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Passerby
Jester Falls has always been an idyllic town. Perfect for a getaway. And what better place to stay than Magnolia House, the tourist trap's most popular bed and breakfast, run by the eccentric Channing family.
Ruth Channing loves her family—at least what's left of it. She'd do anything to protect them.
But it isn't until her brother picks up a mysterious woman on the side of Route 78 that Ruth realizes how many definitions the word anything can have.
Everything about Ashley Parker rings false: her past, her profession, even her name. Most worryingly of all, her reluctance to leave. When guests start disappearing, it's clear there's more at stake than just the family business... a lot more.
Ruth Channing loves her family—at least what's left of it. She'd do anything to protect them.
But it isn't until her brother picks up a mysterious woman on the side of Route 78 that Ruth realizes how many definitions the word anything can have.
Everything about Ashley Parker rings false: her past, her profession, even her name. Most worryingly of all, her reluctance to leave. When guests start disappearing, it's clear there's more at stake than just the family business... a lot more.
Audiobook
First published July 22, 2021
111 people are currently reading
3211 people want to read
About the author
Britney King
77 books1,621 followersGrab a drink. Settle in. I’ve got a quick story for you.
It starts, as most good stories do, with someone chasing a feeling.
Picture a Texas writer surrounded by five kids, two literary dogs, one unreasonable cat, and a partridge in a pear tree—all orbiting a household powered by caffeine, chaos, and sheer willpower.
Instead of getting into trouble in real life, she decided to invent it on the page. (Healthier for everyone. Mostly.)
She didn’t set out to write the perfect thriller, but she has been chasing a certain feeling for years—chasing the perfect story.
The kind that makes you miss your exit, burn your dinner, or stay up later than you meant to.
The kind that makes a reader say “just one more chapter” and lie to themselves beautifully.
Some writers chase awards.
Britney chases that feeling.
You might call it persistence.
She calls it passion—the only real secret ingredient behind thirty-plus books and counting.
Always reaching for whatever that elusive green-light moment is.
She hasn’t caught it yet.
But that’s half the fun.
You can find Britney online here:
Website ➜ https://britneyking.com
Facebook ➜ https://www.facebook.com/BritneyKingA...
TikTok ➜ https://www.tiktok.com/@britneyking_
Instagram ➜ https://www.instagram.com/britneyking_/
BookBub ➜ https://www.bookbub.com/authors/britn...
Newsletter ➜ https://britneyking.com/newsletter/
It starts, as most good stories do, with someone chasing a feeling.
Picture a Texas writer surrounded by five kids, two literary dogs, one unreasonable cat, and a partridge in a pear tree—all orbiting a household powered by caffeine, chaos, and sheer willpower.
Instead of getting into trouble in real life, she decided to invent it on the page. (Healthier for everyone. Mostly.)
She didn’t set out to write the perfect thriller, but she has been chasing a certain feeling for years—chasing the perfect story.
The kind that makes you miss your exit, burn your dinner, or stay up later than you meant to.
The kind that makes a reader say “just one more chapter” and lie to themselves beautifully.
Some writers chase awards.
Britney chases that feeling.
You might call it persistence.
She calls it passion—the only real secret ingredient behind thirty-plus books and counting.
Always reaching for whatever that elusive green-light moment is.
She hasn’t caught it yet.
But that’s half the fun.
You can find Britney online here:
Website ➜ https://britneyking.com
Facebook ➜ https://www.facebook.com/BritneyKingA...
TikTok ➜ https://www.tiktok.com/@britneyking_
Instagram ➜ https://www.instagram.com/britneyking_/
BookBub ➜ https://www.bookbub.com/authors/britn...
Newsletter ➜ https://britneyking.com/newsletter/
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 140 reviews
January 29, 2022
I read a LOT of thrillers and I listen to as many as I can. Passerby was my first book by Britney King and it won’t be my last. She has a dark, snarky, funny voice and a knack for creating memorable characters.
The plot did lose me at times. For me the conceit of the “passerby” narrator did not really work as it interrupted the parts of the book that interested me more. And I didn’t fully understand (or maybe it was more that I didn’t fully buy) the ultimate reason for the murders. But I did enjoy the reading experience, the characters (especially Ruth, our quirky and sometimes snappish main character) and the funny and intense narration of the audiobook. And I enjoyed the very end twist a lot. While I’d give this book 3.5 stars overall because of parts of the plot that didn’t fully resonate, I was definitely entertained and engaged, and even more definitely interested in reading any other books Britney King has to offer. The plot of this one just lost me a bit.
Thanks to OrangeSky Audio and NetGalley for the advance listening copy and the introduction to a new thriller author whose voice I enjoyed!
The plot did lose me at times. For me the conceit of the “passerby” narrator did not really work as it interrupted the parts of the book that interested me more. And I didn’t fully understand (or maybe it was more that I didn’t fully buy) the ultimate reason for the murders. But I did enjoy the reading experience, the characters (especially Ruth, our quirky and sometimes snappish main character) and the funny and intense narration of the audiobook. And I enjoyed the very end twist a lot. While I’d give this book 3.5 stars overall because of parts of the plot that didn’t fully resonate, I was definitely entertained and engaged, and even more definitely interested in reading any other books Britney King has to offer. The plot of this one just lost me a bit.
