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Detective Megan Carpenter #2
Water's Edge
When the body of Leann Truitt is found in a secluded cove in Mystery Bay, Detective Megan Carpenter is one of the first on the scene. The victim has tell-tale marks on her wrists, ankles and neck where she has been bound. But that’s not all. Next to Leann’s body lies a puzzling clue—an unusual symbol scratched into a rock.
With rookie Deputy Ronnie Marsh under her wing and the investigation underway, Megan starts to receive disturbing messages. Someone knows about her traumatic past. They know what she did.
Determined to stay focused, Megan soon makes a chilling link between Leann’s brutal killing and the unsolved murder cases of two other women—all redheads with the same marks on their bodies, the same symbol carvings found at the crime scenes, and most shockingly, all had been pregnant.
The killer stalks his prey, kidnapping and torturing them in a very exact and methodical pattern. And he is not finished yet …
When the body of another woman is found bearing a striking resemblance to the other victims, Megan must crack the clues fast if she is to catch the twisted soul before they strike again.
Megan might be closing in on the killer, but someone is watching her every move. Can Megan hide the secrets of her past threatening to destroy her future? And can she protect herself and Ronnie before they both find themselves in terrible danger?
With rookie Deputy Ronnie Marsh under her wing and the investigation underway, Megan starts to receive disturbing messages. Someone knows about her traumatic past. They know what she did.
Determined to stay focused, Megan soon makes a chilling link between Leann’s brutal killing and the unsolved murder cases of two other women—all redheads with the same marks on their bodies, the same symbol carvings found at the crime scenes, and most shockingly, all had been pregnant.
The killer stalks his prey, kidnapping and torturing them in a very exact and methodical pattern. And he is not finished yet …
When the body of another woman is found bearing a striking resemblance to the other victims, Megan must crack the clues fast if she is to catch the twisted soul before they strike again.
Megan might be closing in on the killer, but someone is watching her every move. Can Megan hide the secrets of her past threatening to destroy her future? And can she protect herself and Ronnie before they both find themselves in terrible danger?
320 pages, Paperback
First published May 28, 2020
8122 people are currently reading
2910 people want to read
About the author
Gregg Olsen
118 books7,154 followersThroughout his career, Gregg Olsen has demonstrated an ability to create a detailed narrative that offers readers fascinating insights into the lives of people caught in extraordinary circumstances.
A #1 New York Times bestselling author, Olsen has written ten nonfiction books, ten novels, and contributed a short story to a collection edited by Lee Child.
The award-winning author has been a guest on dozens of national and local television shows, including educational programs for the History Channel, Learning Channel, and Discovery Channel. He has also appeared on Good Morning America, The Early Show, The Today Show, FOX News; CNN, Anderson Cooper 360, MSNBC, Entertainment Tonight, CBS 48 Hours, Oxygen’s Snapped, Court TV’s Crier Live, Inside Edition, Extra, Access Hollywood, and A&E’s Biography.
In addition to television and radio appearances, the award-winning author has been featured in Redbook, USA Today, People, Salon magazine, Seattle Times, Los Angeles Times and the New York Post.
The Deep Dark was named Idaho Book of the Year by the ILA and Starvation Heights was honored by Washington’s Secretary of State for the book’s contribution to Washington state history and culture.
Olsen, a Seattle native, lives in Olalla, Washington with his wife and Suri (a mini dachshund so spoiled she wears a sweater).
A #1 New York Times bestselling author, Olsen has written ten nonfiction books, ten novels, and contributed a short story to a collection edited by Lee Child.
The award-winning author has been a guest on dozens of national and local television shows, including educational programs for the History Channel, Learning Channel, and Discovery Channel. He has also appeared on Good Morning America, The Early Show, The Today Show, FOX News; CNN, Anderson Cooper 360, MSNBC, Entertainment Tonight, CBS 48 Hours, Oxygen’s Snapped, Court TV’s Crier Live, Inside Edition, Extra, Access Hollywood, and A&E’s Biography.
In addition to television and radio appearances, the award-winning author has been featured in Redbook, USA Today, People, Salon magazine, Seattle Times, Los Angeles Times and the New York Post.
The Deep Dark was named Idaho Book of the Year by the ILA and Starvation Heights was honored by Washington’s Secretary of State for the book’s contribution to Washington state history and culture.
Olsen, a Seattle native, lives in Olalla, Washington with his wife and Suri (a mini dachshund so spoiled she wears a sweater).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 349 reviews
May 28, 2020
WATER’S EDGE by Gregg Olsen is the second book in a series featuring Detective Megan Carpenter and largely set in and around Port Townsend, Washington. The novel is a police procedural with a lot of suspense.
The story begins with another interesting hook and never lets up. When Leann Truitt’s body is found in Mystery Bay, Detective Megan Carpenter is sent to the scene. While she normally works alone, this time she is instructed to take rookie Deputy Ronnie Marsh with her. When connections are found to cases in nearby counties, Megan and Ronnie work to identify and catch the killer. But more is going on that meets the initial eye. Additionally, Megan is still coping with secrets from her childhood when she had a different name. Can she cope with her memories and still solve a murder? Who is sending her disturbing messages about her past?
The characters are compelling as well as memorable and Megan is definitely someone you can cheer for. Her character feels real and three-dimensional. She is likeable and relatable, but seriously flawed. She shows character growth in this book in both her relations with Ronnie and with Dan. The secondary characters are well-rounded and the relationships are believable.
This book is fast paced and I did not want to stop reading it even when it was very late and I needed to sleep. The author does a great job of worldbuilding and gives the reader a vivid sense of the place and people. The main plot as well as many of the auxiliary story lines are wrapped up with some twists and shocks. However, there are a few open items that will likely play into future books in the series. The story flows well and kept me guessing. Danger and tension built rapidly. Overall, this was compelling, suspenseful, fast-paced and twisty.
This is the second book that I have read by this author and I am looking forward to the next book in the series. The series is fresh and it just keeps getting better and better. I believe those readers that enjoy crime fiction and police procedurals with a little something extra will enjoy this book.
Many thanks to Bookouture and Gregg Olsen for a compl1mentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley and the opportunity to provide an honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way.
The story begins with another interesting hook and never lets up. When Leann Truitt’s body is found in Mystery Bay, Detective Megan Carpenter is sent to the scene. While she normally works alone, this time she is instructed to take rookie Deputy Ronnie Marsh with her. When connections are found to cases in nearby counties, Megan and Ronnie work to identify and catch the killer. But more is going on that meets the initial eye. Additionally, Megan is still coping with secrets from her childhood when she had a different name. Can she cope with her memories and still solve a murder? Who is sending her disturbing messages about her past?
The characters are compelling as well as memorable and Megan is definitely someone you can cheer for. Her character feels real and three-dimensional. She is likeable and relatable, but seriously flawed. She shows character growth in this book in both her relations with Ronnie and with Dan. The secondary characters are well-rounded and the relationships are believable.
This book is fast paced and I did not want to stop reading it even when it was very late and I needed to sleep. The author does a great job of worldbuilding and gives the reader a vivid sense of the place and people. The main plot as well as many of the auxiliary story lines are wrapped up with some twists and shocks. However, there are a few open items that will likely play into future books in the series. The story flows well and kept me guessing. Danger and tension built rapidly. Overall, this was compelling, suspenseful, fast-paced and twisty.
This is the second book that I have read by this author and I am looking forward to the next book in the series. The series is fresh and it just keeps getting better and better. I believe those readers that enjoy crime fiction and police procedurals with a little something extra will enjoy this book.
Many thanks to Bookouture and Gregg Olsen for a compl1mentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley and the opportunity to provide an honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way.
May 12, 2020
Detective Megan Carpenter is no ordinary policewoman. She is the daughter of a serial killer and deeply flawed as a result of her traumatic childhood, always on the move with her mother and brother. She mostly copes by listening to tapes from thirteen years of sessions with her psychologist. She's smart and intuitive with a photographic memory and she likes to work alone. However, she's been given a trainee detective to tag along with her, Ronnie Marsh, a fresh faced young woman who never stops talking. On her first day they are called out to view the body of a badly battered young woman found on the coast. Megan has a bad feeling that the woman is not the first victim of this particular killer and soon she has found two similar previous cases in nearby counties.
The novel moves at a fast pace as Megan and Ronnie review the evidence from all the cases, following up with witnesses and finding the common threads. The suspense is gripping and addictive with an added hint of danger from the chilling emails Megan receives from a stalker. Her past life always shadows her and although she has difficulty getting close to people, she finds herself warming to Ronnie and actually enjoying having a partner. She is also taking tentative steps towards a relationship with a man she met in her previous case. Even though she is flawed with a big chip on her shoulder and a dangerous history she keeps hidden, Megan is a very likeable character, capable of personal growth, making an excellent detective with her insightful observation of people and situations.
With thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for a copy to read
The novel moves at a fast pace as Megan and Ronnie review the evidence from all the cases, following up with witnesses and finding the common threads. The suspense is gripping and addictive with an added hint of danger from the chilling emails Megan receives from a stalker. Her past life always shadows her and although she has difficulty getting close to people, she finds herself warming to Ronnie and actually enjoying having a partner. She is also taking tentative steps towards a relationship with a man she met in her previous case. Even though she is flawed with a big chip on her shoulder and a dangerous history she keeps hidden, Megan is a very likeable character, capable of personal growth, making an excellent detective with her insightful observation of people and situations.
With thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for a copy to read
January 20, 2024
The second book in the series and we learn more about Detective Megan Carpenter's challenging past. At this point I am surprised she ever made it into law enforcement, but she did and so far it appears to be a good thing!
Megan is a loner with a serious determination to catch the bad guys. In Water's Edge she is obliged to take on a rookie partner and she finds that there are some benefits to working with someone. The plot is clever and with hindsight there were many indications of who might have been the killer. However there were lots of red herrings. I had my sights firmly set on one character until he died too!
It was all very enjoyable and I am looking forward to continuing with this series.
Megan is a loner with a serious determination to catch the bad guys. In Water's Edge she is obliged to take on a rookie partner and she finds that there are some benefits to working with someone. The plot is clever and with hindsight there were many indications of who might have been the killer. However there were lots of red herrings. I had my sights firmly set on one character until he died too!
It was all very enjoyable and I am looking forward to continuing with this series.
December 15, 2022
When Leann Truitt’s dead body is found posed on a beach off of Mystery Bay in western Washington state, Detective Megan Carpenter is called in to investigate. Almost immediately, she realizes the poor girl has been murdered with contusions to her wrists, ankles, and neck that indicate she’d been chained and strangled. Adding to the mystery is a rock found close by that has an odd symbol etched into it.
As Megan widens her search for similar murders in the area she is shocked to find two more dead young women that look like they could be Leann’s sisters: all with red hair, in shape, and in their early twenties. But that’s not all, they each had also been viciously beaten, strangled, and were recently pregnant.
Megan knows she’s chasing a methodical, organized killer, so when a fourth body is found the clock to catch the the disturbed individual has just sped up. But while she fights to make the murderer pay and find justice for the victims, the situation is complicated by a person hounding Megan. To make matters worse, they know too much about her past and the dark things that live there. Are the secrets she’s been able to keep hidden from everyone around her finally going to come out and ruin her life? And will she manage to catch whoever is behind the deaths before more women die? For that matter, can Megan get the killer before he gets her?
I don’t know why, but this review has been difficult for me to write. Chilling and dark, Water’s Edge is a true-to-life, gritty, and entirely believable police procedural novel centered around justice seeking Detective Megan Carpenter who is willing to do anything to avenge the murder victims that cross her desk. With realistic investigative and forensic detail, the pacing was solid and unwound well with constantly building tension.
Interwoven into the case surrounding the creepy symbols and murdered women is Megan’s own story. One that sees her learning to come to terms with her past, one that still pursues her. Told via old cassette tapes of Megan with her therapist, this past storyline continued to grow and gain shape, which is where I found one of the few flaws in this book: the lack of a recap on relevant events that occurred in the first novel in the series, Snow Creek (thankfully, I take notes). Without that information, I wouldn’t have been completely lost, but I certainly would have been more confused on the unfolding background plot, which appears to be emerging a little with each book.
With an onion-like plot consisting of layers of secrets, threats, and mysteries, I was especially pleased with the smart and well-crafted climax. One where just when you think it’s over…it isn’t. I did find the beginning to read a bit dry (lots of details without a ton of action), but, in a way, that made it more realistic with a true crime feel. If you enjoy a good police procedural novel, this one is for you. Now on to the next book in the series, Silent Ridge (this time I won’t leave quite so long between them). Rating of 4 stars.
Trigger warning: rape, kidnapping, insinuation of child molestation, stalking, giving baby up for adoption
As Megan widens her search for similar murders in the area she is shocked to find two more dead young women that look like they could be Leann’s sisters: all with red hair, in shape, and in their early twenties. But that’s not all, they each had also been viciously beaten, strangled, and were recently pregnant.
Megan knows she’s chasing a methodical, organized killer, so when a fourth body is found the clock to catch the the disturbed individual has just sped up. But while she fights to make the murderer pay and find justice for the victims, the situation is complicated by a person hounding Megan. To make matters worse, they know too much about her past and the dark things that live there. Are the secrets she’s been able to keep hidden from everyone around her finally going to come out and ruin her life? And will she manage to catch whoever is behind the deaths before more women die? For that matter, can Megan get the killer before he gets her?
I don’t know why, but this review has been difficult for me to write. Chilling and dark, Water’s Edge is a true-to-life, gritty, and entirely believable police procedural novel centered around justice seeking Detective Megan Carpenter who is willing to do anything to avenge the murder victims that cross her desk. With realistic investigative and forensic detail, the pacing was solid and unwound well with constantly building tension.
Interwoven into the case surrounding the creepy symbols and murdered women is Megan’s own story. One that sees her learning to come to terms with her past, one that still pursues her. Told via old cassette tapes of Megan with her therapist, this past storyline continued to grow and gain shape, which is where I found one of the few flaws in this book: the lack of a recap on relevant events that occurred in the first novel in the series, Snow Creek (thankfully, I take notes). Without that information, I wouldn’t have been completely lost, but I certainly would have been more confused on the unfolding background plot, which appears to be emerging a little with each book.
