What do you think?
Rate this book
Dr. Gretchen White #3
See It End
A cold-blooded murder. A confession. And a mystery that’s just beginning in a shocking novel of psychological suspense by the Amazon Charts and Washington Post bestselling author of A Familiar Sight.
Criminologist Dr. Gretchen White thought Detective Lauren Marconi could never cross certain lines. Then Lauren, with fresh blood on her hands, is arrested for an execution-style slaying. Even as the evidence mounts, Gretchen is convinced she’s innocent. Because Lauren would have known how to get away with murder.
Forced to team up with Lachlan Gibbs, the combative by-the-book star of Internal Affairs and Lauren’s boyfriend, Gretchen starts digging for the truth. But when she begins to uncover Lauren’s closely guarded secrets, the investigation raises more questions than answers. As Lauren’s decade-long obsession with the victim comes to light, Gretchen can’t help but doubt her own instincts.
She knows better than most that not everything is as it seems. And with Lauren’s future on the line, it’s more important than ever to see this mystery through to the end.
Criminologist Dr. Gretchen White thought Detective Lauren Marconi could never cross certain lines. Then Lauren, with fresh blood on her hands, is arrested for an execution-style slaying. Even as the evidence mounts, Gretchen is convinced she’s innocent. Because Lauren would have known how to get away with murder.
Forced to team up with Lachlan Gibbs, the combative by-the-book star of Internal Affairs and Lauren’s boyfriend, Gretchen starts digging for the truth. But when she begins to uncover Lauren’s closely guarded secrets, the investigation raises more questions than answers. As Lauren’s decade-long obsession with the victim comes to light, Gretchen can’t help but doubt her own instincts.
She knows better than most that not everything is as it seems. And with Lauren’s future on the line, it’s more important than ever to see this mystery through to the end.
377 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 18, 2023
1405 people are currently reading
4488 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 336 reviews
May 8, 2023
On EP.8 "I Must Confess..." of Novels & Nonsense we discuss under hyped authors like Brianna Labuskes and bookish confessions. Streaming on Spotify, Apple, and YouTube💖
Thank you Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an early review. IYKYK, my reviews are always honest.
4.5 rounded down
SYNOPSIS
When Detective Lauren Marconi is arrested for the murder of suspected child-abductor and pedo Owen Hayes, Dr. Gretchen White must use her special sociopath skills to find the actual killer.
MY OPINION
YEERRRRRRR!!!! After reading so many new releases from authors I like that turned out to be absolute stankers, I was holding my breath when I started this. Thankfully it was a sigh of relief, not disdain, as I absolutely powered through this book in a day. Awesome job Brianna!!! You did that.
One of my gripes with Sharon Bolton's Lacey Flint series is that I was TIREDTTTT of all the cases being personally connected to Lacey. Like there's no way homegirl has that many enemies lmao. I'm glad that Brianna chose to focus the case on Marconi (I'm sorry but I'll always read her name as macaroni) and delve into her background instead of solely focusing on Gretchen. By this point, Gretchen is an established character who has overcome her "big rock"... I would've been disappointed if this story revisited her past AGAIN. Well done. Now I'm ready for a case that revolves are Fred the cyber wizard!!
None of the characters annoyed me, which is really saying something. I enjoyed learning more about Marconi's sordid past and how it shaped her present day personality. The banter between Gretchen and Marconi's adult sleepover pall Lachlan was funny. They had great chemistry. Each character was expertly written and multi-dimensional.
Now you know I'm a hoe for a dual timeline and multiple POVs... check and check!! Oh and the chapters were short, which helped create suspense as I barrelled through this book. Similar to What Can't Be Seen, Labuskes drops baby bombshells as well. Something is ALWAYS poppin off and it keeps you guessing.
I rounded down because like book #2 the final act was just doing TEW much. I don't want to give it away, but I could've done without one of the big reveals. If the ending had been taken down two notches, I would've slapped the banger alert up faster than my dog slops his dinner.
All in all, a fun, suspenseful ride that I couldn't put down!!! I'm ready for #4 Brianna!!!! LOL
PROS AND CONS
Pros: well-written, fast-paced, suspenseful, distinct characters, multiple POVs and dual timelines (my fave), focused on Marconi's background instead of revolving around Gretchen
Cons: OTT ending, one of the big reveals was doing a lil too much for me
Thank you Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an early review. IYKYK, my reviews are always honest.
4.5 rounded down
SYNOPSIS
When Detective Lauren Marconi is arrested for the murder of suspected child-abductor and pedo Owen Hayes, Dr. Gretchen White must use her special sociopath skills to find the actual killer.
MY OPINION
YEERRRRRRR!!!! After reading so many new releases from authors I like that turned out to be absolute stankers, I was holding my breath when I started this. Thankfully it was a sigh of relief, not disdain, as I absolutely powered through this book in a day. Awesome job Brianna!!! You did that.
One of my gripes with Sharon Bolton's Lacey Flint series is that I was TIREDTTTT of all the cases being personally connected to Lacey. Like there's no way homegirl has that many enemies lmao. I'm glad that Brianna chose to focus the case on Marconi (I'm sorry but I'll always read her name as macaroni) and delve into her background instead of solely focusing on Gretchen. By this point, Gretchen is an established character who has overcome her "big rock"... I would've been disappointed if this story revisited her past AGAIN. Well done. Now I'm ready for a case that revolves are Fred the cyber wizard!!
None of the characters annoyed me, which is really saying something. I enjoyed learning more about Marconi's sordid past and how it shaped her present day personality. The banter between Gretchen and Marconi's adult sleepover pall Lachlan was funny. They had great chemistry. Each character was expertly written and multi-dimensional.
Now you know I'm a hoe for a dual timeline and multiple POVs... check and check!! Oh and the chapters were short, which helped create suspense as I barrelled through this book. Similar to What Can't Be Seen, Labuskes drops baby bombshells as well. Something is ALWAYS poppin off and it keeps you guessing.
I rounded down because like book #2 the final act was just doing TEW much. I don't want to give it away, but I could've done without one of the big reveals. If the ending had been taken down two notches, I would've slapped the banger alert up faster than my dog slops his dinner.
All in all, a fun, suspenseful ride that I couldn't put down!!! I'm ready for #4 Brianna!!!! LOL
PROS AND CONS
Pros: well-written, fast-paced, suspenseful, distinct characters, multiple POVs and dual timelines (my fave), focused on Marconi's background instead of revolving around Gretchen
Cons: OTT ending, one of the big reveals was doing a lil too much for me
April 25, 2023
Another day, another series
SUMMARY:
Gretchen is a consultant for the Bostson Police Department. One day after she finishes her date, she finds her friend Lauren Marconi, who works as a homicide detective, approaching her with hands full of blood, and Lauren asks to promise her "Don't investigate". Then, not long after that, Lauren is arrested by police for murdering someone, but Gretchen is convinced that her friend is hiding something, so in order to prove Lauren innocent, she begins to investigate the case. As she starts digging for the truth, it turns out that something is hiding behind the darkness...
👁️🗨️ This story is told in third person POV alternate among (Gretchen, Lauren, and Martha)
🕰️ There are Multiple Timelines in
here.(Before, Then, and Now)
MY THOUGHTS:
📌 I urge you to read this series in order if you want to totally understand and not miss anything from each character's backstory.
📌 At the beginning of the book, I couldn't connect with the story (my brain was miles away from my kindle), so I had to re-read some chapters again, but even after re-reading it, I felt like I was missing something.
