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Ellery Hathaway #5
Last Seen Alive
The fifth book in Joanna Schaffhausen's heartpounding Ellery Hathaway mystery series.
Boston detective Ellery Hathaway met FBI agent Reed Markham when he pried open a serial killer’s closet to rescue her. Years on, their relationship remains defined by that moment and by Francis Coben’s horrific crimes. To free herself from Coben’s legacy, Ellery had to walk away from Reed, too. But Coben is not letting go so easily. He has an impossible proposition: Coben will finally give up the location of the remaining bodies, on one condition—Reed must bring him Ellery.
Now the families of the missing victims are crying out for justice that only Ellery can deliver. The media hungers for a sequel and Coben is their camera-ready star. He claims he is sorry and wants to make amends. But Ellery is the one living person who has seen the monster behind the mask and she doesn’t believe he can be redeemed. Not after everything he’s done. Not after what she’s been through. And certainly not after a fresh body turns up with Coben’s signature all over it.
Boston detective Ellery Hathaway met FBI agent Reed Markham when he pried open a serial killer’s closet to rescue her. Years on, their relationship remains defined by that moment and by Francis Coben’s horrific crimes. To free herself from Coben’s legacy, Ellery had to walk away from Reed, too. But Coben is not letting go so easily. He has an impossible proposition: Coben will finally give up the location of the remaining bodies, on one condition—Reed must bring him Ellery.
Now the families of the missing victims are crying out for justice that only Ellery can deliver. The media hungers for a sequel and Coben is their camera-ready star. He claims he is sorry and wants to make amends. But Ellery is the one living person who has seen the monster behind the mask and she doesn’t believe he can be redeemed. Not after everything he’s done. Not after what she’s been through. And certainly not after a fresh body turns up with Coben’s signature all over it.
308 pages, Hardcover
First published January 25, 2022
50 people are currently reading
8879 people want to read
About the author
Joanna Schaffhausen
12 books1,216 followersJoanna Schaffhausen wields a mean scalpel, skills she developed in her years studying neuroscience. She has a doctorate in psychology, which reflects her long-standing interest in the brain―how it develops and the many ways it can go wrong. Previously, she worked as a scientific editor in the field of drug development. Prior to that, she was an editorial producer for ABC News, writing for programs such as World News Tonight, Good Morning America, and 20/20. She lives in the Boston area with her husband, daughter, and an obstreperous basset hound.
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August 7, 2023
Last Seen Alive (Ellery Hathaway #5)
by Joanna Schaffhausen
Boston detective Ellery Hathaway and FBI agent Reed Markham have a very long history. They met when Reed rescued fourteen year old Ellery from a serial killer who had tortured, mutilated, and slain over a dozen young women. Ellery's rescue put an end to Francis Cohen's reign of terror although he never left her mind and he never left her alone. In the last few years, Ellery and Reed have had a rocky relationship, as friends and lovers, never able to get out from under the weight of how they first met.
Now Cohen will give up the location of bodies if he can have a face to face meeting with Ellery. It's Reed who Cohen contacts and it's Reed who has to ask Ellery to do the last thing she'd ever want to do...be in the presence of the monster who overshadows everything in her life. Ellery says yes because she wants to bring closure to the families of the girls whose bodies have never been found.
The entire series is a dark one, the crimes as horrible as one can imagine. This book brings the story of Ellery Hathaway full circle. Despite seventeen years having passed since she was kidnapped and terrorized by Cohen, she's finally going to face her fears and all she has unsuccessfully tried to put behind her. Reed will be there for the journey, just as he's always been part of her story. He actually wrote her story, their story, becoming a best selling author in the process. Now there are people who want to make a documentary out of Ellery's meeting with Cohen and Ellery will be there only for the victims.
But, then, there is a murder of a young women and it's definitely a copycat killing. Obviously Cohen has fans and friends who are helping him get his way from inside prison. Ellery's nightmare isn't over since the one thing that Cohen really wants is Ellery and to be able to finish what he started seventeen years ago. This is a fine addition to the Ellery Hathaway series as she faces all her memories and fears, and attempts to break free of the hold Cohen has had on her life.
Pub January 25, 2022
Thank you to St. Martin's Press/Minotaur Books and NetGalley for this ARC.
by Joanna Schaffhausen
Boston detective Ellery Hathaway and FBI agent Reed Markham have a very long history. They met when Reed rescued fourteen year old Ellery from a serial killer who had tortured, mutilated, and slain over a dozen young women. Ellery's rescue put an end to Francis Cohen's reign of terror although he never left her mind and he never left her alone. In the last few years, Ellery and Reed have had a rocky relationship, as friends and lovers, never able to get out from under the weight of how they first met.
Now Cohen will give up the location of bodies if he can have a face to face meeting with Ellery. It's Reed who Cohen contacts and it's Reed who has to ask Ellery to do the last thing she'd ever want to do...be in the presence of the monster who overshadows everything in her life. Ellery says yes because she wants to bring closure to the families of the girls whose bodies have never been found.
The entire series is a dark one, the crimes as horrible as one can imagine. This book brings the story of Ellery Hathaway full circle. Despite seventeen years having passed since she was kidnapped and terrorized by Cohen, she's finally going to face her fears and all she has unsuccessfully tried to put behind her. Reed will be there for the journey, just as he's always been part of her story. He actually wrote her story, their story, becoming a best selling author in the process. Now there are people who want to make a documentary out of Ellery's meeting with Cohen and Ellery will be there only for the victims.
But, then, there is a murder of a young women and it's definitely a copycat killing. Obviously Cohen has fans and friends who are helping him get his way from inside prison. Ellery's nightmare isn't over since the one thing that Cohen really wants is Ellery and to be able to finish what he started seventeen years ago. This is a fine addition to the Ellery Hathaway series as she faces all her memories and fears, and attempts to break free of the hold Cohen has had on her life.
Pub January 25, 2022
Thank you to St. Martin's Press/Minotaur Books and NetGalley for this ARC.
November 22, 2021
I’m fairly new to this author, having only read one of her novels before now, but I knew I liked her writing style!!
This is the 5th book in the “Ellery Hathaway” series. I took a chance and grabbed it! I’m glad I did, it definitely can be a standalone!! I’m sure this novel would be even more immersive when read in order.
Ellery Hathaway is a young police officer who was a victim of a serial killer. She was the only one who lived, while 17 other young women were murdered. She was 14 y/o when she was kidnapped, tortured and held hostage for 3 days! She was rescued by FBI agent Reed Markham when he found her nailed into a closet!! Francis Coben has been in prison for the past 17 years.
Throughout the years Ellery and Reed have always stayed close. Their relationship has gone through many changes. She is hearing from him now!! Francis Coben, the monster who killed so many, now has a proposition for Ellery. He will go on TV and be interviewed but only if Ellery is present. He has promised to tell the location of other missing girls.
Ellery had hoped never to see his face again but she has the parents of a probable victim begging her to allow the interview!!
The plot INCREASES IN TENSION AND ANXIETY as the story moves through an ever changing series of events.
The author did a good job of keeping the reader involved with new evidence, new leads to follow up and a thorough and convincing conclusion.
I enjoyed this novel but at the same time was horrified at times!! Coben is one of the most convincing psychopaths to appear in my thriller reading this year!!
I can recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys a fast paced read with a main protagonist that you can definitely root for!! Ellery has come a long way and fought hard to become the strong young woman that she is now!!
I received an ARC of this novel from the publisher through Edelweiss.
#minotaur influencer
This is the 5th book in the “Ellery Hathaway” series. I took a chance and grabbed it! I’m glad I did, it definitely can be a standalone!! I’m sure this novel would be even more immersive when read in order.
Ellery Hathaway is a young police officer who was a victim of a serial killer. She was the only one who lived, while 17 other young women were murdered. She was 14 y/o when she was kidnapped, tortured and held hostage for 3 days! She was rescued by FBI agent Reed Markham when he found her nailed into a closet!! Francis Coben has been in prison for the past 17 years.
Throughout the years Ellery and Reed have always stayed close. Their relationship has gone through many changes. She is hearing from him now!! Francis Coben, the monster who killed so many, now has a proposition for Ellery. He will go on TV and be interviewed but only if Ellery is present. He has promised to tell the location of other missing girls.
Ellery had hoped never to see his face again but she has the parents of a probable victim begging her to allow the interview!!
The plot INCREASES IN TENSION AND ANXIETY as the story moves through an ever changing series of events.
The author did a good job of keeping the reader involved with new evidence, new leads to follow up and a thorough and convincing conclusion.
I enjoyed this novel but at the same time was horrified at times!! Coben is one of the most convincing psychopaths to appear in my thriller reading this year!!
I can recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys a fast paced read with a main protagonist that you can definitely root for!! Ellery has come a long way and fought hard to become the strong young woman that she is now!!
I received an ARC of this novel from the publisher through Edelweiss.
#minotaur influencer
November 23, 2021
3.5 ⭐️
This is book #5 in the popular Ellery Hathaway series but you can easily read this one as a stand-alone. In fact, not only does it fill you in on Ellery Hathaway’s history-it actually adds details as this story comes full circle from the first.
The quick “spoiler free” recap is that Ellery Hathaway was just 14 years old when she became victim #17 of the notorious serial killer, Francis Michael Coben- a murderer with a “hand fetish” -but she was the only girl who survived.
She was rescued by FBI profiler, Reed Markham, and she grew up to join the police force of Woodbury, MA. When she needed the resources of the FBI for a case, she called upon Reed Markham, who “owed her one” after he profited from writing a book about the case with his then wife, Sarit.
They team up to solve cases in books one through four and their relationship develops over time.
In book five, Coben has agreed to confess to the location of the remaining bodies-under one condition-an interview with Ellery. When a fresh body is discovered which seems linked to Coben, despite the fact that he is serving a life sentence, she reluctantly agrees.
Can she find closure of her own? And, what price will she have to pay to find it?
This book was the darkest in the five book series, and we finally get inside the head of Coben, during the “Hannibal Lecter” style interview between Coben and Ellery.
But, Ellery is no “Clarice”.
She is a a woman who continues to have good instincts but makes bad choices. And, Reed is still trying to save her.
I can understand why so many people enjoy “series”. When you pick up the next book, it’s like you are reuniting with old friends. And, this series has many fans, Unfortunately it has been a bit of a struggle for me as I don’t like romance mixed in with my police procedurals-especially not ones with “open door” scenes, and that is made worse by the fact, that the pairing of these two, is distasteful to me. And, Ellery seems “immature” and hasn’t grown since book one.
Still other readers don’t seem bothered by either fact, and most seem to be rooting for the two of them, so mine is just one opinion. In fact-buddy readers DeAnn and Marilyn may even feel differently….be sure to check out their TERRIFIC reviews for additional opinions!
I am not sure if there will be be a book six-but I am closing my door on these two, whether there is or isn’t.
I would like to thank Minotaur books for the gifted copy provided through NetGalley. It was my pleasure to offer a candid review!
Available January 25, 2022.
This is book #5 in the popular Ellery Hathaway series but you can easily read this one as a stand-alone. In fact, not only does it fill you in on Ellery Hathaway’s history-it actually adds details as this story comes full circle from the first.
The quick “spoiler free” recap is that Ellery Hathaway was just 14 years old when she became victim #17 of the notorious serial killer, Francis Michael Coben- a murderer with a “hand fetish” -but she was the only girl who survived.
She was rescued by FBI profiler, Reed Markham, and she grew up to join the police force of Woodbury, MA. When she needed the resources of the FBI for a case, she called upon Reed Markham, who “owed her one” after he profited from writing a book about the case with his then wife, Sarit.
They team up to solve cases in books one through four and their relationship develops over time.
In book five, Coben has agreed to confess to the location of the remaining bodies-under one condition-an interview with Ellery. When a fresh body is discovered which seems linked to Coben, despite the fact that he is serving a life sentence, she reluctantly agrees.
Can she find closure of her own? And, what price will she have to pay to find it?
This book was the darkest in the five book series, and we finally get inside the head of Coben, during the “Hannibal Lecter” style interview between Coben and Ellery.
But, Ellery is no “Clarice”.
She is a a woman who continues to have good instincts but makes bad choices. And, Reed is still trying to save her.
I can understand why so many people enjoy “series”. When you pick up the next book, it’s like you are reuniting with old friends. And, this series has many fans, Unfortunately it has been a bit of a struggle for me as I don’t like romance mixed in with my police procedurals-especially not ones with “open door” scenes, and that is made worse by the fact, that the pairing of these two, is distasteful to me. And, Ellery seems “immature” and hasn’t grown since book one.
Still other readers don’t seem bothered by either fact, and most seem to be rooting for the two of them, so mine is just one opinion. In fact-buddy readers DeAnn and Marilyn may even feel differently….be sure to check out their TERRIFIC reviews for additional opinions!
I am not sure if there will be be a book six-but I am closing my door on these two, whether there is or isn’t.
I would like to thank Minotaur books for the gifted copy provided through NetGalley. It was my pleasure to offer a candid review!
Available January 25, 2022.
January 16, 2022
Can you make a deal with the devil and come away unscathed?
Book five of the Ellery Hathaway series. Sufficient details will provide you enough information to jump in right here. But I strongly suggest you start at the beginning with book one, The Vanishing Season to get the full backstory on our characters.
Ellery survived the unimaginable. She was rescued from a serial killer by FBI agent Reed Markham, making her the only victim to survive deranged killer Francis Corbin. Who now presently sits on death row. But the families of the lost girls and the media won’t let this case be put to rest. They want answers straight from the killer himself. He agrees…if, and only if Ellery herself comes to see him.
What happens when you poke the bear? In this case a sadistic serial killer? Well…nothing good! That’s what!
This series is not for the faint of heart. It’s dark and at times quite shocking and disturbing. But author Joanna Schaffhausen doesn’t add gratuitous violence. Cleverly weaved, It’s everything you would expect in a series revolving around a serial killer.
I‘ve grown to love the lead character Ellery and her desperate struggle to permanently put the past behind her and live a ‘normal’ life. Her relationship with Reed has been tumultuous but you always feel the magnetic pull between the two that’s undeniable.
I believe this may be the final book in this series? (Am I correct Ms. Schaffhausen?) If so, I will sincerely miss all these wonderful characters. But I do appreciate how you left everything at the end. (If indeed this is the end)😉
A girl can dream…right!?💁🏻♀️🙏💖
A buddy read with Susanne. Who was by my side through this entire series, (except for book one). Susanne you really do need to go back and read how it all started….Just sayin!🤭
Posted to: https://books-are-a-girls-best-friend...
Thank you to NetGalley and Minotaur Books
Book five of the Ellery Hathaway series. Sufficient details will provide you enough information to jump in right here. But I strongly suggest you start at the beginning with book one, The Vanishing Season to get the full backstory on our characters.
Ellery survived the unimaginable. She was rescued from a serial killer by FBI agent Reed Markham, making her the only victim to survive deranged killer Francis Corbin. Who now presently sits on death row. But the families of the lost girls and the media won’t let this case be put to rest. They want answers straight from the killer himself. He agrees…if, and only if Ellery herself comes to see him.
What happens when you poke the bear? In this case a sadistic serial killer? Well…nothing good! That’s what!
This series is not for the faint of heart. It’s dark and at times quite shocking and disturbing. But author Joanna Schaffhausen doesn’t add gratuitous violence. Cleverly weaved, It’s everything you would expect in a series revolving around a serial killer.
I‘ve grown to love the lead character Ellery and her desperate struggle to permanently put the past behind her and live a ‘normal’ life. Her relationship with Reed has been tumultuous but you always feel the magnetic pull between the two that’s undeniable.
I believe this may be the final book in this series? (Am I correct Ms. Schaffhausen?) If so, I will sincerely miss all these wonderful characters. But I do appreciate how you left everything at the end. (If indeed this is the end)😉
A girl can dream…right!?💁🏻♀️🙏💖
A buddy read with Susanne. Who was by my side through this entire series, (except for book one). Susanne you really do need to go back and read how it all started….Just sayin!🤭
Posted to: https://books-are-a-girls-best-friend...
Thank you to NetGalley and Minotaur Books
January 14, 2022
One bad thing about making a deal with the devil, he always comes to collect.
And one thing is for sure: Detective Ellery Hathaway has been dealing with her past since she was fourteen years old in Chicago. She was abducted by a serial killer and lived to tell the tale. She's now a member of the Boston Police Department. Said serial killer, Francis Coben, is behind bars in a Terre Haute prison for seventeen years. Ellery owes her freedom to FBI Agent Reed Markham who rescued her, the only survivor of Coben's horrendous rampage.
Here comes that deal: The family of one of Coben's first victims just wants their daughter's body returned. Ellery and Reed visit Coben in Terre Haute trying to crack a compromise with the killer. Coben is a master of mind games and Ellery and Reed aren't sure if he's taking them on a fool's errand by digging up the acreage of the Coben farm. No telling what they'll find if anything.
Then a female body is found near a motel with all the markings of a Coben killing. Seems to be impossible with Coben locked away. A copycat situation or a deviant directed by the Coben playbook? Coben's not talking now, but no one knows him better than Ellery. And Ellery walks into his prison cell with an air of supreme confidence.......not that whimpering young girl from so long ago. But Coben is Coben.......
Joanna Schaffhausen continues the electric tale of Ellery Hathaway in this fifth edition to the series. It can be read as a standalone with the backstories filled in nicely. Included this time is Kate Hunter, a television celebrity who works at justice for victims of crimes. She's pushing the Coben case to its limits with Ellery and Reed not too pleased.
Schaffhausen keeps the pace in a frenetic mode with a wide span of characters. Last Seen Alive takes on a much darker aura than the previous novels. The crimes are more detailed and explicit. The relationship between Ellery and Reed will be pressed upon. Which leads me to believe that there may be a complete change-up in #6 or there just may not be a #6 in the future. Let's see who cracks that deal.......shall we?
I received a copy of this novel through NetGalley for an honest review. My thanks to Minotaur Books and to Joanna Schaffhausen for the opportunity.
And one thing is for sure: Detective Ellery Hathaway has been dealing with her past since she was fourteen years old in Chicago. She was abducted by a serial killer and lived to tell the tale. She's now a member of the Boston Police Department. Said serial killer, Francis Coben, is behind bars in a Terre Haute prison for seventeen years. Ellery owes her freedom to FBI Agent Reed Markham who rescued her, the only survivor of Coben's horrendous rampage.
Here comes that deal: The family of one of Coben's first victims just wants their daughter's body returned. Ellery and Reed visit Coben in Terre Haute trying to crack a compromise with the killer. Coben is a master of mind games and Ellery and Reed aren't sure if he's taking them on a fool's errand by digging up the acreage of the Coben farm. No telling what they'll find if anything.
Then a female body is found near a motel with all the markings of a Coben killing. Seems to be impossible with Coben locked away. A copycat situation or a deviant directed by the Coben playbook? Coben's not talking now, but no one knows him better than Ellery. And Ellery walks into his prison cell with an air of supreme confidence.......not that whimpering young girl from so long ago. But Coben is Coben.......
Joanna Schaffhausen continues the electric tale of Ellery Hathaway in this fifth edition to the series. It can be read as a standalone with the backstories filled in nicely. Included this time is Kate Hunter, a television celebrity who works at justice for victims of crimes. She's pushing the Coben case to its limits with Ellery and Reed not too pleased.
Schaffhausen keeps the pace in a frenetic mode with a wide span of characters. Last Seen Alive takes on a much darker aura than the previous novels. The crimes are more detailed and explicit. The relationship between Ellery and Reed will be pressed upon. Which leads me to believe that there may be a complete change-up in #6 or there just may not be a #6 in the future. Let's see who cracks that deal.......shall we?
I received a copy of this novel through NetGalley for an honest review. My thanks to Minotaur Books and to Joanna Schaffhausen for the opportunity.
May 1, 2022
“I know who you are.” “You’re the one that survived.” “Hey, you’re that girl.” “She’s the one who lived.” “She’s that girl in the closet.”
Ever since new FBI Special Agent Reed Markham followed a hunch and rescued Ellery Hathaway very near death inside a nailed closet, Ellery Hathaway learned to shut out those voices. At the same time she has learned to bear the weight of the more than sixteen girls who didn’t survive the murderous attentions of Francis Coben; and the tragedy of lives not lived.
When Ellery was fourteen years old and running loose on the hot streets of a Chicago night, Francis Coben stopped his car and grabbed her. Over three days he tortured, raped, and starved Ellery; leaving her in the blood of her dead predecessors. When Reed pried open the door Coben was close to killing Ellery and burying her on the farm no one knew he owned.
Schaffhausen, in an unusual and brilliant move, never made Francis Coben central to Ellery and Reed's story. Ever since Ellery Hathaway burst upon the scene in the heart stopping The Vanishing Season, Coben was only the back story to all of the books in the series, just enough information to explain Ellery’s oddities and her relationship to Reed.
However, Coben has hovered like a malevolent spider in the background, just waiting for his time in the spotlight. In Last Seen Alive (Ellery Hathaway #5), his time has come. The final reckoning the readers have been expecting has finally arrived.
Coben says he wants to make amends by giving up the location of the missing girls in return for a visit from Ellery. Coben has also agreed to appear on a TV show for his epic showdown with Ellery.
Now that Coben says he has something on offer, Ellery is willing to answer the pleas of the parents of the missing. Ellery and Reed have also found a new body outside of Boston with all the earmarks of a Coben kill, ending Ellery’s complete resistance to meeting with Coben..
Coben’s mistake is in thinking he is meeting with scared little Abby, he has no idea what he is getting with grown up Ellery.
Reed, Ellery and the TV show crew mistake is believing Coben doesn’t have his own plans for Ellery.
Over the series Ellery has grown and fought for normalcy. She has gone from a woman who nails her closet shut and not allowing a single person into her house to buying a loft apartment and letting all sorts of people in the front door. At the same time Reed begins to realize the FBI might be more about headlines than the work; cringing when he thinks about being was one of the worst of the headline hounds at the beginning of his career.
Last Seen Alive is terrifying but so compelling. It is stunning in it’s complexities and pain. There is something about serial killers that draw us to their stories. Maybe we look to the outstanding authors like Schaffhausen to explain the unexplainable. Maybe we just like the chills and thrills. Coben is leaving his hook on the car door; he is the clown who paints, the Candy Man, the man under our bed. If we read about Coben, maybe we don’t have to think about Bundy.
The settings are the scariest Schaffhausen has given us; the cold of a Boston winter, the barren winter scenery of rural Indiana, but mostly the hopelessness and fear rampant in the interior of an Indiana medium security prison.
Ellery and Reed are struggling to fight their way past Coben being their horrific origin story; leading surprisingly tender and amusing ending in Last Seen Alive. This ending, this book, this series will all remain as very top favorites.
Thank you to NetGalley and Minotaur Books for a review copy ARC.
Ever since new FBI Special Agent Reed Markham followed a hunch and rescued Ellery Hathaway very near death inside a nailed closet, Ellery Hathaway learned to shut out those voices. At the same time she has learned to bear the weight of the more than sixteen girls who didn’t survive the murderous attentions of Francis Coben; and the tragedy of lives not lived.
When Ellery was fourteen years old and running loose on the hot streets of a Chicago night, Francis Coben stopped his car and grabbed her. Over three days he tortured, raped, and starved Ellery; leaving her in the blood of her dead predecessors. When Reed pried open the door Coben was close to killing Ellery and burying her on the farm no one knew he owned.
Schaffhausen, in an unusual and brilliant move, never made Francis Coben central to Ellery and Reed's story. Ever since Ellery Hathaway burst upon the scene in the heart stopping The Vanishing Season, Coben was only the back story to all of the books in the series, just enough information to explain Ellery’s oddities and her relationship to Reed.
However, Coben has hovered like a malevolent spider in the background, just waiting for his time in the spotlight. In Last Seen Alive (Ellery Hathaway #5), his time has come. The final reckoning the readers have been expecting has finally arrived.
Coben says he wants to make amends by giving up the location of the missing girls in return for a visit from Ellery. Coben has also agreed to appear on a TV show for his epic showdown with Ellery.
Now that Coben says he has something on offer, Ellery is willing to answer the pleas of the parents of the missing. Ellery and Reed have also found a new body outside of Boston with all the earmarks of a Coben kill, ending Ellery’s complete resistance to meeting with Coben..
Coben’s mistake is in thinking he is meeting with scared little Abby, he has no idea what he is getting with grown up Ellery.
Reed, Ellery and the TV show crew mistake is believing Coben doesn’t have his own plans for Ellery.
Over the series Ellery has grown and fought for normalcy. She has gone from a woman who nails her closet shut and not allowing a single person into her house to buying a loft apartment and letting all sorts of people in the front door. At the same time Reed begins to realize the FBI might be more about headlines than the work; cringing when he thinks about being was one of the worst of the headline hounds at the beginning of his career.
Last Seen Alive is terrifying but so compelling. It is stunning in it’s complexities and pain. There is something about serial killers that draw us to their stories. Maybe we look to the outstanding authors like Schaffhausen to explain the unexplainable. Maybe we just like the chills and thrills. Coben is leaving his hook on the car door; he is the clown who paints, the Candy Man, the man under our bed. If we read about Coben, maybe we don’t have to think about Bundy.
The settings are the scariest Schaffhausen has given us; the cold of a Boston winter, the barren winter scenery of rural Indiana, but mostly the hopelessness and fear rampant in the interior of an Indiana medium security prison.
Ellery and Reed are struggling to fight their way past Coben being their horrific origin story; leading surprisingly tender and amusing ending in Last Seen Alive. This ending, this book, this series will all remain as very top favorites.
Thank you to NetGalley and Minotaur Books for a review copy ARC.
January 26, 2022
This is the fifth book in the Ellery Hathaway series, but it worked very well as a stand-alone novel for me.
When Ellery Hathaway, a Boston police detective was fourteen years old when FBI agent, Reed Markham saved her from Francis Coben, a twisted and vicious serial killer (is there any other kind?) As she tried to move on, Coben had a dark notoriety while in prison. Since her rescue, Markham remained in her life albeit not in the way that he would like.
Now Francis Coben is going to be interviewed and he has agreed to disclose the location of his victims’ bodies if Ellery agrees to be in his presence. Not something she wants to do. Who could blame her? She has had to bear the scars from her ordeal with him. But she wants to give the families of the victim’s closure, so she agrees.
Enter copycat killer stage left...….
As I mentioned I had not read the previous books in this series, and I was able to pick this book up and never felt as if I was missing out on anything. As the book progresses, the tension, and dread mounts. Coben is creepy and deadly on his own, but with a copycat killer out there, there is even more danger, more anxiety, and more to lose.
I enjoyed this book and it made me curious as to what happened previously in the series. I enjoyed both Ellery Hathaway and Reed Markham. Both were characters I rooted for. I enjoyed the pace of this book, nothing felt dragged out nor rushed. The book/plot was entertaining, dark, and deadly.
Thank you to Minotaur Books and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
When Ellery Hathaway, a Boston police detective was fourteen years old when FBI agent, Reed Markham saved her from Francis Coben, a twisted and vicious serial killer (is there any other kind?) As she tried to move on, Coben had a dark notoriety while in prison. Since her rescue, Markham remained in her life albeit not in the way that he would like.
Now Francis Coben is going to be interviewed and he has agreed to disclose the location of his victims’ bodies if Ellery agrees to be in his presence. Not something she wants to do. Who could blame her? She has had to bear the scars from her ordeal with him. But she wants to give the families of the victim’s closure, so she agrees.
Enter copycat killer stage left...….
As I mentioned I had not read the previous books in this series, and I was able to pick this book up and never felt as if I was missing out on anything. As the book progresses, the tension, and dread mounts. Coben is creepy and deadly on his own, but with a copycat killer out there, there is even more danger, more anxiety, and more to lose.
I enjoyed this book and it made me curious as to what happened previously in the series. I enjoyed both Ellery Hathaway and Reed Markham. Both were characters I rooted for. I enjoyed the pace of this book, nothing felt dragged out nor rushed. The book/plot was entertaining, dark, and deadly.
Thank you to Minotaur Books and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
November 19, 2021
3.5 stars, rounded up.
I’ve read another book by Joanna Schaffhausen, but none of the books in this series. I didn’t find that a handicap and feel this can easily be read as a stand-alone.
Ellery Hathaway is a Boston police detective. As a child, she was abducted by a serial killer but rescued by FBI Agent Reed Markham. They re-unite here when the serial killer offers up the locations of several missing dead girls if he can speak to her. And to add to that, there’s a tv production going to do a documentary on the killer and film it all. What could go wrong?
I liked the points she makes about fame, coverage and the prevalence of “screen time” and how the media inserts itself into criminal investigations.
I enjoyed Ellery and how we get to see how she has moved beyond her victim status. Reed is also a well done main character and I just wanted those two to work out their issues.
My problem was with the plot. It quickly became filled with coincidences and plot devices you could see coming a mile away. That said, the story is fast paced entertainment.
This is far from a cozy mystery. There are lots of graphic descriptions of violence.
My thanks to Netgalley and St. Martin’s Press for an advance copy of this book.
I’ve read another book by Joanna Schaffhausen, but none of the books in this series. I didn’t find that a handicap and feel this can easily be read as a stand-alone.
Ellery Hathaway is a Boston police detective. As a child, she was abducted by a serial killer but rescued by FBI Agent Reed Markham. They re-unite here when the serial killer offers up the locations of several missing dead girls if he can speak to her. And to add to that, there’s a tv production going to do a documentary on the killer and film it all. What could go wrong?
I liked the points she makes about fame, coverage and the prevalence of “screen time” and how the media inserts itself into criminal investigations.
I enjoyed Ellery and how we get to see how she has moved beyond her victim status. Reed is also a well done main character and I just wanted those two to work out their issues.
My problem was with the plot. It quickly became filled with coincidences and plot devices you could see coming a mile away. That said, the story is fast paced entertainment.
This is far from a cozy mystery. There are lots of graphic descriptions of violence.
My thanks to Netgalley and St. Martin’s Press for an advance copy of this book.
January 31, 2022
A FANTASTIC DETECTIVE BOOK!
Ellery Hathaway was only fourteen years old when kidnapped and brutalized by serial killer Michael Coben who had viciously murdered many other women some whose bodies have never been found. Ellery was found after three days barely alive by FBI Agent Reed Markham which then formed a lasting relationship between the two. Seventeen years later Ellery is now a police officer in Boston when Reed appears at her door telling her about a new murder with Coben's signature all.over it. Since Michael Coben is on death row it is impossible for him to have committed the murder but he must be working with a copycat and they need to find them before another woman is murdered and also Ellery's life could still be in danger again because Coben swore when he was captured that he would have Ellery again since he had unfinished business with her.
In the meantime a television true crime show wants to do another interview program with Coben behind bars but there is only one catch to the monster agreeing to the show. The one and only condition that Michael Coben demands is that Agent Reed Markham "bring his little victim that got away" to the interview. Coben says if Ellery comes to the show's recording he will finally give up where the bodies of the women that he buried can be found and finally be laid to rest. Would Ellery even think.of agreeing to an outlandish idea as this when night after night this maniac has haunted her sleep for over seventeen years?
I just loved everything about this book and couldn't turn the pages fast enough. The writing and storytelling that ebbed and flowed were just marvelously written. The author Joanna Schaffhausen created such wonderful characters (good and bad) that I felt as if I were watching a movie. I was completely engrossed into the drama and suspense of the story. I enjoyed all the twisty turns and the dark nature of entire story with a few humorous quirks of a character or two which really helped lighten some moments when the book was so dark it needed a reprieve. I can't wait to read all the books in the series and I highly recommend this book to all dark crime or detective mystery readers and this can definitely be read as a stand-alone since the author gave enough background of previous books so the reader doesn't feel as if they are playing catch-up. I have already read one book by J.S. called "Gone For Good" which I also really enjoyed and now I am definitely a confirmed fan of this author.
I want to thank first the author "Joanna Schaffhausen", the publisher " St. Martin's Press/Minotaur Books" and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this terrific and dark detective book and any thoughts or opinions expressed are unbiased and mine alone!
I have given this very dark story a rating of 4 1/2 FANTASTIC AND WONDERFUL GRITTY 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌠 STARS!!
Ellery Hathaway was only fourteen years old when kidnapped and brutalized by serial killer Michael Coben who had viciously murdered many other women some whose bodies have never been found. Ellery was found after three days barely alive by FBI Agent Reed Markham which then formed a lasting relationship between the two. Seventeen years later Ellery is now a police officer in Boston when Reed appears at her door telling her about a new murder with Coben's signature all.over it. Since Michael Coben is on death row it is impossible for him to have committed the murder but he must be working with a copycat and they need to find them before another woman is murdered and also Ellery's life could still be in danger again because Coben swore when he was captured that he would have Ellery again since he had unfinished business with her.
In the meantime a television true crime show wants to do another interview program with Coben behind bars but there is only one catch to the monster agreeing to the show. The one and only condition that Michael Coben demands is that Agent Reed Markham "bring his little victim that got away" to the interview. Coben says if Ellery comes to the show's recording he will finally give up where the bodies of the women that he buried can be found and finally be laid to rest. Would Ellery even think.of agreeing to an outlandish idea as this when night after night this maniac has haunted her sleep for over seventeen years?
I just loved everything about this book and couldn't turn the pages fast enough. The writing and storytelling that ebbed and flowed were just marvelously written. The author Joanna Schaffhausen created such wonderful characters (good and bad) that I felt as if I were watching a movie. I was completely engrossed into the drama and suspense of the story. I enjoyed all the twisty turns and the dark nature of entire story with a few humorous quirks of a character or two which really helped lighten some moments when the book was so dark it needed a reprieve. I can't wait to read all the books in the series and I highly recommend this book to all dark crime or detective mystery readers and this can definitely be read as a stand-alone since the author gave enough background of previous books so the reader doesn't feel as if they are playing catch-up. I have already read one book by J.S. called "Gone For Good" which I also really enjoyed and now I am definitely a confirmed fan of this author.
I want to thank first the author "Joanna Schaffhausen", the publisher " St. Martin's Press/Minotaur Books" and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this terrific and dark detective book and any thoughts or opinions expressed are unbiased and mine alone!
I have given this very dark story a rating of 4 1/2 FANTASTIC AND WONDERFUL GRITTY 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌠 STARS!!
June 27, 2024
3.5 stars
In this 5th book in the 'Ellery Hathaway' series, the police detective confronts the serial killer she escaped from years before. The book works fine as a standalone.
*****
At the age of fourteen, Ellery Hathaway was abducted by a sadistic serial killer who raped her, carved her up with a knife, and shut her up in a dank, putrid closet.
Ellery was on the point of death when she was rescued by FBI Agent Reed Markham.
Hathaway and Markham's names have been linked ever since in articles, books, and movies about the perpetrator, Francis Michael Coben, who murdered at least 17 girls.
The publicity adds to Ellery's distress, because people are constantly approaching her to ask questions and stare at her scars. Nevertheless, Ellery goes on to become a Boston police detective.....
.....and sometimes works on cases with her rescuer, Virginia-based Agent Reed Markham.
Years after the rescue, Ellery and Reed begin a personal relationship, but their 'hero and victim' status - and the constant pointing, staring and gossip - poison their romance. So with Ellery working in Boston and Reed working in Virginia/Washington, the investigators maintain a distance unless work brings them together.
Coben, who's been on death row for almost two decades, has always been suspected of having more victims than were found, and the missing girls' families are in limbo and suffering.
Prompted by a reality TV producer, Coben now offers to provide information about a missing girl named Tracy Trajan on the condition that Reed and Ellery visit him in prison.
The encounter would be filmed for a true crime television show and give Coben the attention he so badly craves. Reed is willing to do the interview but Ellery refuses until the aggressive smarmy TV people and Tracy's parents pressure her into agreeing.
During the prison visit Coben makes it clear he has unfinished business with Ellery, and she's glad he's sequestered from the world. Or is he?
A killing near Boston has all the earmarks of a Coben murder, and Ellery and Reed suspect Coben is the puppeteer for a copycat. The detectives make it their business to determine who the copycat is and how he/she communicates with Coben. Once the investigators figure it out, things take a dramatic and dangerous turn.
All this is very hard on Ellery, who's been trying to get out of the limelight and get on with her life.
It's tough on Reed also, who feels guilty for not having caught Coben sooner. Reed doesn't feel like a hero and shies away from the public adulation.
We get a peek into the detectives' personal lives when Ellery visits her mother in Chicago, plays with her basset hound Speed Bump, and liaises with her Boston Police Department partner Dorie.
For Reed's part, he visits with his daughter Tula and cooks delicious meals.
There's plenty of suspense and surprises in this page turner as well as blood and gore....so not for the faint-hearted. Recommended to readers who like thrillers, especially Ellery Hathaway fans.
Thanks to Netgalley, Joanna Schaffhausen, and Minotaur Books for a copy of the book.
You can follow my reviews at https://reviewsbybarbsaffer.blogspot.com
January 25, 2022
Boston Police Detective Ellery Hathaway is the sole survivor of the notorious serial killer Francis Coben who's serving life for the abduction and brutal torture and murders of at least seventeen young girls. At age fourteen, "Abby" was snatched from the street, restrained in a small closet in the blood of the girls who preceded her and heartlessly tortured. FBI Agent Reed Markham was following his gut instinct when he miraculously found and rescued her from that closet. In the years that followed, the pair formed a rocky relationship that was doomed from the start because a grown up Ellery could never completely silence the monster's voices in her head. She had a up close and personal view of Coben's face when his mask slipped and was reminded of it every night in her nightmares. Try as she may, she was unable to separate the man Reed from the rescuer Agent Reed and so they lived separate lives unless a case drew them together like now - a young woman's body has been discovered with similarities to victims of Coben. Is it a copycat killer . . . or is Coben pulling strings from inside prison. Either way, he's demanding to see Ellery, his "Abby", and he'll give up the location of some of the missing girl's bodies. And, he wants the meeting filmed live for reality TV. Can she face her torturer again . . . and survive it?
From the cold, barren setting to the multi-layered, complex plot, Last Seen Alive is very close to the perfect thriller. The pace is relentless, driving the suspense higher and higher as the meeting between a twisted serial killer and his sole remaining survivor draws near. I held my breath waiting for the other shoe to drop because it's obvious Coben has an ace up his sleeve. Sure enough, he does and Ellery is in a life or death situation once again. The character study in this book is simply outstanding. I have not read the first four books although I'll rectify that as soon as possible, but even without that firsthand background knowledge, I was blown away walking the pages with these characters as they dug in to take a monster down. The author does an amazing job of including enough backstory to make even this finicky reader comfortable with picking up the story line and proceeding. The relationship development between Ellery and Reed is touching and heartbreaking as it's clear he wants more than she may ever be able to give. Watching her search for ways to come to grips with her terrifying memories, find a way to disassociate them from Reed left me wondering if there was any hope of a future for them together. Terrifying, complex, and intense, Last Seen Alive is one not to be missed. Fans of mystery, suspense and/or thrillers are in for a real treat. I've just become a Joanna Schaffhausen fan and will be actively searching through her catalog of work. Highly recommended.
Special thanks to Minotaur Books for an arc of this book.
*Review posted at: Cross My Heart Reviews
From the cold, barren setting to the multi-layered, complex plot, Last Seen Alive is very close to the perfect thriller. The pace is relentless, driving the suspense higher and higher as the meeting between a twisted serial killer and his sole remaining survivor draws near. I held my breath waiting for the other shoe to drop because it's obvious Coben has an ace up his sleeve. Sure enough, he does and Ellery is in a life or death situation once again. The character study in this book is simply outstanding. I have not read the first four books although I'll rectify that as soon as possible, but even without that firsthand background knowledge, I was blown away walking the pages with these characters as they dug in to take a monster down. The author does an amazing job of including enough backstory to make even this finicky reader comfortable with picking up the story line and proceeding. The relationship development between Ellery and Reed is touching and heartbreaking as it's clear he wants more than she may ever be able to give. Watching her search for ways to come to grips with her terrifying memories, find a way to disassociate them from Reed left me wondering if there was any hope of a future for them together. Terrifying, complex, and intense, Last Seen Alive is one not to be missed. Fans of mystery, suspense and/or thrillers are in for a real treat. I've just become a Joanna Schaffhausen fan and will be actively searching through her catalog of work. Highly recommended.
Special thanks to Minotaur Books for an arc of this book.
*Review posted at: Cross My Heart Reviews
January 3, 2022
Thanks to Netgalley and St. Martin's Press for an egalley in exchange for an honest review.
One of my highly anticipated reads of 2022 was the fifth book in the Ellery Hathaway series. Months after their split, FBI agent Reed Markham still cannot stop thinking of Ellery. When Reed is approached by a true crime series host with information that the next feature is on Francis Coben, Reed feels that it cannot get any worse. But someone is working behind the scenes to have Coben released from prison and force a final showdown with Ellery.
Just a highly enjoyable series and the characters of Reed and Ellery are perhaps one of my favorite literary FBI/police duos in today’s popular thrillers. As I reached the end of the novel, I really hope that we shall see other books in the series.
Expected Publication date 25/01/22
Goodreads review published 03/01/22
One of my highly anticipated reads of 2022 was the fifth book in the Ellery Hathaway series. Months after their split, FBI agent Reed Markham still cannot stop thinking of Ellery. When Reed is approached by a true crime series host with information that the next feature is on Francis Coben, Reed feels that it cannot get any worse. But someone is working behind the scenes to have Coben released from prison and force a final showdown with Ellery.
Just a highly enjoyable series and the characters of Reed and Ellery are perhaps one of my favorite literary FBI/police duos in today’s popular thrillers. As I reached the end of the novel, I really hope that we shall see other books in the series.
Expected Publication date 25/01/22
Goodreads review published 03/01/22
January 25, 2022
Joanna Schaffhausen creates some heart-pounding scenes with each book I've read of hers. I'm not usually a series reader, so you can read this one easily as a standalone. Some horrifying scenes are played out for a 14 year old teenager when she was rescued from a serial killer. Locked in a closet and horribly mutilated, Ellery is pried from a closet by FBI agent Reed Markham. A relationship builds with the two of them when she is older.
The capture of the killer, Francis Coben, is caught and locked away, although he is committed to keeping his silence and deny the families closure for his horrendous acts against women.
Ellery is a detective now and is coerced or convinced if she will indulge Coben in a Q&A in prison, he will reveal where the bodies have been hidden. She agrees and will soon be regretting this Hannibal Lecter scene, which is both bone chilling and disturbing. The families of the lost girls demanded the interview to help them seek justice for their loved ones, so she does it out of guilt. When a new victim has surfaced, her interview to Coben might help solve the copy cat killing, but at the expense of her own safety.
This is gruesome and may not be for all. I had a hard time stomaching some of it, especially Ellery's description of her experience in captivity. This edge of the seat thriller will have you seeking justice for the families and especially Ellery.
Thank you NetGalley for this title in exchange for my honest review.
The capture of the killer, Francis Coben, is caught and locked away, although he is committed to keeping his silence and deny the families closure for his horrendous acts against women.
Ellery is a detective now and is coerced or convinced if she will indulge Coben in a Q&A in prison, he will reveal where the bodies have been hidden. She agrees and will soon be regretting this Hannibal Lecter scene, which is both bone chilling and disturbing. The families of the lost girls demanded the interview to help them seek justice for their loved ones, so she does it out of guilt. When a new victim has surfaced, her interview to Coben might help solve the copy cat killing, but at the expense of her own safety.
This is gruesome and may not be for all. I had a hard time stomaching some of it, especially Ellery's description of her experience in captivity. This edge of the seat thriller will have you seeking justice for the families and especially Ellery.
Thank you NetGalley for this title in exchange for my honest review.
January 25, 2022
3.75 Serial Killer Stars
Now available!
This is the 5th installment in this series featuring Ellery Hathaway, now a Boston police officer, but better known as the girl who survived serial killer Francis Coben. This book actually provides more details about the abduction and her rescue by FBI profiler Reed Markham.
Years later, Reed and Ellery have successfully teamed up on several cases and have even developed a romantic relationship.
This time Coben says he will tell them where to find one of the bodies if Ellery pays him a visit. Families of the missing girls and the media pressure Ellery. There’s even a film producer who wants to film the whole thing. Can Ellery do this without falling back into a victim mentality? Can they truly trust Coben to follow through on his side?
I found this one to be darker than the earlier books and there was more urgency to finally stop Coben. This one wrapped up in a satisfying way to me and I wonder if this might be the end of the Ellery Hathaway series.
This series has made for a good buddy read with Jayme and Marilyn. Be sure to check out their reviews on this one and the whole series. While it was nice to read them in a short period, I’m looking forward to reading other things by this author.
My thanks to Minotaur Books and NetGalley for the early copy to read.
Now available!
This is the 5th installment in this series featuring Ellery Hathaway, now a Boston police officer, but better known as the girl who survived serial killer Francis Coben. This book actually provides more details about the abduction and her rescue by FBI profiler Reed Markham.
Years later, Reed and Ellery have successfully teamed up on several cases and have even developed a romantic relationship.
This time Coben says he will tell them where to find one of the bodies if Ellery pays him a visit. Families of the missing girls and the media pressure Ellery. There’s even a film producer who wants to film the whole thing. Can Ellery do this without falling back into a victim mentality? Can they truly trust Coben to follow through on his side?
I found this one to be darker than the earlier books and there was more urgency to finally stop Coben. This one wrapped up in a satisfying way to me and I wonder if this might be the end of the Ellery Hathaway series.
This series has made for a good buddy read with Jayme and Marilyn. Be sure to check out their reviews on this one and the whole series. While it was nice to read them in a short period, I’m looking forward to reading other things by this author.
My thanks to Minotaur Books and NetGalley for the early copy to read.
January 23, 2022
Review posted to blog.: https://books-are-a-girls-best-friend...
Wowza.
Seventeen years after being abducted by Francis Coben, Ellery Hathaway comes face to face with him yet again.
Tense, taut, and thrilling, we knew this moment would come, we just didn’t know how it would happen.
After what happened all those years ago, Ellery Hathway became a detective fighting crime and saving others like her. Ever since that fateful day, Reed Markham has been by her side, one way or the other. Now the two of them come together again to face the one man who brought them together in the first place.
Last Seen Alive is a doozy, my friends. Terrifying, action-packed, twisty, and turny. This one will leave you breathless, in more ways than one.
Ellery Hathaway and Reed Markham are two of my favorite characters and I so appreciate how their story has developed.
This was a buddy read with Kaceey and was one we really enjoyed.
Big thanks to NetGalley and Minotaur Books for the arc.
Published on Goodreads and Twitter.
Wowza.
Seventeen years after being abducted by Francis Coben, Ellery Hathaway comes face to face with him yet again.
Tense, taut, and thrilling, we knew this moment would come, we just didn’t know how it would happen.
After what happened all those years ago, Ellery Hathway became a detective fighting crime and saving others like her. Ever since that fateful day, Reed Markham has been by her side, one way or the other. Now the two of them come together again to face the one man who brought them together in the first place.
Last Seen Alive is a doozy, my friends. Terrifying, action-packed, twisty, and turny. This one will leave you breathless, in more ways than one.
Ellery Hathaway and Reed Markham are two of my favorite characters and I so appreciate how their story has developed.
This was a buddy read with Kaceey and was one we really enjoyed.
Big thanks to NetGalley and Minotaur Books for the arc.
Published on Goodreads and Twitter.
February 3, 2022
Another great installment to the Hathaway series which deal with the surviving victim versus the serial killer. Every book in this series the author didn’t fail to surprise me with where the story was heading. This story seemed to remind readers that it’s okay to sometimes do things you’re told not to. That’s how you stand out and that’s how you succeed. Reed followed his gut feeling and became the hero. Ellery seemed reckless sometimes for not being able to stay put to keep herself safe but I’m glad she found a way to save herself in the end. I liked the reminder that wicked people can be found hiding underneath a handsome exterior, intellectual, and wealth. It helps us to beware of strangers in every form not just the creepy looking ones. All well liked characters and good humor. Dorie’s my favorite. I enjoyed the suspense and thrill ride especially when the killer was on the loose. There were some good twists I was not expecting.
This book started with a prologue following Abby after she was rescued at age 14 by Agent Markham. He went to check up on her and informed her that Coben, the man who kidnapped her and tortured her was now locked up. Then the story began with Reed as he wait in line for his morning coffee. It’s been 17 years now that Coben had been locked up. Reed was contacted by Coben recently as well as the crime TV host, Kate. She was given a new victim name by Coben, but Reed didn’t recognize. The alternative view was Ellery. She was with Evan after her date when she caught sight of Reed at her door. She hadn’t seen him for 5 months since they broke up. Reed told Ellery about Kate wanting to put Coben on TV and that Coben wanted Ellery present. Reed told Ellery of the new victim and Ellery recognized that name. They both went to the victim’s house and was surprised by their discovery. At first Ellery resisted seeing her torturer Coben after 17 years, but later decided to go because she wanted to question him about his first and last victim. The story ended with an epilogue.
Last Seen Alive was well written and a fast paced read. I enjoyed the love story in this series and I’m glad there’s a happy ending. My heart was breaking for Reed so many times in this one but I’m glad he got rewarded for his patience. He’s definitely a great guy. Good dad and attentive boyfriend but also very good with his job. I enjoyed the investigation, strategizing, and clues. The ending was great. I agreed with Ellery. There’s no punishment in a quick death so leave the killer in jail is the way to go. I wouldn’t say that this read was gruesome but there were blood and body parts mentioned; however, readers were spared the details of the torture as it happened. I totally forgot about what’s in the freezer when I went for ice cream yesterday but I wouldn’t guarantee you will forget that image! A series but each book can be read as a standalone.
xoxo, Jasmine at www.howusefulitis.com for more details
Many thanks to Minotaur Books for the opportunity to read and review. Please be assured that my opinions are honest.
This book started with a prologue following Abby after she was rescued at age 14 by Agent Markham. He went to check up on her and informed her that Coben, the man who kidnapped her and tortured her was now locked up. Then the story began with Reed as he wait in line for his morning coffee. It’s been 17 years now that Coben had been locked up. Reed was contacted by Coben recently as well as the crime TV host, Kate. She was given a new victim name by Coben, but Reed didn’t recognize. The alternative view was Ellery. She was with Evan after her date when she caught sight of Reed at her door. She hadn’t seen him for 5 months since they broke up. Reed told Ellery about Kate wanting to put Coben on TV and that Coben wanted Ellery present. Reed told Ellery of the new victim and Ellery recognized that name. They both went to the victim’s house and was surprised by their discovery. At first Ellery resisted seeing her torturer Coben after 17 years, but later decided to go because she wanted to question him about his first and last victim. The story ended with an epilogue.
Last Seen Alive was well written and a fast paced read. I enjoyed the love story in this series and I’m glad there’s a happy ending. My heart was breaking for Reed so many times in this one but I’m glad he got rewarded for his patience. He’s definitely a great guy. Good dad and attentive boyfriend but also very good with his job. I enjoyed the investigation, strategizing, and clues. The ending was great. I agreed with Ellery. There’s no punishment in a quick death so leave the killer in jail is the way to go. I wouldn’t say that this read was gruesome but there were blood and body parts mentioned; however, readers were spared the details of the torture as it happened. I totally forgot about what’s in the freezer when I went for ice cream yesterday but I wouldn’t guarantee you will forget that image! A series but each book can be read as a standalone.
xoxo, Jasmine at www.howusefulitis.com for more details
Many thanks to Minotaur Books for the opportunity to read and review. Please be assured that my opinions are honest.
November 28, 2021
Last Seen Alive, book 5 in the Ellery Hathaway series is just brilliant! I have loved everything about this ride and now it feels we have come full circle. I was sad when I finished it but satisfied with all that had happened.
This is a hard book to review without spoilers. This one could be read as a standalone but I highly recommend reading the entire series in order. There is so much to Ellery and Reed as well as our serial killer Francis Cohen. In this book we learn alot more about Cohen and how is mind works. He reaches out to Reed and offers to give up the locations of the bodies, in exchange for a face to face meeting with Ellery. It has been 17 years and while she knows that the victims families need closure, it is one of the hardest things she has to do.
I loved these characters and all that they had been through. The storylines, their relationships - everything. A fantastic serial killer and police procedural series that you need to read.
Thanks to Netgalley and St Martin's Press for my advanced copy of this book to read.
This is a hard book to review without spoilers. This one could be read as a standalone but I highly recommend reading the entire series in order. There is so much to Ellery and Reed as well as our serial killer Francis Cohen. In this book we learn alot more about Cohen and how is mind works. He reaches out to Reed and offers to give up the locations of the bodies, in exchange for a face to face meeting with Ellery. It has been 17 years and while she knows that the victims families need closure, it is one of the hardest things she has to do.
I loved these characters and all that they had been through. The storylines, their relationships - everything. A fantastic serial killer and police procedural series that you need to read.
Thanks to Netgalley and St Martin's Press for my advanced copy of this book to read.
January 28, 2022
Ellery Hathaway met Reed Markham years ago as a teen when he pulled open a closet, freeing her from a serial killer. She was Francis Coben's only survivor. Now Ellery and Reed have an intense history. And Coben, who is in prison, wants Ellery back. He'll reveal the location of his remaining victims only if Reed brings Ellery to visit. What follows is a bittersweet and terrifying tale as Ellery must once again face her demons.
"The monster was still out there breathing the same air. No wonder there was a huge crowd at her door. Of course, everyone wanted a picture. The story wasn't finished."
I loved every single thing about this book (even all the murderous killing bits). I adore Ellery and Reed, and this was a perfect addition to the series. This is the fifth book in the series. You can catch up easily if you haven't read the first four books, but I highly recommend reading them, because they are excellent.
This is a dark and emotional read. Coben is on death row, and with some women--potential victims--still missing, his only power remains in knowing their location. He holds this over Ellery and Reed's heads, forcing Ellery to reconcile her desire to stay away from her tormentor and hold on to her shreds of privacy versus her need to find these women. Schaffhausen does such an excellent job at portraying how awful Coben is. We always knew how terrible he made Ellery's existence, but we see now how horrific he is--gaining both more details about his past and the present.
"You cannot call up the devil and ask him to dance."
Also in the present, more women go missing, in a similar fashion to Coben's previous victims. With Coben in prison, it cannot be him, so Reed, Ellery, and Ellery's partner Dorie investigate. Also on the scene is a reporter, Kate, and a movie producer, Ben, who want to film Coben in prison. All of this combines for a fascinating story that weaves in Coben and a new murderer. There's excellent descriptions of Chicago as Ellery returns home, for the first time, to help investigate Coben. And I love her dynamic with Dorie.
The book makes some excellent points about society's obsession with true crime and what it does to the real victims. It explores Reed and Ellery's relationship from a variety of angles and gives us a lot of insight into how Ellery became who is she is. She's such a strong, brave character, and it's a pleasure to read about her. Combining her strength with such a twisty and dark plot makes for a wonderful read. 4.5 stars.
I received a copy of this book from St. Martin's Press / Minotaur Books and Netgalley in return for an unbiased review.
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"The monster was still out there breathing the same air. No wonder there was a huge crowd at her door. Of course, everyone wanted a picture. The story wasn't finished."
I loved every single thing about this book (even all the murderous killing bits). I adore Ellery and Reed, and this was a perfect addition to the series. This is the fifth book in the series. You can catch up easily if you haven't read the first four books, but I highly recommend reading them, because they are excellent.
This is a dark and emotional read. Coben is on death row, and with some women--potential victims--still missing, his only power remains in knowing their location. He holds this over Ellery and Reed's heads, forcing Ellery to reconcile her desire to stay away from her tormentor and hold on to her shreds of privacy versus her need to find these women. Schaffhausen does such an excellent job at portraying how awful Coben is. We always knew how terrible he made Ellery's existence, but we see now how horrific he is--gaining both more details about his past and the present.
"You cannot call up the devil and ask him to dance."
Also in the present, more women go missing, in a similar fashion to Coben's previous victims. With Coben in prison, it cannot be him, so Reed, Ellery, and Ellery's partner Dorie investigate. Also on the scene is a reporter, Kate, and a movie producer, Ben, who want to film Coben in prison. All of this combines for a fascinating story that weaves in Coben and a new murderer. There's excellent descriptions of Chicago as Ellery returns home, for the first time, to help investigate Coben. And I love her dynamic with Dorie.
The book makes some excellent points about society's obsession with true crime and what it does to the real victims. It explores Reed and Ellery's relationship from a variety of angles and gives us a lot of insight into how Ellery became who is she is. She's such a strong, brave character, and it's a pleasure to read about her. Combining her strength with such a twisty and dark plot makes for a wonderful read. 4.5 stars.
I received a copy of this book from St. Martin's Press / Minotaur Books and Netgalley in return for an unbiased review.
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December 14, 2021
My thanks to Joanna Schaffhausen, St. Martin's Press and Netgalley. First of all, I'm not with everyone else who is jumping on the bandwagon. I had some issues with this story. Most of them weren't with the characters. It was actually with the author. I know there is a Latin phrase for it. I call it "The monster in the machine." Some call it god. Maybe it's the same. Either way, it's annoying . Loved the M.C.'s. Even though they did stupid stuff. Again, obvious author stuff. I expect the machine stuff in horror, supernatural etc.. Not serious stuff like this. I still loved the book. I'm also not one to go gaga over a man, but Reed was kinda wowsers! So, yeah. A bit gaga!
September 27, 2021
If you’re looking for suspense, a truly delightful pair of protagonists, and a serial killer story that won’t leave you feeling tired of the same old tropes – Last Seen Alive is the book you’ve been looking for.
This book may be the fifth in the Ellery Hathaway series from Joanna Schaffhausen, but whether you’re an established reader or just discovering the series now, you’ll have no problem jumping right in. Naturally, as someone who has really enjoyed these books, I have to – and gladly do – advocate for starting from the first book – but the prologue here establishes enough background for newcomers.
Ellery Hathaway is the only survivor of a notorious serial killer, and has since worked on multiple cases with the FBI agent who rescued her from his clutches, Reed Markham. Last Seen Alive, though, begins with them apart; at least until it becomes clear that the same man whose monstrous nature first brought them together isn’t satisfied to stay in the past.
Taking a classic storyline, turning it on its head, and then writing it absolutely beautifully is no more than I should have expected from this author, but I was still blown away by just how good this book is. Joanna Schaffhausen has written the series in such a way that this feels like a natural climax; we know these characters, we know the story so far, and the events of this novel not only fit in to the story, but take it further and somehow take it to even further heights.
I’d also be remiss not to point out that there’s also a welcome deviation from the “serial killer as twisted genius” trope. Recently, we’ve seen more media embracing a more victim-focused approach; this series has done so all along, but it’s taken even further in Last Seen Alive. It’s always refreshing, but it does require a balance to be struck between those considerations and the entertainment value of the story. This book could serve as the masterclass on walking that line – the pace of this electrifying novel never once dipped.
An absolutely excellent book, Last Seen Alive deserves to be seen as the benchmark for the thriller genre – Joanna Schaffhausen is quickly establishing herself as a major voice. I don't know if this is the end of the series (though it seems like a natural one if it is), but I'll be picking up whatever she releases next.
This book may be the fifth in the Ellery Hathaway series from Joanna Schaffhausen, but whether you’re an established reader or just discovering the series now, you’ll have no problem jumping right in. Naturally, as someone who has really enjoyed these books, I have to – and gladly do – advocate for starting from the first book – but the prologue here establishes enough background for newcomers.
Ellery Hathaway is the only survivor of a notorious serial killer, and has since worked on multiple cases with the FBI agent who rescued her from his clutches, Reed Markham. Last Seen Alive, though, begins with them apart; at least until it becomes clear that the same man whose monstrous nature first brought them together isn’t satisfied to stay in the past.
Taking a classic storyline, turning it on its head, and then writing it absolutely beautifully is no more than I should have expected from this author, but I was still blown away by just how good this book is. Joanna Schaffhausen has written the series in such a way that this feels like a natural climax; we know these characters, we know the story so far, and the events of this novel not only fit in to the story, but take it further and somehow take it to even further heights.
I’d also be remiss not to point out that there’s also a welcome deviation from the “serial killer as twisted genius” trope. Recently, we’ve seen more media embracing a more victim-focused approach; this series has done so all along, but it’s taken even further in Last Seen Alive. It’s always refreshing, but it does require a balance to be struck between those considerations and the entertainment value of the story. This book could serve as the masterclass on walking that line – the pace of this electrifying novel never once dipped.
An absolutely excellent book, Last Seen Alive deserves to be seen as the benchmark for the thriller genre – Joanna Schaffhausen is quickly establishing herself as a major voice. I don't know if this is the end of the series (though it seems like a natural one if it is), but I'll be picking up whatever she releases next.
February 17, 2023
Review coming soon.
February 6, 2022
I won a copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway so my thanks to Goodreads and to Minotaur Books. All opinions expressed are my own.
Since I hadn't read any of the previous books in the series and this is book 5, I borrowed #1 from the library so that I would have a basic understanding of the characters and the background and I really enjoyed it. To recap briefly, Ellery (Ellie) Hathaway, now a Boston detective, was once a victim - the only one who lived - of imprisoned serial killer Francis Michael Coben. Reed Markham is the FBI agent who rescued her when he pried open the serial killer’s closet.
Book #5 seemed to pick up where I left off in Book #1 so that was kind of neat. Obviously there were some developments in the relationship between Ellery and Reed in the three books in between and I was actually a bit disappointed to discover that they had been having quite the torrid love affair. I don't like it when characters in a series start sleeping together; in fact I prefer to have little or no romance in my police procedurals or at least do it off-page! Anyway, the bodies of many of Coben's victims have never been found but he has agreed to give up their locations as long as Ellery stays involved. As well, there appears to be a copycat killer in the area.
This author writes a very smooth book as well as believable characters and circumstances. To be honest, I didn't find this book all that exciting until the last hundred pages or so but it still held my interest throughout. The chapters are shorter than the first book but still too long for my liking. If there's a Book 6 I don't think I'd read it (unless I win another giveaway!). 3.5 Stars rounded down!
Since I hadn't read any of the previous books in the series and this is book 5, I borrowed #1 from the library so that I would have a basic understanding of the characters and the background and I really enjoyed it. To recap briefly, Ellery (Ellie) Hathaway, now a Boston detective, was once a victim - the only one who lived - of imprisoned serial killer Francis Michael Coben. Reed Markham is the FBI agent who rescued her when he pried open the serial killer’s closet.
Book #5 seemed to pick up where I left off in Book #1 so that was kind of neat. Obviously there were some developments in the relationship between Ellery and Reed in the three books in between and I was actually a bit disappointed to discover that they had been having quite the torrid love affair. I don't like it when characters in a series start sleeping together; in fact I prefer to have little or no romance in my police procedurals or at least do it off-page! Anyway, the bodies of many of Coben's victims have never been found but he has agreed to give up their locations as long as Ellery stays involved. As well, there appears to be a copycat killer in the area.
This author writes a very smooth book as well as believable characters and circumstances. To be honest, I didn't find this book all that exciting until the last hundred pages or so but it still held my interest throughout. The chapters are shorter than the first book but still too long for my liking. If there's a Book 6 I don't think I'd read it (unless I win another giveaway!). 3.5 Stars rounded down!
April 3, 2022
LAST SEEN ALIVE by Joanna Schaffhausen
Publication: 1/25/22 by St.Martin’s Press / Minotaur Books
Jump on the roller coaster world of Ellery Hathaway. A riveting police procedural that transitions to a taut psychological thriller. This is the Fifth book in Schaffhausen’s signature series …. I‘ve been on the ride for all …. each novel can be read as a stand alone since the author seamlessly provides the necessary back story. Ellery was only fourteen years old when kidnapped, tortured, and raped by the fiendish serial killer, Francis Michael Coben. She was the only women to survive, when she was rescued from the killer’s closet by FBI profiler Reed Markham. Night after night Coben has haunted her dreams for over seventeen years. She originally bonded with Markham, however severed these ties in an attempt to move on with her life. She has forged a distinguished career, originally as an unconventional policemen , and now an accomplished Boston detective. Ellery has first hand knowledge of serial killers, being the only victim to survive the heinous rampage of the notorious Francis Coben, who has been rotting on death row. Markham arrives at her door step with an unthinkable proposition. Coben has agreed to reveal, only to her, where the remains of the previously unfound victims reside, if she agrees to meet with him. Echoing in her mind …. Coben swore when he was captured that he would have Ellery again since he had unfinished business with her. Noted media star Kate Hunter has engineered the televised media event with Coben and Ellery interacting. Another victim has been murdered with Coben’s signature style … including the amputation of her hands. Ellery can’t pass up this opportunity. How is the copycat killer in contact with Coben on death row. And, the families of the missing victims are crying out for closure. Ellery agrees to the confrontation …. which in a “cat and mouse” game is reminiscent of the encounter of Clarice Starling with Hannibal Lecter in “The Silence of The Lamb”. What is Coben’s motivation for this televised media event. Can it be just continued notoriety?
Schaffhausen proves to be a master storyteller and she crafts a compelling thriller, following the twisted trail with hidden bread crumbs of clues that lead to escalating tension and intrigue and culminates in an explosive conclusion. Her concise and gritty prose is utilized to develop multi-dimensional layered characters that are relatable and are not mere cardboard cutouts. I envy the new reader, who can now binge read the other Ellery Hathaway novels.
Thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press / Minotaur Books for supplying an Uncorrected Proof in exchange for an honest review.
Publication: 1/25/22 by St.Martin’s Press / Minotaur Books
Jump on the roller coaster world of Ellery Hathaway. A riveting police procedural that transitions to a taut psychological thriller. This is the Fifth book in Schaffhausen’s signature series …. I‘ve been on the ride for all …. each novel can be read as a stand alone since the author seamlessly provides the necessary back story. Ellery was only fourteen years old when kidnapped, tortured, and raped by the fiendish serial killer, Francis Michael Coben. She was the only women to survive, when she was rescued from the killer’s closet by FBI profiler Reed Markham. Night after night Coben has haunted her dreams for over seventeen years. She originally bonded with Markham, however severed these ties in an attempt to move on with her life. She has forged a distinguished career, originally as an unconventional policemen , and now an accomplished Boston detective. Ellery has first hand knowledge of serial killers, being the only victim to survive the heinous rampage of the notorious Francis Coben, who has been rotting on death row. Markham arrives at her door step with an unthinkable proposition. Coben has agreed to reveal, only to her, where the remains of the previously unfound victims reside, if she agrees to meet with him. Echoing in her mind …. Coben swore when he was captured that he would have Ellery again since he had unfinished business with her. Noted media star Kate Hunter has engineered the televised media event with Coben and Ellery interacting. Another victim has been murdered with Coben’s signature style … including the amputation of her hands. Ellery can’t pass up this opportunity. How is the copycat killer in contact with Coben on death row. And, the families of the missing victims are crying out for closure. Ellery agrees to the confrontation …. which in a “cat and mouse” game is reminiscent of the encounter of Clarice Starling with Hannibal Lecter in “The Silence of The Lamb”. What is Coben’s motivation for this televised media event. Can it be just continued notoriety?
Schaffhausen proves to be a master storyteller and she crafts a compelling thriller, following the twisted trail with hidden bread crumbs of clues that lead to escalating tension and intrigue and culminates in an explosive conclusion. Her concise and gritty prose is utilized to develop multi-dimensional layered characters that are relatable and are not mere cardboard cutouts. I envy the new reader, who can now binge read the other Ellery Hathaway novels.
Thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press / Minotaur Books for supplying an Uncorrected Proof in exchange for an honest review.
January 20, 2022
I received a free e-copy of Last Seen Alive (Ellery Hathaway, #5) by Joanna Schaffhausen from NetGalley for my honest review.
I have absolutely loved all of Joanna Schaffhausen's books. This one, just like the others, did not disappoint. Great characters, amazing story line and a book I couldn't put down.
Ellery is a police officer with an awful past. She was a victim who survived a serial killer at the age of 14. Now, 20 years later, the serial killer wants to finish the job. He says he will only tell Ellery where the other victims are if she meets with him face to face. Fast paced and bone chilling!
I have absolutely loved all of Joanna Schaffhausen's books. This one, just like the others, did not disappoint. Great characters, amazing story line and a book I couldn't put down.
Ellery is a police officer with an awful past. She was a victim who survived a serial killer at the age of 14. Now, 20 years later, the serial killer wants to finish the job. He says he will only tell Ellery where the other victims are if she meets with him face to face. Fast paced and bone chilling!
February 3, 2022
I’ve been loving the Ellery Hathaway series. Book five, Last Seen Alive was an exciting installment (conclusion?) that I didn’t want to put down!
When the evil Francis Coban, Ellery’s now imprisoned captor, offers up the location of one of the murder victims never found only if Ellery comes to see him, she must facedown her tormentor. It’s the situation I knew would come eventually and things did play out a bit predictably with Coban. I was disappointed by TSTL moves by Ellery, and really, I wondered how she didn’t clue in on the identity of the person helping Coban! Even with all that, the story was thrilling! I was on the edge of my seat, and I had to set everything aside so I could read through to the end! I’m happy with how it all turned out.