Thanks to OrangeSky Audio and NetGalley for the advance listening copy and the introduction to a new thriller author whose voice I enjoyed!
January 25, 2022
I really liked this audiobook and the main reason is the narrator. She was funny and on point. She made the story so enjoyable. The book itself was good and kept me on the edge of my seat wondering what was gonna happen next. It was also pretty short which was a nice change. I have never heard of this author but I’m interested in checking out her other books.
Ruth Channing and her family run a bed and breakfast is their small town. Her brother takes it upon himself to bring home a stranger he picked up on the sids of Route 78. Everything about this girl is suspect. However, what is most disturbing is her refusal to leave. When the guests start disappearing Ruth is determined to get to the bottom of it.
Thank you to Netgalley and OrangeSkye Audio for this arc in exchange for my honest review.
Ruth Channing and her family run a bed and breakfast is their small town. Her brother takes it upon himself to bring home a stranger he picked up on the sids of Route 78. Everything about this girl is suspect. However, what is most disturbing is her refusal to leave. When the guests start disappearing Ruth is determined to get to the bottom of it.
Thank you to Netgalley and OrangeSkye Audio for this arc in exchange for my honest review.
July 20, 2021
Britney King once again has smashed it out of the park. I challenge anybody to pick up one of her books and not be completely addicted. Every single one of her books that I have read has shocked me and kept me up well past my bedtime. Her new book, Passerby is another dark and twisty tale that you don’t want to miss.
So what is is about? Not going to give anything away.. but what you need to know is.. Ruth Channing runs her family owned bed and breakfast, Magnolia House. Her family is everything to her. But when her brother brings home Ashley Park, a stranger he meets on his travels. Immediately Ruth is dubious of her motives and sets out to prove she is right, putting her own life in danger.
That is all you are getting. You need to read this one.. clear your calendars.
Thanks to Britney King for sending me an advanced copy to read
So what is is about? Not going to give anything away.. but what you need to know is.. Ruth Channing runs her family owned bed and breakfast, Magnolia House. Her family is everything to her. But when her brother brings home Ashley Park, a stranger he meets on his travels. Immediately Ruth is dubious of her motives and sets out to prove she is right, putting her own life in danger.
That is all you are getting. You need to read this one.. clear your calendars.
Thanks to Britney King for sending me an advanced copy to read
February 9, 2022
Nothing causes trouble in a family faster than the addition of a new member…especially when that new member is a woman!
The Channing siblings own Magnolia House, a beautiful bed and breakfast that the sister—Ruth—runs. Her brother brings home a mysterious woman and turns everything upside down.
This was a very entertaining audiobook with a great narrator.
Thank you to netgalley for the complimentary copy of this audiobook. I’m leaving this review voluntarily.
#passerby #britneyking #netgalley #bookreviewer #inexchangeforreview #orangeskyaudio #justfinishedreading #psychologicalthriller #audiobookreview
The Channing siblings own Magnolia House, a beautiful bed and breakfast that the sister—Ruth—runs. Her brother brings home a mysterious woman and turns everything upside down.
This was a very entertaining audiobook with a great narrator.
Thank you to netgalley for the complimentary copy of this audiobook. I’m leaving this review voluntarily.
#passerby #britneyking #netgalley #bookreviewer #inexchangeforreview #orangeskyaudio #justfinishedreading #psychologicalthriller #audiobookreview
July 25, 2021
Favorite Quote:
There are three things you should always keep a secret: your love life, your income, and your next move. Once you lose your mystery, you can’t get it back. As the saying goes, sincerity is glass, discretion is diamond.
My Review:
I continue with my fascination with the intriguing and maddeningly paced storylines culled from the dark recesses of Britney King’s irregularly curved and bendy imagination. I never know where her cunning arrangements of words is going to take me, or who the actual culprit will be in her devious and snark-laden tales, but I have so much fun flinching and cringing while I postulate and toss aside a multitude of wild theories along the way. She excels at the fast-paced itchy tales that keep me on edge and unable to put my beloved Kindle down without a struggle. With her newest release of Passerby, she continues to reign supreme on my thriller hit list where I have given her the designation of High Priestess of Word Voodoo.
There are three things you should always keep a secret: your love life, your income, and your next move. Once you lose your mystery, you can’t get it back. As the saying goes, sincerity is glass, discretion is diamond.
My Review:
I continue with my fascination with the intriguing and maddeningly paced storylines culled from the dark recesses of Britney King’s irregularly curved and bendy imagination. I never know where her cunning arrangements of words is going to take me, or who the actual culprit will be in her devious and snark-laden tales, but I have so much fun flinching and cringing while I postulate and toss aside a multitude of wild theories along the way. She excels at the fast-paced itchy tales that keep me on edge and unable to put my beloved Kindle down without a struggle. With her newest release of Passerby, she continues to reign supreme on my thriller hit list where I have given her the designation of High Priestess of Word Voodoo.