With an onion-like plot consisting of layers of secrets, threats, and mysteries, I was especially pleased with the smart and well-crafted climax. One where just when you think it’s over…it isn’t. I did find the beginning to read a bit dry (lots of details without a ton of action), but, in a way, that made it more realistic with a true crime feel. If you enjoy a good police procedural novel, this one is for you. Now on to the next book in the series, Silent Ridge (this time I won’t leave quite so long between them). Rating of 4 stars.
Trigger warning: rape, kidnapping, insinuation of child molestation, stalking, giving baby up for adoption
May 13, 2020
I received an advance copy of this book from net galley and the publisher in return for an honest review. Release date for this book is 28 May 2020
This just wasn’t my type of book. It was fast paced enough but I found that I didn’t particularly like the main character, which can be a problem. I found some of the backstory on the main character to be very far-fetched and unappealing. I can see how this book would appeal to a lot of people it just didn’t do it for me
This just wasn’t my type of book. It was fast paced enough but I found that I didn’t particularly like the main character, which can be a problem. I found some of the backstory on the main character to be very far-fetched and unappealing. I can see how this book would appeal to a lot of people it just didn’t do it for me
July 30, 2020
I love a book that gets you in from the get go, if your looking for a author like that Gregg Olsen is for you. Waters Edge ( Megan Carpenter ) 2 is a fast paced no nonsense book with great characters, the prose is top notch & I couldn't turn the pages fast enough.
Megan Carpenter & her team investigate the brutal murder of a girl on Marrowstone Island, her legs spread with a rock between them & has reddish hair the witness Robbie Boyd said she was wearing panties & a bra, she was battered around the face split lip & had dark indented marks around her wrists & ankles.
As the case develops Carpenter & her team find that two women 2 years earlier both had red hair & their babies were adopted out one was taken out which was hard to read. The further we go into the book we find out that Megan's home life was as bad as the murdered girls, so she had empathy for them & her emotions were all over the place, her mother a manipulator & Megan & her brother were always on the move, Hayden was in Afghanistan, Megan was always trying to be strong for him & does not break down easily.
MY THOUGHTS
I love Gregg Olsen he knows how to bring a story to life & make you believe what he was writing, the character development of Megan was well written I loved finding out more about her, she is one tough cop who will not stop until she finds the truth.
Megan Carpenter & her team investigate the brutal murder of a girl on Marrowstone Island, her legs spread with a rock between them & has reddish hair the witness Robbie Boyd said she was wearing panties & a bra, she was battered around the face split lip & had dark indented marks around her wrists & ankles.
As the case develops Carpenter & her team find that two women 2 years earlier both had red hair & their babies were adopted out one was taken out which was hard to read. The further we go into the book we find out that Megan's home life was as bad as the murdered girls, so she had empathy for them & her emotions were all over the place, her mother a manipulator & Megan & her brother were always on the move, Hayden was in Afghanistan, Megan was always trying to be strong for him & does not break down easily.
MY THOUGHTS
I love Gregg Olsen he knows how to bring a story to life & make you believe what he was writing, the character development of Megan was well written I loved finding out more about her, she is one tough cop who will not stop until she finds the truth.
May 13, 2020
This just wasn’t my type of book. It was fast paced enough but I found that I didn’t particularly like the main character, which can be a problem. I found some of the backstory on the main character to be very far-fetched and unappealing. I can see how this book would appeal to a lot of people it just didn’t do it for me.
May 28, 2020
This is the second in the Megan Carpenter series and not at all a disappointment after the first one. Megan is dealing with a dead body and is soon to realise that she may be dealing with a sadistic serial killer. It hits her hard and she has flash backs to her childhood haunt her as the betrayal of her biological father, who was also a serial killer.
To be honest I found the back history a little distracting from the current story.
This book has Megan reluctantly taking on an assistant, at trainee cop who is her polar opposite. She also finds herself having to work with two other jurisdictions which strains her limited social skills. Megan is a lone operator with little faith in others.
There were several times when I thought I knew who the culprit was only for the story to take a twist and move in another direction.
The story has definitely left me wanting to read book 3. Thank you Bookouture and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this digital ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
To be honest I found the back history a little distracting from the current story.
This book has Megan reluctantly taking on an assistant, at trainee cop who is her polar opposite. She also finds herself having to work with two other jurisdictions which strains her limited social skills. Megan is a lone operator with little faith in others.
There were several times when I thought I knew who the culprit was only for the story to take a twist and move in another direction.
The story has definitely left me wanting to read book 3. Thank you Bookouture and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this digital ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
April 27, 2020
3.5 stars, rounded up
Megan Carpenter doesn’t want a partner. But she’s been saddled with a newbie deputy, complete with power suit and high heels. But she does have her uses. Megan has also caught a dead body left poised by the water’s edge of an isolated cove. A murder that has similarities to other cases in nearby counties.
The book not only gives us Megan’s chapters, but an unknown victim’s as well.
I had enjoyed the first book in the series and this one continued the trend. I love Megan’s way of looking at the world. Her powers of observation and her way of describing people and things really worked for me. We also continue to learn more about Megan’s backstory and what shaped her.
The story moves along at a fairly rapid pace. Short chapters. It’s a nice straightforward police procedural with several twists, turns and red herrings.
My thanks to netgalley and Bookouture for an advance copy of this book.
Megan Carpenter doesn’t want a partner. But she’s been saddled with a newbie deputy, complete with power suit and high heels. But she does have her uses. Megan has also caught a dead body left poised by the water’s edge of an isolated cove. A murder that has similarities to other cases in nearby counties.
The book not only gives us Megan’s chapters, but an unknown victim’s as well.
I had enjoyed the first book in the series and this one continued the trend. I love Megan’s way of looking at the world. Her powers of observation and her way of describing people and things really worked for me. We also continue to learn more about Megan’s backstory and what shaped her.
The story moves along at a fairly rapid pace. Short chapters. It’s a nice straightforward police procedural with several twists, turns and red herrings.
My thanks to netgalley and Bookouture for an advance copy of this book.
May 31, 2020
Detective Megan Carpenter is assigned to work with rookie Reserve Deputy Ronnie Marsh on a temporary basis. Used to working alone, their relationship is not an easy one, but they are both trying.
A woman's body is found in a cove in Mystery Bay ..... she's been beaten, assaulted, tortured. Megan makes a link between this woman and two other women who were found in the same shape. They were all redheads ... and they all had had a child.
Now that Megan and Ronnie have started their investigation, someone has eyes on Megan. The threatening notes hint at Megan's traumatic past ... they know what she did.
This is a fast-paced .... action packed ... page turner with skillfully drawn characters. I like how Megan's personal life has such a bearing on her professional one and how she deals with the issues her childhood have presented. She's gutsy, dedicated, and determined .. a great series figure. Although second in the series, this is easily read as a stand alone, although I do recommend starting at the beginning. It's full of those little gold nuggets that add majestically to a solidly written plot. The ending is explosive and unexpected.
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.
A woman's body is found in a cove in Mystery Bay ..... she's been beaten, assaulted, tortured. Megan makes a link between this woman and two other women who were found in the same shape. They were all redheads ... and they all had had a child.