There is a new mystery introduced and solved with each book, but with Ellery’s history and the progression of her relationship with Reed, (the FBI agent who originally rescued her from Coban), it’s a series best read in order.
I went back and forth between an e-copy and audio version. Seth Podowitz did a wonderful job with both male and female voices. I enjoyed Danielle Gensler's female voices, but wasn't thrilled with her performance of Coben's voice. Still, I'd recommend the audio version. I listened at 1.5x normal speed.
An e-copy was kindly provided by Minotaur books in exchange for an honest review. I purchased the audio version.
When the evil Francis Coban, Ellery’s now imprisoned captor, offers up the location of one of the murder victims never found only if Ellery comes to see him, she must facedown her tormentor. It’s the situation I knew would come eventually and things did play out a bit predictably with Coban. I was disappointed by TSTL moves by Ellery, and really, I wondered how she didn’t clue in on the identity of the person helping Coban! Even with all that, the story was thrilling! I was on the edge of my seat, and I had to set everything aside so I could read through to the end! I’m happy with how it all turned out.
There is a new mystery introduced and solved with each book, but with Ellery’s history and the progression of her relationship with Reed, (the FBI agent who originally rescued her from Coban), it’s a series best read in order.
I went back and forth between an e-copy and audio version. Seth Podowitz did a wonderful job with both male and female voices. I enjoyed Danielle Gensler's female voices, but wasn't thrilled with her performance of Coben's voice. Still, I'd recommend the audio version. I listened at 1.5x normal speed.
An e-copy was kindly provided by Minotaur books in exchange for an honest review. I purchased the audio version.
December 17, 2021
I like Schaffhausen’s works and because I had read a few disappointing novels in a row, I chose this as my next read. This is the fifth in the Ellery Hathaway/Reed Markham series; it is the third that I have read. As a young teenager, Ellery was kidnapped, raped, and tortured by a serial killer; she was rescued by FBI agent Markham. Now an adult, Hathaway has become a police officer in Boston. The relationship between the two has had ups and downs, affected by the traumatic after effects of her ordeal.
Reunited again when the imprisoned monster is willing to give information about another victim if Ellery visits him and the media wants to film it, Hathaway and Markham make a good team. Although the story is a bit of a stretch and quite graphic, it is still a can’t put down engrossing read. It also says a lot about how the media plays with the lives of victims. As usual, there is great character development and it is interesting to see how both Ellery and Markham have grown over the years.
Although this could work as a standalone, I think one would get more out of it if at least a few of the prior novels have been read. Schaffhausen is a good writer and if this genre appeals to you, her books are worth a read.
Reunited again when the imprisoned monster is willing to give information about another victim if Ellery visits him and the media wants to film it, Hathaway and Markham make a good team. Although the story is a bit of a stretch and quite graphic, it is still a can’t put down engrossing read. It also says a lot about how the media plays with the lives of victims. As usual, there is great character development and it is interesting to see how both Ellery and Markham have grown over the years.
Although this could work as a standalone, I think one would get more out of it if at least a few of the prior novels have been read. Schaffhausen is a good writer and if this genre appeals to you, her books are worth a read.
January 27, 2022
4.5 Confrontation Stars
* * * * 1/2 Spoiler Free- A Quick Review
I happen to love this series. I did miss the 4th entry but overall, I have been all in. Our main character, Boston detective Ellery Hathaway is not like any other detective. Her history is ugly and tied to being a survivor of a serial killer who would chop off the hands of his captures. He liked them young and was excellent in his pursuit.
Ellery was "saved" by FBI agent Reed, although, Reed would debate that Ellery saved herself by fighting and using her will to outlast the monster. Although Reed brought in Francis Coben, did the trial, and put him on death row, there are still answers the many victims' families want to know, Mainly, where are their daughters buried.
Corbin has decided he has the elements to lure Ellery into talking with him, only her, by saying he will share where his victims are. Oh, and an award-winning director/producer paired with a TV personality are doing the special of the interview. All of this has been sprung on Redd and Ellery.
Normally, both would not get involved but Corbin has added an extra incentive...causing Ellery not to be able to walk away.
Oh, this tale! So much to deal with, so many levels of pain and insight. Yes, there are ways to figure out ahead of time what may happen...BUT, I love these characters also much, I really didn't care.
A Very Engaging Read.
~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
Going in!
The Vanishing Season (Ellery Hathaway, #1)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
No Mercy (Ellery Hathaway, #2)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
All the Best Lies (Ellery Hathaway, #3)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Every Waking Hour (Ellery Hathaway, #4)
Last Seen Alive (Ellery Hathaway, #5)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
A gifted copy was provided by St. Martin's Press via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * * 1/2 Spoiler Free- A Quick Review
I happen to love this series. I did miss the 4th entry but overall, I have been all in. Our main character, Boston detective Ellery Hathaway is not like any other detective. Her history is ugly and tied to being a survivor of a serial killer who would chop off the hands of his captures. He liked them young and was excellent in his pursuit.
Ellery was "saved" by FBI agent Reed, although, Reed would debate that Ellery saved herself by fighting and using her will to outlast the monster. Although Reed brought in Francis Coben, did the trial, and put him on death row, there are still answers the many victims' families want to know, Mainly, where are their daughters buried.
Corbin has decided he has the elements to lure Ellery into talking with him, only her, by saying he will share where his victims are. Oh, and an award-winning director/producer paired with a TV personality are doing the special of the interview. All of this has been sprung on Redd and Ellery.
Normally, both would not get involved but Corbin has added an extra incentive...causing Ellery not to be able to walk away.
Oh, this tale! So much to deal with, so many levels of pain and insight. Yes, there are ways to figure out ahead of time what may happen...BUT, I love these characters also much, I really didn't care.
A Very Engaging Read.
~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
Going in!
The Vanishing Season (Ellery Hathaway, #1)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
No Mercy (Ellery Hathaway, #2)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
All the Best Lies (Ellery Hathaway, #3)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Every Waking Hour (Ellery Hathaway, #4) Last Seen Alive (Ellery Hathaway, #5)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
A gifted copy was provided by St. Martin's Press via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
January 27, 2022
WOW!! Heart pounding!!
Ellery, Reed, and Coben are together again and not for anything good.
Ellery is the only victim of serial killer Francis Coben who survived because Reed found her locked in a closet on the Coben family's farm.
Ellery was 14 when Coben abducted and tortured her, and she was not his first victim.
Coben has been in prison for 17 years, but when a similar-style murder is discovered while he is in prison, someone else must have been in touch with Coben, but who could that be?
Ellery and Reed meet with Coben in prison because he said he would tell where one of his victims is if Ellery visits him.
Ellery reluctantly agrees, and it doesn't go well. Coben wants her since he couldn’t finish what he started all those years ago.
We follow Ellery and Reed as they reconnect and as they work together to find another victim's body so the family has closure.
During their search something major happens elsewhere.
You will be glued to the pages and thinking about the book even when you aren’t reading it.
Tense, tense, tense and excellent as all of Joanna’s books.
Fans don’t want to miss this one.
This book was given to me by publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Ellery, Reed, and Coben are together again and not for anything good.
Ellery is the only victim of serial killer Francis Coben who survived because Reed found her locked in a closet on the Coben family's farm.
Ellery was 14 when Coben abducted and tortured her, and she was not his first victim.
Coben has been in prison for 17 years, but when a similar-style murder is discovered while he is in prison, someone else must have been in touch with Coben, but who could that be?
Ellery and Reed meet with Coben in prison because he said he would tell where one of his victims is if Ellery visits him.
Ellery reluctantly agrees, and it doesn't go well. Coben wants her since he couldn’t finish what he started all those years ago.
We follow Ellery and Reed as they reconnect and as they work together to find another victim's body so the family has closure.
During their search something major happens elsewhere.
You will be glued to the pages and thinking about the book even when you aren’t reading it.
Tense, tense, tense and excellent as all of Joanna’s books.
Fans don’t want to miss this one.
This book was given to me by publisher in exchange for an honest review.
October 30, 2021
This is #5 in the Ellery Hathaway series. I have not read all but have read most so I do know that when Ellery was fourteen she was kidnapped by serial killer Francis Coben and was his seventeenth victim.
This case was investigated by the FBI and that caught the attention on many reporters. In fact, a book and a movie were very popular.
She was rescued by Special Agent Reed Markham. He followed a hunch and found her near death. He has continued to be a part of her life.
In this story Francis Coben says he wants to make amends for what he has done and is willing to reveal the location of their burial in exchange of meeting Ellery in person.
There is no doubt he is a horrible person and we discover that the seventeen years he has already spent in the Maximus Security Correction Facility and not corrected his evil ways. In fact, he has regretted that Abby/Ellery got away alive and for seventeen years has been thinking about the chance to stuff her in a closet and slicing off her hands. Yikes!!
Sure enough he gets the opportunity.
Yes! Although, somewhat thrilling and had me on the edge of my chair, disturbing terrible things going on.
Want to thank NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press ~ Minotaur Books for this eGalley. This file has been made available to me before publication in an early form for an honest professional review.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for January 11, 2022
This case was investigated by the FBI and that caught the attention on many reporters. In fact, a book and a movie were very popular.
She was rescued by Special Agent Reed Markham. He followed a hunch and found her near death. He has continued to be a part of her life.
In this story Francis Coben says he wants to make amends for what he has done and is willing to reveal the location of their burial in exchange of meeting Ellery in person.
There is no doubt he is a horrible person and we discover that the seventeen years he has already spent in the Maximus Security Correction Facility and not corrected his evil ways. In fact, he has regretted that Abby/Ellery got away alive and for seventeen years has been thinking about the chance to stuff her in a closet and slicing off her hands. Yikes!!
Sure enough he gets the opportunity.
Yes! Although, somewhat thrilling and had me on the edge of my chair, disturbing terrible things going on.
Want to thank NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press ~ Minotaur Books for this eGalley. This file has been made available to me before publication in an early form for an honest professional review.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for January 11, 2022
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