July 23, 2021
New Britney King Book Alert!
🚨🚨🚨🚨🚨
~Thanks @britneyking_ for the gifted advanced e-arc. 😘 ~
Like all of Britney’s books, I binged the heck out of this story. I love a story about siblings and add a small town and a mysterious visitor and I’m sold.
If you’re new to Kings books I definitely recommend starting with the New Hope series, its my fave.
#Passerby Synopsis: Jester Falls has always been an idyllic town. Perfect for a getaway. And what better place to stay than Magnolia House, the tourist trap’s most popular bed and breakfast, run by the eccentric Channing family.
Ruth Channing loves her family—at least what’s left of it. She’d do anything to protect them.
But it isn’t until her brother picks up a mysterious woman on the side of Route 78 that Ruth realizes how many definitions the word anything can have.
Everything about Ashley Parker rings false: her past, her profession, even her name. Most worryingly of all, her reluctance to leave. When guests start disappearing, it’s clear there’s more at stake than just the family business… a lot more.
3.5 stars
#BritneyKing #suspense #smalltownlife #thriller #basicbsguide #bookcover #alwaysreading #tbr #favoriteauthor #bookobsessed #newbooks #thrillerbooks #whattoread #booksleeve #kindleread #bookandadrink #bookstagram #nowreading #summerbooks #readingisfun
🚨🚨🚨🚨🚨
~Thanks @britneyking_ for the gifted advanced e-arc. 😘 ~
Like all of Britney’s books, I binged the heck out of this story. I love a story about siblings and add a small town and a mysterious visitor and I’m sold.
If you’re new to Kings books I definitely recommend starting with the New Hope series, its my fave.
#Passerby Synopsis: Jester Falls has always been an idyllic town. Perfect for a getaway. And what better place to stay than Magnolia House, the tourist trap’s most popular bed and breakfast, run by the eccentric Channing family.
Ruth Channing loves her family—at least what’s left of it. She’d do anything to protect them.
But it isn’t until her brother picks up a mysterious woman on the side of Route 78 that Ruth realizes how many definitions the word anything can have.
Everything about Ashley Parker rings false: her past, her profession, even her name. Most worryingly of all, her reluctance to leave. When guests start disappearing, it’s clear there’s more at stake than just the family business… a lot more.
3.5 stars
#BritneyKing #suspense #smalltownlife #thriller #basicbsguide #bookcover #alwaysreading #tbr #favoriteauthor #bookobsessed #newbooks #thrillerbooks #whattoread #booksleeve #kindleread #bookandadrink #bookstagram #nowreading #summerbooks #readingisfun
July 22, 2021
I am always excited for a new Britney King novel, and she really outdid herself with Passerby. This was a wild ride as all of her books are, but her writing feels very polished and it felt totally different from her other work. I loved the setting of Magnolia House and could really relate to the small-town feel of Jester Falls where everyone knows everything about everyone. Almost the whole book is told from the viewpoint of Ruth which I really liked, and I could practically feel all of her frustrations coming off the page. She is already struggling with things in her own life when Ashley shows up and having her there added even more tension to the story, plus put a lot more pressure on Ruth. I enjoyed Ruth's character quite a bit, and for me, she was pretty dang relatable.
Passerby is incredibly addicting and it was very hard to put down to go to bed. I read it in about 2 sittings although I would have preferred to in 1 since I had to know what would happen. The end TOTALLY SHOOK ME, and I still can't get over how twisty it ended up being. I thought I had everything figured out and I was completely wrong, which if you're like me, is a huge bonus. This is one of those books where you finish and want to talk about it because it is so good and so crazy. I have loved all of King's books I have read, and this wasn't an exception. If you can suspend some disbelief, then you must check out this author's books. I am a very loyal fan of hers and this was another winner that I won't be forgetting anytime soon!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Passerby is incredibly addicting and it was very hard to put down to go to bed. I read it in about 2 sittings although I would have preferred to in 1 since I had to know what would happen. The end TOTALLY SHOOK ME, and I still can't get over how twisty it ended up being. I thought I had everything figured out and I was completely wrong, which if you're like me, is a huge bonus. This is one of those books where you finish and want to talk about it because it is so good and so crazy. I have loved all of King's books I have read, and this wasn't an exception. If you can suspend some disbelief, then you must check out this author's books. I am a very loyal fan of hers and this was another winner that I won't be forgetting anytime soon!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
February 1, 2022
This was a unique story told in a unique way. Our narrators are Ruth and (occasionally)the mysterious passerby. *cue spooky music*
I liked the creepy mystery aspect to this story but mostly, I liked Ruth. It was funny seeing her deal with her goofy brothers and the goofy, clingy girl one brought home to annoy everyone and win over the locals with her ditziness and.. charm?? A real barnacle, that gal.
One word I’d use to describe this book is random. One minute we’re discussing a Miss Watermelon pageant, the next we’re being run off the road. This is just a normal day for Ruth in the resort town of Jester Falls!
I think it’s a cozy night in book. Nice little mystery and a quick read/listen. I switched between ebook and audio. The narration was great! She brought Ruth to life.
