Lies That Bind

Logan McKenna #6

by Valerie Davisson

A violent murder during the rumrunning days of Prohibition set two families on very different paths. In 2020, when a Collins is killed and an Ellis is accused, Logan has to dig through the tangle of secrets and lies binding the two families together to uncover the truth before the killer takes another life. . .

Things are changing for Logan McKenna. She’s buying a fixer-upper with Ben on the Oregon coast and is about to meet her half-sister, Olivia, who, until last year, she didn’t know existed. Both acts require huge leaps of faith, something Logan is often short on. But the remodel is going smoothly and Logan begins to relax and even look forward to the upcoming visit with Olivia.

Before Logan gets the chance to meet her new sibling, a young woman, Charlotte ‘Charlie’ Collins, is found dead—drowned in the pool of The Collins, her family’s landmark Depoe Bay hotel.

Was this a horrible accident, or murder? Emerging details are murky. Logan and Olivia soon find themselves inexorably drawn into what is starting to look like a homicide investigation. With no hard evidence, the police are focusing solely on Wade Ellis, Charlie's fiance, who had means and opportunity, and according to at least one person, plenty of motive and absolutely no alibi.

In Lies That Bind, Davisson explores themes of mental illness, jealousy, shame, and guilt as well as the redeeming power of love, trust and community. What makes a murderer? Are killers born or bred? One thing’s for certain, secrets never stay that way and only love can heal.

Genres: Crime, Fiction, Thriller, Ebooks, Mystery

280 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 11, 2020

About the author

A book addict from way back, I cut my teeth on fairy tales and C.S. Lewis, skipping class to hang out in the library. Later, I moved on to Tolkein and Twain. During graduate school, I only had time to read Anthropology books, so it wasn't until later I got hooked on Mysteries and Thrillers. Michael Conneally's Bosch, Sue Grafton's Kinsey Milhone, C.J. Box, J.A. Jance's Sheriff Brady, and Nevada Barr's Anna Pigeon. I don't know about you, but I burned through those books as fast as I could discover a new series. Still do!

But it wasn't until I had a serious back injury that I realized how important well-written stories were to me. I could get lost in a good book. They kept my mind off of things over which I had not control. And even though they were pure fiction, the ones with strong, female protagonists inspired me to overcome my own hurdles in life. I realized I not only enjoyed reading them, but I wanted to write books like that.

Somewhere during that time, the character of Logan McKenna began to take shape, eventually turning into my first book of the Logan series, SHATTERED. With 8 books and a novella prequel in the series so far, I am grateful readers have enjoyed getting to know Logan and friends and keep buying the books, allowing me to do what I love. I am rarely happier than when I am at my keyboard, headphones clamped on my head, listening to ocean waves crashing on rocks (my go-to white noise), allowing the story to flow out of my fingertips.

I also love to hear from readers. It may take a while due to my research and writing schedule, but I will answer!

My husband and I live in our dream forest cottage on the Oregon coast with our dog, Finn. We have six children and numerous grandchildren, grand dogs and a few grand cats. When I'm not at the computer, I'm usually out walking Finn or in the kitchen trying new recipes.

Reviews

[Jenni · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lies That Bind: A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 6 (Logan McKenna Series) is a crime story that takes us through time in flashbacks from Prohibition to current times. It is full of lies and deceit, secrets and murder. This intriguing read once again finds Logan in the midst of trouble in this multi layered mystery. This series continues to get better with each book and this one is my favourite so far. It definitely packs a punch and keeps you on your toes.

[Ember Daley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh Logan. Again trying to do something with her life and she finds herself in a pickle yet again. I love seeing the progress of her and Ben together, and the addition of her sister was nice. I really enjoy this series!!

[diannscollins]

Great Story

The books in the Logan McKenna series never disappoint. This story was about family relationships over generations of time. A lot of evil and greed caused a lot of pain to many people. Logan was intertwined with all the drama and needed to solve the family crimes.

