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Detective Clara Jefferies #2
Her Final Prayer
Her pulse pounded in her ears as she scanned the house. Her eyes traveled over the porch where three empty chairs lazily rocked in the breeze, surrounded by scattered children’s toys. In the yard, there were mounds of earth. Graves. Only big enough for children…
When Detective Clara Jefferies is called to a family ranch just outside of Alber, Utah, she’s horrified to find two innocent young children murdered alongside their mothers. But she arrives at the scene quickly enough to rush their father, Jacob Johansson, to hospital where he begins fighting for his life, and to save his two-month-old son Jeremy, left untouched in his crib.
As Clara begins to investigate, nothing she finds out makes sense. Though she uncovers photos of one of Jacob’s wives in his best friend’s trailer, her flower necklace underneath his bed, there are rumors that she was in love with a different man altogether. And as the close-knit community comes together to support Jacob, Clara’s own family shut her out of the investigation…
But Clara won’t give up. With the killer still at large, baby Jeremy is at risk, and every moment her family are helping Jacob they are also in danger. To earn her family’s trust, Clara finally has to face the past, but can she do it before it’s too late?
When Detective Clara Jefferies is called to a family ranch just outside of Alber, Utah, she’s horrified to find two innocent young children murdered alongside their mothers. But she arrives at the scene quickly enough to rush their father, Jacob Johansson, to hospital where he begins fighting for his life, and to save his two-month-old son Jeremy, left untouched in his crib.
As Clara begins to investigate, nothing she finds out makes sense. Though she uncovers photos of one of Jacob’s wives in his best friend’s trailer, her flower necklace underneath his bed, there are rumors that she was in love with a different man altogether. And as the close-knit community comes together to support Jacob, Clara’s own family shut her out of the investigation…
But Clara won’t give up. With the killer still at large, baby Jeremy is at risk, and every moment her family are helping Jacob they are also in danger. To earn her family’s trust, Clara finally has to face the past, but can she do it before it’s too late?
296 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 2, 2020
762 people are currently reading
583 people want to read
About the author
Kathryn Casey
33 books642 followersAn award-winning journalist and a critically acclaimed bestselling author, Kathryn Casey has written eleven true crime books and is the creator of the Sarah Armstrong and Clara Jefferies mystery series. ANGEL FALLS, her first historical fiction, was inspired by the life of Ruth Robertson, who in 1949 measured the world’s tallest waterfall.
Casey’s books have been Literary and Mystery Guild selections, and DEADLY LITTLE SECRETS was made into a Lifetime movie. Her first novel, SINGULARITY, was named a Best Crime Novel Debut by Booklist, and Library Journal chose THE KILLING STORM for its annual list of Best Mysteries. Elle Magazine picked DIE, MY LOVE as one of the ten best thrillers and crime books written by a woman. True crime matriarch Ann Rule praised Casey as "one of the best," and #1 NY Times bestselling author Gregg Olsen has called Casey "a true crime great."
In addition, Casey has written more than a hundred national magazine articles and pieces for The Washington Post, the Boston Globe, and the Houston Chronicle. In 2022, Casey was featured on the top ten Netflix limited documentary series “Crime Scene: The Texas Killing Fields.” She’s appeared on dozens of television and radio programs, including The Today Show, Good Morning America, 20/20, 48 Hours, Oprah, Investigation Discovery, the Travel Channel, A&E, and other venues.
Casey’s books have been Literary and Mystery Guild selections, and DEADLY LITTLE SECRETS was made into a Lifetime movie. Her first novel, SINGULARITY, was named a Best Crime Novel Debut by Booklist, and Library Journal chose THE KILLING STORM for its annual list of Best Mysteries. Elle Magazine picked DIE, MY LOVE as one of the ten best thrillers and crime books written by a woman. True crime matriarch Ann Rule praised Casey as "one of the best," and #1 NY Times bestselling author Gregg Olsen has called Casey "a true crime great."
In addition, Casey has written more than a hundred national magazine articles and pieces for The Washington Post, the Boston Globe, and the Houston Chronicle. In 2022, Casey was featured on the top ten Netflix limited documentary series “Crime Scene: The Texas Killing Fields.” She’s appeared on dozens of television and radio programs, including The Today Show, Good Morning America, 20/20, 48 Hours, Oprah, Investigation Discovery, the Travel Channel, A&E, and other venues.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews
October 7, 2020
Favorite Quotes:
I thought of those I knew who used religion to control the lives of others and the unfairness of a world where so many have no power and no voice.
On the day my parents delivered me to him I was seventeen, and my husband was sixty-four. He could have been my grandfather.
My Review:
The first book in the series, The Fallen Girls, left a mark on my memory and I have been curious ever since to know more of Clara’s history. The storylines were tense and prickly, much like the main protagonist, as well as a bit gruesome and cast with adult characters I wanted to take a sharp switch to while hissing like a serpent. I know there are weird secular cults in every culture and that they are basically everywhere, but these extreme religious sects that are basically abusing children and women with the women’s consent are just horrific and inexcusable. The mystery wasn’t as unpredictable as the first installment but it was still twisted and disconcerting and kept me on edge.
I thought of those I knew who used religion to control the lives of others and the unfairness of a world where so many have no power and no voice.
On the day my parents delivered me to him I was seventeen, and my husband was sixty-four. He could have been my grandfather.
My Review:
The first book in the series, The Fallen Girls, left a mark on my memory and I have been curious ever since to know more of Clara’s history. The storylines were tense and prickly, much like the main protagonist, as well as a bit gruesome and cast with adult characters I wanted to take a sharp switch to while hissing like a serpent. I know there are weird secular cults in every culture and that they are basically everywhere, but these extreme religious sects that are basically abusing children and women with the women’s consent are just horrific and inexcusable. The mystery wasn’t as unpredictable as the first installment but it was still twisted and disconcerting and kept me on edge.
October 7, 2020
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I am happy to report that Her Final Prayer by Kathryn Casey is another intriguing and twisty addition to the Detective Clara Jefferies series! This may only be book 2 but I already feel like I'm getting to know the (fictional) town of Alber, Clara, and Max a whole lot better. There was a little more of Clara's backstory mixed in with the grisly murder mystery, and I already feel a connection with them that I hope never ends. There are definitely some disturbing and chilling parts but nothing too gory so people who are only slightly squeamish should be ok with this book/series.
I really enjoyed the crime aspect to the novel and thought it was unpredictable and frankly, hard to put down. I really like Casey's books because they are paced so well and such quick reads, and that was definitely the case with Her Final Prayer. The Mormon community is so fascinating to me to read about, and it's really brought alive in this novel. Tensions run high and it made the suspense feel even higher as well. I had no idea where it was going to go and was surprised by ending plus impressed with Detective Jefferies. She's such a smart, strong female character and I love reading from her viewpoint. There is also some of Max's POV mixed in which I always appreciated, but Clara is my favorite overall.
If you are looking for a new crime series to grab, I highly recommend checking this one out. The books don't have to be read in order, but I think that would be helpful unless you want to miss some of Clara's backstory. I had a hard time remembering what happened in book 1 so I felt like I was missing some things there, which is why I recommend binging them in order! This series is perfect if you are looking for something quick and twisty, and I can't wait to see what happens next in Alber.
Thank you to the publisher for my advance review copy via NetGalley. All opinions and thoughts are my own
I am happy to report that Her Final Prayer by Kathryn Casey is another intriguing and twisty addition to the Detective Clara Jefferies series! This may only be book 2 but I already feel like I'm getting to know the (fictional) town of Alber, Clara, and Max a whole lot better. There was a little more of Clara's backstory mixed in with the grisly murder mystery, and I already feel a connection with them that I hope never ends. There are definitely some disturbing and chilling parts but nothing too gory so people who are only slightly squeamish should be ok with this book/series.
I really enjoyed the crime aspect to the novel and thought it was unpredictable and frankly, hard to put down. I really like Casey's books because they are paced so well and such quick reads, and that was definitely the case with Her Final Prayer. The Mormon community is so fascinating to me to read about, and it's really brought alive in this novel. Tensions run high and it made the suspense feel even higher as well. I had no idea where it was going to go and was surprised by ending plus impressed with Detective Jefferies. She's such a smart, strong female character and I love reading from her viewpoint. There is also some of Max's POV mixed in which I always appreciated, but Clara is my favorite overall.
If you are looking for a new crime series to grab, I highly recommend checking this one out. The books don't have to be read in order, but I think that would be helpful unless you want to miss some of Clara's backstory. I had a hard time remembering what happened in book 1 so I felt like I was missing some things there, which is why I recommend binging them in order! This series is perfect if you are looking for something quick and twisty, and I can't wait to see what happens next in Alber.
Thank you to the publisher for my advance review copy via NetGalley. All opinions and thoughts are my own
October 8, 2020
A tense and clever police procedural. This is the second book in the detective Clara Jeffries series. In the previous book Clara is summoned to her isolated Utah hometown to help investigate the disappearance of one of her sisters. In this book Clara has decided to stay in the fictional town of Alber where she is now the acting police chief. When there is a gruesome murder of a family on the outskirts of town Clara is on the case. But it’s even more complicated than solving a murder. The town is not excited to have Clara back, they have shunned her for leaving years ago.
This isolated backwards polygamist small town offers the perfect backdrop to this police procedural. The religious beliefs of this fringe polygamist sect creates an abundance of tension. Clara’s familiarity with the community is both helpful and harmful in the search for answers. Clara is a great character and I really like learning more about her backstory. But boy oh boy does the girl have so much more baggage to unpack. I also really enjoyed the relationship between Max and Clara. Max is such a good guy and I really hope that Clara and he can help one another heal their wounds. The mystery was perfectly paste and compelling. I truly had no idea who done it until the culprit was revealed. Another great installment in this chrime series.
*** Big thank you to Bookouture for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
This isolated backwards polygamist small town offers the perfect backdrop to this police procedural. The religious beliefs of this fringe polygamist sect creates an abundance of tension. Clara’s familiarity with the community is both helpful and harmful in the search for answers. Clara is a great character and I really like learning more about her backstory. But boy oh boy does the girl have so much more baggage to unpack. I also really enjoyed the relationship between Max and Clara. Max is such a good guy and I really hope that Clara and he can help one another heal their wounds. The mystery was perfectly paste and compelling. I truly had no idea who done it until the culprit was revealed. Another great installment in this chrime series.
*** Big thank you to Bookouture for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
October 2, 2020
Her Final Prayer is the second instalment in the Detective Clara Jefferies series, set in Alber, Utah. Although certainly preferable it isn't essential to have read the first book before taking the plunge with this one. Clara has recently been promoted to Chief of Police for the small town of Alber and is called in to investigate a bloody and brutal murder scene on a farm on the outskirts. The area is known for being the place in which many adherents to the polygamous Mormon sect reside. Clara used to be one of the followers of the religion but had decided to leave and was now shunned by the rest of the population. So when she attends to find a family massacred in their own home she is very much given the cold shoulder despite her love for the people she knows so well playing a large part in her desire to serve and protect the locals; Jacob Johanssen is discovered bleeding out on his kitchen floor barely clinging to life, but unfortunately, his two wives and two children have not been so lucky and are all dead. A wailing baby boy, Jeremy, survives but it's going to be touch and go for his father who has had his throat slashed from ear to ear and was rushed to ICU. Despite being an apostate, Clara is stubbornly determined to get justice for the townsfolk.
Now Clara knows it's a race against time before the brazen, heartless killer strikes again but she's finding it increasingly difficult to investigate and interview the members of the sect as they not only don't want her there but they refuse to talk to her too. This is a captivating and compulsive read, which I enjoyed immensely, and I can honestly say that the religious tensions made a refreshing change for this genre and made it all the more engrossing. It's an original, fast-paced and compelling novel which is easy to race through, and I found the plotting superb. Mystery, secrets and lies abound and many in the Mormon community find it impossible to believe any one of them could have carried out such a heinous crime. The plot is twist-laden, the characters engaging and the exploration of forced marriage and the entrenched misogyny in their belief system fascinating and I found the cutting off of former community members saddening but it added a unique aspect to the plot. A real must-read which kept me up into the early hours. Highly recommended. Many thanks to Bookouture for an ARC.
Now Clara knows it's a race against time before the brazen, heartless killer strikes again but she's finding it increasingly difficult to investigate and interview the members of the sect as they not only don't want her there but they refuse to talk to her too. This is a captivating and compulsive read, which I enjoyed immensely, and I can honestly say that the religious tensions made a refreshing change for this genre and made it all the more engrossing. It's an original, fast-paced and compelling novel which is easy to race through, and I found the plotting superb. Mystery, secrets and lies abound and many in the Mormon community find it impossible to believe any one of them could have carried out such a heinous crime. The plot is twist-laden, the characters engaging and the exploration of forced marriage and the entrenched misogyny in their belief system fascinating and I found the cutting off of former community members saddening but it added a unique aspect to the plot. A real must-read which kept me up into the early hours. Highly recommended. Many thanks to Bookouture for an ARC.
October 2, 2020
This is the 2nd book to this series and I did read the first one and enjoyed it. This book was as good and can't wait for another one.
When Detective Clara Jefferies is called to a family ranch just outside of Alber, Utah, she’s horrified to find two innocent young children murdered alongside their mothers. But she arrives at the scene quickly enough to rush their father, Jacob Johansson, to hospital where he begins fighting for his life, and to save his two-month-old son Jeremy, left untouched in his crib. This is a community with men married to several women and having many kids. Claire was brought up that way but ran away when she was an older teen and married off to someone she didn't want to be married to. So she came back to town in the last book and this one takes off with the community still shunning her while she is trying to investigate and she is getting letters sent to her office to leave town. Her partner is also she was in love with as a teenager and he wants a relationship with her again.
Thank you to bookuture and NetGalley for the ARC to review.
When Detective Clara Jefferies is called to a family ranch just outside of Alber, Utah, she’s horrified to find two innocent young children murdered alongside their mothers. But she arrives at the scene quickly enough to rush their father, Jacob Johansson, to hospital where he begins fighting for his life, and to save his two-month-old son Jeremy, left untouched in his crib. This is a community with men married to several women and having many kids. Claire was brought up that way but ran away when she was an older teen and married off to someone she didn't want to be married to. So she came back to town in the last book and this one takes off with the community still shunning her while she is trying to investigate and she is getting letters sent to her office to leave town. Her partner is also she was in love with as a teenager and he wants a relationship with her again.
Thank you to bookuture and NetGalley for the ARC to review.
September 17, 2020
When Detective Clara Jefferies is called to a family ranch just outside of Alber, Utah, she’s horrified to find two innocent young children murdered alongside their mothers. But she arrives at the scene quickly enough to rush their father, Jacob Johansson, to hospital where he begins fighting for his life, and to save his two-month-old son Jeremy, left untouched in his crib.
As Clara begins to investigate, nothing she finds out makes sense. And as the close-knit community comes together to support Jacob, Clara’s own family shut her out of the investigation.
This is the second book in the Detective Clara Jefferies series and it’s as good as the first one! This book begins with a dark and gruesome incident, that itself manages to grab my attention right from the beginning.
Detective Clara Jefferies is simply amazing. Even though she faces protests, lack of cooperation and is constantly termed as an outsider, she carries on her investigation with full determination to get justice for the victims. Her need to get all the answers and not to rest until she does, is what makes this book even more enjoyable to read.
Even though I had a feeling of who might be the killer quite early on, the way the entire investigation was conducted as well as the twists and turns in the plot right till the end were good.
Thank You to NetGalley and Bookouture for this ARC!
As Clara begins to investigate, nothing she finds out makes sense. And as the close-knit community comes together to support Jacob, Clara’s own family shut her out of the investigation.
This is the second book in the Detective Clara Jefferies series and it’s as good as the first one! This book begins with a dark and gruesome incident, that itself manages to grab my attention right from the beginning.
Detective Clara Jefferies is simply amazing. Even though she faces protests, lack of cooperation and is constantly termed as an outsider, she carries on her investigation with full determination to get justice for the victims. Her need to get all the answers and not to rest until she does, is what makes this book even more enjoyable to read.
Even though I had a feeling of who might be the killer quite early on, the way the entire investigation was conducted as well as the twists and turns in the plot right till the end were good.
Thank You to NetGalley and Bookouture for this ARC!
October 1, 2020
This is a great crime thriller.
Detective Clara Jefferies is called to a horrific crime scene where a family has been killed except for the father and baby boy.
One of her mothers discovers the bodies and soon Clara and Max are there to try and find out what happened.
I’d forgotten about the communities in this series as they have multiple wives and therefore multiple mothers which I’ve never quite got my head around.
Two mothers were killed in the incident but who wanted them dead?
I didn’t guess who the killer was and I enjoyed trying to work it out.