However, once I understood the main case here, it began to be more exciting. Though the multiple timelines were messing with my mind, but it was still okay.
📌 Though this book has 377 pages (Kindle version), I did not feel it was long or even boring.
📌I loved the plot, and the execution was great; it totally lived up to my expectations when I picked up this book. Twist after twist is served right into the pages. There were things that caught me off guard.
I really thought it would be an easy-to-read book with a simple case and a predictable twist, but hell no!
📌 Also, every character had their own important role and a balance portion; even their kids played as a very important clue and twist. Nothing is unlikeable character in here, well...despite the bad guys.
📌 For me, the ending was satisfying, and justice was well served.
MY PROBLEM:
⚠️ I wish I had read this series in order so I could fully understand the characters, because I wanted to know them better. So maybe I could give it a higher rating than 3 stars, but these 'puzzled' feelings stopped me from rating it higher.
EXTRA THOUGHT:
There is one character named Lauren Marconi, and whenever her name is written on the page, I kept pronouncing it as macaroni. Now I'm thinking maybe I should cook my macaroni that have been lying on my kitchen counter for a while.(I have to check out the exp date first🤣)
CREDIT:
Thank you NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer, for providing me with this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
🐥
SUMMARY:
Gretchen is a consultant for the Bostson Police Department. One day after she finishes her date, she finds her friend Lauren Marconi, who works as a homicide detective, approaching her with hands full of blood, and Lauren asks to promise her "Don't investigate". Then, not long after that, Lauren is arrested by police for murdering someone, but Gretchen is convinced that her friend is hiding something, so in order to prove Lauren innocent, she begins to investigate the case. As she starts digging for the truth, it turns out that something is hiding behind the darkness...
👁️🗨️ This story is told in third person POV alternate among (Gretchen, Lauren, and Martha)
🕰️ There are Multiple Timelines in
here.(Before, Then, and Now)
MY THOUGHTS:
📌 I urge you to read this series in order if you want to totally understand and not miss anything from each character's backstory.
📌 At the beginning of the book, I couldn't connect with the story (my brain was miles away from my kindle), so I had to re-read some chapters again, but even after re-reading it, I felt like I was missing something.
However, once I understood the main case here, it began to be more exciting. Though the multiple timelines were messing with my mind, but it was still okay.
📌 Though this book has 377 pages (Kindle version), I did not feel it was long or even boring.
📌I loved the plot, and the execution was great; it totally lived up to my expectations when I picked up this book. Twist after twist is served right into the pages. There were things that caught me off guard.
I really thought it would be an easy-to-read book with a simple case and a predictable twist, but hell no!
📌 Also, every character had their own important role and a balance portion; even their kids played as a very important clue and twist. Nothing is unlikeable character in here, well...despite the bad guys.
📌 For me, the ending was satisfying, and justice was well served.
MY PROBLEM:
⚠️ I wish I had read this series in order so I could fully understand the characters, because I wanted to know them better. So maybe I could give it a higher rating than 3 stars, but these 'puzzled' feelings stopped me from rating it higher.
EXTRA THOUGHT:
There is one character named Lauren Marconi, and whenever her name is written on the page, I kept pronouncing it as macaroni. Now I'm thinking maybe I should cook my macaroni that have been lying on my kitchen counter for a while.(I have to check out the exp date first🤣)
CREDIT:
Thank you NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer, for providing me with this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
🐥
May 24, 2023
Over the past two years, Dr. Gretchen White, consulting psychologist/criminologist for the Boston Police Department as well as a self-diagnosed sociopath, has found herself growing closer and closer to Detective Lauren Marconi. She might even consider her a friend. So, when Gretchen finds Lauren waiting for her with blood literally on her hands, she is surprised. Not by the possibility that Lauren could have committed a execution-style murder, but that she got caught. After all, she should know every trick in the book thanks to her line of work.
Vacillating between worries about living her life without the human guardrail that is Lauren and the honest-to-goodness fear for her friend’s life, Gretchen realizes that the only person she can turn to for help is Lauren’s Internal Affairs boyfriend, Lachlan Gibbs. But, between his black-and-white approach to life and the mistrust that flows between Lachlan and Gretchen, he’s not exactly the first person she would naturally turn to. Especially once he voices concerns that perhaps Gretchen is simply in denial with respect to Lauren’s supposed innocence. She is, in his mind, the one person that all of the evidence fits. For Gretchen, however, she wonders if it all fits just a bit too well.
Secret after secret, Gretchen slowly begins to unearth all that Lauren has hidden from her over the course of their friendship. Despite this, however, Gretchen is still certain of her friend’s innocence. Perhaps she can’t voice exactly why she’s so sure, but her gut says this is nothing more than a frame job or a happy coincidence for the real murderer. Until Gretchen learns about the decades long obsession Lauren has had with the victim. Could she actually have been wrong for once in her career? Is Lauren really guilty after all?
Regardless of the outcome, however, Gretchen refuses to give up without getting to the bare facts. If there’s one thing she can’t walk away from after all, it’s a mystery that makes her skin tingle with curiosity. Besides, Gretchen, perhaps better than anyone, knows that assumptions can be wrong. They can even send an innocent person to prison for life.
Holy guacamole! I honestly think See It End was the best I’ve read by Brianna Labuskes. And that’s saying something. A sobering mix of a hard-hitting, gritty subject matter and flawed but genuine characters, which was completely spellbinding, I’m going to truly miss see Gretchen White if this is indeed the last of the series.
Perhaps my favorite part of this entire series, though, was the main character. While I had already fallen in love with Gretchen’s straight-forward, near emotionlessness ways in the previous two books, this one showed a side to her that I was surprised by, a core of empathy (tinged with her trademark sociopathic ways, of course). On top of her sharp tongue and cutting remarks, she actually cared what happened to Lauren, and not simply to keep her as her metaphorical guardrail. This rounded out her character into one that I can easily say is my favorite of any I’ve read without a doubt.
But she’s not, by any means, the only strong character in this addictive, potential slump destroying novel. When I discovered that Lauren, while playing a central role to the plot, would not actually an active participant, I feared that the hallmark dry, sarcastic humor would be missing. Considering this was also one of my favorite attributes in Labuskes novels (it happily isn’t limited to this series), I was overjoyed to find it replicated within the relationship between Lachlan and Gretchen. Outside of Lachlan, who was a delightful foil to our dear sociopath, the various other characters were brilliantly drawn and left me fully satisfied. And, despite the rather large cast, I wasn’t confused or lost once. Boisterous hand clapping for that one.
And then there were the twists. With each one, the story morphed into a more complex, mind-boggling creature that revealed monster after monster and left me reeling. But only in the best possible way, of course. Topping off this incredible feat was the kiss-worthy climax that was riveting without being over-the-top in the slightest. Quite the master stroke, to be sure. The only aspect I didn’t love was the ending. Not that it was lacking in any way, but because it wrapped up the whole series so well that I have a sinking feeling that I won’t be lucky enough to read a fourth book in the Dr. Gretchen White series. Hopefully I’ll be proven wrong.
All said and done, I couldn’t have fallen more in love with a book if I tried. I mean, I couldn’t even guess who the murderer was. And I took notes! Equal parts crime fiction and psychological thriller, it began with a slow burn start which was only transformed into a rip roaring inferno of suspense. Even when I thought I’d put all the pieces together and worked out the who’s, the what’s, and the why’s, I found myself shocked by the conclusion as nothing is as it seems in this dialogue-driven, sweaty palms inducing, mindgame of a book. If you haven’t picked up a novel by Brianna Labuskes yet, this is your bullhorn of a suggestion to grab one as soon as you can. You won’t be disappointed. Rating of 5+ stars.
Thank you Thomas & Mercer, Brianna Labuskes, and NetGalley for this amazing ARC.
Trigger warning: child abduction, miscarriage, infidelity, spousal abuse, controlling relationship, pedophilia mention of: drug addiction, suicide
Vacillating between worries about living her life without the human guardrail that is Lauren and the honest-to-goodness fear for her friend’s life, Gretchen realizes that the only person she can turn to for help is Lauren’s Internal Affairs boyfriend, Lachlan Gibbs. But, between his black-and-white approach to life and the mistrust that flows between Lachlan and Gretchen, he’s not exactly the first person she would naturally turn to. Especially once he voices concerns that perhaps Gretchen is simply in denial with respect to Lauren’s supposed innocence. She is, in his mind, the one person that all of the evidence fits. For Gretchen, however, she wonders if it all fits just a bit too well.
Secret after secret, Gretchen slowly begins to unearth all that Lauren has hidden from her over the course of their friendship. Despite this, however, Gretchen is still certain of her friend’s innocence. Perhaps she can’t voice exactly why she’s so sure, but her gut says this is nothing more than a frame job or a happy coincidence for the real murderer. Until Gretchen learns about the decades long obsession Lauren has had with the victim. Could she actually have been wrong for once in her career? Is Lauren really guilty after all?
Regardless of the outcome, however, Gretchen refuses to give up without getting to the bare facts. If there’s one thing she can’t walk away from after all, it’s a mystery that makes her skin tingle with curiosity. Besides, Gretchen, perhaps better than anyone, knows that assumptions can be wrong. They can even send an innocent person to prison for life.
Holy guacamole! I honestly think See It End was the best I’ve read by Brianna Labuskes. And that’s saying something. A sobering mix of a hard-hitting, gritty subject matter and flawed but genuine characters, which was completely spellbinding, I’m going to truly miss see Gretchen White if this is indeed the last of the series.
Perhaps my favorite part of this entire series, though, was the main character. While I had already fallen in love with Gretchen’s straight-forward, near emotionlessness ways in the previous two books, this one showed a side to her that I was surprised by, a core of empathy (tinged with her trademark sociopathic ways, of course). On top of her sharp tongue and cutting remarks, she actually cared what happened to Lauren, and not simply to keep her as her metaphorical guardrail. This rounded out her character into one that I can easily say is my favorite of any I’ve read without a doubt.
But she’s not, by any means, the only strong character in this addictive, potential slump destroying novel. When I discovered that Lauren, while playing a central role to the plot, would not actually an active participant, I feared that the hallmark dry, sarcastic humor would be missing. Considering this was also one of my favorite attributes in Labuskes novels (it happily isn’t limited to this series), I was overjoyed to find it replicated within the relationship between Lachlan and Gretchen. Outside of Lachlan, who was a delightful foil to our dear sociopath, the various other characters were brilliantly drawn and left me fully satisfied. And, despite the rather large cast, I wasn’t confused or lost once. Boisterous hand clapping for that one.
And then there were the twists. With each one, the story morphed into a more complex, mind-boggling creature that revealed monster after monster and left me reeling. But only in the best possible way, of course. Topping off this incredible feat was the kiss-worthy climax that was riveting without being over-the-top in the slightest. Quite the master stroke, to be sure. The only aspect I didn’t love was the ending. Not that it was lacking in any way, but because it wrapped up the whole series so well that I have a sinking feeling that I won’t be lucky enough to read a fourth book in the Dr. Gretchen White series. Hopefully I’ll be proven wrong.
All said and done, I couldn’t have fallen more in love with a book if I tried. I mean, I couldn’t even guess who the murderer was. And I took notes! Equal parts crime fiction and psychological thriller, it began with a slow burn start which was only transformed into a rip roaring inferno of suspense. Even when I thought I’d put all the pieces together and worked out the who’s, the what’s, and the why’s, I found myself shocked by the conclusion as nothing is as it seems in this dialogue-driven, sweaty palms inducing, mindgame of a book. If you haven’t picked up a novel by Brianna Labuskes yet, this is your bullhorn of a suggestion to grab one as soon as you can. You won’t be disappointed. Rating of 5+ stars.
Thank you Thomas & Mercer, Brianna Labuskes, and NetGalley for this amazing ARC.
Trigger warning: child abduction, miscarriage, infidelity, spousal abuse, controlling relationship, pedophilia mention of: drug addiction, suicide
May 25, 2023
Boston Police Department Detective Lauren Marconi was waiting outside the restaurant where she knew her friend and coworker, Dr. Gretchen White, the criminologist, was having dinner. With literal blood on her hands, her shirt, and under her nails, Lauren confessed to killing Owen Hayes. Hayes was a man she long suspected to be the one who kidnapped and killed her young son, Elijah, and many other young boys between the ages of seven and nine as well; however, he always had a convenient alibi as to why he was in the same place at the same time. Lauren asked Gretchen to leave it alone, and to promise she wouldn’t investigate, confessing to killing Hayes execution-style, with two bullets to the back of his skull. Leaving Gretchen, Lauren went directly to the head of Internal Affairs and confessed. Enlisting the help of Lauren’s boyfriend, Lachlan Gibbs, Detective of Internal Affairs and straight-arrow, Gretchen set out to investigate in order to clear Lauren of the charges. Gretchen insisted that if Lauren really did kill Hayes, there is no way anyone would have known, nor would she have blood on her the way she did. After all, Lauren was a homicide detective and knew how to kill a man without a trace. Once Gretchen is forced to dig in to Lauren’s secrets, she begins to doubt herself, as it seems she’s uncovering more questions than answers. However, Gretchen knows better than most that not everything is as it seems, and Lauren’s future depends on her seeing this investigation through to the end.
“See It End” is another well-written, exciting, action-packed thriller/police procedural from author Brianna Labuskes. The characters are well-developed, and the dialog is believable, plus there are twists, turns, and red herrings to keep the reader guessing. Dr. Gretchen White is a fascinating character, complex, dramatic, and realistic, Lachlan is a pretty wishy-washy boyfriend though, in my opinion. He is more concerned with watching his own back and not bending any rules than about the woman he supposedly loves. If not for his badge, I doubt Gretchen and Lachlan would have ever teamed up together; Gretchen has a fabulous network of contacts that provide all of the information she needs! Gretchen may have her own psychopathy, but she certainly has a soft spot for Lauren, who has never given up on Gretchen and found a way to work quite well with her, developing a bond that Gretchen honors. I was definitely hooked from the beginning, throughout the changing of characters with the chapters and the back and forth between present and past. That doesn’t always work for me, but I found it worked very well here. I would highly recommend this work to fans of thrillers and police procedurals. Though this was Book 3 of the Dr. Gretchen White series, it was the first I’ve read and worked exceptionally well as a stand alone.
