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Autumn Trent #1
Autumn's Game
‘Till death do us part’ has never been so true...
Armed with a slew of advanced degrees and powerful intuition, forensic psychologist Dr. Autumn Trent is ready to conquer the world and touch the lives of its seven billion inhabitants. She’s prepared to fight for justice, right the wrongs...because she knows what it’s like to be wronged.
As a child, a single blow from her father left her changed forever. Her body survived the aftermath, but her brain was altered in ways that were both good and bad. As a freak, she poured herself into her studies, accumulating all the knowledge she could, intent on whipping broken systems into shape. Take down criminals one by one, even if it means putting her own life on the line.
When a brutal double homicide shocks the town of Sawmill, Oregon, the FBI needs Autumn’s specialized assistance. The couple’s daughter, just beginning a life of her own, disappears the same night as their murder. Was she kidnapped by a merciless killer, or is she his equally heartless accomplice? Or worse?
Accompanied by a boss who undermines her instincts and patience at every turn, Autumn soon realizes that their killer has just begun his true mission of punishing parents who break their marital vows. As the body count rises, so do the stakes as the killer escalates quickly. What began as a hunt for a nineteen year old girl turns into Autumn’s game of cat and mouse.
Armed with a slew of advanced degrees and powerful intuition, forensic psychologist Dr. Autumn Trent is ready to conquer the world and touch the lives of its seven billion inhabitants. She’s prepared to fight for justice, right the wrongs...because she knows what it’s like to be wronged.
As a child, a single blow from her father left her changed forever. Her body survived the aftermath, but her brain was altered in ways that were both good and bad. As a freak, she poured herself into her studies, accumulating all the knowledge she could, intent on whipping broken systems into shape. Take down criminals one by one, even if it means putting her own life on the line.
When a brutal double homicide shocks the town of Sawmill, Oregon, the FBI needs Autumn’s specialized assistance. The couple’s daughter, just beginning a life of her own, disappears the same night as their murder. Was she kidnapped by a merciless killer, or is she his equally heartless accomplice? Or worse?
Accompanied by a boss who undermines her instincts and patience at every turn, Autumn soon realizes that their killer has just begun his true mission of punishing parents who break their marital vows. As the body count rises, so do the stakes as the killer escalates quickly. What began as a hunt for a nineteen year old girl turns into Autumn’s game of cat and mouse.
400 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 14, 2020
9176 people are currently reading
4332 people want to read
About the author
Mary Stone
218 books2,135 followersTo download my FREE BOOK, click here: https://authormarystone.com/free-book...
Nestled in the tranquil Blue Ridge Mountains of East Tennessee, Mary Stone has transformed her peaceful home, once bustling with her sons, into a creative haven. As her family grew, so did her writing career, evolving from childhood fears to a deep understanding of real-life villains. Her stories, centered around strong, unconventional heroines, weave themes of courage and intrigue.
Mary's journey from a solitary writer to establishing her own publishing house marks a significant evolution, showcasing her commitment to the literary world. Through her writing and publishing endeavors, she continues to captivate and inspire, honoring her lifelong fascination with the mysterious and the courageous.
Nestled in the tranquil Blue Ridge Mountains of East Tennessee, Mary Stone has transformed her peaceful home, once bustling with her sons, into a creative haven. As her family grew, so did her writing career, evolving from childhood fears to a deep understanding of real-life villains. Her stories, centered around strong, unconventional heroines, weave themes of courage and intrigue.
Mary's journey from a solitary writer to establishing her own publishing house marks a significant evolution, showcasing her commitment to the literary world. Through her writing and publishing endeavors, she continues to captivate and inspire, honoring her lifelong fascination with the mysterious and the courageous.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 418 reviews
June 26, 2020
I really loved Autumn, a strong secondary character from the Winter Black series so I was very pleased to see a new spin off series featuring Autumn. I also enjoyed having Winter show up in this opening series book. What I did not enjoy was having Justin Black (one of the villains from Winter Black's series) continue his story in this new series. That character and plot line was beaten to death in the previous series and it should have ended there as that series concluded. As much potential as this book proves to have in this new series featuring Autumn, if that story line is brought over here, I don't know how much I will continue with it. Get over it already. Justin Black is where he should be and let him rot and stay there. Geez!
June 15, 2020
I learned of Mary Stone through a quarantine reading group on Facebook and I am so glad I did. Since then I have read all of her work and am thrilled that Autumns stories are beginning!
Autumn is introduced and quickly becomes an important character and friend in Winters stories. She now returns with more experience in her profession and is determined to figure out what is taking place with Justin and work an interesting new case in Oregon area. In this first book Autumn shows her skillset and unique abilities. She is a kicka** character who is very intelligent and caring.
The case takes a lot of interesting turns that include violent crimes, work place drama, a hint of romance, uncovering if child abuse, and dramatic rescues. The writing is very vivid and draws you into the story and location. I did predict the murderer from the first meeting, but it did not lessen the intensity of the suspense and solving of the case.
Winter and others from the original series do show up in this story, but one could still read this and enjoy it without reading Winters series. I would recommend reading it because it is amazing and gives a lot of important background to unique abilities, relationship concerns, training, etc., but it is not required to enjoy Autumns.
Thanks for the chance to read the book and share my opinion!
Autumn is introduced and quickly becomes an important character and friend in Winters stories. She now returns with more experience in her profession and is determined to figure out what is taking place with Justin and work an interesting new case in Oregon area. In this first book Autumn shows her skillset and unique abilities. She is a kicka** character who is very intelligent and caring.
The case takes a lot of interesting turns that include violent crimes, work place drama, a hint of romance, uncovering if child abuse, and dramatic rescues. The writing is very vivid and draws you into the story and location. I did predict the murderer from the first meeting, but it did not lessen the intensity of the suspense and solving of the case.
Winter and others from the original series do show up in this story, but one could still read this and enjoy it without reading Winters series. I would recommend reading it because it is amazing and gives a lot of important background to unique abilities, relationship concerns, training, etc., but it is not required to enjoy Autumns.
Thanks for the chance to read the book and share my opinion!
June 18, 2020
Dr Autumn Trent is a forensic psychologist with multiple degrees who wants to make a difference in the world. She also has some unique gifts including enhanced intuition after having been put into a coma as a child. She's asked by the FBI to go to Sawmill, Oregon where there has been a brutal double murder to see if she can get a bead on the suspect. One of her first tasks is to determine whether the daughter of the murdered couple was kidnapped or was in on the killing. Autumn also has to deal with an overly friendly boss who demeans and undermines her with every step.
I really loved the book which is full of action and intrigue. I went through a gamut of emotions while reading from cheering Autumn on to having tears in my eyes. I was hooked from beginning to end and am eager for the next book. I highly recommend this one.
I really loved the book which is full of action and intrigue. I went through a gamut of emotions while reading from cheering Autumn on to having tears in my eyes. I was hooked from beginning to end and am eager for the next book. I highly recommend this one.
January 24, 2021
Read 9 books of the Winter Black series waiting for closure on the brothers story, only to find it carried into a new series. I don’t like never ending stories. Going to read something else for a while
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 13, 2020
What a waste of time. Ugh. Okay so what is up with the first book in a series being connected to another series and making constant references to the first series? This is the second book like that that I’ve read this month alone. There should be a warning or something.
Second, Autumn and Winter? Are there going to be more series with Spring and Summer as the leads? I had thought of this before the characters even addressed it themselves! Just honestly eye rolling.
The author seemed to be afraid to let Autumn struggle with her job at all. She knew everything and her boss, who was definitely creepy, just had to be a man child who couldn’t stand to be showed up by his employee also had to hit on her and physically strike her. This “writing” makes Autumn being so hyper competent at her job seem forced and cheap. Of course she’s good at her job when she’s next to Latham. He makes her look better by being an unbelievable caricature of a person.
I also don’t believe the FBI would be trying to lure her away from the lucrative private sector job she has. I don’t get what is so special about her.
The supposed “powers” Autumn and Winter have are really stupid. I like fantasy and sci-fi as much as the next person, and I don’t mind the idea of humans having extrasensory abilities. But that’s not what I want in my mysteries or thrillers. It took me out of the book from the second the author introduced the idea.
There were too many character POVs. I also didn’t like that at the beginning the perspective kept switching back to Winter’s brother Justin, who I guess is the villain from her series. I didn’t read those books, so I couldn’t care about his thoughts and how he wanted to manipulate everyone and get out of prison.
Please don’t waste your time with this one.
Second, Autumn and Winter? Are there going to be more series with Spring and Summer as the leads? I had thought of this before the characters even addressed it themselves! Just honestly eye rolling.
The author seemed to be afraid to let Autumn struggle with her job at all. She knew everything and her boss, who was definitely creepy, just had to be a man child who couldn’t stand to be showed up by his employee also had to hit on her and physically strike her. This “writing” makes Autumn being so hyper competent at her job seem forced and cheap. Of course she’s good at her job when she’s next to Latham. He makes her look better by being an unbelievable caricature of a person.
I also don’t believe the FBI would be trying to lure her away from the lucrative private sector job she has. I don’t get what is so special about her.
The supposed “powers” Autumn and Winter have are really stupid. I like fantasy and sci-fi as much as the next person, and I don’t mind the idea of humans having extrasensory abilities. But that’s not what I want in my mysteries or thrillers. It took me out of the book from the second the author introduced the idea.
There were too many character POVs. I also didn’t like that at the beginning the perspective kept switching back to Winter’s brother Justin, who I guess is the villain from her series. I didn’t read those books, so I couldn’t care about his thoughts and how he wanted to manipulate everyone and get out of prison.
Please don’t waste your time with this one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 19, 2022
Mary Stone is a new author for me. I read this book after a recommendation from a friend. I was pleasantly surprised.
This book has a lot of twists and turns and is full of suspense. After a head injury as a child from a beating from her father Dr. Autumn Trent has a unique gift. She can touch people and feel their feelings as well as other things. When asked to collaborate with the FBI on a serial killing case she is a bit insecure. While truing to get the feel of the killer she has to fend off her boss.
A well written book and I would recommend this to anyone who likes this genre.
This book has a lot of twists and turns and is full of suspense. After a head injury as a child from a beating from her father Dr. Autumn Trent has a unique gift. She can touch people and feel their feelings as well as other things. When asked to collaborate with the FBI on a serial killing case she is a bit insecure. While truing to get the feel of the killer she has to fend off her boss.
A well written book and I would recommend this to anyone who likes this genre.
August 5, 2020
Once again Mary Stone has done it again! I loved her story about Autumn Trent. Her writing is amazing. I've read everything she has written so far and will continue to do so
Autumn's Game was so well written. A page turner until the end! I have read all of Mary Stone's books! Great author
Autumn's Game was so well written. A page turner until the end! I have read all of Mary Stone's books! Great author
June 21, 2020
Fans of Mary Stone's Winter Black series will absolutely love the new series about Autumn Trent! Meet new characters and keep up with favorites in this excellent book!!
June 3, 2023
Late review:
I really liked this one. It's full of mystery and suspense BUT it didn't have the heart stopping or mouth dropping wow moments that I really like. That was the only bummer. However, I like Autumn. She's much more personable than Winter Black. If I remember correctly (been awhile) I didn't like Winter due to the fact she was reckless and dumb. Autumn was more subtle. But she was fierce. I liked every character even the evil ones, meaning every character had a part. The investigation was thorough. Didn't like Adam, but I think that was the point. Didn't like the bad guy because well- your not supposed to. Duh! Winter Black was better as a side character than a main one so really, she was better alongside Autumn.
The story flowed nicely. The only thing that was missing was the heart drop moment or the WOWWWW moment. Otherwise, I think this was really good and I look forward to adding this to my series regulars.
I really liked this one. It's full of mystery and suspense BUT it didn't have the heart stopping or mouth dropping wow moments that I really like. That was the only bummer. However, I like Autumn. She's much more personable than Winter Black. If I remember correctly (been awhile) I didn't like Winter due to the fact she was reckless and dumb. Autumn was more subtle. But she was fierce. I liked every character even the evil ones, meaning every character had a part. The investigation was thorough. Didn't like Adam, but I think that was the point. Didn't like the bad guy because well- your not supposed to. Duh! Winter Black was better as a side character than a main one so really, she was better alongside Autumn.
The story flowed nicely. The only thing that was missing was the heart drop moment or the WOWWWW moment. Otherwise, I think this was really good and I look forward to adding this to my series regulars.
June 15, 2020
I really enjoyed this book but I thought it started out a little slow and it didn't grab me right away like some of Mary's books in the past. Once I got into the book I was excited to see what happened and how Autumn was going to help catch the serial killer. I almost forgot that this was a new series because I already knew some of the characters from the Winter series and that was nice. I am excited to see what the future holds for Dr. Autumn Trent....both professionally and personally. I can't wait for the next book!!
did-not-finish
November 19, 2023DNF ~ Chapter 8 ~ Ridiculous. Reads like a mystery spoof.
June 17, 2020
Another excellent book by Mary Stone. This story has many twists, turns, and mystery. I cannot wait for the next book in the series. It's a must read
June 14, 2020
I loved this book, I really liked the character of Autumn. I love the relationship with Winter and how it ties the two story lines together. Cannot wait for the next one.
January 3, 2021
Couldn't put the book down once I started. Tough heroines, serial killers, FBI Agents, splash of psychic abilities - all my favs.
June 16, 2020
AUTUMN' S GAME is the first installment in the Autumn Trent Series by Mary Stone. This series is a spinoff to the author's acclaimed Winter Black series and Winter and some other characters will turn up.
Ms. Stone again shows her aptitude to write fast-paced, page turning thrillers. Her world and character building are superb and will draw you right into the story -- leaving you feeling like you are part of the action.
There are lots of twists, turns, side plots going on in this first installment of Autumn's story. Autumn is still trying to determine if Justin Black is really insane or faking it. Then she's asked to help in a murder of a family in Oregon and their missing daughter. She's also beginning to doubt her choice of employment.
I can't recommend this author's writing enought. Everything I've read so far is right at the top of be charts.
I did received an advance copy of this Autumn's Game and this is my honest review. Now, to get ready for Autumn’s Break, Book 2 in the Autumn Trent Series.
Ms. Stone again shows her aptitude to write fast-paced, page turning thrillers. Her world and character building are superb and will draw you right into the story -- leaving you feeling like you are part of the action.
There are lots of twists, turns, side plots going on in this first installment of Autumn's story. Autumn is still trying to determine if Justin Black is really insane or faking it. Then she's asked to help in a murder of a family in Oregon and their missing daughter. She's also beginning to doubt her choice of employment.
I can't recommend this author's writing enought. Everything I've read so far is right at the top of be charts.
I did received an advance copy of this Autumn's Game and this is my honest review. Now, to get ready for Autumn’s Break, Book 2 in the Autumn Trent Series.
January 16, 2022
This one is a good thriller, mystery with twists and turns that make a good story, and an ending that satisfies.
Autumn is a doctor of psychology with many degrees and special intuition that makes her the perfect crime solver. What she lacks at this time, is experience. She comes from an abusive family, foster care and has a resolve to help make the world a better place. She knows the foster care system and with the help of her best friend, Winter, FBI agent, she ferrets out the worse people, sometimes ignoring rules and regulations, which puts herself in danger.
I liked the characters and how they interacted with each other. What changed how I felt about Winter as an agent, was her vulnerability where her killer brother, Justin, is concerned. He brought her down so much, that for me, it was hard to imagine her taking control in a crisis. Just my opinion though, and I did enjoy the book.
Autumn is a doctor of psychology with many degrees and special intuition that makes her the perfect crime solver. What she lacks at this time, is experience. She comes from an abusive family, foster care and has a resolve to help make the world a better place. She knows the foster care system and with the help of her best friend, Winter, FBI agent, she ferrets out the worse people, sometimes ignoring rules and regulations, which puts herself in danger.
I liked the characters and how they interacted with each other. What changed how I felt about Winter as an agent, was her vulnerability where her killer brother, Justin, is concerned. He brought her down so much, that for me, it was hard to imagine her taking control in a crisis. Just my opinion though, and I did enjoy the book.
November 5, 2020
WASTE OF BRAIN CELLS
I admit, it was my choice to voluntarily waste some of mine by continuing to the end.....but I was actually fascinated by how bad it was. For one thing, I don't dislike men enough to appreciate the caricatures passing as character developments. I actually thought at first that the author was going for some kind of parody. The female characters were no more believable or relatable. Show, don't tell, that they are strong and capable so readers realize that for themselves.....preaching is for church.
Mainly, though, easily seeing who the villain was from too early in the book was a real bummer. The writing was good from a technical standpoint, but the plot and character development was really poor. I can't even recommend as a beach read
- two stars are purely for the work involved and technical skill.
I admit, it was my choice to voluntarily waste some of mine by continuing to the end.....but I was actually fascinated by how bad it was. For one thing, I don't dislike men enough to appreciate the caricatures passing as character developments. I actually thought at first that the author was going for some kind of parody. The female characters were no more believable or relatable. Show, don't tell, that they are strong and capable so readers realize that for themselves.....preaching is for church.
Mainly, though, easily seeing who the villain was from too early in the book was a real bummer. The writing was good from a technical standpoint, but the plot and character development was really poor. I can't even recommend as a beach read
- two stars are purely for the work involved and technical skill.
June 20, 2021
I had to read Autumn's Game. I had read the introduction to this series, Autumn's Rise, and loved it so much that I wanted to see what Autumn was up to next.
In this book, Autumn is now out of college and is a forensic psychologist. She endured a childhood that left her with an ability and put her into "the system"...foster care. Rather than letting this hamper her, she uses that past to help her when possible.
There is a double murder in Sawmill, Oregon. She goes there at the request of the FBI and ends up in a deadly cat and mouse situation. I don't give away spoilers....just a tease...but if you love drama, suspense and crime situations, you will love this book!
In this book, Autumn is now out of college and is a forensic psychologist. She endured a childhood that left her with an ability and put her into "the system"...foster care. Rather than letting this hamper her, she uses that past to help her when possible.
There is a double murder in Sawmill, Oregon. She goes there at the request of the FBI and ends up in a deadly cat and mouse situation. I don't give away spoilers....just a tease...but if you love drama, suspense and crime situations, you will love this book!
September 6, 2021
Autumn continues to grow
The story line held my interest, intrigued me because I was not able to 'solve' it first, and because there were several issues underlying. The characters are fleshed out well, and the causes and solutions held my interest to the end. I have read the Winter Series and am just starting the Autumn series. I like the series because the characters are carried through into the follow up books, so Winter was the most important in her Series, now Autumn, her new best friend is..but Winter is still there. It is like waiting to see how these characters continue and what they get into next.
The story line held my interest, intrigued me because I was not able to 'solve' it first, and because there were several issues underlying. The characters are fleshed out well, and the causes and solutions held my interest to the end. I have read the Winter Series and am just starting the Autumn series. I like the series because the characters are carried through into the follow up books, so Winter was the most important in her Series, now Autumn, her new best friend is..but Winter is still there. It is like waiting to see how these characters continue and what they get into next.
June 24, 2020
Should have finished the winter series and stopped. The books are going downhill in quality. I love these characters but the series should be over. Poor plot and the killer was beyond obvious from the beginning.
January 19, 2025
Narrator: Brittany Goodwin
I would not have started on this series if I'd known it contains major spoilers for the Winter Black series!
The blurb didn't warn me and the reviews I read, when deciding whether to listen to this, didn't warn me either. I've only listened to 2 Winter Black stories and was introduced to Aidan Parrish whom I thought was a more interesting character than Noah, who ends up as Winter's love interest. Since I wasn't bowled over the two Winter Black books I thought I'd try listening to the Autumn Trent series since Aidan becomes Autumn's love interest.
I was pissed when the book proceeded to fill me in on the events of the Winter Black books, specifically about Winter's brother who had been abducted by The Preacher when Winter was a teenager and whom Winter was still searching for as an FBI agent. The two series are totally different with different characters so there was no reason for the author to drag the Winter Black plot into this newer series. I get aggravated when the killer is resurrected in too many books, worse when they are brought over to a whole new series!
Apart from that annoying bit, the whole child abuse plot was predictable and boring. I hate child/animal abuse in my books and this one had way too many kids. The book felt like it was never going to end and I ended up losing track of the plot and who was whom.
It's really put me off both series because I think the writing doesn't agree with me and it's just me because I see a lot of glowing reviews.
I would not have started on this series if I'd known it contains major spoilers for the Winter Black series!
The blurb didn't warn me and the reviews I read, when deciding whether to listen to this, didn't warn me either. I've only listened to 2 Winter Black stories and was introduced to Aidan Parrish whom I thought was a more interesting character than Noah, who ends up as Winter's love interest. Since I wasn't bowled over the two Winter Black books I thought I'd try listening to the Autumn Trent series since Aidan becomes Autumn's love interest.
I was pissed when the book proceeded to fill me in on the events of the Winter Black books, specifically about Winter's brother who had been abducted by The Preacher when Winter was a teenager and whom Winter was still searching for as an FBI agent. The two series are totally different with different characters so there was no reason for the author to drag the Winter Black plot into this newer series. I get aggravated when the killer is resurrected in too many books, worse when they are brought over to a whole new series!
Apart from that annoying bit, the whole child abuse plot was predictable and boring. I hate child/animal abuse in my books and this one had way too many kids. The book felt like it was never going to end and I ended up losing track of the plot and who was whom.
It's really put me off both series because I think the writing doesn't agree with me and it's just me because I see a lot of glowing reviews.
May 6, 2021
Autumn’s Game by Mary Stone 4/10/2021 Kindle
This is number one in a new series by this author and like an earlier heroine who reappears in this book, Autumn possess a remarkable “gift.” Something like this is a usual turnoff for me as I’m never able to quite believe unnatural abilities, especially when I’m not reading science fiction or fantasy. The “gift’ usually seems to be utilized to allow the main character to discover a clue or a lead to solving a mystery not available through human-person logic. That’s cheating, isn’t it?
Dr. Autumn is a forensic psychologist with a stack of degrees. She is called to the dinky town of Sawmill, Oregon by her consulting company boss to offer advice on a double killing. The firm’s male partner who travels with her, wins creep-of-the-year award in every aspect. The pair are barely finished inspecting the deaths before more follow, with the killer sometimes taking away a hostage.
The book is written in the first persons, note the plural, which takes a paragraph or two to recognize which character’s voice we are hearing. The writing in general, leaves much to the imagination and logic is not considered. Example; we discover clues a missing girl might be kept in a remote cabin. We surround the place, and hear a weak cry for help. We trace the sound to a well and, voila!, there is the girl-object of our search! What are the very first words out of your mouth? “How did you get here?” It took restraint not to toss my Kindle across the room.
Yes, I finished it, but I’m sorry I can’t recommend others do so.
This is number one in a new series by this author and like an earlier heroine who reappears in this book, Autumn possess a remarkable “gift.” Something like this is a usual turnoff for me as I’m never able to quite believe unnatural abilities, especially when I’m not reading science fiction or fantasy. The “gift’ usually seems to be utilized to allow the main character to discover a clue or a lead to solving a mystery not available through human-person logic. That’s cheating, isn’t it?
Dr. Autumn is a forensic psychologist with a stack of degrees. She is called to the dinky town of Sawmill, Oregon by her consulting company boss to offer advice on a double killing. The firm’s male partner who travels with her, wins creep-of-the-year award in every aspect. The pair are barely finished inspecting the deaths before more follow, with the killer sometimes taking away a hostage.
The book is written in the first persons, note the plural, which takes a paragraph or two to recognize which character’s voice we are hearing. The writing in general, leaves much to the imagination and logic is not considered. Example; we discover clues a missing girl might be kept in a remote cabin. We surround the place, and hear a weak cry for help. We trace the sound to a well and, voila!, there is the girl-object of our search! What are the very first words out of your mouth? “How did you get here?” It took restraint not to toss my Kindle across the room.
Yes, I finished it, but I’m sorry I can’t recommend others do so.
December 31, 2025
4 - 4.5 Stars
‘Driven by the trauma of her family’s brutal destruction, FBI Special Agent Winter Black is determined to take down her parents’ killer and every villain in her path. Little does she know, her biggest threat is much closer to home.’
Winter's Mourn is Book Ten in the Winter Black Series (Autumn Trent Book #1) by Mary Stone. These books follow Special Agent Winter Black, whose life was shattered when her parents were murdered, and her little brother was believed to have been killed by a serial killer known as The Preacher. Years later, she’s not only chasing down dangerous criminals but also searching for the truth about her brother - a thread that runs through the entire series.
Here, you get the adrenaline rush of intense investigations - serial killers, twisted motives, and plenty of edge-of-your-seat moments - but also the personal side of Winter’s life. She’s tough and determined, but she’s also human, dealing with grief, trust issues, and complicated relationships.
Mary Stone’s writing is easy to sink into. The chapters are short and snappy, which made it really hard to put the books down. Each installment has its own case to solve, but there’s always that bigger mystery in the background, so you’ll probably want to read them in consecutive order to get the full picture and impact.
If you like shows like Criminal Minds or enjoy crime series with a mix of action as well as character depth, then this series is a solid choice.
Engaging, bingeable, and packed with both thrills and heart.
Happy Reading…
‘Driven by the trauma of her family’s brutal destruction, FBI Special Agent Winter Black is determined to take down her parents’ killer and every villain in her path. Little does she know, her biggest threat is much closer to home.’
Winter's Mourn is Book Ten in the Winter Black Series (Autumn Trent Book #1) by Mary Stone. These books follow Special Agent Winter Black, whose life was shattered when her parents were murdered, and her little brother was believed to have been killed by a serial killer known as The Preacher. Years later, she’s not only chasing down dangerous criminals but also searching for the truth about her brother - a thread that runs through the entire series.
Here, you get the adrenaline rush of intense investigations - serial killers, twisted motives, and plenty of edge-of-your-seat moments - but also the personal side of Winter’s life. She’s tough and determined, but she’s also human, dealing with grief, trust issues, and complicated relationships.
Mary Stone’s writing is easy to sink into. The chapters are short and snappy, which made it really hard to put the books down. Each installment has its own case to solve, but there’s always that bigger mystery in the background, so you’ll probably want to read them in consecutive order to get the full picture and impact.
If you like shows like Criminal Minds or enjoy crime series with a mix of action as well as character depth, then this series is a solid choice.
Engaging, bingeable, and packed with both thrills and heart.
Happy Reading…
October 5, 2024
Armed with a slew of advanced degrees and powerful intuition, forensic psychologist Dr. Autumn Trent is ready to conquer the world and touch the lives of its seven billion inhabitants. She’s prepared to fight for justice, right the wrongs...because she knows what it’s like to be wronged.
As a child, a single blow from her father left her changed forever. Her body survived the aftermath, but her brain was altered in ways that were both good and bad. As a freak, she poured herself into her studies, accumulating all the knowledge she could, intent on whipping broken systems into shape. Take down criminals one by one, even if it means putting her own life on the line.
When a brutal double homicide shocks the town of Sawmill, Oregon, the FBI needs Autumn’s specialized assistance. The couple’s daughter, just beginning a life of her own, disappears the same night as their murder. Was she kidnapped by a merciless killer, or is she his equally heartless accomplice? Or worse?
Accompanied by a boss who undermines her instincts and patience at every turn, Autumn soon realizes that their killer has just begun his true mission of punishing parents who break their marital vows. As the body count rises, so do the stakes as the killer escalates quickly. What began as a hunt for a nineteen year old girl turns into Autumn’s game of cat and mouse.
As a child, a single blow from her father left her changed forever. Her body survived the aftermath, but her brain was altered in ways that were both good and bad. As a freak, she poured herself into her studies, accumulating all the knowledge she could, intent on whipping broken systems into shape. Take down criminals one by one, even if it means putting her own life on the line.
When a brutal double homicide shocks the town of Sawmill, Oregon, the FBI needs Autumn’s specialized assistance. The couple’s daughter, just beginning a life of her own, disappears the same night as their murder. Was she kidnapped by a merciless killer, or is she his equally heartless accomplice? Or worse?
Accompanied by a boss who undermines her instincts and patience at every turn, Autumn soon realizes that their killer has just begun his true mission of punishing parents who break their marital vows. As the body count rises, so do the stakes as the killer escalates quickly. What began as a hunt for a nineteen year old girl turns into Autumn’s game of cat and mouse.
February 19, 2022
Autumn's Game had an entertaining storyline: a typical crime thriller with strong, smart, independent female protagonist. Autumn is a former foster kid (gotta have that storied past) who is now working as a psychologist who specializes in criminals, profiling, and crime prevention. She is working with the FBI to solve a slew of murders surrounding a small town.
There were a few things I just couldn't get past while reading though. First, an inordinate amount of time is spent describing Autumn's clothing and appearance. At one point, the word "demure" is used three times to describe the same outfit. Additionally, while there was no mention in any descriptions of this book being supernatural or fantasy in any way, there are not one, but two characters who seemed to have developed superpowers from head injuries received as children. Come on! Oh, and one of those characters is Autumn's best friend- WINTER.
Autumn grew up in the system, had a rough family life, and really had to pull herself up by her bootstraps to pay her way through school and become the successful young woman she is. This is great character development, and explains a lot about her reasoning for many decisions throughout the novel. However, she brings it up constantly. I lost count, but she would discuss it with nearly everyone she interviewed. This was unrealistic. We as the readers understand her history and why she is is behaving the way she is, it doesn't need to be spelled out. There were two or three situations where her bringing it up could have been beneficial to the plot, but not nearly as many times as it did happen.
I did really appreciate the author's character building. Overall I thought Stone created realistic characters with depth. Even the misogynist was really well written. She got into his head and revealed his thinking to the audience. I liked Autumn despite her "mind reading" ability. I think she would have been just as strong a character without this ability.
Overall, an entertaining read. I may give more books in the series a try, but I wouldn't be heartbroken if I didn't.
There were a few things I just couldn't get past while reading though. First, an inordinate amount of time is spent describing Autumn's clothing and appearance. At one point, the word "demure" is used three times to describe the same outfit. Additionally, while there was no mention in any descriptions of this book being supernatural or fantasy in any way, there are not one, but two characters who seemed to have developed superpowers from head injuries received as children. Come on! Oh, and one of those characters is Autumn's best friend- WINTER.
Autumn grew up in the system, had a rough family life, and really had to pull herself up by her bootstraps to pay her way through school and become the successful young woman she is. This is great character development, and explains a lot about her reasoning for many decisions throughout the novel. However, she brings it up constantly. I lost count, but she would discuss it with nearly everyone she interviewed. This was unrealistic. We as the readers understand her history and why she is is behaving the way she is, it doesn't need to be spelled out. There were two or three situations where her bringing it up could have been beneficial to the plot, but not nearly as many times as it did happen.
I did really appreciate the author's character building. Overall I thought Stone created realistic characters with depth. Even the misogynist was really well written. She got into his head and revealed his thinking to the audience. I liked Autumn despite her "mind reading" ability. I think she would have been just as strong a character without this ability.
Overall, an entertaining read. I may give more books in the series a try, but I wouldn't be heartbroken if I didn't.
April 15, 2025
Justin's character seems connected to Autumn's series, and I felt the book could have fit well within Winter's series with more emphasis on Autumn's life.
Initially, Autumn seemed like a strong, intelligent, savvy, edgy character with an intriguing paranormal ability. Now, her character appears to have been diluted, possibly to better relate to foster children, though I could not be sure about that..
(I do wish that there would be some further explanation about the possibilities of these abilities occurring in a certain percent of the population after a TBI occurs.)
This particular book focused on the horrendous foster care system, dysfunctional families, how easy it was (is) for foster children to fall through the cracks, and Winter unraveling because of her brother. The serial killer was pretty obvious, as were the motivations behind the killings. Two situations were obvious from the very beginning.
The initial chapters were suspenseful, though the suspense leveled off as the story moved forward. While the book appears to be a stand-alone, my opinion may be biased as I have been invested since Winter Black's beginning.
The narration was good, but I'm unsure about continuing the series. The story seems prolonged, and I might take a break.
Initially, Autumn seemed like a strong, intelligent, savvy, edgy character with an intriguing paranormal ability. Now, her character appears to have been diluted, possibly to better relate to foster children, though I could not be sure about that..
(I do wish that there would be some further explanation about the possibilities of these abilities occurring in a certain percent of the population after a TBI occurs.)
This particular book focused on the horrendous foster care system, dysfunctional families, how easy it was (is) for foster children to fall through the cracks, and Winter unraveling because of her brother. The serial killer was pretty obvious, as were the motivations behind the killings. Two situations were obvious from the very beginning.
The initial chapters were suspenseful, though the suspense leveled off as the story moved forward. While the book appears to be a stand-alone, my opinion may be biased as I have been invested since Winter Black's beginning.
The narration was good, but I'm unsure about continuing the series. The story seems prolonged, and I might take a break.
February 8, 2024
Having read all the Winter Black series, I was interested to read the new spin-off featuring Autumn Trent.
Apparently my expectations were too high.
With the serial killer from the Winter Black series finally apprehended and the series finished, you would think that would be the last of him. Alas, it wasn't to be. Unfortunately, he has continued into the Autumn Trent storyline.
Also with Autumn and Winter being best friends, it would definitely be a conflict of interest for Autumn to interview/evaluate him. Any real-life professional would not have done it.
As for Autumn's villain . . . well, he didn't fall far from the Winter Black serial killer tree. It was like cut and paste time where he was concerned. The same kind of disdain for women, the "mission from God," his "purpose," etc. blah, blah, blah -- nothing new. That I listened to the audiobook version that featured the same reader as the Winter Black books, it was the same voice and cadence which only reinforced that. There was no difference between the two killers.
Not an auspicious start to a new series.
Apparently my expectations were too high.
With the serial killer from the Winter Black series finally apprehended and the series finished, you would think that would be the last of him. Alas, it wasn't to be. Unfortunately, he has continued into the Autumn Trent storyline.
Also with Autumn and Winter being best friends, it would definitely be a conflict of interest for Autumn to interview/evaluate him. Any real-life professional would not have done it.
As for Autumn's villain . . . well, he didn't fall far from the Winter Black serial killer tree. It was like cut and paste time where he was concerned. The same kind of disdain for women, the "mission from God," his "purpose," etc. blah, blah, blah -- nothing new. That I listened to the audiobook version that featured the same reader as the Winter Black books, it was the same voice and cadence which only reinforced that. There was no difference between the two killers.
Not an auspicious start to a new series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 29, 2020
What an exciting new series! Murder. Best Friends who go to the wall for you. Plus, there are psychic abilities? Mary Stone has created a winner with the introduction Autumn’s Game and the “Autumn Trent Series”.
I will state there might be some triggers for some readers as there is detailed child abuse and neglect. There is a lot of sexual harassment by a male.
I did guess who the killer is the first time we meet them. They are pretty standard when it comes to the stereotypical killer. This does not take away from the storyline as it is the secondary characters that bring all of the surprises. Stone creates a very interesting cast.
I think my favorite part of the book is the friendship between Autumn, Winter, and Noah. Autumn and Winter make a kick butt team, but it is their inner core of friendship that I love the most.
I cannot wait to see where Stone takes Autumn and us next.
I received an ARC of this book and I am writing a review without prejudice and voluntarily.
I will state there might be some triggers for some readers as there is detailed child abuse and neglect. There is a lot of sexual harassment by a male.
I did guess who the killer is the first time we meet them. They are pretty standard when it comes to the stereotypical killer. This does not take away from the storyline as it is the secondary characters that bring all of the surprises. Stone creates a very interesting cast.
I think my favorite part of the book is the friendship between Autumn, Winter, and Noah. Autumn and Winter make a kick butt team, but it is their inner core of friendship that I love the most.
I cannot wait to see where Stone takes Autumn and us next.
I received an ARC of this book and I am writing a review without prejudice and voluntarily.
December 6, 2022
I really enjoyed this book! The author did a fantastic job of crafting the mystery and allowing the reader to follow the clues along with the heroine. I thoroughly enjoyed the main character - a strong female lead. We got to ride the rollercoaster with her, both in terms of objective experience in trying to solve the mystery, as well as giving us witness to her innermost thoughts during intense conflicts. There were times when I found myself feeling the anger or frustration along with the heroine, and it kept me glued to my Kindle so as not to be left hanging.
The only reason I didn't give this 5 stars was because there were a few scenes involving a secondary character's incarcerated brother that didn't add anything to the plot or character development, and actually took me out of the story. As far as I was concerned, him being there had nothing to do with the mystery to be solved, so was unnecessary. Editing those parts out would have kept the story flowing instead of feeling like an occasional road bump. But aside from that, LOVED IT.
The only reason I didn't give this 5 stars was because there were a few scenes involving a secondary character's incarcerated brother that didn't add anything to the plot or character development, and actually took me out of the story. As far as I was concerned, him being there had nothing to do with the mystery to be solved, so was unnecessary. Editing those parts out would have kept the story flowing instead of feeling like an occasional road bump. But aside from that, LOVED IT.
January 19, 2022
This was a decent book. That was pretty much it. The pacing was fine and it was very easy to read. The plot was not complicated at all. The serial killer's identity was way too obvious. I thought it would be too obvious for the author to make that character the killer, but she did.
I also didn't like how the heroine was practically Bruce Willis from Unbreakable. The way it sounded at the start of the book, her ability was a gift and a curse. Well, it didn't seem like a curse during the events of the book. Also, it seems like the 2 main characters from the 2 connected series are the only ones with paranormal abilities. So that puts these books in a place where they have paranormal themes but they don't really commit to it which I don't like.
Overall, I doubt I will be continuing this series, but it was an easy read and has a decent storyline.
I also didn't like how the heroine was practically Bruce Willis from Unbreakable. The way it sounded at the start of the book, her ability was a gift and a curse. Well, it didn't seem like a curse during the events of the book. Also, it seems like the 2 main characters from the 2 connected series are the only ones with paranormal abilities. So that puts these books in a place where they have paranormal themes but they don't really commit to it which I don't like.
Overall, I doubt I will be continuing this series, but it was an easy read and has a decent storyline.
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