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Nikki Hunt #5

The Trapped Ones

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She raced across the woods. Cold wind hit her face, and her heart pounded so fast she could almost feel the panic rushing through her veins. She knocked on the door knowing she didn’t have much time. Fear gripped her. “Please, help,” she whispered.

Rushing to the scene of a homicide at a farmhouse surrounded by thick, dark woodland, Special Agent Nikki Hunt is shocked to find four victims. A mother and father have been stabbed, their son, Bryce, is fighting for his life, and a young woman’s body is lying near the front door, her wrists bound with heart-shaped bunting. Nikki has never seen such a complex scene, but despite recovering from her own painful loss, she will do whatever it takes to bring this killer to justice.

Nikki soon identifies the woman as missing student Jessica Chandler and finds Bryce’s initials woven into the jumper she wore the night she died. It seems like they were a couple, and that the Webers were a happy family. So who would want them dead?

The murders have all the hallmarks of a serial killer: all the evidence suggests the murderer was watching them, turned the security cameras off as they entered and fled the scene from the front door. But then Jessica’s friends tell Nikki she was uncomfortable around Bryce, and when two of Bryce’s friends go missing along Stillwater river, and the girlfriend is found, she claims her boyfriend tried to kill her.

Are Bryce and his friends hiding a dark side? Nikki knows she must dig deeper to find out their secrets, but can she uncover the truth before the killer takes another life?

266 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 28, 2022

2029 people are currently reading
1101 people want to read

About the author

Stacy Green

45 books1,233 followers
Stacy Green is the author of the Lucy Kendall thriller series and the Delta Crossroads mystery trilogy. ALL GOOD DEEDS (Lucy Kendall #1) won a bronze medal for mystery and thriller at the 2015 IPPY Awards. TIN GOD (Delta Crossroads #1) was runner-up for best mystery/thriller at the 2013 Kindle Book Awards.

Stacy has a love of thrillers and crime fiction, and she is always looking for the next dark and twisted novel to enjoy. She started her career in journalism before becoming a stay at home mother and rediscovering her love of writing. She lives in Iowa with her husband and daughter and their three spoiled fur babies.

She is currently working on a new crime fiction series and is represented by Italia Gandolfo of Gandolfo, Helin and Fountain Literary Management for literary and dramatic rights.

Website: stacygreenauthor.com
Facebook www.Facebook.com/StacyGreenAuthor
Twitter: @StacyGreen26

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5 stars
1,544 (47%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 190 reviews
Profile Image for Maureen .
1,727 reviews7,547 followers
January 12, 2026
The young woman runs through the woods, towards the lights of the farmhouse, her heart pounding, panic gripping her every move. She races as if her life depends on it - it does!

Special Agent Nikki Hunt is called to a farmhouse, to the horrifying scene of four victims - the Weber family - mother (Joan) and father (Dave) have been stabbed, their son Bryce left in a critical condition, and the body of a young woman, hands bound, is lying dead near the front door.

The young woman turns out to be missing student Jessica Chandler, but what was she doing at the Weber’s, why were her hands bound, and who on earth has carried out this terrible attack?

One thing’s for sure, Agent Hunt lives up to her name, and pursues many trails and deceitful characters to find the perpetrator.

Filled with intrigue and suspense, and some surprising twists, this is a fast paced crime thriller - and I never could have guessed the outcome! Recommended.

*My thanks to Bookouture for an ARC. I have given an honest unbiased review in exchange *
Profile Image for Pat.
2,310 reviews505 followers
April 5, 2022
This is the fifth book in the Nikki Hunt series. Nikki is a Special Agent with the FBI in Minnesota. She has been called to a crime scene in Stillwater by Sheriff Kent Miller with whom she has worked before. This scene is quite shocking and Miller knows he needs all the help he can get. Joan and Dave Weber have been brutally murdered. Their son, Bryce, a college senior and swimming champion, has been left for dead and there is a young woman unrelated to the family who looks like she has fallen to her death from the upper floor balcony and has her hands tied.

The scene does not make much sense. The dead girl is eventually identified as Jessica Chandler who had been missing for a few days. What was she doing at the Weber house? Why were her hands tied? Bryce is no help as he is in a medically induced coma.

This is a very convoluted story. At first they think Jessica was Bryce’s girlfriend but after speaking to her friends a different story starts to emerge - which makes it even stranger that she at the Weber house. Potential suspect names are bandied about but no one can come up with a plausible scenario for what happened at the house.

Bit by bit various secrets are exposed and the Weber family is not looking so innocent anymore! Then there is the strange attitude of Bryce’s friend Gavin. Could he have something to do with the murders? He certainly seems shifty enough. But when Gavin and his girlfriend, Ella, also disappear all bets are suddenly off. The actual truth is shocking but not entirely surprising.

