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Detective Amanda Steele #1
The Little Grave
Detective Amanda Steele stops just inside the doorway, recognizing the victim’s face instantly. He seems so vulnerable in death; soft, human, even harmless. But she can never forget the evil he has inflicted. Her heart is hammering as she remembers her precious daughter, with her red curls and infectious laugh, and how she was lowered into that little grave…
It’s been five years since Detective Amanda Steele’s life was derailed in the path of an oncoming drunk driver. The small community of Dumfries, Virginia, may have moved on from the tragic deaths of her husband and daughter, but Amanda cannot. When the driver who killed her family is found murdered in a motel room, she can’t keep away from the case.
Fighting her sergeant to be allowed to work an investigation with such a personal connection to her, Amanda is in a race to prove that she can uncover the truth. But the more she digs into the past of the man who destroyed her future, the more shocking discoveries she makes. And when Amanda finds the link between a silver bracelet in his possession and the brutal unsolved murder of a young exotic dancer, she realizes she’s caught up in something darker than she ever imagined and suspects that more girls could be in danger.
But as Amanda edges toward the truth, she gets closer to a secret as personal as it is deadly. Amanda has stumbled upon a dangerous killer, and she must face some terrible truths in order to catch this killer – and save his next victim as she couldn’t save her own daughter…
A gripping, page-turning thriller full of mystery and suspense. Perfect for fans of Rachel Caine, Lisa Regan and Robert Dugoni.
It’s been five years since Detective Amanda Steele’s life was derailed in the path of an oncoming drunk driver. The small community of Dumfries, Virginia, may have moved on from the tragic deaths of her husband and daughter, but Amanda cannot. When the driver who killed her family is found murdered in a motel room, she can’t keep away from the case.
Fighting her sergeant to be allowed to work an investigation with such a personal connection to her, Amanda is in a race to prove that she can uncover the truth. But the more she digs into the past of the man who destroyed her future, the more shocking discoveries she makes. And when Amanda finds the link between a silver bracelet in his possession and the brutal unsolved murder of a young exotic dancer, she realizes she’s caught up in something darker than she ever imagined and suspects that more girls could be in danger.
But as Amanda edges toward the truth, she gets closer to a secret as personal as it is deadly. Amanda has stumbled upon a dangerous killer, and she must face some terrible truths in order to catch this killer – and save his next victim as she couldn’t save her own daughter…
A gripping, page-turning thriller full of mystery and suspense. Perfect for fans of Rachel Caine, Lisa Regan and Robert Dugoni.
324 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 6, 2021
About the author
Carolyn Arnold
84 books1,304 followersCAROLYN ARNOLD is an international bestselling and award-winning author, as well as a speaker, teacher, and inspirational mentor. She has several continuing fiction series and has nearly thirty published books. Her genre diversity offers her readers everything from cozy to hard-boiled mysteries, and thrillers to action adventures. Her crime fiction series have been praised by those in law enforcement as being accurate and entertaining. This led to her adopting the trademark: POLICE PROCEDURALS RESPECTED BY LAW ENFORCEMENT™.
Carolyn was born in a small town and enjoys spending time outdoors, but she also loves the lights of a big city. Grounded by her roots and lifted by her dreams, her overactive imagination insists that she tell her stories. Her intention is to touch the hearts of millions with her books, to entertain, inspire, and empower.
She currently lives near London, Ontario, Canada with her husband and two beagles.
Carolyn was born in a small town and enjoys spending time outdoors, but she also loves the lights of a big city. Grounded by her roots and lifted by her dreams, her overactive imagination insists that she tell her stories. Her intention is to touch the hearts of millions with her books, to entertain, inspire, and empower.
She currently lives near London, Ontario, Canada with her husband and two beagles.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 391 reviews
January 13, 2021
This was a solid start to a new series by Carolyn Arnold, a new author for me. Amanda Steele is a homicide detective with the Prince William County Police Department. Five and a half years ago a tragic car accident robbed her of her husband, daughter and unborn child, as well as leaving her unable to have any more children. Since then she lost her passion for the job, doing it pretty much on autopilot. That all changes when she arrives a motel which reported a dead body only to find the deceased is the drunk driver who killed her family and who was only released from prison a few days ago.
Initially the death looks like a suicide but it soon becomes clear it is murder. For some reason Amanda feels compelled to work this case. Her sergeant reluctantly agrees but forces a new partner on her who will be the lead detective - on paper. Personally I didn’t think this was plausible as she has a clear motive for the murder. Then there was a lot of running around to get her alibi locked in - again, she should not have been on the case. That aside, the new partner works out better than she expected and they soon find potential links to a couple of older homicides, cold cases from five and a half years ago. Then Amanda makes a major discovery. She finds something that people seem to have been looking for and this throws everything up in the air and provides a solid motive for the killings. But wait - there are more twists to come and Amanda’s family will never be the same again.
The plot was good but I found Amanda’s constant grieving repetitive and annoying. I know she lost her family but this is supposed to be a thriller and it bogged the story down. I think the next book will find her being able to move on a bit. There is also still quite some character development to do as, in this book, everyone and everything was seen through the lens of Amanda’s grief. Nevertheless it is a solid effort that should be enjoyed by fans of thrillers and police procedurals. I had no trouble finishing this and really wanted to see how it all fitted together and ended. Thanks to Netgalley, Bookouture and Carolyn Arnold for providing a copy for me to review. My opinions are my own.
Initially the death looks like a suicide but it soon becomes clear it is murder. For some reason Amanda feels compelled to work this case. Her sergeant reluctantly agrees but forces a new partner on her who will be the lead detective - on paper. Personally I didn’t think this was plausible as she has a clear motive for the murder. Then there was a lot of running around to get her alibi locked in - again, she should not have been on the case. That aside, the new partner works out better than she expected and they soon find potential links to a couple of older homicides, cold cases from five and a half years ago. Then Amanda makes a major discovery. She finds something that people seem to have been looking for and this throws everything up in the air and provides a solid motive for the killings. But wait - there are more twists to come and Amanda’s family will never be the same again.
The plot was good but I found Amanda’s constant grieving repetitive and annoying. I know she lost her family but this is supposed to be a thriller and it bogged the story down. I think the next book will find her being able to move on a bit. There is also still quite some character development to do as, in this book, everyone and everything was seen through the lens of Amanda’s grief. Nevertheless it is a solid effort that should be enjoyed by fans of thrillers and police procedurals. I had no trouble finishing this and really wanted to see how it all fitted together and ended. Thanks to Netgalley, Bookouture and Carolyn Arnold for providing a copy for me to review. My opinions are my own.
