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The Calderwood Cases #2
Beneath the Ashes
A troubled detective learns that the fires of the past are still burning in this haunting, emotional thriller.
When detective Claire Calderwood is called to a grisly murder scene, she’s haunted by memories of her murdered sister. The victim is tied to a motel bed, her head covered in plastic and her body sprinkled with ashes. Claire’s dealt with vile crime scenes before, but this one strikes close to home.
Claire’s boyfriend, reporter Noah Washington, once helped find her sister’s killer, but now he’s a distraction to this new investigation. She wants to help him resolve the mysteries of his past, but Noah has been distant, and Claire knows he’s keeping something from her.
When another girl is murdered like the first, Claire suspects the work of a serial killer. As the case heats up and evidence mounts, she finds herself in profound danger. Claire’s been burned before; now she must decide if she can trust Noah to help her solve the case and uncover the truth that lies beneath the ashes.
When detective Claire Calderwood is called to a grisly murder scene, she’s haunted by memories of her murdered sister. The victim is tied to a motel bed, her head covered in plastic and her body sprinkled with ashes. Claire’s dealt with vile crime scenes before, but this one strikes close to home.
Claire’s boyfriend, reporter Noah Washington, once helped find her sister’s killer, but now he’s a distraction to this new investigation. She wants to help him resolve the mysteries of his past, but Noah has been distant, and Claire knows he’s keeping something from her.
When another girl is murdered like the first, Claire suspects the work of a serial killer. As the case heats up and evidence mounts, she finds herself in profound danger. Claire’s been burned before; now she must decide if she can trust Noah to help her solve the case and uncover the truth that lies beneath the ashes.
281 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 19, 2019
642 people are currently reading
2773 people want to read
About the author
Dea Poirier
13 books496 followersDea Poirier was raised in Edmond, Oklahoma, where she found her passion during a creative writing course. She studied computer science and political science at the University of Central Oklahoma. She later spent time living on both coasts and traveling the United States before finally putting down roots in central Florida. She now resides somewhere between Disney and the swamp.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 124 reviews
November 17, 2019
A much improved effort on the 1st installment of this series - 4 stars.
Claire Calderwood is back and still reeling from the aftermath of the previous case. She quickly is called to assist in another municipality in Maine with a grisly murder. A young girl is found dead in a motel room with no suspect to point to, no forensic evidence and no known motive. As she investigates, the stakes get even higher as it appears a serial killer has come to town.
I was kind of disappointed with the first book in the series (see review here), but wanted to give the author a second chance. I'm really glad I did! The other great thing about this book is that reading the first in the series isn't necessary. There is plenty of catch up sprinkled throughout and it doesn't get too repetitive.
I would recommend this if you're looking for a new series with a female lead. I definitely think it's worth your time!
Thank you to Netgalley, Thomas & Mercer and Dea Poirier for the opportunity to read and provide an honest review of this book.
Review Date: 11/17/19
Publication Date: 11/19/19
Claire Calderwood is back and still reeling from the aftermath of the previous case. She quickly is called to assist in another municipality in Maine with a grisly murder. A young girl is found dead in a motel room with no suspect to point to, no forensic evidence and no known motive. As she investigates, the stakes get even higher as it appears a serial killer has come to town.
I was kind of disappointed with the first book in the series (see review here), but wanted to give the author a second chance. I'm really glad I did! The other great thing about this book is that reading the first in the series isn't necessary. There is plenty of catch up sprinkled throughout and it doesn't get too repetitive.
I would recommend this if you're looking for a new series with a female lead. I definitely think it's worth your time!
Thank you to Netgalley, Thomas & Mercer and Dea Poirier for the opportunity to read and provide an honest review of this book.
Review Date: 11/17/19
Publication Date: 11/19/19
November 19, 2019
Detective Claire Calderwood is called to investigate a horrible murder scene of a young woman found bound, tortured, covered with ashes and her head covered in plastic. She's a seasoned detective, but the scene torments her of her own sister's murdered some years ago.
As second young woman is found in the exact same circumstances making the idea of a serial killer not such an impossibility. As her investigation finds some definite leads, she finds herself and her temporary partner in grave danger.
The real distraction of this investigation is her boyfriend, Noah, a reporter/true crime author. He's being secretive and distant and Claire is afraid their days are numbered.
This is a cleverly put together police procedural with some romance thrown in the mix. There's lots of action, suspense, and the ending is quite surprising. The characters are deftly defined. Although second in the series, this one reads easily as a stand alone.
Many thank to the author / Thomas & Mercer / Netgalley for the digital copy of this crime fiction. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
As second young woman is found in the exact same circumstances making the idea of a serial killer not such an impossibility. As her investigation finds some definite leads, she finds herself and her temporary partner in grave danger.
The real distraction of this investigation is her boyfriend, Noah, a reporter/true crime author. He's being secretive and distant and Claire is afraid their days are numbered.
This is a cleverly put together police procedural with some romance thrown in the mix. There's lots of action, suspense, and the ending is quite surprising. The characters are deftly defined. Although second in the series, this one reads easily as a stand alone.
Many thank to the author / Thomas & Mercer / Netgalley for the digital copy of this crime fiction. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
January 11, 2020
So I read the first book last year and didn’t love it but I thought I’d try again with the sequel. I actually think it’s worse than the first one, and I won’t try again.
I don’t think the author gives enough clues for the reader to follow so they can try to solve the case along with Claire. It’s just all of a sudden, boom this is the murderer. I had the same complaint in the first book, and in a mystery this is a no no for me. I want to try and figure things out!
I didn’t like how the string of murders in Camden related to the one from her boyfriend’s past. It just seemed a little too convenient for me. I didn’t like how quickly Claire forgave Noah, when all his secretiveness felt to me like a giant red flag. I didn’t like how quickly they agreed to move in together (AT A FUNERAL). I think the author thought she might not get to write a third book and wanted to wrap up any unresolved storylines.
But the thing I absolutely hated about this book was that Austin, a young single mom doing her best for her daughter, was brutally murdered in her home. That got the blood boiling a little bit. The author never even mentions what happened to Austin’s daughter after, only that the police captain was a registered foster parent. The reader only finds out that Austin was a mom about 60% through the book and it seems that plot line was added for extra tragedy, only to be abandoned.
Tldr; imo there are better female detective series out there. Don’t bother with this one.
I don’t think the author gives enough clues for the reader to follow so they can try to solve the case along with Claire. It’s just all of a sudden, boom this is the murderer. I had the same complaint in the first book, and in a mystery this is a no no for me. I want to try and figure things out!
I didn’t like how the string of murders in Camden related to the one from her boyfriend’s past. It just seemed a little too convenient for me. I didn’t like how quickly Claire forgave Noah, when all his secretiveness felt to me like a giant red flag. I didn’t like how quickly they agreed to move in together (AT A FUNERAL). I think the author thought she might not get to write a third book and wanted to wrap up any unresolved storylines.
But the thing I absolutely hated about this book was that Austin, a young single mom doing her best for her daughter, was brutally murdered in her home. That got the blood boiling a little bit. The author never even mentions what happened to Austin’s daughter after, only that the police captain was a registered foster parent. The reader only finds out that Austin was a mom about 60% through the book and it seems that plot line was added for extra tragedy, only to be abandoned.
Tldr; imo there are better female detective series out there. Don’t bother with this one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 31, 2019
Beneath the Ashes (The Calderwood Cases #2) by Dea Poirier
5 stars
M/F Thriller
Triggers: Murder
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Claire is recovering from solving her sisters murder when she's asked to help in a nearby community that isn't used to dealing with murder. What Claire finds when she arrives is a grisly scene. Woman, murdered, tied to a bed and covered in ashes. Is this a forensic countermeasure? Someone treating this woman as trash? the questions continue to pile up, without many answers.
When it becomes clear that there is a serial killer among this small community, it will take all of Claire's investigatory skills, as well as a little help from Noah, to figure out how to keep the young woman of the community safe.
Noah is still part of this story, but more in a peripheral setting. He is off working on his own case while Claire is working on hers. While they aren't together a whole lot, their paths intertwine and they have some issues to work out.
The story is full of suspects. Claire is trying to piece it all together, while racing against the murderer. Just when you think she's figured part of the story out, a twist is thrown in and you have to start all over again.
5 stars
M/F Thriller
Triggers: Murder
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Claire is recovering from solving her sisters murder when she's asked to help in a nearby community that isn't used to dealing with murder. What Claire finds when she arrives is a grisly scene. Woman, murdered, tied to a bed and covered in ashes. Is this a forensic countermeasure? Someone treating this woman as trash? the questions continue to pile up, without many answers.
When it becomes clear that there is a serial killer among this small community, it will take all of Claire's investigatory skills, as well as a little help from Noah, to figure out how to keep the young woman of the community safe.
Noah is still part of this story, but more in a peripheral setting. He is off working on his own case while Claire is working on hers. While they aren't together a whole lot, their paths intertwine and they have some issues to work out.
The story is full of suspects. Claire is trying to piece it all together, while racing against the murderer. Just when you think she's figured part of the story out, a twist is thrown in and you have to start all over again.
April 22, 2019
I read an early version of this and loved Claire's progression. She takes on another grisly case and struggles with her relationship with Noah. Dea writes with grit and depth that make her characters real.
May 18, 2021
Fresh off the heels of solving the case of her sister's murder, Detective Claire Calderwood is called in to help solve the murder of a girl found bound to a bed in a motel with ashes covering her body. Almost as soon as Claire begins working the case, another young woman is found murdered in the same way. Then, another. As Claire feared, a serial killer is at work.
This was a fast-paced, easy to read who done it/police procedural that kept me turning the pages. I was suspicious of absolutely everyone and shocked to discover who the real killer was. In addition to all the murder, there's a bit of romance too which I really enjoyed - such an interesting combo for this type of book.
This book is the sequel to Next Girl to Die (which I also loved) however, it can be read as a standalone. I love Claire's character - she is such a strong, female protagonist. I also enjoyed seeing her progression emotionally (on a personal level) from book 1.
To hear more of my thoughts, check out Unravel The Binding book club podcast wherever you listen to podcasts.
This was a fast-paced, easy to read who done it/police procedural that kept me turning the pages. I was suspicious of absolutely everyone and shocked to discover who the real killer was. In addition to all the murder, there's a bit of romance too which I really enjoyed - such an interesting combo for this type of book.
This book is the sequel to Next Girl to Die (which I also loved) however, it can be read as a standalone. I love Claire's character - she is such a strong, female protagonist. I also enjoyed seeing her progression emotionally (on a personal level) from book 1.
To hear more of my thoughts, check out Unravel The Binding book club podcast wherever you listen to podcasts.
January 15, 2020
didn’t like: ACT III & how it ended, not a fan of the love-story, some chapters are quite long and others are really short??, not sure I like the narrator, narration was used in lots of instances that would have been far more interesting had dialogue between the characters been used instead (not sure if it was done to save time or it’s just preference?).
example of the narration in the book:
a)"I fill him in on what I’ve found on Aidan and how I haven’t been able to get through to Vera to warn her."
b)"roxie and I talk around the Noah issue until I can't stand the way his name sounds on my lips anymore."
liked: it was better than the first book of the series, better pacing, more intrigue.
example of the narration in the book:
a)"I fill him in on what I’ve found on Aidan and how I haven’t been able to get through to Vera to warn her."
b)"roxie and I talk around the Noah issue until I can't stand the way his name sounds on my lips anymore."
liked: it was better than the first book of the series, better pacing, more intrigue.
September 2, 2019
Fresh off the investigation into her sister’s death, detective Claire Calderwood is called to investigate a murder in a nearby community. A girl’s body has been found tied to the bed of a hotel room, covered in ashes. Without witnesses, and with few clues, Claire must figure out who killed this girl while dealing with her own memories and the realization that her boyfriend, Noah, has been keeping secrets about his own past.
And then another girl is found, and another. Now, faced with a serial killer, Claire has to find out how the three girls, text messages from a burner cell phone, and GPS coordinates tie them all together while under pressure from the local police and a very irate hospital CEO to find the killer.
In her follow up to Next Girl to Die, author Dea Poirier has expertly crafted another thrilling who-done-it. The story line is fast paced and with just as much intensity as book one. Claire is someone you can just identify with, she isn’t perfect, but she’s exactly the person her past has molded her into. While characters in some books seem to act just to advance the plot line, Claire is consistent and genuine. Poirier has also done an amazing job of bringing the details of Maine to life so that the setting acts as another character, helping to bring a stark, harsh richness to an already chilling story. The crime and resolution is just as satisfying as I’d hoped (no spoilers from me!).
Beneath the Ashes (The Calderwood Cases #2) will be released November 19, 2019.
*I received an ARC of Beneath the Ashes from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review
And then another girl is found, and another. Now, faced with a serial killer, Claire has to find out how the three girls, text messages from a burner cell phone, and GPS coordinates tie them all together while under pressure from the local police and a very irate hospital CEO to find the killer.