This story illustrates the dangers of pushing young men to perform beyond their comfort level and of protecting them from the consequences of appalling behaviour leading to a sense of undeserved entitlement. Many lives were ruined in the story. The pace was jaunty and the ending very tense indeed. This a very enjoyable series and this particular book was a great read. Many thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the much appreciated arc which I reviewed voluntarily and honestly.
Profile Image for Brenda.
5,122 reviews3,026 followers
April 28, 2022
When Special Agent Nikki Hunt was called to the Weber’s home, which was surrounded by the nearby woods, her shock at the four people inside, three of whom were dead and one fighting for life, Nikki had no idea what she was confronting. Was it a serial killer? Was it a break and enter gone wrong? As Nikki worked with her partner, Liam, to uncover the truth, there were many theories, but none which quite made sense. Bryce Weber was in an induced coma. He was a top swimmer at the university and as she and Liam questioned his friends, they could see an unnerving culture was in the background. Jessica Chandler was the young woman killed, and she’d been missing before the murders were discovered. The situation was puzzling – with little to go on, could Nikki and her team discover the killer before another person was killed?

The Trapped Ones is the 5th in the Nikki Hunt series by Stacy Green and wow! This one was a doozy! I had no idea who the perpetrator was – I had guesses but was way off base. When the reveal came, I was shocked! Nikki Hunt is an exceptional character, and her daughter, six-year-old Lacey, is cute while her partner Rory is very supportive. I’m thoroughly enjoying this series (and recommend it being read in order) and am looking forward to the next one already. Highly recommended.

With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Debra .
3,293 reviews36.5k followers
May 3, 2022
“Please, help,” she whispered.

Special Agent Nikki Hunt is called to a scene of a murder at a farmhouse near the woods. Inside are four victims. One is clinging to life. The others are dead. A man and woman have been stabbed, while their son, Bryce fights for his life. A young woman has been bound and thrown over the landing. Nikki has seen a lot in her time, but this crime scene throws her a little. She is still raw and dealing from PTSD from almost being drowned in another book.

Soon, this case takes on a life of its own, and there are those with dark, devious, and sinister secrets.

This was another enticing and gripping installment in the Nikki Hunt series. Although we do learn of some struggles Nikki is facing in her personal life, the emphasis is more on the investigation in this book and less on Nikki's private life. I'm hoping to see a little more of her work/life balance in the next book!

Stacy Green never disappoints, and I am already looking forward to the next book in the series!!! This series is still in the beginning phases, so it is an easy one to jump into. I suggest starting at the beginning, you will not be disappointed!


Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.

Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
Profile Image for Jonetta.
2,617 reviews1,339 followers
January 15, 2026
the setup…
FBI Special Agent Nikki Hunt and her team are called to a gruesome scene at the Weber family’s Stillwater farmhouse. Dave and Joan were brutally stabbed to death, their son Bryce clinging to life and an unknown female dead from an apparent fall from the second floor into the foyer. She’s later identified as Jessica Chandler and it’s baffling as to why she was even there. Bryce is a star on the University of Minnesota’s swim team and a member of a fraternity, living in the frat house. Finding out who might want these people dead and why feels like an insurmountable challenge.

the heart of the story…
The name of the game seems to be subterfuge and misdirection. The biggest dilemma was figuring out who to trust among the host of people close to Bryce and his connection to Jessica. But he’s in a coma, unable to speak. The frat brothers, his roommates and best friend feel unreliable. Even Jessica’s recent behavior is complicated. And who would want his parents dead?

the narration…
Kate Handford is a master storyteller here and adeptly managed a host of distinctive characters. I enjoy her being the voice of the series.

the bottom line…
It’s all about the procedurals as the team was taxed to untangle this puzzling murder. I enjoyed the journey but was disappointed at how it ended, the final solution feeling rushed, told instead of playing out. Otherwise, I was captivated by the story, especially as Nikki’s personal life seems to have stabilized.

Posted on Blue Mood Café
Profile Image for Sue.
1,420 reviews5 followers
March 31, 2022
THE TRAPPED ONES is the fifth book in the Nikki Hunt series, a gripping crime thriller set in Stillwater, Minnesota by best-selling author Stacy Green. This is my review of The Trapped Ones.

The books in the Nikki Hunt Series include:
The Girls in The Snow (Book 1)
One Perfect Grave (Book 2)
Lost Angels (Book 3)
The Girl in The Ground (Book 4)
The Trapped Ones (Book 5)

While this book can be read as a standalone, as the author does a great job in supplying background information, I would recommend you read the series in order to get a better appreciation of the growth of the characters. It is such a great series, so sit back and enjoy!

FBI Special Agent and criminal profiler Nikki Hunt heads up the Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU) that deals with crimes in the jurisdictions of Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin. Tyler, Nikki’s ex-husband had been murdered at the hands of a serial killer Nikki had been chasing. Tyler’s parents had decided to sue for custody of their 6-year-old daughter, Lacey, as Nikki’s job was too dangerous and provided limited time with her daughter. Nikki still owned her house in St Paul, but with her boyfriend Rory at her side, Nikki and her daughter spent most of their time in Stillwater, with Rory’s family.