Now that Megan and Ronnie have started their investigation, someone has eyes on Megan. The threatening notes hint at Megan's traumatic past ... they know what she did.
This is a fast-paced .... action packed ... page turner with skillfully drawn characters. I like how Megan's personal life has such a bearing on her professional one and how she deals with the issues her childhood have presented. She's gutsy, dedicated, and determined .. a great series figure. Although second in the series, this is easily read as a stand alone, although I do recommend starting at the beginning. It's full of those little gold nuggets that add majestically to a solidly written plot. The ending is explosive and unexpected.
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.
Read
May 22, 2020Water’s Edge by Gregg Olsen is the second in the Detective Megan Carpenter Tapes series.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Bookouture, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Series Background: (Warning – May contain spoilers from previous books)
Megan Carpenter is a detective in Port Townsend, Washington. Her childhood was a nightmare, with a mother who did little but lie. Her brother Hayden, who she tried to protect, is in Afghanistan. He holds her responsible for leaving him without any family. She feels bad for Hayden, but not for the things she had to do so that they both would survive. She is re-living her childhood by listening to tapes made by a therapist, who is the only one who knows her full story.
My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions)
The body of a young red-headed woman is found at the base of a cliff in a secluded cove. By the marks on her wrists, ankles and neck, it is apparent that she has been held captive. The broken bones show she had been tortured. The autopsy results show rape, and confirm murder.
Then they realize that this is not the first woman to die by this killer's hands, and it probably won't be the last.
Detective Megan Carpenter has rookie Ronnie Marsh with her, and as much as Megan wants to work alone, it is hard to deny that Ronnie seems to be pretty helpful.
Meanwhile, someone is leaving Megan messages....someone that knows her past, and because of this case, memories from that past are rising to the surface.
My Opinions:
A great addition to the new series by Gregg Olsen. I love his books (okay, most of them).
Olsen has created a wonderful cast of characters, a number of them seriously flawed, but likable. With each book we are learning more about Megan and her horrific past, and it is done in such a way that the reader really feels for her, while sometimes being a little shocked and horrified.
The plot was interesting and the suspense intense. The suspects were many, and although there was a twist, I saw through it.
Can't wait for the next one....this ended in a bit of a cliff-hanger.
For a more complete review of this book and others (including author information and quotations), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/
May 31, 2020
Detective Megan Carpenter's eidetic memory often lends itself well as she lands upon another brutal crime scene. Remembering every single thing in exact detail sometimes created great stress to Megan, but it sometimes proves to be exactly what allows her to get to the bottom of even the most difficult cases.
As she approaches the crime scene and looks over the body of woman named Leann Truitt, Maggie takes in the gruesome details, including something that is an apparent clue. Meanwhile, Megan must contend with the fact that she is assigned to work with Reserve Deputy Ronnie Marsh. Megan works alone. Her boss, Sheriff Gray, knows that. As a matter of fact, he knows Megan very well, including the secrets of her past. Yet, he assigns Ronnie to Megan, so they must make it work.
Details involving the current murder victim reminds Megan of past unsolved murder cases, and so she begins to think that they are all connected. But then another body is found and Maggie and Ronnie begin a chase that must come to an end quickly, with hopes that no more women will be murdered by the elusive killer.
What a thrilling book by Gregg Olsen. This is the second book in The Detective Megan Carter series. The first book, Snow Creek, allowed the reader to get to know Megan and how she escaped a horrible past and made a very successful life for herself, despite memories creeping in more than she'd like to admit, which is often quite painful. This lends itself to the strength she shows despite said pain. So, as readers get even closer to Megan in Water's Edge, they also ride along on a bumpy trail filled with twists and turns, all leading to a thrilling end. The conclusion is tinged with a mix of sadness and hope, leaving me more than eager for the next book in this series.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
As she approaches the crime scene and looks over the body of woman named Leann Truitt, Maggie takes in the gruesome details, including something that is an apparent clue. Meanwhile, Megan must contend with the fact that she is assigned to work with Reserve Deputy Ronnie Marsh. Megan works alone. Her boss, Sheriff Gray, knows that. As a matter of fact, he knows Megan very well, including the secrets of her past. Yet, he assigns Ronnie to Megan, so they must make it work.
Details involving the current murder victim reminds Megan of past unsolved murder cases, and so she begins to think that they are all connected. But then another body is found and Maggie and Ronnie begin a chase that must come to an end quickly, with hopes that no more women will be murdered by the elusive killer.
What a thrilling book by Gregg Olsen. This is the second book in The Detective Megan Carter series. The first book, Snow Creek, allowed the reader to get to know Megan and how she escaped a horrible past and made a very successful life for herself, despite memories creeping in more than she'd like to admit, which is often quite painful. This lends itself to the strength she shows despite said pain. So, as readers get even closer to Megan in Water's Edge, they also ride along on a bumpy trail filled with twists and turns, all leading to a thrilling end. The conclusion is tinged with a mix of sadness and hope, leaving me more than eager for the next book in this series.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
May 13, 2020
*Source* Publisher
*Genre* Mystery
*Rating* 3.5-4
*Thoughts*
Water's Edge is the second installment in author Gregg Olsen's Detective Megan Carpenter series. The author returns to Jefferson County, Washington for this follow up to Snow Creek. So, from the outset, let me say that this story actually follows several storylines. One storyline is that someone knows who Megan Carpenter was before she was a cop. Someone is apparently stalking her and sending her creepy messages about knowing what she did last summer. Oops! Sorry, I meant to say they know what she did years ago that readers are now seeing thru flashbacks.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
*Genre* Mystery
*Rating* 3.5-4
*Thoughts*
Water's Edge is the second installment in author Gregg Olsen's Detective Megan Carpenter series. The author returns to Jefferson County, Washington for this follow up to Snow Creek. So, from the outset, let me say that this story actually follows several storylines. One storyline is that someone knows who Megan Carpenter was before she was a cop. Someone is apparently stalking her and sending her creepy messages about knowing what she did last summer. Oops! Sorry, I meant to say they know what she did years ago that readers are now seeing thru flashbacks.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
May 31, 2020
Someone is kidnapping, torturing and killing young women who've been pregnant. It's up to Detective Megan Carpenter out of the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office and trainee Reserve Deputy Ronnie Marsh to track down this monster while liaising with other jurisdictions along the western Washington State coast. There's no shortage of suspects, and their work is cut out for them when they discover that the linked murdered victims' cases weren't ever thoroughly investigated. Can they unravel this very complicated trail and find the serial killer? NO SPOILERS.
I really enjoy this series and the author's writing style. Megan is an interesting character with a tragic past since she's the daughter of a serial killer herself. She's still messed up and spends most of her evenings listening to old tapes she made with her therapist while drinking scotch or wine. I like that we are finding out more about her backstory and that she is beginning to be able to develop personal relationships. I liked the interplay between Megan and Ronnie -- oh I do hope that they will somehow continue to partner on any future books in this series. I definitely like where this is going and am quite interested to see what happens in the next installment.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookoutre for this e-book ARC to read, review and recommend.
I really enjoy this series and the author's writing style. Megan is an interesting character with a tragic past since she's the daughter of a serial killer herself. She's still messed up and spends most of her evenings listening to old tapes she made with her therapist while drinking scotch or wine. I like that we are finding out more about her backstory and that she is beginning to be able to develop personal relationships. I liked the interplay between Megan and Ronnie -- oh I do hope that they will somehow continue to partner on any future books in this series. I definitely like where this is going and am quite interested to see what happens in the next installment.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookoutre for this e-book ARC to read, review and recommend.
July 3, 2020
After reading the first book in the series - Snow Creek, I knew that I absolutely had to read the next book & I was glad I did. Water's Edge is a great new addition to the Detective Megan Carpenter series. The cover too was fabulous. I liked that there were some new characters introduced & hopefully we see them develop in future books. The plot is suspenseful & the case is tricky. There were a good number of twists & nail-biting moments that had me racing through the book. Megan is a complex character & its nice to see that the author teases out her quirks & characteristics in a very well-paced manner. I liked Ronnie & hope to see more of her in the next books. I wouldn't mind some more quirky characters on the team, Right now, Megan flies solo most of the time & it would be nice to see her develop a rapport with some more characters. Although it was considerably easy to guess who the killer was, the plot twists had me second-guessing everything. The end was amazing & I cant wait to read more about Carpenter & her 'dysfunctional' family.
Thank You, NetGalley, Bookouture & Gregg Olsen for an arc!
Thank You, NetGalley, Bookouture & Gregg Olsen for an arc!
August 6, 2020
Water's Edge is the second book in the Detective Megan Carpenter series by Gregg Olsen.
Detective Megan Carpenter, from Jefferson County Sheriff's Office is called to investigate when a woman, later identified as Leann Truitt, is found in a cove on Mystery Bay. There are obvious clues that the victim had been bound and an odd symbol had been carved into the rock next to the body. With newbie Reserve Deputy Ronnie Marsh as her sidekick, Megan has an intuition that redhead Leann is not the killer's first victim. But then another body is found and Megan and Ronnie begin a chase that must be concluded quickly, before any more women are murdered by the elusive killer.
The characters were compelling as well as memorable and Megan was definitely someone I wanted to cheer for. Her character felt genuine, though flawed and I liked her for her determination and gutsiness. The supporting characters were all well-rounded, their relationships very believable. Water's Edge was a fast-paced, action packed, page turner and I loved that Megan's personal life had a bearing on her professional one.
Although Water's Edge is the second instalment in the series, it was easily read as a standalone. Full of little gems that refine a solid plot, the ending was explosive and unexpected. I have been inspired to read the series opener, Snow Creek, as well as excitedly anticipating book three.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Bookouture via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
Detective Megan Carpenter, from Jefferson County Sheriff's Office is called to investigate when a woman, later identified as Leann Truitt, is found in a cove on Mystery Bay. There are obvious clues that the victim had been bound and an odd symbol had been carved into the rock next to the body. With newbie Reserve Deputy Ronnie Marsh as her sidekick, Megan has an intuition that redhead Leann is not the killer's first victim. But then another body is found and Megan and Ronnie begin a chase that must be concluded quickly, before any more women are murdered by the elusive killer.
The characters were compelling as well as memorable and Megan was definitely someone I wanted to cheer for. Her character felt genuine, though flawed and I liked her for her determination and gutsiness. The supporting characters were all well-rounded, their relationships very believable. Water's Edge was a fast-paced, action packed, page turner and I loved that Megan's personal life had a bearing on her professional one.
Although Water's Edge is the second instalment in the series, it was easily read as a standalone. Full of little gems that refine a solid plot, the ending was explosive and unexpected. I have been inspired to read the series opener, Snow Creek, as well as excitedly anticipating book three.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Bookouture via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
November 10, 2024
Why is it that authors think a female police officer must be self-entitled, obnoxious, and an alcoholic in order to be respected?!! I like this author, and the storyline is good, but dang, I hate the protagonist’s personality. That is so unnecessary! I found myself becoming more and more irritated as the book went on!
October 28, 2020
Two-haiku review:
Woman's body found
Two more similar cases
Raped, posed near water
Second of series
Learn more about Megan's past
But story not done
Woman's body found
Two more similar cases
Raped, posed near water
Second of series
Learn more about Megan's past
But story not done
May 22, 2020
I am grateful to Netgalley and Bookouture for my ARC of Water’s Edge by Gregg Olsen – the second in the Detective Megan Carpenter thriller series.
Set in the picturesque Jefferson County, Washington, this story follows Megan as she investigates a murder that looks to be the work of a serial killer who tortures and kills young women of certain specifications. Megan is a strong protagonist – with a photographic memory, a dislike for rules, and a fearlessness born out of a horrific past. Her past, severely messed up as it is, threatens to unhinge her present every now and then. Additionally, someone with intimate knowledge of her otherwise well-hidden past is stalking her. A lone-wolf, she is annoyed at being paired with a trainee deputy, Ronnie Marsh, who looks rich and spoiled at the outset.
The plot is gripping, as Megan embarks on the race to catch the killer, using means both legal and illegal, parallelly fighting an inner battle with herself and an external one with male dominance. The author’s descriptions of the settings and the characters are vivid and play a vital role in escalating the tension. The character of Megan, and that of Ronnie, are very well etched, and the reader is compelled to care about what happens to them. The action is brisk and the pages keep turning by themselves.
In spite of all these good things, I felt somewhat dissatisfied with the book, mainly due to the lack of a convincing explanation for the killer’s motivation. Being part of a series, this book has several hanging ends that force the reader to get the next book know what happens – a feature I dislike immensely. The end of the book seemed rushed, and the underdeveloped descriptions of the victim’s perspective do not add value to the overall narration.
To sum up, Water’s Edge is a riveting thriller with great characterisation and a fast-paced narrative that failed to live up to the build-up, at least for me.
Set in the picturesque Jefferson County, Washington, this story follows Megan as she investigates a murder that looks to be the work of a serial killer who tortures and kills young women of certain specifications. Megan is a strong protagonist – with a photographic memory, a dislike for rules, and a fearlessness born out of a horrific past. Her past, severely messed up as it is, threatens to unhinge her present every now and then. Additionally, someone with intimate knowledge of her otherwise well-hidden past is stalking her. A lone-wolf, she is annoyed at being paired with a trainee deputy, Ronnie Marsh, who looks rich and spoiled at the outset.
The plot is gripping, as Megan embarks on the race to catch the killer, using means both legal and illegal, parallelly fighting an inner battle with herself and an external one with male dominance. The author’s descriptions of the settings and the characters are vivid and play a vital role in escalating the tension. The character of Megan, and that of Ronnie, are very well etched, and the reader is compelled to care about what happens to them. The action is brisk and the pages keep turning by themselves.
In spite of all these good things, I felt somewhat dissatisfied with the book, mainly due to the lack of a convincing explanation for the killer’s motivation. Being part of a series, this book has several hanging ends that force the reader to get the next book know what happens – a feature I dislike immensely. The end of the book seemed rushed, and the underdeveloped descriptions of the victim’s perspective do not add value to the overall narration.