Clara and Max are getting closer but they’ve both got to leave their parts behind to move forward.
This is another great crime thriller.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
Detective Clara Jefferies is called to a horrific crime scene where a family has been killed except for the father and baby boy.
One of her mothers discovers the bodies and soon Clara and Max are there to try and find out what happened.
I’d forgotten about the communities in this series as they have multiple wives and therefore multiple mothers which I’ve never quite got my head around.
Two mothers were killed in the incident but who wanted them dead?
I didn’t guess who the killer was and I enjoyed trying to work it out.
Clara and Max are getting closer but they’ve both got to leave their parts behind to move forward.
This is another great crime thriller.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
October 18, 2020
A killer had struck a family killing the kids and mothers with father barely alive. Only a 2 year old was left untouched. Detective Clara Jefferies was called to the horrifying scene. With the close knit Mormon community, Clara had a real struggle to find her answers.
Book 2 of the series, though I didn’t remember anything of book 1 so it felt like a new murder mystery. With a begging like that, there was an urgency in the entire book to find the killer. I loved that the author had interspersed the prose with clues which didn’t go well with each other. Carla really had to work hard to find her leads.
Her determination was the beacon that led the investigation when she was face to face with stubbornness and people unwilling to cooperate. She had a real trying time. But got to get killer, she did, even with the many twists and turns.
Quite a fun investigative tale where secrets were mixed with lies and it was all up to Clara to untangle them.
Book 2 of the series, though I didn’t remember anything of book 1 so it felt like a new murder mystery. With a begging like that, there was an urgency in the entire book to find the killer. I loved that the author had interspersed the prose with clues which didn’t go well with each other. Carla really had to work hard to find her leads.
Her determination was the beacon that led the investigation when she was face to face with stubbornness and people unwilling to cooperate. She had a real trying time. But got to get killer, she did, even with the many twists and turns.
Quite a fun investigative tale where secrets were mixed with lies and it was all up to Clara to untangle them.
October 3, 2020
Book Description:
Her pulse pounded in her ears as she scanned the house. Her eyes traveled over the porch where three empty chairs lazily rocked in the breeze, surrounded by scattered children’s toys. In the yard, there were mounds of earth. Graves. Only big enough for children…
When Detective Clara Jefferies is called to a family ranch just outside of Alber, Utah, she’s horrified to find two innocent young children murdered alongside their mothers. But she arrives at the scene quickly enough to rush their father, Jacob Johansson, to hospital where he begins fighting for his life, and to save his two-month-old son Jeremy, left untouched in his crib.
As Clara begins to investigate, nothing she finds out makes sense. Though she uncovers photos of one of Jacob’s wives in his best friend’s trailer, her flower necklace underneath his bed, there are rumors that she was in love with a different man altogether. And as the close-knit community comes together to support Jacob, Clara’s own family shut her out of the investigation…
But Clara won’t give up. With the killer still at large, baby Jeremy is at risk, and every moment her family are helping Jacob they are also in danger. To earn her family’s trust, Clara finally has to face the past, but can she do it before it’s too late?
Impossible to put down, Her Final Prayer is perfect for readers of Lisa Regan, Melinda Leigh and Kendra Elliot. You’ll race through the pages until the final heart-pounding twist.
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'Her Final Prayer' by Kathryn Casey.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 3rd October 2020
This is the first book that I have read by this author. It is the second book in the 'Detective Clara Jefferies' series. Although this book is second in a series it can be read as a standalone, as I did quite easily.
I was originally drawn to this book by its intriguing and beautiful cover and interesting sounding blurb. I was also drawn to the fact that the blurb stated it was perfect for fans of Melinda Leigh and Kendra Elliot. I am a big fan of both so it will be very interesting to see if it lives up to this. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of 40 chapters. The chapters are short to medium in length so ideal to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is mainly written in first person perspective with the protagonist being Detective Clara Jefferies. I enjoy books written in first person perspective as as long as they are well written it makes you feel that you are being spoken to by the protagonist and it can create more of a bond between yourselves and them. There are also chapters written from Max's perspective in third person narrative. I really enjoyed that the books was mixed first and third party narrative as it gave the best of both worlds, feeling as though your being spoken directly to whole having the overview from another characters perspective. It helps paint a bigger picture.
This book is based in Utah, US 🇺🇸.
This book is very well written and sucked me straight into the storyline. It had great descriptions which helped me picture everything easily. I enjoyed that the perspective of Clara was written from first person perspective and Max as third person. I haven't seen this done in anither book yet and I think it was done extremely well with no mix ups and giving the reader a much larger insight of what was going on from different perspectives. I thought it was very helpful that some of the descriptions of medical terms were explained in layman terms as it helps readers understand what they mean if they don't understand.
I really enjoyed the characters and lied their strong personalities. I loved that Clara speaks about victims as people using their names and visualises alot which helps to set the scenes. I also love the fact that there is a strong female lead, being female myself this is always a bonus!! I also liked Max and how he supported Clara and I look forward to seeing more of how their relationship develops.
The storyline was action packed and filled with mysteries and twists and turns. It kept me up until late turning the pages. Just when I thought I could put it down for the night BOOM another surprise was just around the corner!! I didn't guess who the killer was so definitely bonus points there!! I read alot of crime books so I'm finding it harder to be surprised but I did not expect that one coming.i also found that the storyline about Elijah's people was quite interesting and I was glad it explains some of their "rules" per say.
I would love to see this turned into a movie and am looking forward to reading the next book in this explosive series.
Overall a fast paced psychological crime thriller that will keep you up late at night guessing and turning the pages.
Genres covered include Romance, Mystery, Thriller, Suspense, Psychological Thriller, Police Procedural and Crime Fiction.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of Angela Marsons, Melinda Leigh, C. L Taylor and Kendra Elliot.
336 pages.
This book is £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5/5 (I loved it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
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Author Bio:
A novelist and award-winning journalist, Kathryn Casey is the author of eleven highly acclaimed true crime books and the creator of the Sarah Armstrong mystery series. Library Journal picked THE KILLING STORM as one of the best mysteries of 2010. Her latest true crime, IN PLAIN SIGHT, investigates the Kaufman County prosecutor murders, a case that made worldwide headlines. Casey has appeared on Oprah, 20/20, the Today Show, Good Morning America, the Biography Channel, Reelz, The Travel Network, Investigation Discovery, and many other venues. Ann Rule called Casey “one of the best in the true crime genre.”
http://www.kathryncasey.com/
Twitter: @KathrynCasey
Buy Links:
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Her pulse pounded in her ears as she scanned the house. Her eyes traveled over the porch where three empty chairs lazily rocked in the breeze, surrounded by scattered children’s toys. In the yard, there were mounds of earth. Graves. Only big enough for children…
When Detective Clara Jefferies is called to a family ranch just outside of Alber, Utah, she’s horrified to find two innocent young children murdered alongside their mothers. But she arrives at the scene quickly enough to rush their father, Jacob Johansson, to hospital where he begins fighting for his life, and to save his two-month-old son Jeremy, left untouched in his crib.
As Clara begins to investigate, nothing she finds out makes sense. Though she uncovers photos of one of Jacob’s wives in his best friend’s trailer, her flower necklace underneath his bed, there are rumors that she was in love with a different man altogether. And as the close-knit community comes together to support Jacob, Clara’s own family shut her out of the investigation…
But Clara won’t give up. With the killer still at large, baby Jeremy is at risk, and every moment her family are helping Jacob they are also in danger. To earn her family’s trust, Clara finally has to face the past, but can she do it before it’s too late?
Impossible to put down, Her Final Prayer is perfect for readers of Lisa Regan, Melinda Leigh and Kendra Elliot. You’ll race through the pages until the final heart-pounding twist.
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'Her Final Prayer' by Kathryn Casey.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 3rd October 2020
This is the first book that I have read by this author. It is the second book in the 'Detective Clara Jefferies' series. Although this book is second in a series it can be read as a standalone, as I did quite easily.
I was originally drawn to this book by its intriguing and beautiful cover and interesting sounding blurb. I was also drawn to the fact that the blurb stated it was perfect for fans of Melinda Leigh and Kendra Elliot. I am a big fan of both so it will be very interesting to see if it lives up to this. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of 40 chapters. The chapters are short to medium in length so ideal to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is mainly written in first person perspective with the protagonist being Detective Clara Jefferies. I enjoy books written in first person perspective as as long as they are well written it makes you feel that you are being spoken to by the protagonist and it can create more of a bond between yourselves and them. There are also chapters written from Max's perspective in third person narrative. I really enjoyed that the books was mixed first and third party narrative as it gave the best of both worlds, feeling as though your being spoken directly to whole having the overview from another characters perspective. It helps paint a bigger picture.