I’m partial to mysteries in the setting of an Inn or a “snowed in and something weird is happening” story so this is right up my alley.
Thanks to NetGalley and OrangeSky Audio for the chance to read it. I have already been looking for more from this author.
This would be great for fans of Tara Laskowski.
I liked the creepy mystery aspect to this story but mostly, I liked Ruth. It was funny seeing her deal with her goofy brothers and the goofy, clingy girl one brought home to annoy everyone and win over the locals with her ditziness and.. charm?? A real barnacle, that gal.
One word I’d use to describe this book is random. One minute we’re discussing a Miss Watermelon pageant, the next we’re being run off the road. This is just a normal day for Ruth in the resort town of Jester Falls!
I think it’s a cozy night in book. Nice little mystery and a quick read/listen. I switched between ebook and audio. The narration was great! She brought Ruth to life.
I’m partial to mysteries in the setting of an Inn or a “snowed in and something weird is happening” story so this is right up my alley.
Thanks to NetGalley and OrangeSky Audio for the chance to read it. I have already been looking for more from this author.
This would be great for fans of Tara Laskowski.
January 29, 2022
Passerby
By: Britney King
4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Magnolia House is a bed and breakfast owned by the Channing family. Ruth Channing runs the B & B. Her brother shows up unannounced with a girl he just met. Ashley Park is literally a stranger and quickly weaves her way into her brothers heart. Ruth is suspicious of Ashley and her motives.
🏡
“Three things you should always keep a secret: your love life, income and your next move” is quoted in this book. So poignant in this novel.
🏡
Thank you NetGalley for this audio. I will definitely read more by this author. #britneyking, #netgalley, #orangeskyaudio, #bookstagram, #audiobook, #booksconnectus, #stamperlady50
By: Britney King
4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Magnolia House is a bed and breakfast owned by the Channing family. Ruth Channing runs the B & B. Her brother shows up unannounced with a girl he just met. Ashley Park is literally a stranger and quickly weaves her way into her brothers heart. Ruth is suspicious of Ashley and her motives.
🏡
“Three things you should always keep a secret: your love life, income and your next move” is quoted in this book. So poignant in this novel.
🏡
Thank you NetGalley for this audio. I will definitely read more by this author. #britneyking, #netgalley, #orangeskyaudio, #bookstagram, #audiobook, #booksconnectus, #stamperlady50
April 3, 2022
Dnf 48% I have NO idea what's happening. Not a single thing. It's like this book started in the middle of a book in the middle of a chapter and nothing makes sense and it sucks.
January 29, 2022
Book: Passerby
Author: Britany King
Genre: Psychological/Thriller
Publisher: OrangeSky Audio
Pub Date: February 1. 2022
My Rating: 3.7 rounded up!
Ruth and the mysterious ‘Passerby’ are the narrators for this story.
Ruth Channing runs her family own bed and breakfast, the Magnolia House in Jester Falls.
Story stars when Ruth’s brother Davis meets Ashley Park an attractive girl on his travels and not only brings her back to Jester Falls but wants to marry her.
Ruth is suspicious of Ashley ~ everything about her seems false. But Davis wants Ruth to be helpful; so she puts her up in the Guest House. Ashley loves it and doesn’t want to leave the security of the Magnolia House.
When guests end up dead, Ruth is even more suspicious.
Aww I am a big Psychological/Mystery/Thriller fan and there are four things I expect:
Twists and turns!
Be suspicious of everyone!
The most obvious person didn’t do it!
There will be many secrets!
Yep checked all four! Kept me guessing and turning pages!
My first Britney King but I will read another!
Want to thank NetGalley and OrangeSky Audio ~ for this audio eGalley. This file has been made available to me before publication in an early form for an honest professional review.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for February 1, 2022.
July 19, 2021
There are three things that make or break a psychological thriller:
1. The beginning
2. The middle
3. The end
Basically you have to nail it from start to finish for it to be any good…and Britney King does this every. single. time.
I cannot stress enough how quickly this book sucked me in. The beginning? Captivating. Intriguing. Grabbed me hook, line, and sinker and put me front and center with the main character, Ruth, whose voice—I swear—had to have been inspired by my own. She speaks in the sarcasm that I live by and within a couple chapters, I already loved her. So, beginning? Check!
The middle—laid the groundwork for what was sure to be an explosive ending. It’s the beginning of the end, the calm before the storm, the coming undone of the Channing family.
The end—riddled with unexpected twists, fast-paced and keeps the reader turning pages until the very last one.
I simply cannot say enough good things about this book, or the fabulous author who wrote it.
Thank you to the incredible, Britney King, for the gifted eARC! Passerby releases 7/22!
1. The beginning
2. The middle
3. The end
Basically you have to nail it from start to finish for it to be any good…and Britney King does this every. single. time.
I cannot stress enough how quickly this book sucked me in. The beginning? Captivating. Intriguing. Grabbed me hook, line, and sinker and put me front and center with the main character, Ruth, whose voice—I swear—had to have been inspired by my own. She speaks in the sarcasm that I live by and within a couple chapters, I already loved her. So, beginning? Check!