In her follow up to Next Girl to Die, author Dea Poirier has expertly crafted another thrilling who-done-it. The story line is fast paced and with just as much intensity as book one. Claire is someone you can just identify with, she isn’t perfect, but she’s exactly the person her past has molded her into. While characters in some books seem to act just to advance the plot line, Claire is consistent and genuine. Poirier has also done an amazing job of bringing the details of Maine to life so that the setting acts as another character, helping to bring a stark, harsh richness to an already chilling story. The crime and resolution is just as satisfying as I’d hoped (no spoilers from me!).
Beneath the Ashes (The Calderwood Cases #2) will be released November 19, 2019.
*I received an ARC of Beneath the Ashes from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review
August 31, 2019
A good murder 'who done it book. Page turner, lots of suspense and twists as Detective Claire Calderwood is assigned to the case. Is it a Serial killer?
This book is part of the Calderwood case series , I didn't know that when I started off and I discovered they can be read as a stand alone.
The character of Claire - strong female detective is going to solve the crime, no matter what!
Small impact from her boyfriend Noah who is involved in solving the case.
I will look forward to reading book three. 3.5 stars
Thank you to the publisher and author - I received an advanced reading copy in return for an honest review.
This book is part of the Calderwood case series , I didn't know that when I started off and I discovered they can be read as a stand alone.
The character of Claire - strong female detective is going to solve the crime, no matter what!
Small impact from her boyfriend Noah who is involved in solving the case.
I will look forward to reading book three. 3.5 stars
Thank you to the publisher and author - I received an advanced reading copy in return for an honest review.
November 23, 2019
Clever, creepy, atmospheric, and perfectly paced...Poirier knocked this one out of the park. The female lead is tough and relatable, with a dark, softer part to her personality that really draws me in and makes me love her. I’m excited to read more books! Poirier has a fan in me.
January 10, 2020
I love that this author doesn’t give away her endings until they happen! Very happy with this read.
February 4, 2020
It’s so refreshing to read a book with a female hardened detective who takes her cases so seriously in a book that isn’t a cosy mystery. The crime scenes are gritty and made my skin crawl, and the investigation was full of twists and turns. This also worked really well as a stand-alone which was very helpful as I hadn’t read the first book!
I wasn’t overly fond of the romance aspect, but I know that’s largely a fault of my own. The characterisation was top-notch, and I really enjoyed the way that we see Claire develop. The reveal is twisted and brings a sense of desperation, which gave this one a real kick.
Thanks to NetGalley for my review copy!
I wasn’t overly fond of the romance aspect, but I know that’s largely a fault of my own. The characterisation was top-notch, and I really enjoyed the way that we see Claire develop. The reveal is twisted and brings a sense of desperation, which gave this one a real kick.
Thanks to NetGalley for my review copy!
March 14, 2020
I really enjoyed book one in this series but book two really sealed the deal as a must read series for me. The author has firmly found her footing with the characters and I enjoyed being reunited with them in this installment. The case is shocking and disturbing. It’s a heart pounding race to the truth. I’m anxiously awaiting book 3 in the series!
August 15, 2020
"Sometimes, I realize there are shadows so big they'll eclipse your entire life, all that you are."
I am not eager to write this review. The cover with an intriguing description drew me to this book. Since this book is one of my first few requests to be approved, my anticipation for this book reached its peak. The other reviewers who had already read this book suggested that it can read as a standalone. That just perked my interest up and I was eager to divulge in this book. I am not disappointed with the book but I didn't particularly live up to my expectations and crushed my anticipation for this book.
Detective Clair Calderwood has just solved her sister, Rachel's and related murder sprees. She has been getting a lot of attention from the media for it and the only interview she had given was to her boyfriend, Noah. Now, she is called to assist Camden's PD after they find a horrific murder scene involving a teenager who is bound naked to the bed with ashes spread over her body and her head covered in a plastic bag, in a local motel. Claire starts the investigation, assisted by a beat cop of Camden PD, Sergeant Austin Pelletier. Amidst this, she finds out Noah is going back to his town to investigate his best friend's mother's murder after some new lead shows up. Claire finds out Noah has kept so many secrets and she feels betrayed. She is afraid that her one proper relationship might come to an end. But her Camden killer strikes again in the same pattern. And again. The case is going cold because those under suspects are easily cleared. The only thread that connects all the victims are their medical history. All the girls murdered had visited the same hospital for treatment. She is sure that their culprit is in the hospital. But who is it?
Predictable. Forget what I said, I am disappointed. It worked well for one time read. Here's what I loved about the book: the cover, the well-planned murder, interrogations/questioning and the writing style of the author. The first quarter of the book is pretty interesting and kept me hooked but after that, everything went downhill. I didn't find a certain death necessary. There are so many aspects of the plot that was left unexplored. I felt that there was just too much attention to romance. I love the combination of murder mystery/romance and I love how they balance each other. The romance is this book is distracting to the reader. It could've been portrayed well and the way their cases intertwined was just so predictable. This was one of my highly anticipated reads and it failed to reach my expectations. The characters are well written but not properly justified. Claire is a strong woman and a really good detective but this book didn't do justice to her character. Maybe, if I have read the first one, that opinion would've been different. Austin could've been so much more. The only character I loved in this book is Harper. The last chapters felt rushed and ruined the book for me.
The only reason why I endured this book is Dea's writing style. I will certainly read whatever she writes next, only for that reason.
I have heard a great deal about the first book of this series which I will check out sometime soon. If that disappoints me as well, I would be heartbroken.
Recommended: Most of the readers of this book liked it and even though, I don't personally recommend it, you can give this a read and judge it for yourself.
I am not eager to write this review. The cover with an intriguing description drew me to this book. Since this book is one of my first few requests to be approved, my anticipation for this book reached its peak. The other reviewers who had already read this book suggested that it can read as a standalone. That just perked my interest up and I was eager to divulge in this book. I am not disappointed with the book but I didn't particularly live up to my expectations and crushed my anticipation for this book.
Detective Clair Calderwood has just solved her sister, Rachel's and related murder sprees. She has been getting a lot of attention from the media for it and the only interview she had given was to her boyfriend, Noah. Now, she is called to assist Camden's PD after they find a horrific murder scene involving a teenager who is bound naked to the bed with ashes spread over her body and her head covered in a plastic bag, in a local motel. Claire starts the investigation, assisted by a beat cop of Camden PD, Sergeant Austin Pelletier. Amidst this, she finds out Noah is going back to his town to investigate his best friend's mother's murder after some new lead shows up. Claire finds out Noah has kept so many secrets and she feels betrayed. She is afraid that her one proper relationship might come to an end. But her Camden killer strikes again in the same pattern. And again. The case is going cold because those under suspects are easily cleared. The only thread that connects all the victims are their medical history. All the girls murdered had visited the same hospital for treatment. She is sure that their culprit is in the hospital. But who is it?
Predictable. Forget what I said, I am disappointed. It worked well for one time read. Here's what I loved about the book: the cover, the well-planned murder, interrogations/questioning and the writing style of the author. The first quarter of the book is pretty interesting and kept me hooked but after that, everything went downhill. I didn't find a certain death necessary. There are so many aspects of the plot that was left unexplored. I felt that there was just too much attention to romance. I love the combination of murder mystery/romance and I love how they balance each other. The romance is this book is distracting to the reader. It could've been portrayed well and the way their cases intertwined was just so predictable. This was one of my highly anticipated reads and it failed to reach my expectations. The characters are well written but not properly justified. Claire is a strong woman and a really good detective but this book didn't do justice to her character. Maybe, if I have read the first one, that opinion would've been different. Austin could've been so much more. The only character I loved in this book is Harper. The last chapters felt rushed and ruined the book for me.
The only reason why I endured this book is Dea's writing style. I will certainly read whatever she writes next, only for that reason.
I have heard a great deal about the first book of this series which I will check out sometime soon. If that disappoints me as well, I would be heartbroken.
Recommended: Most of the readers of this book liked it and even though, I don't personally recommend it, you can give this a read and judge it for yourself.
August 17, 2019
When girls are murdered in this small town community Claire is called to duty as a lead detective. Each girls death is a reminder of her sister’s murder. Claire is determined and dedicated to this case. It’s personal on a level that only Claire and Noah understand.
Overall:
I enjoyed following Claire around this small town interviewing individuals. As a seasoned homicide detective Claire is well respected.
These books are part of the Calderwood Cases series, yet they can be read as a stand-alone. I sensed that this was an extension from another book with a few references mentioned about her sister and Noah.
I thought the killer was careless with his actions making it too easy for Claire to piece together this crime. I’m not sure Claire would’ve succeeded had the killer not been so impatient with his eagerness to kill.
Dea is a tease giving you just enough information to bait the reader. In romance books this is referred to as angst building. Not sure what to reference it in a homicide case.
I like how vulnerable and uncertain Claire is in her relationship with Noah, yet assertive and certain in her position as a homicide detective.
Overall:
I enjoyed following Claire around this small town interviewing individuals. As a seasoned homicide detective Claire is well respected.
These books are part of the Calderwood Cases series, yet they can be read as a stand-alone. I sensed that this was an extension from another book with a few references mentioned about her sister and Noah.
I thought the killer was careless with his actions making it too easy for Claire to piece together this crime. I’m not sure Claire would’ve succeeded had the killer not been so impatient with his eagerness to kill.
Dea is a tease giving you just enough information to bait the reader. In romance books this is referred to as angst building. Not sure what to reference it in a homicide case.
I like how vulnerable and uncertain Claire is in her relationship with Noah, yet assertive and certain in her position as a homicide detective.
September 25, 2019
I read the first book in this series and loved it and was so excited to see a sequel. Unfortunately the second book was not as good as the first. I like the characters Claire and Noah but the story line for this book was honestly boring. I really didn't get into this book till I was almost in the middle of the book. I hate giving bad reviews but I really prefer a book that keeps me reading into the night. If the author does write another book I will watch for it because the first book in this series was great and the writing is good. So crossing my fingers the next book is just as great as the first!
May 22, 2023
Jesus fucking christ. This was the stupidest shit. Is the author 12???? Again, no hygiene from the characters, none are interesting or memorable or likable. The entire story is laughable and took zero creativity. Pretty fucking far fetched to link the murders. My God, anyone can get anything published.
May 26, 2020
*I was provided with an early digital copy, but it has not had any effect on my thoughts or review. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this book.*
As I was browsing Reddit one day, I noticed a post by Dea Poirier. She had posted something about how her first book (Next Girl to Die) has been published, and how excited she was. Upon seeing this, I became intrigued by the book and looked it up. It sounded interesting and had a really nice cover, so I decided to give it a shot. It actually led me to join NetGalley, because the author let me know it was available for review there.
I didn’t know what to expect from Next Girl to Die, but I ended up really enjoying it. For the most part, it was a really solid book and an impressive debut. I liked the main character, enjoyed the unique setting of Vinalhaven, Maine (which I had never heard of before), and thought it was pretty well written.
Thus, when I saw Beneath the Ashes appear on NetGalley, I got excited. When I was approved, I looked forward to spending more time reading about Detective Claire Calderwood. Now that I’ve finished this second book, though, I can’t help but feel underwhelmed.
Simply put, Beneath the Ashes starts off well, but ends up being just okay. The first one was better.
This tale begins right after Next Girl to Die ends, and sends Claire to Camden, Maine, which is just a ferry ride away from her home island of Vinalhaven. She’s been summoned there by Sargent Pelletier, who wishes for her assistance in solving a murder case. One where a young woman’s body has been found tied to a motel bed. There’s no DNA to be found either, because the naked woman’s corpse is covered in cigarette butts from the container outside her room.
As more young women are found in similar states, Claire and her new partner must try to figure out why these girls are being murdered, and what connects them.
The premise is quite interesting, as is the M.O. of the killer. Claire also continues to be a strong female character, and is someone I enjoy reading about. However, there’s too much of a basic, uninspired love story inside of this book, including cringeworthy sex scene(s). Stuff that reads like it’s out of a romance novel.
While Claire’s relationship with Noah is a secondary facet of this book, it hurts the story. I know the author wanted to make workaholic, super detective Claire seem more human through it, but it shows negative traits and feels too predictable. This is especially true of the way things end.
The case, itself, never reaches an insanely interesting level. The author doesn’t give the reader a lot to go on, and then reveals the guilty all of a sudden. This doesn’t exactly make for a gripping mystery or thriller.
As much as I wanted to be hooked by this book and it’s investigation, I wasn’t. Eventually I found myself reading it more quickly to get to the end, because I wasn’t enjoying it like I did the superior first book.
The way things wrapped up, and how things with Noah intertwined, didn’t feel organic. It felt forced. Intrigue, tension and care were lacking. While I still liked Claire, it was hard to care about anyone else involved, partially because a lot of them lacked depth.
Things were also very predictable. I was hoping for more from the big reveal. However, I ended up calling the killer well before. Not because the bread crumbs led there, but because it would be the predictable answer. And I was right.
As much as I enjoyed Dea Poirier’s first novel, her second one didn’t hook or impress me all that much. It’s not bad, but it’s nothing special either. In the end, it’s just a half-decently written and okay book, and a step down from the first.
I wish that wasn’t the case. I was so excited to read this.
As I was browsing Reddit one day, I noticed a post by Dea Poirier. She had posted something about how her first book (Next Girl to Die) has been published, and how excited she was. Upon seeing this, I became intrigued by the book and looked it up. It sounded interesting and had a really nice cover, so I decided to give it a shot. It actually led me to join NetGalley, because the author let me know it was available for review there.
I didn’t know what to expect from Next Girl to Die, but I ended up really enjoying it. For the most part, it was a really solid book and an impressive debut. I liked the main character, enjoyed the unique setting of Vinalhaven, Maine (which I had never heard of before), and thought it was pretty well written.
Thus, when I saw Beneath the Ashes appear on NetGalley, I got excited. When I was approved, I looked forward to spending more time reading about Detective Claire Calderwood. Now that I’ve finished this second book, though, I can’t help but feel underwhelmed.
Simply put, Beneath the Ashes starts off well, but ends up being just okay. The first one was better.
This tale begins right after Next Girl to Die ends, and sends Claire to Camden, Maine, which is just a ferry ride away from her home island of Vinalhaven. She’s been summoned there by Sargent Pelletier, who wishes for her assistance in solving a murder case. One where a young woman’s body has been found tied to a motel bed. There’s no DNA to be found either, because the naked woman’s corpse is covered in cigarette butts from the container outside her room.
As more young women are found in similar states, Claire and her new partner must try to figure out why these girls are being murdered, and what connects them.
The premise is quite interesting, as is the M.O. of the killer. Claire also continues to be a strong female character, and is someone I enjoy reading about. However, there’s too much of a basic, uninspired love story inside of this book, including cringeworthy sex scene(s). Stuff that reads like it’s out of a romance novel.
While Claire’s relationship with Noah is a secondary facet of this book, it hurts the story. I know the author wanted to make workaholic, super detective Claire seem more human through it, but it shows negative traits and feels too predictable. This is especially true of the way things end.
The case, itself, never reaches an insanely interesting level. The author doesn’t give the reader a lot to go on, and then reveals the guilty all of a sudden. This doesn’t exactly make for a gripping mystery or thriller.
As much as I wanted to be hooked by this book and it’s investigation, I wasn’t. Eventually I found myself reading it more quickly to get to the end, because I wasn’t enjoying it like I did the superior first book.
The way things wrapped up, and how things with Noah intertwined, didn’t feel organic. It felt forced. Intrigue, tension and care were lacking. While I still liked Claire, it was hard to care about anyone else involved, partially because a lot of them lacked depth.
Things were also very predictable. I was hoping for more from the big reveal. However, I ended up calling the killer well before. Not because the bread crumbs led there, but because it would be the predictable answer. And I was right.
As much as I enjoyed Dea Poirier’s first novel, her second one didn’t hook or impress me all that much. It’s not bad, but it’s nothing special either. In the end, it’s just a half-decently written and okay book, and a step down from the first.
I wish that wasn’t the case. I was so excited to read this.
January 6, 2020
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I have to admit that I was totally caught off guard by some of the events in this book. Some of the twists I could guess at and had my suspicions over, but at least one thing happened that I really didn’t see coming. I think the author has gotten better at telling a coherent story, and you can see a marked difference between this and her previous novel. There are no missing segues from scene to scene, the dialog flows better, and the small details are given freely. All of the characters feel very real, and I can’t help myself from becoming attached to them.
“I glance at him, and it breaks my heart, because all I can wonder is if or when I’m going to lose him too. Death follows me, and I’m trapped in a dance with it. A death spiral. Sometimes I wonder if I should even bother, if I should stretch myself beyond the bounds of my work. Is it worth it?”
I was glad to see more Roxie in this book- she’s a great character and I love her friendship with Claire. They’re no bullshit and pick up right where they left off even if they haven’t seen each other in months. When Clare was making decisions about Noah, I wanted to scream advice at her, but then Roxie swooped in to tell Claire all the things I was thinking. When I read the blurb for this book, I was a little worried that the relationship drama between Claire and Noah would take too much time away from the mystery plot, but the author did a great job of keeping a comfortable balance between the two.
I like that Claire has been assisting different police precincts with homicide investigations; it keeps the secondary characters fresh and changes up the scenery without being too different than the previous books and still keeping to the same general area. The addition of Austin in this book felt well placed and I enjoyed seeing her work in tandem with Claire. The author always manages to bring up women’s issues in a way that isn’t shoving a message down the reader’s throat, while also pointing out some of the difficulties women can face because of their gender.
“My size doesn’t make me any less of a police officer. I went through the same training they did. I’ve taken down perps that outweighed me by at least one hundred and fifty pounds. I am going in there whether you like it or not. So pick the two other officers that you’re sending in with me,” I say, my words sharp as knives. I’m not sitting this one out. They called me in to hunt this guy, and that’s exactly what I’m going to do. I will not stay on the sidelines while they finish this up for me.”
Overall, I’m really enjoying these books and these characters, and I’m excited to see what comes next. I’m hoping that the author decides to continue with this series and that they continue to get better and better. The ending was left open in regards to what Claire will do next, so I’m looking forward to finding out where the novels go from here, and will be keeping an eye out for the next installment.
I have to admit that I was totally caught off guard by some of the events in this book. Some of the twists I could guess at and had my suspicions over, but at least one thing happened that I really didn’t see coming. I think the author has gotten better at telling a coherent story, and you can see a marked difference between this and her previous novel. There are no missing segues from scene to scene, the dialog flows better, and the small details are given freely. All of the characters feel very real, and I can’t help myself from becoming attached to them.
“I glance at him, and it breaks my heart, because all I can wonder is if or when I’m going to lose him too. Death follows me, and I’m trapped in a dance with it. A death spiral. Sometimes I wonder if I should even bother, if I should stretch myself beyond the bounds of my work. Is it worth it?”
I was glad to see more Roxie in this book- she’s a great character and I love her friendship with Claire. They’re no bullshit and pick up right where they left off even if they haven’t seen each other in months. When Clare was making decisions about Noah, I wanted to scream advice at her, but then Roxie swooped in to tell Claire all the things I was thinking. When I read the blurb for this book, I was a little worried that the relationship drama between Claire and Noah would take too much time away from the mystery plot, but the author did a great job of keeping a comfortable balance between the two.