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Stars

Lies That Bind (A Logan McKenna Mystery Book #6).
When a tragedy leads Logan to a tangled web of secrets and lies- things get quite tense, and intriguing. She is going to have to dig through the past, and untangle the truth from the lies, to get to the bottom of it all.
This latest instalment of the Logan McKenna Mystery series by Valerie Davisson is definitely my favourite, so far.
Wonder what Ms. Davisson has in store for us next?

Thank you, Valerie Davisson!

[Jenni · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lies That Bind: A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 6 (Logan McKenna Series) is a crime story that takes us through time in flashbacks from Prohibition to current times. It is full of lies and deceit, secrets and murder. This intriguing read once again finds Logan in the midst of trouble in this multi layered mystery. This series continues to get better with each book and this one is my favourite so far. It definitely packs a punch and keeps you on your toes.

[Danielle Dando · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really need to stop jumping into series halfway through, I mean I’ve come into this way down the trail and can’t see the wood for the trees. I couldn’t work out how much of the story was new information and how much of it was just building on what had already been put in place in previous books. If all of it was new then its way too much, system overload and all that. Still, I’m going to take a stab in the dark and say that, considering this the sixth book in the series, a lot of the stuff had been set up in previous instalments and relied on the reader being a little smarter than me and actually reading the previous books. Don’t worry I’ll get around to it.
All of this aside I am intrigued. I really like the writing style. Davisson uses short snappy sentences throughout that are dropped in here and there that for some reason I just love, it gives the whole story this clipped, crisp feel that makes me think of law and order, you know the doo’s between scenes? Either way, I was hooked from the prologue and did not put it down till I’d come to the end of the white-knuckle ride and asked my husband, a little breathless, to make me a brew to let it all sink in. I will say that, as previously mentioned, I would have preferred to read the other books in the series before reading this one, but I don’t think this little fact stopped me from enjoying this book, in fact, I think it was pretty awesome. So, while I recommend reading the others, this bad boy can stand on its own. Should definitely give this a read.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having read the previous books in the ‘Logan McKenna Series’ and enjoyed them I was looking forward to this novel and was not disappointed. I personally think that the series has just got better and better. We are back with our heroine Logan McKenna, who along with Ben is buying a fixer-upper on the Oregon coast. Logan and her half-sister, Olivia who she has never met before investigate when Charlotte ‘Charlie’ Collins is found drowned in the pool of her family’s Depoe Bay hotel, ‘The Collins’. The police focus their investigation on Wade Ellis, Charlie's fiancé who had both means and opportunity along with motive and no alibi. However, as Logan starts to dig she uncovers secrets and lies that bind the Collins and Ellis families together. Logan needs to uncover the truth before the murderer kills again. As usual I was hooked from page one by this page turner of a novel. The storyline flows well and the plot has plenty going on in it to keep the reader happily turning the pages. Logan is a great main character who really brings the story together and I liked the new addition of her half sister Olivia and the dynamic between the two of them bought another element to the story. The author has away of bringing both the characters and the setting alive through her detailed narrative which made me feel immersed in the story. Addressing the themes of mental illness gave more depth and realism to the story. I was gripped until the last page and I look forward to the next book in the series.

[Jaimie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the sixth book to the Logan McKenna series and let me tell you that these books just get better and better. You follow Logan throughout many ups and downs in her life. You get a glimpse of quite a few things along the way too! Logan just seems to be followed by murder mysteries! In this book Logan and Ben have bought a fixer upper (just like her last place) on the Oregon Coast. It's so neat because this home was owned by a family since the prohibition days!! So many hidden treasures and secrets to be found! Things being in surface after someone is found dead in the Collins Hotel pool. Of course, poor Logan finds herself immersed into yet another mystery. Was this accident or murder?!?! She again finds herself in danger, but things are strange. Maybe she's cursed! Never a dull moment as she investigates the death, meets her new half-sister, and deals with the house with Ben!! And all at once! Whew! Craziness! You CAN read all the books to this set (so far) as standalones, BUT I really suggest that you just read them all in order! I read the 8th one first and it didn't hurt, but you will miss the natural flow of the books and all the growth throughout for each of the the wonderful characters. I can't wait to see what Logan will be up to in the next few books. I'm a little sad that I'm getting close to the end of the series :(

