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Columbia River #4
The First Death
For a search and rescue expert, the buried remains of her past are a dangerous obsession in a twisting novel of suspense by a Wall Street Journal and Amazon Charts bestselling author.
Rowan Wolff was five years old when she, her brother, and their babysitter were kidnapped by a serial killer in the Pacific Northwest. The babysitter was murdered. Rowan was saved. Her brother was killed and buried in the forest, his remains never found. The convicted killer refuses to say where he buried the boy. Twenty-five years later, Rowan is committed to search and rescue with her faithful canine and is obsessed with finding her brother’s grave―and closure.
Detective Evan Bolton thrives on unraveling tough cases, but his latest is disturbing. There’s another serial killer hunting in Deschutes County, Oregon, and the crimes are identical to those committed by the sociopath languishing in prison. Each victim is linked to Rowan. When skeletal remains of several bodies are exhumed in the forest, Rowan’s connection becomes more entwined and impossible to ignore.
Rowan and Evan are determined to solve the case before someone else dies. And someone else will, as the truth about the past is unearthed.
Rowan Wolff was five years old when she, her brother, and their babysitter were kidnapped by a serial killer in the Pacific Northwest. The babysitter was murdered. Rowan was saved. Her brother was killed and buried in the forest, his remains never found. The convicted killer refuses to say where he buried the boy. Twenty-five years later, Rowan is committed to search and rescue with her faithful canine and is obsessed with finding her brother’s grave―and closure.
Detective Evan Bolton thrives on unraveling tough cases, but his latest is disturbing. There’s another serial killer hunting in Deschutes County, Oregon, and the crimes are identical to those committed by the sociopath languishing in prison. Each victim is linked to Rowan. When skeletal remains of several bodies are exhumed in the forest, Rowan’s connection becomes more entwined and impossible to ignore.
Rowan and Evan are determined to solve the case before someone else dies. And someone else will, as the truth about the past is unearthed.
313 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 13, 2023
3993 people are currently reading
8719 people want to read
About the author
Kendra Elliot
39 books6,348 followersAn Amazon #1 selling author, Kendra Elliot has sold over 14 Million books and been on the WSJ best seller more than a dozen times.
She grew up in the lush Pacific Northwest and still lives, but spends most of the time in the high desert in flip flops.
She grew up in the lush Pacific Northwest and still lives, but spends most of the time in the high desert in flip flops.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 647 reviews
June 20, 2023
This book deeply moved me. Rowan's character is incredibly strong, and her backstory is profoundly heartbreaking. The story is gripping and filled with suspense, and I adored how everything interconnected. The plot, coupled with an unexpected and brilliant twist, brought me to the brink of tears. Right from the first chapter, told from Rowan's childhood perspective, the suspense was palpable. The author did a fantastic job of dividing the story into two parts while keeping them intricately linked. I can't wait for the fifth installment in this series!
Trigger warnings: Child abuse
Trigger warnings: Child abuse
December 7, 2022
Pretty disturbing!
I like the writing so much! There’s so much tension throughout the entire read. I just couldn’t stop reading once I reached the first half of the first chapter. It’s so addictive because it’s so disturbing.
I hope no child got to get through such things.
I won’t go for the plot. But I will say what I like about the book so much. The writing matches the pace and the plot. The characters are realistic. The events that are happening are realistic enough. The author doesn’t waste words. The ending is good. Things wrapped up well and good. However, you will find yourself looking forward for the next book!
And yes, you can read this as a standalone.
Thank you, Montlake, for the advance reading copy.
I like the writing so much! There’s so much tension throughout the entire read. I just couldn’t stop reading once I reached the first half of the first chapter. It’s so addictive because it’s so disturbing.
I hope no child got to get through such things.
I won’t go for the plot. But I will say what I like about the book so much. The writing matches the pace and the plot. The characters are realistic. The events that are happening are realistic enough. The author doesn’t waste words. The ending is good. Things wrapped up well and good. However, you will find yourself looking forward for the next book!
And yes, you can read this as a standalone.
Thank you, Montlake, for the advance reading copy.
August 13, 2023
Deschutes County Detective Evan Bolton has a huge workload. He is investigating the murder of a camper when he learns about the body of a woman who was found near the river. Her description matches the descriptions of two other bodies who were found in the vicinity. Evan believes they may have a serial killer on their hands.
Rowan Wolff and her brother, along with their babysitter, were kidnapped twenty-five years ago. The babysitter was killed. Rowan and Malcolm were held in a shed until they escaped one night. Rowan was later rescued by a search and rescue team. Malcolm was never heard from again. Now Rowan and her dog Thor work with the local Search and Rescue team. Rowan and Thor found the body near the river while she was out looking for clues to her brother's disappearance. When the police search the nearby area where the body was found, they find the remains of three murder victims. Could one of these victims be Rowan's brother Malcolm?
The fourth book in the Columbia River series was a tough read. Rowan is such a strong character. She and her brother suffered unspeakable abuse while being held for weeks by their kidnappers. She has worked with Evan on previous cases and they make a good team. They have a slow-burn romance which I hope is explored in the next couple of books.
The suspense story has a few twists. I did not figure out the identity of the killer or his accomplice until it was uncovered. My rating: 4 Stars.
Rowan Wolff and her brother, along with their babysitter, were kidnapped twenty-five years ago. The babysitter was killed. Rowan and Malcolm were held in a shed until they escaped one night. Rowan was later rescued by a search and rescue team. Malcolm was never heard from again. Now Rowan and her dog Thor work with the local Search and Rescue team. Rowan and Thor found the body near the river while she was out looking for clues to her brother's disappearance. When the police search the nearby area where the body was found, they find the remains of three murder victims. Could one of these victims be Rowan's brother Malcolm?
The fourth book in the Columbia River series was a tough read. Rowan is such a strong character. She and her brother suffered unspeakable abuse while being held for weeks by their kidnappers. She has worked with Evan on previous cases and they make a good team. They have a slow-burn romance which I hope is explored in the next couple of books.
The suspense story has a few twists. I did not figure out the identity of the killer or his accomplice until it was uncovered. My rating: 4 Stars.
April 4, 2023
This is the fourth book in the Columbia River series. This is the only books I've read in this series, but it could easily stand alone. In fact, I'd be hard pressed to guess which characters are appearing from the previous books, unless it is Detective Eric Bolton - and he may be it.
The description:
"Rowan Wolff was five years old when she, her brother, and their babysitter were kidnapped by a serial killer in the Pacific Northwest. The babysitter was murdered. Rowan was saved. Her brother was killed and buried in the forest, his remains never found. The convicted killer refuses to say where he buried the boy. Twenty-five years later, Rowan is committed to search and rescue with her faithful canine and is obsessed with finding her brother’s grave—and closure.
Detective Evan Bolton thrives on unraveling tough cases, but his latest is disturbing. There’s another serial killer hunting in Deschutes County, Oregon, and the crimes are identical to those committed by the sociopath languishing in prison. Each victim is linked to Rowan. When skeletal remains of several bodies are exhumed in the forest, Rowan’s connection becomes more entwined and impossible to ignore.
Rowan and Evan are determined to solve the case before someone else dies. And someone else will, as the truth about the past is unearthed."
This is a tense, dramatic read that kept me turning the pages late into the night. I really didn't want to put the book down until I found out how it would end. My heart broke for Malcolm. The kidnapper was horror personified. I have to say I stayed angry through much of the book. I loved the relationship Rowan had with her dog, Thor. I admired Rowan's resolve and her chosen profession of helping other after her ordeal. Detective Eric Bolton came across as a strong, sensitive man and an intuitive detective.
Thanks to Montlake through Netgalley for an advance copy. This book will be published on June 13, 2023.
The description:
"Rowan Wolff was five years old when she, her brother, and their babysitter were kidnapped by a serial killer in the Pacific Northwest. The babysitter was murdered. Rowan was saved. Her brother was killed and buried in the forest, his remains never found. The convicted killer refuses to say where he buried the boy. Twenty-five years later, Rowan is committed to search and rescue with her faithful canine and is obsessed with finding her brother’s grave—and closure.
Detective Evan Bolton thrives on unraveling tough cases, but his latest is disturbing. There’s another serial killer hunting in Deschutes County, Oregon, and the crimes are identical to those committed by the sociopath languishing in prison. Each victim is linked to Rowan. When skeletal remains of several bodies are exhumed in the forest, Rowan’s connection becomes more entwined and impossible to ignore.
Rowan and Evan are determined to solve the case before someone else dies. And someone else will, as the truth about the past is unearthed."
This is a tense, dramatic read that kept me turning the pages late into the night. I really didn't want to put the book down until I found out how it would end. My heart broke for Malcolm. The kidnapper was horror personified. I have to say I stayed angry through much of the book. I loved the relationship Rowan had with her dog, Thor. I admired Rowan's resolve and her chosen profession of helping other after her ordeal. Detective Eric Bolton came across as a strong, sensitive man and an intuitive detective.
Thanks to Montlake through Netgalley for an advance copy. This book will be published on June 13, 2023.
June 8, 2023
Chilling, riveting, sick and terrifying with twists and turns you can see coming but take you by surprise anyway. Why? That is the question that was front and center in my mind for most of the book. My answer? Because they could and because there really are evil people out there.
Rowan Wolff became a Search and Rescue dog handler because a SAR volunteer saved her life. She was five years old and her brother, Malcom was six when they and their babysitter were kidnapped. Rowan survived, the babysitter was murdered, but Malcom was never found. After twenty-five years remains of two other women and a child have been found, but their identities can't be verified. Rowan has been searching for Malcom through the years and yet her ordeal is still not over.
Evan Bolton has a full plate as a Detective in Bend, OR. Right now, he has three dead women and a murdered camper and when the remains of two more women and a child are discovered, he realizes that they all connect, in some way, to Rowan and what happened to her. A serial killer in Deschutes County is a terrifying prospect. But the killer and kidnapper from years ago is in prison. Who is the current murderer?
Rowan suffered abuse the likes of which would cripple another person, but she has become stronger for her ordeal. Evan's sister had disappeared yet was found years later so he understands a little of her enduring pain. The attraction between these two has been growing for two years with their chance meetings and now it is a force that can't be denied. Working together is the only way they are going to survive and solve this case and find out just where this attraction is going.
My thanks to the Publisher and Author for providing a complimentary digital Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this novel via NetGalley. This is my fair, honest and personal review. All opinions are mine alone and were not biased in any way.
Rowan Wolff became a Search and Rescue dog handler because a SAR volunteer saved her life. She was five years old and her brother, Malcom was six when they and their babysitter were kidnapped. Rowan survived, the babysitter was murdered, but Malcom was never found. After twenty-five years remains of two other women and a child have been found, but their identities can't be verified. Rowan has been searching for Malcom through the years and yet her ordeal is still not over.
Evan Bolton has a full plate as a Detective in Bend, OR. Right now, he has three dead women and a murdered camper and when the remains of two more women and a child are discovered, he realizes that they all connect, in some way, to Rowan and what happened to her. A serial killer in Deschutes County is a terrifying prospect. But the killer and kidnapper from years ago is in prison. Who is the current murderer?
Rowan suffered abuse the likes of which would cripple another person, but she has become stronger for her ordeal. Evan's sister had disappeared yet was found years later so he understands a little of her enduring pain. The attraction between these two has been growing for two years with their chance meetings and now it is a force that can't be denied. Working together is the only way they are going to survive and solve this case and find out just where this attraction is going.
My thanks to the Publisher and Author for providing a complimentary digital Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this novel via NetGalley. This is my fair, honest and personal review. All opinions are mine alone and were not biased in any way.
December 9, 2022
Oh my goodness! What a great read!
Twenty-five years ago, 5 year old Rowan Wolff and her 7 year old brother Malcolm are kidnapped along with their babysitter by some evil men. Taken deep in the woods of Oregon they are mentally tortured and the babysitter murdered. One evening one of the men want to play a game of hunt ... chasing the children through the woods and capturing. Rowan manages to get away but Malcolm isn't as lucky. Rowan was eventually found and taken to safety, but her brother never was. 25 years pass and Rowan is still searching for her missing brother. Now working Search and Rescue with her beloved dog, Thor, she finds peace in helping families find their missing loved ones. When a dead woman in the woods is discovered along with bones of others, Rowan ends up in the middle of a decades long mystery that is more connected to her than she ever dreamed. Detective Evan Bolton starts working on the case and soon is afraid that a serial killer may be in the area.
A nonstop edge of your seat read. The multiple points of view and timelines worked well together. I did figure out several connections but that didn't distract from the story. Can definitely be read as a stand alone. Don't miss this!
Special thanks to NetGalley and Montlake for the ARC!
Twenty-five years ago, 5 year old Rowan Wolff and her 7 year old brother Malcolm are kidnapped along with their babysitter by some evil men. Taken deep in the woods of Oregon they are mentally tortured and the babysitter murdered. One evening one of the men want to play a game of hunt ... chasing the children through the woods and capturing. Rowan manages to get away but Malcolm isn't as lucky. Rowan was eventually found and taken to safety, but her brother never was. 25 years pass and Rowan is still searching for her missing brother. Now working Search and Rescue with her beloved dog, Thor, she finds peace in helping families find their missing loved ones. When a dead woman in the woods is discovered along with bones of others, Rowan ends up in the middle of a decades long mystery that is more connected to her than she ever dreamed. Detective Evan Bolton starts working on the case and soon is afraid that a serial killer may be in the area.
A nonstop edge of your seat read. The multiple points of view and timelines worked well together. I did figure out several connections but that didn't distract from the story. Can definitely be read as a stand alone. Don't miss this!
Special thanks to NetGalley and Montlake for the ARC!
June 18, 2023
Then: Five-year-old Rowan Wolff was kidnapped along with her older brother, seven-year-old Malcolm, & their babysitter, Carissa. Carissa is soon murdered & the two children are made to live in a locked shed in the yard of an isolated house. The two are tortured with food & sleep deprivation & are made to physically hurt each other under threat of worse to come. Malcolm tries to protect his younger sister the best he can but this leads to their captor breaking Rowan's leg. The children finally get a chance to run & Malcolm carries Rowan as far as he can but eventually he has to leave her hidden away safe whilst he goes for help. Rowan is eventually rescued but Malcolm's body is never found.
Now: Twenty-five years later, Rowan is now a search and rescue team with Thor, her highly trained dog. Every year she goes back to the area where she was found all those years ago to search for her brother's remains. She is called in on a case by Detective Evan Bolton who is investigating a serial killer. As the case progresses, Evan is disturbed to find that each of the victims is linked to Rowan, & it culminates with the discovery of the bones of young child in the forest. Has Malcolm finally been found?
This is my first book in the series even though it is number 4, but the books seem to be standalones with their own stories & perhaps some recurring characters. I didn't feel as if I had missed anything anyway. I'm not usually a big fan of romance thrillers as the romance tends to overtake the thriller aspect in most cases, but here the romance was a gentle undercurrent rather than dominating the storyline. It was difficult to read in places particularly the flashbacks to what the children were experiencing at the hands of their kidnapper & anyone with claustrophobia - be warned there are a few scenes of Malcolm being locked away in a small box.
The narrative is told via Evan, Rowan, & an unnamed third party. The pace was good, the storyline kept my attention even though I managed to work most of it out in advance, & both Rowan & Evan were okay main characters. I absolutely adored Thor though - who wouldn't? What a good boy! I'm also pleased to say that he was absolutely fine throughout the book too. Verdict: I mostly enjoyed reading this (bar those flashbacks scenes) & plan on checking out some of the other books by this author.
TWs: kidnapping, torture of minors, murder.
My thanks to NetGalley & publishers, Montlake, for the opportunity to read an ARC.
Now: Twenty-five years later, Rowan is now a search and rescue team with Thor, her highly trained dog. Every year she goes back to the area where she was found all those years ago to search for her brother's remains. She is called in on a case by Detective Evan Bolton who is investigating a serial killer. As the case progresses, Evan is disturbed to find that each of the victims is linked to Rowan, & it culminates with the discovery of the bones of young child in the forest. Has Malcolm finally been found?
This is my first book in the series even though it is number 4, but the books seem to be standalones with their own stories & perhaps some recurring characters. I didn't feel as if I had missed anything anyway. I'm not usually a big fan of romance thrillers as the romance tends to overtake the thriller aspect in most cases, but here the romance was a gentle undercurrent rather than dominating the storyline. It was difficult to read in places particularly the flashbacks to what the children were experiencing at the hands of their kidnapper & anyone with claustrophobia - be warned there are a few scenes of Malcolm being locked away in a small box.
The narrative is told via Evan, Rowan, & an unnamed third party. The pace was good, the storyline kept my attention even though I managed to work most of it out in advance, & both Rowan & Evan were okay main characters. I absolutely adored Thor though - who wouldn't? What a good boy! I'm also pleased to say that he was absolutely fine throughout the book too. Verdict: I mostly enjoyed reading this (bar those flashbacks scenes) & plan on checking out some of the other books by this author.
TWs: kidnapping, torture of minors, murder.
My thanks to NetGalley & publishers, Montlake, for the opportunity to read an ARC.
June 19, 2023
Kendra Elliot is a favorite author but she often makes me uncomfortable.
She writes gritty, edge of your seat crime fiction but the subject matter is often challenging.
So trigger warnings. This book contains violence directed at children.
And honestly I was dreading continuing the book over the weekend.
But I did finish the book and 5 Stars....minus one for turning my already sparse hair a little greyer.
She writes gritty, edge of your seat crime fiction but the subject matter is often challenging.
So trigger warnings. This book contains violence directed at children.
And honestly I was dreading continuing the book over the weekend.
But I did finish the book and 5 Stars....minus one for turning my already sparse hair a little greyer.
December 3, 2022
Two reviews in one day? Who is she??
I wasn’t planning on finishing a book today, but I started this one and could NOT put it down. The perfect crime thriller. I had no idea this was part of a series, so you definitely don’t have to read the other ones prior. I am for sure going to check out the rest of her books, this was an amazing read! Releasing in June.
I wasn’t planning on finishing a book today, but I started this one and could NOT put it down. The perfect crime thriller. I had no idea this was part of a series, so you definitely don’t have to read the other ones prior. I am for sure going to check out the rest of her books, this was an amazing read! Releasing in June.
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September 14, 2024Evan Bolton is getting his own book!! My level of excitement is somewhere between I squealed and I almost had a heart attack.
February 23, 2024
A very good installment in this Kendra Elliott series. A gripping story with well developed characters and a riveting plot. Elliot is an excellent story teller, and her writing style does not get in the way of the story. That's a high compliment as far as I am concerned.
June 15, 2023
A Search and Rescue dog handler and a determined police detective find more than a working partnership in the Oregon Wilderness, but a serial killer is hunting and the danger is closer than they realize. Kendra Elliot dazzled me with her Mercy Kilpatrick series and I’ve found each new release is as gripping as the last.
The First Death is the fourth in the Columbia River series of standalone mysteries. Now, though these are standalones, it has been fun to see that each return to one of the author’s previous series to tell further stories, usually of a side character. In this case, two side characters from the Mercy Kilpatrick series get the spotlight.
The First Death is told in split time and between alternating narrators. Rowan’s narration goes between the past as the little five year old who was kidnapped and as the adult woman, amazing search and rescue dog handler. Then there is Malcolm’s perspective as Rowan’s seven year old brother desperately trying to protect his sister, a mystery narrator in the present, and Evan’s present narration as he works the case of a murdered camper and the serial kills of young women. This might seem like a busy, confusing story, as a result, but in reality, these split storylines and perspectives draw the reader into the story so it is felt viscerally.
The impact of this story was hard and heavy. Child kidnapping, serial killing women, enslavement, torture, and indoctrination were all there. There is a light at the end of the tunnel, but the tunnel gets dark before the other side is reached. And, in the midst of it all, Evan and Rowan connect and tentatively began to find the beginning of a relationship as they work on a murder investigation, the previous murders of three women, and tease out how Rowan’s past kidnapping fits into this scenario.
As the reader, I was privy to more than Rowan and Evan, but that took nothing away from the tension as they track down the truth and raced to stop an evil that has been around for years and still preying on people. I loved how the author was careful with the situations presented in this thrilling romantic suspense and with the police investigation and Rowan’s dog handling work which was great to have a strong part of the story.
An amazing entry that wrung me out emotional and ended on a triumphant note. Romantic suspense fans should read the Mercy Kilpatrick series and this additional series of standalones.
I rec'd an eARC via NetGalley to read in exchange for an honest review.
My full review will post at The Reading Frenzy on June 13th.
The First Death is the fourth in the Columbia River series of standalone mysteries. Now, though these are standalones, it has been fun to see that each return to one of the author’s previous series to tell further stories, usually of a side character. In this case, two side characters from the Mercy Kilpatrick series get the spotlight.
The First Death is told in split time and between alternating narrators. Rowan’s narration goes between the past as the little five year old who was kidnapped and as the adult woman, amazing search and rescue dog handler. Then there is Malcolm’s perspective as Rowan’s seven year old brother desperately trying to protect his sister, a mystery narrator in the present, and Evan’s present narration as he works the case of a murdered camper and the serial kills of young women. This might seem like a busy, confusing story, as a result, but in reality, these split storylines and perspectives draw the reader into the story so it is felt viscerally.
The impact of this story was hard and heavy. Child kidnapping, serial killing women, enslavement, torture, and indoctrination were all there. There is a light at the end of the tunnel, but the tunnel gets dark before the other side is reached. And, in the midst of it all, Evan and Rowan connect and tentatively began to find the beginning of a relationship as they work on a murder investigation, the previous murders of three women, and tease out how Rowan’s past kidnapping fits into this scenario.
As the reader, I was privy to more than Rowan and Evan, but that took nothing away from the tension as they track down the truth and raced to stop an evil that has been around for years and still preying on people. I loved how the author was careful with the situations presented in this thrilling romantic suspense and with the police investigation and Rowan’s dog handling work which was great to have a strong part of the story.
An amazing entry that wrung me out emotional and ended on a triumphant note. Romantic suspense fans should read the Mercy Kilpatrick series and this additional series of standalones.
I rec'd an eARC via NetGalley to read in exchange for an honest review.
My full review will post at The Reading Frenzy on June 13th.
December 20, 2022
Trigger warning: child abuse.
Grab tissues but please grit your teeth and read this one. You'll be surprised at the goings on in Bend, OR and with Rowan and her brother. When they were kidnapped as children.
Even as Evan is looking for a current killer Rowan and her dog, Thor, is at his scene searching for the boy who's mother has just been found dead.
But his mind keeps going back and forth between then case and another. Does he have a third victim? And then he's called to yet another case.
Rowan has grown into an amazing SAR team with her dog and they work hard to be able to help find those who are missing. This story comes closer to home than some others and it will keep them close to many of Evan's cases.
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Grab tissues but please grit your teeth and read this one. You'll be surprised at the goings on in Bend, OR and with Rowan and her brother. When they were kidnapped as children.
Even as Evan is looking for a current killer Rowan and her dog, Thor, is at his scene searching for the boy who's mother has just been found dead.
But his mind keeps going back and forth between then case and another. Does he have a third victim? And then he's called to yet another case.
Rowan has grown into an amazing SAR team with her dog and they work hard to be able to help find those who are missing. This story comes closer to home than some others and it will keep them close to many of Evan's cases.
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 8, 2023
Soooo disturbing!😱
I'm glad that Evan had his HEA.
I'm glad that Evan had his HEA.
October 29, 2025
Easily the best of the series! Kendra Elliott nailed it with this one. The pacing is spot-on, the mystery has just the right amount of twists, and the emotional tension is incredible. I’ve loved most of her interconnecting series, but this one had that something extra; tighter writing, more depth in the characters, and a really satisfying ending. It’s the kind of book that reminds you why you fell in love with the series in the first place. Absolutely loved it! 5 stars 🌟
July 5, 2023
This book is labeled as romantic suspense, but I found it to be severely lacking in the romantic aspect. The suspense was fabulous and even had a big twist at the end that I didn’t see coming. But I felt absolutely no connection between Rowan and Evan and that disappointed me.
I have noticed that each book I’ve read by Ms. Elliot has characters from previous books in them. While I think they could stand on their own, I really wish I had started with the Mercy Kilpatrick books and worked my way up to this series. In her acknowledgments at the end of this book, Ms. Elliot mentions which books in which Evan and Rowan first appeared. She said that it “felt very natural to have him (Evan) and Rowan come together.” I certainly didn’t feel it. But perhaps if I’d read all those other books, I would have felt something between the two MCs.
So, I recommend this book if you’re looking for a really good police procedural/suspense book. But if you’ve got your heart set on some romance, you’ll be sorely disappointed.
I have noticed that each book I’ve read by Ms. Elliot has characters from previous books in them. While I think they could stand on their own, I really wish I had started with the Mercy Kilpatrick books and worked my way up to this series. In her acknowledgments at the end of this book, Ms. Elliot mentions which books in which Evan and Rowan first appeared. She said that it “felt very natural to have him (Evan) and Rowan come together.” I certainly didn’t feel it. But perhaps if I’d read all those other books, I would have felt something between the two MCs.
So, I recommend this book if you’re looking for a really good police procedural/suspense book. But if you’ve got your heart set on some romance, you’ll be sorely disappointed.
May 30, 2023
If you love a gripping thriller with dark back story, I have something for your summer reading list!
Kendra Elliot’s THE FIRST DEATH is a dramatic search- &- rescue suspense novel that opens with the discovery of a lost child in a forest and and never lets up. Kidnapping survivor Rowan Wolff and her trusty search dog Thor team with Detective Evan Bolton in a pulse-pounder where the tension and twists are non-stop..
Unforgettable characters, both human and canine.
Kendra Elliot’s THE FIRST DEATH is a dramatic search- &- rescue suspense novel that opens with the discovery of a lost child in a forest and and never lets up. Kidnapping survivor Rowan Wolff and her trusty search dog Thor team with Detective Evan Bolton in a pulse-pounder where the tension and twists are non-stop..
Unforgettable characters, both human and canine.
November 26, 2022
Number 4 in Kendra Elliott’s Columbia River series, this thriller stars Detective Evan Bolton and Rowan Wolff, a canine search-and-rescue expert (her dog Thor and all canine finders are always described as person and dog, remember that 😅). Both Evan and Rowan assisted FBI agent Mercy Kilpatrick (another Elliott series) in an earlier novel, but really don’t know each other well. The central mystery here revolves around Rowan, who was kidnapped 25 years ago at age 5 with her 7 year old brother, Malcolm. Although their kidnapper was captured and imprisoned, Malcolm was never found. Now the man who located a lost Rowan in the forest and inspired her to become a canine rescue handler has been found murdered. As Rowan does her annual return to the woods to find some clue to Malcolm, she and Evan also become involved in the discovery of more serial killings, similar to the ones her kidnapper was convicted of.
The plot was twisty and suspenseful — Rowan has a lot of disturbing connections to the murders and Evan would them resolved so he can act on his attraction to her. You never knew what would be the next reveal — an edge of your seat thriller that kept me entranced. The lead characters (especially Thor, the dog) are so easy to like and root for. I like Ms. Elliott’s books because although the characters have secrets, they usually never turn out to be disappointing unreliable narrators. You can trust the plot to resolve itself and the good guys mostly win. 4 stars! I’ll be looking for more Columbia River books — and, by the way, this one also shines as a stand alone.
Thank you to Montlake and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review! 4 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Kendra Elliott books are so easy to read, like episodes of your favorite law enforcement TV show.
Literary Pet Peeve Checklist:
Green Eyes (only 2% of the real world, yet it seems like 90% of all fictional females): YES The “river woman” has green eyes.
Horticultural Faux Pas (plants out of season or growing zones, like daffodils in autumn or bougainvillea in Alaska): NO Lots of forest vignettes, but nothing out of place in the Pacific Northwest.
The plot was twisty and suspenseful — Rowan has a lot of disturbing connections to the murders and Evan would them resolved so he can act on his attraction to her. You never knew what would be the next reveal — an edge of your seat thriller that kept me entranced. The lead characters (especially Thor, the dog) are so easy to like and root for. I like Ms. Elliott’s books because although the characters have secrets, they usually never turn out to be disappointing unreliable narrators. You can trust the plot to resolve itself and the good guys mostly win. 4 stars! I’ll be looking for more Columbia River books — and, by the way, this one also shines as a stand alone.
Thank you to Montlake and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review! 4 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Kendra Elliott books are so easy to read, like episodes of your favorite law enforcement TV show.
Literary Pet Peeve Checklist:
Green Eyes (only 2% of the real world, yet it seems like 90% of all fictional females): YES The “river woman” has green eyes.
Horticultural Faux Pas (plants out of season or growing zones, like daffodils in autumn or bougainvillea in Alaska): NO Lots of forest vignettes, but nothing out of place in the Pacific Northwest.
April 15, 2024
Rowan Wolff was five years old when she, her brother, Malcolm, and their babysitter were kidnapped. The babysitter was murdered, Rowan was saved and her brother was killed and buried in the forest, but his remains never found. The man convicted in those crimes, as well as other murders of several women, refuses to say where he buried the body, also stating that it was an accident. Fast forward twenty-five years, and Rowan is now working with search and rescue, partnered with her dog, Thor. On her down time, she still searches for her brother's grave. When new murders begin to occur, Detective Evan Bolton is stumped. The murders are identical to those perpetrated by the sociopath that is in prison. Are they copycat killings or was there a partner that has come out of hiding? It seems that there is some connection to Rowan, which pulls her into the investigation.
This is another gripping Columbia River story. Rowan's story is told in flashbacks and memories, as well as another storyline of a young man who is also a captive. There is sadism and psychopathic behaviour described in those storylines, so fair warning. Rowan is such a strong female character, but I was worried something might happen to her. Rowan and Evan worked well together, and I liked how they investigated and followed the clues. I enjoyed seeing Evan in the main role, as he has appeared in previous books as a secondary character. With the descriptive details from their captivity, I was glad to see that Rowan's family was supportive and of course, Thor is amazing. This is a story that moves quickly, has several twists and reveals that surprised me and kept me gripped from the beginning until the end. I did a read listen and enjoyed the narration by Teri Schnaubelt and Michael Crouch. With two narrators, they did a great job with both the male and female voices giving them life and adding to my enjoyment of the story. I have listened to the previous books in the series narrated by Teri Schnaubelt and love that I recognize the voices given, but enjoyed the addition of a male narrator. I recommend this book in whatever format you prefer.
This is another gripping Columbia River story. Rowan's story is told in flashbacks and memories, as well as another storyline of a young man who is also a captive. There is sadism and psychopathic behaviour described in those storylines, so fair warning. Rowan is such a strong female character, but I was worried something might happen to her. Rowan and Evan worked well together, and I liked how they investigated and followed the clues. I enjoyed seeing Evan in the main role, as he has appeared in previous books as a secondary character. With the descriptive details from their captivity, I was glad to see that Rowan's family was supportive and of course, Thor is amazing. This is a story that moves quickly, has several twists and reveals that surprised me and kept me gripped from the beginning until the end. I did a read listen and enjoyed the narration by Teri Schnaubelt and Michael Crouch. With two narrators, they did a great job with both the male and female voices giving them life and adding to my enjoyment of the story. I have listened to the previous books in the series narrated by Teri Schnaubelt and love that I recognize the voices given, but enjoyed the addition of a male narrator. I recommend this book in whatever format you prefer.
April 11, 2023
Rowan Wolff and her dog Thor are a very successful search and rescue team working in the Pacific Northwest. They also help the police and other emergency services when asked, with Rowan always on board when children are missing as her life was saved by a similar team when she was only five.
Detective Evan Bolton has been amazed by Rowan and Thor's special relationship and expertise meaning he is always keen to ask for her assistance if his investigation demands it. Unfortunately his latest case draws her in initially as she can identify his latest victim. With her traumatic past appearing to be inextricably linked to an increasing number of bodies and the danger moving ever closer can they identify the killer or will history begin repeating itself once again?
The fourth installment of Kendra Elliot's excellent Colombia River series concentrates on Rowan Wolff's story with the investigation focusing on her traumatic past. It is an exciting, page turner of a thriller with a hint of romance, family relationships, and all the well researched detail you would expect from this brilliant author. It also once again allows fans of her other series a chance to revisit with their favourite characters.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers but the opinions expressed are my own. I loved this and happily recommend it.
Detective Evan Bolton has been amazed by Rowan and Thor's special relationship and expertise meaning he is always keen to ask for her assistance if his investigation demands it. Unfortunately his latest case draws her in initially as she can identify his latest victim. With her traumatic past appearing to be inextricably linked to an increasing number of bodies and the danger moving ever closer can they identify the killer or will history begin repeating itself once again?
The fourth installment of Kendra Elliot's excellent Colombia River series concentrates on Rowan Wolff's story with the investigation focusing on her traumatic past. It is an exciting, page turner of a thriller with a hint of romance, family relationships, and all the well researched detail you would expect from this brilliant author. It also once again allows fans of her other series a chance to revisit with their favourite characters.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers but the opinions expressed are my own. I loved this and happily recommend it.
June 13, 2023
YOU WILL NOT WANT TO PUT THIS BOOK DOWN.
Rowan and her brother, five and seven years old, were kidnapped along with their babysitter. The babysitter was killed and the siblings were held in the woods, for weeks. They are freed but Rowan has a broken leg and Malcolm, her brother, hides her and goes for help. A search and rescue dog finds her after several days but her brother is never found. Twenty five years later, Rowan and her dog Thor are search and rescue now. She is the best and every year on her brothers birthday she searches where she was found, for his remains. She stumbles across a naked woman’s body.
Evan is a detective and is investigating two young women who have been murdered. He also catches a case where a man has been shot and killed. He was the searcher who found Rowan. Evan believes all the cases are related and the connection is Rowan. Can he catch the killer before someone else dies?
OMG! Best book I’ve read!!! It will keep you on the edge of your seat. Suspense. Action. I believe this is my favorite book my Ms. Elliot. Can be read alone and no cliffhanger.
* Voluntarily read and reviewed this for NetGalley *
Rowan and her brother, five and seven years old, were kidnapped along with their babysitter. The babysitter was killed and the siblings were held in the woods, for weeks. They are freed but Rowan has a broken leg and Malcolm, her brother, hides her and goes for help. A search and rescue dog finds her after several days but her brother is never found. Twenty five years later, Rowan and her dog Thor are search and rescue now. She is the best and every year on her brothers birthday she searches where she was found, for his remains. She stumbles across a naked woman’s body.
Evan is a detective and is investigating two young women who have been murdered. He also catches a case where a man has been shot and killed. He was the searcher who found Rowan. Evan believes all the cases are related and the connection is Rowan. Can he catch the killer before someone else dies?
OMG! Best book I’ve read!!! It will keep you on the edge of your seat. Suspense. Action. I believe this is my favorite book my Ms. Elliot. Can be read alone and no cliffhanger.
* Voluntarily read and reviewed this for NetGalley *
May 30, 2023
Kendra Elliot does it again. Her book "The First Death" is a gripping thriller that grabs you from the first page and doesn't let you go until the last page. This story was an amazing and kept you guessing through the whole book.
Rowan and her brother were kidnapped when they were younger. They escaped or so they thought. Rowan was rescued and her brother was dead. Rowan never gave up hope that she would find her brother and would search for him every year. Evan is a police deputy that is looking at the murders of three different girls and a murdered man. As Evan digs deeper into the deaths, Rowan keeps coming up. As the cases move on Evan realizes that he just might feel something more for Rowan.
This story is well written and has great character development. 10/10 would recommend.
Rowan and her brother were kidnapped when they were younger. They escaped or so they thought. Rowan was rescued and her brother was dead. Rowan never gave up hope that she would find her brother and would search for him every year. Evan is a police deputy that is looking at the murders of three different girls and a murdered man. As Evan digs deeper into the deaths, Rowan keeps coming up. As the cases move on Evan realizes that he just might feel something more for Rowan.
This story is well written and has great character development. 10/10 would recommend.
August 8, 2023
Entertaining, if not gripping story about Rowan, who was kidnapped as a child, along with her brother Malcolm and babysitter. Malcolm was killed and buried, while Rowan was found alive, albeit in bad shape.
The highlight for me was Thor. More books should have a Thor in them! I also rather warmed to Rowan and Evan. I haven't read any of the other books (apparently this is the fourth book) but apparently, you don't need to follow on. While I enjoyed this, it dragged a bit in parts and I do feel the characters could have been a bit more fleshed out, and the story tightened up and polished a bit.
A word to the wise, if child abuse bothers you, consider skipping this.
A solid 2-and-a-half-star rounded up to 3 read.
The highlight for me was Thor. More books should have a Thor in them! I also rather warmed to Rowan and Evan. I haven't read any of the other books (apparently this is the fourth book) but apparently, you don't need to follow on. While I enjoyed this, it dragged a bit in parts and I do feel the characters could have been a bit more fleshed out, and the story tightened up and polished a bit.
A word to the wise, if child abuse bothers you, consider skipping this.
A solid 2-and-a-half-star rounded up to 3 read.
January 17, 2023
Kendra Elliot is an amazing author. I have about 7 of her books in my library at the moment. I loved them all. When I got the chance to review this one I immediately took it. I loved this book. The plot was amazing. I didn’t see it coming at all. I couldn’t put it down and the character were written very well. I have no complaints whatsoever about this book.
July 23, 2025
Fantastic story!
I was both terrified and unable to put down the book because I didn't know what would happen but had to know. I was worried for Malcolm and Rowan. I really liked their characters and Evan's as well. I like being to know what they are thinking and feeling, and how Kendra tells the story from several different characters' view point throughout the story.
I was both terrified and unable to put down the book because I didn't know what would happen but had to know. I was worried for Malcolm and Rowan. I really liked their characters and Evan's as well. I like being to know what they are thinking and feeling, and how Kendra tells the story from several different characters' view point throughout the story.
June 18, 2023
Warning: disturbing child abuse. Lots of intense twists and turns. I didn't see that end coming. Despite difficult subject matter, it was an excellent book.
June 18, 2023
3.0 stars at best. This book just didn't work for me. I've really liked this series up until this book.
Disappointed this one just didn't measure up to this authors usual standards.
Two children ages 5 and 7 yrs (brother/sister) kidnapped 25 years prior. Every few chapters this story flashes back to that time to tell of the abuse they suffered at the hands of their kidnapper. One chapter was more than plenty of that for me. Point made. I didn't need to read anymore of that (who does?) so I just skipped those chapters. Rowen, the 5 yr old, was rescued after she and her brother escape. Her brother, Malcom, was never found.
Flash forward to the present, Rowan is part of the search & rescue team with her dog, Thor. Several murders happen. Evan is the county detective sent to investigate. Both Rowan/Evan have been featured in past Mercy Kilpatrick books (Mercy's books were a favorite). There's some attraction between the two but it's pretty luke warm and as Evan's character felt rather flat, this wasn't anything necessary to add to the story.
I got bored for the most part and just wanted it to be over. Lingered on to long. The only excitement comes near the very end when the cases all finally get resolved.
So now, just waiting on the next Mercy Kilpatrick book. Know I'll enjoy that one.
Disappointed this one just didn't measure up to this authors usual standards.
Two children ages 5 and 7 yrs (brother/sister) kidnapped 25 years prior. Every few chapters this story flashes back to that time to tell of the abuse they suffered at the hands of their kidnapper. One chapter was more than plenty of that for me. Point made. I didn't need to read anymore of that (who does?) so I just skipped those chapters. Rowen, the 5 yr old, was rescued after she and her brother escape. Her brother, Malcom, was never found.
Flash forward to the present, Rowan is part of the search & rescue team with her dog, Thor. Several murders happen. Evan is the county detective sent to investigate. Both Rowan/Evan have been featured in past Mercy Kilpatrick books (Mercy's books were a favorite). There's some attraction between the two but it's pretty luke warm and as Evan's character felt rather flat, this wasn't anything necessary to add to the story.
I got bored for the most part and just wanted it to be over. Lingered on to long. The only excitement comes near the very end when the cases all finally get resolved.
So now, just waiting on the next Mercy Kilpatrick book. Know I'll enjoy that one.
December 6, 2024
The First Death by Kendra Elliot is one of the best thrillers I've read this year! Yes, it came out in 2023 and I'm just reading it now to prepare for the next book in the series. I didn't realize I had missed it last year and am so glad I decided to read it! What a fantastic book! You will be instantly engrossed in The First Death and unable to put it down. I started it one evening and finished it the next day. That's how good it is! Rowan Wolff is a search and rescue expert working alongside her partner, Thor. Thor is a German shepherd specially trained to locate missing people based on scent. Together they have found many missing people over the years. This line of work is personal to Rowan as she and her brother were kidnapped and tortured when they were 5 and 7 years old. Rowan was lucky to escape with Malcolm, but she was the only one found by a search and rescue worker in the woods. Her brother, Malcolm, 7 years old was never found. When they arrested the person responsible years later, he said that Malcolm was dead and that he was buried somewhere in the woods. Rowan still lives with the memories and sacrifices that Malcolm made to protect her.
Detective Evan Bolton is working a string of murders of young women that are strangled and found naked in the woods. He's afraid there's a serial killer at work and Rowan is called in with Thor on some of the cases. Evan doesn't know about Rowan's past. He knows she limps, but doesn't know it's because her kidnapper broke her leg by dropping a huge rock on it when she was 5. She's had 4 surgeries since then and is able to walk on the weakened leg with a limp. It used to bother her, but she has grown to accept she's lucky to be out doing what she loves limp or no limp! When bones are found near where Rowan was found she is terrified and relieved that maybe they've finally found Malcolm. The bones turn out to be 2 women and a young boy. They can't be sure if it's Malcolm or not as his dental records were from when he was 7. Rowan still looks for any sign of a grave or bones every year on Malcolm's birthday. It's been 25 years since they were taken.
Evan notices that all of the victims are somehow related to Rowan. How can this be? Who could be doing this? When the person who rescued Rowan ends up dead things hit too close to home. Rowan is devastated as her mentor in search and rescue was the man who found her. He trained her to be the SAR professional that she is today. She is devastated as are all of his friends, family, and SAR workers. Rowan and Evan must work together to figure out who is doing this before someone else close to home is killed. Will they be able to solve this difficult case before it's too late? This book is gripping, suspenseful, and keeps you on the edge of your seat throughout. I rate The First Death 5 stars with my very highest recommendation. I did shed some tears towards the end and can't wait for the next book in the series! Rowan, Evan, and Thor make a great team and I hope to read many more books featuring them. I'd like to thank NetGalley and Montlake Publishing for an advanced copy of The First Death in exchange for a fair review. #TheFirstDeath
Detective Evan Bolton is working a string of murders of young women that are strangled and found naked in the woods. He's afraid there's a serial killer at work and Rowan is called in with Thor on some of the cases. Evan doesn't know about Rowan's past. He knows she limps, but doesn't know it's because her kidnapper broke her leg by dropping a huge rock on it when she was 5. She's had 4 surgeries since then and is able to walk on the weakened leg with a limp. It used to bother her, but she has grown to accept she's lucky to be out doing what she loves limp or no limp! When bones are found near where Rowan was found she is terrified and relieved that maybe they've finally found Malcolm. The bones turn out to be 2 women and a young boy. They can't be sure if it's Malcolm or not as his dental records were from when he was 7. Rowan still looks for any sign of a grave or bones every year on Malcolm's birthday. It's been 25 years since they were taken.
Evan notices that all of the victims are somehow related to Rowan. How can this be? Who could be doing this? When the person who rescued Rowan ends up dead things hit too close to home. Rowan is devastated as her mentor in search and rescue was the man who found her. He trained her to be the SAR professional that she is today. She is devastated as are all of his friends, family, and SAR workers. Rowan and Evan must work together to figure out who is doing this before someone else close to home is killed. Will they be able to solve this difficult case before it's too late? This book is gripping, suspenseful, and keeps you on the edge of your seat throughout. I rate The First Death 5 stars with my very highest recommendation. I did shed some tears towards the end and can't wait for the next book in the series! Rowan, Evan, and Thor make a great team and I hope to read many more books featuring them. I'd like to thank NetGalley and Montlake Publishing for an advanced copy of The First Death in exchange for a fair review. #TheFirstDeath
June 11, 2023
The First Death by Kendra Elliot is the fourth book in her excellent Columbia River suspense series. I’ve enjoyed this series and the consistent way this author weaves in the characters from previous books as well as her Mercy Kilpatrick series. Her writing is better and better with each new book!
This thriller is the compelling story of a young woman, Rowan, who, at age 5, survived a terrifying kidnapping that also claimed the life of her older brother, Malcolm. Twenty-five years later, a woman is found dead in the woods, and local detective Evan Bolton must find the killer with the help of Rowan and her Search and Rescue (SAR) dog, Thor. Then more bones are unearthed near the murder site, and Bolton is embroiled in a possible serial killer scenario. In a complex police procedural, Bolton’s investigation leads him to some corrupt local cops, more bones and links to murders from years before, and puzzling cover-ups involving Rowan’s mentor Ken, her brother, and an evil “family” of sadists. Some of the scenes were difficult to read, as they involve brutality against children. But the author always imbues much humanity in her characters and stories, which blunt some of the harsh reality. The present and past timelines are beautifully plotted and make this a compelling, fast-paced suspense thriller.
While part of a series, this book can definitely be enjoyed as a stand-alone.
I can’t wait for the next entry in the Columbia River series!
Thank you to Montlake and NetGalley for the ARC. This is my honest review.
This thriller is the compelling story of a young woman, Rowan, who, at age 5, survived a terrifying kidnapping that also claimed the life of her older brother, Malcolm. Twenty-five years later, a woman is found dead in the woods, and local detective Evan Bolton must find the killer with the help of Rowan and her Search and Rescue (SAR) dog, Thor. Then more bones are unearthed near the murder site, and Bolton is embroiled in a possible serial killer scenario. In a complex police procedural, Bolton’s investigation leads him to some corrupt local cops, more bones and links to murders from years before, and puzzling cover-ups involving Rowan’s mentor Ken, her brother, and an evil “family” of sadists. Some of the scenes were difficult to read, as they involve brutality against children. But the author always imbues much humanity in her characters and stories, which blunt some of the harsh reality. The present and past timelines are beautifully plotted and make this a compelling, fast-paced suspense thriller.
While part of a series, this book can definitely be enjoyed as a stand-alone.
I can’t wait for the next entry in the Columbia River series!
Thank you to Montlake and NetGalley for the ARC. This is my honest review.
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