I like that Claire has been assisting different police precincts with homicide investigations; it keeps the secondary characters fresh and changes up the scenery without being too different than the previous books and still keeping to the same general area. The addition of Austin in this book felt well placed and I enjoyed seeing her work in tandem with Claire. The author always manages to bring up women’s issues in a way that isn’t shoving a message down the reader’s throat, while also pointing out some of the difficulties women can face because of their gender.
“My size doesn’t make me any less of a police officer. I went through the same training they did. I’ve taken down perps that outweighed me by at least one hundred and fifty pounds. I am going in there whether you like it or not. So pick the two other officers that you’re sending in with me,” I say, my words sharp as knives. I’m not sitting this one out. They called me in to hunt this guy, and that’s exactly what I’m going to do. I will not stay on the sidelines while they finish this up for me.”
Overall, I’m really enjoying these books and these characters, and I’m excited to see what comes next. I’m hoping that the author decides to continue with this series and that they continue to get better and better. The ending was left open in regards to what Claire will do next, so I’m looking forward to finding out where the novels go from here, and will be keeping an eye out for the next installment.
November 28, 2019
Check out our Beneath the Ashes post on Wicked Reads.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Avid Reader – ☆☆☆☆☆
M/F Thriller
Claire is recovering from solving her sister’s murder when she's asked to help in a nearby community that isn't used to dealing with murder. What Claire finds when she arrives is a grisly scene. Woman murdered, tied to a bed and covered in ashes. Is this a forensic countermeasure? Someone treating this woman as trash? The questions continue to pile up, without many answers.
When it becomes clear that there is a serial killer among this small community, it will take all of Claire's investigatory skills, as well as a little help from Noah, to figure out how to keep the young women of the community safe.
Noah is still part of this story, but more in a peripheral setting. He is off working on his own case while Claire is working on hers. While they aren't together a whole lot, their paths intertwine and they have some issues to work out.
The story is full of suspects. Claire is trying to piece it all together, while racing against the murderer. Just when you think she's figured part of the story out, a twist is thrown in and you have to start all over again.
Triggers: Murder
Reviewers received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
March 19, 2020
This eARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
When Detective Claire Calderwood is called to assist Camden’s PD in the investigation of a horrific and grisly teenage murder, she doesn’t expect to have a serial killer on her hands.
Young women are dying. Bound naked to a cheap motel room bed, heads covered in a plastic bag, and ashes sprinkled over their bodies. They have little in common, yet Claire goes to work, determined to discover who is behind these murders.
I found Claire to be a strong and intriguing character to watch as the story unfolds. It’s nice to see a jaded female detective who has the grit necessary to get the job done, yet still has a heart of compassion for those around her. She is tough, but I found her to also have an endearing vulnerability as she navigates her personal life in the midst of the flurry of the investigation. At times, the romance between Claire and Noah, her investigative journalist boyfriend, felt a little distracting to the plot. However, their relationship ups and downs added a deeper level and relatability to the storyline.
Dea Poirier writes in a very thorough police procedural style. There were times when I wondered if such painstaking detail was necessary as we are walked through the process of the investigation, yet the story is well-paced nonetheless. This is no cozy mystery either. The details and descriptions are fairly gruesome and grisly.
The author keeps the mystery going right up to the end. It’s hard to surprise me when it comes to the culprit of a mystery/thriller, but I wasn’t expecting the murderer to end up being who it was.
All-in-all, this is an intriguing read if you are a fan of police procedurals. Claire Calderwood is a great character and I look forward to catching up with her in the next installment.
When Detective Claire Calderwood is called to assist Camden’s PD in the investigation of a horrific and grisly teenage murder, she doesn’t expect to have a serial killer on her hands.
Young women are dying. Bound naked to a cheap motel room bed, heads covered in a plastic bag, and ashes sprinkled over their bodies. They have little in common, yet Claire goes to work, determined to discover who is behind these murders.
I found Claire to be a strong and intriguing character to watch as the story unfolds. It’s nice to see a jaded female detective who has the grit necessary to get the job done, yet still has a heart of compassion for those around her. She is tough, but I found her to also have an endearing vulnerability as she navigates her personal life in the midst of the flurry of the investigation. At times, the romance between Claire and Noah, her investigative journalist boyfriend, felt a little distracting to the plot. However, their relationship ups and downs added a deeper level and relatability to the storyline.
Dea Poirier writes in a very thorough police procedural style. There were times when I wondered if such painstaking detail was necessary as we are walked through the process of the investigation, yet the story is well-paced nonetheless. This is no cozy mystery either. The details and descriptions are fairly gruesome and grisly.
The author keeps the mystery going right up to the end. It’s hard to surprise me when it comes to the culprit of a mystery/thriller, but I wasn’t expecting the murderer to end up being who it was.
All-in-all, this is an intriguing read if you are a fan of police procedurals. Claire Calderwood is a great character and I look forward to catching up with her in the next installment.
August 15, 2019
Beneath the Ashes by Dea Poirier is a “who done it” mystery thriller with a couple of intriguing twists throughout the book. This book also captures police procedure and has the reader follow through as the case unfolds. While the book itself isn’t overly complicated with the “who done it”, it isn’t a super easy conclusion either. I enjoyed trying to figure it out as everything unfolded.
The characters are one of my favorite parts of this book. Poirier has added just the right amount of supporting characters to really make things interesting. She has given the supporting characters just enough details and intrigue that keeps me wanting to know more. As in her previous story, Detective Calderwood continues to be a strong female detective who is determined to solve the case. Noah, Claire’s significant other is given more back story and plays a part in helping to solve the current case. There is also some tension that arises which adds to the intrigue. Poirier gives Roxie, Claire’s best friend and former partner a staring role that sets the future for additional Calderwood cases and plot development.
I would have to say that the biggest downside to this book is the “who done it” character seemed to not be as developed as I felt they should have been which makes me wonder if originally the bad guy was going to be someone else.
I look forward to continuing the Calderwood cases!
Thank you to the publisher as I received an advanced reading copy of this book in return for an honest review.
The characters are one of my favorite parts of this book. Poirier has added just the right amount of supporting characters to really make things interesting. She has given the supporting characters just enough details and intrigue that keeps me wanting to know more. As in her previous story, Detective Calderwood continues to be a strong female detective who is determined to solve the case. Noah, Claire’s significant other is given more back story and plays a part in helping to solve the current case. There is also some tension that arises which adds to the intrigue. Poirier gives Roxie, Claire’s best friend and former partner a staring role that sets the future for additional Calderwood cases and plot development.
I would have to say that the biggest downside to this book is the “who done it” character seemed to not be as developed as I felt they should have been which makes me wonder if originally the bad guy was going to be someone else.
I look forward to continuing the Calderwood cases!
Thank you to the publisher as I received an advanced reading copy of this book in return for an honest review.
November 1, 2019
Oooooh am I happy to have happened upon this series, I love a good Detective series and always on the lookout to add new ones to my ever growing list…. Although Beneath the Ashes is the second in the Det Claire Calderwood series, I had no issue reading it as a standalone although having enjoyed it immensely (in a sick and twisted way ha ha), I will be going back to read the first book.
The body of a young woman is found in a motel room tied to a bed with a plastic bag over her head, the entire contents of an ashtray can tipped over the body…. A sex game gone wrong? Highly unlikely, Calderwood is called in to help as she has vast knowledge and experience with murders and although she is still raw from finally solving the murder of her sister together with her boyfriend and reporter, Noah Washington, she will give this case her all, she wants justice for this girl and her family. With no clues and the scene/body destroyed with the DNA from the ashes, where to begin?
A couple of nights later, same motel, same thing happens again… are they on the hunt for a serial killer although technically the body count has to be 3 to even consider that…. Claire knows in her own mind that this is the work of a practised killer and more bodies will mount up.
Thoroughly enjoyed this, a great police procedural mystery with side stories including personal to the characters, it was fast paced, couldn’t put it down, and sure wouldn’t be a mystery without some twists thrown in so get ready! Highly recommend.
The body of a young woman is found in a motel room tied to a bed with a plastic bag over her head, the entire contents of an ashtray can tipped over the body…. A sex game gone wrong? Highly unlikely, Calderwood is called in to help as she has vast knowledge and experience with murders and although she is still raw from finally solving the murder of her sister together with her boyfriend and reporter, Noah Washington, she will give this case her all, she wants justice for this girl and her family. With no clues and the scene/body destroyed with the DNA from the ashes, where to begin?
A couple of nights later, same motel, same thing happens again… are they on the hunt for a serial killer although technically the body count has to be 3 to even consider that…. Claire knows in her own mind that this is the work of a practised killer and more bodies will mount up.
Thoroughly enjoyed this, a great police procedural mystery with side stories including personal to the characters, it was fast paced, couldn’t put it down, and sure wouldn’t be a mystery without some twists thrown in so get ready! Highly recommend.
September 3, 2020
I enjoyed this book, but what stands out to me is that nothing about it really stands out. It has a decent plot and the author writes beautifully, but I suppose it just didn't have any extra 'oomph.' For example, I read the previous book in this series just a few months ago, but I can't remember much of anything about it. And the little that this story reveals about it still wasn't enough. This time around, Claire is assisting the police with murders that are occurring in hotel rooms, where the victim is asphyxiated and cigarette ashes are dumped over the body. The victims are young females who have been recent patients at a local hospital. There's clearly a connection there, and workers at the hospital are determined to assist the detective as little as possible.
That's really about it, save for the sub-plot involving Claire's boyfriend Noah. He travels back home to research a cold case murder he is obsessed with, which may have a new body related to the previous murders. Claire finds out he hasn't been honest with her about his past and she starts doubting their relationship.
I'm not sure if I'd be too interested in continuing with this series but it holds a certain appeal that readers will enjoy. Especially if Claire's friend, Roxie, becomes more of a central figure to the story line. She seems like just the right character to give the series the extra spice that it needs.
That's really about it, save for the sub-plot involving Claire's boyfriend Noah. He travels back home to research a cold case murder he is obsessed with, which may have a new body related to the previous murders. Claire finds out he hasn't been honest with her about his past and she starts doubting their relationship.
I'm not sure if I'd be too interested in continuing with this series but it holds a certain appeal that readers will enjoy. Especially if Claire's friend, Roxie, becomes more of a central figure to the story line. She seems like just the right character to give the series the extra spice that it needs.
October 10, 2019
Beneath the Ashes is the second in Poirier’s Calderwood series. Detective Claire Calderwood is investigate a murder in a nearby community across the island where she lives. When a girl’s body is discovered tied to the bed of a hotel room and covered with ashes from an ash can. There are no witnesses and the efficacy of the few clues has been diluted with DNA from multiple cigarettes. Claire must handle her past (the death of her sister) while figuring out who killed this girl. When another girl is found, Claire is faced tracking down one very smart serial killer.
The pacing of the novel is fast and intense enough that I read it in one sitting. The police procedural aspect seems accurate. Claire is tough enough to be a cop, but with enough flaws to be human. Though this is the second in the series and I hadn’t read #1 (Next Girl to Die), I was able to read Beneath the Ashes without difficulty. My only complaint was that Noah, Claire’s boyfriend, isn’t well realized, but that may be because he was well-delineated in book one.
The New England winter is almost a character in itself.
This book might do well read in conjunction with The Winter Sister by Megan Collins. Both books deal with the loss of a sister via murder, but the The Winter Sister is told from the POV of a “civilian” while Beneath the Ashes is told from the police POV.
The pacing of the novel is fast and intense enough that I read it in one sitting. The police procedural aspect seems accurate. Claire is tough enough to be a cop, but with enough flaws to be human. Though this is the second in the series and I hadn’t read #1 (Next Girl to Die), I was able to read Beneath the Ashes without difficulty. My only complaint was that Noah, Claire’s boyfriend, isn’t well realized, but that may be because he was well-delineated in book one.
The New England winter is almost a character in itself.
This book might do well read in conjunction with The Winter Sister by Megan Collins. Both books deal with the loss of a sister via murder, but the The Winter Sister is told from the POV of a “civilian” while Beneath the Ashes is told from the police POV.
December 1, 2020
Sophomore efforts are often a bust when it comes to mystery novels. However, this was NOT the case with Dea Poirier's latest thriller. While I thought her first novel was a solid read, it was clear that her writing skills were on point with her second Claire Calderwood story.
The story begins with a body discovered in a motel. A young woman is found tied up and covered with ashes. It's clear that this killer is trying to send a message with his victim. Claire is instantly catapulted back to the past, and to the murder of her sister years ago. As Claire becomes embroiled in the case, relying on her reporter boyfriend to help support her, it becomes clear that Noah might be hiding a mystery of his own. Soon thereafter, a second body is found, and it appears that the killings may be the work of a serial killer.
As Claire works frantically to unearth the perpetrator before he strikes again, she also struggles with her relationship with Noah. Is he trying to hide something from her? And if so, can Claire continue to trust him to help her target the killer before he can kill again?
