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Garnet McGee #3
The First Time I Hunted
Digging up the past can be deadly…
Garnet McGee is back in Pitchford, wondering what to do with her life now that she’s finished her master’s thesis in psychology. Then she receives a call from the FBI’s Special Agent Singh. A body has been found, and it looks like it’s another victim of the Button Man serial killer.
Using her unpredictable psychic abilities, Garnet sets out to hunt the murderer while trying not to become his next victim. Her investigation takes her into the killer’s dark past and batters her with distressing visions in a hunt that will endanger more lives than just her own.
Meanwhile, Garnet’s attraction to Ryan Jackson, Pitchford’s chief of police, is growing — despite some supernatural opposition — challenging Garnet’s determination never to open herself to heartbreaking loss again.
Garnet McGee is back in Pitchford, wondering what to do with her life now that she’s finished her master’s thesis in psychology. Then she receives a call from the FBI’s Special Agent Singh. A body has been found, and it looks like it’s another victim of the Button Man serial killer.
Using her unpredictable psychic abilities, Garnet sets out to hunt the murderer while trying not to become his next victim. Her investigation takes her into the killer’s dark past and batters her with distressing visions in a hunt that will endanger more lives than just her own.
Meanwhile, Garnet’s attraction to Ryan Jackson, Pitchford’s chief of police, is growing — despite some supernatural opposition — challenging Garnet’s determination never to open herself to heartbreaking loss again.
387 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 25, 2020
15 people are currently reading
136 people want to read
About the author
Jo Macgregor
6 books84 followersWhen not writing, Jo Macgregor is a counselling psychologist in private practice in South Africa. She works mainly with victims of crime and trauma, and brings her twenty years of experience as a therapist to her writing, creating deeper characters and realistic psychological scenarios.
She started her professional life as a high school English teacher and writes young adult fiction under the name Joanne Macgregor. Her psychological non-fiction (self help) is published under the name J. Macgregor.
She writes intelligent novels with all the feels and a twist of humor - fiction for your head, heart and funny bone!
She started her professional life as a high school English teacher and writes young adult fiction under the name Joanne Macgregor. Her psychological non-fiction (self help) is published under the name J. Macgregor.
She writes intelligent novels with all the feels and a twist of humor - fiction for your head, heart and funny bone!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
August 23, 2021
If you are reading this, it means you either are in my friend feed or you have already read the first two books of Garnet's series and you must know about her skills and her entourage.
The first time I hunted is so far my favorite installment. We left the small town to hunt a serial killer that has been operating for twenty years as Garnet keeps learning about her newly acquired ability.
+ The investigation was good, neither overly complicated nor obvious. Every suspect was solid, even if one was more than the others.
+ Garnet's mom is still Garnet's mom. She is a huge liability and Garnet rarely makes the right choices when it comes to her.
+ The romance picked up, fast. It's not a fast burn or anything, but Garnet and Ryan started dating off-screen, between book two and book three.
+ Colby... is still my favorite character. I'm like Garnet, I want to see him finally move on but I'm not ready to let him go.
+ Singh was a total douche, but then again Garnet is no detective and extremely pushy. She was lucky not to get arrested.
And now, I need the next book.
> Romance, but as a subplot
> No cliffhanger but somewhat open-ended
Trigger warning:
Excoriation disorder (I'm skipping those scenes, they make me sick. I am really sorry for anyone who suffers from this condition), abuse, homophobic killer, implied rape.
November 23, 2020
Engaging and unpredictable, Jo Macgregor’s THE FIRST TIME I HUNTED takes us back to the unusual life and talents of Garnet McGee, the young woman who died and came back with special abilities. This time Garnet is caught up in a deadly game of murder, mystery and mayhem and the tenacious heroine proves that, once again she is a force to reckoned with!
Garnet has grown from teen to adult and seems pretty normal in spite of her physic talents and some pretty quirky parents, wo by the way have her back in more ways than one. As a possible love interest comes into her life, can her past let go? Can she trust her heart not to be shattered again?