Jessica Chandler raced through the woods, with a wound to her head, to a house where she cried for help.

Nikki gets a call about a triple homicide, with one survivor in bad shape, requesting her team’s assistance. Nikki and her partner, Liam, on the major crime unit and a solid profiler, arrive at the scene, a farmhouse surrounded by woods.

They found four victims-mother, (Joan) father, (Dave) who had been stabbed and their son, Bryce Weber (a survivor, fighting for his life) and a young woman who had fallen from the upstairs balcony. Nikki soon identifies the woman as missing student from university, Jessica Chandler and Bryce’s girlfriend. The victims were discovered by Vic Weber, the father’s brother.

Nikki has never seen such a complex scene, but despite recovering from her own painful loss, she will do whatever it takes to bring this killer to justice.

But who would want this family dead?

The evidence suggests the murderer was watching them, turned the security cameras off as they entered and fled the scene from the front door. Jessica’s friends tell Nikki she was scared of Bryce.

Nikki must dig deeper to uncover the truth before the killer takes another life.

The Trapped Ones is a fast-paced crime thriller with a strong protagonist and engaging characters. Lots of twists and turns with a satisfying conclusion. Great series that will appeal to a wide audience. Highly recommended.

Many thanks to the author, Bookouture and Net Galley for my digital copy.
Profile Image for Jean.
892 reviews19 followers
April 4, 2022
Stacy Green has written her fifth Nikki Hunt book already! Time flies when you’re having fun, and time really flew as I read The Trapped Ones! FBI Agent Nikki Hunt is called to the scene of a triple murder by Washington County sheriff Kent Miller. The deceased are the residents, who are identified as the parents of a seriously injured college-aged male victim. Also dead is a college-aged female. It is uncertain what relationship she is to anyone in the home, although we see someone in the prologue whom we assume to be her. She appears to be fleeing someone, and she may be injured. Has she run into danger instead of finding safety? The crime scene is complex. Was this a random killing? It doesn’t look like robbery. The press will scream “serial murderer,” but Nikki isn’t sure that’s what this is either.

Nikki, her partner Liam, and their technician Courtney have an abundance of evidence to sort through. The survivor, Bryce Weber, is in a medically induced coma. He’s a star swimmer at the University of Minnesota and a member of a fraternity, so Nikki and Liam begin their quest for answers at the frat house. Naturally, they also delve into the young woman, Jessica’s life, talk to her college friends and her family, as well as Weber family. What they find seems to raise more questions and more possibilities.

With a Minneapolis detective assisting with her first murder investigation, Nikki uncovers some disturbing information about the victim and one of his friends, putting them at the top of the list. But does everything fit? As is often the case, Nikki is spending so much time and energy working that she has little time to spend with her young daughter. Now, her late ex-husband’s parents are taking her to court for custody of Lacey. She’s scared to death that she will lose her.

When a sudden development causes Nikki to view the case from a different perspective, the situation becomes critical. Can you say TWIST? I should have had an inkling, but I was so engrossed in the story that I was caught off guard.

A word of caution: This book deals with emotional, physical, and sexual abuse of women.

Thanks to NetGalley, Bookoutoure, and the author for the a digital copy of The Trapped Ones in return for my honest review. My opinions are my own.

4 stars
Profile Image for Jazz Webb.
401 reviews93 followers
April 17, 2022
Book 4 in the Nikki Hunt series another slam dung by Stacey Green!!!

When missing girl Jessica is found dead in the home of local swimming student Byrce who is also hunting on for dear life, his parents are dead also. Special agent Nikki Hunt is trying ti put the pieces all together because something isn't right here but with Bryce in intensive care its up to her and her team to work out what happened.

I love this series each book is as amazing as the next and the trapped ones is no different. With some hard issues discussed throughout the book including domestic violence and rape I think it's important to give a trigger warning. What Stacy does is write so well about these highly emotive subjects it is clear that she has done her research and for that I must applaud her.
What I enjoyed about this installment was how special agent Nikki Hunt us also left completely baffled. So as I was reading along side her pov I found I had no clue what had happened either, which is rare. I also had no idea why Jessica was in the house which was rather confusing but once we find out more about her history. Did Bryce kidnap her, was she ever even missing? What happened. As the story unfolded I found myself completely obsessed.

I love Nikki Hunt her story has been all go since the first book snd her return to her home town. Plus I love reading the blossoming relationship between Nikki and Lacey with Rory. Plus there's follow up regarding her ex's parents and their fight for custody of Lacey. It's interesting to read how the loss of her ex husband affects not only her but his parents and how Lacey is the only tangible thing they have left to fight for. So whilst Nikki is trying to work out this mass murder she is constantly worried that she is going to loose her daughter.

Stacy Green should be praised for taking some of her story content to highlight the injustices that happened witg the Stanford rapist case. It's clear that some cross cutting themes are taken from this tragedy and further broken down into reasons why high members of society get away with sexual assualts often. I will say I wasn't expecting this and did find it a tad trigger so please be warned. You can read the pain that comes off the page I was left at one point with this overwhelming feeling to hmhug everyone (well well almost everyone).
I honestly was at a complete loose for why Jessica was found dead at a fellow students family home why they were dead and why Bryce wasn't. When it was finally explained i was at a loose for words, because my mind was blown!!!

All in all I completely recommend this book and all the rest in the Nikki Hunt series that way you get a full picture of who she is and where her journey had lead her to where she is today. This is by favourite in the series and therefore this is obviously a 5* review. Cannot wait for book 5.

Thanks to Bookouture, Stacy Green and netgalley forbthe digital copy of the trapped ones in exchange for my fair and honest opinions
Profile Image for Kat (Katlovesbooks) Dietrich.
1,543 reviews206 followers
July 11, 2022

3.5 stars

The Trapped Ones by Stacy Green is the fifth in the FBI Agent Nikki Hunt 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)
Nikki Hunt is an FBI Agent whose parents were murdered when she was young.  She helped put away Mark Todd for their murder, but 20 years later, discovered he was innocent, and fought for his release.  She is now dating Rory, Mark's younger brother.  Family dynamics are awkward.  She has a young daughter (Lacey), and her ex-husband (Tyler) was recently murdered.  Nikki heads the BAU unit based out of St. Paul Minnesota.  Her team consists of Crime Scene Analyst Courtney Hart and Agent Liam Wilson. Her boss is Victor Hernandez.


Synopsis:   (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions)
Nikki is called to the scene of a multiple homicide at a rather secluded farmhouse.  A man and his wife were fatally stabbed as well as a young girl.  The son, Bryce, is fighting for his life.

The girl was quickly identified as missing Jessica Chandler.  Bryce and Jessica attended the same university.  At first, Nikki thought they were a couple, but it turns out they have history, and it may not have been pleasant.  Bryce was an Olympic hopeful on the swim team, and he and his buddy Gavin got away with a lot of stuff.  But when Gavin and his girlfriend Ella go missing, it just adds confusion to an already strange case.

On a side note, Tyler's parents are trying to get custody of Lacey, citing Nikki's job as one of the reasons making her an unfit parent.


My Opinions:   
First, a couple of things I didn't like.  Not sure what the cover had to do with the book?  The custody battle -- I don't like this in any book, and I'm not sure it was explained how Nikki felt that she'd been cold to Tyler's parents.  Brenner -- anyone who has read a crime novel seems to know more than this rookie.  As well, Nikki seemed to play her own "name recognition", a little much, to the point where she sounded arrogant and egotistical.

So, although I still like Nikki, I now have some reservations.  I still really like Liam, Courtney, and Victor.  In addition, it was interesting to find out a little more about Melissa Blanchard (the Medical Examiner).

The book is basically about a privileged frat boy, about domestic violence, rape, and murder.  It is also about revenge.

This one started out slow, but by about 1/2 way through, I was very interested.  Normally that is way too long for me, but because it ended up being really good, I'm glad I stuck with it (mind you, I stick with everything, so....)  The plot continued to hold my attention, and the big twist was good.


For a more complete review of this book and others (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, as well as author information and contact details), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/
Profile Image for Robin Loves Reading.
2,909 reviews425 followers
May 6, 2022
Nikki Hunt's latest case is almost too much to bear. As a Special Agent with the FBI, Nikki pretty much has seen it all. But this latest crime scene is a brutal slaying of four people, with three of them dead. It seems that someone wanted the entire family dead, but one of the victims is not related. The surviving victim might hold the answers Nikki needs to find the killer'

Identifying the young woman found dead at the seen is only the first of many clues Nikki must unearth in order to find the person responsible. Since the girl found at the scene was a local student, Nikki goes to the college to interview other students. Things are slowly coming together but not before two more young people go missing.

While Nikki is navigating this difficult case, she has a personal battle on her hands. Her ex in-laws are planning to sue for custody of Nikki's five-year-old daughter Lacey. While it is true that the difficult cases Nikki handles take her away from Lacey at times, Nikki makes sure that she is well cared for and is well adjusted.

As in previous books in this thrilling series, Nikki must strike a fine balance between her professional and personal life, and she definitely proves more than adept in just about any situation.

I have read this series from the beginning, and Nikki has endured quite a bit. So much, in fact, that this is a series that should be read in order, as there is a lot of back story that avid readers of this genre might miss otherwise. Stacy Green has written another stunning book in an amazing series. This book, like all of the previous books in the Nikki Hunt series, have exciting premises, rapid pacing, shocking twists and turns, and always end with a thrilling climax. I await the next installment with eager anticipation.

Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.

Please also see my YouTube video review - https://youtu.be/r-LwfqRtkno
Profile Image for Sandra Hoover.
1,462 reviews258 followers
December 19, 2025
Another good addition to the Nikki Hunt series! As always, I was sucked in early, my attention riveted on the case. Flawed protagonist and well fleshed out characters carry the action throughout twists and turns until the climax. The only "fly in the ointment" with this story is the abrupt ending where I felt like I was "told" everything in the last chapter - what happened, who did what, the outcome, etc., - instead of letting it play out. It took me aback as I haven't experienced that in one of this author's books before. Still a great read and I look forward to moving on with the next book in the series.
Profile Image for Samantha.
422 reviews44 followers
March 16, 2023
The Trapped Ones by Stacy Green is a tense, gripping new installment in the Nikki Hunt series. The book also comes with a social message surrounding a case that bears heavy resemblance to a real life case. Nonetheless this was a page turner right from the start. The prologue is creepy, dark and leaves you wanting to uncover more. Every character in the book & case were good. The plot was very interesting too and something unique for me. The ending had a part that almost left me worried for one of the characters I've come to love but I was glad that turned out okay. I can't wait to see how it impacts the next case & the next cases Nikki and team come across.
Thank you, NetGalley, Bookouture & Stacy Green for this arc!

Merged review:

The Trapped Ones by Stacy Green is a tense, gripping new installment in the Nikki Hunt series. The book also comes with a social message surrounding a case that bears heavy resemblance to a real life case. Nonetheless this was a page turner right from the start. The prologue is creepy, dark and leaves you wanting to uncover more. Every character in the book & case were good. The plot was very interesting too and something unique for me. The ending had a part that almost left me worried for one of the characters I've come to love but I was glad that turned out okay. I can't wait to see how it impacts the next case & the next cases Nikki and team come across.
Thank you, NetGalley, Bookouture & Stacy Green for this arc!
Profile Image for Paula.
1,323 reviews48 followers
April 10, 2022
The Trapped Ones (Nikki Hunt Book 5) by Stacy Green

This book was only three stars for me. The characters were just okay, and I really couldn't connect with them to get invested in the story. I have read other books by Stacy Green and enjoyed them, but for some reason, this story did not hold my interest as much as her other books. I will read more by this author, however.

#TheTrappedOnes #NetGalley @bookouture

Merged review:

The Trapped Ones (Nikki Hunt Book 5) by Stacy Green was only three stars for me. The characters were just okay, and I really couldn't connect with them to get invested in the story. I have read other books by Stacy Green and enjoyed them, but for some reason, this story did not hold my interest as much as her other books. I will read more by this author, however.

#TheTrappedOnes #NetGalley @bookouture
Profile Image for Tracy Wood.
1,279 reviews30 followers
April 25, 2022
It's fair to say FBI Special Agent Nikki Hunt is well known for solving difficult and unexpected cases. This time however, she's going to need all her experience to deal with one the most complex she's had to deal with so far. Arriving at a large, fairly isolated, house she finds it hides a crime so awful seasoned officials leave the scene grey faced and without their lunch.

An Olympic level athlete is left fighting for his life possibly unaware that both his parents are dead along with a young student who had recently been reported missing. With the real chance of a serial killer once again on Nikki's radar her team joins forces with local detectives to try and find out what happened before anyone else dies. No-one is totally blameless their entire lives and soon it becomes apparent the outwardly happy Weber family is no different.  As secrets are revealed and possible culprits identified Nikki faces the possibility of losing more than anyone should have to even consider.

This is the fifth in the Nikki Hunt series and once again author Stacy Green has written a belter!  After four previous books the main protagonists are as familiar and likeable as ever, the story flows unhindered, and is easy to get lost in, which I definitely did. It starts with a bang and there is very little down time for anyone involved until a shocking resolution I absolutely didn't see coming. There are some brilliant crime series available at the moment; this is definitely one of them.

I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers but the opinions expressed are my own. This is a great read and although it can be read as a standalone it would be a shame not to experience all five so far.
Profile Image for Sue Plant.
2,337 reviews34 followers
April 22, 2022
would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this brilliant book

3 murders and the fourth victim in a coma, there are more questions than answers, but hunt has to figure out if its the work of a serial killer or an opportune home invasion that went seriously wrong

nikki hunt has her work cut out for her...and trying her patience is the uncle of the only surviving witness who is stonewalling them

as the police start looking into the assault on the this family a more sinister reason comes to light, one that will blow the minds of the university and people around town...could this be the reason why the uncle is covering everything up

couldnt put this book down at all...the hits keep coming with this book and it was nice to catch up with nikki to see how she is coping with all that she has been through with her daughter

cant wait for the next one in this fabulous series
Profile Image for Elaine - Splashes Into Books.
3,892 reviews136 followers
May 4, 2022
Three folks murdered, seriously injured is another,
Nikki Hunt is called out to see what she can discover.
An isolated farmhouse surrounded by a wood
Who disturbed the peace in the worst way they could?

