What do you think?
Rate this book
Detective Katie Scott #6
Pretty Broken Dolls
In the thin light of the moon, the woman’s limp body hangs from the iron fence amongst the redwoods. Looped over the railings is the little gold locket her mother gave her when she turned sixteen. The picture of the girl inside smiles out at a future she’ll never see…
As day breaks over the fairground, Detective Katie Scott forces herself to take in another disturbing scene in front of her. A woman, the same age as her, found slumped in the carriage of the Ferris wheel, red lipstick dragged across her lips, her throat cut.
Katie doesn’t want to believe that the serial killer picking off women across the state has found their way to the small town of Pine Valley, California, but when her team finds a gold engagement ring hanging nearby, it’s a terrifying, but undeniable fact.
With a twisted killer on her doorstep, Katie knows if she doesn’t act fast, she’ll find more women left out in the cold like broken dolls. Her team hit dead end after dead end, but only she can see the vital link between the victims: a connection with Katie herself.
Katie has spent years pushing traumatic memories of her years in the military far out of reach, but she must confront them now or more innocent women will die. But as the killer circles closer and closer to Katie, what if the only answer is to give him what he wants? There must be another way…
As day breaks over the fairground, Detective Katie Scott forces herself to take in another disturbing scene in front of her. A woman, the same age as her, found slumped in the carriage of the Ferris wheel, red lipstick dragged across her lips, her throat cut.
Katie doesn’t want to believe that the serial killer picking off women across the state has found their way to the small town of Pine Valley, California, but when her team finds a gold engagement ring hanging nearby, it’s a terrifying, but undeniable fact.
With a twisted killer on her doorstep, Katie knows if she doesn’t act fast, she’ll find more women left out in the cold like broken dolls. Her team hit dead end after dead end, but only she can see the vital link between the victims: a connection with Katie herself.
Katie has spent years pushing traumatic memories of her years in the military far out of reach, but she must confront them now or more innocent women will die. But as the killer circles closer and closer to Katie, what if the only answer is to give him what he wants? There must be another way…
302 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 5, 2021
2254 people are currently reading
606 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Chase
32 books585 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
Jennifer Chase is a multi award-winning and USA Today Best Selling crime fiction author, as well as a consulting criminologist. She has written the popular Detective Katie Scott Series and the Emily Stone Thriller Series.
Jennifer holds a bachelor degree in police forensics and a master's degree in criminology & criminal justice. These academic pursuits developed out of her curiosity about the criminal mind as well as from her own experience with a violent psychopath, providing Jennifer with deep personal investment in every story she tells. In addition, she holds certifications in serial crime and criminal profiling.
She is an affiliate member of the International Association of Forensic Criminologists, and member of the International Thriller Writers. www.authorjenniferchase.com
Jennifer Chase is a multi award-winning and USA Today Best Selling crime fiction author, as well as a consulting criminologist. She has written the popular Detective Katie Scott Series and the Emily Stone Thriller Series.
Jennifer holds a bachelor degree in police forensics and a master's degree in criminology & criminal justice. These academic pursuits developed out of her curiosity about the criminal mind as well as from her own experience with a violent psychopath, providing Jennifer with deep personal investment in every story she tells. In addition, she holds certifications in serial crime and criminal profiling.
She is an affiliate member of the International Association of Forensic Criminologists, and member of the International Thriller Writers. www.authorjenniferchase.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
June 19, 2022
My thanks to Bookoutre, Jennifer Chase and Netgalley. I noticed that this was book 6 of this series! This series gets consistently better. The first book I read was Katie, going full stream ahead and endangering everyone! Now! Katie and McGavin both still charge full steam ahead, but at least some thought is put into it. Slight thought, but!? I am enamored of these characters and where they live! Also, if I lived there? I'd have moved already!
August 6, 2021
Book Reviewed on www.whisperingstories.com
Jennifer Chase is back with the sixth instalment of her Detective Katie Scott series. This time Detective Scott is on the hunt for a serial killer that has been killing women and leaving them looking like broken dolls for others to find. The killer has struck in different parts of California and now they are in Detective Katie Scott and Deputy Sean McGaven’s territory – Pine Valley.
Helping them out is Special Agent Dane Campbell who has been following the killer and trying to work out who they are and bring them to justice. It isn’t long before Katie realises that there is a connection to her past and her military career and the plot starts to unravel for her.
Jennifer Chase is a pure master when it comes to writing exciting, edge of your seat thrillers. I have loved this series since the very beginning and look forward to meeting Katie again with each new book. I also know that the writing will be spot on and the cases gruesome and yet enthralling.
Pretty Broken Dolls had me second-guessing each new character that appeared, wondering what they had to do with the case and could they be the killer. With all the twists, turns, and red herrings thrown in I was left guessing for a long time and only clicked just before the reveal. I love a book that I can’t second guess.
As with all of the others in the series, this book is fast-paced and I flew through it in just two sittings. I did not want to put it down. I now can’t wait for book seven, bring it on!
Jennifer Chase is back with the sixth instalment of her Detective Katie Scott series. This time Detective Scott is on the hunt for a serial killer that has been killing women and leaving them looking like broken dolls for others to find. The killer has struck in different parts of California and now they are in Detective Katie Scott and Deputy Sean McGaven’s territory – Pine Valley.
Helping them out is Special Agent Dane Campbell who has been following the killer and trying to work out who they are and bring them to justice. It isn’t long before Katie realises that there is a connection to her past and her military career and the plot starts to unravel for her.
Jennifer Chase is a pure master when it comes to writing exciting, edge of your seat thrillers. I have loved this series since the very beginning and look forward to meeting Katie again with each new book. I also know that the writing will be spot on and the cases gruesome and yet enthralling.
Pretty Broken Dolls had me second-guessing each new character that appeared, wondering what they had to do with the case and could they be the killer. With all the twists, turns, and red herrings thrown in I was left guessing for a long time and only clicked just before the reveal. I love a book that I can’t second guess.
As with all of the others in the series, this book is fast-paced and I flew through it in just two sittings. I did not want to put it down. I now can’t wait for book seven, bring it on!
July 18, 2023
Jeanine had a habit of being late for things. She was known to love to party so missing an entire event just wasn't something she would ever do. Her friend had no idea what she would find in the small quiet neighborhood, but it diffidently wasn't Jeanine's dead body. Detective Katie Scott and her partner, Sean McGaven, only find out about Jeanine a year later. They have limited information...almost nothing is being shared by the local police or not surprisingly...the FBI. Katie, it seems, is becoming used to the previous investigators intentionally withholding evidence, but her team is unused to failure....so Katie and Sean are undeterred and keep searching until they discover a link that is far too close to home for their comfort. Even though this is the 6th book in the series, the story was very easy to follow. Some things were a bit vague. I don't know if this was because I started so far into the series or if it was a ploy on the author's part to advance the story without blowing up the ending too soon. At any rate I was soon hooked, and it became an imperative to see who was killing and leaving the victims displayed like "Pretty Broken Dolls".
September 21, 2021
⭐⭐⭐
I enjoyed this one overall. It held up well as a standalone. The plot kept me engaged throughout. For the most part, the characters were likable. And the ending was okay. However, I felt like the writing and dialogue had a clunky juvenile feel to it at times. As I wrote above, I enjoyed it but I don't think I will seek out the next book in this series. 🤷🏻♀️
**ARC Via NetGalley**
I enjoyed this one overall. It held up well as a standalone. The plot kept me engaged throughout. For the most part, the characters were likable. And the ending was okay. However, I felt like the writing and dialogue had a clunky juvenile feel to it at times. As I wrote above, I enjoyed it but I don't think I will seek out the next book in this series. 🤷🏻♀️
**ARC Via NetGalley**
August 9, 2021
Katie and McGaven are asked by FBI Agent Campbell to help solve an open serial killer case. Gruesome murdered women, left on display with layers of makeup - little leads, no connection - Campbell is desperate for help.
Katie takes it on - only to realize these murders are ritual, the annual date quickly approaching.
This is the first book in the series I have read - and I want more! Suspense up to the end, characters I enjoyed, and K9 units. Loved it!
Katie takes it on - only to realize these murders are ritual, the annual date quickly approaching.
This is the first book in the series I have read - and I want more! Suspense up to the end, characters I enjoyed, and K9 units. Loved it!
August 4, 2021
Pretty Broken Dolls is the sixth instalment in the Detective Katie Scott series set in Pine Valley, California, with a plot underpinned by dread and urgency. Sheriff Katie and Deputy Sean McGaven have been working their way through some cold cases with similar modus operandi when they are called to a murder scene where a woman has been tied to a Ferris wheel with her throat brutally cut and a ring hanging on a thread of ribbon in close proximity to the body. This all but confirms that the serial killer they believe is now prowling the state for new prey has landed in their neck of the woods. They have been assigned to work with Special Agent Dane Campbell of the California High Crimes Task Force as this is the third victim, and the first committed in Pine Valley, Sacramento, under Katie’s jurisdiction. Katie soon realises that all the victims are connected to the Military K9 Section and that her own life could also be in danger. Dane brings to their attention more cases including one in which the victim had been impaled on a metal fence behind her own home in the shade of the trees, her face applied with gaudy, heavy-handed make-up making her look almost clown-like in appearance.
The murderer appears to be committing one murder per year, so the team are in a race against time to stop the annual cull as the date is looming larger. If all of the victims were in the military could it be really Katie who is the target of the killer’s rage? This is a compelling and twisty read full of intrigue and unusual, explosive surprises. There's exciting drama, secrets, lies, betrayal and deceit that never lets up in this dark, palpably tense procedural and it moves at a rapid-fire pace in which you truly feel sympathy for Katie and her predicament when it comes to living with PTSD, especially when her significant other is away on a course in LA for 6 months, but it does lead to some fascinating character development as she pushes through it. There are plenty of twists, turns and red herrings spliced throughout providing an endless guessing game; one I failed pretty miserably at. I particularly enjoyed that it was told solely from Katie’s perspective as you get to live the investigation alongside her and the team. The killings are odd and gruesome, there is a tonne of action and you never feel like there's a dull moment making it a clever, entertaining read. Highly recommended.
The murderer appears to be committing one murder per year, so the team are in a race against time to stop the annual cull as the date is looming larger. If all of the victims were in the military could it be really Katie who is the target of the killer’s rage? This is a compelling and twisty read full of intrigue and unusual, explosive surprises. There's exciting drama, secrets, lies, betrayal and deceit that never lets up in this dark, palpably tense procedural and it moves at a rapid-fire pace in which you truly feel sympathy for Katie and her predicament when it comes to living with PTSD, especially when her significant other is away on a course in LA for 6 months, but it does lead to some fascinating character development as she pushes through it. There are plenty of twists, turns and red herrings spliced throughout providing an endless guessing game; one I failed pretty miserably at. I particularly enjoyed that it was told solely from Katie’s perspective as you get to live the investigation alongside her and the team. The killings are odd and gruesome, there is a tonne of action and you never feel like there's a dull moment making it a clever, entertaining read. Highly recommended.
September 29, 2021
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.In Pretty Broken Dolls, the reader is transported back to Pine Valley, California. In this installment, Detective Katie Scott and her partner Deputy Sean McGaven works assiduously to stop a serial before he claims his next victim.
Despite being the sixth book in the series Pretty Broken Dolls works well as a standalone. In this installment, Katie and her partner are handed a case courtesy of the FBI. This case in question involves the victims, all females, who were posed as broken dolls after being murdered. They would learn that the case had a connection to a murder in Pine Valley, which occurred one year ago. Katie had reservations about the case, which stemmed from her lack of trust in the agent who brought the case to their attention. However, when she discovered that she and the victims shared a military and K9 connection, she knew she has to find justice for them.
The story had me on the edge of my seat from its intense prologue to the end when the case was tied up. Danger and suspense permeated the pages of this riveting read. I was on pins and needles, knowing that Katie would likely be in the killer’s crosshairs because of her K9 connection. Katie can handle herself, but it didn’t stop me from fearing for her safety.
At first, it was difficult to determine the identity of the killer. Several potential suspects made it difficult to highlight the true villain. However, the deeper we got into the investigation, several things became clear, giving me an idea of the villain’s identity. I was on point with my suspicions.
Amidst all of this, Katie struggles with personal issues with PTSD, topping the list. However, she proved to the consummate professional, as she did not allow her personal issues impede her in solving the case.
Overall, Pretty Broken Dolls was a thrilling read. Suitable for fans of police procedurals featuring strong female characters and a small town setting.This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading
Despite being the sixth book in the series Pretty Broken Dolls works well as a standalone. In this installment, Katie and her partner are handed a case courtesy of the FBI. This case in question involves the victims, all females, who were posed as broken dolls after being murdered. They would learn that the case had a connection to a murder in Pine Valley, which occurred one year ago. Katie had reservations about the case, which stemmed from her lack of trust in the agent who brought the case to their attention. However, when she discovered that she and the victims shared a military and K9 connection, she knew she has to find justice for them.
The story had me on the edge of my seat from its intense prologue to the end when the case was tied up. Danger and suspense permeated the pages of this riveting read. I was on pins and needles, knowing that Katie would likely be in the killer’s crosshairs because of her K9 connection. Katie can handle herself, but it didn’t stop me from fearing for her safety.
At first, it was difficult to determine the identity of the killer. Several potential suspects made it difficult to highlight the true villain. However, the deeper we got into the investigation, several things became clear, giving me an idea of the villain’s identity. I was on point with my suspicions.
Amidst all of this, Katie struggles with personal issues with PTSD, topping the list. However, she proved to the consummate professional, as she did not allow her personal issues impede her in solving the case.
Overall, Pretty Broken Dolls was a thrilling read. Suitable for fans of police procedurals featuring strong female characters and a small town setting.This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading
August 4, 2021
Another brilliant book in the Detective Katie Scott series.
Katie and McGaven are asked to help with some cold cases which are related to a murder in their county.
Agent Campbell asks specifically for their help, but Katie thinks there’s something off about him, so doesn’t fully trust him.
They start to look into the cases and then another murder takes place. When the bodies are found it’s obvious the killer has issues as make up is smeared on their faces.
The victims seem to have a connection to the K9 training unit where Katie did her training, but they are finding it difficult to work out the motive.
McGaven is concerned that the killer will come after Katie due to her link with the K9 team, but she doesn’t agree.
There is a nail biting conclusion to the story and the identity of the killer was a complete surprise for me.
This is a gripping crime thriller that I really enjoyed. I can’t wait to see what’s next for Katie, McGaven and of course, Cisco.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
Katie and McGaven are asked to help with some cold cases which are related to a murder in their county.
Agent Campbell asks specifically for their help, but Katie thinks there’s something off about him, so doesn’t fully trust him.
They start to look into the cases and then another murder takes place. When the bodies are found it’s obvious the killer has issues as make up is smeared on their faces.
The victims seem to have a connection to the K9 training unit where Katie did her training, but they are finding it difficult to work out the motive.
McGaven is concerned that the killer will come after Katie due to her link with the K9 team, but she doesn’t agree.
There is a nail biting conclusion to the story and the identity of the killer was a complete surprise for me.
This is a gripping crime thriller that I really enjoyed. I can’t wait to see what’s next for Katie, McGaven and of course, Cisco.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
April 24, 2022
Ridiculous plot!
I liked the first part of this series okay. This one was based on former K9 female military veterans being murdered. The killer did it for revenge against their dead drug addicted mother who never had anything to do with the military. Just lame.
I liked the first part of this series okay. This one was based on former K9 female military veterans being murdered. The killer did it for revenge against their dead drug addicted mother who never had anything to do with the military. Just lame.
August 4, 2021
Detective Katie Scott and Deputy Sean McGaven are working on cold cases and when a recent murder ties to older cases they soon realize that they are on the trail of a serial killer. While the scenes are certainly gruesome, one thing is clear. They are posed in a certain way with very specific details. Beyond that, Katie begans to notice an eerie connection, all while dealing PTSD as a result of her years in the military.
Katie has easily proven herself to her boss and uncle Sheriff Scott, but now Special Agent Dane Campbell has asked her to dive deep into his investigation. Why does the FBI need her help when they have proven and dependable profilers? Although not quite comfortable working with Campbell, Katie and McGaven soldier on.
Meanwhile, Katie has her trusty former K9 partner Cisco, and he proves more than helpful while Katie digs deep to solve the murders. When Katie begins to see a deeper reason why they were pulled into the case, danger seems to trail very close at their heels. With unexpected twists and conflicting danger, Katie is determined to solve the murders, even though her PTSD is at war with the fact that her fiancé has had to leave town for extended training. Nonetheless, Katie's professionalism and wit shines through, and she faces constant danger with strength and determination.
Pretty Broken Dolls proves to be an excellent addition to a compelling series and I am more than eager to see what more is in store for Katie as she works hard at putting cold cases to rest.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Katie has easily proven herself to her boss and uncle Sheriff Scott, but now Special Agent Dane Campbell has asked her to dive deep into his investigation. Why does the FBI need her help when they have proven and dependable profilers? Although not quite comfortable working with Campbell, Katie and McGaven soldier on.
Meanwhile, Katie has her trusty former K9 partner Cisco, and he proves more than helpful while Katie digs deep to solve the murders. When Katie begins to see a deeper reason why they were pulled into the case, danger seems to trail very close at their heels. With unexpected twists and conflicting danger, Katie is determined to solve the murders, even though her PTSD is at war with the fact that her fiancé has had to leave town for extended training. Nonetheless, Katie's professionalism and wit shines through, and she faces constant danger with strength and determination.
Pretty Broken Dolls proves to be an excellent addition to a compelling series and I am more than eager to see what more is in store for Katie as she works hard at putting cold cases to rest.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
June 19, 2022
Off late I found myself reading a lot of serial books. All have one thing in common a female badass detective. Yet most of them are unique and stand out in the thing that drives them. Katie Scott maybe just one more detective in the many books I read but she sure is SPECIAL. What sets her apart is her K9 companion & skills! This book showcases her K9 origins and I found that particularly endearing. Offcourse there were the macabre murders happing all around. The plot was SUPERB. The book started with a case partially solved and I thought there would be a twist to it at the end. The main case was dark but extremely riveting. That prologue was a masterful one and I don't think anyone would abandon the book after reading such a creepy, dark introduction. I have some questions that unfortunately were unanswered and the end felt too quick. I definitely would have loved to know more about Jeanine's friend and the relationship she shared with her colleague Serrano. Small details of the victims private lives are what make them seem authentic! But don't get me wrong I still LOVED the book and can't wait for the next one!
Thank you, NetGalley, Bookouture and Jennifer Chase for the arc!
Thank you, NetGalley, Bookouture and Jennifer Chase for the arc!
August 1, 2021
By now, it’s pretty clear that I am a big fan of this series and Jennifer Chase’s writing in general, so I’m going to approach this review from that point of view. That being said, this was another winner in the Katie Scott series, which really just keeps revealing more and more about Katie and the relationships in her life.
The mystery itself was really intriguing. There was so little to work with, and the clues were very strategically dropped throughout that it was really interesting to see how Katie and McGaven had to work through everything to get to the bottom of things. Plus, there was a big question mark in the background of the whole thing - I don’t want to give too us away, but the way in which they get the cases is weird and turns weirder. I liked that element.
I also liked how it resolved. I still had some questions, but that’s how it is with cold cases - you’re never gong to know every answer in the end after so many years. Some things are just left in the void.
I especially loved this book for the development of some of the characters. I feel like we really got to see a lot of McGaven’s personality come out in this one and we saw a lot of him and Katie bonding and really becoming partners. They just really seemed to click in this one. Also, there’s something (again, I don’t want to give it away) which really shows how special the relationship between Katie and Chad is. That added a really special layer too.
Overall, you really need to be reading the Katie Scott series. It’s a great character-driven mystery series and it just keeps getting better and better!
The mystery itself was really intriguing. There was so little to work with, and the clues were very strategically dropped throughout that it was really interesting to see how Katie and McGaven had to work through everything to get to the bottom of things. Plus, there was a big question mark in the background of the whole thing - I don’t want to give too us away, but the way in which they get the cases is weird and turns weirder. I liked that element.
I also liked how it resolved. I still had some questions, but that’s how it is with cold cases - you’re never gong to know every answer in the end after so many years. Some things are just left in the void.
I especially loved this book for the development of some of the characters. I feel like we really got to see a lot of McGaven’s personality come out in this one and we saw a lot of him and Katie bonding and really becoming partners. They just really seemed to click in this one. Also, there’s something (again, I don’t want to give it away) which really shows how special the relationship between Katie and Chad is. That added a really special layer too.
Overall, you really need to be reading the Katie Scott series. It’s a great character-driven mystery series and it just keeps getting better and better!
January 30, 2023
Dreadful. I've read all of the books in the series so far and this one is by far the worst. The writing is terrible, the plotline is so full of holes, the character relationships are awful. I do not have a good word to say about this book.
What bothers me most is how rushed the ending was, they had absolutely no idea who it was or why they were doing it and then I turn the page and all hell breaks loose and suddenly Katie knew everything? It's so obvious? It's absolutely not, it doesn't make sense and this just feels like Jennifer is trying to put a square peg in a round hole just so she can get the story finished. One last thing, the final 2 pages? Genuinely made me cringe.
I would give this half a star at best, the only thing that made me read it so fast was I thought this might finally be the book we get rid of Chad! So much hope.
What bothers me most is how rushed the ending was, they had absolutely no idea who it was or why they were doing it and then I turn the page and all hell breaks loose and suddenly Katie knew everything? It's so obvious? It's absolutely not, it doesn't make sense and this just feels like Jennifer is trying to put a square peg in a round hole just so she can get the story finished. One last thing, the final 2 pages? Genuinely made me cringe.
I would give this half a star at best, the only thing that made me read it so fast was I thought this might finally be the book we get rid of Chad! So much hope.
September 10, 2024
The killer caught her - she didn't catch the killer - read on KU
I really hate it when authors have the detective get kidnapped by the killer in order to solve the case. Even though that's not exactly what happens here, it's close enough. The killer wasn't even someone she suspected. I absolutely don't know why authors do this so often because readers don't like it.
While Ms. Chase may have a forensic background, she misses the mark in other areas. No one has to clone your phone to spoof caller ID.
I also don't understand why she was so overly suspicious of the FBI agent that brought her the case.
They knew most of the book the murders had something to do with the military's K9 program, but they barely investigated that angle.
And how many times is Katie going to slide into the ground?
I really hate it when authors have the detective get kidnapped by the killer in order to solve the case. Even though that's not exactly what happens here, it's close enough. The killer wasn't even someone she suspected. I absolutely don't know why authors do this so often because readers don't like it.
While Ms. Chase may have a forensic background, she misses the mark in other areas. No one has to clone your phone to spoof caller ID.
I also don't understand why she was so overly suspicious of the FBI agent that brought her the case.
They knew most of the book the murders had something to do with the military's K9 program, but they barely investigated that angle.
And how many times is Katie going to slide into the ground?
November 7, 2022
Definitely my least favorite in this series so far. I can't say I really understood the motivations of the killer (or other characters who should have known things they did not figure out). And can Chad just please go away? He is a big lump of nothingness, there is no basis for Katie to be so in love with him. She is such a dynamic (if often thoughtless) character and would be much better off with John.
Is it terrible to say I wished that Chad and/or Lizzie had died to make way for a Katie/John pairing in future installments?
Is it terrible to say I wished that Chad and/or Lizzie had died to make way for a Katie/John pairing in future installments?
May 29, 2024
I hate giving up on a series but
I am 6 books into this series and Katie Scott has still NOT actually solved a single case. I keep reading thinking she will get the next one, but it’s the bad guys (or girls) trying to kill her that solves the case in the end of each book so far. I solved this one way before the ending and I think this is where I part ways with Katie Scott. I’m just too annoyed by her to keep reading.
I am 6 books into this series and Katie Scott has still NOT actually solved a single case. I keep reading thinking she will get the next one, but it’s the bad guys (or girls) trying to kill her that solves the case in the end of each book so far. I solved this one way before the ending and I think this is where I part ways with Katie Scott. I’m just too annoyed by her to keep reading.
November 18, 2021
Very good book, but the ending was disappointing...
August 13, 2021
Starting to be the same thing over and over again.
August 6, 2021
Pretty Broken Dolls by Jennifer Chase
Detective Katie Scott #6
Katie solves another cold case and is assigned a new one that if solved might unearth a serial killer and in so doing save future lives. This is a pretty straightforward police procedural with minimal personal information shared about Katie, her fiancé, and her team.
What I liked:
* Katie: ex-military K-9 veteran, cold case police detective, engaged, good friend, good leader, puzzle solver, works for her uncle the sheriff, works well with her team, loves her K-9 partner, suffers from PTSD.
* Cisco: Her black German Shepherd K-9 partner who has been with her to war and was discharged into her arms. He’s there for her no matter what.
* Chad: Katie’s fiancé, fireman, diver, soon to become a fire investigator. Didn’t see much of him but he seems to be a good fit with Katie.
* Deputy Sean McGaven: Katie’s work partner, calm, inquisitive, strong, positive, personable, a great work partner, and in a relationship with one of Katie’s friends.
* Katie’s uncle: loving, kind, strong, equal-handed, professional, caring, plays no favorites, would like to get to know him better…perhaps in a future book.
* The way the case unfolds as a true police procedural with hints, clues, red herrings, threats, and all the rest.
* The way Katie feels about this case and how it may/may not relate to her
* Wanting to see the psycho sicko caught and put away
What I didn’t like:
* What and whom I was meant not to like
* Thinking about how the same experience in two people’s lives can create such different outcomes…not a dislike but it did make me wish some experiences could be avoided altogether and wonder if some people are broken before the incident occurs.
Did I enjoy this book? Yes
Would I read more in this series? Yes
Do you need to read previous books first? Probably not, but it would help a lot ;)
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC – This is my honest review.
4-5 Stars
Detective Katie Scott #6
Katie solves another cold case and is assigned a new one that if solved might unearth a serial killer and in so doing save future lives. This is a pretty straightforward police procedural with minimal personal information shared about Katie, her fiancé, and her team.
What I liked:
* Katie: ex-military K-9 veteran, cold case police detective, engaged, good friend, good leader, puzzle solver, works for her uncle the sheriff, works well with her team, loves her K-9 partner, suffers from PTSD.
* Cisco: Her black German Shepherd K-9 partner who has been with her to war and was discharged into her arms. He’s there for her no matter what.
* Chad: Katie’s fiancé, fireman, diver, soon to become a fire investigator. Didn’t see much of him but he seems to be a good fit with Katie.
* Deputy Sean McGaven: Katie’s work partner, calm, inquisitive, strong, positive, personable, a great work partner, and in a relationship with one of Katie’s friends.
* Katie’s uncle: loving, kind, strong, equal-handed, professional, caring, plays no favorites, would like to get to know him better…perhaps in a future book.
* The way the case unfolds as a true police procedural with hints, clues, red herrings, threats, and all the rest.
* The way Katie feels about this case and how it may/may not relate to her
* Wanting to see the psycho sicko caught and put away
What I didn’t like:
* What and whom I was meant not to like
* Thinking about how the same experience in two people’s lives can create such different outcomes…not a dislike but it did make me wish some experiences could be avoided altogether and wonder if some people are broken before the incident occurs.
Did I enjoy this book? Yes
Would I read more in this series? Yes
Do you need to read previous books first? Probably not, but it would help a lot ;)
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC – This is my honest review.
4-5 Stars
July 27, 2021
I would like to thank Netgalley and Bookouture for an advance copy of Pretty Broken Dolls, the sixth novel to feature Detective Katie Scott of the Pine Valley, California Sheriff’s Office.
Katie is called to a murder scene where a woman has been daubed with garish make up, tied to a Ferris wheel and had her throat cut. A ring hanging on a ribbon near her body confirms that California’s newest serial killer has reached Pine Valley. Investigating this and the previous murders Katie discovers that they have all worked in the military like her. Is she the next victim?
I thoroughly enjoyed Pretty Broken Dolls, which, like the other novels in the series, offers thrills, spills and plenty of twists and turns. The novel is told from Katie’s point of view so the reader gets to live the investigation with her. I must admit that I felt she was a bit slow on the uptake in this one, as, unusually, I guessed a few key elements before her. Not that it really mattered as she always gets there and there are still plenty of developments and twists I didn’t get. I also thought that the plot is clever, as linking it to Katie’s past gives the reader a sense of dread and urgency. Obviously the reader could ask questions about the likelihood of certain aspects of the plot, but it’s entertainment, good entertainment at that, so who cares?
Katie is still struggling with her PTSD, perhaps exacerbated by her fiancé disappearing to Los Angeles for a 6 month course, but she has coping mechanisms that seem to work. I like Katie and she’s a pleasure to spend time with.
Pretty Broken Dolls is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
Katie is called to a murder scene where a woman has been daubed with garish make up, tied to a Ferris wheel and had her throat cut. A ring hanging on a ribbon near her body confirms that California’s newest serial killer has reached Pine Valley. Investigating this and the previous murders Katie discovers that they have all worked in the military like her. Is she the next victim?
I thoroughly enjoyed Pretty Broken Dolls, which, like the other novels in the series, offers thrills, spills and plenty of twists and turns. The novel is told from Katie’s point of view so the reader gets to live the investigation with her. I must admit that I felt she was a bit slow on the uptake in this one, as, unusually, I guessed a few key elements before her. Not that it really mattered as she always gets there and there are still plenty of developments and twists I didn’t get. I also thought that the plot is clever, as linking it to Katie’s past gives the reader a sense of dread and urgency. Obviously the reader could ask questions about the likelihood of certain aspects of the plot, but it’s entertainment, good entertainment at that, so who cares?
Katie is still struggling with her PTSD, perhaps exacerbated by her fiancé disappearing to Los Angeles for a 6 month course, but she has coping mechanisms that seem to work. I like Katie and she’s a pleasure to spend time with.
Pretty Broken Dolls is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
August 10, 2021
'Pretty Broken Dolls' by Jennifer Chase is a 6th book of the Katie Scott Series. I had fallen in love with Katie Scott after reading the 5th book and when the 6th one was released, I wanted to get a glimpse into Katie's life again.