The middle—laid the groundwork for what was sure to be an explosive ending. It’s the beginning of the end, the calm before the storm, the coming undone of the Channing family.
The end—riddled with unexpected twists, fast-paced and keeps the reader turning pages until the very last one.
I simply cannot say enough good things about this book, or the fabulous author who wrote it.
Thank you to the incredible, Britney King, for the gifted eARC! Passerby releases 7/22!
July 22, 2021
Thank you, @britneyking_ for my eARC of PASSERBY in exchange for my honest review.
"Roils with passion, rancor, and greed wrapped in Southern politesse... King's intricately woven mystery is sure to please fans of the thriller and suspense genre far and wide."
Jester Falls has always been an idyllic town. Perfect for a getaway. And what better place to stay than Magnolia House, the tourist trap's most popular bed and breakfast, run by the eccentric Channing family.
Ruth Channing loves her family—at least what's left of it. She'd do anything to protect them. But it isn't until her brother picks up a mysterious woman on the side of Route 78 that Ruth realizes how many definitions the word anything can have.
Everything about Ashley Parker rings false: her past, her profession, even her name. Most worryingly of all, her reluctance to leave. When guests start disappearing, it's clear there's more at stake than just the family business… a lot more.
Let me start by saying I loved PASSERBY and LOVE King’s writing! I devoured this book in just over 24 hours. I have been a SLOW reader this month but this one helped me pick back up!
The first page instantly hooked me in to this addictive read. King is a mastermind at creating a descriptive plot without any unnecessary extra fluff. That leads to a short book with all the twists and turns you’d find in a longer one! Who’s with me on loving short books?! 🥰 Buy this one NOW!
Rating: 4.5/5
February 24, 2022
This is the story of the Changing family. They are running a family-business, a bed and breakfast.
Ruth is kind of a quirky woman who would do anything for her family. That's what made me like her.
When Ruth’s brother brings home Ashley Parker, a woman he picked up on the side of the road, things get strange. Ruth is not as sure of Ashley as her brother and why do all the guests of their B&B disappear? Is there a connection? It is up to Ruth to find this out.
Well, I liked the narration of this audiobook a lot and it is an entertaining read!
Thanks #NetGalley #OrangeSky Audio for the Audiobook of Passerby
Ruth is kind of a quirky woman who would do anything for her family. That's what made me like her.
When Ruth’s brother brings home Ashley Parker, a woman he picked up on the side of the road, things get strange. Ruth is not as sure of Ashley as her brother and why do all the guests of their B&B disappear? Is there a connection? It is up to Ruth to find this out.
Well, I liked the narration of this audiobook a lot and it is an entertaining read!
Thanks #NetGalley #OrangeSky Audio for the Audiobook of Passerby
February 11, 2022
ARC audiobook given in exchange for an honest review.
This was the first book I’ve ever read by Brittany King and I definitely wouldn’t be opposed to reading some of her other work. I really enjoyed the story and writing style, only felt it was lacking character development. I would’ve really liked to have a glimpse into Ruth’s relationship with her brothers before the story starts off. I feel like I might have enjoyed this better in physical book form as it was hard to distinguish a timeline of events and I wasn’t the biggest fan of the narrator when she was reading for the male characters. Other than that I really enjoyed the plot and how the story revealed itself.
This was the first book I’ve ever read by Brittany King and I definitely wouldn’t be opposed to reading some of her other work. I really enjoyed the story and writing style, only felt it was lacking character development. I would’ve really liked to have a glimpse into Ruth’s relationship with her brothers before the story starts off. I feel like I might have enjoyed this better in physical book form as it was hard to distinguish a timeline of events and I wasn’t the biggest fan of the narrator when she was reading for the male characters. Other than that I really enjoyed the plot and how the story revealed itself.
July 23, 2021
Review: honestly the first 30% of this book I had no idea what was going on. It was very hard to connect with the characters. I wish I could say I loved this one more because I really loved her last release. There were a lot of irrelevant parts too.
Quite a few people that have read this have enjoyed it so please don’t let my review steer you away! It was just wasn’t my favorite by her.
Quite a few people that have read this have enjoyed it so please don’t let my review steer you away! It was just wasn’t my favorite by her.
July 22, 2021
What I liked: Intriguing beginning, short and fast paced (I read in one sitting!), and I was not able to guess the twist. What I didn’t: I wanted more of Ashley and Chris’s background, the transition toward the end felt a little choppy, and I was left with some questions 🤔
August 19, 2021
This was a rather odd story. I spent the first half being confused about who is who and what was happening. Can't say it got much better by the time I finished.
I found Ruth somewhat insufferable, and considering she did most of the narrating, it was not the most enjoyable experience.
I found Ruth somewhat insufferable, and considering she did most of the narrating, it was not the most enjoyable experience.
July 22, 2021
Passerby was my perfect Saturday night read. King never fails to thrill me with her suspenseful tales and her latest did not disappoint. Small town living and dead bodies wrapped in a bit of southern charm is what’s on tap.
I personally find thrillers tricky to talk about without spoiling all the juicy surprises. Because of this, I am sharing just the basic storyline and will tell you why it worked for me. Jester Falls is the quintessential small town where you went to kindergarten with the local police officer and there is a life long feud between two of the big families in town. Ruth Channing was born and raised here with her brothers and runs the Magnolia House, the most popular bed and breakfast around. One of her brothers comes home with a random girlfriend that he quickly decides to marry. Ruth is on to her though. After some digging around, she discovers that her sister-in-law, to be, has been lying about her name and her past. To make matters worse, mysterious murders are happening under foot leaving Ruth suspicious and concerned for her family’s well being and the livelihood of The Magnolia House.
Now let me share with you the really good stuff. The story is narrated by Ruth and the anonymous Passerby. Let me just add real quick that I LOVE an undisclosed narrator. Talk about fast paced and keeping me guessing !!! King immediately presents two dead bodies and someone struggling with what to do about it right out of the gate. What I quickly learned was that King was teasing me with a scene that happens later on in the book, hooking me and reeling me in to the finish line. The characters in Passerby weren’t exactly loveable, but instead hardened and even layered for that matter (side-effect of small town living). As I was trying to figure out who was responsible for the different murders, I can honestly say, I was STUMPED! King threw me of course every step of the way and having that secret narrator made the journey way more fun. In case you are wondering, yes there are murders and a few dead bodies, but the story is not overly graphic. Passerby moves at a speedy pace, so plan on reading this in as close to one sitting as possible. I promise, it’s easy to do.
https://dearmrhemingway.com/watermelo...
I personally find thrillers tricky to talk about without spoiling all the juicy surprises. Because of this, I am sharing just the basic storyline and will tell you why it worked for me. Jester Falls is the quintessential small town where you went to kindergarten with the local police officer and there is a life long feud between two of the big families in town. Ruth Channing was born and raised here with her brothers and runs the Magnolia House, the most popular bed and breakfast around. One of her brothers comes home with a random girlfriend that he quickly decides to marry. Ruth is on to her though. After some digging around, she discovers that her sister-in-law, to be, has been lying about her name and her past. To make matters worse, mysterious murders are happening under foot leaving Ruth suspicious and concerned for her family’s well being and the livelihood of The Magnolia House.
Now let me share with you the really good stuff. The story is narrated by Ruth and the anonymous Passerby. Let me just add real quick that I LOVE an undisclosed narrator. Talk about fast paced and keeping me guessing !!! King immediately presents two dead bodies and someone struggling with what to do about it right out of the gate. What I quickly learned was that King was teasing me with a scene that happens later on in the book, hooking me and reeling me in to the finish line. The characters in Passerby weren’t exactly loveable, but instead hardened and even layered for that matter (side-effect of small town living). As I was trying to figure out who was responsible for the different murders, I can honestly say, I was STUMPED! King threw me of course every step of the way and having that secret narrator made the journey way more fun. In case you are wondering, yes there are murders and a few dead bodies, but the story is not overly graphic. Passerby moves at a speedy pace, so plan on reading this in as close to one sitting as possible. I promise, it’s easy to do.
https://dearmrhemingway.com/watermelo...
February 6, 2022
If you’re looking for a quick to read/listen thriller story, you might want to put “Passerby” on your TBR list. Just imagine an idyllic family-owned bed & breakfast in a town called Jester Falls. The B&B run by Ruth Channing is the perfect place to organise a pleasant event with friend and family and make the best of memories... until guests start disappearing... mortal accidents take place... and corpses start showing up... and a strange woman gets herself engaged to Ruth’s brother! Chapter by chapter, Ruth’s world and of those around her gets ripped apart and just when thing couldn’t get worse, they get worse!
Overall, I liked the theme and the story development a lot! This is the kind of story that makes me want to keep on reading without break, and when the chapters start being narrated from the killer’s point of view, I am superglued to the book until the last page.
Despite all of this, I could only give it 3 starts because of the writing style which seemed a little chaotic, until I finally got a grip on how the author structure the story and the ending. While I felt that the action developed at a fairly decent pace, towards the end it just got very fast-paced, up to the point where I wasn’t sure who’s point of view I was listening to. But, again, this was just my impression. If you’re into this kind of storytelling, then this is definitely the book to start reading now!
Special thanks to NetGalley, OrangeSky Audio and the author for giving me the opportunity to review the ARC in audiobook format and to you, my reader, for taking the time to read this honest personal book review.
If you are interested in other of my book reviews, make sure to follow me on GoodReads!
#LifeLongLearning #Passerby #NetGalley
Overall, I liked the theme and the story development a lot! This is the kind of story that makes me want to keep on reading without break, and when the chapters start being narrated from the killer’s point of view, I am superglued to the book until the last page.
Despite all of this, I could only give it 3 starts because of the writing style which seemed a little chaotic, until I finally got a grip on how the author structure the story and the ending. While I felt that the action developed at a fairly decent pace, towards the end it just got very fast-paced, up to the point where I wasn’t sure who’s point of view I was listening to. But, again, this was just my impression. If you’re into this kind of storytelling, then this is definitely the book to start reading now!
Special thanks to NetGalley, OrangeSky Audio and the author for giving me the opportunity to review the ARC in audiobook format and to you, my reader, for taking the time to read this honest personal book review.
If you are interested in other of my book reviews, make sure to follow me on GoodReads!
#LifeLongLearning #Passerby #NetGalley
August 10, 2021
2.75
I think this book held a lot of promise and it was… to a certain extent.
It is weird, as the plot doesn’t feel like an usual thriller. The author doesn’t introduce the characters slowly, but rather abrupt and at first I didn’t understand why this person is known to the main character Ruth, or why this person is here at the first place. It takes time to actually be immersed in the story to fully understand all the relationships and Ruth’s feeling towards a certain character and the source of Ruth’s annoyance, though these are not too complicated to get into.
But the disappointment here is that the resolution happens too quickly and too short for me to digest. The whole process of deducing who the schemer is lost - gone forever. We never know who Ruth comes to the conclusion, how Ruth’s brother finds out the truth. It just happens in an instant. I read the whole book to wait for the reveal, and the reveal came so suddenly that it felt like a normal detail in the plot which didn’t stand out. I was let down by that kind of execution, as if the author didn’t even care to end the book properly.
I think this book held a lot of promise and it was… to a certain extent.
It is weird, as the plot doesn’t feel like an usual thriller. The author doesn’t introduce the characters slowly, but rather abrupt and at first I didn’t understand why this person is known to the main character Ruth, or why this person is here at the first place. It takes time to actually be immersed in the story to fully understand all the relationships and Ruth’s feeling towards a certain character and the source of Ruth’s annoyance, though these are not too complicated to get into.
But the disappointment here is that the resolution happens too quickly and too short for me to digest. The whole process of deducing who the schemer is lost - gone forever. We never know who Ruth comes to the conclusion, how Ruth’s brother finds out the truth. It just happens in an instant. I read the whole book to wait for the reveal, and the reveal came so suddenly that it felt like a normal detail in the plot which didn’t stand out. I was let down by that kind of execution, as if the author didn’t even care to end the book properly.
July 22, 2021
Bed and breakfast or famous murder house?
I really enjoyed Britney King’s latest thriller! Her books are the perfect length and great for a weekend read.
The new girl in town seems to have brought trouble with her.. but no one really seems to see it, except Ruth the owner of the bed and breakfast, Magnolia House. Her brothers think she’s just a bitter lonely woman, but as the reader we know she’s on to something. Right?
The new girl in town Ashley was picked up as a hitch hiker basically by Ruth’s brother! Her stories aren’t adding up, her life seems a little too perfect but there’s too many holes to ignore.
For a short book it felt like it took a minute to get rolling, but what I really enjoyed where the anonymous chapters from the killers perspective. Once you get to the end you’re not going to believe it, you may even feel a little uneasy that it’s really over! That was the best part for me. Can’t wait to see what Britney comes out with next.
I really enjoyed Britney King’s latest thriller! Her books are the perfect length and great for a weekend read.
The new girl in town seems to have brought trouble with her.. but no one really seems to see it, except Ruth the owner of the bed and breakfast, Magnolia House. Her brothers think she’s just a bitter lonely woman, but as the reader we know she’s on to something. Right?
The new girl in town Ashley was picked up as a hitch hiker basically by Ruth’s brother! Her stories aren’t adding up, her life seems a little too perfect but there’s too many holes to ignore.
For a short book it felt like it took a minute to get rolling, but what I really enjoyed where the anonymous chapters from the killers perspective. Once you get to the end you’re not going to believe it, you may even feel a little uneasy that it’s really over! That was the best part for me. Can’t wait to see what Britney comes out with next.
January 28, 2022
Passerby was an ok read for me. I did enjoy the plot at the end but honestly didn’t get really involved until some major secrets were exposed very late in the book. I felt at times there were unconnected parts that I had trouble understanding the relevance.
Ruth and her two brothers inherited a bed and breakfast from their late parents. Ruth works hard to run the family business with little help from her brothers. When one brother brings home a women he found on the side of the road things get sticky. The strange women does not seem to be all she says she is and worse she doesn’t seem to want to leave. Things get worse when during one of the biggest events at the bed and breakfast a guest goes missing. Ruth must get to the bottom of these issues to have any chance of saving her family’s business and home.
Thank you NetGalley and OrangeSky for a copy of this audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
Ruth and her two brothers inherited a bed and breakfast from their late parents. Ruth works hard to run the family business with little help from her brothers. When one brother brings home a women he found on the side of the road things get sticky. The strange women does not seem to be all she says she is and worse she doesn’t seem to want to leave. Things get worse when during one of the biggest events at the bed and breakfast a guest goes missing. Ruth must get to the bottom of these issues to have any chance of saving her family’s business and home.