This book is based in Utah, US 🇺🇸.
This book is very well written and sucked me straight into the storyline. It had great descriptions which helped me picture everything easily. I enjoyed that the perspective of Clara was written from first person perspective and Max as third person. I haven't seen this done in anither book yet and I think it was done extremely well with no mix ups and giving the reader a much larger insight of what was going on from different perspectives. I thought it was very helpful that some of the descriptions of medical terms were explained in layman terms as it helps readers understand what they mean if they don't understand.
I really enjoyed the characters and lied their strong personalities. I loved that Clara speaks about victims as people using their names and visualises alot which helps to set the scenes. I also love the fact that there is a strong female lead, being female myself this is always a bonus!! I also liked Max and how he supported Clara and I look forward to seeing more of how their relationship develops.
The storyline was action packed and filled with mysteries and twists and turns. It kept me up until late turning the pages. Just when I thought I could put it down for the night BOOM another surprise was just around the corner!! I didn't guess who the killer was so definitely bonus points there!! I read alot of crime books so I'm finding it harder to be surprised but I did not expect that one coming.i also found that the storyline about Elijah's people was quite interesting and I was glad it explains some of their "rules" per say.
I would love to see this turned into a movie and am looking forward to reading the next book in this explosive series.
Overall a fast paced psychological crime thriller that will keep you up late at night guessing and turning the pages.
Genres covered include Romance, Mystery, Thriller, Suspense, Psychological Thriller, Police Procedural and Crime Fiction.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of Angela Marsons, Melinda Leigh, C. L Taylor and Kendra Elliot.
336 pages.
This book is £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5/5 (I loved it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
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Author Bio:
A novelist and award-winning journalist, Kathryn Casey is the author of eleven highly acclaimed true crime books and the creator of the Sarah Armstrong mystery series. Library Journal picked THE KILLING STORM as one of the best mysteries of 2010. Her latest true crime, IN PLAIN SIGHT, investigates the Kaufman County prosecutor murders, a case that made worldwide headlines. Casey has appeared on Oprah, 20/20, the Today Show, Good Morning America, the Biography Channel, Reelz, The Travel Network, Investigation Discovery, and many other venues. Ann Rule called Casey “one of the best in the true crime genre.”
http://www.kathryncasey.com/
Twitter: @KathrynCasey
Buy Links:
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November 5, 2020
It's hard to beat a first in a series that's so incredibly well-written but Casey has proven she can do it with this fantastic novel that follows Clara's move back to her small hometown as she investigates another case involving a polygamous family who've all been slaughtered. The procedure is always spot on and the characterisation, plot etc. excellently evocative. I loved this book and look forward to Book 3 as this is becoming one of my favourite US series'.
April 30, 2021
4.5 stars Review this week
October 26, 2020
I really enjoyed this book- it was a fast-paced and twisty mystery. It's the 2nd book in a series but can be read as a standalone (though I imagine you'd get more background about Clara's journey in book one, which I had not read). The story centers on Clara, who returns from Texas to her hometown in Utah to take on the Chief of Police role. The town is extremely religious and polygamous and is not welcoming to Clara, as she fled rather than marrying the man that she was set up to marry. The crime that Clara has to solve is around 2 wives and 2 children of a local man who were brutally murdered.
I'll get it out there immediately and say that I thought I would be distracted by, or at least unhappy with, the unfamiliar religious backdrop, but I wasn't at all. The book didn't preach and described religion only in the context of explanation, or understanding Clara's thoughts. If you are worried about that as well, you'll be pleasantly surprised.
The author did a great job in dropping bread crumbs to help the reader figure out who the villain was, and also threw in many believable red herrings. I went back and forth many times as to who I thought had committed the murders. When all was said and done, the loose ends were tied up nicely and I wasn't left with any lingering questions.
Clara herself is a likeable character, though certainly has some demons. She felt very real to me.
Overall, I'd recommend this book to those who like mysteries and thrillers- I read this book in a day because I couldn't wait to find out what happened. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I'll get it out there immediately and say that I thought I would be distracted by, or at least unhappy with, the unfamiliar religious backdrop, but I wasn't at all. The book didn't preach and described religion only in the context of explanation, or understanding Clara's thoughts. If you are worried about that as well, you'll be pleasantly surprised.
The author did a great job in dropping bread crumbs to help the reader figure out who the villain was, and also threw in many believable red herrings. I went back and forth many times as to who I thought had committed the murders. When all was said and done, the loose ends were tied up nicely and I wasn't left with any lingering questions.
Clara herself is a likeable character, though certainly has some demons. She felt very real to me.
Overall, I'd recommend this book to those who like mysteries and thrillers- I read this book in a day because I couldn't wait to find out what happened. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 23, 2020
"Life held such contradictions. People died, and the next morning others woke and started a new day...We still ached for revenge."
This is the second in a series featuring Detective Clara Jefferies, police chief in Alber, Utah, returned recently to her hometown from Dallas, Texas after 10 years. Clara grew up in Alber as a child belonging to a fundamentalist Mormon town that adhered to the principle of plural marriage. She was married off to an old man age at 17 and fled her home and is now shunned by Elijah's People because she disavowed all of their teachings. Including her own mothers and family. Now she's back there and still not accepted even as she tries to do her job for all of them.
In this case, a family massacre. Two mothers and two children murdered on their property and their husband, Jacob Johansson, lying on the kitchen floor near death with his throat slit. Upstairs a newborn baby remains the only one in the family unmolested. Who has committed this heinous crime and why. Clara and her former teenage boyfriend, Chief Deputy Max Anderson, examine the evidence, interrogate witnesses, and track down suspects to find the killer. NO SPOILERS.
I enjoyed this especially because of the setting and the interesting glimpse into an unusual religious society in modern day. I like the main character even though she's as messed up emotionally from her past as any female in this genre. I was hoping that the ending wouldn't be what it was because I had guessed it right away, so that was a bit of a disappointment. Hopefully the next book will put Clara in a better place with her personal relationships and I look forward to reading it.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for this e-book ARC to read and review.
This is the second in a series featuring Detective Clara Jefferies, police chief in Alber, Utah, returned recently to her hometown from Dallas, Texas after 10 years. Clara grew up in Alber as a child belonging to a fundamentalist Mormon town that adhered to the principle of plural marriage. She was married off to an old man age at 17 and fled her home and is now shunned by Elijah's People because she disavowed all of their teachings. Including her own mothers and family. Now she's back there and still not accepted even as she tries to do her job for all of them.
In this case, a family massacre. Two mothers and two children murdered on their property and their husband, Jacob Johansson, lying on the kitchen floor near death with his throat slit. Upstairs a newborn baby remains the only one in the family unmolested. Who has committed this heinous crime and why. Clara and her former teenage boyfriend, Chief Deputy Max Anderson, examine the evidence, interrogate witnesses, and track down suspects to find the killer. NO SPOILERS.
I enjoyed this especially because of the setting and the interesting glimpse into an unusual religious society in modern day. I like the main character even though she's as messed up emotionally from her past as any female in this genre. I was hoping that the ending wouldn't be what it was because I had guessed it right away, so that was a bit of a disappointment. Hopefully the next book will put Clara in a better place with her personal relationships and I look forward to reading it.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for this e-book ARC to read and review.
October 9, 2020
Clara Jefferies is such a nuanced character! She's strong, yet vulnerable; book-smart, yet intuitive. I hope Kathryn Casey is settling in for the long-term with this character. I could read about her exploits all day (and night--as I did in this case...)
October 2, 2020
On the one hand I wish I could say I was glad to be back in Alber, because it’s not a very friendly and welcoming village. On the other hand it’s the ideal background for a thriller and that makes me happy to be back. People are not keen on strangers even though Clara is not really a stranger. They don’t collaborate very well and that makes her life as chief of the police a lot harder.
It’s not easy when you have to find a killer, but it’s so much harder when people don’t want to open up and tell you everything they know. Clara would not be Clara if she would let herself be beaten by that behavior. No matter how hard she has to fight the people she has to interview, she does everything in her power to make sure the victims get what they deserve: justice.
Clara still struggles with her past and she has built a sky high wall around her heart. Little by little the wall is crumbling. Is she ready to let someone in again?
The author has shown she knows how to keep her readers captivated before and guess what… She does it again!
Some gruesome events are the base of this incredibly good book. 5 stars
Thank you, Kathryn Casey and Bookouture
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
It’s not easy when you have to find a killer, but it’s so much harder when people don’t want to open up and tell you everything they know. Clara would not be Clara if she would let herself be beaten by that behavior. No matter how hard she has to fight the people she has to interview, she does everything in her power to make sure the victims get what they deserve: justice.
Clara still struggles with her past and she has built a sky high wall around her heart. Little by little the wall is crumbling. Is she ready to let someone in again?
The author has shown she knows how to keep her readers captivated before and guess what… She does it again!
Some gruesome events are the base of this incredibly good book. 5 stars
Thank you, Kathryn Casey and Bookouture
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
October 5, 2020
This is the second book in the Clara Jefferies series and man what a ride! I had the hardest time figuring out whodunit!
This series is set in Alber, Utah which is a polygamy community that is teetering on the brink of collapsing since their “prophet” was arrested. We learn a bit of what happened with that in book one. Our main character Clara grew up in that community but ran away from some bad things and is now a detective from Dallas. In the first book she comes back to help solve a case involving her sister and now she is the police chief of Alber and tension is still pretty high with having her there as she is considered an “apostate” and to be shunned.
In this one it starts out with the discovery of four murder victims and one attempted murder as the man is still alive even though his throat was cut. Clare is called out to the scene along with Max who is the Chief deputy (if I remember that right) and what they find is horrible. One of Jacob’s wives and her two small children dead, then as they go inside they find Jacob still alive but verily and then his other wife upstairs has is also dead.
One of the wives is detective Mullin’s daughter and he is pretty sure he knows exactly who is the culprit and they pretty much have to try and contain him so they can get the guy and ask him questions. Though Mullins is sure it’s him they also find out some information about another guy. Laurel as in love with Myles before she was forced to marry Jacob and so Myles is also a suspect.
Not only does Clara have to deal with this horrific crime but there are a lot of people who don’t want her there as tensions rise with this murder there are a lot of protester out in from of the police station wanting her to go back home.
I thought this was a very well done mystery and I was stumped until I could come to no other conclusion than the one I did towards the end before Clara has it figured out. I like it when I get a bit stumped.
I also really like the main character Clara, she has a lot of baggage from her past to deal with and sometimes I am not really sure why she stayed there. I do know one of her main reason is because of Max who was her first love from when she lived there but he has a lot of baggage too.
I really liked this series and think it is fast becoming a new favorite and can’t wait to see what happens next. I am not a huge fan of the polygamy thing but it does make for an interesting backdrop. 🙂 I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys mystery/crime novels.
This series is set in Alber, Utah which is a polygamy community that is teetering on the brink of collapsing since their “prophet” was arrested. We learn a bit of what happened with that in book one. Our main character Clara grew up in that community but ran away from some bad things and is now a detective from Dallas. In the first book she comes back to help solve a case involving her sister and now she is the police chief of Alber and tension is still pretty high with having her there as she is considered an “apostate” and to be shunned.
In this one it starts out with the discovery of four murder victims and one attempted murder as the man is still alive even though his throat was cut. Clare is called out to the scene along with Max who is the Chief deputy (if I remember that right) and what they find is horrible. One of Jacob’s wives and her two small children dead, then as they go inside they find Jacob still alive but verily and then his other wife upstairs has is also dead.
One of the wives is detective Mullin’s daughter and he is pretty sure he knows exactly who is the culprit and they pretty much have to try and contain him so they can get the guy and ask him questions. Though Mullins is sure it’s him they also find out some information about another guy. Laurel as in love with Myles before she was forced to marry Jacob and so Myles is also a suspect.
Not only does Clara have to deal with this horrific crime but there are a lot of people who don’t want her there as tensions rise with this murder there are a lot of protester out in from of the police station wanting her to go back home.
I thought this was a very well done mystery and I was stumped until I could come to no other conclusion than the one I did towards the end before Clara has it figured out. I like it when I get a bit stumped.
I also really like the main character Clara, she has a lot of baggage from her past to deal with and sometimes I am not really sure why she stayed there. I do know one of her main reason is because of Max who was her first love from when she lived there but he has a lot of baggage too.
I really liked this series and think it is fast becoming a new favorite and can’t wait to see what happens next. I am not a huge fan of the polygamy thing but it does make for an interesting backdrop. 🙂 I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys mystery/crime novels.
October 5, 2020
Her Final Prayer by Kathryn Casey
Detective Clara Jeffries #2
Clara Jeffries went home a few months before this story begins to try and find her missing sister. As a homicide detective in Dallas she had the skills and tenacity to do the job but what she found was not pretty. At the end of the first book in the series some of Clara’s secrets had been revealed, we met a man from her past that meant a great deal to her, the polygamous religious sect she had once been a member of and the community they lived in was given a close look, and the foundation was put in place for the series that would follow. Whether or not she would stay in Alber, Utah was left up in the air. As book two begins we soon find out that Clara did stay, at least temporarily, as police chief for Alber. In book two of the series Clara and Max with the rest of the police and forensics team work to solve a heinous slaughter of innocents.
What I liked:
* Clara: strong, determined, intelligent, conflicted, dealing with her past, not sure how to move forward – I liked her.
* Max: strong, determined, loving, good father, Chief Deputy of Sheriff’s Department, a man possibly ready to move on, interested (still) in Clara – I hope he will win Clara over
* The police procedural aspects of the story
* Learning more about the small town and community of Alber
* Thinking about how community and religion form beliefs…and what it takes to move away from them
* That the story was different
* The writing, plot and story telling
* Information about Max and Clara as well as the sect that continues to be shared
* The police team
* The title…perfect for this book
* That it made me think…about the story, religion, my change in religious belief over time, etc
* I cared and was invested in the story
* That the killer was eventually caught
What I did not like:
* The loss of innocent life and the ripple effect it had on so many
* The bigotry
* Being reminded of the power religion/brain washing can have on people
* Knowing that sects/cults like this still exist
* Not having book three in my hand to read right now.
Did I enjoy this book? Yes
Would I read more in this series? Definitely
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
Detective Clara Jeffries #2
Clara Jeffries went home a few months before this story begins to try and find her missing sister. As a homicide detective in Dallas she had the skills and tenacity to do the job but what she found was not pretty. At the end of the first book in the series some of Clara’s secrets had been revealed, we met a man from her past that meant a great deal to her, the polygamous religious sect she had once been a member of and the community they lived in was given a close look, and the foundation was put in place for the series that would follow. Whether or not she would stay in Alber, Utah was left up in the air. As book two begins we soon find out that Clara did stay, at least temporarily, as police chief for Alber. In book two of the series Clara and Max with the rest of the police and forensics team work to solve a heinous slaughter of innocents.
What I liked:
* Clara: strong, determined, intelligent, conflicted, dealing with her past, not sure how to move forward – I liked her.
* Max: strong, determined, loving, good father, Chief Deputy of Sheriff’s Department, a man possibly ready to move on, interested (still) in Clara – I hope he will win Clara over
* The police procedural aspects of the story
* Learning more about the small town and community of Alber
* Thinking about how community and religion form beliefs…and what it takes to move away from them
* That the story was different
* The writing, plot and story telling
* Information about Max and Clara as well as the sect that continues to be shared
* The police team
* The title…perfect for this book
* That it made me think…about the story, religion, my change in religious belief over time, etc
* I cared and was invested in the story
* That the killer was eventually caught
What I did not like:
* The loss of innocent life and the ripple effect it had on so many
* The bigotry
* Being reminded of the power religion/brain washing can have on people
* Knowing that sects/cults like this still exist
* Not having book three in my hand to read right now.
Did I enjoy this book? Yes
Would I read more in this series? Definitely
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
September 27, 2020
I would like to thank Netgalley and Bookouture for an advance copy of Her Final Prayer, the second novel to feature Clara Jeffries, of the Alber, Utah PD.
Clara is now Chief of Police in Alber which means she is leading the investigation when Jacob Johanssen is found bleeding to death on his kitchen floor and his two wives and children dead. The townspeople have decided on a couple of suspects but Clara is determined to follow the evidence no matter how conflicting.
I thoroughly enjoyed Her Final Prayer which has a good plot and likeable characters, in some cases. The plot isn’t particularly original in its thrust but its setting in a polygamous community gives it a novel twist and makes it much more interesting. It’s not something I know much about it and I find it very difficult to empathise with their unyielding commitment to a misogynistic belief system that shuns the majority of the world. The novel sheds light on this belief system, hence my interest, but does little to change my views.
The plot is well conceived with a series of baffling, contradictory facts and several hidden secrets. Add in only two suspects with no obvious motive and the reader gets a real puzzle. About half way through I got an inkling of a suspect but it was not proven until the denouement so I was still glued to the pages.
I like that the novel takes issue with forced marriage and even more that the author blends Clara’s personal history and memories with the current day investigation. It gives the novel more immediacy and bite. Clara is an apostate and shunned by the community in Alber for leaving. Despite this she is a savvy investigator, determined to do her best for the town. Her burgeoning romance with childhood sweetheart, now Chief Sheriff’s Deputy Max Anderson casts new light on her past and insecurities.
Her Final Prayer is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
Clara is now Chief of Police in Alber which means she is leading the investigation when Jacob Johanssen is found bleeding to death on his kitchen floor and his two wives and children dead. The townspeople have decided on a couple of suspects but Clara is determined to follow the evidence no matter how conflicting.
I thoroughly enjoyed Her Final Prayer which has a good plot and likeable characters, in some cases. The plot isn’t particularly original in its thrust but its setting in a polygamous community gives it a novel twist and makes it much more interesting. It’s not something I know much about it and I find it very difficult to empathise with their unyielding commitment to a misogynistic belief system that shuns the majority of the world. The novel sheds light on this belief system, hence my interest, but does little to change my views.
The plot is well conceived with a series of baffling, contradictory facts and several hidden secrets. Add in only two suspects with no obvious motive and the reader gets a real puzzle. About half way through I got an inkling of a suspect but it was not proven until the denouement so I was still glued to the pages.
I like that the novel takes issue with forced marriage and even more that the author blends Clara’s personal history and memories with the current day investigation. It gives the novel more immediacy and bite. Clara is an apostate and shunned by the community in Alber for leaving. Despite this she is a savvy investigator, determined to do her best for the town. Her burgeoning romance with childhood sweetheart, now Chief Sheriff’s Deputy Max Anderson casts new light on her past and insecurities.
Her Final Prayer is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
October 3, 2020
Detective Clara Jefferies is called to the home of a family in the small Alber, Utah polygamous community. She’s faced with something no one would want to face, a family brutally murdered including two young children. The only survivors are an infant and the father. As the father fights to stay alive, Clara makes sure the baby is protected.
Clara begins an investigation which takes her in several different directions. None of the pieces to this puzzle fit. Clara’s past comes back to haunt her when the town shuns her. Even her own family turns their back on her. However, Clara is determined to find out the truth despite all the obstacles in her path.
Clara is a wonderful, strong character. She doesn’t back down from anyone regardless of her emotions. There are so many things going on with her with her relationships with her family and former boyfriend and, yet, she keeps her head on straight and continues the investigation.
I was quite intrigued with this police procedural. I kept trying to peel away layer after layer of clues, trying to figure this all out. I was totally unsuccessful. I didn’t see that ending coming at all.
It was a really fast read for me. I kept trying to put the book down and I just couldn’t. I had to know the ending.
This is the second book in the series. Although they can be read as standalone stories - the mysteries are contained within the story, no cliffhangers, I do think it’s beneficial to read the books in order. Book #1 gives you a full understanding of Clara’s background. This book gives you some info, but it’s really best to read both books in order. I loved the first one, but I loved this one even more and it’s going on my best books of the year list.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a free Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Clara begins an investigation which takes her in several different directions. None of the pieces to this puzzle fit. Clara’s past comes back to haunt her when the town shuns her. Even her own family turns their back on her. However, Clara is determined to find out the truth despite all the obstacles in her path.
Clara is a wonderful, strong character. She doesn’t back down from anyone regardless of her emotions. There are so many things going on with her with her relationships with her family and former boyfriend and, yet, she keeps her head on straight and continues the investigation.
I was quite intrigued with this police procedural. I kept trying to peel away layer after layer of clues, trying to figure this all out. I was totally unsuccessful. I didn’t see that ending coming at all.
It was a really fast read for me. I kept trying to put the book down and I just couldn’t. I had to know the ending.
This is the second book in the series. Although they can be read as standalone stories - the mysteries are contained within the story, no cliffhangers, I do think it’s beneficial to read the books in order. Book #1 gives you a full understanding of Clara’s background. This book gives you some info, but it’s really best to read both books in order. I loved the first one, but I loved this one even more and it’s going on my best books of the year list.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a free Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
October 3, 2020
Book Description:
Her pulse pounded in her ears as she scanned the house. Her eyes traveled over the porch where three empty chairs lazily rocked in the breeze, surrounded by scattered children’s toys. In the yard, there were mounds of earth. Graves. Only big enough for children…
When Detective Clara Jefferies is called to a family ranch just outside of Alber, Utah, she’s horrified to find two innocent young children murdered alongside their mothers. But she arrives at the scene quickly enough to rush their father, Jacob Johansson, to hospital where he begins fighting for his life, and to save his two-month-old son Jeremy, left untouched in his crib.
As Clara begins to investigate, nothing she finds out makes sense. Though she uncovers photos of one of Jacob’s wives in his best friend’s trailer, her flower necklace underneath his bed, there are rumors that she was in love with a different man altogether. And as the close-knit community comes together to support Jacob, Clara’s own family shut her out of the investigation…
But Clara won’t give up. With the killer still at large, baby Jeremy is at risk, and every moment her family are helping Jacob they are also in danger. To earn her family’s trust, Clara finally has to face the past, but can she do it before it’s too late?
Impossible to put down, Her Final Prayer is perfect for readers of Lisa Regan, Melinda Leigh and Kendra Elliot. You’ll race through the pages until the final heart-pounding twist.
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'Her Final Prayer' by Kathryn Casey.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 3rd October 2020
This is the first book that I have read by this author. It is the second book in the 'Detective Clara Jefferies' series. Although this book is second in a series it can be read as a standalone, as I did quite easily.
I was originally drawn to this book by its intriguing and beautiful cover and interesting sounding blurb. I was also drawn to the fact that the blurb stated it was perfect for fans of Melinda Leigh and Kendra Elliot. I am a big fan of both so it will be very interesting to see if it lives up to this. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of 40 chapters. The chapters are short to medium in length so ideal to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is mainly written in first person perspective with the protagonist being Detective Clara Jefferies. I enjoy books written in first person perspective as as long as they are well written it makes you feel that you are being spoken to by the protagonist and it can create more of a bond between yourselves and them. There are also chapters written from Max's perspective in third person narrative. I really enjoyed that the books was mixed first and third party narrative as it gave the best of both worlds, feeling as though your being spoken directly to whole having the overview from another characters perspective. It helps paint a bigger picture.
This book is based in Utah, US 🇺🇸.
This book is very well written and sucked me straight into the storyline. It had great descriptions which helped me picture everything easily. I enjoyed that the perspective of Clara was written from first person perspective and Max as third person. I haven't seen this done in anither book yet and I think it was done extremely well with no mix ups and giving the reader a much larger insight of what was going on from different perspectives. I thought it was very helpful that some of the descriptions of medical terms were explained in layman terms as it helps readers understand what they mean if they don't understand.
I really enjoyed the characters and lied their strong personalities. I loved that Clara speaks about victims as people using their names and visualises alot which helps to set the scenes. I also love the fact that there is a strong female lead, being female myself this is always a bonus!! I also liked Max and how he supported Clara and I look forward to seeing more of how their relationship develops.
The storyline was action packed and filled with mysteries and twists and turns. It kept me up until late turning the pages. Just when I thought I could put it down for the night BOOM another surprise was just around the corner!! I didn't guess who the killer was so definitely bonus points there!! I read alot of crime books so I'm finding it harder to be surprised but I did not expect that one coming.i also found that the storyline about Elijah's people was quite interesting and I was glad it explains some of their "rules" per say.
I would love to see this turned into a movie and am looking forward to reading the next book in this explosive series.
Overall a fast paced psychological crime thriller that will keep you up late at night guessing and turning the pages.
Genres covered include Romance, Mystery, Thriller, Suspense, Psychological Thriller, Police Procedural and Crime Fiction.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of Angela Marsons, Melinda Leigh, C. L Taylor and Kendra Elliot.
336 pages.
This book is £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5/5 (I loved it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
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Author Bio:
A novelist and award-winning journalist, Kathryn Casey is the author of eleven highly acclaimed true crime books and the creator of the Sarah Armstrong mystery series. Library Journal picked THE KILLING STORM as one of the best mysteries of 2010. Her latest true crime, IN PLAIN SIGHT, investigates the Kaufman County prosecutor murders, a case that made worldwide headlines. Casey has appeared on Oprah, 20/20, the Today Show, Good Morning America, the Biography Channel, Reelz, The Travel Network, Investigation Discovery, and many other venues. Ann Rule called Casey “one of the best in the true crime genre.”
http://www.kathryncasey.com/
Twitter: @KathrynCasey
Buy Links:
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Her pulse pounded in her ears as she scanned the house. Her eyes traveled over the porch where three empty chairs lazily rocked in the breeze, surrounded by scattered children’s toys. In the yard, there were mounds of earth. Graves. Only big enough for children…
When Detective Clara Jefferies is called to a family ranch just outside of Alber, Utah, she’s horrified to find two innocent young children murdered alongside their mothers. But she arrives at the scene quickly enough to rush their father, Jacob Johansson, to hospital where he begins fighting for his life, and to save his two-month-old son Jeremy, left untouched in his crib.
As Clara begins to investigate, nothing she finds out makes sense. Though she uncovers photos of one of Jacob’s wives in his best friend’s trailer, her flower necklace underneath his bed, there are rumors that she was in love with a different man altogether. And as the close-knit community comes together to support Jacob, Clara’s own family shut her out of the investigation…
But Clara won’t give up. With the killer still at large, baby Jeremy is at risk, and every moment her family are helping Jacob they are also in danger. To earn her family’s trust, Clara finally has to face the past, but can she do it before it’s too late?
Impossible to put down, Her Final Prayer is perfect for readers of Lisa Regan, Melinda Leigh and Kendra Elliot. You’ll race through the pages until the final heart-pounding twist.
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'Her Final Prayer' by Kathryn Casey.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 3rd October 2020
This is the first book that I have read by this author. It is the second book in the 'Detective Clara Jefferies' series. Although this book is second in a series it can be read as a standalone, as I did quite easily.
I was originally drawn to this book by its intriguing and beautiful cover and interesting sounding blurb. I was also drawn to the fact that the blurb stated it was perfect for fans of Melinda Leigh and Kendra Elliot. I am a big fan of both so it will be very interesting to see if it lives up to this. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of 40 chapters. The chapters are short to medium in length so ideal to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is mainly written in first person perspective with the protagonist being Detective Clara Jefferies. I enjoy books written in first person perspective as as long as they are well written it makes you feel that you are being spoken to by the protagonist and it can create more of a bond between yourselves and them. There are also chapters written from Max's perspective in third person narrative. I really enjoyed that the books was mixed first and third party narrative as it gave the best of both worlds, feeling as though your being spoken directly to whole having the overview from another characters perspective. It helps paint a bigger picture.
This book is based in Utah, US 🇺🇸.
This book is very well written and sucked me straight into the storyline. It had great descriptions which helped me picture everything easily. I enjoyed that the perspective of Clara was written from first person perspective and Max as third person. I haven't seen this done in anither book yet and I think it was done extremely well with no mix ups and giving the reader a much larger insight of what was going on from different perspectives. I thought it was very helpful that some of the descriptions of medical terms were explained in layman terms as it helps readers understand what they mean if they don't understand.
I really enjoyed the characters and lied their strong personalities. I loved that Clara speaks about victims as people using their names and visualises alot which helps to set the scenes. I also love the fact that there is a strong female lead, being female myself this is always a bonus!! I also liked Max and how he supported Clara and I look forward to seeing more of how their relationship develops.
The storyline was action packed and filled with mysteries and twists and turns. It kept me up until late turning the pages. Just when I thought I could put it down for the night BOOM another surprise was just around the corner!! I didn't guess who the killer was so definitely bonus points there!! I read alot of crime books so I'm finding it harder to be surprised but I did not expect that one coming.i also found that the storyline about Elijah's people was quite interesting and I was glad it explains some of their "rules" per say.
I would love to see this turned into a movie and am looking forward to reading the next book in this explosive series.
Overall a fast paced psychological crime thriller that will keep you up late at night guessing and turning the pages.
Genres covered include Romance, Mystery, Thriller, Suspense, Psychological Thriller, Police Procedural and Crime Fiction.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of Angela Marsons, Melinda Leigh, C. L Taylor and Kendra Elliot.
336 pages.
This book is £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5/5 (I loved it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
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Author Bio:
A novelist and award-winning journalist, Kathryn Casey is the author of eleven highly acclaimed true crime books and the creator of the Sarah Armstrong mystery series. Library Journal picked THE KILLING STORM as one of the best mysteries of 2010. Her latest true crime, IN PLAIN SIGHT, investigates the Kaufman County prosecutor murders, a case that made worldwide headlines. Casey has appeared on Oprah, 20/20, the Today Show, Good Morning America, the Biography Channel, Reelz, The Travel Network, Investigation Discovery, and many other venues. Ann Rule called Casey “one of the best in the true crime genre.”
http://www.kathryncasey.com/
Twitter: @KathrynCasey
Buy Links:
Amazon: https://bit.ly/3crjGHL
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Kobo: https://bit.ly/2Bkpgx9
Google: https://bit.ly/2Y76keg
May 8, 2024
Another outstanding book! Would def recommend these books now on to the third book called The blessed bones.
February 26, 2021
Her Final Prayer is an exceptionally well-written novel. The author grabs you in the opening paragraph and keeps you turning page after page, following the latest Clara Jeffries mystery.
While fighting the secretive polygamous community, outcast Detective Clara Jeffries struggles to solve the murder of an entire family. This religious sect's practices discourage contact with outsiders and shun entirely anyone who has left the fold. Clara and Sheriff Max both fall into this category, making their investigation doubly difficult.
The book is well-written, with scenes so vivid they play like a movie in your mind. Kathryn Casey is a master at slipping in a clue here and another there, leading you down the path to a stunning conclusion.
I almost passed up book one because it didn’t seem like my typical type of story. Thank goodness I decided to read The Fallen Girls because I have enjoyed the characters, plot, and writing style immensely. This excellent sequel left me immediately reaching for book three.
While fighting the secretive polygamous community, outcast Detective Clara Jeffries struggles to solve the murder of an entire family. This religious sect's practices discourage contact with outsiders and shun entirely anyone who has left the fold. Clara and Sheriff Max both fall into this category, making their investigation doubly difficult.
The book is well-written, with scenes so vivid they play like a movie in your mind. Kathryn Casey is a master at slipping in a clue here and another there, leading you down the path to a stunning conclusion.
I almost passed up book one because it didn’t seem like my typical type of story. Thank goodness I decided to read The Fallen Girls because I have enjoyed the characters, plot, and writing style immensely. This excellent sequel left me immediately reaching for book three.
October 2, 2020
When Detective Clara Jefferies is called to a ranch just outside of Alber, Utah, she’s sickened to find two innocent young children murdered alongside their mothers. Their father, Jacob Johansson, has been rushed to hospital where he fights for his life. Blissfully unaware, his two-month-old son Jeremy has been left untouched in his crib. In the eyes of the community Jacob is the perfect, devout husband, seemingly living a peaceful, happy life. But Clara is certain that the crime is personal: one of Jacob’s wives was killed differently, her lips painted after she died.
This is the second book in the series & is easily read on its own. I found it a well written interesting read, as it was set in a polygamous community which was a new setting for me & one I know very little about so my interest was enhanced. There are plenty of secrets & red herrings & I avidly read to find out who as guilty. The paced was good & on the whole the characters were likeable. I look forward to more stories in the series
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
This is the second book in the series & is easily read on its own. I found it a well written interesting read, as it was set in a polygamous community which was a new setting for me & one I know very little about so my interest was enhanced. There are plenty of secrets & red herrings & I avidly read to find out who as guilty. The paced was good & on the whole the characters were likeable. I look forward to more stories in the series
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
October 7, 2020
First, I want to thank Kathryn Casey, Bookouture and NetGalley for providing me with this book so I may bring you this review.
Kathryn Casey is back again in her second book of the Detective Clara Jefferies series Her Final Prayer. If you have not read her first book The Fallen Girls then I highly suggest you read that first. This way you will get to know the characters and their backstory as you will see them again in this book.
Kathryn shook me to the core with this one very intense, suspenseful and one horrific scene. The detailed description of what Naomi sees is so sickening that you worst be able to get out of your head. Nobody should ever witness something like that.
Her Final Prayer is one fast paced book that will have you glued your kindle! It is filled with scenes that are so sickening you won't be able to get them out of your head.
Loved the names of Kathryn’s characters like Kaylynn, Sybille, Naomi, Reba, and Jacob. This is a way of showing her readers her creative and unique side to her.
Kathryn Casey is back again in her second book of the Detective Clara Jefferies series Her Final Prayer. If you have not read her first book The Fallen Girls then I highly suggest you read that first. This way you will get to know the characters and their backstory as you will see them again in this book.
Kathryn shook me to the core with this one very intense, suspenseful and one horrific scene. The detailed description of what Naomi sees is so sickening that you worst be able to get out of your head. Nobody should ever witness something like that.
Her Final Prayer is one fast paced book that will have you glued your kindle! It is filled with scenes that are so sickening you won't be able to get them out of your head.
Loved the names of Kathryn’s characters like Kaylynn, Sybille, Naomi, Reba, and Jacob. This is a way of showing her readers her creative and unique side to her.
July 14, 2021
Her Final Prayer by Kathryn Casey is the second book in the Detective Clara Jefferies series and I loved it .This second book was brilliant from start to finish I was hooked within the first few pages and that were I stayed - Its was fast paced and full of twists and turns throughout.
I highly recommend this book and so looking forward to her next installment in the Detective Clara Jefferies.
Big thank-you to netgalley the Bookouture and author for the advanced digital copy of this book in exchange for my fair and honest opinions.
I highly recommend this book and so looking forward to her next installment in the Detective Clara Jefferies.
Big thank-you to netgalley the Bookouture and author for the advanced digital copy of this book in exchange for my fair and honest opinions.
September 11, 2020
So good! Absolutely love this series and so excited to read more. This is definitely on my list of favorite series to read and follow. Well-written. Love the characters. Love the story. This is book 2 in the series and definitely suggest reading in order.
Highly recommend!!!!
Thank you #netgalley and #bookouture for this eARC.
Highly recommend!!!!
Thank you #netgalley and #bookouture for this eARC.
September 14, 2020
After enjoying “The Fallen Girls” (Detective Clara Jeffries Book 1) I couldn’t wait for Book 2 to be released, and here it is! “Her Final Prayer” begins where “The Fallen Girls” ends. Clara Jeffries is now Chief of Police of her hometown in Alber, Utah. She doesn’t “feel” at home because the town still regards her as an apostate, an outsider. But Jeffries has her own reasons for coming “home” and part of that is to find resolution with her fundamentalist family, while the other part is the unresolved feelings she has for Max. Religion, tradition, and small town dynamics means everyone is watching all the time. Still, no one is willing to talk with Clara to help solve the brutal murder of Jacob’s two wives and two of their young children, while leaving Jacob fighting for his life. It isn’t necessary to read the first book in the series to enjoy this one, but I think you’d find it helpful to start in order. Casey does a wonderful job with character development and has a way of making the reader feel like they are part of the story. An interesting plot involving fundamentalist religion, with well-researched crime scene and police investigative tactics, and a few twists and turns along the way makes for another great Casey read. Start with Book 1, move on to Book 2, and then patiently wait with the rest of us for Book 3! You won’t be disappointed.
October 5, 2020
I love this novel for the excellent plot and the unusual setting. It’s a gripping and highly entertaining story, full of twists and turns, that kept me hooked till the end.
I loved Claire and was fascinated by the descriptions on the life in a small town where a community of polygamist lives.
Claire was a member of the community but, as it often happens with those that are considered apostate, she’s seen like an outcast. She faces a lot of pressure to resign from her work as chief of police. She’s a strong woman who loves her jobs and wants justice for the victims. A fascinating and intriguing character, well thought as the other characters in this story.
I loved how the author deals with issues like mysoginy, the role of the women and how a close community can turn those who are felt as different.
There are a lot of layers in this book: the mystery, Claire’s personal story and the evolution of people and of a community.
The mystery is grim, full of twists and turns and the solution came as a surprise.
A well written, atmospheric and fascinating story, I can’t wait to read the next instalment.
Strongly recommended.
Many thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
I loved Claire and was fascinated by the descriptions on the life in a small town where a community of polygamist lives.
Claire was a member of the community but, as it often happens with those that are considered apostate, she’s seen like an outcast. She faces a lot of pressure to resign from her work as chief of police. She’s a strong woman who loves her jobs and wants justice for the victims. A fascinating and intriguing character, well thought as the other characters in this story.
I loved how the author deals with issues like mysoginy, the role of the women and how a close community can turn those who are felt as different.
There are a lot of layers in this book: the mystery, Claire’s personal story and the evolution of people and of a community.
The mystery is grim, full of twists and turns and the solution came as a surprise.
A well written, atmospheric and fascinating story, I can’t wait to read the next instalment.
Strongly recommended.
Many thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
December 12, 2020
TRIGGER WARNING: this book deals with child murder
Clara Jefferies has a devastating new case: the murder of two children and their mothers plus the father seriously injured and the baby unattended in his cot. Clara's own Mormon family shun her but the community need to reconcile their animosity with the detective in order to help her catch the killer...
Her Final Prayer is the sequel to The Fallen Girls. It would work as a stand alone novel but I would recommend reading the first book to understand the mindset of the main character Clara and the town she grew up in and has now returned to.
Clara continues to face difficulties from her choice to leave her family and religion and this hampers the investigation as the town closes ranks against her. Luckily Clara has a tenacious and resilient personality so she is able to persist with the investigation despite the community's rejection of her.
The first person narrative enables us to feel more connected to Clara although some chapters are written from other third person viewpoints but are less personal. The romantic potential for Clara and Max to grow closer continues to develop.
Her Final Prayer is an engaging and thought provoking police procedure novel from a series with a unique personal life for the lead detective.
Clara Jefferies has a devastating new case: the murder of two children and their mothers plus the father seriously injured and the baby unattended in his cot. Clara's own Mormon family shun her but the community need to reconcile their animosity with the detective in order to help her catch the killer...
Her Final Prayer is the sequel to The Fallen Girls. It would work as a stand alone novel but I would recommend reading the first book to understand the mindset of the main character Clara and the town she grew up in and has now returned to.
Clara continues to face difficulties from her choice to leave her family and religion and this hampers the investigation as the town closes ranks against her. Luckily Clara has a tenacious and resilient personality so she is able to persist with the investigation despite the community's rejection of her.
The first person narrative enables us to feel more connected to Clara although some chapters are written from other third person viewpoints but are less personal. The romantic potential for Clara and Max to grow closer continues to develop.
Her Final Prayer is an engaging and thought provoking police procedure novel from a series with a unique personal life for the lead detective.
April 28, 2021
The perfect "who done it"!
I absolutely love Kathryn Casey, and I have read every true crime book Kathryn has put out. I do not usually read fiction but thought Kathryn could prove me wrong and out of curiosity I bought and enjoyed the first book in the series enough to buy the 2nd book.
I was gripped from the beginning as the characters draw you in as you follow their life’s. As the investigation unravels for Clara and Max in this story you feel you are living the investigation with them as the book grips you with an atmosphere of tension and suspense as you turn each page.
I love the twists and turns in the story and I promise you will not want to put this book; down nor will you want to finish it. I Highly recommend this book. It is an amazingly written piece of fiction. The perfect "who done it"! Kathryn never disappoints, the characters are easily relatable, and you really get invested in the story.
Kathryn Casey is a truly exceptional author. I cannot wait to read the next book in this series.
I am an ARC Reviewer on Goodread and BookSirens and I am leaving this review voluntarily..
I absolutely love Kathryn Casey, and I have read every true crime book Kathryn has put out. I do not usually read fiction but thought Kathryn could prove me wrong and out of curiosity I bought and enjoyed the first book in the series enough to buy the 2nd book.
I was gripped from the beginning as the characters draw you in as you follow their life’s. As the investigation unravels for Clara and Max in this story you feel you are living the investigation with them as the book grips you with an atmosphere of tension and suspense as you turn each page.
I love the twists and turns in the story and I promise you will not want to put this book; down nor will you want to finish it. I Highly recommend this book. It is an amazingly written piece of fiction. The perfect "who done it"! Kathryn never disappoints, the characters are easily relatable, and you really get invested in the story.
Kathryn Casey is a truly exceptional author. I cannot wait to read the next book in this series.
I am an ARC Reviewer on Goodread and BookSirens and I am leaving this review voluntarily..
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