This was a really fast-paced and interesting read. The character development was strong, and there were enough twists and turns to keep me thoroughly engaged. I am eagerly looking forward to Poirier's next novel, and to see her continued development as a mystery author.
The story begins with a body discovered in a motel. A young woman is found tied up and covered with ashes. It's clear that this killer is trying to send a message with his victim. Claire is instantly catapulted back to the past, and to the murder of her sister years ago. As Claire becomes embroiled in the case, relying on her reporter boyfriend to help support her, it becomes clear that Noah might be hiding a mystery of his own. Soon thereafter, a second body is found, and it appears that the killings may be the work of a serial killer.
As Claire works frantically to unearth the perpetrator before he strikes again, she also struggles with her relationship with Noah. Is he trying to hide something from her? And if so, can Claire continue to trust him to help her target the killer before he can kill again?
This was a really fast-paced and interesting read. The character development was strong, and there were enough twists and turns to keep me thoroughly engaged. I am eagerly looking forward to Poirier's next novel, and to see her continued development as a mystery author.
February 19, 2021
While I believe this book was better than the first one, it still suffered in terms of pacing. It feels that everything is rushed to be wrapped up within the last few pages which makes the payoff of reading it, feel deflated in a sense. I’ve read a lot of “gritty female detective against the world” books in the last few years and they all have the same tone. Tiny woman detective who is hot but damaged is the toughest cop there is and no one can stop her from getting her bad guy. Which isn’t an issue, just a very common theme from novels like these.
I like Claire and hope the author does write more, but I’m also not DYING to have another one out immediately.
**Marking as a spoiler to talk about my least favorite bit:**
I was actually very upset about how the book dealt with Austin. For one, we learn very little about her and then, surprise!! she’s a single mom, but wait there’s more, she gets MURDERED. For no good reason. I know the author clearly set Claire up with a female partner because she has Noah and Claire fighting and didn’t want to set it up for a love triangle situation, but I think Austin could have been better utilized, especially for future novels. Just felt very cheap.
I like Claire and hope the author does write more, but I’m also not DYING to have another one out immediately.
**Marking as a spoiler to talk about my least favorite bit:**
I was actually very upset about how the book dealt with Austin. For one, we learn very little about her and then, surprise!! she’s a single mom, but wait there’s more, she gets MURDERED. For no good reason. I know the author clearly set Claire up with a female partner because she has Noah and Claire fighting and didn’t want to set it up for a love triangle situation, but I think Austin could have been better utilized, especially for future novels. Just felt very cheap.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 19, 2021
3.5 Stars
I remember really liking the first book in this series. I probably shouldn't have waited so long to read this second installment. I couldn't remember the characters very well, which made Noah, the love interest in this book, seem kind of bland. I couldn't connect with him, really. He seemed nice enough, and the main character, Claire, was all hung up on him, though it seemed to me she could have easily forgotten him, or maybe that was just me.
Claire is a little more relatable and memorable, at least! She's helping investigate a new series of women being murdered in hotel rooms while, of course, still reeling from the memories of her sister's murder. The clues lead them to all kinds of suspects, most of which don't seem all that innocent when all is said and done even after it's revealed they weren't the bad guy in this case. That, of course, makes the story all the more interesting because you've got all these questionable characters who definitely make you wonder who the killer could be.
This was a quick read for me, finishing the audiobook in just a few hours in one day. The mystery part was good. The romance, well, thankfully it wasn't too much of the story.
I remember really liking the first book in this series. I probably shouldn't have waited so long to read this second installment. I couldn't remember the characters very well, which made Noah, the love interest in this book, seem kind of bland. I couldn't connect with him, really. He seemed nice enough, and the main character, Claire, was all hung up on him, though it seemed to me she could have easily forgotten him, or maybe that was just me.
Claire is a little more relatable and memorable, at least! She's helping investigate a new series of women being murdered in hotel rooms while, of course, still reeling from the memories of her sister's murder. The clues lead them to all kinds of suspects, most of which don't seem all that innocent when all is said and done even after it's revealed they weren't the bad guy in this case. That, of course, makes the story all the more interesting because you've got all these questionable characters who definitely make you wonder who the killer could be.
This was a quick read for me, finishing the audiobook in just a few hours in one day. The mystery part was good. The romance, well, thankfully it wasn't too much of the story.
November 18, 2019
The first book in this series, The Next Girl to Die, totally captivated me. The heart of the story touched me. It felt personal. Unfortunately, this book didn't give me the same depth of emotion. It came across more police procedural, Joe Friday-esque.
I enjoyed following along as Det. Calderwood pieced together clues and interviewed witnesses. It gave me a true sense of what LE goes through as they try to solve a crime. Putting together pieces of information, discarding others, second-guessing what could be important but might not mean a thing -- the thought process was fascinating.
But I felt the human element was missing. Until problems with Noah surfaced. Her struggle with trying to solve this crime and stay ahead of a killer, while questioning her relationship and dealing with residual grief over her sister's murder, finally gave me what I'd been missing: her humanity.
I only hope the next book is less procedural and back to the flavor of her first book where I could feel and experience what it means to be affected on a deep level, all while maintaining professionalism in difficult situations.
I enjoyed following along as Det. Calderwood pieced together clues and interviewed witnesses. It gave me a true sense of what LE goes through as they try to solve a crime. Putting together pieces of information, discarding others, second-guessing what could be important but might not mean a thing -- the thought process was fascinating.
But I felt the human element was missing. Until problems with Noah surfaced. Her struggle with trying to solve this crime and stay ahead of a killer, while questioning her relationship and dealing with residual grief over her sister's murder, finally gave me what I'd been missing: her humanity.
I only hope the next book is less procedural and back to the flavor of her first book where I could feel and experience what it means to be affected on a deep level, all while maintaining professionalism in difficult situations.
April 22, 2020
After reading the first book by this author, I decided to read the second one. It was difficult to get past the errors in this story. Between the typing errors and the time-line of the story, it appears as if this book wasn't edited very well. I wasn't sure how I felt about the characters in the story, but after reading the second book, I definitely wouldn't read another book by this author. The main character is Claire Calderwood, who comes from a small town in Maine. After growing up in the area, she moves to Detroit. She's stubborn about following orders from her superiors, including doing things that put her directly into harms way. Much of the story in this book (and the previous one) have multiple instances of her just barreling into things without regard to herself, or others. It seems like this story is just a bit too forced. As a person who usually reads books about crime/murder by Patricia Cornwell, I felt like the storyline for this character has too many things just neatly fall into place to wrap up the book, without actually getting me invested into it, or who she is as a person.
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