To sum up, Water’s Edge is a riveting thriller with great characterisation and a fast-paced narrative that failed to live up to the build-up, at least for me.
May 31, 2020
Water’s Edge is the second book in the Megan Carpenter series by author, Gregg Olsen. The first book in the series, Snow Creek, was an unputdownable read for me and I am thrilled to say Water’s Edge kept that momentum up and did not disappoint in the slightest. Once again another unputdownable read and with only two books in, this series is really shaping up to be one of my favorites.
Detective Megan Carpenter is hot on the trail of another murderer. Someone is killing red-heads in one of the most brutal ways she has ever seen. As she tries to piece together the evidence, it slowly becomes apparent that there may be a serial killer on the loose. One she is more than happy to end. This time though she is tasked with a new rookie, Deputy Marshal Ronnie Marsh. Can the two of them together solve this case or will one of them become the next target?
Oh man! I just love Megan Carpenter! She is bass-ass and lays down some badd-assery wherever she goes. She is full of snark and kind of reminds me of Negan from Walking Dead. She is definitely a three-dimensional well thought out and well rounded character with a tragic past, which we learn a little more of during the course of this story. She also seems to have a bit of a stalker at hand who knows about her past. Will that get resolved any time soon? I am really eagerly waiting on it!
The story moves at a fast pace and grips you right from the start. There are a lot of moving parts and quite a few twists that will leave you guessing on who the culprit may be. I really had a hard time putting this book down, but that always seems to be the case when reading a story by Gregg Olsen. Olsen just builds a story out right from the very beginning and you can’t help but to get sucked right into it while rooting for Megan and hoping she lays down some bad assery on the bad guy! It almost makes you want to fist pump Jersey style when she does!
Love, love love this book! I can;t recommend it enough. If you have not started this series yet, then you have no idea what you are missing. Go and grab the first book. You can thank me later!
Detective Megan Carpenter is hot on the trail of another murderer. Someone is killing red-heads in one of the most brutal ways she has ever seen. As she tries to piece together the evidence, it slowly becomes apparent that there may be a serial killer on the loose. One she is more than happy to end. This time though she is tasked with a new rookie, Deputy Marshal Ronnie Marsh. Can the two of them together solve this case or will one of them become the next target?
Oh man! I just love Megan Carpenter! She is bass-ass and lays down some badd-assery wherever she goes. She is full of snark and kind of reminds me of Negan from Walking Dead. She is definitely a three-dimensional well thought out and well rounded character with a tragic past, which we learn a little more of during the course of this story. She also seems to have a bit of a stalker at hand who knows about her past. Will that get resolved any time soon? I am really eagerly waiting on it!
The story moves at a fast pace and grips you right from the start. There are a lot of moving parts and quite a few twists that will leave you guessing on who the culprit may be. I really had a hard time putting this book down, but that always seems to be the case when reading a story by Gregg Olsen. Olsen just builds a story out right from the very beginning and you can’t help but to get sucked right into it while rooting for Megan and hoping she lays down some bad assery on the bad guy! It almost makes you want to fist pump Jersey style when she does!
Love, love love this book! I can;t recommend it enough. If you have not started this series yet, then you have no idea what you are missing. Go and grab the first book. You can thank me later!
May 30, 2020
The first book in this series, Snow Creek, was an amazing 5* read for me so when I discovered this was available I just couldn't resist - and I'm so glad I didn't! Much to her chagrin, Detective Megan Carpenter has been landed with a rookie Deputy, Ronnie Marsh and, not only that, but their first case involves the murder of a young red haired woman who has been physically and sexually abused before being deliberately laid out with an unusual symbol scratched onto a nearby rock. Their investigations show this is the third in a series of murders, now the race is on to find the perpetrator(s) before there are any more victims.....
Add into the mix that someone who knows Megan's past appears to be stalking her. . . Is her past going to threaten her future? As the two close in on the serial killer, they need to protect themselves to ensure they don't become the next victims . . .
You aren't quite sure what happened to Megan in the past but those events are slowly being revealed as the story progresses as she listens to recordings made years ago. The whole story is a complex tapestry of events from the past and present, skilfully interwoven to create an enthralling page turner that, like the first in this series, I didn't want to put down until I'd finished it. There are times when you think you know who has done what but get ready for many surprising twists and turns to throw you off balance and keep you guessing. It is another brilliant read from this talented author and I have absolutely no hesitation in highly recommending this to anyone who enjoys reading this genre and I can’t wait to read more from this series in future - I really want to know what happens with her brother!
I requested and was gifted a copy of this book via NetGalley and this is my honest review after choosing to read it and discovering what a fascinating read it is!
Add into the mix that someone who knows Megan's past appears to be stalking her. . . Is her past going to threaten her future? As the two close in on the serial killer, they need to protect themselves to ensure they don't become the next victims . . .
You aren't quite sure what happened to Megan in the past but those events are slowly being revealed as the story progresses as she listens to recordings made years ago. The whole story is a complex tapestry of events from the past and present, skilfully interwoven to create an enthralling page turner that, like the first in this series, I didn't want to put down until I'd finished it. There are times when you think you know who has done what but get ready for many surprising twists and turns to throw you off balance and keep you guessing. It is another brilliant read from this talented author and I have absolutely no hesitation in highly recommending this to anyone who enjoys reading this genre and I can’t wait to read more from this series in future - I really want to know what happens with her brother!
I requested and was gifted a copy of this book via NetGalley and this is my honest review after choosing to read it and discovering what a fascinating read it is!
May 11, 2020
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the Advanced Release Copy in exchange for my fair and honest review.
This is the second book to feature Detective Megan Carpenter, set in Washington State. When a body is discovered, Megan is sent to investigate, along with a new partner, Deputy Ronnie Marsh. I like the character of Megan, she has flaws but is very likeable. The author has vividly described the people and the places, the book is fast paced and kept me interested.
The case is interesting and full of suspects and new characters. I was so sure I had it figured out then the author throws a twist and left me reeling. I read this one straight through. I had to know how it ended. And what an ending! It left me on the edge of my seat wanting the next book now. I have a feeling we haven't seen the last of a couple of the new characters.
This is the second book to feature Detective Megan Carpenter, set in Washington State. When a body is discovered, Megan is sent to investigate, along with a new partner, Deputy Ronnie Marsh. I like the character of Megan, she has flaws but is very likeable. The author has vividly described the people and the places, the book is fast paced and kept me interested.
The case is interesting and full of suspects and new characters. I was so sure I had it figured out then the author throws a twist and left me reeling. I read this one straight through. I had to know how it ended. And what an ending! It left me on the edge of my seat wanting the next book now. I have a feeling we haven't seen the last of a couple of the new characters.
April 12, 2025
In this second installment, readers learn a little more about Megan's horrific past. She is partnered with a rookie who has a lot of skills Megan doesn't and that are very helpful in tracking down a serial killer. In spite of her initial reservations, the new partner grows on her.Rape and torture are prevalent and there is a cliffhanger about Megan's own stalker.
April 25, 2020
Book two in this fabulous series featuring Detective Megan Carpenter and this is again a brilliant read that is both gripping and with such a strong lead character in Megan it’s one that I found difficult to put down and having a lot if time on my hands I flew through it.
So Megan has what begins with the body of a young woman left badly beaten in what seems to have been posed position in a secluded inlet with an odd symbol left etched on a rock nearby. When Megan does some more investigating this throws up similar murders and with the aid of Deputy Ronnie Marsh who is new to the job the pair find more clues that connect making this look like they have a serial killer on the loose and to make things worse it also seems that Megan has someone who knows her past following her every move.
With Megan initially finding it difficult to have a rookie tagging along I found the growing friendship between these two women really enjoyable and it showed another side to the normally brusque and solitary person she is.
I love this series it’s so well written and I love the backstory of Megan and can’t wait for book three to find out more.
Well recommended and many thanks to Gregg Olsen for an amazing book.
My thanks also to NetGalley and Bookouture for giving me the chance to read the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
So Megan has what begins with the body of a young woman left badly beaten in what seems to have been posed position in a secluded inlet with an odd symbol left etched on a rock nearby. When Megan does some more investigating this throws up similar murders and with the aid of Deputy Ronnie Marsh who is new to the job the pair find more clues that connect making this look like they have a serial killer on the loose and to make things worse it also seems that Megan has someone who knows her past following her every move.
With Megan initially finding it difficult to have a rookie tagging along I found the growing friendship between these two women really enjoyable and it showed another side to the normally brusque and solitary person she is.
I love this series it’s so well written and I love the backstory of Megan and can’t wait for book three to find out more.
Well recommended and many thanks to Gregg Olsen for an amazing book.
My thanks also to NetGalley and Bookouture for giving me the chance to read the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
April 26, 2020
The storyline flows and the characters are intriguing.
I can't wait to read more!
Whole review to come once the book is published
**Thanks to Netgalley and publisher for providing me a free copy of this book in exchange for a honest review**
I can't wait to read more!
Whole review to come once the book is published
**Thanks to Netgalley and publisher for providing me a free copy of this book in exchange for a honest review**
April 25, 2020
315 pages
4 and 1 / 2 stars
A young woman's body is discovered on a rocky shore. She is later identified as Leann Truitt. She has been beaten, raped, strangled and her neck was broken. Detective Megan Carpenter catches the case – along with a trainee sidekick Ronnie, much to Megan's chagrin – and quickly identifies the woman and tracks down where she was living and her father. Her father is very odd.
Much to the Sheriff, Megan and Ronnie's surprise, Leann is just one of a series of these murders. The case becomes much larger than anyone expected. Megan and Ronnie take on the assistance of two other detectives from neighboring counties who have their own cases to look after.
Painstaking and determined police work leads the two women to a suspect. But high drama and tension occurs before the arrest can be made.
Detective Megan Carpenter is a delight – at least to me. I love her snarky attitude and all the great comments she keeps to herself. (Although as we learn, she has every reason to be that way.) She softens over as the book goes by. Gregg Olsen is a very good writer and I certainly enjoy reading his novels. I could see no typos. The only criticism I have is avery minor one. There were a couple of places in the book where the author told the reader something that had been already stated. No big deal. Very well done, Mr. Olsen
I want to thank NetGalley and Bookouture for forwarding to me a copy of this very good book for me to read, enjoy and review.
4 and 1 / 2 stars
A young woman's body is discovered on a rocky shore. She is later identified as Leann Truitt. She has been beaten, raped, strangled and her neck was broken. Detective Megan Carpenter catches the case – along with a trainee sidekick Ronnie, much to Megan's chagrin – and quickly identifies the woman and tracks down where she was living and her father. Her father is very odd.
Much to the Sheriff, Megan and Ronnie's surprise, Leann is just one of a series of these murders. The case becomes much larger than anyone expected. Megan and Ronnie take on the assistance of two other detectives from neighboring counties who have their own cases to look after.
Painstaking and determined police work leads the two women to a suspect. But high drama and tension occurs before the arrest can be made.
Detective Megan Carpenter is a delight – at least to me. I love her snarky attitude and all the great comments she keeps to herself. (Although as we learn, she has every reason to be that way.) She softens over as the book goes by. Gregg Olsen is a very good writer and I certainly enjoy reading his novels. I could see no typos. The only criticism I have is avery minor one. There were a couple of places in the book where the author told the reader something that had been already stated. No big deal. Very well done, Mr. Olsen
I want to thank NetGalley and Bookouture for forwarding to me a copy of this very good book for me to read, enjoy and review.
May 28, 2020
“A serial killer has come to Jefferson County.”
The body of a young woman is found in a secluded cove on Marrowstone Island. She has been beaten and strangled, posed, and there is a strange symbol carved into a rock nearby. Detective Megan Carpenter is one of the first on scene and sets about trying to identify the young woman and find her killer. When she finds links to previous murders in the area it is clear they are hunting a serial killer. One whose crimes have chilling echoes of those carried out by Megan’s father. Could someone who knows about her past be sending her a chilling message?
Water’s Edge is the second installment in the Detective Megan Carpenter series. I loved the first book and was eagerly anticipating this follow up. Once again the author had me gripped from the first pages and I flew through this readable thriller.
"Someone out there knows my secrets. Someone out there wants me to suffer."
In the first book there are hints about Megan’s mysterious past. This time, her past is unveiled in more detail and features heavily in the story, allowing the reader to get to understand her better. We understand why she has closed herself off from others and lives in fear while also seeing the strength and bravery it took to have endured and risen above such a horrific past and get to where she is today. As the case triggers memories of her past and she sees similarities to her father’s crimes, Megan’s determination to get justice for the victims grows and we learn just how far she is willing to go to ensure that justice is served.
The introduction of Reserve Deputy Ronnie Marsh as Megan’s partner was an interesting character arc. Megan hates working with others and is resentful of being forced to take Ronnie under her wing, but she slowly begins to see that not going it alone can have it’s benefits, something that also makes her think about her choice to shun getting too close to new people in her personal life too. I enjoyed seeing some of Megan’s iciness thaw and her open up to having friends and relationships in her life.
Water’s Edge is a dark, harrowing, tense and gripping thriller that keeps you guessing. Fast-paced, deftly plotted and well written, it is a bumpy and twisty ride that I didn’t want to end. The author has crafted a strong second installment in this new crime series and while it can be read as a standalone I highly recommend reading the first book too and can’t wait for book three.
The body of a young woman is found in a secluded cove on Marrowstone Island. She has been beaten and strangled, posed, and there is a strange symbol carved into a rock nearby. Detective Megan Carpenter is one of the first on scene and sets about trying to identify the young woman and find her killer. When she finds links to previous murders in the area it is clear they are hunting a serial killer. One whose crimes have chilling echoes of those carried out by Megan’s father. Could someone who knows about her past be sending her a chilling message?
Water’s Edge is the second installment in the Detective Megan Carpenter series. I loved the first book and was eagerly anticipating this follow up. Once again the author had me gripped from the first pages and I flew through this readable thriller.
"Someone out there knows my secrets. Someone out there wants me to suffer."
In the first book there are hints about Megan’s mysterious past. This time, her past is unveiled in more detail and features heavily in the story, allowing the reader to get to understand her better. We understand why she has closed herself off from others and lives in fear while also seeing the strength and bravery it took to have endured and risen above such a horrific past and get to where she is today. As the case triggers memories of her past and she sees similarities to her father’s crimes, Megan’s determination to get justice for the victims grows and we learn just how far she is willing to go to ensure that justice is served.
The introduction of Reserve Deputy Ronnie Marsh as Megan’s partner was an interesting character arc. Megan hates working with others and is resentful of being forced to take Ronnie under her wing, but she slowly begins to see that not going it alone can have it’s benefits, something that also makes her think about her choice to shun getting too close to new people in her personal life too. I enjoyed seeing some of Megan’s iciness thaw and her open up to having friends and relationships in her life.
Water’s Edge is a dark, harrowing, tense and gripping thriller that keeps you guessing. Fast-paced, deftly plotted and well written, it is a bumpy and twisty ride that I didn’t want to end. The author has crafted a strong second installment in this new crime series and while it can be read as a standalone I highly recommend reading the first book too and can’t wait for book three.
June 1, 2020
This was a fast paced read, though I am not sure it did it for me overall I did not read the first book in the series, but found that I was able to figure out enough that I didn't miss it. The book centers on Megan, a police detective who is trying to solve a series of murders in Western Washington. The killer seems to be targeting women who look similar and have a history of putting up babies for adoption. Megan gets assigned a reserve deputy, Ronnie, who she reluctantly takes along with her as she investigates, and they end up building a friendship.
I liked the flow of the book and Megan herself- she was witty,scrappy, and brave. I struggled a little bit with the authenticity of whether someone like her would really be a successful police detective, based on her background with her own family situation, acts she committed during that time, and her overall attitude about taking bad people off the street permanently rather than letting justice run it's course. I found it hard to believe that she would have passed the psychological exam to get into the police force, but it is a small town after all, and perhaps I am overthinking it.
Though I liked the mystery, and the twists had me changing who I thought the culprit was regularly, when the villain was finally revealed, I didn't think I had gotten enough backstory to not only understand that person's motivations, but to care that much. I wish the author would have tied the story together better and provided some of that background info that made the actions make more sense.
Overall, a decent read with a few flaws, but was a book I enjoyed and would probably recommend for those who like mysteries and police procedurals. It didn't hurt that I like in that general vicinity and new the locations well. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I liked the flow of the book and Megan herself- she was witty,scrappy, and brave. I struggled a little bit with the authenticity of whether someone like her would really be a successful police detective, based on her background with her own family situation, acts she committed during that time, and her overall attitude about taking bad people off the street permanently rather than letting justice run it's course. I found it hard to believe that she would have passed the psychological exam to get into the police force, but it is a small town after all, and perhaps I am overthinking it.
Though I liked the mystery, and the twists had me changing who I thought the culprit was regularly, when the villain was finally revealed, I didn't think I had gotten enough backstory to not only understand that person's motivations, but to care that much. I wish the author would have tied the story together better and provided some of that background info that made the actions make more sense.
Overall, a decent read with a few flaws, but was a book I enjoyed and would probably recommend for those who like mysteries and police procedurals. It didn't hurt that I like in that general vicinity and new the locations well. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 3, 2020
When the body of a young woman is found on an isolated beach Detective Megan Carpenter is assigned the case. She is also assigned a partner, Reserve Deputy Ronnie Marsh, and Megan works alone! It soon becomes clear the victim is one of three; there is a serial killer on the loose and time is of the essence.
While working the case Megan is still making her way through the tapes given to her by her college therapist, finding out more about herself and why she sees the world the way she does. She also thinks she has a stalker, she has never seen anyone but they still make contact and know far too much about her.
Once again Gregg Olsen delivers a crime mystery which draws you in, lays the clues out and then leaves you to flounder. I guessed one bit, hoped I was right on another, and missed the mark totally on the rest! The story flows, the tension, as is key in all Mr Olsen's work, increases pretty much without fanfare, and everything comes together as you realise danger is everywhere and maybe both you and Megan missed something vital.
There are still things left to be discovered about Megan and her past, her family, and why she behaves as she does. A loner because of fear, a cop because of a need to prevent history ever repeating itself and a deep thinker because who could she ever share any of this with, her way of being is hard to take sometimes. By writing in the first person however, the author gives the reader the privilege of moving through each chapter with Megan to witness the changes even she isn't aware of yet. It is very cleverly and satisfyingly right; I want to know what happens next and I am absolutely sure I will be surprised, dismayed, and cheering her on, every step of the way.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers in exchange for an unbiased review and would recommend it to anyone who read and enjoyed the first book. If you want first class, character driven crime fiction this is also the book and author for you as Mr Olsen is one of the best writers in this genre at present.
While working the case Megan is still making her way through the tapes given to her by her college therapist, finding out more about herself and why she sees the world the way she does. She also thinks she has a stalker, she has never seen anyone but they still make contact and know far too much about her.
Once again Gregg Olsen delivers a crime mystery which draws you in, lays the clues out and then leaves you to flounder. I guessed one bit, hoped I was right on another, and missed the mark totally on the rest! The story flows, the tension, as is key in all Mr Olsen's work, increases pretty much without fanfare, and everything comes together as you realise danger is everywhere and maybe both you and Megan missed something vital.
There are still things left to be discovered about Megan and her past, her family, and why she behaves as she does. A loner because of fear, a cop because of a need to prevent history ever repeating itself and a deep thinker because who could she ever share any of this with, her way of being is hard to take sometimes. By writing in the first person however, the author gives the reader the privilege of moving through each chapter with Megan to witness the changes even she isn't aware of yet. It is very cleverly and satisfyingly right; I want to know what happens next and I am absolutely sure I will be surprised, dismayed, and cheering her on, every step of the way.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers in exchange for an unbiased review and would recommend it to anyone who read and enjoyed the first book. If you want first class, character driven crime fiction this is also the book and author for you as Mr Olsen is one of the best writers in this genre at present.
May 23, 2020
Water's Edge (Detective Megan Carpenter #2) by Gregg Olsen is another suspense thriller which finds Detective Megan Carpenter trying to bring justice for three murdered women. I won't post spoilers, but the story is fast-paced and held my interest. I want to like Megan Carpenter, but she is a tough character with her own style of finding justice for victims. She does not adhere to the rules, but she does get answers by manipulation of others. Do the ends justify the means? Megan is a survivor! She has learned the hard way how to live alone and trust no one.
In this book, she is given a reserve deputy to train and Megan does not plan to like Ronnie Marsh. As the case progresses, Megan is impressed with the ease in which Ronnie is able to acquire information on the go each day. Megan is also receiving emails from a stalker which have a threatening tone. It must be someone from her past.
I enjoyed the book which is written with a gritty and strong female character who also has a vulnerability which is heartbreaking.
Publication Date: May 28, 2020
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
In this book, she is given a reserve deputy to train and Megan does not plan to like Ronnie Marsh. As the case progresses, Megan is impressed with the ease in which Ronnie is able to acquire information on the go each day. Megan is also receiving emails from a stalker which have a threatening tone. It must be someone from her past.
I enjoyed the book which is written with a gritty and strong female character who also has a vulnerability which is heartbreaking.
Publication Date: May 28, 2020
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
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