. Dead bodies are found on Lantern Island before she’s even recovered from her last big case. Could these be connected with the cult trying to take over the island? And what about the threatening texts—could they also be connected or from someone in her former life? This exciting series is best read in order, but each book offers a satisfying read. Can’t wait for the next novel to see what will happen. I received a copy from the author. All opinions are my own.
March 30, 2019
This is the latest novel based in Lantern Beach. Sheriff Cassidy Chambers has not one but three dead bodies to investigate not to mention a possible cult setting up in her community. Between that and receiving threatening mystery texts, Cassidy isn't sure what is going to happen next! Another great suspense book from Christy Barritt - once you start reading, you will want to "visit" Lantern Beach again and again. I received a digital copy of this book from the author with no obligations. These opinions are entirely my own.
April 2, 2019
This was an excellent book!! Honestly, I don't think Christy Barritt writes a bad book--every one that she writes has your interest from the word, "Go!" Following Cassidy Chamber's new mystery that she must unravel, several pieces of the puzzle must be uncovered so that the perpetrator(s) can be caught. Once you start reading, you will be anxious to find out who those involved in the crimes is/are. Settle down with this book and a cup of coffee--you are in for a good read!
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy from the author. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy from the author. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
April 9, 2019
First Degree Reading Entertainment
Moriah Roberts is getting married, but is the marriage real? Husband-to-be Gilead is the leader of a cult and Lantern Beach Police Chief Cassidy Chamber is out to prove that he entertains deadly dalliances with drugs and murder.
Cassidy is determined to keep Lantern Beach a safe haven for residents. Then Gilead throws his hat into the ring for mayor and everything residents of Lantern Beach value is in danger of being stripped away.
Another thriller from author Christy Barritt.
Moriah Roberts is getting married, but is the marriage real? Husband-to-be Gilead is the leader of a cult and Lantern Beach Police Chief Cassidy Chamber is out to prove that he entertains deadly dalliances with drugs and murder.
Cassidy is determined to keep Lantern Beach a safe haven for residents. Then Gilead throws his hat into the ring for mayor and everything residents of Lantern Beach value is in danger of being stripped away.
Another thriller from author Christy Barritt.
July 1, 2019
How do you fight a cult that is trying to take over your beloved island? At the same time, Skye's niece,Sabrina, is missing. In addition, Cassidy is trying to solve the murder of three people who were found in a shallow grave on the island. In the midst of this, the cult leader, Gilead, is marrying Moriah on the same day as Cassidy and Ty's friends, Lisa and Braden are being wed. Scary events happen and much danger occurs. Cassidy nearly dies. She has also been receiving threatening texts. Has the DH-7 gang found her? Will they solve the mysteries? Read this to find out!
June 26, 2019
First Degree Murder is the third installment in the Lantern Beach PD series. Dead bodies, Cassidy and crew being shot at, and a mysterious text from someone who knows of Cassidy’s past...and that all takes place in the first few pages. Readers will be on the edge of their seats until the end. Plus more will be revealed about what is going on at the mysterious Gilead’s Cove. I would definitely recommend starting with book one in the series because of the continuing story throughout.
I was given a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
I was given a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
March 30, 2019
Cassidy has taken over as police chief and is hoping that things will settle down. She just wants to concentrate on her new life and just concentrate on the minor things, unfortunately that is not going to happen.
I have enjoyed getting to see Cassidy in this new series after getting introduced to her earlier. We get to see her still keeping things under control in Lantern Beach, but also getting to be herself.
I have enjoyed getting to see Cassidy in this new series after getting introduced to her earlier. We get to see her still keeping things under control in Lantern Beach, but also getting to be herself.
November 8, 2019
A CB. Murder Mystery Action Adventure (FDM) (LBPDB - 3)
CB. has penned a murder mystery action adventure which occurs on Lantern Beach. There have been some very unusual criminal activities on the island. When the bodies in shallow graves are found the police Chief knows it is the beginning of a storm. Then she hears she is a target for her own murder. This is an excellent read for the genre ....DEHS
CB. has penned a murder mystery action adventure which occurs on Lantern Beach. There have been some very unusual criminal activities on the island. When the bodies in shallow graves are found the police Chief knows it is the beginning of a storm. Then she hears she is a target for her own murder. This is an excellent read for the genre ....DEHS
August 16, 2019
Dealing with threats and a cult in town isn't easy. Are the threats and violence happening in Lantern Beach due to the cult's presence in town? Cassidy keeps finding clues and investigating, determined to find out more about both and their possible connection. I am excited to read more and find out how these stories evolve. Another great book in the series. Highly recommend.
April 6, 2019
As always, Christy has an hit!
Mystery, intrigue, and romance mark this book. Cassidy's nemesis, Gilead, becomes bolder and more dangerous to Lantern Beach. More drugs show up. Is everything connected. Worst of all, one of Cassidy's friends becomes part of Gilead's Cove. Who? I strongly recommend this book.
Mystery, intrigue, and romance mark this book. Cassidy's nemesis, Gilead, becomes bolder and more dangerous to Lantern Beach. More drugs show up. Is everything connected. Worst of all, one of Cassidy's friends becomes part of Gilead's Cove. Who? I strongly recommend this book.
April 18, 2019
Murder on the Beach
Ty's wife is still busy being Chief of Police in the little town of Lantern Beach. It seems she can't get a break to enjoy her new husband for just a few days! Plus, she is still the object of a deadly gang who are supposed to think she is dead, because of her Seattle history. Then, the dirty tricks from the leader of the cult are bad for business, to boot!
Ty's wife is still busy being Chief of Police in the little town of Lantern Beach. It seems she can't get a break to enjoy her new husband for just a few days! Plus, she is still the object of a deadly gang who are supposed to think she is dead, because of her Seattle history. Then, the dirty tricks from the leader of the cult are bad for business, to boot!
January 15, 2020
Closing In
Another book down. Hard to put down but life must continue. As Cassidy`s life is in danger she moves forward to solve the triple homicide and to learn the secrets of Giliads Cove and discover who she can and can not trust. The only negative is having to wait for this cult to be exposed. But getting closer.
Another book down. Hard to put down but life must continue. As Cassidy`s life is in danger she moves forward to solve the triple homicide and to learn the secrets of Giliads Cove and discover who she can and can not trust. The only negative is having to wait for this cult to be exposed. But getting closer.
March 31, 2019
Another Great Mystery
We find roller coaster suspense in this latest Christy Barritt mystery.
I loved the story full of twists and turns plus the interesting cast of characters.
This book is recommended for mystery lovers.
We find roller coaster suspense in this latest Christy Barritt mystery.
I loved the story full of twists and turns plus the interesting cast of characters.
This book is recommended for mystery lovers.
April 12, 2019
Suspense, Edge of your seat reading!
The Lantern Beach PD series is a riveting read! A wonderful mystery and romance rolled into one! Could not put it down! Can't wait for the next one.
The Lantern Beach PD series is a riveting read! A wonderful mystery and romance rolled into one! Could not put it down! Can't wait for the next one.
April 30, 2019
I just LOVE this series. This book was so good and packed with all kinds of adventure and questions. Love all of the characters and I can hardly wait for Ty and Cassidy to take down Gilead’s Cove. Ready for the next book to come out!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews