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Detective Ellie Reeves #4
Frozen Souls
She looked like an angel. She lay perfectly still, silky blonde hair falling to her pale shoulders. Icicles clung to her eyelashes as snowflakes fluttered to the frozen ground, burying her body.
As a snowstorm wreaks havoc in the mountain town of Crooked Creek, a woman is found buried in ice. Detective Ellie Reeves is first on the scene. Examining the body, she finds frozen blonde hair, pink nail polish and a silver heart necklace engraved with Mine Forever.
Ellie has first-hand experience of the monsters that lurk in the mountains––her childhood is testament to that. She vows to catch this one, but she’s up against the brutal weather, with snow covering footprints and making forensics impossible.
Frantically trawling through missing-person’s reports, Ellie identifies the victim. Nadine Houser disappeared eleven years ago. Where has she been all this time? Why was she only murdered now?
As storm clouds roll in, another girl is reported missing. Ellie retraces the steps of Ginger Weston who was renting a cabin in the mountains. She discovers a gold chain in the snow, spotted with blood. The killer is accelerating, and it’s just a matter of time before more innocent lives are robbed.
With the town blaming Ellie for the missing girl on her watch, and everyone fearing for their safety of their daughters, it’s down to Ellie to solve the toughest case of her career. But when the killer comes after her, will she live to save Crooked Creek from its ruthless monster?
A totally gripping read that will get your pulse pounding as you flip through the pages! Perfect for fans of Lisa Regan, Melinda Leigh and Kendra Elliot who love a roller-coaster, twist-packed page-turner!
As a snowstorm wreaks havoc in the mountain town of Crooked Creek, a woman is found buried in ice. Detective Ellie Reeves is first on the scene. Examining the body, she finds frozen blonde hair, pink nail polish and a silver heart necklace engraved with Mine Forever.
Ellie has first-hand experience of the monsters that lurk in the mountains––her childhood is testament to that. She vows to catch this one, but she’s up against the brutal weather, with snow covering footprints and making forensics impossible.
Frantically trawling through missing-person’s reports, Ellie identifies the victim. Nadine Houser disappeared eleven years ago. Where has she been all this time? Why was she only murdered now?
As storm clouds roll in, another girl is reported missing. Ellie retraces the steps of Ginger Weston who was renting a cabin in the mountains. She discovers a gold chain in the snow, spotted with blood. The killer is accelerating, and it’s just a matter of time before more innocent lives are robbed.
With the town blaming Ellie for the missing girl on her watch, and everyone fearing for their safety of their daughters, it’s down to Ellie to solve the toughest case of her career. But when the killer comes after her, will she live to save Crooked Creek from its ruthless monster?
A totally gripping read that will get your pulse pounding as you flip through the pages! Perfect for fans of Lisa Regan, Melinda Leigh and Kendra Elliot who love a roller-coaster, twist-packed page-turner!
414 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 28, 2021
2455 people are currently reading
776 people want to read
About the author
Rita Herron
326 books949 followersUSA Today Bestselling and award-winning author Rita Herron fell in love with books at the ripe age of eight when she read her first Trixie Belden mystery. But she didn’t think real people grew up to be writers, so she became a teacher instead. Now she writes so she doesn’t have to get a real job.
With over ninety books to her credit, she’s penned romantic suspense, romantic comedy and YA novels, but she especially likes writing dark romantic suspense and crime fiction set in small southern towns.
For more on. Rita and her titles, visit her at www.ritaherron.com. You can also find her on www.Facebook/ritaherron.com and Twitter.com/ritaherron.
With over ninety books to her credit, she’s penned romantic suspense, romantic comedy and YA novels, but she especially likes writing dark romantic suspense and crime fiction set in small southern towns.
For more on. Rita and her titles, visit her at www.ritaherron.com. You can also find her on www.Facebook/ritaherron.com and Twitter.com/ritaherron.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 138 reviews
October 27, 2021
A great addition to the series.
I have read the previous two books in this series, but it is not necessary. Although some elements from previous books, including who the murderer was, are revealed in this book. But mostly without details.
It's hard to write something new in a serial killer story. Yet Rita Herron always succeeds, her story is fresh and interesting. And it is really holding you on the edge of your seat. The frozen body of a girl who had disappeared many years earlier is found in the forest. The main character, Detective Ellie Reeves, must catch the murderer before another young girl gets hurt. Especially when the governor's daughter disappears. The stakes are high all the time.
I also like how closely this story is tied to the setting, the mountain town of Crooked Creek. Even the weather plays a significant role in this story and builds up the atmosphere. I had noticed it in earlier books in this series, and it was so in this one. If you like stories where location matters, you won't be disappointed by this one.
Ellie is a good and strong main character, but not without some visible flaws. In addition to her perspective, we also have some other POVs. We already know some of these characters from previous books, such as Lola, Cord and Derrick. But there are also some new ones - the murderer and one of his victims. Especially this second one adds a lot of chills to the story.
But it also makes the story a lot darker and more brutal. This is not a book for people who have a problem with vicious violence against women. If this topic or the torture scenes are something you avoid, this is not the story for you.
If you have no problems like that, then I strongly recommend this book, whether you have read any of the previous books in this series or not.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I have read the previous two books in this series, but it is not necessary. Although some elements from previous books, including who the murderer was, are revealed in this book. But mostly without details.
It's hard to write something new in a serial killer story. Yet Rita Herron always succeeds, her story is fresh and interesting. And it is really holding you on the edge of your seat. The frozen body of a girl who had disappeared many years earlier is found in the forest. The main character, Detective Ellie Reeves, must catch the murderer before another young girl gets hurt. Especially when the governor's daughter disappears. The stakes are high all the time.
I also like how closely this story is tied to the setting, the mountain town of Crooked Creek. Even the weather plays a significant role in this story and builds up the atmosphere. I had noticed it in earlier books in this series, and it was so in this one. If you like stories where location matters, you won't be disappointed by this one.
Ellie is a good and strong main character, but not without some visible flaws. In addition to her perspective, we also have some other POVs. We already know some of these characters from previous books, such as Lola, Cord and Derrick. But there are also some new ones - the murderer and one of his victims. Especially this second one adds a lot of chills to the story.
But it also makes the story a lot darker and more brutal. This is not a book for people who have a problem with vicious violence against women. If this topic or the torture scenes are something you avoid, this is not the story for you.
If you have no problems like that, then I strongly recommend this book, whether you have read any of the previous books in this series or not.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 2, 2021
My thanks to Rita Herron, Bookoutre and Netgalley for this ARC. I've never read this series before, and except for a few references of other books, I think it stands alone. I loved Ellie! She's smart and tough! Derrick? Please..Those 2 really need to hook up! I hate romance, but even I felt the tension!😉 The Hunter is one sick individual. I've no pity for him. He should be gunned down and still left alive. Then put in a concrete box. He should hate that! I did feel that the author played the stereotypical card of we're all just idiot's here! Thing is that sometimes people do think smart, but things go sideways. Here? They don't call for back up. Next thing you know? Everyone's hanging from a hook. Ugh! I did like this book. I would definitely read the series. But, I hate when people get stupid in the end. That's all on the author.