A missing student, a message, is it a serial killer?
You'll need to read for yourself this great crime thriller.
College students, secrets, family dramas, too
Lots of discoveries to make before this story is through.

A gripping crime thriller with plenty of twists
Another page turner that shouldn't be missed.
For my complementary copy, I say thank you,
Such an intriguing thriller and this is my honest review.
780 reviews18 followers
April 18, 2022
Nikki Hunt is back and trying to solve a triple homicide that just keeps getting more and more involved.
A college girl missing.
A college boy in a coma.
A college fraternity with deep secrets.
A family with deeper secrets.
This is what Agent Hunt does best, profile, investigate and solve.
This one has all the twists and turns and things I couldn’t see coming.
One of my all time favorite series, when I see a new book in this series it immediately gets read!
This series just keeps getting better and better.
Profile Image for Bookworm86 .
2,017 reviews140 followers
May 10, 2022
BLOG TOUR REVIEW

Review for 'The Trapped Ones' by Stacy Green.

Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Stacy Green, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous

Publication date 3rd May 2022.

This is the fourth book I have read by this author. It is also the fifth book in the 'Nikki Hunt' series but can be read as a standalone. I have previously read 'The Girls In The Snow' which is the first book in the 'Nikki Hunt' series, 'Lost Angels' which is the third book in the series and 'The Girl In The Ground' which is the fourth book in the series and which I highly recommend.


I was originally drawn to this book by its gorgeous eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that 'Fans of Lisa Regan, Robert Dugoni and Kendra Elliot will be reading The Trapped Ones late into the night.' I am a huge fan of all three of these authors so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I am also a huge fan of Stacy Green and if this is half as good as 'The Girls In The Snow', 'Lost Angels' and 'The Girl In The Ground' it is sure to be a page turning read. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).

This novel consists of a prologue and 21 chapters. The chapters are short to medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!

This book is set in Minnesota, USA 🇺🇸.

This book is written in first person perspective with the main protagonist is Special Agent Nikki Hunt. The benefits of third person perspective are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out in anything.

'The Trapped Ones' discusses some topics that may trigger some readers or may not be suitable for others. I like to point this out ahead of time in my reviews so you can judge if this book is for you or not. In this book Stacy discusses/includes rape, domestic abuse and sexual assault. Due to these I would recommend reading age of 16 plus.

Wow!!! Yet another absolutely unputdownable addictive book in this gripping series!!! Very well written with fantastic descriptions this book had the perfect settings and a great storyline! The cover and blog suited the book perfectly.

The storyline started straight into the action and sucked me straight in where it kept me until the last page. Filled with murder, lies, suspense, action and many a red herring I didn't have a clue who did what which is a huge bonus when it comes to crime novels for me. There's nothing worse than working it all out and your not even half way through the book. This book is absolutely addictive and I read it in one sitting. It kept me on the edge of my seat, biting my nails with my heart absolutely pounding throughout especially at the end! Stacy brings up the subject or rape, domestic abuse and sexual assault in this book and although this can be hard to read about she has managed to weave it around an unputdownable storyline which will hopefully show readers that have or are going through this that there is help available out there and to get the help and support they need. I am pleased that things worked out in regards to a certain event with Nikki and Lacey although I won't say any more than that as I don't want to spoil it for future readers. I really am looking forward to the next episode in what is definitely A gripping, all consuming addictive series.

Although this is the fifth book in the series there would be absolutely no problems reading it without the others. Any details or events that have previously happened are mentioned in just the right amount of detail to let a new reader know what has happened and yet not too much to bore a previous reader.


I absolutely loved meeting Nikki, Liam and Courtney again. I love the fact that the females are such strong women who are not to be messed with and Ive become completely invested in each of them including the sweet Lacey although we didn't see much of her in this book I'm looking forward to seeing her again in the next one. Although Nikki went through hell as a teenager and continued to do so in each book, especially the previous book to this (Lost Angels, book three in this fantastic series) she was definitely not being dragged down. She has a massive personality and her team worked well together, each having their own individuality which is always great to see. All the characters were believable and worked really well with the story. The team dynamics are perfect and they all work well together, they can laugh together and bring each other comfort and it's lovely to see a team of friends work together in a book. I am looking forward to meeting them all again in the next novel.

This is exactly why you are on my favourite author list Stacy and I would love to see made into a movie!!! Here's to your next success 🥂

A MASSIVE CONGRATULATIONS ON YET ANOTHER FANTASTIC SUCCESS STACY AND HERE'S TO MANY MORE 🍻🥂 !!!!

Overall an absolute kick ass addition to an addictive, unputdownable race pulsing series!!


Genres covered in this novel include Mystery, Thriller, Suspense, Psychological Thriller, Romance Novel, Police Procedural and Crime Fiction amongst others.

I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of Karin Slaughter, M. J. Arlidge, P. J. Tracy, Lisa Regan, Robert Dugoni, Kendra Elliot and anyone after an action packed crime book.


266 pages.

This book is just £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!

Rated 5 /5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.

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Profile Image for Denise Juan.
61 reviews
September 19, 2024
Really good!!! Didn’t expect the ending. Do wish she would have gone a little bit more detailed about what happened to Gavin.
Profile Image for Ray Moon.
349 reviews10 followers
April 22, 2022
For Too Long, Privilege Meant No Accountability

Jessica is being chased through the woods at night. She is bleeding from her head. She makes for a house and bangs on the sliding glass window. I woman answers but is reluctant at first to let her in. The next morning, Nikki Hunt is out for a walk and receives a call from Kent Miller, a local Sheriff, asking for her assistance. When Nikki and her partner, Liam, arrive at the scene, they learn that the victims were a husband and wife, the homeowners, their son who was in critical condition, and a young coed, Jessica. From this start a very complex investigation begins.

The main storyline consists of one thread narrated by Nikki Hunt. As the only survivor, Bryce, is in an induced coma, there are not any eyewitnesses to the crime. The investigation turns difficult quite quickly. Bryce lives at a fraternity house whose members are quite tight knit. Bryce is a celebrity because of his swimming prowess. His single-occupancy room is locked, and Bryce’s uncle, a lawyer, shows up at the fraternity and tells Nikki that she cannot enter his room without a warrant. The investigation continues trying to find anyone with information connecting Bryce and Jennifer. While information is collected, they do not paint a consistent picture. My interest was quickly captured. The many twists and turns kept my interest all the way to the end.

The B-storyline has one supporting thread throughout the novel. This thread consists of a custody suit by the parents of her deceased husband over her young daughter. As the underlying basis is that Nikki’s demanding job adversely affects her ability to be a mother. This thread and its effect on Nikki’s actions as an FBI Special Agent made her character more realistic and enhanced my reading enjoyment. If you have not read the previous novels in this series, I believe, that should not stop from reading this novel first as adequate background is provided to understand this thread without the feeling that you missed anything.

As for intimacy, there is none, but crimes against women play a significant part in this novel. The frustration of the women who can not have the cases taken seriously is quite evident. Rude, not vulgar, language and some impious language are present but at a low level. While the violence is described after the fact, it was the victims reflecting upon crimes against them. I found it quite edgy. These aspects should not be objectionable to most readers, but be forewarned.

This novel has all of my criteria for a high star rating. The main storyline is complex, with many twists and turns that captured and kept my interest up to the end. The ending cleared up all the loose ends including how the murders occurred. This satisfied my sense for justice. Lastly, I could not stop reading even late into the night. I had a hard time putting it down. I have read the of the four previous novels in this series. I have purchased the one I have not read and two earlier books. Stacy Green is one of my Must-Read authors. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this novel. I am looking forward to reading further books/series by the author. I rate this novel with five stars.

I received a free e-book version of this novel through NetGalley from Bookouture. My review is based only by my own reading experience of this book. I wish to thank Bookouture for the opportunity to read and review this novel early.
Profile Image for Els .
2,289 reviews53 followers
May 3, 2022
When police officers are called to a scene, they often don’t know what they will find. This time, when Agent Nikki Hunt received the call, one of her colleagues already filled her in a bit, but images are always worse than words…

Nikki and team dive in straight away. Interrogations of friends, family, turning every stone in order to find clues, checking alibis,… and of course using these little snippets to piece the puzzle together.

When they come up with a theory, there is always something that does not add up and this means back to the drawing board and starting all over again.

If you have read book in this series before, you know Nikki. She is like a dog with a bone and she won’t back down until she has put the right people behind bars.

It’s very complicated though. Are the victims still victims or are they culprits and what about the culprits? Have they become victims all of a sudden?

And what about Nikki’s private life? There is something big hanging above her head too.

I already know the ins and the outs of the matter. I suppose you would like to know it too. There is only one thing left to do than. Grab a copy and immerse yourself in this story.

I, for one, loved it. 5 stars

.Thank you, Stacy Green and Bookouture
Profile Image for Charlie Morris (Read, Watch & Drink Coffee).
1,459 reviews67 followers
May 3, 2022
A suspenseful and fast-paced thriller, The Trapped Ones is another gripping instalment in an always-impressive detective franchise.

Stacy Green is firing out these instalments! She seems to be non-stop writing, and you can really tell as these instalments flow so well into one another. Green always does a fantastic job of making her books work as standalone thrillers while also giving a brief round-up of previous events.

This story definitely felt less personal than the previous two books have been, but it felt right for Hunt to get fully back into a new case after her previous emotional experiences, while there's just enough of her personal life being developed around her to keep her feeling very authentic and compelling.