Thank you NetGalley and OrangeSky for a copy of this audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
January 24, 2022
Well Fluff Me & Call Me A Panda! 😳😯😳
Holy Mother Fluff! I did NOT see that ending coming by any means! Geez almighty!! 😳 Ruth Channing and would do anything to protect them - or what's left. She helps run the family's Magnolia House Bed & Breakfast getaway. Ruth's brother, Davis picks up a stranger on the side of the road, Ashley Parker. She becomes a determined guest who doesn't want to leave and mysterious in every way. And soon people start to die, after her arrival. What could be happening and who is Ashley? Holy baby fluff! I just.. I thought I knew.. but NO! I can't even .. speechless! 😳
Thank you to NetGalley and Orangesky Audio for this #ARC
Release date: January 31, 2022
I give this 4 / 5 snowflakes! ❄️
Holy Mother Fluff! I did NOT see that ending coming by any means! Geez almighty!! 😳 Ruth Channing and would do anything to protect them - or what's left. She helps run the family's Magnolia House Bed & Breakfast getaway. Ruth's brother, Davis picks up a stranger on the side of the road, Ashley Parker. She becomes a determined guest who doesn't want to leave and mysterious in every way. And soon people start to die, after her arrival. What could be happening and who is Ashley? Holy baby fluff! I just.. I thought I knew.. but NO! I can't even .. speechless! 😳
Thank you to NetGalley and Orangesky Audio for this #ARC
Release date: January 31, 2022
I give this 4 / 5 snowflakes! ❄️
January 28, 2022
Passerby was a quick, low key funny, fast paced thriller. The narration was great and certain parts made me chuckle.
There were definitely some twists I didn’t see coming. I think Kill Sleep Repeat is still probably my favorite book by Britney King but she never disappoints and always gives us some twists, bad ass women, some sex and seduction and women using their looks and brains to get their way.
Ruth runs her family’s bed and breakfast and guests are disappearing and dropping like flies. She gets almost run off the road twice. Her brother is being shady and so is his new girlfriend. You have separate chapters of the killer disguised and don’t find out who til the end.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you for the gifted audiobook!!
There were definitely some twists I didn’t see coming. I think Kill Sleep Repeat is still probably my favorite book by Britney King but she never disappoints and always gives us some twists, bad ass women, some sex and seduction and women using their looks and brains to get their way.
Ruth runs her family’s bed and breakfast and guests are disappearing and dropping like flies. She gets almost run off the road twice. Her brother is being shady and so is his new girlfriend. You have separate chapters of the killer disguised and don’t find out who til the end.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you for the gifted audiobook!!
January 27, 2022
Okay. After reading this, I was surprised to see the author has written a lot of books. The narrator drew me in, not the story. She did such a good job I felt as if I could see her facial expressions.
I liked the main character until the neighborhood child was introduced, and at that point it went downhill for me. There are expectations of business owners and people in general that were not displayed here. I also accepted the sibling relationship, and at one point made a note to express kudos to the author. However, the transition between understanding the dynamic to oops fooled you was short-lived.
I felt the last third of the book was rushed and thrown together. Again, narrator, Almond Eastland, did a fabulous job.
Thank you NetGalley, OrangeSky Audio, and Britney King for accepting my request to read and review Passerby.
I liked the main character until the neighborhood child was introduced, and at that point it went downhill for me. There are expectations of business owners and people in general that were not displayed here. I also accepted the sibling relationship, and at one point made a note to express kudos to the author. However, the transition between understanding the dynamic to oops fooled you was short-lived.
I felt the last third of the book was rushed and thrown together. Again, narrator, Almond Eastland, did a fabulous job.
Thank you NetGalley, OrangeSky Audio, and Britney King for accepting my request to read and review Passerby.
February 3, 2022
This was short but packed with a punch! It’s just over 5 hours long and it’s a story about siblings. I guess you could say Ruth is the main character and she’s hard to like. She very prickly and doesn’t know how to hold back. She’s a hot mess and working at the families B&B.
Strange things are happening right at the beginning that keep you wondering what’s really going on. I liked the writing and Almond Eastland was the narrator, who by the way did a good job.
Thanks OrangeSky Audio via NetGalley.
Strange things are happening right at the beginning that keep you wondering what’s really going on. I liked the writing and Almond Eastland was the narrator, who by the way did a good job.
Thanks OrangeSky Audio via NetGalley.
July 20, 2021
Another 5 stars for the brilliant Britney King! I have read all of her books and keep waiting for the one to come where I have it all figured out before I get done with the book and it hasn't happened yet. She keeps me guessing until the last page every single time. The twists and turns are non-stop in this book and will keep you second guessing until the very end. You'll suspect everyone and won't trust anyone. When the truth is revealed you'll be left going OMG I never saw that coming and then you'll want more because you have to know everything even though the story is complete and all loose ends are tied up (within reason) but it's still not enough. Well done Ms. King well done.
July 19, 2021
This psychological thriller grabs your attention from the beginning. Ruth runs a bed and breakfast in the small town of Jester Falls. Someone shoots at her car and puts bullet holes in the vehicle. There are a number of murders to keep you guessing. I could not put this down until I finished reading it.
July 20, 2021
This book sucked me in at page one and kept me turning the pages. This psychological thriller was full of mystery, suspense, and twists and turns. A total unexpected shocker on the identity of the killer. Enjoyed it from the first page to the last!
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