January 14, 2021
Detective Amanda Steele – a cop still shattered by the death of her husband and child five years previously. The drunk driver who destroyed her life had been in jail, while Amanda tried to drown her memories in booze and drugs, along with constant one-night stands. She was a wreck! But when she was called to the site of a murder, and told it was the man who had killed her family, for some reason, she was determined to take the case.
Amanda’s sergeant was against her involvement, but Amanda wanted to uncover the truth about what happened. The deeper she dug into the investigation, the more secrets she uncovered. There was danger heading her way; heading her family’s way – and more murders linked to the victim – could Amanda right the wrongs and solve the murder?
The Little Grave by Carolyn Arnold was a difficult read for me. In my opinion, I couldn’t work out why Amanda hadn’t been kicked out of the police force. And the continual going over of her grief and pain slowed everything down, didn’t allow for growth or development in the story. I couldn’t connect with Amanda’s character – yes, she faced shocking loss, but I found it hard to offer her sympathy. This one took me some days to read, and was not for me, unfortunately.
With thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Amanda’s sergeant was against her involvement, but Amanda wanted to uncover the truth about what happened. The deeper she dug into the investigation, the more secrets she uncovered. There was danger heading her way; heading her family’s way – and more murders linked to the victim – could Amanda right the wrongs and solve the murder?
The Little Grave by Carolyn Arnold was a difficult read for me. In my opinion, I couldn’t work out why Amanda hadn’t been kicked out of the police force. And the continual going over of her grief and pain slowed everything down, didn’t allow for growth or development in the story. I couldn’t connect with Amanda’s character – yes, she faced shocking loss, but I found it hard to offer her sympathy. This one took me some days to read, and was not for me, unfortunately.
With thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
January 6, 2021
Amanda Steele Book 1
It's been five years since Detective Amanda Steele's life was derailed in the path of an oncoming drunk driver. The small community of Dunfries, Virginia may have moved on from the tragic deaths of her husband and daughter, but Amanda can't. When the driver who killed her family is found murdered in a motel room. Amanda can't keep away from the case.
Amanda Steele is a strong character but she does have a bit of an attitude problem with her rookie partner Detective Trent. The drunk driver who killed her husband and daughter had just been released from prison. Now he's dead. There's plenty of twists to keep you guessing but there's parts that seem to drag out. Amanda also finds herself investigating a couple of cold cases that could be linked. This is a good start to this new police procedural series. I'm looking forward to reading the next installment in the series.
I would like to thank #NetGalley, #Bookouture and the author #CarolynArnold for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
It's been five years since Detective Amanda Steele's life was derailed in the path of an oncoming drunk driver. The small community of Dunfries, Virginia may have moved on from the tragic deaths of her husband and daughter, but Amanda can't. When the driver who killed her family is found murdered in a motel room. Amanda can't keep away from the case.
Amanda Steele is a strong character but she does have a bit of an attitude problem with her rookie partner Detective Trent. The drunk driver who killed her husband and daughter had just been released from prison. Now he's dead. There's plenty of twists to keep you guessing but there's parts that seem to drag out. Amanda also finds herself investigating a couple of cold cases that could be linked. This is a good start to this new police procedural series. I'm looking forward to reading the next installment in the series.
I would like to thank #NetGalley, #Bookouture and the author #CarolynArnold for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 17, 2022
I was having a little difficulty with this book at first, after having just read Back of Beyond, which featured another main character who was self destructive and bent on spiraling out of control. However, Amanda had an entirely different reason for her bad choices and angst so I stuck with it. I am so glad that I did. This was a great story with some great characters and a lot of excitement at the end, along with some redemption. I will gladly continue this series and I hope Trent remains a big part of the series.
January 18, 2021
The Little Grave is the first instalment in the Detective Amanda Steele series, set in and around Dumfries, Virginia. Five and a half years ago on a cool January evening in Atlanta, Georgia, Casey-Anne had just gotten her pole dance underway at Georgia Peaches strip joint when she spots a figure from her past. Rushing home after her set she tenses at every little noise and decides to take a shower. But no sooner had she stepped in, the shower curtain was ripped down to reveal the same guy. He pulls out a gun and asks her for information; the location of something important. But she's too terrified to speak. He shoots and it's lights out. Meanwhile, in Woodbridge, Virginia, it's present-day and Amanda Steele is barely a shadow of her former self. Five and a half year ago she lost her husband of ten years, Kevin, and six-year-old daughter Lindsey at the hands of drunk driver Chad Palmer after she’d urged Kevin to look at a meme on her phone. He'd only been given a meagre sentence for his crime. Stumbling from one day to the next she spends time having anonymous and emotionless sex with strangers and acquiring Xanax from drug dealer ”Freddy” to get her through each day. A detective in the Homicide Unit under the Criminal Investigations Division and Violent Crimes Bureau for the Prince William County Police Department, Amanda gets a call from long-time friend and colleague, Becky Tulson of Dumfries PD.
Becky informs her that Chad Palmer had been released from prison only two days ago, but had just been discovered dead at the dive known as Denver’s Motel. She drives the ten minutes to meet Becky at the scene with her mind whirring. Due to her history with the deceased Becky begs her to leave as it's a conflict of interest, but Amanda is adamant she wants to be there, even if she doesn't know why. She enters room ten and finds 2 empty 1.75ml bottles of whisky and the thirty-seven-year-old Chad sprawled on the bed. But when the medical examiner and forensics teams get involved they quickly determine Chad was murdered and suspicions about Amanda’s involvement arise. What happened, and can Amanda prove her innocence? How are the two cases related? This is a compulsive, compelling and enthralling read and I must admit I was taken by surprise by quite how quickly I became completely riveted by everything that was going on. The cases were both fascinating with many a twist along the way and enough mystery and intrigue to compel you to read through the night. I also loved the fact that Amanda’s tragic personal life is woven in with Chad’s murder as it's a genius method for the author to provide her backstory without it feeling forced. Amanda is a traumatised, broken woman who is certainly existing rather than living and her abrasiveness with colleagues is off-putting but understandable. A scintillating read. Bring on the sequel. Highly recommended.
Becky informs her that Chad Palmer had been released from prison only two days ago, but had just been discovered dead at the dive known as Denver’s Motel. She drives the ten minutes to meet Becky at the scene with her mind whirring. Due to her history with the deceased Becky begs her to leave as it's a conflict of interest, but Amanda is adamant she wants to be there, even if she doesn't know why. She enters room ten and finds 2 empty 1.75ml bottles of whisky and the thirty-seven-year-old Chad sprawled on the bed. But when the medical examiner and forensics teams get involved they quickly determine Chad was murdered and suspicions about Amanda’s involvement arise. What happened, and can Amanda prove her innocence? How are the two cases related? This is a compulsive, compelling and enthralling read and I must admit I was taken by surprise by quite how quickly I became completely riveted by everything that was going on. The cases were both fascinating with many a twist along the way and enough mystery and intrigue to compel you to read through the night. I also loved the fact that Amanda’s tragic personal life is woven in with Chad’s murder as it's a genius method for the author to provide her backstory without it feeling forced. Amanda is a traumatised, broken woman who is certainly existing rather than living and her abrasiveness with colleagues is off-putting but understandable. A scintillating read. Bring on the sequel. Highly recommended.
January 12, 2021
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.There are some authors whose books you just have to read whenever they have a new release, no matter how much your TBR is over flowing. Carolyn Arnold is one such author for me. So, you can imagine my level of enthusiasm when I received a copy for review purposes. 💃💃💃💃
Little Grave, the first book in The Detective Amanda Steele series, proved to be an interesting read with a shocking😲😲😲 conclusion.
The story follows detective Amanda Steele, who lost her husband and her six-year-old daughter and her unborn child in a motor vehicle accident at the hands of a drunk driver. Since then, her life was one roller coaster of one-night stands, drinking and pill popping. How she held it together and keep her job with the Prince William County Police Department was a mystery within itself.
She received a call informing her of the discovery of the dead body of the man responsible for her family’s death. Despite her personal connection to the victim, her sergeant allowed her to be a part of the investigation on the condition she worked with a partner who would be the lead investigator on paper.
I had a great time with this book, which came as no surprise. A well-paced storyline with a narrative steeped in pain and sorrow. Arnold’s ability to engage her readers by keeping them turning the pages while attempting to guess the outcome of the investigation was evident within her latest release.
The more Amanda dug, the bigger the can of worms she unearthed and the more danger she faced. The biggest shocker of all for everyone, including the reader, involved the revelation of the murderer’s identity. Never once did I see this person as being the guilty party.
Amanda, a severely damaged heroine, was on a road to destruction. This case may just be her saving grace despite the conflict of interest. Although I sympathised with her circumstances, I abhorred her behaviour and the way she treated her new partner. She did redeem herself as the story progressed.
Overall, a solid start to the series. If you enjoy police procedural and you are looking for a new series to sink your teeth in, I recommend you picking up a copy of a Little Grave.
This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading
Little Grave, the first book in The Detective Amanda Steele series, proved to be an interesting read with a shocking😲😲😲 conclusion.
The story follows detective Amanda Steele, who lost her husband and her six-year-old daughter and her unborn child in a motor vehicle accident at the hands of a drunk driver. Since then, her life was one roller coaster of one-night stands, drinking and pill popping. How she held it together and keep her job with the Prince William County Police Department was a mystery within itself.
She received a call informing her of the discovery of the dead body of the man responsible for her family’s death. Despite her personal connection to the victim, her sergeant allowed her to be a part of the investigation on the condition she worked with a partner who would be the lead investigator on paper.
I had a great time with this book, which came as no surprise. A well-paced storyline with a narrative steeped in pain and sorrow. Arnold’s ability to engage her readers by keeping them turning the pages while attempting to guess the outcome of the investigation was evident within her latest release.
The more Amanda dug, the bigger the can of worms she unearthed and the more danger she faced. The biggest shocker of all for everyone, including the reader, involved the revelation of the murderer’s identity. Never once did I see this person as being the guilty party.
Amanda, a severely damaged heroine, was on a road to destruction. This case may just be her saving grace despite the conflict of interest. Although I sympathised with her circumstances, I abhorred her behaviour and the way she treated her new partner. She did redeem herself as the story progressed.
Overall, a solid start to the series. If you enjoy police procedural and you are looking for a new series to sink your teeth in, I recommend you picking up a copy of a Little Grave.
This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading
December 13, 2020
Detective Steele wants to solve the murder of the man who killed her husband and daughter, in a tragic accident. But, to do so, she needs to show her alibi to her superior, and it's taking more than 70% of the book to meet the man she spends the hours of the killing. Why??? She is a cop! Why is this taking so looooong? Sorry, but nothing spectacular in this book, just a destroyed cop, more than one death.
Thanks to Netgalley, the publisher and the author for this book.
Thanks to Netgalley, the publisher and the author for this book.
July 9, 2021
It's been five years since Detective Amanda Steele's life was derailed by a drunk driver who killed her husband and daughter. When the driver who killed her family after being released from prison is found murdered in a motel room Amanda feels compelled to work the case.
The Little Grave by Carolyn Arnold is the first book in the Detective Amanda Steele series. A Police procedural, it makes for an interesting read with an unexpected ending.
I would like to thank Bookouture & NetGalley for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest and fair review.
The Little Grave by Carolyn Arnold is the first book in the Detective Amanda Steele series. A Police procedural, it makes for an interesting read with an unexpected ending.
I would like to thank Bookouture & NetGalley for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest and fair review.
January 12, 2021
It's been published!!
It's been five years since the day Detective Amanda Steele lost her whole world because of one person's decision to drive while drunk. When the driver that killed her family is found dead in a motel room she can't stay away from the case, despite the conflict of interest. Not everything is what it appears to be, and Amanda finds herself digging deeper and deeper into the darkness behind a string of murders.
Amanda Steele is a Jessica Jones type, a good cop with baggage and self-medicating tendencies. She's also a strong-willed character, justice-seeking character who you want to see solve everything. This is a great police procedural and had enough action to keep things interesting. This was a fun read from figuring out how everything ties in and encountering the plot twists that take you to the end!
Thank you to Carolyn Arnold, Bookouture, and NetGalley for this ARC!
It's been five years since the day Detective Amanda Steele lost her whole world because of one person's decision to drive while drunk. When the driver that killed her family is found dead in a motel room she can't stay away from the case, despite the conflict of interest. Not everything is what it appears to be, and Amanda finds herself digging deeper and deeper into the darkness behind a string of murders.
Amanda Steele is a Jessica Jones type, a good cop with baggage and self-medicating tendencies. She's also a strong-willed character, justice-seeking character who you want to see solve everything. This is a great police procedural and had enough action to keep things interesting. This was a fun read from figuring out how everything ties in and encountering the plot twists that take you to the end!
Thank you to Carolyn Arnold, Bookouture, and NetGalley for this ARC!
March 22, 2022
Amanda Steel had lost her reason for living. She lost her husband and her child to a drunk driver. Since then, her life has been a series of one night stands and a loss of her desire to follow in her father’s footsteps, becoming a police chief. It takes a sleeping pill for her to get any rest. Becky, her best friend, is her salvation.
When the man responsible for her family’s death ends up dead himself, she is allowed to investigate, under the direction of her new partner, or so they say. That is the only thing I didn’t like about the book. Maybe it would happen in real life, maybe not, but Carolyn Arnold’s books are so realistic, that it stuck with me.
At times I was sure I knew where Carolyn and Amanda were taking me…then there would be a curve in the road, leading me to who knows where. Only Carolyn Arnold knows…until YOU read the story yourself.
Amanda Steele’s past comes back to haunt her, though, in truth, it never left her.
Carolyn Arnold is an amazing author, creating complex stories and characters that keep me reading until the last page is turned. I want to know, I have to know. I do hope Amanda Steele can find the life she is meant to live.
Some serious issues arise, like murder, alcoholism, death, sex trafficking, and Amanda Steele, Carolyn Arnold, and I are on the case.
Two doozies at the end of the story have me salivating, thirsting for the next book.
I voluntarily reviewed and ARC of The LIttle Grave by Carolyn Arnold.
See more at fundinmental
When the man responsible for her family’s death ends up dead himself, she is allowed to investigate, under the direction of her new partner, or so they say. That is the only thing I didn’t like about the book. Maybe it would happen in real life, maybe not, but Carolyn Arnold’s books are so realistic, that it stuck with me.
At times I was sure I knew where Carolyn and Amanda were taking me…then there would be a curve in the road, leading me to who knows where. Only Carolyn Arnold knows…until YOU read the story yourself.
Amanda Steele’s past comes back to haunt her, though, in truth, it never left her.
Carolyn Arnold is an amazing author, creating complex stories and characters that keep me reading until the last page is turned. I want to know, I have to know. I do hope Amanda Steele can find the life she is meant to live.
Some serious issues arise, like murder, alcoholism, death, sex trafficking, and Amanda Steele, Carolyn Arnold, and I are on the case.
Two doozies at the end of the story have me salivating, thirsting for the next book.
I voluntarily reviewed and ARC of The LIttle Grave by Carolyn Arnold.
See more at fundinmental
February 3, 2021
*thank you to Netgalley, Bookouture and Carolyn Arnold for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
4 stars.
Well that was a curve ball of an ending! I had been wondering what the twist for this was going to be and while, for me, it wasn't mind blowing (probably because I could get my head around it happening quite easily), it was definitely a surprise I hadn't even considered, except in hindsight.
The characters were quite likeable and I did enjoy Detective Amanda Steele. She was interesting and her grief was very relatable and came across as very real. I also ended up liking her work partner as well and am looking forward to reading more about them.
The story as a whole kept my interest and kept me wondering where the path was going to take me. There were no scenes or chapters that were dull and overall it was really enjoyable. Definitely recommend, as this is a great start to what could be a fantastic series.
4 stars.
Well that was a curve ball of an ending! I had been wondering what the twist for this was going to be and while, for me, it wasn't mind blowing (probably because I could get my head around it happening quite easily), it was definitely a surprise I hadn't even considered, except in hindsight.
The characters were quite likeable and I did enjoy Detective Amanda Steele. She was interesting and her grief was very relatable and came across as very real. I also ended up liking her work partner as well and am looking forward to reading more about them.
The story as a whole kept my interest and kept me wondering where the path was going to take me. There were no scenes or chapters that were dull and overall it was really enjoyable. Definitely recommend, as this is a great start to what could be a fantastic series.
January 11, 2021
Five years ago, Detective Amanda Steele's husband and daughter were killed in a car accident by a drunk driver. She also lost the baby she was carrying. She still grieves and she's still angry at the driver ... who did go to prison. She's never been able to move on.
So, it's with a great deal of hesitation that her boss is worried about her investigation when the man who was responsible for the deaths of her family is found murdered in a motel room.
Detective Steel is a good cop .. but she does has issues. She's drinking more than she should, has purchased drugs from a suspect, and needs a nameless man to give her an alibi for when her dead man was murdered.
Torn between her duty and her personal feelings, she works very hard to uncover the truth, and the more she investigates, the more startling facts come to light. To her surprise, his killing is linked to two other killings that have taken place many years ago.
As Amanda edges toward the truth, she gets closer to a secret as personal as it is deadly. Amanda has stumbled upon a dangerous killer, and she must face some terrible truths in order to catch this killer – and save his next victim as she couldn’t save her own daughter…
This beginning of a new series, this is, as are the other books by this author, well written with lots of action. Characters are solidly drawn and they take center stage of this police procedural. The suspense is nicely paced leading to an unexpected conclusion.
Many thanks to the author / Bookouture / Netgalley for the digital copy of this crime fiction. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
August 21, 2025
It’s been five years since Detective Amanda Steele’s life was derailed in the path of an oncoming drunk driver. The small community of Dumfries, Virginia, may have moved on from the tragic deaths of her husband and daughter, but Amanda cannot.
Amanda Steele and her family were in a terrible auto accident that left her husband and young daughter dead. Her survival left her empty and she distanced herself from her family; any joy, or interest, not even in her job as a local detective...all gone. So, when she is notified of the discovery of the killer's body in a motel a few days following his release from prison, she feels absolutely nothing. Nothing...not even his death will bring back her family.
Amanda is a severely damaged individual, and the book is heavily seeped in dark, deep emotions, letting the reader totally understand and experience the depth of her loss, and the long-lasting effects of their demise. Five and a-half years may as well be yesterday as the pain is still raw.
In the meantime, she has learned to satisfy certain basic needs, one of which she’ll now need as her alibi in what was obviously his murder. The conflict of interest would eliminate her from any investigation, but she is given a cold case and soon the plot spins into a far more complex plot than the murder of the drunk driver who killed her family.
Believe me...this story does get complicated...and its only Book #1! What we do know about Amanda is that she is hurting and there's a lot of development yet to happen in what is a promising protagonist with a rookie partner...a partner that Amanda doesn’t want. The partner I believe is going to be good character, but he needs a little more "fleshing out". Trent...the partner's character was likeable from the first meeting. The thought processes behind the investigation, the interviews, and the extended research did a lot to lighten up the atmosphere of this story that has so many dark plots.
It's probably necessary to some degree, but the constant rehashing of Amanda’s pain only serves to slow things down somewhat. The development of new leads, and the narratives do nothing but bury the story in melancholy...if you can get past that...you will look forward to more of this series, however many of installments there may be. At any rate...this is a good, solid start that will only be benefited by additional characters.
Amanda Steele and her family were in a terrible auto accident that left her husband and young daughter dead. Her survival left her empty and she distanced herself from her family; any joy, or interest, not even in her job as a local detective...all gone. So, when she is notified of the discovery of the killer's body in a motel a few days following his release from prison, she feels absolutely nothing. Nothing...not even his death will bring back her family.
Amanda is a severely damaged individual, and the book is heavily seeped in dark, deep emotions, letting the reader totally understand and experience the depth of her loss, and the long-lasting effects of their demise. Five and a-half years may as well be yesterday as the pain is still raw.
In the meantime, she has learned to satisfy certain basic needs, one of which she’ll now need as her alibi in what was obviously his murder. The conflict of interest would eliminate her from any investigation, but she is given a cold case and soon the plot spins into a far more complex plot than the murder of the drunk driver who killed her family.
Believe me...this story does get complicated...and its only Book #1! What we do know about Amanda is that she is hurting and there's a lot of development yet to happen in what is a promising protagonist with a rookie partner...a partner that Amanda doesn’t want. The partner I believe is going to be good character, but he needs a little more "fleshing out". Trent...the partner's character was likeable from the first meeting. The thought processes behind the investigation, the interviews, and the extended research did a lot to lighten up the atmosphere of this story that has so many dark plots.
It's probably necessary to some degree, but the constant rehashing of Amanda’s pain only serves to slow things down somewhat. The development of new leads, and the narratives do nothing but bury the story in melancholy...if you can get past that...you will look forward to more of this series, however many of installments there may be. At any rate...this is a good, solid start that will only be benefited by additional characters.
August 13, 2024
4 Stars!!
That was a captivating way to start a book!
Detective Amanda Steele has lost everything she cared about and finds herself just going through life half assed, having meaningless on night stands with strangers and just not finding enjoyment in anything.
When the man that killed her family while drink driving shows up dead it leads to a some bizarre clues to a sex trafficking ring.
Amanda has a lot of issues as you can expect from someone who lost her family but she comes across as a bit of a bitch and a little clueless when interviewing witnesses which started to really get to me.
A good read with a great case, it kept me guessing until the end. It would have been so much better if I liked Amanda more. I will try the next in the series as I'm hoping Amanda changes her attitude a little after everything that happened in this book.
That was a captivating way to start a book!
Detective Amanda Steele has lost everything she cared about and finds herself just going through life half assed, having meaningless on night stands with strangers and just not finding enjoyment in anything.
When the man that killed her family while drink driving shows up dead it leads to a some bizarre clues to a sex trafficking ring.
Amanda has a lot of issues as you can expect from someone who lost her family but she comes across as a bit of a bitch and a little clueless when interviewing witnesses which started to really get to me.
A good read with a great case, it kept me guessing until the end. It would have been so much better if I liked Amanda more. I will try the next in the series as I'm hoping Amanda changes her attitude a little after everything that happened in this book.
December 31, 2020
It’s been five years since Detective Amanda Steele’s life was derailed in the path of an oncoming drunk driver. The small community of Dumfries, Virginia, may have moved on from the tragic deaths of her husband and daughter, but Amanda cannot. When the driver who killed her family is found murdered in a motel room, she can’t keep away from the case.
Fighting her sergeant to be allowed to work an investigation with such a personal connection to her, Amanda is in a race to prove that she can uncover the truth. But the more she digs into the past of the man who destroyed her future, the more shocking discoveries she makes. And when Amanda finds the link between a silver bracelet in his possession and the brutal unsolved murder of a young exotic dancer, she realizes she’s caught up in something darker than she ever imagined and suspects that more girls could be in danger.
This was a really quick read because it was so interesting!
I love a strong female detective character, but initially for me, I found Detective Amanda Steele a little bit annoying because of her attitude at the beginning towards her rookie partner Detective Trent. As much as I understood her need to fly solo and take the lead in this case, I really felt she could have been slightly more accommodating and welcoming.
Apart from that the plot as well as the narration was great. There were some surprising twists and the ending was so unexpected. It just lifted the entire book to another level.. Just wish that there was a slightly more detailed ending to the unsolved murder of a young exotic dancer
Overall, a good start to a new series. Looking forward to more books in this series.
Thank You NetGalley and Bookouture for this ARC!
Fighting her sergeant to be allowed to work an investigation with such a personal connection to her, Amanda is in a race to prove that she can uncover the truth. But the more she digs into the past of the man who destroyed her future, the more shocking discoveries she makes. And when Amanda finds the link between a silver bracelet in his possession and the brutal unsolved murder of a young exotic dancer, she realizes she’s caught up in something darker than she ever imagined and suspects that more girls could be in danger.
This was a really quick read because it was so interesting!
I love a strong female detective character, but initially for me, I found Detective Amanda Steele a little bit annoying because of her attitude at the beginning towards her rookie partner Detective Trent. As much as I understood her need to fly solo and take the lead in this case, I really felt she could have been slightly more accommodating and welcoming.
Apart from that the plot as well as the narration was great. There were some surprising twists and the ending was so unexpected. It just lifted the entire book to another level.. Just wish that there was a slightly more detailed ending to the unsolved murder of a young exotic dancer
Overall, a good start to a new series. Looking forward to more books in this series.
Thank You NetGalley and Bookouture for this ARC!
March 29, 2023
This was a long and drawn out story that could easily shave about half off of it and still tell the story. I got so tired of Amanda's self pity....I don't need that fact hammered over and over and over ad nauseam. She is called to the murder scene of a man who, years ago, while driving drunk, killed her husband and daughter and left Amanda with critical injuries. And she is allowed to investigate? Huge conflict of interest and that would never happen. The rest of the story is just so drawn out that it took me weeks to read this. It just didn't capture my interest. I did manage to finish it, but it was not a satisfying read at all.
November 16, 2024
At first I was annoyed...
The heroine made so many mistakes at first with her ONS, entering the scene of a crime where she was a suspect, and making that stupid deal with F. I thought she was going down for it but I never suspected the murderer. I thought I knew and was like blah, blah, blah and the whammo! I was wrong. Such a good twist. Oh the characters in the story were all great. I like Logan and I hope he turns out to be a good guy and I like Stinson too as her partner. Just a crazy good book
The heroine made so many mistakes at first with her ONS, entering the scene of a crime where she was a suspect, and making that stupid deal with F. I thought she was going down for it but I never suspected the murderer. I thought I knew and was like blah, blah, blah and the whammo! I was wrong. Such a good twist. Oh the characters in the story were all great. I like Logan and I hope he turns out to be a good guy and I like Stinson too as her partner. Just a crazy good book
January 1, 2021
A new series for the new year and it was a really good read.
Detective Amanda Steele is about to head somewhere she shouldn’t when her colleague calls her and tells her some news. The man responsible for the death of her daughter and husband has just been found dead.
Amanda heads over there but is warned to not get involved in the case.
She is desparate to be part of the investigation so manages to make a deal with her boss.
At first it appears like a drunken accident but following the post mortem, it’s clear he was murdered.
There’s a bit if a lull in the middle of the book but it picks up again towards the end.
I had no idea who the killer was but even I didn’t expect that ending.
This is a good start to a new series.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
Detective Amanda Steele is about to head somewhere she shouldn’t when her colleague calls her and tells her some news. The man responsible for the death of her daughter and husband has just been found dead.
Amanda heads over there but is warned to not get involved in the case.
She is desparate to be part of the investigation so manages to make a deal with her boss.
At first it appears like a drunken accident but following the post mortem, it’s clear he was murdered.
There’s a bit if a lull in the middle of the book but it picks up again towards the end.
I had no idea who the killer was but even I didn’t expect that ending.
This is a good start to a new series.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
January 18, 2021
INTENSEFUL, emotional, suspenseful police procedural thriller. The character of the main detective (Amanda) has endured personal devastating tragedy which affects her view of life & influences her detective skills. Great characterization & storyline which keeps you on pins & needles until the terrific conclusion. First time reading this author but will definitely read #2 in this series. RECOMMEND highly. Thanks to NetGalley & Bookouture for this ARC in return for my honest review.
August 2, 2024
It's not every day that you DNF a book after reading over 80%, isn't it? Today is one of those rare ones. And the credit goes to The Little Grave by Carolyn Arnold.
It's the story of Detective Amanda Steele looking into the death of someone she shouldn't have. It's a drunkard who killed Amanda's husband and daughter in a car crash five years ago.
Amanda is still haunted by the past. But for some reason, she feels compelled to take on the case. She insists her sergeant to hand over the investigation of this deeply personal matter.
The Little Grave has all the twists and turns, you would like in a crime thriller. Serial killers, drug dealers, sex-trafficking... all that makes a thriller a thriller.
Unfortunately, the binding is loose. The story keeps dragging as the detective goes on one side quest after another, as a new secret is revealed.
Every few pages, something reminds her of the accident (or her husband or daughter) and there goes a paragraph long monologue of her grieving the death. Not to sound insensitive, but this feels repetitive.
The Little Grave is a compelling crime thriller. No doubt about that. It did feel heart-stopping, but as you move ahead... it doesn't feel engaging enough.
At some points, Amanda is so involved in her side quests that even if you skip a few paragraphs, you miss nothing substantial in the story. You anyway lose track of who is who.
So... it's a good story; could have been paced better.
Recommended, but not a must-read.
It's the story of Detective Amanda Steele looking into the death of someone she shouldn't have. It's a drunkard who killed Amanda's husband and daughter in a car crash five years ago.
Amanda is still haunted by the past. But for some reason, she feels compelled to take on the case. She insists her sergeant to hand over the investigation of this deeply personal matter.
The Little Grave has all the twists and turns, you would like in a crime thriller. Serial killers, drug dealers, sex-trafficking... all that makes a thriller a thriller.
Unfortunately, the binding is loose. The story keeps dragging as the detective goes on one side quest after another, as a new secret is revealed.
Every few pages, something reminds her of the accident (or her husband or daughter) and there goes a paragraph long monologue of her grieving the death. Not to sound insensitive, but this feels repetitive.
The Little Grave is a compelling crime thriller. No doubt about that. It did feel heart-stopping, but as you move ahead... it doesn't feel engaging enough.
At some points, Amanda is so involved in her side quests that even if you skip a few paragraphs, you miss nothing substantial in the story. You anyway lose track of who is who.
So... it's a good story; could have been paced better.
Recommended, but not a must-read.
June 19, 2026
Finished reading: June 18th 2026
"She had to get her alibi in order, and she had to get it now. Palmer had destroyed her life five and a half years ago and it seemed he was back to stomp out any embers."
REVIEW
WARNING: it's unpopular opinion time again!!
February 12, 2024
The Little Grave is the first book in the Detective Amanda Steele Crime Thriller series and sets the tone for the rest of the series. The series is set in and around Dumfries, Virginia. The book opens with a young stripper, Casey-Anne is shot and killed in Georgia. It then cuts to Amanda and her introduction to the reader. She is still dealing with the loss of her husband, 6 YO daughter and unborn child after being struck head on by a drunk driver. Fast forward 5.5 years and he has been released from prison, but when Amanda is called to a seedy motel after the discover of a dead body, she finds the man who has been her worst nightmare for years. She wants to stay on the case and her lieutenant allows it, but she is not the lead. Amanda doesn't want a partner, but has no choice. Trent Stenson is the man who will become Amanda's partner, if he can stick with it. There are a lot of issues with this death: first it turns out to be a murder, then it ties to two more deaths and the cousin of the murdered man is not happy with Amanda investigating the death. Can Amanda remain professional and detached enough to solve Chad Palmer's murder?
I enjoyed this book and am glad I read it. I enjoyed meeting the characters from the start and seeing how their relationships developed. I thought they were all well developed and that this was a strong start to the series. Amanda is a strong character, smart and extremely intuitive. I loved how she and Trent worked together. This was a very interesting case and I enjoyed seeing the process, as well as how it tied to other cases. A well written crime thriller that had me flipping pages to find out what happened next.
I enjoyed this book and am glad I read it. I enjoyed meeting the characters from the start and seeing how their relationships developed. I thought they were all well developed and that this was a strong start to the series. Amanda is a strong character, smart and extremely intuitive. I loved how she and Trent worked together. This was a very interesting case and I enjoyed seeing the process, as well as how it tied to other cases. A well written crime thriller that had me flipping pages to find out what happened next.
January 11, 2021
The Little Grave is book one in Carolyn Arnold’s new Detective Amanda Steele series.
Prince William County Police Department Homicide Detective, Amanda Steele, is trying to live up to the lofty reputation built by her former police chief father, while dealing with the aftermath of a tragic accident that took the lives of her husband and daughter. Her latest murder case is only adding to her stress. She’s promised herself to work the case to its end, but will it end her before she ends it?
This is a good start to the series. Amanda, the female protagonist, is a good, complex, if not completely likable character. The story starts slowly but picks up the pace about halfway through and builds steadily till the climatic end. The plot was strong and interesting, even with the slow start. Ms. Arnold introduces some smart, unexpected twists that will keep you guessing. Overall, I enjoyed this novel and will read future installments. I rate The Little Grave 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good mystery.
My thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. However, the opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine and mine alone.
Prince William County Police Department Homicide Detective, Amanda Steele, is trying to live up to the lofty reputation built by her former police chief father, while dealing with the aftermath of a tragic accident that took the lives of her husband and daughter. Her latest murder case is only adding to her stress. She’s promised herself to work the case to its end, but will it end her before she ends it?
This is a good start to the series. Amanda, the female protagonist, is a good, complex, if not completely likable character. The story starts slowly but picks up the pace about halfway through and builds steadily till the climatic end. The plot was strong and interesting, even with the slow start. Ms. Arnold introduces some smart, unexpected twists that will keep you guessing. Overall, I enjoyed this novel and will read future installments. I rate The Little Grave 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good mystery.
My thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. However, the opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine and mine alone.
January 13, 2021
The little grave is a crime series centred around Detective Amanda Steele. This is the first in the series and we get to know alot about Amanda during this book.
5 years earlier Amanda"s husband and daughter were killed by a drunk driver. So when he turns up dead only days after his release Amanda is drawn to the case and is on a mission to find our how he dead, one big issue though she has motives. During the course of the investigation Amanda stumbles across something far more sinister and this leads to more questions than answers.
Amanda as the lead protagonist is an interesting choice. She clearly harbours guilt and likely ptsd from the death of her family. What I struggle to believe is that she would be allowed anywhere near the case, in reality she has thr biggest motive out of everyone, but this is fiction so I didn't spend time over thinking this. I went from thinking Amanda was a bad ass to a drip. I understand that we are given her history for why she is the way she is but that still made it hard to truly commit to her. I actually really liked her partner in the case, I almost wish we got to head both voices throughout the book not just the one.
I know the case is surrounding the guy who had served time for the deaths of Amanda's family but at points I felt there was to much pain and sadness and not enough police work. This didn't make me enjoy it any less I fo love a good background. However I would of liked a chapter dedicated to exactly what happened. But that could be just me.
I thought I had worked out the killer I was so close. That is one thing I loved about the way the novel is written thru dont allude to anyone like alot do we are left to our own devises working out who did what. The second case that is covered in the book is far more interesting in my opinion and I have a feeling that isn't done, it feels like just the start and I cannot wait to read how that plans out.
All in all a good easy read with a unique murder, I do not recall reading anything like that before so that aline is worth five stars. However the book 2ws lacking in some part. The end reads with much more suspense and tension. I will be reading any more to come in this series as it really was quite enjoyable and I hadn't guess the killer. 3.5 stars 🌟
Thank you to Netgalley, the publishers and Carolyn Arnold for the digital advanced copy in exchange for my fair and honest review.
5 years earlier Amanda"s husband and daughter were killed by a drunk driver. So when he turns up dead only days after his release Amanda is drawn to the case and is on a mission to find our how he dead, one big issue though she has motives. During the course of the investigation Amanda stumbles across something far more sinister and this leads to more questions than answers.
Amanda as the lead protagonist is an interesting choice. She clearly harbours guilt and likely ptsd from the death of her family. What I struggle to believe is that she would be allowed anywhere near the case, in reality she has thr biggest motive out of everyone, but this is fiction so I didn't spend time over thinking this. I went from thinking Amanda was a bad ass to a drip. I understand that we are given her history for why she is the way she is but that still made it hard to truly commit to her. I actually really liked her partner in the case, I almost wish we got to head both voices throughout the book not just the one.
I know the case is surrounding the guy who had served time for the deaths of Amanda's family but at points I felt there was to much pain and sadness and not enough police work. This didn't make me enjoy it any less I fo love a good background. However I would of liked a chapter dedicated to exactly what happened. But that could be just me.
I thought I had worked out the killer I was so close. That is one thing I loved about the way the novel is written thru dont allude to anyone like alot do we are left to our own devises working out who did what. The second case that is covered in the book is far more interesting in my opinion and I have a feeling that isn't done, it feels like just the start and I cannot wait to read how that plans out.
All in all a good easy read with a unique murder, I do not recall reading anything like that before so that aline is worth five stars. However the book 2ws lacking in some part. The end reads with much more suspense and tension. I will be reading any more to come in this series as it really was quite enjoyable and I hadn't guess the killer. 3.5 stars 🌟
Thank you to Netgalley, the publishers and Carolyn Arnold for the digital advanced copy in exchange for my fair and honest review.
January 9, 2021
I've been expecting some other kind of case for Detective Amanda Steele when I started reading based on the book title. This crime/police procedural story starts with one night stand with no info exchanged between Amanda and the guy that she met at the bar. She gets a call about suspicious death in a motel. When she gets on the scene she recognized the dead man...he is the drunk man who killed her husband, child and unborn baby in the accident 5 and a half years ago. For the first time after her solo work, she gets a partner to work with and they start to investigate the death that turns out to be murder. From one death, they stumble on two more murders that are connected with their case. Among all that mess there is a question of her alibi for the time of the murder, someone who is trying to make her stop investigating, and her way of coping with her grief for her lost family.
From a bit boring start, the story kept me guessing what will happen next, and it surprised me a few times with some of the twists and turns. I was really surprised with the ending. The base of the main characters is strong.
I think this is a good start for a promising series about Detective Amanda Steele. There is still work on developing of her character that I believe will happen in the next instalment. Can't wait to read the next book.
From a bit boring start, the story kept me guessing what will happen next, and it surprised me a few times with some of the twists and turns. I was really surprised with the ending. The base of the main characters is strong.
I think this is a good start for a promising series about Detective Amanda Steele. There is still work on developing of her character that I believe will happen in the next instalment. Can't wait to read the next book.
January 28, 2025
When the drunk driver who killed her family is found dead in suspicious circumstances, Detective Amanda Steele fights to be assigned to his case.
The story demands a suspension of disbelief.
- With zero degrees of separation, Steele should not have had any kind of access to this investigation.
- The lead detective whose involvement hinges on a crucial alibi is not investigated by another officer.
- A graphic incident mid-novel is glossed over.
The main character left me somewhat cold. She cuts her extended family from her life because "it's too painful to see them" - this I could not fathom. Her lone-wolf persona was irritatingly selfish and her self-congratulatory victory of getting the rookie to stand up for himself by her (his partner) cutting him down was difficult to take. If there was a stand-out character, it was the rookie whose calm and logical manner helped to thin out the acidic behaviour of the rest of the cast.
Despite my negative comments, I can see this book being turned into a successful tv show with the right lead but, as it stands, I doubt I'll follow this series.
The story demands a suspension of disbelief.
- With zero degrees of separation, Steele should not have had any kind of access to this investigation.
- The lead detective whose involvement hinges on a crucial alibi is not investigated by another officer.
- A graphic incident mid-novel is glossed over.
The main character left me somewhat cold. She cuts her extended family from her life because "it's too painful to see them" - this I could not fathom. Her lone-wolf persona was irritatingly selfish and her self-congratulatory victory of getting the rookie to stand up for himself by her (his partner) cutting him down was difficult to take. If there was a stand-out character, it was the rookie whose calm and logical manner helped to thin out the acidic behaviour of the rest of the cast.
Despite my negative comments, I can see this book being turned into a successful tv show with the right lead but, as it stands, I doubt I'll follow this series.
April 19, 2021
I love crime series and I love the feeling you get when you find a good one and cannot wait for the next book. I like flawed characters, main characters with dark haunting pasts. I like how this book throws you right into the main detective’s personal problems as they are entwined with the first case. I like when there is more than one case happening. I liked how the case unfolded and the side case. The only issue I had was I thought the sex trafficking case was wrapped up a bit too fast. Although the door was left open for the finding of future purchasers. I like how you knew what was happening to an extent, but that there were still surprises. Having good, interesting, complex cases in detective series is crucial, but when you like the main characters it makes the book all the better. I definitely will be reading the next book in the series. I would give it 4.5 stars.
January 11, 2021
Disclosure. This post is a review of an e-book I was sent for free. All opinions are my own.
This is the first title in the new Detective Amanda Steele series from Carolyn Arnold. I’m always impressed how many series this author can juggle simultaneously, but this is the first time that I am starting with book one in a series.
The prologue draws you in with a killing in Atlanta over five years ago, before introducing you to the main character Amanda Steele in Virginia, who has just had a hot one-night stand in a motel with a stranger. We soon learn that Amanda lost her husband and six-year old daughter five years ago, killed by drunk driver Chad Palmer and since then life has just held pain and sorrow. She sleeps with strangers and pops sleeping pills.
Not long after abandoning this latest guy, Amanda gets a call from friend and colleague Becky. Chad Palmer has been found dead, days after being released from prison. Even with the conflict of interest, Amanda manages to talk herself onto the case, but Sergeant Malone insists she doesn’t work solo and assigns her a partner, namely new guy joining the team, Trent Stenson. Plus he wants details of her alibi.
So who has killed Chad? How can Amanda investigate the death of a man who destroyed her future? How will she track down her sexy mystery man alibi? Can she work well with new partner Trent? And what is the connection with that prologue?
Lots of strands to this story as the investigation progresses, with plenty of surprises that I would never have guessed. Once again Carolyn Arnold has delivered a real page turner that had me gripped throughout.
This is the first title in the new Detective Amanda Steele series from Carolyn Arnold. I’m always impressed how many series this author can juggle simultaneously, but this is the first time that I am starting with book one in a series.
The prologue draws you in with a killing in Atlanta over five years ago, before introducing you to the main character Amanda Steele in Virginia, who has just had a hot one-night stand in a motel with a stranger. We soon learn that Amanda lost her husband and six-year old daughter five years ago, killed by drunk driver Chad Palmer and since then life has just held pain and sorrow. She sleeps with strangers and pops sleeping pills.
Not long after abandoning this latest guy, Amanda gets a call from friend and colleague Becky. Chad Palmer has been found dead, days after being released from prison. Even with the conflict of interest, Amanda manages to talk herself onto the case, but Sergeant Malone insists she doesn’t work solo and assigns her a partner, namely new guy joining the team, Trent Stenson. Plus he wants details of her alibi.
So who has killed Chad? How can Amanda investigate the death of a man who destroyed her future? How will she track down her sexy mystery man alibi? Can she work well with new partner Trent? And what is the connection with that prologue?
Lots of strands to this story as the investigation progresses, with plenty of surprises that I would never have guessed. Once again Carolyn Arnold has delivered a real page turner that had me gripped throughout.
January 3, 2021
Having lost her husband and child to a drunk driver, Detective Amanda Steele is only surviving by numbing her grief with anonymous sex and illegally obtained prescription drugs.
When the man responsible for the death of her family is found dead in a motel room, Amanda fights to be allowed to work the case. (Given her obvious personal interest in it, plus the fact that she herself has a motive for murdering Chad Palmer, it’s hard to imagine this would ever have been permitted, but you have to suspend your disbelief on that one. To be fair, it’s made clear how irregular it is.)
As Amanda digs deeper, it soon becomes clear that Palmer’s death may be connected to other unsolved crimes and some dark secrets.
Amanda’s a bit of a maverick and not particularly nice to those around her, especially Trent, the rookie new partner she resents being made to have. You can’t really blame her, though. Poor Amanda really can’t catch a break - her life is full of more misfortune than anyone should have to deal with. I love a police procedural, but I’ve come to the conclusion that I prefer my detectives with fewer demons.
It took me a little while to get into but the story did eventually grab hold. I certainly didn’t guess who killed Palmer, and I doubt many other readers would, either.
While the writing is generally fine, as a minor niggle there are a few instances of the wrong word being used - spurn for spur, fraternal for (presumably) paternal, annunciated for enunciated. As I had an advance copy, hopefully these will be picked up and corrected.
December 13, 2020
An American crime thriller. A detective, Amanda, was involved in an accident in which her 6 year old daughter and husband were killed. Now the drunk driver who causedthe accident has been found dead, probibly murdered, in a motel room . Amanda wants to investigate, though it did not seem like a good idea to me (or some of her co-workers) and she is paired up with Trent, a colleague, a new detective.
On the whole a gripping story which kept my interest. I liked the way the author described the thought processes when solving the crime(s) and this came across as quite believable. I did not always like Amanda as a character and there were scenes of violence that highlighted the differences between the US and UK society. Saying that,I am interested to see how Amanda gets on further and wouldlike to readmore about her.
Thank you to Net Galley for an ARCin exchange for an honest review
On the whole a gripping story which kept my interest. I liked the way the author described the thought processes when solving the crime(s) and this came across as quite believable. I did not always like Amanda as a character and there were scenes of violence that highlighted the differences between the US and UK society. Saying that,I am interested to see how Amanda gets on further and wouldlike to readmore about her.
Thank you to Net Galley for an ARCin exchange for an honest review
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