I’d like to thank NetGalley, Brianna Labuskes, and Thomas and Mercer for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
“See It End” is another well-written, exciting, action-packed thriller/police procedural from author Brianna Labuskes. The characters are well-developed, and the dialog is believable, plus there are twists, turns, and red herrings to keep the reader guessing. Dr. Gretchen White is a fascinating character, complex, dramatic, and realistic, Lachlan is a pretty wishy-washy boyfriend though, in my opinion. He is more concerned with watching his own back and not bending any rules than about the woman he supposedly loves. If not for his badge, I doubt Gretchen and Lachlan would have ever teamed up together; Gretchen has a fabulous network of contacts that provide all of the information she needs! Gretchen may have her own psychopathy, but she certainly has a soft spot for Lauren, who has never given up on Gretchen and found a way to work quite well with her, developing a bond that Gretchen honors. I was definitely hooked from the beginning, throughout the changing of characters with the chapters and the back and forth between present and past. That doesn’t always work for me, but I found it worked very well here. I would highly recommend this work to fans of thrillers and police procedurals. Though this was Book 3 of the Dr. Gretchen White series, it was the first I’ve read and worked exceptionally well as a stand alone.
I’d like to thank NetGalley, Brianna Labuskes, and Thomas and Mercer for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
July 14, 2024
I didn't really expect this series about a non-violent sociopath to be about the importance of female friendships, but I'm here for it.
January 17, 2024
This is the third installment in the Dr Gretchen White series. Gretchen is a snarky, narcissistic, sociopathic, forensic psychologist consultant for the Boston PD, who over the course of the series has become friends with Det Lauren Marconi. The book summary introduces the primary storyline of Lauren being arrested for the murder of Owen Hayes. What the book summary doesn’t say is that Lauren suspected that Hayes was a pedophile who kidnapped and killed her son nine years earlier and that she has been stalking him ever since. While Gretchen was surprised that Lauren had a son, she is actually more concerned that Lauren allowed herself to get caught for the killing. Yeah, that’s just Gretchen’s sociopathic personality showing.
There is also a secondary storyline of Gretchen allowing Lauren’s %^ buddy, Lachlin Gibbs, to tag along with her while she investigates the killing because as a cop, he can be useful to her. That would be Gretchen’s narcissistic tendency rearing its ugly head. One of the things that I have always loved about Gretchen is her award-winning snark – IT’S HILARIOUS!!! Way too many times, Labuskes had me cracking up over the interactions between Gretchen and Lachlin. I also loved how Labuskes revealed a different side of Gretchen that we didn’t really get to see in the first two installments and that was Gretchen’s concern and fondness for Lauren and her dedication in proving that Lauren didn’t kill Hayes, she was framed for it.
The story flips back and forth between nine years ago when Lauren’s son, Elijah, went missing and Lauren suspecting Hayes and present day with Gretchen and Lachlin investigating Lauren’s past and the present-day murder. The chapters also flip back and forth between Gretchen (present), Lauren (past), and Martha (past), Hayes wife. Most of the story builds up to the murder as well as Gretchen and Lachlin getting deeper and deeper into the investigation, the numerous suspects as well as Lauren’s involvement.
This was my fave installment of the series because of the revelations that Labuskes revealed about Lauren’s past and Gretchen’s feelings. Based on the end of the investigation and outcome, it seemed like this was the end of the series, and then there was that last sentence of the book!!! Hmmm…..
There is also a secondary storyline of Gretchen allowing Lauren’s %^ buddy, Lachlin Gibbs, to tag along with her while she investigates the killing because as a cop, he can be useful to her. That would be Gretchen’s narcissistic tendency rearing its ugly head. One of the things that I have always loved about Gretchen is her award-winning snark – IT’S HILARIOUS!!! Way too many times, Labuskes had me cracking up over the interactions between Gretchen and Lachlin. I also loved how Labuskes revealed a different side of Gretchen that we didn’t really get to see in the first two installments and that was Gretchen’s concern and fondness for Lauren and her dedication in proving that Lauren didn’t kill Hayes, she was framed for it.
The story flips back and forth between nine years ago when Lauren’s son, Elijah, went missing and Lauren suspecting Hayes and present day with Gretchen and Lachlin investigating Lauren’s past and the present-day murder. The chapters also flip back and forth between Gretchen (present), Lauren (past), and Martha (past), Hayes wife. Most of the story builds up to the murder as well as Gretchen and Lachlin getting deeper and deeper into the investigation, the numerous suspects as well as Lauren’s involvement.
This was my fave installment of the series because of the revelations that Labuskes revealed about Lauren’s past and Gretchen’s feelings. Based on the end of the investigation and outcome, it seemed like this was the end of the series, and then there was that last sentence of the book!!! Hmmm…..
May 22, 2023
At first there are too many characters and time shifts ... gradually I began to remember some (but not all) of the links ... and then, with the novel following the pattern and uncertainties of a complex detective investigation, questions are answered ... the pace quickens and the ending is superb ... emotion is literally wrenched from people who barely seem to have feelings, at least not normal feelings
October 6, 2022
A cold-blooded murder. A confession. And a mystery that’s just beginning in a shocking novel of psychological suspense by the Amazon Charts and Washington Post bestselling author of A Familiar Sight. Criminologist Dr. Gretchen White thought Detective Lauren Marconi could never cross certain lines. Then Lauren, with fresh blood on her hands, is arrested for an execution-style slaying. Even as the evidence mounts, Gretchen is convinced she’s innocent. Because Lauren would have known how to get away with murder.
Absolutely loved it, another great book featuring Gretchen White and Lauren Marconi. Fantastic story that is gripping and suspenseful. Love the development of the relationship between Gretchen and Lauren along with Lauren's boyfriend Lachlan. These characters grow wonderfully as each book progresses and I really like spending time with them. Was on the edge of my seat right until the end as I could not work out who the killer was, very suspenceful stuff. If you have not read any of this series you really should, highly recommended
Absolutely loved it, another great book featuring Gretchen White and Lauren Marconi. Fantastic story that is gripping and suspenseful. Love the development of the relationship between Gretchen and Lauren along with Lauren's boyfriend Lachlan. These characters grow wonderfully as each book progresses and I really like spending time with them. Was on the edge of my seat right until the end as I could not work out who the killer was, very suspenceful stuff. If you have not read any of this series you really should, highly recommended
April 23, 2023
This series is just...wow. I loved seeing a (slightly) softer side of Gretchen in this book, and the progression of her friendship with Lauren. As usual, the plot kept me guessing, and I was riveted to see how it would all end. Highly recommend!
May 16, 2023
As far as I am concerned, See It End by Brianna Labuskes is the best book yet in the Dr. Gretchen White series, and it was so full of twists and turns that it left my head spinning! In this installment, Gretchen's friend and kind-of partner Detective Lauren Marconi is accused of murder and Gretchen is convinced she is innocent, so she is on the hunt to prove it. This means we take a deep dive into Marconi's past, specifically the disappearance of someone very close to her. There were a lot of moving parts, but it was never hard to keep track of even with viewpoints switching between Gretchen, Martha, and Lauren in the past. Labuskes did an excellent job of building suspense throughout the book and packed in plenty of action as well.
This time the audiobook is narrated solely by Kate Marcin due to having 3 female viewpoints, and while she doesn't really differentiate with her voice in between them all, I still loved having her as the narrator and I was fine with it. These characters are all so different as they are written that it isn't hard to follow along with which viewpoint you are in even with one narrator. I am not even exaggerating when I say See It End shook me to my core and for me, it was also one of the most emotional storylines of the series. Lauren and Gretchen are both whip-smart and self-assured, and definitely 2 of my favorite fictional characters. I highly recommend this entire series, especially in order, if you enjoy getting to know individual characters very well and suspenseful mysteries that make sense.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This time the audiobook is narrated solely by Kate Marcin due to having 3 female viewpoints, and while she doesn't really differentiate with her voice in between them all, I still loved having her as the narrator and I was fine with it. These characters are all so different as they are written that it isn't hard to follow along with which viewpoint you are in even with one narrator. I am not even exaggerating when I say See It End shook me to my core and for me, it was also one of the most emotional storylines of the series. Lauren and Gretchen are both whip-smart and self-assured, and definitely 2 of my favorite fictional characters. I highly recommend this entire series, especially in order, if you enjoy getting to know individual characters very well and suspenseful mysteries that make sense.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
April 6, 2025
It’s been a minute since I’ve stayed up past my bedtime to finish a book and now I’m sad that this story is over. Highly recommend!
January 5, 2023
My favourite sociopath is back on the scene and I couldn't be more excited.
When Det. Lauren Marconi is found guilty of murder - one that she herself has owned up to - criminologist and self-confessed sociopath Dr. Gretchen White refuses to accept it. After all, had an astute detective like Marconi been the killer, she never would have gotten caught. She decides to get to the root of the case and dives headfirst into Lauren's past that is mired in secrets, stalkery and serial killers.
I cannot stress enough how much I have enjoyed each book in the Gretchen White series. Gretchen's sarcasm is hilarious and her thought process - a sociopath trying to fit into normal society - is fascinating. If I thought Gretchen's banter with Shaughnessy and Marconi in the previous books were engaging, the verbal exchange between her and the strait-laced Lachlan were downright laudable. Though I was familiar with the author's flair for suspense build-up and multiple plot twists from her previous books, I must say that she has simply outdone herself in this one.
While the previous books portrayed Gretchen as a stoic sociopath with no emotional connection to anyone, Book 3 reveals a more evolved Gretchen - fiercely loyal to her friend Lauren to the point of bending rules and breaking the law to prove her innocence - albeit with the same sting and sarcasm in her words.
Overall, a fantastic sequel to a brilliant series. Thanks to Netgalley and Thomas & Mercer for providing a digital copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
When Det. Lauren Marconi is found guilty of murder - one that she herself has owned up to - criminologist and self-confessed sociopath Dr. Gretchen White refuses to accept it. After all, had an astute detective like Marconi been the killer, she never would have gotten caught. She decides to get to the root of the case and dives headfirst into Lauren's past that is mired in secrets, stalkery and serial killers.
I cannot stress enough how much I have enjoyed each book in the Gretchen White series. Gretchen's sarcasm is hilarious and her thought process - a sociopath trying to fit into normal society - is fascinating. If I thought Gretchen's banter with Shaughnessy and Marconi in the previous books were engaging, the verbal exchange between her and the strait-laced Lachlan were downright laudable. Though I was familiar with the author's flair for suspense build-up and multiple plot twists from her previous books, I must say that she has simply outdone herself in this one.
While the previous books portrayed Gretchen as a stoic sociopath with no emotional connection to anyone, Book 3 reveals a more evolved Gretchen - fiercely loyal to her friend Lauren to the point of bending rules and breaking the law to prove her innocence - albeit with the same sting and sarcasm in her words.
Overall, a fantastic sequel to a brilliant series. Thanks to Netgalley and Thomas & Mercer for providing a digital copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
October 5, 2022
For a full breakdown, check out my review (linked at the bottom of this post)
WHAT I LIKED:
✅ Dual Timelines. They told the story through Lauren Marconi (Read: Macaroni) perspective in the past, more specifically in the days leading up to the crime and through Gretchen's perspective as she tried to solve the crime in the current timeline. Dual timelines can be tricky to achieve, but Brianna Labuskes masterfully navigated her way through both timelines; dropping subtle hints as she went.
✅ The Suspense was suspensing. I really had no idea, up until the last few chapters of the book, who actually committed the murder. I couldn't figure out if it was Lauren or if some other convoluted plot had occurred that just put Lauren in the wrong place at the wrong time. Even when I did figure out who it was, the how and the why kept me turning the pages until the very end.
✅ Fast-Paced. Now when I tell you this book hooked me from the first line, I kid you not. Homegirl was thinking about slicing some poor guy's carotid artery during their date. I've been on a boring date or two myself in my day, but sheesh ma'am! Pump the brakes a little! The story took off running from the first word and didn't stop until the end. I appreciate stories that can hold my attention, because it is incredibly short. Think: small squirrel with ADHD. If you can't get to the point in as few words as possible, I am GONE. I have to be in the mood for a slow-burn.
Full Review Here:
https://www.thebookybabe.com/post/unc...
WHAT I LIKED:
✅ Dual Timelines. They told the story through Lauren Marconi (Read: Macaroni) perspective in the past, more specifically in the days leading up to the crime and through Gretchen's perspective as she tried to solve the crime in the current timeline. Dual timelines can be tricky to achieve, but Brianna Labuskes masterfully navigated her way through both timelines; dropping subtle hints as she went.
✅ The Suspense was suspensing. I really had no idea, up until the last few chapters of the book, who actually committed the murder. I couldn't figure out if it was Lauren or if some other convoluted plot had occurred that just put Lauren in the wrong place at the wrong time. Even when I did figure out who it was, the how and the why kept me turning the pages until the very end.
✅ Fast-Paced. Now when I tell you this book hooked me from the first line, I kid you not. Homegirl was thinking about slicing some poor guy's carotid artery during their date. I've been on a boring date or two myself in my day, but sheesh ma'am! Pump the brakes a little! The story took off running from the first word and didn't stop until the end. I appreciate stories that can hold my attention, because it is incredibly short. Think: small squirrel with ADHD. If you can't get to the point in as few words as possible, I am GONE. I have to be in the mood for a slow-burn.
Full Review Here:
https://www.thebookybabe.com/post/unc...
October 18, 2023
I really need this book series to continue but I am really enjoying the banter between the detective and Dr. Gretchen. This series has the potential to be as long as the Temperance Breanan series.
April 22, 2023
This one makes me want to go back and read the first 2 to look for hints. The back and forth between the past and the present would at times throw me while I listened to the audio. I liked learning more about Lauren's life, more about how she became the woman we knew, even as it broke my heart what she went through. I thought Gretchen did a good job of trying to help Lauren out, while figured out just what was going on. The ending made me sad, I hated how an evil person did what they did and all the damage they caused. I just hope that 3 of the lives touched can move forward.
April 25, 2023
3.75 stars
I really enjoy the story in See It End, the plot and the twist might not be so perfect but it was entertaining. The only bad thing about this book is Brianna Labuskes’s portrayal of Gretchen White. I mean, Gretchen’s character is a good and interesting one and I really like her. But Labuskes try too hard to make Gretchen looks cool, tough and psychopath that most of the time she sounds like a petulant teen than a brilliant criminal psychologist. Please, Miss Labuskes…be more subtle in painting your MC’s personality. Sometimes less is really more.
I really enjoy the story in See It End, the plot and the twist might not be so perfect but it was entertaining. The only bad thing about this book is Brianna Labuskes’s portrayal of Gretchen White. I mean, Gretchen’s character is a good and interesting one and I really like her. But Labuskes try too hard to make Gretchen looks cool, tough and psychopath that most of the time she sounds like a petulant teen than a brilliant criminal psychologist. Please, Miss Labuskes…be more subtle in painting your MC’s personality. Sometimes less is really more.
April 30, 2023
Another terrific novel in this series. Brianna Labuskes is the QUEEN of keeping you guessing until the end.
The intricate plotting, twists and turns, and breakneck pace kept me on my toes the entire time. I'm sad to see this series end, but it's been an incredible ride.
The intricate plotting, twists and turns, and breakneck pace kept me on my toes the entire time. I'm sad to see this series end, but it's been an incredible ride.
October 30, 2024
This has been my audiobook series and I am sad to see it end. I also did not predict the plot twists in this one!
April 5, 2023
See It End is a tense drama of a murder committed and confessed to. But criminologist and sociopath, Dr. Gretchen White, doesn't believe Detective Marconi would commit such a sloppy crime. In an unemotional effort to prove her friends innocence, Gretchen sets out on a path to discover the psychology and the history behind Lauren's reasons for wanting this man dead. Using a nonlinear structure, Labuskes takes the reader back to the beginning when the characters first meet and where Lauren's suspicions find their foundation. The author gradually builds this thrilling mystery of what happened using the determination of her sociopathic heroine. The end is truly a surprise series of events. I am hooked on reading more of Dr. Gretchen White's adventures in criminology.
#thankyouNETGALLEYforthismustreaARC! Huge thanks to Thomas & Mercer as well.
#thankyouNETGALLEYforthismustreaARC! Huge thanks to Thomas & Mercer as well.
March 28, 2023
I’ve read the first book in this series and now I really need to go back and catch up with the ones in between these stories.
The writing is amazing and draws you in from the first page and the story is so addictive that I had to read it in one sitting.
Gretchen and Lauren become more close than never when Lauren is hold up for murder and Gretchen must find the real killer. But it’s not that easy as she thinks it would be. She has to work alongside Lauren’s boyfriend and also abide by the rules while other colleagues have their eyes on her.
It’s so suspenseful and there are so many views and small pieces and clues left throughout each chapter for the readers to make their own assumptions. So cleverly done.
Unmissable thriller that will pump your adrenaline for a great rollercoaster ride.
Very grateful to the publisher for my review copy
The writing is amazing and draws you in from the first page and the story is so addictive that I had to read it in one sitting.
Gretchen and Lauren become more close than never when Lauren is hold up for murder and Gretchen must find the real killer. But it’s not that easy as she thinks it would be. She has to work alongside Lauren’s boyfriend and also abide by the rules while other colleagues have their eyes on her.
It’s so suspenseful and there are so many views and small pieces and clues left throughout each chapter for the readers to make their own assumptions. So cleverly done.
Unmissable thriller that will pump your adrenaline for a great rollercoaster ride.
Very grateful to the publisher for my review copy
August 22, 2023
Brianne Labruskes tells wonderfully twisted, complex stories that keep my opinions and suspicions shifting and change my understanding of and sympathy for the main characters.
She did this so well in 'A Familiar Sight', the first book in this series that I spent an entire weekend mesmerised by it. It was fresh and original, brilliantly told in lean focused prose, full of surprises and it had a main character, Dr Gretchen White, who was unashamedly different – a ‘voluntarily non-violent’ sociopath. And she was the one investigating the murders, not committing them. The relationship that built up between her and her Police Detective ‘babysitter’ Lauren Marconi was one of the strengths of the book. Marconi’s ability to see beyond White’s reputation and her outward aggression and to build a basis for trust gave emotional depth to the bookt.
The next book, 'What Can't Be Seen' was equally well-written and plotted but changed things up by putting White under so much pressure that she was likely to crack, by straining Marconi’s trust in White and by revealing a backstory that made me question everything I thought I’d learned about Gretchen White in the first book.
It was good but exhausting and it left me wondering what new twist a third book could offer that wouldn't just rake over old ground.
Brianne Labruskes had that all figured out. 'See It End' starts with Marconi turning herself in for murder and telling White not to investigate. Yeah, like that was ever going to happen.
Marconi in the frame for murder acted as a springboard for jumping in to a fast-paced page-turner mystery unveiled from three points of view: White is at the centre of the NOW timeline, trying to save Marconi even though or perhaps because Marconi asked her not to; A younger Marconi, a police officer still in uniform in Vermont is at the centre of the THEN timeline and Martha, the wife of one of the key suspects, is the focus of the BEFORE timeline.
It's a sign of Brianna Labuskes' skill that I was never confused by what was going on but my head was spinning at all the possibilities. Was Marconi guilty and if so why did she do it? How would the three timelines come together. What was Martha's agenda? Would White finally go too far and do things that she shouldn't to exonerate Marconi regardless of the facts. I had as much fun thinking about where the book might go as I did finding out where it actually went.
I admired that, while delivering a plot with more twists than straight lines, Brianna Labuskes preserved that consistency and integrity of the characters. What I learned changed my understanding of them but it felt like getting to know someone better rather feeling that I'd never known them at all.
This was a very entertaining thriller trilogy that 'See It End' did justice to.
I'm a confirmed Brianna Labuskes fan now. I've already ordered, 'The Lies You Wrote', the first book in a series about FBI forensic linguist, Raisa Susanto, which is scheduled for publication on 28th November 2023.
She did this so well in 'A Familiar Sight', the first book in this series that I spent an entire weekend mesmerised by it. It was fresh and original, brilliantly told in lean focused prose, full of surprises and it had a main character, Dr Gretchen White, who was unashamedly different – a ‘voluntarily non-violent’ sociopath. And she was the one investigating the murders, not committing them. The relationship that built up between her and her Police Detective ‘babysitter’ Lauren Marconi was one of the strengths of the book. Marconi’s ability to see beyond White’s reputation and her outward aggression and to build a basis for trust gave emotional depth to the bookt.
The next book, 'What Can't Be Seen' was equally well-written and plotted but changed things up by putting White under so much pressure that she was likely to crack, by straining Marconi’s trust in White and by revealing a backstory that made me question everything I thought I’d learned about Gretchen White in the first book.
It was good but exhausting and it left me wondering what new twist a third book could offer that wouldn't just rake over old ground.
Brianne Labruskes had that all figured out. 'See It End' starts with Marconi turning herself in for murder and telling White not to investigate. Yeah, like that was ever going to happen.
Marconi in the frame for murder acted as a springboard for jumping in to a fast-paced page-turner mystery unveiled from three points of view: White is at the centre of the NOW timeline, trying to save Marconi even though or perhaps because Marconi asked her not to; A younger Marconi, a police officer still in uniform in Vermont is at the centre of the THEN timeline and Martha, the wife of one of the key suspects, is the focus of the BEFORE timeline.
It's a sign of Brianna Labuskes' skill that I was never confused by what was going on but my head was spinning at all the possibilities. Was Marconi guilty and if so why did she do it? How would the three timelines come together. What was Martha's agenda? Would White finally go too far and do things that she shouldn't to exonerate Marconi regardless of the facts. I had as much fun thinking about where the book might go as I did finding out where it actually went.
I admired that, while delivering a plot with more twists than straight lines, Brianna Labuskes preserved that consistency and integrity of the characters. What I learned changed my understanding of them but it felt like getting to know someone better rather feeling that I'd never known them at all.
This was a very entertaining thriller trilogy that 'See It End' did justice to.
I'm a confirmed Brianna Labuskes fan now. I've already ordered, 'The Lies You Wrote', the first book in a series about FBI forensic linguist, Raisa Susanto, which is scheduled for publication on 28th November 2023.
April 30, 2023
First thank you Netgalley for an advance copy for my honest opinion.
This book is a page-turning, can't put down, and keeps you guessing thriller.
The characters were likable and each contributed their own clues to the plat. They were well-developed.
This was my first read by this author and I will definitely be reading more.
I highly recommend this title!
This book is a page-turning, can't put down, and keeps you guessing thriller.
The characters were likable and each contributed their own clues to the plat. They were well-developed.
This was my first read by this author and I will definitely be reading more.
I highly recommend this title!
May 5, 2023
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free, electronic ARC of this novel received in exchange for an honest review.
“See It End” is the third novel in the “Dr. Gretchen White” series, by author Brianna Labuskes. As a criminologist, psychologist and certified sociopath, Gretchen has consulted on many police investigations. Using her instinct, her experience and her knowledge, there are some cases that only White can help solve. In the newest novel, White’s partner in the police force, Lauren Marconi, is arrested for a grisly murder but Gretchen seems to be the only person who knows Lauren is innocent. Forced to team up with Lauren’s partner, IA officer Lachlan Gibbs, Gretchen has more on the line than ever as she works to save her closest, and only, friend.
“See It End” is the first novel I’ve read by Labuskes, so I jumped into the Gretchen White series completely blind, without background knowledge of the characters. I was completely intrigued by the sociopath criminologist that is Dr. White, and when combined with a murder investigation police procedural? I couldn’t turn it down. That being said, I do regret not reading the other novels in the series. Although this novel was not completely unreadable, I struggled to keep up with the complicated character relationships that had been developed in the other novels.
I enjoyed the character of Gretchen, as I knew I would, and the plot was gripping and entertaining. The story is told by both Gretchen and Lauren (as well as another woman named Martha who is integral to the plot), in both the past (before Lauren is arrested) and the present. As the story develops, I found it easier to follow the plot line and was even able to relate to the female protagonists. The ending was solid, with a few openings for future novels in the series, as you’d expect.
The male suspects (Grant and Owen) had an intricate and confusing relationship, and I found the plot line with these two individuals challenging to follow. I am not sure if they were around in the other novels, but it didn’t seem like it. Labuskes seemed to throw Owen in to distract readers from the real killer, but then had to make up a complicated and detailed story line to make him fit.
Overall, Labuskes has creativity and ingenuity when it comes to plot development, and “See It End” was able to keep me engaged through to the end, even without reading the previous novels. This is one of those stories which is far more entertaining to those who have read the series in its complete and proper order. I will, however, gladly take a chance on Labuskes again, without regret.
“See It End” is the third novel in the “Dr. Gretchen White” series, by author Brianna Labuskes. As a criminologist, psychologist and certified sociopath, Gretchen has consulted on many police investigations. Using her instinct, her experience and her knowledge, there are some cases that only White can help solve. In the newest novel, White’s partner in the police force, Lauren Marconi, is arrested for a grisly murder but Gretchen seems to be the only person who knows Lauren is innocent. Forced to team up with Lauren’s partner, IA officer Lachlan Gibbs, Gretchen has more on the line than ever as she works to save her closest, and only, friend.
“See It End” is the first novel I’ve read by Labuskes, so I jumped into the Gretchen White series completely blind, without background knowledge of the characters. I was completely intrigued by the sociopath criminologist that is Dr. White, and when combined with a murder investigation police procedural? I couldn’t turn it down. That being said, I do regret not reading the other novels in the series. Although this novel was not completely unreadable, I struggled to keep up with the complicated character relationships that had been developed in the other novels.
I enjoyed the character of Gretchen, as I knew I would, and the plot was gripping and entertaining. The story is told by both Gretchen and Lauren (as well as another woman named Martha who is integral to the plot), in both the past (before Lauren is arrested) and the present. As the story develops, I found it easier to follow the plot line and was even able to relate to the female protagonists. The ending was solid, with a few openings for future novels in the series, as you’d expect.
The male suspects (Grant and Owen) had an intricate and confusing relationship, and I found the plot line with these two individuals challenging to follow. I am not sure if they were around in the other novels, but it didn’t seem like it. Labuskes seemed to throw Owen in to distract readers from the real killer, but then had to make up a complicated and detailed story line to make him fit.
Overall, Labuskes has creativity and ingenuity when it comes to plot development, and “See It End” was able to keep me engaged through to the end, even without reading the previous novels. This is one of those stories which is far more entertaining to those who have read the series in its complete and proper order. I will, however, gladly take a chance on Labuskes again, without regret.
September 24, 2022
I was so excited to see another (last?) book in this series about the criminologist and sociopath, Dr. Gretchen White. And it involves Detective Lauren Marconi who I love to see interact with Gretchen. Except this time around, they barely do because someone has been killed and everyone believes Marconi did it. Her confession doesn't exactly help. But Gretchen knows better and when Marconi comes to her briefly before turning herself in and tells her not to investigate, Gretchen does the exact opposite. And it's a good thing she does because she's the only one who can get to the truth.
She partners with Lachlan, Marconi's boyfriend and fellow officer to get official access to certain people and places. It's the typical 'look how much we can't stand each other' type of duo but you know they'll get along eventually. Kind of like Gretchen and Marconi, imagine that! So they have to work together and dig through Marconi's past, which neither of them knows anything about.
It's quite a backstory, with family tragedy abounding. Not only did Marconi know the victim she was accused of killing, but she was suspicious of him for years - believing him to be a kidnapper and killer himself. Her suspicions were well known and caused problems in her career. She could never quite find the smoking gun to put away the man for good. But would she have taken the law into her own hands? And why now, so many years later? That's for Gretchen to figure out.
It's an in-depth mystery with several possible suspects and motives that Gretchen and Lachlan have to sort through to get to the truth. There are multiple perspectives throughout the story and you'll find yourself coming up with different theories about who could be the killer and why. It might be best to just sit back and enjoy the story because I doubt anyone will see what's coming!
She partners with Lachlan, Marconi's boyfriend and fellow officer to get official access to certain people and places. It's the typical 'look how much we can't stand each other' type of duo but you know they'll get along eventually. Kind of like Gretchen and Marconi, imagine that! So they have to work together and dig through Marconi's past, which neither of them knows anything about.
It's quite a backstory, with family tragedy abounding. Not only did Marconi know the victim she was accused of killing, but she was suspicious of him for years - believing him to be a kidnapper and killer himself. Her suspicions were well known and caused problems in her career. She could never quite find the smoking gun to put away the man for good. But would she have taken the law into her own hands? And why now, so many years later? That's for Gretchen to figure out.
It's an in-depth mystery with several possible suspects and motives that Gretchen and Lachlan have to sort through to get to the truth. There are multiple perspectives throughout the story and you'll find yourself coming up with different theories about who could be the killer and why. It might be best to just sit back and enjoy the story because I doubt anyone will see what's coming!
February 26, 2023
Did Dr. White’s favorite BPD detective really commit murder? Nothing is as it seems in this third installment of the series where it’s Marconi’s mysterious past that takes center stage.
First of all, the way that Dr. Gretchen White views the world is SO interesting to read - there aren’t a huge amount of stories out there where it’s the sociopath SOLVING crimes, not committing them. I loved all the differing POVs and the jumping timelines that slowly revealed pieces of the past. Sometimes it felt like there were a LOT of different theories going on in Gretchen’s mind, but that makes sense since there really wasn’t much to go on at the beginning of the investigation. I was shocked at how much I DIDN’T know about Detective Lauren Marconi’s history (after all, I’ve already read two books where she & Gretchen solved cases together) - that was very intricately plotted and I’m impressed at how it lined up so neatly when you looked back at their time together.
There were multiple huge reveals in this book and I don’t want to give anything away, but suffice it to say that if you’re a fan of thrillers then your bookshelf isn’t complete without some Brianna Labuskes titles 😊
Thank you to Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley for the free ARC in exchange for an honest review!
First of all, the way that Dr. Gretchen White views the world is SO interesting to read - there aren’t a huge amount of stories out there where it’s the sociopath SOLVING crimes, not committing them. I loved all the differing POVs and the jumping timelines that slowly revealed pieces of the past. Sometimes it felt like there were a LOT of different theories going on in Gretchen’s mind, but that makes sense since there really wasn’t much to go on at the beginning of the investigation. I was shocked at how much I DIDN’T know about Detective Lauren Marconi’s history (after all, I’ve already read two books where she & Gretchen solved cases together) - that was very intricately plotted and I’m impressed at how it lined up so neatly when you looked back at their time together.
There were multiple huge reveals in this book and I don’t want to give anything away, but suffice it to say that if you’re a fan of thrillers then your bookshelf isn’t complete without some Brianna Labuskes titles 😊
Thank you to Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley for the free ARC in exchange for an honest review!
May 7, 2023
This is the last book in the Gretchen White Series which was another blockbuster of a story. I enjoyed reading about Dr. White and her sociopathic tendencies as a psychologist and paid analyst for the police who works with Detective Lauren Marconi on murder cases.
Gretchen is one of the most fascinating characters I have ever read in this type of genre. She has a quirky sense of humor even though she has no affect, being unemotional in the most difficult and horrifying times. She knows how to control herself and doesn’t worry about what others think of her and her methods to solve a mystery. She works well along with Lauren who has learned how to handle her. They have become close as close as one can get to a sociopath.
In this mystery Lauren must deal with some of the most difficult cases, kidnapping and murder of young boys. She fears for her own son, Elijah’s life when the suspected killer comes too close to her son. She has to make the toughest decision of her life in order to protect him. What she does could effect them both for the rest of their lives. Gretchen steps in to do whatever she can, working in grey areas, for she doesn’t see things in black and white.
I loved this book and all the varied characters good and bad. I hated to see this series come to an end but look forward to more entertaining stories from this talented writer who I’m sure has many more stories to share.
Gretchen is one of the most fascinating characters I have ever read in this type of genre. She has a quirky sense of humor even though she has no affect, being unemotional in the most difficult and horrifying times. She knows how to control herself and doesn’t worry about what others think of her and her methods to solve a mystery. She works well along with Lauren who has learned how to handle her. They have become close as close as one can get to a sociopath.
In this mystery Lauren must deal with some of the most difficult cases, kidnapping and murder of young boys. She fears for her own son, Elijah’s life when the suspected killer comes too close to her son. She has to make the toughest decision of her life in order to protect him. What she does could effect them both for the rest of their lives. Gretchen steps in to do whatever she can, working in grey areas, for she doesn’t see things in black and white.
I loved this book and all the varied characters good and bad. I hated to see this series come to an end but look forward to more entertaining stories from this talented writer who I’m sure has many more stories to share.
Read
September 24, 2023This is the third in the crime series featuring diagnosed sociopath and police advisor, Dr Gretchen White. This time it’s not Gretchen’s behaviour under scrutiny. Instead Gretchen’s almost-friend, Detective Lauren Maconi, has been arrested for murder.
Despite – and because of – Lauren’s request to Gretchen not to investigate, Gretchen is determined to do just that and get Lauren set free.
The story is told across two timelines – a Now timeline from Gretchen’s viewpoint, and two Then timelines from the viewpoints of Lauren and another woman called Martha.
Gretchen delivers some sardonic, wisecracking one liners, the Lauren sections crank up tension and emotion, and Martha brings the mystery.
The pace increases as the story progresses. The last quarter, although I’d guessed the outcome, was a whirlwind.
I've now bought the first in the series and look forward to reading it.
Despite – and because of – Lauren’s request to Gretchen not to investigate, Gretchen is determined to do just that and get Lauren set free.
The story is told across two timelines – a Now timeline from Gretchen’s viewpoint, and two Then timelines from the viewpoints of Lauren and another woman called Martha.
Gretchen delivers some sardonic, wisecracking one liners, the Lauren sections crank up tension and emotion, and Martha brings the mystery.
The pace increases as the story progresses. The last quarter, although I’d guessed the outcome, was a whirlwind.
I've now bought the first in the series and look forward to reading it.
February 17, 2023
Dr. Gretchen White, a consultant for Boston Police Department is returning from a date to find her friend Lauren in her car with bloodied hands. Before exiting the vehicle Lauren asks Gretchen not to investigate. Lauren is a detective with the Boston Police Department.
Gretchen quickly calls detective Lauren’s partner Lachlan Gibbs, with Boston PD’s Internal Affairs Department, to relay the news. But Gretchen learns from Lachlan that Lauren has already turned herself in.
According to the media, someone had entered the home of the victim, Owen Hayes at night, setting off the alarm. His wife, Martha, and daughter had been out to dinner The only person captured entering and leaving the room was Detective Lauren.
Lauren had joined BP a year prior. Before then she a police officer with the Montpelier PD in Vermont. Then eight years ago she transferred to Amherst from Montpelier.
Gretchen is convinced Lauren’s innocent and starts digging for the truth.
Thank you to Brianna Labuskes, NetGalley, and Thomas & Mercer for the arc of this book.
Gretchen quickly calls detective Lauren’s partner Lachlan Gibbs, with Boston PD’s Internal Affairs Department, to relay the news. But Gretchen learns from Lachlan that Lauren has already turned herself in.
According to the media, someone had entered the home of the victim, Owen Hayes at night, setting off the alarm. His wife, Martha, and daughter had been out to dinner The only person captured entering and leaving the room was Detective Lauren.
Lauren had joined BP a year prior. Before then she a police officer with the Montpelier PD in Vermont. Then eight years ago she transferred to Amherst from Montpelier.
Gretchen is convinced Lauren’s innocent and starts digging for the truth.
Thank you to Brianna Labuskes, NetGalley, and Thomas & Mercer for the arc of this book.
April 30, 2023
4.5-5
This was an enjoyable detective type story where the detective is actually arrested under the suspicion of murder and her bestie starts investigating to see if her friend really did murder the individual or if it was someone else. The story is told through the viewpoints of both friends, one is speaking before the murder and one is speaking after. The story quickly evolves into a complicated plot line involving missing boys, including the detective’s very own son.
This is definitely a gripping suspense that will have you engaged throughout.
This was an enjoyable detective type story where the detective is actually arrested under the suspicion of murder and her bestie starts investigating to see if her friend really did murder the individual or if it was someone else. The story is told through the viewpoints of both friends, one is speaking before the murder and one is speaking after. The story quickly evolves into a complicated plot line involving missing boys, including the detective’s very own son.
This is definitely a gripping suspense that will have you engaged throughout.
September 12, 2022
See It End (Dr. Gretchen White #3) by Brianna Labuskes is a suspenseful and twist filled thriller. Learning more about Maconi's backstory added more dimension to hers and Gretchen's dynamic. A very good addition to the series. Not ready to See It End and am looking forward to #4.
Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to preview the book.
Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to preview the book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 336 reviews