As the fifth instalment, I've really grown to like these characters so I'm always excited to see more from them. And this case is another great one. It's tense, unpredictable, and also explores some very important topics.

The end was slightly rushed for me, but other than that, this was another exhilarating instalment and I'm still eager for more!
Profile Image for Imogen Dior.
957 reviews7 followers
June 12, 2024
Wow! Stacy Green’s writing just gets better and better as this series goes on. This has been my favourite Nikki Hunt book because you literally did not see the twists and turns coming. It was like mental gymnastics and the bam! In your face says Stacy because she has a much better plot than you even could’ve imagined. This author weaves incredible tales that intrigue and excite you in equal measure. Also who doesn’t love Nikki Hunt? As a heroine she is bad ass- she’s strong but also knows she has vulnerabilities and uses those to make her stronger, not only is she an incredible agent but mother, partner and friend. She’s a human being who is constantly working on herself. I love Rory and Lacey and family moments we see with them. I love the secondary characters we see from Courtney, Miller, Caitlin, Nash- huge shout out to Liam and his character. Love them all. Onto book 6 now.
Profile Image for Rainelle.
2,213 reviews126 followers
May 30, 2022
Wow, what exciting criminal case this book was. I liked how the book reads smoothly. It was a good page turner for me. The story and or plot shares a lot realism to it. Each character seemed to work well together with their personalities.
Everything about Nikki’s team was all business, hunt for the killer and bring justice to the victims. I especially liked that Nikki was the lead character as well as the boss of her team. She was intelligent, she can think in the moment of chaos, but I think that she needs to a touch up on her defense classes. The book was very entertaining and exciting. Until next time my fellow readers… read on
Profile Image for Cindy.
2,350 reviews172 followers
April 9, 2022
FBI Agent Nikki Hunt gets a call to come help with a triple homicide, and one survivor barely hanging on. Nikki's major crime unit arrive at the bloody scene to help the local police with the horrific crime.

The victims are the Weber family, Mother, Father and son Bryce who is the only surviving member and a 4th victim who is a female that is identified as missing college student Jessica Chandler. She is the one thing that the team doesn't understand why she is there.

When you start a book like this with violent murders you kind of have an impression about what happened. But in this case by the final reveal it was not what I was thinking at all.

Along with trying to solve the homicides, Nikki is also having to fight to keep custody of her daughter from her in-laws.

Another strong addition to the series.
Profile Image for Bella Crooke.
174 reviews62 followers
September 15, 2022
what a TWISTY RIDE NIKKI HUNT BOOK 5 IS!!!! i loved this one and i can’t wait for the next one!! i wish we would of gotten more of Rory and Lacey🥹 I LOVE THEM!!!! but overall a fast pace wild ride!!!!
1,144 reviews3 followers
November 17, 2023
Another winner in The Nikki Hunt series. I didn't have a clue who the actual killer was. Well done!
Profile Image for Joyce.
1,836 reviews41 followers
April 8, 2022
179 pages

4 stars

Nikki and her partner Liam get in a tight spot with this twisty and confusing case.

FBI Agents Nikki Hunt and Liam attend the scene of a horrific triple homicide. Another victim has been rushed to the hospital with life-threatening wounds. One of the dead is a young woman who disappeared two days earlier. What is going on?

With the aid of newly minted city detective Brenner, Nikki, Liam and the team set about to investigate. They are led to a sophisticated fraternity house where they meet several young men who claim to know nothing. There is also a previous graduate there. His presence is a little suspicious.

With the surviving victim in a coma, the case moves on. Connections are made. Secrets are uncovered. Examined photographs lead to clues.

When the deceased young woman's friends tell Nikki that she did not like the young man in the coma, Nikki wonders what she was doing in his house. Worse still, why was she wearing his clothes?

Two people go missing. What connection do they have with the murders?

In a nail-biting denouement, Nikki puts it all together. Will she get out of this one alive? Where is Liam?

This book is well written and plotted. It held my interest throughout. I liked Nikki and Liam and the team. They work well together. I also like that while Nikki has problems, she doesn’t let it affect her job. Well done, Ms. Green.

I want to thank NetGalley and Bookouture for forwarding to me a copy of this good book for me to read, enjoy and review. The opinions expressed here are solely my own.
Profile Image for neide.
81 reviews
August 28, 2022
It's more of a 3.5/5, honestly. While i enjoyed the book and devoured it quickly, i felt like the ending of the was rushed.
Profile Image for Julie Lacey.
2,043 reviews130 followers
April 26, 2022
Another great read in this series.
Nikki is looking for a missing girl but when she’s found dead along with three other people, she’s asked to take on the full case.
Jessica has been murdered but Nikki and Liam can’t work out what she was doing at the family home of a student.
As the investigation gathers pace it’s clear Bryce was accused of raping Jessica, but how did it end up with her dead and him in a coma?
This is a gripping crime thriller with a great investigation that definitely had me hooked.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
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