May 29, 2024
Frozen Souls was an excellent read with an intriguing mystery surrounding several missing women.
As a snowstorm buries Crooked Creek, Detective Ellie Reeves is alerted to the discovery of a woman's body found covered in ice. With the snow covering up the crime scene, Ellie will have to get creative to track down this killer. After searching through missing person's reports, Ellie identifies the victim as Nadine Houser, a woman who disappeared eleven years ago. As a new stormfront rolls in, another woman is reported missing putting Ellie in a race against the clock to stop this killer before another woman dies.
The mystery in Frozen Souls was intriguing and pulled me in right away. The connection to the old missing person's case made things interesting as I wondered if Nadine had been dead the whole time or if she was held captive for all that time. After Ginger goes missing, the tension really picks up as everyone wants to find her before she's killed too. Due to who Ginger's family is, there's a lot of pressure on Ellie to find Ginger quickly which does at times hinder the case. A suspect is identified pretty early on which surprised me and I wondered if they would end up actually being the killer. The author does a great job keeping you guessing and the reveals are well timed. The final confrontation with the killer is very well done with some great twists and I liked how everything played out.
Ellie continues to be an excellent main character to follow. After all of the revelations about her family in the last few books, Ellie is still working out how to deal with the secrets. She's done a good job keeping her personal issues separate from her work although that can be difficult. A number of townsfolk continue to believe Ellie isn't doing enough to keep them safe despite the lengths she goes to even at a great personal cost. Her investigative skills have come a long way since The Silent Dolls and I've enjoyed watching her become a better detective. Her relationship with Derrick has continued to evolve and they're in a good place after the events of the first few books. I enjoy the pair's dynamic so I'm looking forward to seeing them work together more in future books.
Overall Frozen Souls was a fantastic addition to the series and I'm looking forward to reading the next book, Stolen Angels, soon.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
As a snowstorm buries Crooked Creek, Detective Ellie Reeves is alerted to the discovery of a woman's body found covered in ice. With the snow covering up the crime scene, Ellie will have to get creative to track down this killer. After searching through missing person's reports, Ellie identifies the victim as Nadine Houser, a woman who disappeared eleven years ago. As a new stormfront rolls in, another woman is reported missing putting Ellie in a race against the clock to stop this killer before another woman dies.
The mystery in Frozen Souls was intriguing and pulled me in right away. The connection to the old missing person's case made things interesting as I wondered if Nadine had been dead the whole time or if she was held captive for all that time. After Ginger goes missing, the tension really picks up as everyone wants to find her before she's killed too. Due to who Ginger's family is, there's a lot of pressure on Ellie to find Ginger quickly which does at times hinder the case. A suspect is identified pretty early on which surprised me and I wondered if they would end up actually being the killer. The author does a great job keeping you guessing and the reveals are well timed. The final confrontation with the killer is very well done with some great twists and I liked how everything played out.
Ellie continues to be an excellent main character to follow. After all of the revelations about her family in the last few books, Ellie is still working out how to deal with the secrets. She's done a good job keeping her personal issues separate from her work although that can be difficult. A number of townsfolk continue to believe Ellie isn't doing enough to keep them safe despite the lengths she goes to even at a great personal cost. Her investigative skills have come a long way since The Silent Dolls and I've enjoyed watching her become a better detective. Her relationship with Derrick has continued to evolve and they're in a good place after the events of the first few books. I enjoy the pair's dynamic so I'm looking forward to seeing them work together more in future books.
Overall Frozen Souls was a fantastic addition to the series and I'm looking forward to reading the next book, Stolen Angels, soon.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
July 22, 2023
I've read almost everything that this author has written including the books before this one. I like her books and I liked the "idea" of this one and quite frankly it wasn't presented badly at all...I just became quickly fed up with Ellie, the main character. I don't mind on again, off again, multiple partner romances as a rule...but it seems that this woman is incapable of making a commitment to one man and the fools are just standing in line to let her lead them around by the nose or perhaps other "appendages". As far as the story itself goes...the killer actually was responsible for getting it the three stars...actually 3.5, but for some reason Goodreads doesn't do half stars. If there are going to be more books with Detective Ellie Reeves, and I assume there is or there will be...the killer needs to find a larger town to believably kill folks in... may I suggest Atlanta or Tampa...Philidelphia... This town is not a metropolis...it's described as a "small town". Could this small town possibly have had 4 serial killers? If so, I bet their Chamber of Commerce is Not a Happy Camper:)
April 7, 2025
3.5✨ rounded down
I’m really glad I went back and gave this series a second go!!! It’s not the best series ever but I am enjoying it
I’m really glad I went back and gave this series a second go!!! It’s not the best series ever but I am enjoying it
November 6, 2021
Detective Ellie Reeves is fighting weather that just might prove inclement. Discovering a woman's body in the ice is very disturbing to Ellie. She peruses the records and discovers that the victim had been missing for years. Where was she during those years and why was she so brutally killed recently? Then another woman goes missing. Ellie and her team are really worried for Ginger Weston, the governor's daughter. He tells Ellie that his daughter was away for a while in the mountains and that he stopped hearing from her. Soon they realize that she was kidnapped and the hunt is on.
Ellie feverishly looks for Ginger, turning over every stone. She senses something about the person responsible for the previous murder and she worries that time just might run out for Ginger. Meanwhile, Ginger is facing her abductor. Her fear is real and there are some chapters in this book that display his actions towards his victims. Plotting her escape seems impossible to Ginger, but she struggles to remain hopeful.
While searching, Ellie faces problems at work and with this difficult case, she refuses to give up. The kidnapper is a monster to Ellie, and with very good reason. Ellie cannot help but think of difficult times in her own life, but still she soldiers on, even to the point of placing her own life in danger.
Although Frozen Souls is the fourth book in the series it did quite well as standalone novel. Ellie is exceptional and I look forward to reading more of her in future installments, and I would also love to see where things go with another cop, Derrick, who worked alongside her on this case. This was a thrilling story that I devoured from beginning to end in one sitting.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Ellie feverishly looks for Ginger, turning over every stone. She senses something about the person responsible for the previous murder and she worries that time just might run out for Ginger. Meanwhile, Ginger is facing her abductor. Her fear is real and there are some chapters in this book that display his actions towards his victims. Plotting her escape seems impossible to Ginger, but she struggles to remain hopeful.
While searching, Ellie faces problems at work and with this difficult case, she refuses to give up. The kidnapper is a monster to Ellie, and with very good reason. Ellie cannot help but think of difficult times in her own life, but still she soldiers on, even to the point of placing her own life in danger.
Although Frozen Souls is the fourth book in the series it did quite well as standalone novel. Ellie is exceptional and I look forward to reading more of her in future installments, and I would also love to see where things go with another cop, Derrick, who worked alongside her on this case. This was a thrilling story that I devoured from beginning to end in one sitting.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
October 28, 2021
Someone is killing young women in the mountain town of Crooked Creek. One woman found had been missing 11 years and was frozen solid. Detective Reeves is up against the weather, snow covering footprints, and no other clues. Where has she been all these years?
With another ferocious winter storm approaching, another woman is reported missing. This time it's the daughter of the Governor. And this does not end the number of bodies found murdered.
BookBlurb: With the town blaming Ellie for the missing girls on her watch, and everyone fearing for the safety of their daughters, it’s down to Ellie to solve the toughest case of her career. But when the killer comes after her, will she live to save Crooked Creek from its ruthless monster?
Although 4th in the series, this can easily be read as a stand alone. Well written, this novel is full of twists and turns leading to a surprising conclusion. Character development shows the protagonist with emotional depth.
Many thanks to the author / Bookouture / Netgalley for the digital copy of this crime fiction. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
With another ferocious winter storm approaching, another woman is reported missing. This time it's the daughter of the Governor. And this does not end the number of bodies found murdered.
BookBlurb: With the town blaming Ellie for the missing girls on her watch, and everyone fearing for the safety of their daughters, it’s down to Ellie to solve the toughest case of her career. But when the killer comes after her, will she live to save Crooked Creek from its ruthless monster?
Although 4th in the series, this can easily be read as a stand alone. Well written, this novel is full of twists and turns leading to a surprising conclusion. Character development shows the protagonist with emotional depth.
Many thanks to the author / Bookouture / Netgalley for the digital copy of this crime fiction. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
January 29, 2022
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'Frozen Souls' by Rita Herron.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Rita Herron, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 28th October 2021.
This is the third book I have read by this author. It is also the fourth book in the 'Detective Ellie Reeves' series but can be read as a standalone. I have previously read 'Wildflower Graves' which is the second book in this series and 'The Burning Girls' which is the third book in this series and both I would highly recommend reading.
I was originally drawn to this book by its gorgeous eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that this book is 'Perfect for fans of fans of Melinda Leigh, Lisa Regan and Kendra Elliot.' I am a huge fan of Melinda, Lisa AND Kendra so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I am also a huge fan of Rita and if this is as good as 'Wildflower Graves' and 'The Burning Girls' it is sure to be an amazing read. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of a prologue and 136 chapters. The chapters are short to medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in North America, USA 🇺🇸.
This book is written in third person perspective and the main protagonists are Detective Ellie Reeves, Special Agent Derrick Fox, the victims and the unsub. I enjoy books written in third person with several protagonists as it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters.
WOW!!! JUST WOW!!! CONGRATULATIONS RITA ON ANOTHER HUMONGOUS PAGE TURNING SUCCESS!!!!
OMG!!!!! What did I just read!!?!?!? Right, OK, hold on a minute let's start at the beginning!! First impressions after what attracted me to the book. 136 chapters!!! 414 pages!!! OK yep this is going to take me ages!! Ummmmm.... Nope!!! I need more!!! Absolutely flew by!!! The chapters range from one page to about four pages so please don't let the amount of chapters put you off, you will miss out on one of the best books I've read in a while!! I could not out this book down. I would read one chapter, tell myself one more, just to find the next one ended in a cliff hanger and there was no chance I was leaving it there!! Several chapters and hours later its 1am and I have finished the book without even noticing the time!!
The book is extremely smooth and well written so you just glide through the pages turning one after another and getting completely lost in them. The descriptions are vivid so I really did become lost in the woods with our characters. The storyline itself was scarily realistic which made it even easier to imagine everything going on. The cover and the synopsis all work perfectly well with the plot. Although this book is part of a series it can be read as a standalone. Anything that you need to know about previous cases, etc is explained in just the right amount of information, not too much to be too repetitive if you've read the previous books and just the right amount to understand what's happened if you haven't.
The storyline itself was extremely compelling and gripping. It was also unique and I haven't read one anything like this one. Get ready for one heck of a roller-coaster ride. Absolutely rammed full of suspense, secrets, shocks, plots, twists, turns, murder, tension and everything else that you love in a psychological thriller. This is not just one storyline, you are getting so many plots in this book that it will keep you guessing all the way. I have read sooo many crime novels now it is very hard for me to be surprised and shocked but that I was and very wrong on many occasions. Just as I thought I was a smart Alec and worked it all out thwack... Here comes another explosion. Honestly, just Wow!! I would have never guessed who was doing what and then it wasn't just one shocker there were several twists thrown in. You will take this book wherever you go because once your hooked that's it!! I don't think I've actually read a larger book so quickly in months!!
I absolutely loved meeting all the fantastic string characters again!!! I love the range of different characters, their personalities and all the different relationships they had... The hate, the secrets, friendships and most definitely a spark of hidden love. Ellie Reeves you are a hero!!! Absolute wonderwoman!! I LOVE books that have such strong female leads and you cannot get much stronger than Ellie, that girl is a fighter!!! She goes through so many emotions and traumas yet isn't wrapped up in an institution but kicking butt!!! In this book Ellie faces even more challenges in work and her own life. Derrick and Cord played their parts perfectly and I cannot wait to look back at the first book which I have yet to read and more ahead to see the history and future of all these fantastic characters. Although it has been quite a while since I've read 'The Burning Girls' and I've read loads of books since, as soon as I started reading this all the characters and cases came straight back to me which show how much of an impression Rita leaves with her books. They have started to feel like old friends that I love meeting again each and every time.
I have raved about this book long enough but I will tell you a few things to end. You WILL miss out of what is definitely one of the best psychological thrillers if you do not pick up this book. This book NEEDS to be turned into a movie. I CANNOT wait to read more books by this extremely talented woman.
Overall a mind blowing, page turning, explosive psychological thriller that will keep you up at night.
Genres covered in this novel include Psychological Thriller, Suspense, Mystery, Thriller, Hardboiled, Noir Fiction, Police Procedural and Crime Fiction amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of Melinda Leigh, Angela Marsons, Carol Wyer, Tess Gerritsen, everyone and YOU!!! WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?!?!
414 pages.
This book is just 99p to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5 /5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#FrozenSouls #Bookouture #RitaHerron #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@RitaHerron @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
Review for 'Frozen Souls' by Rita Herron.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Rita Herron, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 28th October 2021.
This is the third book I have read by this author. It is also the fourth book in the 'Detective Ellie Reeves' series but can be read as a standalone. I have previously read 'Wildflower Graves' which is the second book in this series and 'The Burning Girls' which is the third book in this series and both I would highly recommend reading.
I was originally drawn to this book by its gorgeous eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that this book is 'Perfect for fans of fans of Melinda Leigh, Lisa Regan and Kendra Elliot.' I am a huge fan of Melinda, Lisa AND Kendra so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I am also a huge fan of Rita and if this is as good as 'Wildflower Graves' and 'The Burning Girls' it is sure to be an amazing read. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of a prologue and 136 chapters. The chapters are short to medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in North America, USA 🇺🇸.
This book is written in third person perspective and the main protagonists are Detective Ellie Reeves, Special Agent Derrick Fox, the victims and the unsub. I enjoy books written in third person with several protagonists as it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters.
WOW!!! JUST WOW!!! CONGRATULATIONS RITA ON ANOTHER HUMONGOUS PAGE TURNING SUCCESS!!!!
OMG!!!!! What did I just read!!?!?!? Right, OK, hold on a minute let's start at the beginning!! First impressions after what attracted me to the book. 136 chapters!!! 414 pages!!! OK yep this is going to take me ages!! Ummmmm.... Nope!!! I need more!!! Absolutely flew by!!! The chapters range from one page to about four pages so please don't let the amount of chapters put you off, you will miss out on one of the best books I've read in a while!! I could not out this book down. I would read one chapter, tell myself one more, just to find the next one ended in a cliff hanger and there was no chance I was leaving it there!! Several chapters and hours later its 1am and I have finished the book without even noticing the time!!
The book is extremely smooth and well written so you just glide through the pages turning one after another and getting completely lost in them. The descriptions are vivid so I really did become lost in the woods with our characters. The storyline itself was scarily realistic which made it even easier to imagine everything going on. The cover and the synopsis all work perfectly well with the plot. Although this book is part of a series it can be read as a standalone. Anything that you need to know about previous cases, etc is explained in just the right amount of information, not too much to be too repetitive if you've read the previous books and just the right amount to understand what's happened if you haven't.
The storyline itself was extremely compelling and gripping. It was also unique and I haven't read one anything like this one. Get ready for one heck of a roller-coaster ride. Absolutely rammed full of suspense, secrets, shocks, plots, twists, turns, murder, tension and everything else that you love in a psychological thriller. This is not just one storyline, you are getting so many plots in this book that it will keep you guessing all the way. I have read sooo many crime novels now it is very hard for me to be surprised and shocked but that I was and very wrong on many occasions. Just as I thought I was a smart Alec and worked it all out thwack... Here comes another explosion. Honestly, just Wow!! I would have never guessed who was doing what and then it wasn't just one shocker there were several twists thrown in. You will take this book wherever you go because once your hooked that's it!! I don't think I've actually read a larger book so quickly in months!!
I absolutely loved meeting all the fantastic string characters again!!! I love the range of different characters, their personalities and all the different relationships they had... The hate, the secrets, friendships and most definitely a spark of hidden love. Ellie Reeves you are a hero!!! Absolute wonderwoman!! I LOVE books that have such strong female leads and you cannot get much stronger than Ellie, that girl is a fighter!!! She goes through so many emotions and traumas yet isn't wrapped up in an institution but kicking butt!!! In this book Ellie faces even more challenges in work and her own life. Derrick and Cord played their parts perfectly and I cannot wait to look back at the first book which I have yet to read and more ahead to see the history and future of all these fantastic characters. Although it has been quite a while since I've read 'The Burning Girls' and I've read loads of books since, as soon as I started reading this all the characters and cases came straight back to me which show how much of an impression Rita leaves with her books. They have started to feel like old friends that I love meeting again each and every time.
I have raved about this book long enough but I will tell you a few things to end. You WILL miss out of what is definitely one of the best psychological thrillers if you do not pick up this book. This book NEEDS to be turned into a movie. I CANNOT wait to read more books by this extremely talented woman.
Overall a mind blowing, page turning, explosive psychological thriller that will keep you up at night.
Genres covered in this novel include Psychological Thriller, Suspense, Mystery, Thriller, Hardboiled, Noir Fiction, Police Procedural and Crime Fiction amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of Melinda Leigh, Angela Marsons, Carol Wyer, Tess Gerritsen, everyone and YOU!!! WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?!?!
414 pages.
This book is just 99p to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5 /5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#FrozenSouls #Bookouture #RitaHerron #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@RitaHerron @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
October 7, 2021
Release date 28th October 2021 thank you to netgalley, Rita Herron and bookature for the advance digit copy in exchange for my fair and honest opinions.
I just wasn't ready for this book and I'm still not ready it was so good!!!
Ellie Reeves finds herself in the centre of another serial killer in her town!!! When a missing woman from 11 years ago is found frozen with a necklace that says mine forever, she has to find our who she is and what links she has to a senator's daughter Ginger goes missing. FBI agent Derek is worried that the killer may have taken her. The question is are they too late?
First of all ELLIE AND DEREK HURRY UP AND GET TOGETHER! I feel like I'm on edge with every book I want them to release they are perfect for one another. I found this installment to be as good as the rest!! We know again follow both points of view and I loved reading the protective side of Derek! Espically because the victims share similar characteristics.
As usual we are taken on a fantastic ride to discover who the killer is and I must say I hadn't a clue. Even with all the clues throughout the book I could guess at all. This killer is more brutal also this is depicted when s body is cut up. I could really feel the emotions of Ellie. We get to read the killers pov also and as per I loved those chapters I find incorporating killers voices has a way if showing clarity at the very least.
Rita Herron had made sure she continued with loose ends and Ellie and her relationship with her parents after funding out she was adopted. Also her issues with elected sheriff Brice he seems more unstable in this book but we do get to the bottom of it a the story progresses.
All in all this is a great book Ellie and Derek are a strong team what I will say is u need to read the earlier books to fully understand whose who to understand some of the subtle hints that are thrown in throughout the entire book .
Would I recommend this book? Yes it was so enjoyable and keep me guessing until the very least word the motive behind the kills and wondering how many bodies are hidden! Safe to say this was a ploy to keep me thinking ha! Easy 5 stars
I just wasn't ready for this book and I'm still not ready it was so good!!!
Ellie Reeves finds herself in the centre of another serial killer in her town!!! When a missing woman from 11 years ago is found frozen with a necklace that says mine forever, she has to find our who she is and what links she has to a senator's daughter Ginger goes missing. FBI agent Derek is worried that the killer may have taken her. The question is are they too late?
First of all ELLIE AND DEREK HURRY UP AND GET TOGETHER! I feel like I'm on edge with every book I want them to release they are perfect for one another. I found this installment to be as good as the rest!! We know again follow both points of view and I loved reading the protective side of Derek! Espically because the victims share similar characteristics.
As usual we are taken on a fantastic ride to discover who the killer is and I must say I hadn't a clue. Even with all the clues throughout the book I could guess at all. This killer is more brutal also this is depicted when s body is cut up. I could really feel the emotions of Ellie. We get to read the killers pov also and as per I loved those chapters I find incorporating killers voices has a way if showing clarity at the very least.
Rita Herron had made sure she continued with loose ends and Ellie and her relationship with her parents after funding out she was adopted. Also her issues with elected sheriff Brice he seems more unstable in this book but we do get to the bottom of it a the story progresses.
All in all this is a great book Ellie and Derek are a strong team what I will say is u need to read the earlier books to fully understand whose who to understand some of the subtle hints that are thrown in throughout the entire book .
Would I recommend this book? Yes it was so enjoyable and keep me guessing until the very least word the motive behind the kills and wondering how many bodies are hidden! Safe to say this was a ploy to keep me thinking ha! Easy 5 stars
January 9, 2025
3.5 stars. This small town can't catch a break. Murders everywhere, graphic and creepy. Story follows a similar pattern to the other 3 books. Fast paced, lots of action. Once again, I found myself skimming parts just to get back to the action. Killer is identified early on, then its just a cat and mouse game. Story went on a little long, held my attention until about the 70% mark. Then I just wanted Ellie to swoop in and save the day. Have to wonder after 4 books if the author is EVER going to let Ellie and Derrick get together as a couple. 🤔
October 25, 2021
Another great read in this excellent series.
Ellie is at the scene where a young woman’s body has been found in the ice, and with the lack of blood, they realise she was killed elsewhere.
Ellie finds out that this woman went missing eleven years ago - so where has she been kept all these years?
The Governor’s daughter is staying out in the woods to get away from things, and with no-one able to reach her, Ellie goes out to investigate.
The woman is no longer at her cabin and it looks like there has been a struggle so Derrick is asked by the Governor to help out.
Ellie and Derrick clearly have feelings for each other, but the distance between them means they both don’t think it will work, so they’re still keeping each other at arms length.
Bryce is being his usual arrogant self, but he seems to have something else on his mind too.
There’s a nail biting final few chapters as the killer steps up the hunt and kidnaps multiple victims, including Ellie.
This is a gripping crime thriller that I really enjoyed.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
Ellie is at the scene where a young woman’s body has been found in the ice, and with the lack of blood, they realise she was killed elsewhere.
Ellie finds out that this woman went missing eleven years ago - so where has she been kept all these years?
The Governor’s daughter is staying out in the woods to get away from things, and with no-one able to reach her, Ellie goes out to investigate.
The woman is no longer at her cabin and it looks like there has been a struggle so Derrick is asked by the Governor to help out.
Ellie and Derrick clearly have feelings for each other, but the distance between them means they both don’t think it will work, so they’re still keeping each other at arms length.
Bryce is being his usual arrogant self, but he seems to have something else on his mind too.
There’s a nail biting final few chapters as the killer steps up the hunt and kidnaps multiple victims, including Ellie.
This is a gripping crime thriller that I really enjoyed.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
November 13, 2021
This is one very dark and twisted tale indeed.
Ellie is trying to solve the murder of a girl who disappeared years ago. She is stunned when she realises just how long this girl has been dead. Then all her time is taken up with trying to solve the disappearance of another girl.......
Crooked Creek sounds like a nice spot in many respects, but wow, there are some seriously scary characters living there as well!
Graphic scenes are described, if you are squeamish, perhaps this is not the book for you.
A very good read.
4.5 stars from me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture.
Ellie is trying to solve the murder of a girl who disappeared years ago. She is stunned when she realises just how long this girl has been dead. Then all her time is taken up with trying to solve the disappearance of another girl.......
Crooked Creek sounds like a nice spot in many respects, but wow, there are some seriously scary characters living there as well!
Graphic scenes are described, if you are squeamish, perhaps this is not the book for you.
A very good read.
4.5 stars from me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture.
December 25, 2021
Un altro bel libro in questa serie, anche se avrei preferito che per una volta la protagonista non arrivasse sul punto di essere uccisa dal cattivo. E mi domando come facciano a esserci così tanti serial killer in piccole comunità, non faccio che leggere questo nelle serie mysteries ultimamente.
November 1, 2021
This review was originally posted on Star Crossed Reviews I received this book for free from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. This is the 4th book in the Ellie Reeves series, but all can be read as stand alones. I really enjoyed the other books in this series so I was looking forward to seeing what happened to Ellie next.
Ellie Reeves has been through hell in the previous books, but she doesn’t let that stop her. She is determined and stubborn. She will not give in easily. She makes a really good lead detective because she is very empathetic to the victims and their families. You can feel her sorrow coming of the page. Ellie torments herself with the fact that she can’t save everyone.
We were again joined by Cord McClain and Special Agent Derrick Fox. I really like these two side characters. They have always been a bit alpha male fighting for Ellie’s affections, but they are both very good at their jobs and know when to put aside their feelings for Ellie and deal with the case at hand.
This case is really disturbing. I’m very glad I don’t live in the middle of a mountain range because I’m not sure if I could sleep at night if I did! Rita has done an excellent job of creating fear in this book. I was on the edge of my seat for so much of the book.
Rita has created a world that is so vivid and engrossing I feel like I am there along side Ellie and the team. I really connected with the victims. I was so upset for them, their families and for Ellie.
Thank you to Bookouture for letting me take part in this tour and for my copy of this book via Netgalley.
Ellie Reeves has been through hell in the previous books, but she doesn’t let that stop her. She is determined and stubborn. She will not give in easily. She makes a really good lead detective because she is very empathetic to the victims and their families. You can feel her sorrow coming of the page. Ellie torments herself with the fact that she can’t save everyone.
We were again joined by Cord McClain and Special Agent Derrick Fox. I really like these two side characters. They have always been a bit alpha male fighting for Ellie’s affections, but they are both very good at their jobs and know when to put aside their feelings for Ellie and deal with the case at hand.
This case is really disturbing. I’m very glad I don’t live in the middle of a mountain range because I’m not sure if I could sleep at night if I did! Rita has done an excellent job of creating fear in this book. I was on the edge of my seat for so much of the book.
Rita has created a world that is so vivid and engrossing I feel like I am there along side Ellie and the team. I really connected with the victims. I was so upset for them, their families and for Ellie.
Thank you to Bookouture for letting me take part in this tour and for my copy of this book via Netgalley.
September 25, 2021
Detective Ellie Reeves latest case uncovers another serial killer in their midst and he has racked up the bodies.
Ellie is still dealing with finding out how she came to be. Trying to deal with her real mother who is locked up in a psychiatric hospital lost in her own mind from the trauma she endured from the mad Doctor who raped and impregnated so many women. She is called out to the mountains where a frozen body of a woman has just been discovered. In her investigation she find out this woman went missing eleven years ago. Why is she just showing up now? And when another woman goes missing she realizes the killer is still active and she needs to stop him now.
From the beginning we are given the killers point of view and boy is he one messed up psycho. Lots of thrills and chills through out this one.
I could be wrong but it looks like Ellie finally makes a decision on the romance front. I hope it sticks as she deserves some happiness in at least on part of her life. This was a great thriller and look forward to more in the series.
Ellie is still dealing with finding out how she came to be. Trying to deal with her real mother who is locked up in a psychiatric hospital lost in her own mind from the trauma she endured from the mad Doctor who raped and impregnated so many women. She is called out to the mountains where a frozen body of a woman has just been discovered. In her investigation she find out this woman went missing eleven years ago. Why is she just showing up now? And when another woman goes missing she realizes the killer is still active and she needs to stop him now.
From the beginning we are given the killers point of view and boy is he one messed up psycho. Lots of thrills and chills through out this one.
I could be wrong but it looks like Ellie finally makes a decision on the romance front. I hope it sticks as she deserves some happiness in at least on part of her life. This was a great thriller and look forward to more in the series.
November 22, 2021
Thank you Netgalley and Bookouture for the chance to read Frozen Souls by Rita Herron. This is book 4 of the Detective Ellie Reeves series and I continue to enjoy this series. Ellie discovers a woman buried in the ice during a snowstorm. She vows to find who murdered her, even if the weather is against her. Then another girl is missing and Ellie gets help from two of the men in her life...FBI Agent Derrick Fox and Ranger Cord McClain. Will Ellie be able to stop another killer or will the killer make Ellie his next target?
I love the characters Rita created, and Ellie is a strong kick-ass female, and will look forward to the next book in the series! While the book can be read as a stand-alone, I recommend reading the series in order.
If you like books by Lisa Regan, Melinda Leigh and Kendra Elliot, you will enjoy this series!
I love the characters Rita created, and Ellie is a strong kick-ass female, and will look forward to the next book in the series! While the book can be read as a stand-alone, I recommend reading the series in order.
If you like books by Lisa Regan, Melinda Leigh and Kendra Elliot, you will enjoy this series!
October 22, 2021
Detective Ellie Reeves is back still raw from her last case and the revelations about her birth mother, reporter Angelica and her friend and murder victim Vanessa. But now Ellie is facing another distressing case that sees her reunited with FBI Agent Derrick Fox and having to use every ounce of expertise and experience to catch a brutal, unrelenting and quite frankly crazy serial killer.
And honestly, I couldn't turn the pages fast enough or put this story down and boy did I enjoy every twist, blow, shock and surprise that Ms Herron perfectly delivered and for me this series has just got better and FROZEN SOULS is the best one yet.
Would definitely recommend.
**I was kindly provided with an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
And honestly, I couldn't turn the pages fast enough or put this story down and boy did I enjoy every twist, blow, shock and surprise that Ms Herron perfectly delivered and for me this series has just got better and FROZEN SOULS is the best one yet.
Would definitely recommend.
**I was kindly provided with an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
December 28, 2023
Ellie Reeves, a kickass detective, and a compelling and gripping plot. Even though its a part of a series, you can read it as a standalone. It gets you hooked on right till the end!
Thank You NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC!!
Thank You NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC!!
January 17, 2025
Pretty darn good serial killer investigation. I do have one question though. If the unsub was in the trunk hiding, then how did his victim not see him when she collected her suitcase? Enquiring mind wants to know...
October 14, 2021
yeah no thanks
December 22, 2025
Rita Herron has written another chilling story with a truly unsettling murderer’s P.O.V. The plot kept me hooked from start to finish!
April 27, 2025
This was another good addition to the series. Whilst the actual case didn't have as many twists/turns as some of the previous books, I think it still worked.
It wasn't the same tried and true structure as the books before it, no personal connection to the characters in the series, no person working on the investigation who ended up being the killer, and I was worried we were going to get more of that. Whilst that can work, it can't be the same structure for every book.
What I did enjoy a bit more in this book was the progression of the storyline/character development of the characters in the series. I am frustrated by Ellie's continued infatuation with Derrick, I really want her to acknowledge her feelings for Cord and explore that, but I guess I will just continue to hold out for that 😂
It wasn't the same tried and true structure as the books before it, no personal connection to the characters in the series, no person working on the investigation who ended up being the killer, and I was worried we were going to get more of that. Whilst that can work, it can't be the same structure for every book.
What I did enjoy a bit more in this book was the progression of the storyline/character development of the characters in the series. I am frustrated by Ellie's continued infatuation with Derrick, I really want her to acknowledge her feelings for Cord and explore that, but I guess I will just continue to hold out for that 😂
June 13, 2022
Scary and suspenseful
I like this series. Frozen Souls kept me up until I finished the book. How much more can Ellie endure?
I like this series. Frozen Souls kept me up until I finished the book. How much more can Ellie endure?
October 28, 2021
This third book in the Ellie Reeves series was so high octane it was crazy. Another serial keeps killer is on the loose. Poor Ellie just can’t get a break. The killer is wack a doodle insane. When a high profile victim goes missing it’s all hands on deck. This is the best book in the series so far. This story is so intense it’s hard to put down. Just another reason why I love this author so much.
July 23, 2023
A fast paced crime thriller!
As I read for enjoyment, I love a series like this one. The story moves along a quite the clip, the characters are a familiar bunch and little set up is required. It’s all set near the Appalachian Trail North of Atlanta and into Tennessee. Spooky woods, creepy mountain people and all kinds of bad weather help make each book a bit different. A strong female detective leads the way as she struggles to solve crimes in her “neck of the woods.”
As I read for enjoyment, I love a series like this one. The story moves along a quite the clip, the characters are a familiar bunch and little set up is required. It’s all set near the Appalachian Trail North of Atlanta and into Tennessee. Spooky woods, creepy mountain people and all kinds of bad weather help make each book a bit different. A strong female detective leads the way as she struggles to solve crimes in her “neck of the woods.”
January 17, 2022
A hunter searches for his perfect mate - stealing young women and holding them captive. As his collection grows, he must discard an older body.
The body of a frozen youn woman is found while searching for a child and dog lost on the AT trail.
Ginger escapes to a remote cabin- desperate to work in her handcrafted jewelry while avoiding her domineering ex boyfriend and father. The hunter spots her - and feels that instant connection.
The tension between Ellie and Bryce continue. Cord and Ellie work together- and Derrick is brought back.
Great twists and an attention grabbing read!
The body of a frozen youn woman is found while searching for a child and dog lost on the AT trail.
Ginger escapes to a remote cabin- desperate to work in her handcrafted jewelry while avoiding her domineering ex boyfriend and father. The hunter spots her - and feels that instant connection.
The tension between Ellie and Bryce continue. Cord and Ellie work together- and Derrick is brought back.
Great twists and an attention grabbing read!
September 22, 2025
A powerful snowstorm is about to hit Crooked Creek when a woman’s body is discovered buried in the ice. Ellie is the first on the scene, where she finds frozen blonde hair, pink nail polish, and an engraved necklace reading “Mine Forever.” After running a check through missing persons, Ellie identifies the victim as Nadine Houser. Soon after, another young woman is kidnapped, forcing Ellie into a race against time to save the victims. As more girls go missing—including the governor’s daughter, Ginger—Ellie must step inside the mind of a sadistic killer before it’s too late.
The book pulled me in right from the beginning. While it wasn’t quite as gripping as the first book in the series, the early chapters had enough suspense to keep me wanting to know what would happen next. I really enjoy the character of Ellie Reeves—she’s courageous, dedicated to her work, and determined to keep Crooked Creek safe. On the other hand, Bryce Waters has never been a character I’ve warmed up to. I’m not sure if his role will evolve in later books, but for now, I just can’t get behind him.
Derrick, however, is a strong addition. He and Ellie clearly have chemistry, though Ellie seems too guarded to give him a chance. Personally, I think they’d make a great couple.
One part of the book that didn’t sit well with me was the sequence where Lola is kidnapped by the Hunter. Ellie decides to split up, and although Derrick insists on staying with her for protection, she sends him to follow up on the food truck lead instead. Instead, she brings Cord along. While Cord knows the Appalachian Trail well, so do other rangers like Milo. Because Cord feels guilty for not giving Lola a chance earlier, he’s emotionally compromised and too close to the case. Predictably, when they find Lola’s location, Cord ignores Ellie’s orders to wait, rushes inside, and all three—Lola, Cord, and Ellie—end up captured. To me, Ellie’s decision didn’t make much sense. Taking Cord increased the risk, and they should have had more backup before approaching the hut. Still, I understand that Rita wrote it this way to heighten tension and keep readers on edge, wondering whether Derrick could save them in time.
Fortunately, Derrick and Milo arrive just in time, rescuing everyone and arresting the Hunter. As the book closes, the mayor apologizes to Ellie and offers her a badge of honor for her bravery, but Ellie declines. I understand her reasoning—that she was simply doing her job—but personally, I think the recognition would have been a meaningful reminder of her accomplishments.
The ending leaves us with Derrick renting a cabin in Crooked Creek and finally asking Ellie out, which I hope means their relationship might grow into something more. They make a fantastic detective team, and I would love to see them become a couple. Between the serial killers and predators haunting Crooked Creek, though, I know one thing for sure: I’d never want to visit the Appalachian Trail or Crooked Creek in real life—it seems like bad luck waiting to happen!
Overall, I would rate this novel four out of five stars. While not as strong as the first book in the series, it was engaging, suspenseful, and left me eager to see how Ellie and Derrick’s story continues.
The book pulled me in right from the beginning. While it wasn’t quite as gripping as the first book in the series, the early chapters had enough suspense to keep me wanting to know what would happen next. I really enjoy the character of Ellie Reeves—she’s courageous, dedicated to her work, and determined to keep Crooked Creek safe. On the other hand, Bryce Waters has never been a character I’ve warmed up to. I’m not sure if his role will evolve in later books, but for now, I just can’t get behind him.
Derrick, however, is a strong addition. He and Ellie clearly have chemistry, though Ellie seems too guarded to give him a chance. Personally, I think they’d make a great couple.
One part of the book that didn’t sit well with me was the sequence where Lola is kidnapped by the Hunter. Ellie decides to split up, and although Derrick insists on staying with her for protection, she sends him to follow up on the food truck lead instead. Instead, she brings Cord along. While Cord knows the Appalachian Trail well, so do other rangers like Milo. Because Cord feels guilty for not giving Lola a chance earlier, he’s emotionally compromised and too close to the case. Predictably, when they find Lola’s location, Cord ignores Ellie’s orders to wait, rushes inside, and all three—Lola, Cord, and Ellie—end up captured. To me, Ellie’s decision didn’t make much sense. Taking Cord increased the risk, and they should have had more backup before approaching the hut. Still, I understand that Rita wrote it this way to heighten tension and keep readers on edge, wondering whether Derrick could save them in time.
Fortunately, Derrick and Milo arrive just in time, rescuing everyone and arresting the Hunter. As the book closes, the mayor apologizes to Ellie and offers her a badge of honor for her bravery, but Ellie declines. I understand her reasoning—that she was simply doing her job—but personally, I think the recognition would have been a meaningful reminder of her accomplishments.
The ending leaves us with Derrick renting a cabin in Crooked Creek and finally asking Ellie out, which I hope means their relationship might grow into something more. They make a fantastic detective team, and I would love to see them become a couple. Between the serial killers and predators haunting Crooked Creek, though, I know one thing for sure: I’d never want to visit the Appalachian Trail or Crooked Creek in real life—it seems like bad luck waiting to happen!
Overall, I would rate this novel four out of five stars. While not as strong as the first book in the series, it was engaging, suspenseful, and left me eager to see how Ellie and Derrick’s story continues.
February 24, 2024
This isnt a whodunit- read on KU
This one is different in that you know roughly who the bad guy is from the beginning. Not by name, but by description. It is obvious it isn't going to be someone we meet because this guy lives completely off the grid and the descriptions of him are such that you know he can't be any of the people that have been introduced. That makes it more eof just a man hunt and less interesting.
Ellie does at least go with backup, but as before, her backup gets jumped, too. Clearly, these people aren't watching each other's backs when hte bad guy ALWAYS gets the drop on them. Unless it's Derreck, but he's never there when she encounters the bad guy.
The love triangle is getting old. Either progress with it or drop it all together. The epilogue gives hope for the former.
If you haven't read the previous books, you would think Ellie was furious with her parents for never telling her she was adopted. It wasn't that. They didn't tell her that her mom had a son she let be adopted and they suspected that son to be kidnapping kids. They let him get away instead of letting their secret out. They also lied to her about having a childhood friend. Her original name was Mae and when her adopted half brother kidnapped her as a child, she coped with it by disassociating from her name. They gave her a new name and told her the old name was her imaginary friend.
In all of these books, the Sheriff's dept would have had jurisdiction because the murders always happen outside the city limits.
One of my biggest gripes with this book is it doesn't snow anywhere in Georgia in mid October. There might be flurries, but not real snow. And snowfall like what is described here only happens once every few years and only in a few spots. When that happens, no one goes anywhere because no town in Georgia clears all the roads that fast. For the most part, people who have only driven in Georgia don't know how to drive in the snow. I have lived in the state all of my 50 years and in the area described here for much of it.
Speaking of geography, the author has the characters driving across the northern part of the state in a jiffy as if they are driving across town. Helen to Ellijay is not a short drive. Obviously, this is a fictional town, but is must be magical as it isn't that far from anything in the northern part of the state.
Also on the topic of weather, there wouldn't be a hard freeze that early. If a cop found a body that completely frozen, they would automatically know the body hadn't been outside of a freezer for long. Daytime temps would be above freezing.
I would drop the series but it is still easier than finding something new to try. The books aren't a waste of time, but I wish the author would incorporate somenuser feedback and make the books a little different from each other.
This one is different in that you know roughly who the bad guy is from the beginning. Not by name, but by description. It is obvious it isn't going to be someone we meet because this guy lives completely off the grid and the descriptions of him are such that you know he can't be any of the people that have been introduced. That makes it more eof just a man hunt and less interesting.
Ellie does at least go with backup, but as before, her backup gets jumped, too. Clearly, these people aren't watching each other's backs when hte bad guy ALWAYS gets the drop on them. Unless it's Derreck, but he's never there when she encounters the bad guy.
The love triangle is getting old. Either progress with it or drop it all together. The epilogue gives hope for the former.
If you haven't read the previous books, you would think Ellie was furious with her parents for never telling her she was adopted. It wasn't that. They didn't tell her that her mom had a son she let be adopted and they suspected that son to be kidnapping kids. They let him get away instead of letting their secret out. They also lied to her about having a childhood friend. Her original name was Mae and when her adopted half brother kidnapped her as a child, she coped with it by disassociating from her name. They gave her a new name and told her the old name was her imaginary friend.
In all of these books, the Sheriff's dept would have had jurisdiction because the murders always happen outside the city limits.
One of my biggest gripes with this book is it doesn't snow anywhere in Georgia in mid October. There might be flurries, but not real snow. And snowfall like what is described here only happens once every few years and only in a few spots. When that happens, no one goes anywhere because no town in Georgia clears all the roads that fast. For the most part, people who have only driven in Georgia don't know how to drive in the snow. I have lived in the state all of my 50 years and in the area described here for much of it.
Speaking of geography, the author has the characters driving across the northern part of the state in a jiffy as if they are driving across town. Helen to Ellijay is not a short drive. Obviously, this is a fictional town, but is must be magical as it isn't that far from anything in the northern part of the state.
Also on the topic of weather, there wouldn't be a hard freeze that early. If a cop found a body that completely frozen, they would automatically know the body hadn't been outside of a freezer for long. Daytime temps would be above freezing.
I would drop the series but it is still easier than finding something new to try. The books aren't a waste of time, but I wish the author would incorporate somenuser feedback and make the books a little different from each other.
October 10, 2021
Read my review of Frozen Souls - A Crime-thriller novel by Rita Herron
Let me begin this post by thanking NetGalley and Bookouture for approving and sending me the ARC(Advanced Review Copy).
Frozen Souls is Book 4 in the Detective Ellie Reeves series. I haven't read the previous books, but I don't think it's absolutely necessary to, as the author has given us sufficient background information to follow the plot in this book.
Plot - 3/5
The plot started off pretty strong. It was gritty, fast-paced, and I was on the edge of my seat to find out how it all unravels. But, I found the story to lag towards the 60% mark. I got the distinct feeling that there is too much filler content to make up for the lack of intrigue. By the 65-70% mark, I had guessed the plot, and I was no longer invested in the story. Towards the end, I had to resist the intense urge to skim.
Pacing - 4/5
The pacing was truly excellent. Despite the book lacking an intriguing plot, at no point was I bored. The author kept up the interest levels by ensuring tiny, bite-sized chapters which made reading this novel a breeze!
Characters - 3/5
I don't think I can talk fairly about the characters in this case, as this book is the 4th book in the series. I honestly do not have the background of reading the past three books. Hence, I refrain from commenting about the characterization in this book.
But, purely from this book's perspective, I found Ellie to have a dogged determination to find the murderers, which was good.There were a few statements like the one below:
which implied that Ellie could be suffering from a little bit of "God-complex". Nobody can save everybody it's simply not practical or realistic! I am not sure if that's a conscious character trait that the author crafted or an accidental quirk that got inserted.
Setup - 4/5
The mountain set-up was appropriately eerie and I think this could be an apt Halloween read for whoever reads seasonal books and celebrates the festival.
Writing style - 4/5
I found the writing to be rather accessible. The dialogues weren't too shabby either. There were one too many internal monologues though, but I can understand why that could have been necessary to the story.
Overall Rating - 3.6
Borrow grade- Book worth borrowing from the library or trading with your friends/family.
#bookreviews #bookishview #reading #arcs #NetGalley #MysteryThriller #books #booksblr #FrozenSoulsDetectiveEllieReevesBook4
Let me begin this post by thanking NetGalley and Bookouture for approving and sending me the ARC(Advanced Review Copy).
Frozen Souls is Book 4 in the Detective Ellie Reeves series. I haven't read the previous books, but I don't think it's absolutely necessary to, as the author has given us sufficient background information to follow the plot in this book.
Plot - 3/5
The plot started off pretty strong. It was gritty, fast-paced, and I was on the edge of my seat to find out how it all unravels. But, I found the story to lag towards the 60% mark. I got the distinct feeling that there is too much filler content to make up for the lack of intrigue. By the 65-70% mark, I had guessed the plot, and I was no longer invested in the story. Towards the end, I had to resist the intense urge to skim.
Pacing - 4/5
The pacing was truly excellent. Despite the book lacking an intriguing plot, at no point was I bored. The author kept up the interest levels by ensuring tiny, bite-sized chapters which made reading this novel a breeze!
Characters - 3/5
I don't think I can talk fairly about the characters in this case, as this book is the 4th book in the series. I honestly do not have the background of reading the past three books. Hence, I refrain from commenting about the characterization in this book.
But, purely from this book's perspective, I found Ellie to have a dogged determination to find the murderers, which was good.There were a few statements like the one below:
"She couldn't let anyone else die on her watch"
which implied that Ellie could be suffering from a little bit of "God-complex". Nobody can save everybody it's simply not practical or realistic! I am not sure if that's a conscious character trait that the author crafted or an accidental quirk that got inserted.
Setup - 4/5
The mountain set-up was appropriately eerie and I think this could be an apt Halloween read for whoever reads seasonal books and celebrates the festival.
Writing style - 4/5
I found the writing to be rather accessible. The dialogues weren't too shabby either. There were one too many internal monologues though, but I can understand why that could have been necessary to the story.
Overall Rating - 3.6
Borrow grade- Book worth borrowing from the library or trading with your friends/family.
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October 24, 2021
I would like to thank Netgalley and Bookouture for an advance copy of Frozen Souls, the fourth novel to feature Detective Ellie Reeves set in the fictional Georgia town of Crooked Creek and its environs on the Appalachian Trail.
In a snowstorm the frozen body of a young woman is discovered, naked and stabbed to death. Searching the missing persons database Ellie tentatively identifies her as Nadine Houser who disappeared eleven years ago, but she doesn’t have time to fully investigate before another young woman goes missing.
I thoroughly enjoyed Frozen Souls, which is a fast paced novel with a few surprises. I wouldn’t call them twists and turns because it is a linear narrative with one discovery leading to the next.
The novel is told alternately by Ellie and her investigation and the unnamed killer, who is clearly disturbed and a psychopath by nature and nurture. For a change I found hearing from the killer quite interesting (usually I groan when I see it in a novel), not because he has anything new to say in terms of his psychopathy, but because I spent the whole novel trying to work out how he got away with his crimes when he’s obviously ill. I came to the conclusion that it suits the author, not realism, and as it makes for engrossing reading I have no argument with it.
The plot moves at a fast pace with murders, developments and the usual interdepartmental infighting. I was taken aback by the profile of some of the victims, but it makes sense in plotting terms and adds a certain frisson of nobody’s safe to the read. There is no time to ponder realism with events occurring in every chapter and taking the reader’s attention.
As ever Ellie Reeves is at the sharp end of the investigation and being undermined at every turn by Sheriff Bryce Waters. This takes a more vindictive turn in this novel, but she’s fit for him. There is also a hint of romance for her. It’s all go on all fronts.
Frozen Souls is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
In a snowstorm the frozen body of a young woman is discovered, naked and stabbed to death. Searching the missing persons database Ellie tentatively identifies her as Nadine Houser who disappeared eleven years ago, but she doesn’t have time to fully investigate before another young woman goes missing.
I thoroughly enjoyed Frozen Souls, which is a fast paced novel with a few surprises. I wouldn’t call them twists and turns because it is a linear narrative with one discovery leading to the next.
The novel is told alternately by Ellie and her investigation and the unnamed killer, who is clearly disturbed and a psychopath by nature and nurture. For a change I found hearing from the killer quite interesting (usually I groan when I see it in a novel), not because he has anything new to say in terms of his psychopathy, but because I spent the whole novel trying to work out how he got away with his crimes when he’s obviously ill. I came to the conclusion that it suits the author, not realism, and as it makes for engrossing reading I have no argument with it.
The plot moves at a fast pace with murders, developments and the usual interdepartmental infighting. I was taken aback by the profile of some of the victims, but it makes sense in plotting terms and adds a certain frisson of nobody’s safe to the read. There is no time to ponder realism with events occurring in every chapter and taking the reader’s attention.
As ever Ellie Reeves is at the sharp end of the investigation and being undermined at every turn by Sheriff Bryce Waters. This takes a more vindictive turn in this novel, but she’s fit for him. There is also a hint of romance for her. It’s all go on all fronts.
Frozen Souls is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
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