This time out, she is on the case of the Button Man serial killer, in spite of the lack of cooperation form the FBI and Garnet can’t help but nibble at each clue while attempting to do what the authorities seem unable to accomplish. She is determined to find the monster with the button fetish. What do the buttons left by the victims mean? Will Garnet unravel this murderer’s past without finding herself as another victim?
Moments of quirky humor, a not-so-tough-as-nails heroine and an elusive killer all add up to another fast-paced, completely engaging read from Jo Macgregor!
I received a complimentary ARC edition from Jo Macgregor! This is my honest and voluntary review.
Series: Garnet McGee - Book 3
Publication date : November 26, 2020
Publisher: Jo Macgregor
Genre: Physic Thriller
Print length : 289 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Garnet has grown from teen to adult and seems pretty normal in spite of her physic talents and some pretty quirky parents, wo by the way have her back in more ways than one. As a possible love interest comes into her life, can her past let go? Can she trust her heart not to be shattered again?
This time out, she is on the case of the Button Man serial killer, in spite of the lack of cooperation form the FBI and Garnet can’t help but nibble at each clue while attempting to do what the authorities seem unable to accomplish. She is determined to find the monster with the button fetish. What do the buttons left by the victims mean? Will Garnet unravel this murderer’s past without finding herself as another victim?
Moments of quirky humor, a not-so-tough-as-nails heroine and an elusive killer all add up to another fast-paced, completely engaging read from Jo Macgregor!
I received a complimentary ARC edition from Jo Macgregor! This is my honest and voluntary review.
Series: Garnet McGee - Book 3
Publication date : November 26, 2020
Publisher: Jo Macgregor
Genre: Physic Thriller
Print length : 289 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
November 23, 2020
The First Time I Hunted is the third book in Jo Macgregor’s Garnet McGee series, and it’s a wonderful addition to the series. This is a series that needs to be read in order, as you get to watch the characters grow and there are lingering elements throughout that leave you desperate for more.
With the Garnet McGee series, we’re given a combination of elements that I love. The mystery grips, the supernatural is subtle but interesting, and the romance is a slow burn that leaves you wanting more. Each individual element grips by itself, but together they make the story impossible to put down. Once you start, you find yourself turning the pages at a rapid pace to see how everything plays out in the end.
Although I worked out some details of the story, the specifics were great to watch unfold. In fact, with so many elements included, there were plenty of aspects that came as a great surprise. I will say that I found Garnet to be a wee bit naïve at some points, but she’s grown a lot as a character and that made up for the times where I was mentally screaming ‘the answer is right in front of you’.
Without a doubt, The First Time I Hunted is a must-read for fans of thrillers with a slight supernatural twist. This series is highly addictive, and I cannot wait to see what comes next.
With the Garnet McGee series, we’re given a combination of elements that I love. The mystery grips, the supernatural is subtle but interesting, and the romance is a slow burn that leaves you wanting more. Each individual element grips by itself, but together they make the story impossible to put down. Once you start, you find yourself turning the pages at a rapid pace to see how everything plays out in the end.
Although I worked out some details of the story, the specifics were great to watch unfold. In fact, with so many elements included, there were plenty of aspects that came as a great surprise. I will say that I found Garnet to be a wee bit naïve at some points, but she’s grown a lot as a character and that made up for the times where I was mentally screaming ‘the answer is right in front of you’.
Without a doubt, The First Time I Hunted is a must-read for fans of thrillers with a slight supernatural twist. This series is highly addictive, and I cannot wait to see what comes next.
March 25, 2021
All I have to say is, when's book four being published?
November 21, 2020
Having read the other two books in this series, when I realised this was coming out, I sought out the author for an ARC copy so that I could be among the first to read it. It was amazing from the start, Garnet is an amazing and engaging character, the paranormal elements are a refreshing change to the usual parts in this genre, and I adored the thriller element to the story. I was hooked from the first page, and ended up reading it in two sittings only because I had to sleep at some point. I adore MacGregor's story telling and love how she creates a world and characters. Overall an amazing third book in a series, and one that I will be very happy to follow this series to its completion. An amazing read and one I recommend to all those who love paranormal with a mystery twisted in the words!
November 22, 2020
I do so love this series. This third book did not disappoint and yet again, I read it in one sitting. The complex Garnet is learning to trust her talent but as her confidence increases, so do the risks she takes. She's collected a motley crew of people around her with some new additions, and this adds to the enjoyment as each person is a part of the jigsaw puzzle that makes up this quirky character.
The pace of action is quick without feeling rushed. There is also a gritty realism in the behaviour patterns of Garnet and that of the serial killer.
This is a great combination of crime and paranormal without either leaning too heavily on the reader.
Bring on the next one!
The pace of action is quick without feeling rushed. There is also a gritty realism in the behaviour patterns of Garnet and that of the serial killer.
This is a great combination of crime and paranormal without either leaning too heavily on the reader.
Bring on the next one!
November 22, 2020
So I had it right but got it so very wrong. The thriller is just intense and scary enough.
I love the way Garnet is so human although I don't like the way she goes about beating herself up.
Very well written.
I love the way Garnet is so human although I don't like the way she goes about beating herself up.
Very well written.
April 12, 2023
These special literary offerings are getting shorter, I’m sure, or else it’s because they’re so good I have to devour them in one sitting (just in case the Rapture occurs before I can reach the conclusion)….
Sheer escapist nonsense, of course, but of the blue ribbon variety. Garnet McGee is feisty, funny, furiously intelligent, in touch with her definitely dead first boyfriend and prone to killing herself; she spends more time falling in, on, through and off stuff than any heroine I’ve ever read about. Her survival rate is, so far, excellent.
(I have some serious doubts about her dad, though).
Sheer escapist nonsense, of course, but of the blue ribbon variety. Garnet McGee is feisty, funny, furiously intelligent, in touch with her definitely dead first boyfriend and prone to killing herself; she spends more time falling in, on, through and off stuff than any heroine I’ve ever read about. Her survival rate is, so far, excellent.
(I have some serious doubts about her dad, though).
June 22, 2021
Absolutely wow
I’ve now finished all three books…awesome reading! It’s a true keeper and will be keeping to someday read it again.
I’ve now finished all three books…awesome reading! It’s a true keeper and will be keeping to someday read it again.
July 23, 2021
Awesome Book
I really love the characters in this book, some more than others. I’m glad Cody is still watching over Garnet. Now if she would only listen! Can’t wait for the next book.
I really love the characters in this book, some more than others. I’m glad Cody is still watching over Garnet. Now if she would only listen! Can’t wait for the next book.
December 14, 2022
I think this one is the best of the series! I can't wait for the next one to come out in paperback. This is one of those books that I was sad to finish but also couldn't put down. First book in a long time, maybe ever, that I've read in an airport and after a long day of travel in my hotel.
August 21, 2021
Love it
Can’t wait for the next one. A little fun, a little romance and of course serial killers. Who can ask for more?
Can’t wait for the next one. A little fun, a little romance and of course serial killers. Who can ask for more?
December 29, 2021
Good characters
I really have enjoyed this book series. The dialogue and characters are believable and enjoyable. Easy to read and hard to put down. Thanks!
I really have enjoyed this book series. The dialogue and characters are believable and enjoyable. Easy to read and hard to put down. Thanks!
November 24, 2020
(Read my review to Book 1, The First Time I Died, HERE: https://www.facebook.com/EyesOpenRevi... )
(Read my review to Book 2, The First Time I Fell, HERE: https://www.facebook.com/EyesOpenRevi... )
I’m just going to start off by saying that I read about 80% of this book in a single day. So take with that what you will!
The Garnet McGee series is, in my opinion, a greatly underrated group of mystery books. Of course, most indie books are underrated in general, since they’re usually lesser known than their traditionally-published competitors. But, whether you’re an avid mystery fan OR you feel a little burnt out by the genre, I think this series is such a refreshing contribution. The mystery is intriguing, the characters likable — if you looked up the term “hidden gem” in the dictionary, the Garnet McGee series would be right there aside it.
ALSO — of the three books that are out in the series so far, I think that the killer in The First Time I Hunted is the one that sounds the most like a real criminal you would see featured on Investigation Discovery. Not only was the serial killer written realistically as hell, but so were the victims and their profiles. Seriously, I feel like I just finished watching a true crime documentary on TV.
That said, while I’m not going to spoil who the killer is or the backstory, I do feel like I need to give a little word of warning to my LGBT+ followers. While I think it’s incredible how realistically this villain was written, homophobia was a MAJOR motive in why they did what they did. Of course, I highly recommend this book, and this mystery, to readers who are up for it — but please stay safe! The villain does sound a whole lot like a few real-life killers who targeted LGBT+ people.
(In particular, the serial killer Herb Baumeister comes to mind. Of course, that could just be because his home, the site of his crimes, is ten minutes from where I live. Lovely! 😂)
Every single one of the characters has the same charm from previous books. I, personally, particularly enjoy Garnet’s mother — she’s eccentric as hell and is an absolute *delight* to read. I think the role she ended up playing was interesting, and definitely a neat twist!
If there’s one bit of criticism I have for the plot, it might be how Garnet’s father was picked up as a suspect, then dropped two minutes later. I understand the plot points that went into it, and how Garnet’s relationship with the FBI investigators went into it, but it just kinda feels like a branch-off plot point that never really went anywhere. And, I don’t really understand the motive behind it — I mean, if an interest in true crime alone is a reason to look into someone for questioning for a crime they otherwise have no connection to, then my mom and I would be positively *screwed,* lmao.
Just gonna... casually delete my search history, be right back. :D
But, overall, I enjoyed this installment quite a lot, as I have with the other books in this series! I think that, so far, The First Time I Hunted was definitely my favorite in Garnet’s series, and I highly, HIGHLY recommend it to any mystery or crime lover!
(Read my review to Book 2, The First Time I Fell, HERE: https://www.facebook.com/EyesOpenRevi... )
I’m just going to start off by saying that I read about 80% of this book in a single day. So take with that what you will!
The Garnet McGee series is, in my opinion, a greatly underrated group of mystery books. Of course, most indie books are underrated in general, since they’re usually lesser known than their traditionally-published competitors. But, whether you’re an avid mystery fan OR you feel a little burnt out by the genre, I think this series is such a refreshing contribution. The mystery is intriguing, the characters likable — if you looked up the term “hidden gem” in the dictionary, the Garnet McGee series would be right there aside it.
ALSO — of the three books that are out in the series so far, I think that the killer in The First Time I Hunted is the one that sounds the most like a real criminal you would see featured on Investigation Discovery. Not only was the serial killer written realistically as hell, but so were the victims and their profiles. Seriously, I feel like I just finished watching a true crime documentary on TV.
That said, while I’m not going to spoil who the killer is or the backstory, I do feel like I need to give a little word of warning to my LGBT+ followers. While I think it’s incredible how realistically this villain was written, homophobia was a MAJOR motive in why they did what they did. Of course, I highly recommend this book, and this mystery, to readers who are up for it — but please stay safe! The villain does sound a whole lot like a few real-life killers who targeted LGBT+ people.
(In particular, the serial killer Herb Baumeister comes to mind. Of course, that could just be because his home, the site of his crimes, is ten minutes from where I live. Lovely! 😂)
Every single one of the characters has the same charm from previous books. I, personally, particularly enjoy Garnet’s mother — she’s eccentric as hell and is an absolute *delight* to read. I think the role she ended up playing was interesting, and definitely a neat twist!
If there’s one bit of criticism I have for the plot, it might be how Garnet’s father was picked up as a suspect, then dropped two minutes later. I understand the plot points that went into it, and how Garnet’s relationship with the FBI investigators went into it, but it just kinda feels like a branch-off plot point that never really went anywhere. And, I don’t really understand the motive behind it — I mean, if an interest in true crime alone is a reason to look into someone for questioning for a crime they otherwise have no connection to, then my mom and I would be positively *screwed,* lmao.
Just gonna... casually delete my search history, be right back. :D
But, overall, I enjoyed this installment quite a lot, as I have with the other books in this series! I think that, so far, The First Time I Hunted was definitely my favorite in Garnet’s series, and I highly, HIGHLY recommend it to any mystery or crime lover!
November 24, 2020
Following Garnet's grizzly discovery in book 2, The First Time I Hunted *is* darker and Garnet's visions are disturbing, but the tone and tenor and overall flow are much the same as both previous books in the series. The characters are still much the same as they were the last time we encountered them, including the spectral Cody - but following the completion of her psychology Masters, Garnet has some grown up decisions to make - both professionally and personally.
I loved the turn of phrase that Jo Macgregor uses from Garnet's point of view. It's wryly funny and unique, and I found that I couldn't skim or scan any passages lest I miss out on the clever verbal footwork. The chapters are short and easily readable without being too short, and the chapter headings - dates - are singularly apt, without anything away, and work well to increase the feeling of suspense.
That suspense, of course, all builds up to the climax. As far as solutions went, I had guessed correctly, and so did Garnet...sort of. And I'll leave off on that equivocal note...
Taken altogether, I really enjoyed this and would encourage other readers to dive in. If you've enjoyed the series so far, this book is - if anything - even better, and you have a treat in store here!
I loved the turn of phrase that Jo Macgregor uses from Garnet's point of view. It's wryly funny and unique, and I found that I couldn't skim or scan any passages lest I miss out on the clever verbal footwork. The chapters are short and easily readable without being too short, and the chapter headings - dates - are singularly apt, without anything away, and work well to increase the feeling of suspense.
That suspense, of course, all builds up to the climax. As far as solutions went, I had guessed correctly, and so did Garnet...sort of. And I'll leave off on that equivocal note...
Taken altogether, I really enjoyed this and would encourage other readers to dive in. If you've enjoyed the series so far, this book is - if anything - even better, and you have a treat in store here!
December 3, 2020
I mean what a book! I don't even know how to put into words how fantastic I really felt this book was, and the series!
I look at the Garnet McGee series as a little like Nancy Drew but with a woo-woo spin on it, which is incredibly delightful and fun for me. It's one of the reasons I enjoyed this series so much.
In book three Garnet gets to evolve a little more as she begins to learn about her own gifts. I didn't think the series could get better but book 3 really brings it to the table and completes the series beautifully.
I also cannot help but hope there will be more books in this series *hint hint*
Anyone who enjoys a good mystery novel such as Nancy Drew (and a lot of you ladies know you did enjoy that when you were younger) will enjoy this series, and this book!
I look at the Garnet McGee series as a little like Nancy Drew but with a woo-woo spin on it, which is incredibly delightful and fun for me. It's one of the reasons I enjoyed this series so much.
In book three Garnet gets to evolve a little more as she begins to learn about her own gifts. I didn't think the series could get better but book 3 really brings it to the table and completes the series beautifully.
I also cannot help but hope there will be more books in this series *hint hint*
Anyone who enjoys a good mystery novel such as Nancy Drew (and a lot of you ladies know you did enjoy that when you were younger) will enjoy this series, and this book!
December 4, 2020
The First Time I Hunted is the third in the Garnet McGee series by Jo Macgregor. A psychological thriller, Hunted expands both characters and setting. In this third installment, Garnet again becomes embroiled in the middle of a mystery with time running out to catch the killer.
The book excels in suspenseful scenes, keeping the reader on the edge of their seat. The humor in the novel is also excellent. The writing is very well done. The descriptions sparkle with details, and the settings are vividly detailed.
The First Time I Hunted sets a new standard of where Macgregor could go if she continues to write more Garnet McGee adventures. I hope she will.
The book excels in suspenseful scenes, keeping the reader on the edge of their seat. The humor in the novel is also excellent. The writing is very well done. The descriptions sparkle with details, and the settings are vividly detailed.