[Laura Furuta · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lies That Bind (Logan McKenna Series Book 6)
By Valerie Davisson
5 out of 5 stars

I loved reading the book Lies That Bind (Logan McKenna Series Book 6) by Valerie Davisson. It is a story that includes mystery and danger. This book in the series has Logan McKenna meeting her half-sister Olivia as well as them both pulled into the death of a young woman. Was it an accident or murder? The story had me turning pages wondering what was going to happen next. I loved the introduction of Logan’s half-sister Olivia. Logan was unsure of how she would feel about Olivia and it caused her to wonder about how they would get along. Read this book to find out if they find common ground. There are many twists and turns in this story that I didn’t see coming. There are also secrets revealed. Logan is a strong, independent, and intelligent woman who knows how to take care of herself and steps up to help others when needed. This series is a delight to read and each book that I read is better than the last. The author does an amazing job of making both the story and the characters come alive. Don’t miss out on an exciting and entertaining story that you won’t want to put down until the final page. I highly recommend reading it.

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lies That Bind
A Logan McKenna Mystery
Book 6
By Valerie Davisson
☆☆☆☆☆
This is a full length novel, with a setting in crime. Welcome back Logan McKenna as she enters another case in this the 6th book in the series.

Logan McKenna has bought her fixer - upper home, with Ben. Set along the coast of Oregon. Things change when she finds out she has a half sister. Which she will be meeting for the first time. Olivia has always had both mom and dad, something Logan did not have. Logan also disagrees with running the family Depoe Bay Hotel. But her life of being a homicide investigation, is something you could say she finds interesting. Who, What and Where will this story lead you? Will Logan find the one out killing people? Read on my fellow readers.

Valerie Davisson has written this page turner. She keeps you involved and pulling for her characters. She will also touch on mental illness, shame, joy, trust and Love. You can't help but pull for Logan to get this Crime solved. Hang on readers! Get out the blanket, chocolate, tissue and wine, you're going to need them. Valerie Davisson keeps her readers reading. I am so happy to read this series, and they keep you coming back for more.Well done Valerie Davisson! Well Done!

[Shea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! My favorite offering of the series so far! Logan and Ben have decided to buy a fixer upper house in Oregon. Life has settled comfortably for Logan and she is finding happiness, peace and success. She also has discovered she has a half-sister she only recently learned of, and has plans to meet and build a relationship with her. In the midst of all that, as usual, Logan finds lots of mysteries, interesting tidbits and a murder case to work on. Once Logan starts digging and investigating, will Olivia help her or hinder her progress?

I don't want to give too much away, these books are such a true joy to read and part of it is how there is always something to learn, and So. Much. Detail. Not in an overwhelming way, you almost don't even notice as you're reading, as it doesn't take away from the story in the least - it adds texture and depth.

All Logan McKenna novels are great as stand alone books, but if you start at the beginning and ride along with Logan as she grows and develops, it's really a gift to yourself. The information about mental health, generational trauma, and healing (or not) from it is really amazing. Such an outstanding series!

[Kerry Baker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lies that Bind by Valerie Davisson is the sixth book in the Logan McKenna mystery series. This book could be read on its own however I would say that ideally you should read them in order as the series follows the same characters. Reading them out of order would, for me, lose a lot of the build up and fantastic character development.
This series honestly just keeps getting better and better. Each time I read a book I think that surely the author can’t beat it and yet each time she does just that. I loved the intrigue and the classic tale you get with this book. It was a gripping story and I found the whole book to be edgy and exciting.
I love getting back into Logan and her life each time with these books. I don’t think I could ever get bored of her character! The author really has done an amazing job of creating lasting connections with the characters and this book just highlights that even more.
The Lies That Bind has to be my favourite of the series so far and I am really hoping we get to see more from this series.

[Angela Shirley · Rating 4 out of 5]

When your life is finally falling into place, is it too good to be true.

Logan is finally getting her life in order, first Ben then they decide to buy a house and looking into fixing it up but when another murder happens guess whos in the middle to try and solve it. Yes Logan.

With her discovering in the last book of her half sister Olivia and worrying about meeting her, they uncover a murder. The Collins and Ellis have had a family feud dating back years but when Charlie is killed and Wade Ellis is the prime suspect things is going to get busy and bring in the family feud of old.

I love this series, from the first book til now you have seen how Logan has grown and overcome her family secrets and find love. This story has the same murder, twists and turns with the added intrigue within the story and as always the book is well written and will have you at the edge of your seat. Logan is a independant, Sassy woman and with the help of the secondary character make this series a great one to read.

I can't wait to get my hands on the next book in the series.

[Bobbi Wagner · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have enjoyed this series from the beginning. This is the sixth book in this series and it just keeps getting better and better. This is a well developed story that has details that bring the story to life. The characters are connectable and kept me reading to the end. This is a story about secrets, lies and murder. Logan is back in another engaging story. There is much going on with Logan. She buys a house that needs work, she finds out that she has a half sister and a young woman is murdered. Logan and her half sister find themselves in the middle of an murder investigation. The police are focused on one person but just because it looks like he did it, will the truth prove otherwise? There are a couple of twists and turns that made me want to know what happened next. I really enjoy Logan’s character. She is always finding herself in the middle of something. This is a great story that is easy to read and I highly recommend it.

[Kerry carr · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the sixth book in the Logan Mckenna Series. I have enjoyed all the books in the series so far and this one is just as good. I love Logan's character all she wants is a peaceful life but she kept finding herself in the middle of murder and mystery at every turn. These books keep you gripped and guessing at every turn.

Logan's life is full of complications but when Logan and her half sister get caught up in a murder investigation they need to work together and sort through history to figure out who did it.

In the past there was a horrible murder that leaves two families to go different ways. When one member of the family turns up dead and murder is suspected the number 1 suspect is her fiance who is a member of the other family. Has conflicts in the past caused him to commit murder or was it just a tragic accident.

Logan needs to work through the ties in the past and present to get to the bottom of this mystery.

[Jennifer Wolbeck · Rating 3 out of 5]

Lies That Bind is a murder mystery that spans multiple generations. Set in a small town off the coast of Oregon, the story opens with the death of an heiress to the oldest and most prestigious hotel in the area. Follow Logan McKenna, a newcomer to Oregon, as she and her friends try to make sense of the heiress's death, and Frankie Collins, the founder of The Collins Hotel and family fortune. I enjoyed following the dual narratives of Logan in the 21st century and Frankie's story from the 1930's, and I felt like the novel's structure and concept is executed well enough to provide a good read. However, I preferred Frankie's side of the story, and I found myself reading through Logan's storyline just to get back to reading about the events of the past. I didn't develop any particular attachment to Logan's plot or her character. Overall, Lies That Bind is a good murder mystery that explores the themes of family, death and greed.

[Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lies that Bind is the first book I have read by Valerie Davisson. It is book 6 in the Logan McKenna series, which I didn't know until the end. While it can be read as a stand alone, you probably should read the series. I was really overwhelmed the first 1/4 of the book with all the characters. There is a lot going on, and so so many people. Once I pieced together who was who, and was related, it all started to click. Even still, there is a lot going on in this story, but it all comes together in the end. You just need to stick it out until the end to have the ahhh ha moment. I was impressed with the author's writing style. She had 2 stories going, one from the past, and one current. It seemed 2 very different stories, but then it all came together. The story line is one of jealousy that leads to deadly rage more than once. I recommend this book, and look forward to reading more in the series.

[Mandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lies That Bind is the 6th book in the thrilling Logan McKenna Series. This one finds Logan in Oregon working on the renovation of her and Ben’s newly purchased vacation home. Once again, Logan is thrown into the midst of a homicide investigation. This book is very aptly named as there are so many lies told throughout the book (from the flashbacks of the early 1930s, the flashbacks of the 1970s, along with the present day) that have a lasting effect on those directly and indirectly involved. Reading this, I had many “a-ha" moments as things fell into place in my mind. It was a very exciting read. Valerie Davisson has a wonderful way of writing that allows the reader to become immersed in the story and invested in the characters. The characters are truly unique and diverse; Lies That Bind includes rumrunners, socialites, Southern belles, and a New York City lawyer. Another great book by Valerie Davisson!

[Tausha Treadway · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lies That Bind (Logan McKenna Series Book 6) by Valerie Davisson. I LOVE this series. Its my favorite genre but the books are just great. Valerie Davisson had become one of my favorite authors! This is the continuing story of Logan McKenna and her boyfriend Ben. In this installment they are about to meet Logan's newly found half sister Olivia. Ben and Logan are also remodeling their new home. When the granddaughter of the wealthy owner of the town's luxury Hotel is found dead in the hotel pool the question is brought to light of whether is was a horrible accident or murder. Logan's new found sister Olivia is a attorney from New York so she jumps into the investigation with Logan which causes all kinds of chaos. This book has topics such as Mental Illness, murder, guilt and lots more. Such a good read!

[Sheri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lies That Bind by Valerie Davisson is the sixth book in the Logan McKenna Mystery series. This series gets better with each and every book drawing me in further to Logan's life. This can be read as a standalone but I highly recommend reading them in order. The main focus of each book is individual but there are many underlying storylines and the growth of the characters which really makes this better read in order. This time Logan is meeting her half-sister, Olivia whom she just found out about. Also, Logan is making big changes in her own life. Will Logan be able to balance everything? On top of her personal life, she is drawn into another death, possibly murder. The victim's family has a lot of secrets and has Logan looking at all angles. I really enjoy this series and look forward to reading more from this author in the future.

[Felicia Bates · Rating 4 out of 5]

It still baffles me that I can be six books into a series and still just as invested as I was in book one. I really think that Valerie Davisson knocks it out of the park with the Logan McKenna series and book six, Lies That Bind, is no exception. I have enjoyed watching Logan as she navigates work and life and her overall character progression but what I really enjoy is the subject matter, mental illness, lies etc. woven in each storyline. Lies That Bind is a story that keeps you interested from start to finish. As I am sure I have mentioned in the past, the Logan McKenna series and Lies That Bind can be read as standalone books. I personally have read the series in order and prefer to know the tiny details or connections that may pop up along the way. Regardless, this is a great 4 star read I would definitely recommend. 

[Dawn Daughenbaugh · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Stars
Lies That Bind (Logan McKenna Series Book 6) by Valerie Davisson

Lies That Bind is the sixth book in the Logan McKenna Series and is a Crime/ Thriller that is hard to put down once you start reading. This story is packed with drama, family, secrets, trust, lies and so much more. Logan is back at it again, she’s got a pot going on, she bought a house to fix up, found out she has a half sister, and a young woman is found murdered. Let the adventure begin as Logan and her half sister find themselves right dab in the middle of an investigation. The twists and turns had me turning the pages trying to figure out what was going to happen next. Can Logan get through all the lies and secrets before it’s to late? I highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next. I’m already ready to dive into the next book. As always can’t wait to read more from this Author.

[Robin Rankin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lies That Bind: A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 6 (Logan McKenna Series)

I seem to stick to the same genre once I have found one I like whether it be books or music, I know what I like and have a hard time trying something out of my norm. This book is definitely out of my norm and I throughly enjoyed it.

It was a little hard for me to keep up sometimes since I was not caught up on the series but it ended up making sense to me in the end.

The murder of Charlie Collins was a fascinating mystery for me. Something bugged the back of my brain until all of the information was revealed. Though I was unable to put it all together I was quite close.

I definitely need to go back and read the earlier books and then this one again to see if it's different with the full history.

Definitely recommend reading the book and series.

[Melissa Saxton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another story with Logan finding herself in the middle of an investigation.
Her guy (Ben) bought a vacation home in Oregon and they stumble across details of the murder of charolette collins. This murder has several hidden details they find when starting to renovate and of course Logan has to get to the bottom of what happened.
I really enjoy Logans strong personality she is a fierce woman and no one gets in her way. This story also took on more dimension than usual with the addition of her half sister to the usual cast in her life. Multi generation family drama and secrets are found and the author Brilliantly shows how trauma can transcend generations and effect people for years to come.
You dont need the other books to understand the plot in this one but I do feel like I understand Logan better with the other books prior.

[Liz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the sixth novel in the Logan McKenna series from Valerie Davisson. I have loved these books from the get go with book one, and every time I pick one up I know it is going to be quite the mind sucking read. I would personally recommend that you read these books in the correct order because the main characters really have some intense character growth and it is much easier to follow along with. In Lies That Bind we find Logan McKenna as she is about to meet her half sister, Olivia. The two of course are also thrown a curveball and we find them thrust in the middle of a murder conspiracy. I couldn’t put this book down and I was so enthralled with it I lost track of time. I cannot wait to see what adventures we will get in upcoming novels!

[Katie Kearney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lies That Bind: A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 6 (Logan McKenna Series) by Valerie Davisson. I can’t get enough of this series. Just when I think it can’t get any better this author proves me so wrong. I love getting lost in the pages of this series. Without fail the storyline and characters draw me into this world created with words and I have the hardest time leaving when I reach the end. I love a story that keeps me guessing and that’s exactly what I know I’ll be getting when I pick up a book from this series and author. The characters are so easy to connect with and I’ve definitely developed a fondness for each one over this series. It’s well written and paced nicely never feeling rushed or lacking anything. I highly recommend this series to anyone and everyone. Five stars all the way!

[Erica Fish · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the sixth book in the Logan McKenna Series and each book is better than the one before it. Valerie Dadvisson has such a vision for her stories. There is never a dull moment. She describes everything in such detail like you were right next to Logan yourself. Logan is expecting happy times ahead. Ben and her have bought a house that needs some tender loving care on the Oregon coast. She is going to be meeting her half-sister, Olivia. Logan has a murder she is going to be investigating while her and Olivia are getting together for the fist time. Will Logan and Oilivia meeting go well? Will Logan and Olivia be on the same page for investigating this murder/accident good? I highly recommend this story to see what happens to the investigation.

[Mandy Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

5/5 Stars

Lies That Bind: A Logan McKenna Mystery #6 (Logan McKenna Series) by Valerie Davisson

Davisson has outdone herself once again. Every Logan McKenna novel gets more interesting as you read. Davisson knows what she's doing when writing these books.

Logan McKenna is buying a vacation house. What she doesn't expect is to be dragged into yet another investigation. Her half sister finds the dead body and now Logan wants to know more.

Logan knows she should stay out of it, but she can't. When the owner of the house shows up then things start getting complicated. The quote I chose for Logan is: “That was nice of you, offering to help Wade like that, but don’t you have a job to get back tobin New York?”

Highly recommended for crime lovers!

[Micalah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Valerie Davisson is a new to me author and I have caught myself picking up a fantastic sounding book in the middle of a series. Lies that bind drew me in with such an interesting premise from the blurb of the book and it definitely delivered. There is lots of mystery, danger, and Intrigue. I’ve come to understand the main character has had a lot of unfortunate events occur but as I haven’t read the other books in the series I cannot fully attest to this. I also feel like could be read as a stand-alone but the characters continue on from the others books also so they are connected a little bit throughout the series. Lies that bind was engaging, definitely kept me guessing, and it kept me on the edge of my seat. Great read.

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lies That Bind is book six in the Logan McKenna storyline. Valerie Davisson brings in different sensitive topics into her writings, and this time is no different. Trauma is sometimes passed from generation to generation, causing a multi-generational curse that is hard to break. Once again, Logan McKenna has found herself in the middle of a murder, and ofcourse she can't keep her hands clean enough to stay out of it all. While in the middle of buying a new home, meeting her half sister, and now a murder, she really has her hands full this time. This was a great addition to the series and the characters continue to evolve and develop. Even after six books in, I am still intrigued with how Logan keeps finding trouble. Let's see what new problems she encounters in the next one.....