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National Parks Mystery #2
An Unforgiving Place
In one of the country’s remotest corners, Investigative Services Bureau agent Felicity Harland squares off against a bizarre cult with the deadliest of motives in this thrilling outdoor adventure for fans of Scott Graham and Nevada Barr.
While enjoying a rare weekend off, Felicity Harland, agent with the National Parks Investigative Services Bureau, learns that her cousin, Kelsey, has gone missing after a spontaneous trip to Alaska. Felicity recruits her partner, ex-Navy SEAL Hux Huxley, to aid in the search for Kelsey, but their investigation soon takes a sinister turn.
It begins with the mysterious deaths of a couple on the Koyukuk River in the distant Arctic. Then, they begin hearing ominous reports of a bizarre fertility cult known as the “Kindred of the North,” living off the land in the Gates of the Arctic, the remotest national park in the United States. Could the Kindred have recruited Kelsey to join them? As they venture undercover to penetrate the cult, they find themselves playing a dangerous game—not just with a potentially murderous group of strangers, but also with each other.
But to get to the deadly truth about the Kindred of the North and their charismatic leader, Felicity and Hux must journey to Mount Doonerak, the park’s highest peak—a forbidding climb that will put their mettle, and their friendship, to the ultimate test.
While enjoying a rare weekend off, Felicity Harland, agent with the National Parks Investigative Services Bureau, learns that her cousin, Kelsey, has gone missing after a spontaneous trip to Alaska. Felicity recruits her partner, ex-Navy SEAL Hux Huxley, to aid in the search for Kelsey, but their investigation soon takes a sinister turn.
It begins with the mysterious deaths of a couple on the Koyukuk River in the distant Arctic. Then, they begin hearing ominous reports of a bizarre fertility cult known as the “Kindred of the North,” living off the land in the Gates of the Arctic, the remotest national park in the United States. Could the Kindred have recruited Kelsey to join them? As they venture undercover to penetrate the cult, they find themselves playing a dangerous game—not just with a potentially murderous group of strangers, but also with each other.
But to get to the deadly truth about the Kindred of the North and their charismatic leader, Felicity and Hux must journey to Mount Doonerak, the park’s highest peak—a forbidding climb that will put their mettle, and their friendship, to the ultimate test.
288 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 8, 2022
115 people are currently reading
3286 people want to read
About the author
Claire Kells
5 books462 followersClaire Kells is an author, a physician, and an avid open-water swimmer. She's rather obsessed with the great outdoors, even though she's scared to walk in the woods at night. Aside from wilderness adventures, her favorite things to write about are twisty plots, flawed characters, and romantic tension. She lives in New Jersey with her family.
Book #4 in the National Park series will be available in early 2027.
Book #4 in the National Park series will be available in early 2027.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 209 reviews
December 3, 2023
An Unforgiving Place: A National Parks Mystery, Book 2
by Claire Kells, narrated by Cady Zuckerman
Handsome hunky Hux Huxley is back! The cool, calm, got it all together, great looking, ex-Navy SEAL is assisting Investigative Services Bureau agent Felicity Harland, again. The two get along great but Felicity can't help thinking about Hux more than she would like to be doing. It's hard though, they work together so closely and get into some body smushing together situations. But this "relationship" is such a slow burn that it will probably be book 50 before they go out on a "date" date.
When a couple is reported missing in remote Alaska, a couple that had no skills or business being so far from civilization, Felicity and Hux journey to Mount Doonerak, in Gates of the Arctic, the remotest national park in the United States. There are rumors of a strange fertility cult, “Kindred of the North", and couples struggling with male infertility may be making the dangerous trek to this area for help with their childless status. Why anyone would think this is a good idea is beyond me. There are a lot easier, cleaner, bear-less places to go for help, places with showers and beds and central AC and heat.
Soon two bodies are found on the Koyukuk River and those bodies could be the missing couple. Then Felicity and Hux get to meet the reclusive and constantly on the move cult so they have to play a happily married couple. There seems to be more than one person in this group with a screw or two loose. It's hard to figure out who knows what with all the secretiveness and aggression most of the group are showing. Hux does attract attention though!
The banter between Felicity and Hux is always casual fun and it's obvious the two get along very well. But they are professionals and stick to their job. I couldn't help thinking that they should back off though, maybe not throw themselves into a boiling pot of danger the way they do. There is a whole lot of risk with this situation. If you want to turn yourself off from camping in Alaska, this is your story!
Pub Nov 8, 2022
by Claire Kells, narrated by Cady Zuckerman
Handsome hunky Hux Huxley is back! The cool, calm, got it all together, great looking, ex-Navy SEAL is assisting Investigative Services Bureau agent Felicity Harland, again. The two get along great but Felicity can't help thinking about Hux more than she would like to be doing. It's hard though, they work together so closely and get into some body smushing together situations. But this "relationship" is such a slow burn that it will probably be book 50 before they go out on a "date" date.
When a couple is reported missing in remote Alaska, a couple that had no skills or business being so far from civilization, Felicity and Hux journey to Mount Doonerak, in Gates of the Arctic, the remotest national park in the United States. There are rumors of a strange fertility cult, “Kindred of the North", and couples struggling with male infertility may be making the dangerous trek to this area for help with their childless status. Why anyone would think this is a good idea is beyond me. There are a lot easier, cleaner, bear-less places to go for help, places with showers and beds and central AC and heat.
Soon two bodies are found on the Koyukuk River and those bodies could be the missing couple. Then Felicity and Hux get to meet the reclusive and constantly on the move cult so they have to play a happily married couple. There seems to be more than one person in this group with a screw or two loose. It's hard to figure out who knows what with all the secretiveness and aggression most of the group are showing. Hux does attract attention though!
The banter between Felicity and Hux is always casual fun and it's obvious the two get along very well. But they are professionals and stick to their job. I couldn't help thinking that they should back off though, maybe not throw themselves into a boiling pot of danger the way they do. There is a whole lot of risk with this situation. If you want to turn yourself off from camping in Alaska, this is your story!
Pub Nov 8, 2022
May 15, 2022
Thank you Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book before publication. IYKYK, my reviews are always honest.
This is book #2 in the series but it works as a standalone
Writing: 4/5 tbh stayed in its lane | Plot: 4/5 | Ending: 4/5
THE PLOT
Investigative Service Bureau and former FBI agent Felicity Harland and her partner-in-training Hux are called the Alaska's most remote corner to investigate the suspicious death of a couple. Why were they there? And why did someone want them dead?
MY OPINION
Ok, I'll be honest. My rating may be a little inflated. BUT, I had such good vibes while reading this, I didn't want 3 stars to dissuade any readers. So I will be explicitly clear: IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A CUTE, COZY MYSTERY TO READ OUTSIDE ON A BEAUTIFUL SPRING DAY, YOU WILL ENJOY THIS. IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A COMPLEX, MULTI-LAYERED LITERARY MASTERPIECE OR SOMETHING ON PAR WITH ANGELA MARSONS' BOOKS, THIS WILL BE MEH. However, I don't think you can possibly have any bad feelings about Harland, Hux, and the world's goodest dog, Ollie.
This book is Honda Civic reliable. It doesn't try to do too much or be too much. It stays the course: wholesome agents trying to do what's right and solve crimes. Harland and Hux are loveable characters free of the typical "chip on your shoulder" law enforcement stereotype. All I want in the third book is for them to kiss. Fk that archeologist Hux might or might not be seeing. I'm team Huxland. Yep, even gave them a nickname.
I really enjoyed the setting of this book as well. It was cool to traverse through Alaska and battle all the elements while sitting on my lazy ass LOL. I even learned some interesting stuff about wildlife, ISB, and surviving in the wilderness.
The ending was solid. It wasn't OTT and it wasn't too conveniently wrapped up. Book #3 is set up nicely. The author also did a great job casting suspicion on a variety of characters... I even doubted myself a couple of times while reading. Minimal closed caption ass writing, a lil humour here and there, short chapters, and a steady flow of action... YAY!!
All in all... GOOD, WHOLESOME VIBES!!!! I'll repeat myself: this is a CUTE and COZY mystery. If you pick up this book with that in mind, I'm sure you'll enjoy it.
PROS AND CONS
Pros: loved the setting and scenery descriptions, low on closed caption writing, stayed in its lane and didn't try to be too "gritty" or "deep", wholesome vibes all around, cute "budding" romance between Huxland (Harland + Hux hehe), solid ending
Cons: YES you need to suspend your disbelief a little bit and just be Helen Keller to a couple of plot holes but it didn't impact my enjoyment of the book tbh
This is book #2 in the series but it works as a standalone
Writing: 4/5 tbh stayed in its lane | Plot: 4/5 | Ending: 4/5
THE PLOT
Investigative Service Bureau and former FBI agent Felicity Harland and her partner-in-training Hux are called the Alaska's most remote corner to investigate the suspicious death of a couple. Why were they there? And why did someone want them dead?
MY OPINION
Ok, I'll be honest. My rating may be a little inflated. BUT, I had such good vibes while reading this, I didn't want 3 stars to dissuade any readers. So I will be explicitly clear: IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A CUTE, COZY MYSTERY TO READ OUTSIDE ON A BEAUTIFUL SPRING DAY, YOU WILL ENJOY THIS. IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A COMPLEX, MULTI-LAYERED LITERARY MASTERPIECE OR SOMETHING ON PAR WITH ANGELA MARSONS' BOOKS, THIS WILL BE MEH. However, I don't think you can possibly have any bad feelings about Harland, Hux, and the world's goodest dog, Ollie.
This book is Honda Civic reliable. It doesn't try to do too much or be too much. It stays the course: wholesome agents trying to do what's right and solve crimes. Harland and Hux are loveable characters free of the typical "chip on your shoulder" law enforcement stereotype. All I want in the third book is for them to kiss. Fk that archeologist Hux might or might not be seeing. I'm team Huxland. Yep, even gave them a nickname.
I really enjoyed the setting of this book as well. It was cool to traverse through Alaska and battle all the elements while sitting on my lazy ass LOL. I even learned some interesting stuff about wildlife, ISB, and surviving in the wilderness.
The ending was solid. It wasn't OTT and it wasn't too conveniently wrapped up. Book #3 is set up nicely. The author also did a great job casting suspicion on a variety of characters... I even doubted myself a couple of times while reading. Minimal closed caption ass writing, a lil humour here and there, short chapters, and a steady flow of action... YAY!!
All in all... GOOD, WHOLESOME VIBES!!!! I'll repeat myself: this is a CUTE and COZY mystery. If you pick up this book with that in mind, I'm sure you'll enjoy it.
PROS AND CONS
Pros: loved the setting and scenery descriptions, low on closed caption writing, stayed in its lane and didn't try to be too "gritty" or "deep", wholesome vibes all around, cute "budding" romance between Huxland (Harland + Hux hehe), solid ending
Cons: YES you need to suspend your disbelief a little bit and just be Helen Keller to a couple of plot holes but it didn't impact my enjoyment of the book tbh
October 20, 2023
An Unforgiving Place
by Claire Kells brings nature, adventure, and suspense to a well-written and dramatic crime thriller largely set in Gates of the Artic National Park near Bettles, Alaska. Felicity Harland is a former FBI agent who left the agency after a personal tragedy and a major injury. She is now a special agent for the Investigative Services Bureau, the investigative arm of the National Park Service. Her partner, Ferinand “Hux” Huxley, is still in training.
Harland gets a call while on vacation that she and Hux are needed at the park. The local chief ranger, Brinegar, has asked for their help. Two bodies have been found. While there, they also hear about a group or cult that is in the park. Are the two related or not?
Harland likes the thrill of the chase and the allure of the unknown. She enjoys her nomadic lifestyle and specializes in wilderness crimes. Hux is an ex-Navy SEAL. He’s good natured, has good instincts, and is a master tracker. Both main characters are likeable, love the outdoors, and are intent on solving crimes. Her dog, Ollie, adds another dimension to the story.
This novel has an incredible setting, wonderful characters, and the narrative is well-plotted. The plot is suspenseful, fresh, complex, and entertaining. The tension, stakes, and action build up to an exciting ending that is not over-the-top. Another wonderful aspect was the world-building. The author did a fantastic job of making the reader feel as though they were in Gates of the Artic National Park with Harland and Hux. This strong sense of place was essential and elevated the reading experience for me. There were a couple of instances related to gear and supplies that weren’t consistent and had me asking questions about a couple of missing scenes. Despite this, the author kept me entertained throughout. Her ability to combine strong characters and complex plots with excellent pacing kept me fully engaged.
Overall, this was well-written, captivating, and thought-provoking. I enjoyed unraveling the mystery along with Harland and Hux. I was hooked immediately in the first chapter and the pages kept turning. I recommend this book to those that enjoy mysteries and investigations in the great outdoors with likeable characters. It’s the second book in the National Parks Mystery series. I recommend reading them in order.
I purchased a copy of this novel. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date was November 08, 2022.
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My 4.31 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
Harland gets a call while on vacation that she and Hux are needed at the park. The local chief ranger, Brinegar, has asked for their help. Two bodies have been found. While there, they also hear about a group or cult that is in the park. Are the two related or not?
Harland likes the thrill of the chase and the allure of the unknown. She enjoys her nomadic lifestyle and specializes in wilderness crimes. Hux is an ex-Navy SEAL. He’s good natured, has good instincts, and is a master tracker. Both main characters are likeable, love the outdoors, and are intent on solving crimes. Her dog, Ollie, adds another dimension to the story.
This novel has an incredible setting, wonderful characters, and the narrative is well-plotted. The plot is suspenseful, fresh, complex, and entertaining. The tension, stakes, and action build up to an exciting ending that is not over-the-top. Another wonderful aspect was the world-building. The author did a fantastic job of making the reader feel as though they were in Gates of the Artic National Park with Harland and Hux. This strong sense of place was essential and elevated the reading experience for me. There were a couple of instances related to gear and supplies that weren’t consistent and had me asking questions about a couple of missing scenes. Despite this, the author kept me entertained throughout. Her ability to combine strong characters and complex plots with excellent pacing kept me fully engaged.
Overall, this was well-written, captivating, and thought-provoking. I enjoyed unraveling the mystery along with Harland and Hux. I was hooked immediately in the first chapter and the pages kept turning. I recommend this book to those that enjoy mysteries and investigations in the great outdoors with likeable characters. It’s the second book in the National Parks Mystery series. I recommend reading them in order.
I purchased a copy of this novel. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date was November 08, 2022.
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My 4.31 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
June 1, 2023
Ooooooh! Things just got VERY, VERY INTERESTING!
Lots of emotional undercurrents between Felicity and Hux, but these two professionals seem to outdo each other in the professional stoicism category: I loved how excruciatingly CLOSE they came sometimes to revealing their true feelings for one another. So good!
Claire Kells can be such a tease! (Loved it!)
This was literally a wild and terror filled ride in the remotest reaches of Alaska! Stalker bears, fertility cults, and a prima donna millionairess who couldn't take no for an answer- and she had set her sights on MY HUX!!! Grrrrrr!
But I never doubted Felicity Harland's ability to set that entitled camper in her place!
The mystery was top notch, as were the investigative techniques - as usual! During the investigation into the suspicious deaths of two of the fertility cult members, Felicity has her work cut out for her when her SAT phone AND her glock are stolen.
To say that this second installment - of what is going to be a series of adventures for Hux and Felicity - was "action-packed" would be a massive understatement. No sooner did you catch your breath from one harrowing misadventure, but then you were almost immediately plunged back into unforeseen mayhem or danger.
I tell you, I was standing - transfixed! - in the middle of a public gym - totally riveted while I read those terrifying passages involving the stalker bear and poor, besieged Felicity.
I was thoroughly entertained! All the stars! My thanks to the author, Claire Kells, her publisher, Penguin Random House, and NetGalley for an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review. Loved it and can't wait for the next installment - especially after that tantalizing ending!!
Lots of emotional undercurrents between Felicity and Hux, but these two professionals seem to outdo each other in the professional stoicism category: I loved how excruciatingly CLOSE they came sometimes to revealing their true feelings for one another. So good!
Claire Kells can be such a tease! (Loved it!)
This was literally a wild and terror filled ride in the remotest reaches of Alaska! Stalker bears, fertility cults, and a prima donna millionairess who couldn't take no for an answer- and she had set her sights on MY HUX!!! Grrrrrr!
But I never doubted Felicity Harland's ability to set that entitled camper in her place!
The mystery was top notch, as were the investigative techniques - as usual! During the investigation into the suspicious deaths of two of the fertility cult members, Felicity has her work cut out for her when her SAT phone AND her glock are stolen.
To say that this second installment - of what is going to be a series of adventures for Hux and Felicity - was "action-packed" would be a massive understatement. No sooner did you catch your breath from one harrowing misadventure, but then you were almost immediately plunged back into unforeseen mayhem or danger.
I tell you, I was standing - transfixed! - in the middle of a public gym - totally riveted while I read those terrifying passages involving the stalker bear and poor, besieged Felicity.
I was thoroughly entertained! All the stars! My thanks to the author, Claire Kells, her publisher, Penguin Random House, and NetGalley for an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review. Loved it and can't wait for the next installment - especially after that tantalizing ending!!
July 24, 2024
2.5 Stars for An Unforgiving Place: National Park Mystery, Book 2 (audiobook) by Claire Kells read by Cady Zuckerman.
I’m trying to like this series. This story is set in one of the most beautiful places on earth. I can picture it, I got to go camping near where this book takes place. But there’s never any description of the scenery, I just don’t understand. And the whole premise of the story is bizarre. Surely there’s a more believable way to get investigators into the mountains. And the narrator mispronounced a firearm term a few times and that just pulls me out of the story. I don’t know if I’ll bother with the next book in the series.
I’m trying to like this series. This story is set in one of the most beautiful places on earth. I can picture it, I got to go camping near where this book takes place. But there’s never any description of the scenery, I just don’t understand. And the whole premise of the story is bizarre. Surely there’s a more believable way to get investigators into the mountains. And the narrator mispronounced a firearm term a few times and that just pulls me out of the story. I don’t know if I’ll bother with the next book in the series.
May 21, 2024
I really enjoyed this book despite some misgivings about some plot details. The Alaskan wilderness is very much a major part of this story, which was a plus for me. The isolation and the extreme riskiness of being out there caused me angst, even without murders and other events. The plot tension was relentless, requiring me to take breaks regularly. Close the book, do something calming, breathe.
Now for the niggles that bothered me. First was the notion of a fertility cult based in Alaska. Seriously, if you're running a “Let me impregnate your wife" business, wouldn't it make sense to be closer to population centres? How many people can afford to fly to Alaska and rent a bunch of gear? I suppose if you live in the back of beyond and spend a lot of time camping in the wilderness with your clients, maybe you don't need gobs of money. Generally, however, if you're running a scam you're very into making as much cash as you possibly can.
Okay, second negative: I'm getting very mixed signals about Felicity and Hux's relationship. Felicity's husband is missing, albeit for a long time. She assumes Kevin is dead but isn't absolutely sure. Also, she's quite convinced that Hux is seeing someone, an anthropologist or archaeologist. She's highly aware that she's Hux's senior officer and of the regulations that forbid romantic relationships between staff. And yet she seems to be catching feelings for him. I feel uneasy about this and much prefer their strictly friendly and professional bond in the first book. I do appreciate that Felicity is trying to resist the pull and I hope that Kells doesn't take us there simply to have a romantic element to the series. Not every mystery requires a romance!
Despite my reservations, I did find the book engaging. I will certainly read the third book when I get the chance.
Now for the niggles that bothered me. First was the notion of a fertility cult based in Alaska. Seriously, if you're running a “Let me impregnate your wife" business, wouldn't it make sense to be closer to population centres? How many people can afford to fly to Alaska and rent a bunch of gear? I suppose if you live in the back of beyond and spend a lot of time camping in the wilderness with your clients, maybe you don't need gobs of money. Generally, however, if you're running a scam you're very into making as much cash as you possibly can.
Okay, second negative: I'm getting very mixed signals about Felicity and Hux's relationship. Felicity's husband is missing, albeit for a long time. She assumes Kevin is dead but isn't absolutely sure. Also, she's quite convinced that Hux is seeing someone, an anthropologist or archaeologist. She's highly aware that she's Hux's senior officer and of the regulations that forbid romantic relationships between staff. And yet she seems to be catching feelings for him. I feel uneasy about this and much prefer their strictly friendly and professional bond in the first book. I do appreciate that Felicity is trying to resist the pull and I hope that Kells doesn't take us there simply to have a romantic element to the series. Not every mystery requires a romance!
Despite my reservations, I did find the book engaging. I will certainly read the third book when I get the chance.
September 20, 2022
An Unforgiving Place, book #2 in the National Parks Mystery by Claire Kells is a fantastic addition to the series after that spectacular first book Vanishing Edge where I fell head over heels in love with the charming pair of Felicity Harland and the oozing sexiness hot guy, Ferdinand “Hux” Huxley, and the lovable dog Ollie.
This time around, Claire Kells is taking us to the rugged and unforgiving Alaskan terrain where the adventure begins with a couple who has been found dead in unusual circumstances. Harland and Hux team up once again for the investigation following in the footsteps of a cult leader specializing in luring couples with infertility crises particularly focused on cases where men have issues.
The mystery element of the story is not out of the world, many seasoned readers can guess the twists that are waiting to be revealed but the thrill is not in the discovery of the murderer but rather the journey of traversing the inhospitable and craggy terrains of the Gates of the Arctic and the subtle attraction between Hux and Harland which they hide behind their professional exterior and that has been effectively captured by the author.
I am wondering if Claire Kells have planned adventure thrillers across all national parks in the US, if yes, I will be the first in line to read them all as Hux and Ollie have carved a way into my heart and for the pure adrenaline rush in the atmosphere created by the author. An Unforgiving Place is good to be read as a stand-alone. Still, for a few references to incidents in book 1, readers are not going to miss much though to really grasp the relationship dynamics between Harland and Hux< I would strongly advise you to read them in order.
I can’t wait for the next national parks adventure.
4.5 thrilling stars
Many thanks to Net Galley, Crooked Lane Books, and the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
This review is published in my blog Rain'n'Books, ##Goodreads, ##Amazon India, ##Book Bub, ##Medium.com, ##Facebook, ##Twitter.
This time around, Claire Kells is taking us to the rugged and unforgiving Alaskan terrain where the adventure begins with a couple who has been found dead in unusual circumstances. Harland and Hux team up once again for the investigation following in the footsteps of a cult leader specializing in luring couples with infertility crises particularly focused on cases where men have issues.
The mystery element of the story is not out of the world, many seasoned readers can guess the twists that are waiting to be revealed but the thrill is not in the discovery of the murderer but rather the journey of traversing the inhospitable and craggy terrains of the Gates of the Arctic and the subtle attraction between Hux and Harland which they hide behind their professional exterior and that has been effectively captured by the author.
I am wondering if Claire Kells have planned adventure thrillers across all national parks in the US, if yes, I will be the first in line to read them all as Hux and Ollie have carved a way into my heart and for the pure adrenaline rush in the atmosphere created by the author. An Unforgiving Place is good to be read as a stand-alone. Still, for a few references to incidents in book 1, readers are not going to miss much though to really grasp the relationship dynamics between Harland and Hux< I would strongly advise you to read them in order.
I can’t wait for the next national parks adventure.
4.5 thrilling stars
Many thanks to Net Galley, Crooked Lane Books, and the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
This review is published in my blog Rain'n'Books, ##Goodreads, ##Amazon India, ##Book Bub, ##Medium.com, ##Facebook, ##Twitter.
April 4, 2023
I was trying to find new stories that were both mysteries and 'green-reads' similar to Alice Henderson's Alex Carter series. When I read An Unforgiving Place took place in Alaska in a national park with a suspicious murder and a gathering of odd characters, I was hooked.
Except the main characters felt out of place. I soon learned Felicity Harland not only had a missing husband, but also a rod in her back from injuries in Australia. I found it hard to believe she would be allowed to work as a Special Agent roaming the outdoors looking for a killer rather than working at a desk. She also kept her lust in place for her partner, Hux Huxley. He referred to her at all times as boss or Harland and, as far as she knew, was actively dating someone else. I never felt chemistry between the two, just some guilty thoughts.
The plot involving married couples desperate for a baby was a bit strange, too. Few things meshed. There was a lack of cohesiveness. I didn't understand why Felicity
Thank you to NetGalley, Claire Kells and Crooked Lande Books for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
Except the main characters felt out of place. I soon learned Felicity Harland not only had a missing husband, but also a rod in her back from injuries in Australia. I found it hard to believe she would be allowed to work as a Special Agent roaming the outdoors looking for a killer rather than working at a desk. She also kept her lust in place for her partner, Hux Huxley. He referred to her at all times as boss or Harland and, as far as she knew, was actively dating someone else. I never felt chemistry between the two, just some guilty thoughts.
The plot involving married couples desperate for a baby was a bit strange, too. Few things meshed. There was a lack of cohesiveness. I didn't understand why Felicity
Thank you to NetGalley, Claire Kells and Crooked Lande Books for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
February 18, 2023
Genres: Crime/Mystery
I struggled with this one. I read the first book in this series and it was around 3 stars. So with that I thought I'd like this one too. But no.
First off, if the setting is summer time in Alaska and you're close to the arctic circle...it does NOT get dark. So that whole scene with the MC running for her life and stumbling over things in the wooded wilderness because "it was dark" was a big fat disappointment.
Add to that the many plot holes, the weird ending, the MCs who are walking perfection with little dimension, the occasional lust moments...all combined....this one didn't work for me. So unfortunately 1 star.
I struggled with this one. I read the first book in this series and it was around 3 stars. So with that I thought I'd like this one too. But no.
First off, if the setting is summer time in Alaska and you're close to the arctic circle...it does NOT get dark. So that whole scene with the MC running for her life and stumbling over things in the wooded wilderness because "it was dark" was a big fat disappointment.
Add to that the many plot holes, the weird ending, the MCs who are walking perfection with little dimension, the occasional lust moments...all combined....this one didn't work for me. So unfortunately 1 star.
July 29, 2025
I like this series because of the national park setting and good mix of mystery and romance. There are inconsistencies and editorial issues but moderately entertaining especially on a hiking trip.
February 3, 2024
Well, THAT was disappointing. I had high hopes for this series after reading book #1 set in Sequoia National Park and was really looking forward to this book set in the remote Alaskan wilderness of Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve. But this book has quite a few deficits. To name just a few:
Perhaps this book was rushed through the publishing process because of the success of the first book. I do like these characters and love the concept of mysteries set in different national parks. I hold out hope that the third book in the series will return to the standard of quality seen in the first book. If not, I’ll be done.
* The plot is as loosey-goosey as a bowlful of cubed Jello.
* If this book were a film, I’d say it needed a continuity editor. Big gaps or inconsistencies occur several times, especially in the section where Harland & Huxley interact with characters belonging to the Reynolds group that they encounter in a shared campsite.
* Editing, people!! Example: early in the book, the woman that Hux is currently dating is referrred to as an archaeologist, then many chapters later she’s referred to as an anthropologist, and at the end of the book again she is an archaeologist. Did anybody but the author review this book for consistency before it was published?
* Logic (reality?) walks right out of several scenes along the narrative’s journey: e.g., Reynolds quickly disappears from the wilderness camp, taking all of his stuff with him. We know he has a duffle containing six rifles; a duffle with group cooking gear, food, supplies; and his own tent & wilderness gear. What human (let alone a middle-aged one) can walk away with all this heavy gear alone and leave no trace behind?
Perhaps this book was rushed through the publishing process because of the success of the first book. I do like these characters and love the concept of mysteries set in different national parks. I hold out hope that the third book in the series will return to the standard of quality seen in the first book. If not, I’ll be done.
June 5, 2023
Felicity Harland is back, this time in Alaska. Bodies have been found, and it's up to Felicity and her partner Hux to figure out whether they're two missing hikers—and just how suspicious their deaths were.
This series is proving to be a heap of fun, with a different national park in every book so far. I'd never heard of the Investigative Services Branch, which Harland works for, but it sounds like—if you're going to do government work—something of a dream job. Kells is also proving to do an excellent job of keeping the mystery going to the end, with clues left in but also plenty of red herrings; by the end of this one, I'd narrowed the suspects down somewhat but was still kept guessing until the reveal. (I will say that Harland and Hux's choice of undercover identity is a bit silly—if you're a muscle-bound man who radiates confidence, don't pick a meek insurance salesman as your alter ego; make him a personal trainer or something to explain the macho-ness while getting people to underestimate him. Here's hoping they learn for next time!)
Two quibbles for book two: first, Felicity's back pain in book two is a wildly different creature from book one. In book one, she was barely functioning in the wild; now, it's written off as barely backstory because she...has a better pack? I guess? I think this was probably a deliberate choice—the author realised that keeping her back pain as so major and chronic was going to get old if the series went anywhere—but I think I would have preferred a slower improvement over a couple of books. And second, .
And now I'm off to go daydream about the woods...
This series is proving to be a heap of fun, with a different national park in every book so far. I'd never heard of the Investigative Services Branch, which Harland works for, but it sounds like—if you're going to do government work—something of a dream job. Kells is also proving to do an excellent job of keeping the mystery going to the end, with clues left in but also plenty of red herrings; by the end of this one, I'd narrowed the suspects down somewhat but was still kept guessing until the reveal. (I will say that Harland and Hux's choice of undercover identity is a bit silly—if you're a muscle-bound man who radiates confidence, don't pick a meek insurance salesman as your alter ego; make him a personal trainer or something to explain the macho-ness while getting people to underestimate him. Here's hoping they learn for next time!)