In this story, Katie and her partner McGavin work on cold cases and this time she gets pulled in to one case that has happened recently in their small town of Pine valley. They start working on a cold case that also has a link to the present one and they realise that a serial killer who has been targeting women across the state has now killed a woman in Pine Valley too.
Katie along with Mc Gavin start investigating the earlier cases and also realise so many common points between the cases. They feel they are getting hold of clues but they end up at dead ends. Along with the events of the cases Katie also has an eerie sense of being followed and she is no more sure of whom to believe on that case. This case is very different from the earlier one with the pace and the twists in the stories, a constant sense of anticipation of what will happen next and also a nagging feel of who could be involved in the killings.
The fast pace of the story, the personal events in Katie's life, and simultaneous work on cold case as well as a current case all these make it a very interesting story. This story kept me on my edge and the thrill and mystery make it worthwhile for all lover of thriller stories.
I am looking forward to the next adventure of Katie Scott.
I thank bookouture, Netgalley and the author for providing me a review copy on my request.
In this story, Katie and her partner McGavin work on cold cases and this time she gets pulled in to one case that has happened recently in their small town of Pine valley. They start working on a cold case that also has a link to the present one and they realise that a serial killer who has been targeting women across the state has now killed a woman in Pine Valley too.
Katie along with Mc Gavin start investigating the earlier cases and also realise so many common points between the cases. They feel they are getting hold of clues but they end up at dead ends. Along with the events of the cases Katie also has an eerie sense of being followed and she is no more sure of whom to believe on that case. This case is very different from the earlier one with the pace and the twists in the stories, a constant sense of anticipation of what will happen next and also a nagging feel of who could be involved in the killings.
The fast pace of the story, the personal events in Katie's life, and simultaneous work on cold case as well as a current case all these make it a very interesting story. This story kept me on my edge and the thrill and mystery make it worthwhile for all lover of thriller stories.
I am looking forward to the next adventure of Katie Scott.
I thank bookouture, Netgalley and the author for providing me a review copy on my request.
August 5, 2021
When I think about a doll, I imagine a beautiful creature with lovely clothes and make up, but when I see a thriller with the word ‘dolls’ in the title, my stomach already does some somersaults, because often it means none of the beauty remains…
I really enjoy the characters the author created to form the police team. Sheriff Uncle Wayne is of course always looking out for his niece, but at work, she is an employee, just like the other officers. No special treatment there which I applaud because it must be very difficult. Katie is determined and no situations is too dangerous for her. I do sometimes like to slap her, when she goes out alone in the woods. In reality she is not alone. Her German shepherd Cisco is always around, but he cannot always save her. Gav is a great personality too and the perfect partner for Katie. Dr Dean is maybe a bit eccentric, but he is a great doctor and then there is John. He is a bit of a mystery to me and I like it. Somehow I don’t always trust him, but on the other hand I really like him a lot.
Katie and her partners Gav and Cisco have their work cut out for them once again. There is only one way for them though: straight to the heart of the problem to put a stop to it for once and for all.
Fast paced, action and suspense filled and a great police team working against the clock: tick tock… 5 stars
Thank you, Jennifer Chase and Bookouture
I really enjoy the characters the author created to form the police team. Sheriff Uncle Wayne is of course always looking out for his niece, but at work, she is an employee, just like the other officers. No special treatment there which I applaud because it must be very difficult. Katie is determined and no situations is too dangerous for her. I do sometimes like to slap her, when she goes out alone in the woods. In reality she is not alone. Her German shepherd Cisco is always around, but he cannot always save her. Gav is a great personality too and the perfect partner for Katie. Dr Dean is maybe a bit eccentric, but he is a great doctor and then there is John. He is a bit of a mystery to me and I like it. Somehow I don’t always trust him, but on the other hand I really like him a lot.
Katie and her partners Gav and Cisco have their work cut out for them once again. There is only one way for them though: straight to the heart of the problem to put a stop to it for once and for all.
Fast paced, action and suspense filled and a great police team working against the clock: tick tock… 5 stars
Thank you, Jennifer Chase and Bookouture
August 7, 2021
Pretty Broken Dolls is the sixth instalment in Jennifer Chases Detective Katie Scott series set in Pine Valley, California. Having followed this compelling series from the start I was keen to jump straight in and read this next superb instalment. The book starts with a chilling prologue that immediately had me hooked, then jumps to a time period one year later.
This is a compelling read full of intrigue and explosive surprises. Drama, secrets, lies, betrayal and deceit never wane in this dark, tense procedural and it moves with lightning speed. Katie is living with PTSD as a result of her years in the military and her partner is away on a course in Los Angeles for 6 months but she has ways of coping that seem to work for her. There are twists etched throughout, facilitating a great guessing session for the reader. Telling the story solely from Katie’s perspective was a good move as I got to live in the pockets of Katie and the rest of the investigation team. There is action aplenty I was exhausted by the time I had reached the fabulous conclusion!
Disclosure: Thank you to Bookouture for providing a digital ARC of Pretty Broken Dolls by Jennifer Chase via Netgalley for review. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
This is a compelling read full of intrigue and explosive surprises. Drama, secrets, lies, betrayal and deceit never wane in this dark, tense procedural and it moves with lightning speed. Katie is living with PTSD as a result of her years in the military and her partner is away on a course in Los Angeles for 6 months but she has ways of coping that seem to work for her. There are twists etched throughout, facilitating a great guessing session for the reader. Telling the story solely from Katie’s perspective was a good move as I got to live in the pockets of Katie and the rest of the investigation team. There is action aplenty I was exhausted by the time I had reached the fabulous conclusion!
Disclosure: Thank you to Bookouture for providing a digital ARC of Pretty Broken Dolls by Jennifer Chase via Netgalley for review. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
May 5, 2023
Once again, Jennifer Chase has blown me away. The sixth installment of the Detective Katie Scott series is chillingly intense, as Katie and Gav work alongside a dodgy FBI agent to solve a spate of murders across California.
Four female victims, all made up to resemble broken dolls, each with a slit throat and a piece of jewellery tied up nearby. Every one has a strong and headfast personality and served as a K9 handler in the Army... Which is extremely bad news for Katie, given her own familiar experiences.
Nothing seems to sit right in this investigation as Katie soon concludes. The intimidating presence of Special Agent Campbell grates on her nerves, suspicious of his ulterior motives. When Katie is conventionally placed as the next potential target, these instincts could prove to be correct. Someone wants Katie to back off from the investigation, and their game has only just started...
It's fantastic to see Gav's hard work and dedication to the job being recognised. Now a Detective, this duo are soaring to new heights with their unstoppable force. Can't wait to see how they'll figure out the next cold case as equals!
🌟🌟🌟🌟✨/5
Four female victims, all made up to resemble broken dolls, each with a slit throat and a piece of jewellery tied up nearby. Every one has a strong and headfast personality and served as a K9 handler in the Army... Which is extremely bad news for Katie, given her own familiar experiences.
Nothing seems to sit right in this investigation as Katie soon concludes. The intimidating presence of Special Agent Campbell grates on her nerves, suspicious of his ulterior motives. When Katie is conventionally placed as the next potential target, these instincts could prove to be correct. Someone wants Katie to back off from the investigation, and their game has only just started...
It's fantastic to see Gav's hard work and dedication to the job being recognised. Now a Detective, this duo are soaring to new heights with their unstoppable force. Can't wait to see how they'll figure out the next cold case as equals!
🌟🌟🌟🌟✨/5
September 26, 2021
Thank you Netgalley and Bookouture for the chance to read Pretty broken dolls by Jennifer Chase (bk 6 in the Detective Katie Scott series) . I love this series and highly recommend it! At the beginning of the series she is dealing with PTSD and unsure of her new job as a detective working on cold cases. With the help of her partner Deputy Sean McGaven, her K-9 Cisco and a unique intuition of her own, she has become successful in solving the cases although she has a tendency to rush into situations often without thinking of the consequences.
As Katie finishes one case, another one is about to start and this time her cold case ends up hitting a bit close to home as each of the women end up having a military k-9 connection.
What I love about this series is Katie. The author has written her to be tough yet vulnerable at times. While her PTSD still shows through, and while it still hampers her sometimes she continues to do her job. Her love of her dog Cisco, and how well they work together is a very large part of the series but I love how she has become to rely on her human partner as well. Her now fiancé, Chad is in and out of the books, and they seem to have a great relationship but in this book we saw very little of Chad.
While each book can be read as a stand alone, I would totally recommend reading the series!!!!
As Katie finishes one case, another one is about to start and this time her cold case ends up hitting a bit close to home as each of the women end up having a military k-9 connection.
What I love about this series is Katie. The author has written her to be tough yet vulnerable at times. While her PTSD still shows through, and while it still hampers her sometimes she continues to do her job. Her love of her dog Cisco, and how well they work together is a very large part of the series but I love how she has become to rely on her human partner as well. Her now fiancé, Chad is in and out of the books, and they seem to have a great relationship but in this book we saw very little of Chad.
While each book can be read as a stand alone, I would totally recommend reading the series!!!!
September 15, 2021
This was an extremely twisted case. I’m not sure I understand the Chad aspect and the abrupt exit and re-entrance. It was as if the author didn’t want to deal with that relationship in this book.
Regardless of that I enjoyed the story. It was twisted and it finally clicked for me. I really enjoy Detective Katie Scott, but she sure does get beat up a lot. I absolutely love her partner McGaven. He is brilliant side kick! And I gotta say I have a thing for him & John. Just saying.
Regardless of that I enjoyed the story. It was twisted and it finally clicked for me. I really enjoy Detective Katie Scott, but she sure does get beat up a lot. I absolutely love her partner McGaven. He is brilliant side kick! And I gotta say I have a thing for him & John. Just saying.
November 15, 2021
well written and intriguing, this one is an absolute page turner. A very gripping read.
December 26, 2021
A good police procedural.
April 7, 2023
Another twisty case with Katie and the crew I enjoyed this one although the Chad aspect was kinda strange still an enjoyable read!!
February 15, 2024
This was the best in the series by far. There was so much suspense and I loved all the little plot twists along the way. This one definitely had me nervous about Katie.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews