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Adler and Dwyer #2
Tell Me the Truth
From the bestselling author of What Have You Done comes a real whodunit about the bloody crimes that keep families together and tear them apart.
Eighteen-year-old Jenny Moore is looking forward to a fresh start at college. There’s just one problem: the people in her life won’t let her go.
When Jenny is viciously stabbed and left for dead, it’s her mother who finds Jenny’s body underneath the pines outside their home in the upscale town of Lewisboro, New York. State police investigator Susan Adler and her consultant partner Liam Dwyer are called to investigate the crime scene, but they sense something’s off right away.
The clues contradict the story Jenny’s parents keep telling, which makes the entire family suspects in Jenny’s murder. But who did it? Was it the wealthy father? The disappointed mother? The strange, quiet little brother? The jealous best friend? An ex-lover?
So many suspects. Too many secrets. One town with a history of hiding the truth.
But this is only the beginning of Susan and Liam’s investigation…because the killer is just getting started.
Eighteen-year-old Jenny Moore is looking forward to a fresh start at college. There’s just one problem: the people in her life won’t let her go.
When Jenny is viciously stabbed and left for dead, it’s her mother who finds Jenny’s body underneath the pines outside their home in the upscale town of Lewisboro, New York. State police investigator Susan Adler and her consultant partner Liam Dwyer are called to investigate the crime scene, but they sense something’s off right away.
The clues contradict the story Jenny’s parents keep telling, which makes the entire family suspects in Jenny’s murder. But who did it? Was it the wealthy father? The disappointed mother? The strange, quiet little brother? The jealous best friend? An ex-lover?
So many suspects. Too many secrets. One town with a history of hiding the truth.
But this is only the beginning of Susan and Liam’s investigation…because the killer is just getting started.
335 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 22, 2021
478 people are currently reading
2305 people want to read
About the author
Matthew Farrell
10 books614 followersMatthew Farrell lives just outside of New York City in the Hudson Valley with his wife and two daughters. Get caught up on the progress of his next thriller along with his general musings by following him on Twitter @mfarrellwriter or liking his page on Facebook: www.facebook.com/mfarrellwriter2.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 210 reviews
August 10, 2021
Tell Me the Truth by Matthew Farrell is part of the Adler and Dwyer series but reads well as a stand-alone. Jenny Moore is months away from leaving home to attend college. But, sadly, she is found in the woods behind her house and she has been stabbed to death. Adler and Dwyer are tasked with assisting the local police force as they investigate the horrid murder of this young girl in Lewisboro, New York. It becomes apparent that no one is telling the truth about what happened the night that Jenny went into the woods and never returned. Her wealthy father, her strict mother, her confused teenage brother, his friend who has a crush on Jenny, her best friend all have different versions of what might have happened. The clues are plenty but readers will be led down the wrong paths many times. This is what makes Tell Me the Truth such an excellent thriller. The tension is intense and the original plot never quits keeping the reader’s attention. This is a great read for all mystery fans. I look forward to reading more titles by Matthew Farrell. Highly recommended. Thank you to Thomas & Mercer, NetGalley and the author for the e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 17, 2021
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free, electronic ARC of this novel received in exchange for an honest review.
Expected publication date: June 22, 2021
“Tell Me the Truth” is the second novel in the Adler and Dwyer book series, by author Matthew Farrell. I was first introduced to Farrell through his novel, “I Know Everything” and immediately became addicted to his pulse-pounding, suspense-filled stories, and “Tell Me the Truth” fits right in!
Jenny Moore is eighteen years old, and looking forward to her bright future at Duke University. One summer day, Jenny is found brutally stabbed in the woods behind her home. When Susan Adler and Liam Dwyer come to investigate, they immediately feel that something is off. Why did the mother come inside the house, in the early morning hours, covered in blood? Why did the father come home from his business trip a day early? Why was Jenny seeing a priest months before she died, for counseling and advice? The secrets continue to pile up and the Moore family continues to look more and more guilty. But which one is responsible? And why?
The Adler and Dwyer series is new to me, and I haven’t read the first one. Luckily, you don’t really need to. Although some of the back story between the pair obviously developed in the first book, the main plot is easy to follow without that knowledge. The chapters are short, which make the novel a fly-through-the-pages read, and I was easily able to plow through this one in a day.
There are many secrets in this novel, and many questions to answer, so the reader is always left guessing. There is a twist and turn in nearly every chapter, and this definitely kept me entertained and invested throughout.
All of the Moore family members are likable, but you know something is off about them instantly. Farrell makes all of them look guilty, and innocent, all at once and as the blame is shifted and the questions keep mounting, the suspense builds until the final twist hits and all is revealed. The ending was surprising and satisfying, while still being believable.
Farrell delivers a tense police procedural about the secrets a family keeps to protect each other. Adler and Dwyer are two characters I will definitely look forward to seeing in the future.
Expected publication date: June 22, 2021
“Tell Me the Truth” is the second novel in the Adler and Dwyer book series, by author Matthew Farrell. I was first introduced to Farrell through his novel, “I Know Everything” and immediately became addicted to his pulse-pounding, suspense-filled stories, and “Tell Me the Truth” fits right in!
Jenny Moore is eighteen years old, and looking forward to her bright future at Duke University. One summer day, Jenny is found brutally stabbed in the woods behind her home. When Susan Adler and Liam Dwyer come to investigate, they immediately feel that something is off. Why did the mother come inside the house, in the early morning hours, covered in blood? Why did the father come home from his business trip a day early? Why was Jenny seeing a priest months before she died, for counseling and advice? The secrets continue to pile up and the Moore family continues to look more and more guilty. But which one is responsible? And why?
The Adler and Dwyer series is new to me, and I haven’t read the first one. Luckily, you don’t really need to. Although some of the back story between the pair obviously developed in the first book, the main plot is easy to follow without that knowledge. The chapters are short, which make the novel a fly-through-the-pages read, and I was easily able to plow through this one in a day.
There are many secrets in this novel, and many questions to answer, so the reader is always left guessing. There is a twist and turn in nearly every chapter, and this definitely kept me entertained and invested throughout.
All of the Moore family members are likable, but you know something is off about them instantly. Farrell makes all of them look guilty, and innocent, all at once and as the blame is shifted and the questions keep mounting, the suspense builds until the final twist hits and all is revealed. The ending was surprising and satisfying, while still being believable.
Farrell delivers a tense police procedural about the secrets a family keeps to protect each other. Adler and Dwyer are two characters I will definitely look forward to seeing in the future.
June 22, 2021
Tell Me The Truth is the second instalment in the State Police Investigator Susan Adler and partner Liam Dwyer series and is a real whodunit about the bloody crimes that keep families together and tear them apart. 18-year-old Jennifer Moore is viciously and repeatedly stabbed to death and left for her mother, Mindy, to find under the pines outside their upscale NY home. Susan Adler of the New York State Police and her partner Liam Dwyer are called to investigate, but they sense something’s off right away. Noel Moore, Jenny’s father, is cognizant that the story he told Susan about him arriving back home from a business trip in Florida to find his wife in a catatonic state over the discovery of her daughter’s body does not ring true. Noel and Mindy’s 13-year-old son, Charlie, also knows that their version of events is a pack of lies and he holds himself responsible for his sister’s murder a mere few weeks from her moving out to accept her place at Duke University. Mindy is in such a bad way that questioning of her cannot commence for several days and until several rounds of sedation have been prescribed.
But the police are starting to believe that they would only be treated to yet more untruths should she talk to them. Contradicting stories point to Jenny’s own family as suspects for the murder. With so many suspects and too many secrets, Adler and Dwyer have their work cut out for them…especially with the killer just getting started. Can Adler ably assisted by Dwyer get to the bottom of what happened to a teenager with her whole future ahead of her? This is a cross between a police procedural and a domestic thriller, and I must admit I found it far more compulsive than I initially thought I would. The suspect pool is quite large and I loved the way everyone close to the family was analyzed with a fine-tooth comb. There is a twisted trail of secrets, betrayal, lies and deceit all of which are highly disturbing and the impeccably placed twists and red herrings ratcheted up the tension and had me believing I knew where the story was heading before the author sternly showed me just how wrong I was. Highly recommended.
But the police are starting to believe that they would only be treated to yet more untruths should she talk to them. Contradicting stories point to Jenny’s own family as suspects for the murder. With so many suspects and too many secrets, Adler and Dwyer have their work cut out for them…especially with the killer just getting started. Can Adler ably assisted by Dwyer get to the bottom of what happened to a teenager with her whole future ahead of her? This is a cross between a police procedural and a domestic thriller, and I must admit I found it far more compulsive than I initially thought I would. The suspect pool is quite large and I loved the way everyone close to the family was analyzed with a fine-tooth comb. There is a twisted trail of secrets, betrayal, lies and deceit all of which are highly disturbing and the impeccably placed twists and red herrings ratcheted up the tension and had me believing I knew where the story was heading before the author sternly showed me just how wrong I was. Highly recommended.
January 19, 2021
This was an exciting read with a lot of twists and turns, not to mention red herrings galore! It centers on the murder of an 18-year-old named Jennifer, discovered by her family in the woods behind her house just weeks before she was due to leave for college. We know early on that the parents are lying but we don't know why, or the extent of those lies, and there are also a multitude of other characters who have a potential reason to hurt Jennifer. The book alternates POVs between various family members and the police investigators.
I love a book where I can't figure out who did it because there are so many viable suspects. This book did not disappoint in that respect. I had concocted a story in my head and ended up being wrong, with the truth possibly even darker than what I had expected to happen. The story moved at a fast pace and constantly kept me guessing.
I didn't realize this was the 2nd book in a series but didn't feel like I missed anything by not having read the first book, other than the building relationship between the detective, Susan, and the consultant, Liam. I could personally have done without that piece, as well as Susan's constant doubts about work-life balance- I would have preferred to just focus on the mystery itself. That being said, the personal dynamics were not a huge part of the book.
Also, minor nit, but the book said she was "left for dead" multiple times, even in the synopsis, but she actually WAS dead, which is clear from the very beginning. Just thought that was an odd and confusing choice of words.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and loved that I wasn't able to figure out who the culprit was, despite developing so many different opinions throughout the book. This is a fast-paced mystery and I'd recommend it; I plan on reading the next book in the series. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I love a book where I can't figure out who did it because there are so many viable suspects. This book did not disappoint in that respect. I had concocted a story in my head and ended up being wrong, with the truth possibly even darker than what I had expected to happen. The story moved at a fast pace and constantly kept me guessing.
I didn't realize this was the 2nd book in a series but didn't feel like I missed anything by not having read the first book, other than the building relationship between the detective, Susan, and the consultant, Liam. I could personally have done without that piece, as well as Susan's constant doubts about work-life balance- I would have preferred to just focus on the mystery itself. That being said, the personal dynamics were not a huge part of the book.
Also, minor nit, but the book said she was "left for dead" multiple times, even in the synopsis, but she actually WAS dead, which is clear from the very beginning. Just thought that was an odd and confusing choice of words.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and loved that I wasn't able to figure out who the culprit was, despite developing so many different opinions throughout the book. This is a fast-paced mystery and I'd recommend it; I plan on reading the next book in the series. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 10, 2021
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ -- Thoroughly enjoyed this one!
So wowza, this was such an excellent book! Well written. Well paced. Intricate plot full of twists and turns. Well developed and likable characters. Usually I am very good (if I say so myself 😂) at sherlocking out the person(s) responsible in these type of mysteries, but this one had me stumped and then shocked, right until the end. So kudos to the author for that! I can't wait to see what is up next for this duo.
**ARC Via NetGalley**
So wowza, this was such an excellent book! Well written. Well paced. Intricate plot full of twists and turns. Well developed and likable characters. Usually I am very good (if I say so myself 😂) at sherlocking out the person(s) responsible in these type of mysteries, but this one had me stumped and then shocked, right until the end. So kudos to the author for that! I can't wait to see what is up next for this duo.
**ARC Via NetGalley**
January 22, 2021
I do love a good US police procedural, and Tell Me The Truth did not disappoint. I enjoy reading about the police procedural side of things and the differences between UK and US law. Matthew Farrell is an excellent writer with the power to captivate his audience. This is a surprising and intense novel that keeps you guessing until the very end.
February 2, 2021
I received this free book through Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving a review .
Tell me the truth by Matthew Ferrell was a very enjoyable thriller. There were many twists and turns so w you couldn't be sure who the killer was. Just when I thought I had figured it out, something new would be revealed. I now want to read the first book and am anxiously awaiting any books in the future from this author.
Tell me the truth by Matthew Ferrell was a very enjoyable thriller. There were many twists and turns so w you couldn't be sure who the killer was. Just when I thought I had figured it out, something new would be revealed. I now want to read the first book and am anxiously awaiting any books in the future from this author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 3, 2021
The one obvious, immediate truth in this tale of lies upon lies is that Matthew Farrell has crafted a hard-charging, twisty police procedural that literally hits home
May 12, 2024
Thanks to my dear friend, Kimmy for introducing me to Matthew Farrell, a new author for both of us. If it wasn’t for her recommendation (& book loan) I wouldn’t have read this police procedural book since it is not typically the kind of book I prefer, however, Farrell created an unfathomable domestic mystery that I was glued to from the start. And the ending!! What a shocker-it came out of no where! In addition to the quick pacing of this story, I enjoyed the many layers of this engaging and compulsive read. The high energy narrative and well developed characters made this an unforgettable story. All in all, I loved this thrilling adventure and I am now looking forward to reading more of Farrell’s work.
June 30, 2021
This was such a marvellous, quality read! Tell Me the Truth by Matthew Farrell featuring Susan Adler and partner Liam Dwyer certainly grabbed my attention. It's not necessary to have read Farrell's other novels (What Have You Done? (book 0.5), I Know Everything (book 0.75) and Don't Ever Forget (book 1)) to fully enjoy this one. I was thrown in from the get-go and I couldn’t flip the pages fast enough on my kindle!
With great characterisation, the pacing was good throughout and there was no superfluous padding to distract. This was a well written, researched and crafted thriller that had me reading well into the night. The beauty of this book and the clincher for me was the psychological nuances in the story. It kept things interesting and added a deeper element. Clever, creative, and thoroughly enjoyable, Tell Me the Truth is well worth a read!
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my own request from Thomas & Mercer via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
With great characterisation, the pacing was good throughout and there was no superfluous padding to distract. This was a well written, researched and crafted thriller that had me reading well into the night. The beauty of this book and the clincher for me was the psychological nuances in the story. It kept things interesting and added a deeper element. Clever, creative, and thoroughly enjoyable, Tell Me the Truth is well worth a read!
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my own request from Thomas & Mercer via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
August 9, 2023
3.5
En general fue un libro muy entretenido, que me puso a pensar bastante para saber quién era el culpable. El caso estuvo bien desarrollado y las pruebas eran sólidas.
Lo que no me gusto fue la parte personal de la detective, estaba loca por darle 2 galletas a esa mujer para que no fuera tan ridícula. El final fue muy cursi y obvio 🙄
Aunque el caso que se lee en este libro no tiene conexión con el primer libro, es lo contrario en la parte personal de la detective, porque ocurren cosas en el primer libro que la afectan en este.
En general fue un libro muy entretenido, que me puso a pensar bastante para saber quién era el culpable. El caso estuvo bien desarrollado y las pruebas eran sólidas.
Lo que no me gusto fue la parte personal de la detective, estaba loca por darle 2 galletas a esa mujer para que no fuera tan ridícula. El final fue muy cursi y obvio 🙄
Aunque el caso que se lee en este libro no tiene conexión con el primer libro, es lo contrario en la parte personal de la detective, porque ocurren cosas en el primer libro que la afectan en este.
July 1, 2021
3.5
Очень быстро и легко читается, и вроде бы герои и сюжет как надо, но я заподозревала убийцу на 4й главе из 70, а в 14й убедилась в своих подозрениях.
Очень быстро и легко читается, и вроде бы герои и сюжет как надо, но я заподозревала убийцу на 4й главе из 70, а в 14й убедилась в своих подозрениях.
July 16, 2021
Another great murder mystery by Matthew Farrell. So many twists and yet I knew the story wasn’t over when the case was thought to be solved. I felt so sorry for this poor girl and was enraged at the reason for her death. Can’t say why or I’ll spoil the story. You’ll just have to read it.
June 30, 2021
Thank you Booksparks and Thomas Mercer for the gifted copy of Tell Me the Truth ( partner || #src2021 }
Genre: Mystery
Trope: Police Procedural
Pub Date: 6.22.21
Star Rating: ☆☆☆☆
“No murder weapon. No Witness. Countless lies.”
I have to admit, I was surprised by this story. At first, I thought it started on the wrong foot as the dialogue felt forced or unnatural, but then it picked up and I couldn’t stop reading. I ended up reading Tell Me the Truth in one day as every chapter concluded with a cliffhanger and I needed to know what had happened to Jennifer.
The author did a phenomenal job of creating a slew of characters that would lead the reader to suspect them of the murder of Jennifer. I admit that did figure out who was responsible halfway through, I did not anticipate the other twists at the end.
☑️ Finished in one day
🔀 One dramatic twist after another
🚔 Interesting police procedural
🤯 Short chapters that often end with cliffhangers
❌ - sexual abuse
Tell Me the Truth is the second book of the series and while I don’t think you need to necessarily read the first, there were a few instances that I wish I had the backstory of what a character was referencing but it wasn’t often enough that it left me feeling left out.
I recommend you read Tell Me the Truth if you’re a fan of White Out/Far Gone, Local Woman Missing, or The Network and enjoyed any Christina McDonald and Cristina Alger novels.
What was the last book you finished in a day?
Genre: Mystery
Trope: Police Procedural
Pub Date: 6.22.21
Star Rating: ☆☆☆☆
“No murder weapon. No Witness. Countless lies.”
I have to admit, I was surprised by this story. At first, I thought it started on the wrong foot as the dialogue felt forced or unnatural, but then it picked up and I couldn’t stop reading. I ended up reading Tell Me the Truth in one day as every chapter concluded with a cliffhanger and I needed to know what had happened to Jennifer.
The author did a phenomenal job of creating a slew of characters that would lead the reader to suspect them of the murder of Jennifer. I admit that did figure out who was responsible halfway through, I did not anticipate the other twists at the end.
☑️ Finished in one day
🔀 One dramatic twist after another
🚔 Interesting police procedural
🤯 Short chapters that often end with cliffhangers
❌ - sexual abuse
Tell Me the Truth is the second book of the series and while I don’t think you need to necessarily read the first, there were a few instances that I wish I had the backstory of what a character was referencing but it wasn’t often enough that it left me feeling left out.
I recommend you read Tell Me the Truth if you’re a fan of White Out/Far Gone, Local Woman Missing, or The Network and enjoyed any Christina McDonald and Cristina Alger novels.
What was the last book you finished in a day?
June 10, 2021
While this book can absolutely be read as a stand-alone, there are mentions of events that took place in the first book, which can be a spoiler if you intend to read that book as well.
On the whole, I enjoyed this novel more than I did the first in this series. Unlike some of the other people who have reviewed, I enjoyed the glimpses into Susan's family life and the way she often struggled to balance her home life with her work. I felt it made her relatable to the other single parents out there who are trying their best everyday. I also enjoyed the budding romance between her and Liam, although I sincerely hope that doesn't begin to overshadow the whodunit portion of future novels.
This was definitely an interesting read, with all of the twists and red-herrings needed to keep the reader guessing and invested. I will say at times, certain things became a little too... convenient, and at other times, had I been Adler and Dwyer, I would have started hauling people in for obstruction of justice. I will also admit that sadly, while I was interested in the outcome of the story, I found myself skimming parts towards the end because it started to become a bit tedious with all the withholding of information and secrets.
The ending was something that I did not expect, and looking back, I can't even pinpoint a time when one of the culprits was even hinted at having something to do with any part of the murder previously.
In conclusion, I would recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys slow burn police procedurals that will keep you guessing.
DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.
On the whole, I enjoyed this novel more than I did the first in this series. Unlike some of the other people who have reviewed, I enjoyed the glimpses into Susan's family life and the way she often struggled to balance her home life with her work. I felt it made her relatable to the other single parents out there who are trying their best everyday. I also enjoyed the budding romance between her and Liam, although I sincerely hope that doesn't begin to overshadow the whodunit portion of future novels.
This was definitely an interesting read, with all of the twists and red-herrings needed to keep the reader guessing and invested. I will say at times, certain things became a little too... convenient, and at other times, had I been Adler and Dwyer, I would have started hauling people in for obstruction of justice. I will also admit that sadly, while I was interested in the outcome of the story, I found myself skimming parts towards the end because it started to become a bit tedious with all the withholding of information and secrets.
The ending was something that I did not expect, and looking back, I can't even pinpoint a time when one of the culprits was even hinted at having something to do with any part of the murder previously.
In conclusion, I would recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys slow burn police procedurals that will keep you guessing.
DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.
February 14, 2021
I received this ebook through NetGalley in échange for an honest review. The book centres around the murder of a teenage girl who was found in the woods behind her house. An investigator from the State Police, Susan, is brought in to help in the investigation. She has a new partner, Liam who it seems she met in the first book in those series. I didn’t read the first book but I don’t think it was necessary to read before this one.
There are several twists and false leads as the case evolves which keeps you interested in the story. I found the characters weren’t developed enough for my liking, leaving me not able to care much about any of the characters. I felt like the book was written from a list of events and characters and there wasn’t enough thought put into how they would all blend together to create the story.
In general it was a good book but it lacked the excitement and suspense that makes for a great book.
There are several twists and false leads as the case evolves which keeps you interested in the story. I found the characters weren’t developed enough for my liking, leaving me not able to care much about any of the characters. I felt like the book was written from a list of events and characters and there wasn’t enough thought put into how they would all blend together to create the story.
In general it was a good book but it lacked the excitement and suspense that makes for a great book.
June 24, 2021
Really exciting second installment in the series! This had me hooked from the beginning, and I flew through it in an afternoon. I thought the way the mystery played out was handled really well. There were plenty of red herrings, but nothing felt forced and it all came together really well (even if the truth was disturbing!)
I also really liked how Adler's personal life was interspersed into the story. It was just enough to make her human, but didn't take away from the primary plot. It was enough to keep me intrigued and looking forward to see how the rest of the series plays out! I'm also definitely interested to go back and read some of his earlier books that get at Adler's and Dwyer's backstories.
Overall, this is nothing life-changing, but a really solid thriller, and I'd definitely recommend.
I also really liked how Adler's personal life was interspersed into the story. It was just enough to make her human, but didn't take away from the primary plot. It was enough to keep me intrigued and looking forward to see how the rest of the series plays out! I'm also definitely interested to go back and read some of his earlier books that get at Adler's and Dwyer's backstories.
Overall, this is nothing life-changing, but a really solid thriller, and I'd definitely recommend.
June 22, 2021
Thank you to NetGalley for an advanced copy in return for my honest review. Tell Me the Truth is available June, 22, 2021!
After a work trip, Noel comes home to a quiet house only to find his wife covered in their daughters blood. Someone murdered their eighteen year old, Jennifer but the pieces aren't adding up. Will the family pull together to share what they know with the police or will they remained tight lipped to save themselves?
This was a good read. The author does a great job of keeping the storyline interesting - introducing new suspects and new twists all throughout the book. I saw parts of the ending coming, but some parts were a total shock. This was a hard one to put down and finished it in about 2 sittings. Be sure to grab yourself a copy!
After a work trip, Noel comes home to a quiet house only to find his wife covered in their daughters blood. Someone murdered their eighteen year old, Jennifer but the pieces aren't adding up. Will the family pull together to share what they know with the police or will they remained tight lipped to save themselves?
This was a good read. The author does a great job of keeping the storyline interesting - introducing new suspects and new twists all throughout the book. I saw parts of the ending coming, but some parts were a total shock. This was a hard one to put down and finished it in about 2 sittings. Be sure to grab yourself a copy!
February 26, 2021
This was the second book in a detective series. I was admittedly not a fan of the first book in the series but was intrigued enough by the synopsis to give this one a chance. I’m so happy I decided to give this series another chance! This second installment was a huge improvement and I loved the case! This centered around the murder of a young girl, on the cusp of leaving for college. There were many twists and turns and at some point in the book, I suspected everyone. The conclusion was fast paced and shocking. I’m looking forward to reading more in this series! My thanks to the publisher for the advance reader in exchange for honest review.
September 2, 2021
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley.
2.5 * rounded down. I have mixed feelings about this book: it certainly kept me guessing, but by the end there had been almost too many twists and turns. I skipped all the sections which harked back to the first instalment in this series and all the chapters about Adler's twins' birthday party and the trips to the party store and whether they would get a puppy and how the daughter broke her arm etc etc. Once I had started skipping those I found myself skimming most of the rest. So the plot itself was quite good, the rest not so much.
2.5 * rounded down. I have mixed feelings about this book: it certainly kept me guessing, but by the end there had been almost too many twists and turns. I skipped all the sections which harked back to the first instalment in this series and all the chapters about Adler's twins' birthday party and the trips to the party store and whether they would get a puppy and how the daughter broke her arm etc etc. Once I had started skipping those I found myself skimming most of the rest. So the plot itself was quite good, the rest not so much.
August 10, 2021
Haven't read the first Adler and Dwyer novel, but that's not essential.
Susan Adler and Liam Dwyer get asked to assist the local police investigating the death of 18 year old Jenny Moore.
This is a totally addictive crime thriller with so many surprises in the concluding chapters that my head was spinning. Even the one part of the story I guessed, the story spun in a direction that had me thinking "Oh I had that wrong" before twisting back and proving my guess right !
When you think you have this one nailed, you don't. Thoroughly enjoyable read !
Susan Adler and Liam Dwyer get asked to assist the local police investigating the death of 18 year old Jenny Moore.
This is a totally addictive crime thriller with so many surprises in the concluding chapters that my head was spinning. Even the one part of the story I guessed, the story spun in a direction that had me thinking "Oh I had that wrong" before twisting back and proving my guess right !
When you think you have this one nailed, you don't. Thoroughly enjoyable read !
December 30, 2020
An excellent plot with lots of hints and turns to keep the reader guessing. The detectives work well as protagonists, but some of the other character development left me wanting more. I received an advanced digital copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
July 12, 2021
Noel Moore (husband/father, Phoenix Capital, former Lehman Brothers, Syracuse U finance) was up/checking on Mindy Moore (wife/stay at home mother, perfectionist, Syracuse; accounting), Charlie Moore (son/brother), & Jennifer “Jenny” Moore (18, daughter/sister, Duke U) to see if they were safe/sound.
Outside Noel stopped running & crept toward the clearing.
There was blood on Mindy’s face & arms.
Don’t wake the neighbors.
Charlie had woken up with all the commotion in the house.
Noel told him to go back to bed.
NY State police investigator Susan Adler was shopping for the twins’ Casey & Tim’s 7th birthday party.
Dennis (mgr.) asked if he could help.
Sergeant Mel Triston (duty commander) called to let NY State Police Investigator Susan Adler (Cortlandt barracks) & Liam Dwyer (Cortlandt barracks consultant partner) they needed to head up to the Lewisboro Barracks; Jenny Moore (18, daughter/sister) had been murdered.
Noel & Mindy had some explaining to do to Charlie.
Lewisboro, NY. Hillcrest Court. DS Christine Dunes (Lewisboro PD) greeted NY State Police Investigator Adler & Liam at the crime scene.
John Chu (NY State Police lead forensic specialist) was hard at work.
Jenny had been stabbed 3-times.
NY State Police Investigator Adler began the interviews of the remaining Moore family members.
Charlotte Walsh (Noel’s attorney Agnew, Polaris, & Walsh partner) had arrived at the house.
Sidney Krittle (Mindy’s sister) & Father McCall (Saint Mark’s) were present also.
Donna Starr (Channel 12 News reporter) had arrived on the scene as well.
NY State Police Sr. Investigator Jasper Crosby wanted t know how the case was Moore murder case going.
Putnam Hospital 2nd floor. Mindy Moore was asleep & hooked up to the IV bags. Dr. Fields (MD) was attending to her.
The investigation/interviews continue: Anja York (Jennifer’s BFF); Glenn Patrick Baker (Jennifer’s ex-BF, Mobil station); Arthur Breen (Phoenix Capital partner Jennifer’s godfather, former Lehman Brothers); Father McCall; Dr. Emily Nestor (ME); Uriah Sitchel (55+, billionaire, real estate empire, client/partner, Yale U); Maria Hicks (Moores’ housekeeper, mother; twins/boy/girl); Noel Moore (husband); & Charlotte Walsh (Noel’s attorney).
Will Susan & Liam solve the murder mystery & bring someone to justice?
I do not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing free books from publishers & authors. Therefore, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one.
Warning: This book contains descriptive accounts of extremely graphic adult content: violence, or expletive language &/or uncensored sexually explicit material (minor verbal, psychological, emotional, physical & sexual abuse) which is only suitable for mature readers. It may be offensive or have potential adverse psychological effects on the reader. If you are especially sensitive to this type of material, it is strongly advised not to read any further.
An awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very professionally written who-dunnit murder mystery book. It was quite easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a huge description list of unique characters, settings, facts etc. to keep track of. This could also make another great murder mystery movie, or better yet a mini-TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is an extremely easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author Goodreads; MakingConnections; Making Connections discussion group talk; Amazon Digital Services LLC. Kindle Mobi; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
Outside Noel stopped running & crept toward the clearing.
There was blood on Mindy’s face & arms.
Don’t wake the neighbors.
Charlie had woken up with all the commotion in the house.
Noel told him to go back to bed.
NY State police investigator Susan Adler was shopping for the twins’ Casey & Tim’s 7th birthday party.
Dennis (mgr.) asked if he could help.
Sergeant Mel Triston (duty commander) called to let NY State Police Investigator Susan Adler (Cortlandt barracks) & Liam Dwyer (Cortlandt barracks consultant partner) they needed to head up to the Lewisboro Barracks; Jenny Moore (18, daughter/sister) had been murdered.
Noel & Mindy had some explaining to do to Charlie.
Lewisboro, NY. Hillcrest Court. DS Christine Dunes (Lewisboro PD) greeted NY State Police Investigator Adler & Liam at the crime scene.
John Chu (NY State Police lead forensic specialist) was hard at work.
Jenny had been stabbed 3-times.
NY State Police Investigator Adler began the interviews of the remaining Moore family members.
Charlotte Walsh (Noel’s attorney Agnew, Polaris, & Walsh partner) had arrived at the house.
Sidney Krittle (Mindy’s sister) & Father McCall (Saint Mark’s) were present also.
Donna Starr (Channel 12 News reporter) had arrived on the scene as well.
NY State Police Sr. Investigator Jasper Crosby wanted t know how the case was Moore murder case going.
Putnam Hospital 2nd floor. Mindy Moore was asleep & hooked up to the IV bags. Dr. Fields (MD) was attending to her.
The investigation/interviews continue: Anja York (Jennifer’s BFF); Glenn Patrick Baker (Jennifer’s ex-BF, Mobil station); Arthur Breen (Phoenix Capital partner Jennifer’s godfather, former Lehman Brothers); Father McCall; Dr. Emily Nestor (ME); Uriah Sitchel (55+, billionaire, real estate empire, client/partner, Yale U); Maria Hicks (Moores’ housekeeper, mother; twins/boy/girl); Noel Moore (husband); & Charlotte Walsh (Noel’s attorney).
Will Susan & Liam solve the murder mystery & bring someone to justice?
I do not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing free books from publishers & authors. Therefore, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one.
Warning: This book contains descriptive accounts of extremely graphic adult content: violence, or expletive language &/or uncensored sexually explicit material (minor verbal, psychological, emotional, physical & sexual abuse) which is only suitable for mature readers. It may be offensive or have potential adverse psychological effects on the reader. If you are especially sensitive to this type of material, it is strongly advised not to read any further.
An awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very professionally written who-dunnit murder mystery book. It was quite easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a huge description list of unique characters, settings, facts etc. to keep track of. This could also make another great murder mystery movie, or better yet a mini-TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is an extremely easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author Goodreads; MakingConnections; Making Connections discussion group talk; Amazon Digital Services LLC. Kindle Mobi; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
October 16, 2021
Thank you to #NetGalley, #MatthewFarrell, and #Thomas&Mercer for this ARC in exchange for an honest review. This is the second book in the Adler and Dwyer series. And even though it’s described as a stand alone, and it 90% is, at times it’s not. They reference the first book and the Bad Man a lot. And if you haven’t read the first book, or want to read it, after you’ve read this you might as well not as it describes the characters and plot/outcome of the first book. But as far as the book as a whole is concerned, I really loved it! The characters are well developed and you may find yourself cheering for some and annoyed with others. And just when I thought I might have figured it all out, nope. Completely wrong lol. I will read more from this author but definitely in order next time!
June 27, 2024
Imagine this - your daughter is a few weeks away from going to college and leaving the small town your family resides in…until she shows up murdered in the woods behind your home. Now you have a nosy reporter trying to get the “inside scoop” on what was happening behind the closed doors, a wife who has been shocked into silence, and a son who saw things that he can never unsee.
Someone killed her and they must be brought to justice.
Oh I loved this read. There was never a moment where I knew with full confidence who did it. This is one of the best murder mystery books I’ve ever experienced. The plot progression was on point, the characters all served purposes and no one was safe from the investigation. If you need a book that will keep you on your toes, this one is for you!
Someone killed her and they must be brought to justice.
Oh I loved this read. There was never a moment where I knew with full confidence who did it. This is one of the best murder mystery books I’ve ever experienced. The plot progression was on point, the characters all served purposes and no one was safe from the investigation. If you need a book that will keep you on your toes, this one is for you!
December 15, 2021
2.5 Stars - it wasn’t bad but not really anything that spectacular. The secondary characters were pretty one-dimensional and cliche. The storyline at times felt a little bit like an episode of Scooby Doo. This was apparently the second book in a series - lots of references to what happened in the first book. And the ending was way too cheesy.
May 3, 2024
This was my first book by Farrell and I thoroughly enjoyed it cover to cover!! The pacing was fast and the chapters were short. This police procedural thriller had me on my toes, and I was constantly guessing who the killer was (multiple times) throughout this mystery. I loved the high level of suspense and I will definitely be reading more books by this author. Well done!
July 27, 2021
4.5⭐️ The amount of characters at the end for the big reveal were a bit too much, but this book gave me Mare of Easttown mixed with Lisa Gardener vibes and I’m here for it. I didn’t know this was a second in a series, ordering the first one STAT.
August 3, 2021
Kindle Unlimited Audiobook. I almost marked this book lower just because I hate the relationship between Susan and Liam. However, discounting that I really enjoyed all the twists and so many suspects. There needed to be a little more reason for the killer’s actions explained to me, no background that would suggest he would be a killer
August 1, 2021
I won the kindle version of this book in a Good Reads giveaway.
I’m going to start by saying, I don’t read a lot of fiction. I have been a non-fiction-er for as long as I can remember. But this book had me hooked. I had my own theories about who killed Jenny but 1) I was wrong and 2) I was not expecting the twists. I like the story and character development and I enjoyed the shorter chapters, it made it seem like I was reading so much more (all mental lol). I stayed up late to finish it and had to take time to process what happened before I could finally fall asleep. I definitely recommend this book, even if you aren’t really a fiction reader like me! I might be hooked on reading more of these!
I’m going to start by saying, I don’t read a lot of fiction. I have been a non-fiction-er for as long as I can remember. But this book had me hooked. I had my own theories about who killed Jenny but 1) I was wrong and 2) I was not expecting the twists. I like the story and character development and I enjoyed the shorter chapters, it made it seem like I was reading so much more (all mental lol). I stayed up late to finish it and had to take time to process what happened before I could finally fall asleep. I definitely recommend this book, even if you aren’t really a fiction reader like me! I might be hooked on reading more of these!
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