Two quibbles for book two: first, Felicity's back pain in book two is a wildly different creature from book one. In book one, she was barely functioning in the wild; now, it's written off as barely backstory because she...has a better pack? I guess? I think this was probably a deliberate choice—the author realised that keeping her back pain as so major and chronic was going to get old if the series went anywhere—but I think I would have preferred a slower improvement over a couple of books. And second, .
And now I'm off to go daydream about the woods...
October 3, 2025
2.75. Even so, I will probably read the next one. Audio production and narration issues are better in this one, but still issues. Also, editing. One’s haunches don’t get raised, it is hackles. Also, a gaggle of laughter? Mystery was so so. Too much of the romance wishy-washiness
November 3, 2023
Again 2.5 stars, rounded up to 3. There are annoying inconsistencies in the continuity/ cohesiveness of events. For example, no mention is made of a certain piece of survival gear, but then, when it’s critical, agent Harland has it at hand. This may be simply bad editing. However, the story line also carries along and then, in a matter of a half-page, a sudden change of fortune occurs. Unlike continuity, this is not, in my opinion, the fault of the editing staff.
There is also too much banal sentimentality in the description of Harland’s emerging romantic feelings for her partner, the “dreamy” ex-Navy Seal, Hux.
I have the feeling that the two National Park thrillers (written to date) could be much more satisfying. Perhaps the author will yet hone her craft. There is much good material here and some extraordinary settings that simply beg for a better novel.
There is also too much banal sentimentality in the description of Harland’s emerging romantic feelings for her partner, the “dreamy” ex-Navy Seal, Hux.
I have the feeling that the two National Park thrillers (written to date) could be much more satisfying. Perhaps the author will yet hone her craft. There is much good material here and some extraordinary settings that simply beg for a better novel.
May 8, 2022
ISB Agent Felicity Harland is back on the case with Park Ranger Hux Huxley, this time in Alaska. All set to leave for a long weekend in the lower 48, she gets assigned a missing persons case in the Gates of the Arctic. Finding the bodies is the easy part, trying to track down a self-proclaimed fertility guru, convince everyone that the deaths weren't just a tragic accident, and restrain herself in the presence of her hunky partner is the hard part. I can't wait to see where Felicity's next assignment will take her and Hux. If you like the Anna Pigeon series, give these a try.
Thanks to Crooked Lane Books for access to a digital ARC via NetGalley.
Thanks to Crooked Lane Books for access to a digital ARC via NetGalley.
June 28, 2022
Told in first person, this story follows Felicity Harland, an investigator with the National Parks Services, as she is pulled away from vacation while working on assignment in Denali when two bodies are found in the Gates of the Arctic National Park. Partnered once again with her trusty canine companion, Ollie, and Hux Huxley former Navy SEAL, Felicity ventures into remote wilderness areas in search of answers as to what happened to this couple, speculating on whether they were the victims of an accident or foul play. I still appreciate the setting of this series with the backdrop of the parks and wilderness. The hiking, mystery and adventure aspects of the book were quite enjoyable.
The mystery is filled with a variety of characters you might expect to find in such conditions from remote outfitters to individuals and couples seeking a life off the grid for their own purposes and, oddly enough, couples with fertility issues. I enjoyed the mystery in this second installment of the series. I was pleasantly surprised by a few of the revelations while finding others a bit predictable. I had a few moments of confusion when I thought certain parties had left a scene then suddenly were contributing again, but hopefully those will be fixed in the final draft and one of them was actually a red flag that led me to figuring out whodunnit. I also was a little incredulous that one of the characters was allowed to continue on in a canoe chasing suspects down a river at one point by their supervisor with what turned out to be a broken foot.
Looking forward to the next installment of this series!
Thank you to Netgalley and Crooked Lane Books for the free copy provided for an honest review.
The mystery is filled with a variety of characters you might expect to find in such conditions from remote outfitters to individuals and couples seeking a life off the grid for their own purposes and, oddly enough, couples with fertility issues. I enjoyed the mystery in this second installment of the series. I was pleasantly surprised by a few of the revelations while finding others a bit predictable. I had a few moments of confusion when I thought certain parties had left a scene then suddenly were contributing again, but hopefully those will be fixed in the final draft and one of them was actually a red flag that led me to figuring out whodunnit. I also was a little incredulous that one of the characters was allowed to continue on in a canoe chasing suspects down a river at one point by their supervisor with what turned out to be a broken foot.
Looking forward to the next installment of this series!
Thank you to Netgalley and Crooked Lane Books for the free copy provided for an honest review.
June 27, 2023
2.5 to 3 stars. It’s fine but really annoying at times.
Action packed but a super weird plot involving the Alaskan wilderness and infertility.
The writing isn’t great. It jumps around and gets a little confusing and there is so much time spent on the agent’s crush on her partner is almost painful to witness. So much time is devoted to telling us about how attractive and perfect she finds Hux it gets annoying real fast. Just show us why he’s awesome and stop telling us that he’s good looking. Give them some banter or some kind of legit friendship or just let them bang already.
Of course I’m going to ready book 3 because I got it from Netgalley and I promised to. I only read the first two because of the free book 3.
Action packed but a super weird plot involving the Alaskan wilderness and infertility.
The writing isn’t great. It jumps around and gets a little confusing and there is so much time spent on the agent’s crush on her partner is almost painful to witness. So much time is devoted to telling us about how attractive and perfect she finds Hux it gets annoying real fast. Just show us why he’s awesome and stop telling us that he’s good looking. Give them some banter or some kind of legit friendship or just let them bang already.
Of course I’m going to ready book 3 because I got it from Netgalley and I promised to. I only read the first two because of the free book 3.
December 19, 2022
This installment was good, although a hint chaotic.
Again, there were some edits I was surprised about (ex: she got her gun back but never recovered it or determined who had it).
I loved seeing her w the strength while Hux had to struggle, proving the importance of their partnership.
The ending was a hint confusing. Will certainly seek out another if there is one.
Again, there were some edits I was surprised about (ex: she got her gun back but never recovered it or determined who had it).
I loved seeing her w the strength while Hux had to struggle, proving the importance of their partnership.
The ending was a hint confusing. Will certainly seek out another if there is one.
July 31, 2022
An Unforgiving Place: A National Park Mystery by Claire Kells picks up a few weeks after Vanishing Edge. On assignment in Denali National Park, Investigative Service Branch Special Agent Felicity Harland is sent to the Gates of the Artic National Park to investigate the discovery of two bodies. Search and rescue is active in another part of the park looking for two hikers that have been missing almost a month. Timothy and Kelsey Greer might be the deceased or they might still be alive and lost in the vast wilderness.
Before long Special Agents Felicity Harland and Ferdinand Huxley (who has made the jump to ISB from being a Park Ranger and is being pulled from doing training modules- much to his relief) are at the scene of the two bodies. Unlike in most cases, there has been little involvement by animals. No obvious cause of death and no signs of defensive wounds. It is clear that they are dead, but the signs of what caused it are not clear. There are also clear indications that something strange was going on before they died. One example are the faint marks on the wrists on both bodies that indicate some sort of ligatures were used on them in recent days.
Harland and Huxley are on the case and soon forced to work undercover to ferret out the truth. Humans are one threat. Nature itself is another. Either can kill you dead if you let your guard down.
A worthy and enjoyable sequel to Vanishing Edge, much is going on in this complicated and action filled read. Events and backstory regarding the first book come up here. Quite a lot from book one is referenced, so it is strongly recommended that readers start with Vanishing Edge first. You will enjoy this very good sequel a lot more if you do so.
While the book is currently scheduled to be released on November 8th, I was able to read it now thanks to a digital ARC from Severn House via NetGalley.
Kevin R. Tipple ©2022
Before long Special Agents Felicity Harland and Ferdinand Huxley (who has made the jump to ISB from being a Park Ranger and is being pulled from doing training modules- much to his relief) are at the scene of the two bodies. Unlike in most cases, there has been little involvement by animals. No obvious cause of death and no signs of defensive wounds. It is clear that they are dead, but the signs of what caused it are not clear. There are also clear indications that something strange was going on before they died. One example are the faint marks on the wrists on both bodies that indicate some sort of ligatures were used on them in recent days.
Harland and Huxley are on the case and soon forced to work undercover to ferret out the truth. Humans are one threat. Nature itself is another. Either can kill you dead if you let your guard down.
A worthy and enjoyable sequel to Vanishing Edge, much is going on in this complicated and action filled read. Events and backstory regarding the first book come up here. Quite a lot from book one is referenced, so it is strongly recommended that readers start with Vanishing Edge first. You will enjoy this very good sequel a lot more if you do so.
While the book is currently scheduled to be released on November 8th, I was able to read it now thanks to a digital ARC from Severn House via NetGalley.
Kevin R. Tipple ©2022
November 27, 2022
I thoroughly enjoyed this second installment of Kells' National Parks Series featuring Felicity Harland in her job as an agent with the National Parks Investigative Services Bureau. Felicity and her partner, Ferdinand "Hux" Huxley, travel to The Gates of the Arctic National Park when a couple of unexplained deaths occur there. Along with Felicity's dog, Ollie, they pursue answers in the inhospitable terrain while encountering suspicious and possibly dangerous individuals.
Felicity and Hug are wonderful characters, as is canine Ollie. The author does great with writing a compelling plot while still developing her characters very well and making them shine. I love the atmosphere that is given by the Alaskan setting and the outdoor adventures.
I'm so hoping that there will be more books in this series. It has started off so well, and has much potential for many more great stories with these characters set in other national parks. I really want to see what happens next in the lives of Felicity and Hux, and I'd like some resolution on a tragedy that befell Felicity prior to the beginning of the series.
Felicity and Hug are wonderful characters, as is canine Ollie. The author does great with writing a compelling plot while still developing her characters very well and making them shine. I love the atmosphere that is given by the Alaskan setting and the outdoor adventures.
I'm so hoping that there will be more books in this series. It has started off so well, and has much potential for many more great stories with these characters set in other national parks. I really want to see what happens next in the lives of Felicity and Hux, and I'd like some resolution on a tragedy that befell Felicity prior to the beginning of the series.
January 19, 2023
4 Stars
I enjoyed this one much more than book one. I hadn't liked the heroine's narrative in the first book. It was empirical and too comfortable in regard to Hux's character. Felicity and Hux are now friends and co-workers and the familiarity feels warranted.
I enjoyed the mystery and suspense, even with moments when I had to suspend belief. The plotline and characters were unique. This was basically a cozy mystery - no gore, overt violence, or swearing. Nothing that I felt was missing. Simply an enjoyable and easy-going mystery with hints of a possible Felicity & Hux romance in future books. Fingers crossed.
March 29, 2024
Mi piace davvero questa serie ambientata nei parchi americani e spero che duri a lungo. Mi piace soprattutto perché la protagonista e il coprotagonista (un ex Navy SEAL... e ho detto tutto) si muovono nell'ambiente non sempre ospitale: qui c'è un incontro ravvicinato con un orso che mi ha fatto venire i brividi. Non male anche il mistero: la persona che è risultata colpevole mi aveva fatto venire dei dubbi quasi da subito, ma sinceramente ho pensato a lungo che l'assassino fosse qualcun altro. E non dico altro per non rovinare la lettura ad altri.
July 12, 2024
I like this series. Looking forward to the next one!
May 28, 2022
In Book 2 of Claire Kells National Parks Mystery, An Unforgiving Place (Crooked Lane Books 2022), Investigative Services Bureau agent Felicity Harland and her hunky partner, ex-Navy SEAL Hux are sent to the Alaskan wilderness to investigate the death of two hikers--possibly or probably murder. Both Felicity and Hux thrive on challenges, and Alaska's icy wilds satisfies that desire. Early in the investigation, they find clues that the couple was here on a fertility retreat, to try to solve issues that prevented them from becoming pregnant, and something went terribly wrong. Hux and Felicity go undercover with the same retreat, pretending to be hikers lost in the same general backwoods area who are looking for safety within the larger group from the area's threats. It isn't long before they become the target of killers, intent on keeping whatever secret they have away from Federal law enforcement.
The story is fast-moving and soaked in the unforgiving world of wild Alaska. Highly recommended for those who like their FBI chases to have a lot of icy and feral teeth in them.
The story is fast-moving and soaked in the unforgiving world of wild Alaska. Highly recommended for those who like their FBI chases to have a lot of icy and feral teeth in them.
November 26, 2022
Just as good as the first one. More adorable Ollie-pup, an even more solid feeling of equal partnership between Felicity & Hux, and a generally compelling mystery (I did suspect who had killed the missing couple pretty early, but the motive remained a surprise until its reveal). The author even throws us a lil' There Is Only One Sleeping Bag, with pressing hypothermia concerns to boot. They regrettably do not get to the point of falling asleep together, but I'll take what I can get. I just love this pair.
P.S. If I heard about a secretive off-the-grid quasi-spiritual guide promising miracle fertility cures and specializing in helping couples where male fertility is the issue, I would simply assume immediately that said guide was impregnating the women himself. r.i.p. to these ladies who have apparently lost their damn minds from desperation but im different.
P.S. If I heard about a secretive off-the-grid quasi-spiritual guide promising miracle fertility cures and specializing in helping couples where male fertility is the issue, I would simply assume immediately that said guide was impregnating the women himself. r.i.p. to these ladies who have apparently lost their damn minds from desperation but im different.
May 23, 2022
I read the entire thing in one night!
Felicity Harland and her partner Hux Huxley work for the NISB, or the National Investigative Services Bureau. They are working on a case in Alaska. A couple has gone missing and is found dead. Felicity and Hux believe the deaths to be related to a fertility cult hiding in the mountains.
I CAN'T EXPLAIN HOW MUCH I LOVED THIS BOOK!!
It was so good and there was no sexual content other than the verbal sexual language at times. I read the entire book in one night. I have my fingers crossed that there will be another book where Felicity and Hux explore their chemistry together. Sign me up! I will absolutely recommend this book to family and friends.
Felicity Harland and her partner Hux Huxley work for the NISB, or the National Investigative Services Bureau. They are working on a case in Alaska. A couple has gone missing and is found dead. Felicity and Hux believe the deaths to be related to a fertility cult hiding in the mountains.
I CAN'T EXPLAIN HOW MUCH I LOVED THIS BOOK!!
It was so good and there was no sexual content other than the verbal sexual language at times. I read the entire book in one night. I have my fingers crossed that there will be another book where Felicity and Hux explore their chemistry together. Sign me up! I will absolutely recommend this book to family and friends.
March 26, 2024
This second book in this series was as absorbing for me as the first. This one is set in the most remote of National Parks, the Gates of the Arctic. I loved getting to know a little about this park and the wilderness it protects, all while enjoying an intense mystery. I am glad to have found a series that helps fill the gap left by the end of the Anna Pigeon series by Nevada Barr.
January 4, 2023
Totally believable plot NOT...couples who have tried everything to conceive a child go to a national park in Alaska's Artic Circle as a last resort, murderer is similar to the murderer in her first book, while I liked her first book, very disappointed in this one
August 1, 2025
An Unforgiving Place is the second book in the National Parks Mystery series. Set in the Gates of the Artic National Park in Alaska, main characters Felicity Harland and former Navy SEAL, "Hux" Huxley are sent to follow up on two dead bodies found deep in the wilderness. They work for the Investigative Services Bureau (ISB), which investigates crimes in national parks.
In addition to these two dead bodies, there are also some missing hikers. There's also the possibility of a cult involving couples with fertility issues.
The team needs to be flown in to the most remote section of Alaska. The setting is absolutely fantastic and well described as are the difficulties with communication and searching. There’s a little hint of romance between Felicity and Hux and we get to know Ollie, a dog that everyone will love. The mystery was interesting and I had a hard time figuring out who the bad guys were.
I read the first book of this series a couple of years ago and had forgotten Felicity's backstory. This book can easily be read as a stand-alone because the backstory is explained in the course of book and doesn't provide any spoilers for the first book.
I love mysteries set in national parks so I am definitely planning to continue the series.
In addition to these two dead bodies, there are also some missing hikers. There's also the possibility of a cult involving couples with fertility issues.
The team needs to be flown in to the most remote section of Alaska. The setting is absolutely fantastic and well described as are the difficulties with communication and searching. There’s a little hint of romance between Felicity and Hux and we get to know Ollie, a dog that everyone will love. The mystery was interesting and I had a hard time figuring out who the bad guys were.
I read the first book of this series a couple of years ago and had forgotten Felicity's backstory. This book can easily be read as a stand-alone because the backstory is explained in the course of book and doesn't provide any spoilers for the first book.
I love mysteries set in national parks so I am definitely planning to continue the series.
November 28, 2022
I am loving this series so far and can hardly wait until the next installment! This is book two which has already established the partnership between Felicity Harland and Ferdinand Hux/Huxley. They have hilarious banter, easy camaraderie and a perfect support system both on the job and off ...mix in their deep connection and the sexual tension. GAH!
This series continues to pack mystery and suspense in a wild wilderness setting this time involving a fertility cult. The two go undercover as a married couple (just admit your feelings, please!!) to get to the bottom of a murdered couple who went missing.
There are plenty of on the edge of your seat moments and life or death situations...all leading to the grand reveal of "who done it!" Which I admit, I suspected, but it did not take away from the story. And that very last line from Felicity's dream...please let it be Hux and don't bring back her husband who is supposed to be dead, but of course no body was ever found. Sigh.
I listened to the audio version and the narrator really brings the characters to life!
This series continues to pack mystery and suspense in a wild wilderness setting this time involving a fertility cult. The two go undercover as a married couple (just admit your feelings, please!!) to get to the bottom of a murdered couple who went missing.
There are plenty of on the edge of your seat moments and life or death situations...all leading to the grand reveal of "who done it!" Which I admit, I suspected, but it did not take away from the story. And that very last line from Felicity's dream...please let it be Hux and don't bring back her husband who is supposed to be dead, but of course no body was ever found. Sigh.
I listened to the audio version and the narrator really brings the characters to life!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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