The First Time I Hunted sets a new standard of where Macgregor could go if she continues to write more Garnet McGee adventures. I hope she will.
December 1, 2020
I've almost never read past the second book in a series. I find that the storyline tends to become stale. This series is the complete opposite. Every book is better than the last. I am enjoying the natural progression and development of the characters and I am really looking forward to the next installment. I highly recommend this book if you do not need sleep nor have to wake up early to go to work. (you have been warned) 😊
November 23, 2020
Oh my Garnet, you've done it again!! I absolutely adore Garnet, she's such a real and well written character. As always this leaves me wanting more and I cannot wait to see what Garnet gets herself into next, especially where Ryan is concerned.
November 29, 2020
Amazing Series!
I don’t usually read this genre because I like stories without darkness. But Jo Macgregor is a great writer. When I start reading, the story comes to life in my mind and I feel like a virtual part of it. I have enjoyed reading all three books in this series.
I don’t usually read this genre because I like stories without darkness. But Jo Macgregor is a great writer. When I start reading, the story comes to life in my mind and I feel like a virtual part of it. I have enjoyed reading all three books in this series.
December 20, 2020
This is book 3 in the Garnet McGee series. For one this series book covers are amazing. The characters are interesting and the setting is perfect.
This series is so good. You get some paranormal feels, some romance, some mystery, suspense. Definitely kept me entertained. Im glad Colby is still around. Love Garnet and her family. And so glad theirs a “chief”. Can’t wait to see what red sky warning is coming next. Series best read in order.
This series is so good. You get some paranormal feels, some romance, some mystery, suspense. Definitely kept me entertained. Im glad Colby is still around. Love Garnet and her family. And so glad theirs a “chief”. Can’t wait to see what red sky warning is coming next. Series best read in order.
November 26, 2020
Fantastic book full of suspense and keeps you interested all the way through to the end
December 2, 2020
There is more of everything in book 3. More drama, more magic and lots more romance.
January 5, 2021
This is the first mystery/thriller to give me the creeps. I call that a success. So far its my favorite from the series. I love Garnets relationship with Chief.
December 30, 2020
I love all three books in this series, and I am ready for the fourth!
December 9, 2020
Ok so I read this on my phone in between life, which seems to be a trend for this Author’s titles!
I love Garnet. I can relate to her so much and I think that’s why I love this series. That and her ridiculous mother whom is also so endearing.
A better review will come a bit later when it’s not midnight and my brain is more functional!
I love Garnet. I can relate to her so much and I think that’s why I love this series. That and her ridiculous mother whom is also so endearing.
A better review will come a bit later when it’s not midnight and my brain is more functional!
November 30, 2020
A very captivating book, kept me turning pages. A lot of red herrings too.
But I didn't enjoy much Garnet's mother who seems to have gone off the deep end with her esoteric.
Also, Garnet has a master in psychology but I feel I knew more than her just from watching CSI or real news. Even if criminology isn't her field of expertise, she was sometimes too naïve for my liking.
But well written murder hunt story with lots of insights into the psychic of a serial killer.
But I didn't enjoy much Garnet's mother who seems to have gone off the deep end with her esoteric.
Also, Garnet has a master in psychology but I feel I knew more than her just from watching CSI or real news. Even if criminology isn't her field of expertise, she was sometimes too naïve for my liking.
But well written murder hunt story with lots of insights into the psychic of a serial killer.
April 14, 2023
I have read all 3 books and now I am reading #4. I love this series.
July 14, 2021
Wow!
Outrageously wonderful series. I read each book of this series with a growing eagerness to get to the end of this story. I just had to finish it! It knocked my socks off. I simply did not expect this ending! It was powerful and a bit to the gut. You all have to read this series.
Outrageously wonderful series. I read each book of this series with a growing eagerness to get to the end of this story. I just had to finish it! It knocked my socks off. I simply did not expect this ending! It was powerful and a bit to the gut. You all have to read this series.
October 11, 2022
Heart bounding, adrenaline rush of a book that i absolutely loved!! The worst part about this book though is when it ended.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews