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Timber Falls
The isolated, sleepy little village of Timber Falls—built on the bend of a swift mountain river—swells during the summer months as tourists flock to town to run the river, lured there by the Class V rapids.
Haley Martin used to be what the locals called a “river rat”, back during the days of her college years. Now she owns the Timber Falls Bar and Grill, drawn back to the picturesque village seven years ago after the tragic death of her wife.
Carter, a disgraced LAPD detective, was offered an out—a position on a team of unorthodox FBI agents. After a month of training, she is sent out on her own without a team or a partner.
When the gruesome murder of a college student—a river rat—sends the FBI agent to Timber Falls, Carter has no idea what she’s about to find there. She knows she’s looking for a serial killer that’s preying on tourists. But she has no idea that she might find some peace—and love—along the way.
Haley Martin used to be what the locals called a “river rat”, back during the days of her college years. Now she owns the Timber Falls Bar and Grill, drawn back to the picturesque village seven years ago after the tragic death of her wife.
Carter, a disgraced LAPD detective, was offered an out—a position on a team of unorthodox FBI agents. After a month of training, she is sent out on her own without a team or a partner.
When the gruesome murder of a college student—a river rat—sends the FBI agent to Timber Falls, Carter has no idea what she’s about to find there. She knows she’s looking for a serial killer that’s preying on tourists. But she has no idea that she might find some peace—and love—along the way.
246 pages, Paperback
First published July 14, 2022
61 people are currently reading
356 people want to read
About the author
Gerri Hill
56 books1,538 followersGerri began writing lesbian romance as a way to amuse herself while snowed in one winter in the mountains of Colorado, and hasn’t looked back. Her first published work came in 2000 with One Summer Night. Many more romances have followed, with the occasional murder mystery in the mix.
Gerri’s love of nature and of being outdoors usually makes its way into her stories as her characters often find themselves in beautiful natural settings. When she isn’t writing, Gerri and her longtime partner, Diane, can be found at their home in East Texas, where their vegetable garden, orchard, and five acres of woods keep them busy. They share their lives with an ever-changing cast of furry friends.
Her favorite pastimes include camping, hiking, birdwatching (though she insists she doesn’t wear funny hats yet!), photography, and cooking. She collects things nature offers, like an unusual pinecone, colorful rocks, or an abandoned bird feather. Dawn is her favorite time of day, the moment right before sunrise...
"I love the morning... the beginning of a brand new day. Because even things that we know are unattainable flutter within our grasp. In the early morning—at that cusp of a new day—everything is possible."
Gerri’s love of nature and of being outdoors usually makes its way into her stories as her characters often find themselves in beautiful natural settings. When she isn’t writing, Gerri and her longtime partner, Diane, can be found at their home in East Texas, where their vegetable garden, orchard, and five acres of woods keep them busy. They share their lives with an ever-changing cast of furry friends.
Her favorite pastimes include camping, hiking, birdwatching (though she insists she doesn’t wear funny hats yet!), photography, and cooking. She collects things nature offers, like an unusual pinecone, colorful rocks, or an abandoned bird feather. Dawn is her favorite time of day, the moment right before sunrise...
"I love the morning... the beginning of a brand new day. Because even things that we know are unattainable flutter within our grasp. In the early morning—at that cusp of a new day—everything is possible."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
December 31, 2022
3.25 Stars. Decent but forgettable. I was actually supposed to read/review this over the summer. There was an issue with my ARCs from Bella that month, and since I was in another state after a funeral not doing any reading, it seemed like a lucky mix-up not to get them, and I figured I would just buy Gerri Hill’s book later. I decided to spend an Audible credit on it, since I don’t know the lovely Abby Craden’s narrating voice well enough, plus I was dying to finally read/listen to this book. While Craden is amazing and had no issues with any pronunciation or names that I noticed, I’m disappointed to say this is my least favorite Hill ‘crime’ book. It was okay, perfectly readable, but it felt like it was missing that Hill magic in my personal opinion, and I do mean my opinion as this book has a lot of high reviews. I noticed that Gaby, my fellow blog partner, also thought this was nice but felt disappointed overall and she also listened to the audiobook. I’m wondering if the story just didn’t transfer as well, not because of the lovely Craden, but just in general if it lacks excitement in the crime parts and chemistry in the sapphic romance, on audio compared to reading the book as those were my biggest two issues.
But what bothered me the most overall, I can’t talk about it as it would ruin too much of the main storyline. I will say I found the issue to be problematic enough that I might message Bella, and I would only recommend this book to people who are cisgender.
In the end I cannot recommend the audiobook version of Timber Falls, but my Goodreads friends loved the book so that might be the better way to go. It was a nice read, but after a couple days I was struggling to remember what the story was even about. This is not the normal Hill crime book that grabs you and doesn’t let go, but if you are looking for a gentler crime read then maybe this if the right way to go.
But what bothered me the most overall, I can’t talk about it as it would ruin too much of the main storyline. I will say I found the issue to be problematic enough that I might message Bella, and I would only recommend this book to people who are cisgender.
In the end I cannot recommend the audiobook version of Timber Falls, but my Goodreads friends loved the book so that might be the better way to go. It was a nice read, but after a couple days I was struggling to remember what the story was even about. This is not the normal Hill crime book that grabs you and doesn’t let go, but if you are looking for a gentler crime read then maybe this if the right way to go.
June 30, 2022
The picturesque Colorado village of Timber Falls is swarmed every summer by young and old looking to raft the river. This summer a serial killer joins the ranks of the “river rats” leaving dead bodies in their wake.
Ex LA Detective and newly minted FBI Agent Lynn Carter arrives on the scene to track the killer.
Gerri Hill has proven repeatedly that she knows how to write a murder mystery. Timber Falls is yet another example of this. The serial killer aspect brings a few unexpected twists to the table which only elevates the intense plot.
Hill’s writing is superb as she brings you quickly into the story and holds your attention until the end. I would say this is a typical Hill novel but only if you understand ‘typical’ to mean an outstanding story, intriguing characters, beautiful settings and unparalleled writing.
I received an advance review copy from Bella Books and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Ex LA Detective and newly minted FBI Agent Lynn Carter arrives on the scene to track the killer.
Gerri Hill has proven repeatedly that she knows how to write a murder mystery. Timber Falls is yet another example of this. The serial killer aspect brings a few unexpected twists to the table which only elevates the intense plot.
Hill’s writing is superb as she brings you quickly into the story and holds your attention until the end. I would say this is a typical Hill novel but only if you understand ‘typical’ to mean an outstanding story, intriguing characters, beautiful settings and unparalleled writing.
I received an advance review copy from Bella Books and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 2, 2022
4.25 stars. Those that follow my reviews will know that I’m a fan of Hill’s books, especially the crime and paranormal books are my favorites and this book was yet again a delight to read.
Hill is an expert in describing surroundings, especially small towns and remote areas. You can almost see the scenery and feel the tranquility of small town Timber Falls, a town that sleeps in winter and comes to life in summer for the rafting season. But, Timber Falls has a serial killer on its hands…
Usually with a crime investigation book the romance takes a backseat but not in this book. I would say it’s about 50/50 and both storylines are strong and enjoyable to read. If I have to choose I think I liked the romance best.
The MCs aren’t looking for love but they both realize they are lonely. Haley is dealing with grief as she lost her wife several years previous and can’t let go of her. Carter on the other hand is handling some changes in her life, her work has always been her prime reason to live for, but is it still all she wants?
Haley and Carter are both mature women (yes they communicate) figuring out how they can be happy together. It’s not that they are unhappy perse, but also not entirely happy. They feel real and I liked how the romance slowly builds which is more based on a perfect emotional match than on lust.
The mystery is a good read, but this is not a very long book and there is also a heavy focus on the romance, so it is not the most elaborate storyline. This is not a book where you receive lots of clues and can puzzle who the killer could be. There is an investigative component and there are some twists, but it is on the light side. Yet, Hill knows how to keep things interesting and exciting.
For those familiar with the Ross & Sullivan series this book mentions them as Carter takes over their job at the FBI. They play no further role in the book, but I liked this little detail.
I easily recommend this book if you like a crime/romance combination.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Hill is an expert in describing surroundings, especially small towns and remote areas. You can almost see the scenery and feel the tranquility of small town Timber Falls, a town that sleeps in winter and comes to life in summer for the rafting season. But, Timber Falls has a serial killer on its hands…
Usually with a crime investigation book the romance takes a backseat but not in this book. I would say it’s about 50/50 and both storylines are strong and enjoyable to read. If I have to choose I think I liked the romance best.
The MCs aren’t looking for love but they both realize they are lonely. Haley is dealing with grief as she lost her wife several years previous and can’t let go of her. Carter on the other hand is handling some changes in her life, her work has always been her prime reason to live for, but is it still all she wants?
Haley and Carter are both mature women (yes they communicate) figuring out how they can be happy together. It’s not that they are unhappy perse, but also not entirely happy. They feel real and I liked how the romance slowly builds which is more based on a perfect emotional match than on lust.
The mystery is a good read, but this is not a very long book and there is also a heavy focus on the romance, so it is not the most elaborate storyline. This is not a book where you receive lots of clues and can puzzle who the killer could be. There is an investigative component and there are some twists, but it is on the light side. Yet, Hill knows how to keep things interesting and exciting.
For those familiar with the Ross & Sullivan series this book mentions them as Carter takes over their job at the FBI. They play no further role in the book, but I liked this little detail.
I easily recommend this book if you like a crime/romance combination.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 2, 2023
January 2023: editing my rating to acknowledge the transphobia that occurs in this story
“Timber Falls” by Gerri Hill is a romance with a healthy dose of a murder mystery/thriller.
It’s the busy season in Timber Falls, Colorado. It’s summertime and that means the sleepy river town is full of tourists wanting the run the rapids that make it so popular. Haley Martin used to run the rapids every year but after the death of her wife she decided to move to Timber Falls and buy the local bar and grill. Her busy season is put on pause when tourists start getting murdered and FBI agent, Lynn Carter shows up.
If you’re already a fan of Gerri Hill, you’re going to love this. This is her typical well written murder mystery that’s set in the wilderness and has a sweet romance to pull at the heartstrings and to give it some lightness. I don’t think Hill did anything new here, but that’s not a bad thing.
I really enjoyed this, from beginning to end. One of the things I loved was the pacing. It never felt rushed or too slow, with both the mystery and the romance, which is not an easy feat.
Haley is still grieving the death of her wife when she meets Carter. Although there is some attraction there, she has no plans to do anything about it. They start off as friends and I liked their natural progression and how they eventually moved onto something more, especially as most of the book is just over 10 days or so.
The mystery was nice and although it’s not a whodunnit, I still liked it. It really adds some tension to all the relationships and made me keep reading.
I received an ARC from Bella Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
“Timber Falls” by Gerri Hill is a romance with a healthy dose of a murder mystery/thriller.
It’s the busy season in Timber Falls, Colorado. It’s summertime and that means the sleepy river town is full of tourists wanting the run the rapids that make it so popular. Haley Martin used to run the rapids every year but after the death of her wife she decided to move to Timber Falls and buy the local bar and grill. Her busy season is put on pause when tourists start getting murdered and FBI agent, Lynn Carter shows up.
If you’re already a fan of Gerri Hill, you’re going to love this. This is her typical well written murder mystery that’s set in the wilderness and has a sweet romance to pull at the heartstrings and to give it some lightness. I don’t think Hill did anything new here, but that’s not a bad thing.
I really enjoyed this, from beginning to end. One of the things I loved was the pacing. It never felt rushed or too slow, with both the mystery and the romance, which is not an easy feat.
Haley is still grieving the death of her wife when she meets Carter. Although there is some attraction there, she has no plans to do anything about it. They start off as friends and I liked their natural progression and how they eventually moved onto something more, especially as most of the book is just over 10 days or so.
The mystery was nice and although it’s not a whodunnit, I still liked it. It really adds some tension to all the relationships and made me keep reading.
I received an ARC from Bella Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 20, 2022
4.5⭐️
A sweet romance mixed with a murder hunt
As a fan of Gerri Hill, I had to read her latest book and once again, the author has exceeded my expectations. I like mystery and romance genres best and both mixed together in one story are my absolute favorite. This author is able to write both storylines equally strong and it’s precisely how I love it.
As we have come to expect from Gerri Hill, her description of the surroundings, the town and the people makes you think you know the place and you have already visited yourself. Amazing. Timber Falls is a small town set apart in the wilderness on the banks of a mountain river. As sleepy as the hick town is in winter, it’s a lively tourist spot in summer, thanks to boisterous “river rats” who can’t get enough of river rafting and class V rapids.
Haley was a river rat herself when she spent several summers there with her girlfriend during her college years. Seven years ago and after the accidental death of her wife, she returned to where she was the happiest. She was able to take over the Timber Falls Bar & Grill and is now one of the all-year-round residents. Her only real friend is Mike, the local Timber Falls Police officer.
Carter fell out of favor with her police department in LA and was offered a way out in the form of a position in a special FBI unit. After a month of training, she is sent out for the first time to operate on her own in Timber Falls after a college student was brutally murdered.
The murder investigation is exciting and nerve-wracking. The hunt for the killer is thrilling. The more I learned, the closer the action got, the more afraid I was that Haley, Mike, or Carter would be targeted. It kept me on my toes the whole time. I was pleased to see that, for once, the cooperation of Mike and Carter, who belong to two different law enforcement agencies went hand-in-hand without infighting.
The romance is sweet and soulful. Both women feel lonely for different reasons. Haley is still struggling with grief for her wife and still hasn’t managed to let her go. I imagine that this is the most difficult thing to do, when you lose your wife, although you know she wouldn’t want you to hold on that long. When she gets to know Carter, she feels something changing inside her, but at first, she doesn’t want to accept that someone else is capable of replacing her wife, it makes her uncomfortable. And yet, a little hope germinates that she might find happiness again but she is afraid to let her in, as she knows Carter will leave town sooner rather than later.
Carter, on the other hand, is always completely focused on her work. But as she is slowly finding her way around the new job, always on the move, never in the same place for more than a few days, with no home, she starts to realize how lonely the new job makes her feel. Is this really the future she wants? She is immediately attracted to Haley, although Haley rejects all her advances. But they quickly become friends and only after a few days, does Haley creep into her heart and she knows that she will not just disappear again. Is she falling in love for the first time ever? Will Haley ever let her in her heart?
I liked the way both main characters interacted as the mature women that they are and that they really communicated without intentional misunderstandings. They had to find a way to be happy together and they did.
For me, Gerri Hill’s books are always a safe bet. As a fan, you know what to expect and it is always delivered in very good quality. Highly recommended to all mystery/romance fans.
ARC was provided by Bella Books to LezReviewBooks.com in exchange for an honest review.
A sweet romance mixed with a murder hunt
As a fan of Gerri Hill, I had to read her latest book and once again, the author has exceeded my expectations. I like mystery and romance genres best and both mixed together in one story are my absolute favorite. This author is able to write both storylines equally strong and it’s precisely how I love it.
As we have come to expect from Gerri Hill, her description of the surroundings, the town and the people makes you think you know the place and you have already visited yourself. Amazing. Timber Falls is a small town set apart in the wilderness on the banks of a mountain river. As sleepy as the hick town is in winter, it’s a lively tourist spot in summer, thanks to boisterous “river rats” who can’t get enough of river rafting and class V rapids.
Haley was a river rat herself when she spent several summers there with her girlfriend during her college years. Seven years ago and after the accidental death of her wife, she returned to where she was the happiest. She was able to take over the Timber Falls Bar & Grill and is now one of the all-year-round residents. Her only real friend is Mike, the local Timber Falls Police officer.
Carter fell out of favor with her police department in LA and was offered a way out in the form of a position in a special FBI unit. After a month of training, she is sent out for the first time to operate on her own in Timber Falls after a college student was brutally murdered.
The murder investigation is exciting and nerve-wracking. The hunt for the killer is thrilling. The more I learned, the closer the action got, the more afraid I was that Haley, Mike, or Carter would be targeted. It kept me on my toes the whole time. I was pleased to see that, for once, the cooperation of Mike and Carter, who belong to two different law enforcement agencies went hand-in-hand without infighting.
The romance is sweet and soulful. Both women feel lonely for different reasons. Haley is still struggling with grief for her wife and still hasn’t managed to let her go. I imagine that this is the most difficult thing to do, when you lose your wife, although you know she wouldn’t want you to hold on that long. When she gets to know Carter, she feels something changing inside her, but at first, she doesn’t want to accept that someone else is capable of replacing her wife, it makes her uncomfortable. And yet, a little hope germinates that she might find happiness again but she is afraid to let her in, as she knows Carter will leave town sooner rather than later.
Carter, on the other hand, is always completely focused on her work. But as she is slowly finding her way around the new job, always on the move, never in the same place for more than a few days, with no home, she starts to realize how lonely the new job makes her feel. Is this really the future she wants? She is immediately attracted to Haley, although Haley rejects all her advances. But they quickly become friends and only after a few days, does Haley creep into her heart and she knows that she will not just disappear again. Is she falling in love for the first time ever? Will Haley ever let her in her heart?
I liked the way both main characters interacted as the mature women that they are and that they really communicated without intentional misunderstandings. They had to find a way to be happy together and they did.
For me, Gerri Hill’s books are always a safe bet. As a fan, you know what to expect and it is always delivered in very good quality. Highly recommended to all mystery/romance fans.
ARC was provided by Bella Books to LezReviewBooks.com in exchange for an honest review.
July 27, 2022
Timber Falls by Gerri Hill, narrated by Abby Craden
Gerri Hill is one of the trailblazers of the Sapphic fiction genre with more than a couple of dozen books published. I love when she writes mysteries because they are usually as much about the intrigue as the romance. Timber Falls fits exactly in that type of story.
After having to quit LA police, Carter is now working solo for the FBI. She's sent to the small town of Timber Falls to investigate a possible serial killer preying on unsuspecting tourists. Haley Martin, the owner of a bar and grill, has lived in Timber Falls since her wife passed away. When both women meet there is an undeniable attraction but with a killer at large and their own personal hangups, will they be able to act on their feelings?
This is a good mystery set in a small town. Timber Falls is a destination for youngsters who love river rafting and camping. It's full of visitors in summer and very quiet in winter. This is a typical small town story in which everyone gets into everyone else's business. The surge of brutal killings and the subsequent FBI investigation brings turmoil to the otherwise very quiet town.
I was not fond of this story as much as other Gerri Hill mysteries. I felt it lacked a bit of fast-paced, nail-biting action which this author can write so well like in, for example, Moonlight Avenue.
The romance part is OK but while the main characters were both likable, I didn't feel a strong chemistry between them. Their relationship seems to progress at a fast pace, sometimes even faster than the mystery itself.
Abby Craden narrates the audiobook version and as usual, did a great job. Her voices are distinct and the pace is perfect. Ms. Craden definitely made this story more enjoyable. 3.5 stars.
Length: 5 hrs and 54 mins
Gerri Hill is one of the trailblazers of the Sapphic fiction genre with more than a couple of dozen books published. I love when she writes mysteries because they are usually as much about the intrigue as the romance. Timber Falls fits exactly in that type of story.
After having to quit LA police, Carter is now working solo for the FBI. She's sent to the small town of Timber Falls to investigate a possible serial killer preying on unsuspecting tourists. Haley Martin, the owner of a bar and grill, has lived in Timber Falls since her wife passed away. When both women meet there is an undeniable attraction but with a killer at large and their own personal hangups, will they be able to act on their feelings?
This is a good mystery set in a small town. Timber Falls is a destination for youngsters who love river rafting and camping. It's full of visitors in summer and very quiet in winter. This is a typical small town story in which everyone gets into everyone else's business. The surge of brutal killings and the subsequent FBI investigation brings turmoil to the otherwise very quiet town.
I was not fond of this story as much as other Gerri Hill mysteries. I felt it lacked a bit of fast-paced, nail-biting action which this author can write so well like in, for example, Moonlight Avenue.
The romance part is OK but while the main characters were both likable, I didn't feel a strong chemistry between them. Their relationship seems to progress at a fast pace, sometimes even faster than the mystery itself.
Abby Craden narrates the audiobook version and as usual, did a great job. Her voices are distinct and the pace is perfect. Ms. Craden definitely made this story more enjoyable. 3.5 stars.
Length: 5 hrs and 54 mins
July 18, 2022
I love Gerri Hill’s stories. Her books never disappoint. Her murder mysteries have me mentally pulling out my detective kit to solve the whodunit. Her paranormal tales give me the shivers, and her romances melt my heart. Her newest novel, Timber Falls fits right into the murder mystery/romance genre this author is famous for.
Timber Falls is a small, remote village tucked away in the mountains. Most of the year the population of the town is only about a hundred folks, but during the summer months that number swells dramatically with tourists who are drawn to the river and the Class V rapids they love. The frightful murder of a college student in the nearby campground brings newly hired FBI agent Lynn Carter to town where she meets Haley Martin, the owner of Timber Falls Bar and Grill, and also chief of police (the only police officer in town) Mike Goodson. The three will end up working together to catch the killer who is targeting the campers and others in town. At the same time Carter and Haley must decide if this spark between them is really worth developing, especially with their individual pasts.
As you can tell, the setting plays a major part of this story, and the author created a unique and excellent place. It is both beautiful and remote, the perfect spot for both the love story and the murder mystery. Both Haley and Carter are well-developed. They have tragedies in their pasts that affect their current lives. It is obvious they are well suited for each other if they can only let go of the hurt and misfortune they’ve lived through. The murder mystery is very engaging, and kept me reading to find out the killer’s identity as well as how or if they would be caught.
This novel is actually placed in the same universe as several of the author’s former books. Those of you who have read these novels will immediately recognize some of the characters mentioned from those stories. Don’t worry if you haven’t read the former books though. This is a standalone novel and can be read on its own.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Timber Falls by Gerri Hill. If you love a thrilling murder mystery combined with a heartwarming love story, then read this book.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bella Books for an honest review.
Timber Falls is a small, remote village tucked away in the mountains. Most of the year the population of the town is only about a hundred folks, but during the summer months that number swells dramatically with tourists who are drawn to the river and the Class V rapids they love. The frightful murder of a college student in the nearby campground brings newly hired FBI agent Lynn Carter to town where she meets Haley Martin, the owner of Timber Falls Bar and Grill, and also chief of police (the only police officer in town) Mike Goodson. The three will end up working together to catch the killer who is targeting the campers and others in town. At the same time Carter and Haley must decide if this spark between them is really worth developing, especially with their individual pasts.
As you can tell, the setting plays a major part of this story, and the author created a unique and excellent place. It is both beautiful and remote, the perfect spot for both the love story and the murder mystery. Both Haley and Carter are well-developed. They have tragedies in their pasts that affect their current lives. It is obvious they are well suited for each other if they can only let go of the hurt and misfortune they’ve lived through. The murder mystery is very engaging, and kept me reading to find out the killer’s identity as well as how or if they would be caught.
This novel is actually placed in the same universe as several of the author’s former books. Those of you who have read these novels will immediately recognize some of the characters mentioned from those stories. Don’t worry if you haven’t read the former books though. This is a standalone novel and can be read on its own.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Timber Falls by Gerri Hill. If you love a thrilling murder mystery combined with a heartwarming love story, then read this book.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bella Books for an honest review.
June 29, 2022
There's something so fresh and engaging about Gerri Hills' books. Each book is so different but yet there is a familiarity to them. I think this is because of the book setting, especially in the last few years, each new book seems to be set in an isolated setting, such as the mountains, isolated villages, or small towns but they always leave me with a familiar feeling that you've been there before, which I absolutely love about her books. It just draws me in.
I don't think I've ever not liked a book by this author, whether it's a crime, romance, paranormal or like Timber Hills, a mystery book. It's not a long read but it did keep me captivated, not overly full of angst and did have a few twists and turns along the way. The two main characters, Haley Martin, a small town business owner in the village, who ran back to timber hills 7 years previous, returned to block out her past. Carter, a disgraced LAPD detective who's turned FBI, finds herself on the hunt for a serial killer who likes to pray on the town's tourists.
If you're a fan and have read Gerri Hills' previous books, you'll know what to expect from her writing in her new book. Timber Hills will not disappoint, it is very much worth the read, I've given ‘Timber Hills’ a 4.6 out of 5
I was given ARC copy for a honest review.
I don't think I've ever not liked a book by this author, whether it's a crime, romance, paranormal or like Timber Hills, a mystery book. It's not a long read but it did keep me captivated, not overly full of angst and did have a few twists and turns along the way. The two main characters, Haley Martin, a small town business owner in the village, who ran back to timber hills 7 years previous, returned to block out her past. Carter, a disgraced LAPD detective who's turned FBI, finds herself on the hunt for a serial killer who likes to pray on the town's tourists.
If you're a fan and have read Gerri Hills' previous books, you'll know what to expect from her writing in her new book. Timber Hills will not disappoint, it is very much worth the read, I've given ‘Timber Hills’ a 4.6 out of 5
I was given ARC copy for a honest review.
July 7, 2022
I don’t read a lot of Hill’s books because I’m not one for the paranormal. So when the author writes a “simple” crime/mystery I am over the moon because the writing is always top notch and the story captivating.
Haley has basically fled to Timber Falls to grieve her wife’s death almost eight years ago. And the grieving is going nowhere, she’s just going through the motions. Her best friend is the town cop - Mike. He doesn’t really know anything about Haley, just some of the basics and the front she shows everyone. When the sleepy little town is shocked by a brutal murder FBI agent Carter shows up, this is her last name by the way, she doesn’t go by her first name. Carter is rather new to the FBI and she’s not sure she likes it. The murder turns into two, and another linked one and some other things happen (no I’m not spoiling). Carter and Mike work together on the case that has the town flustered. Haley is also flustered by Carter, Carter is honest with her and Haley doesn’t always take that well. She needs a little time to process some of Carter’s harsher truths, but there is a pull there. I really like how the author made both characters unapologetically themselves. They are who they are and they don’t apologise for wanting, needing or reacting in a certain way. This rings especially true for Carter.
The crime story is great and when I was expecting a certain thing the author didn’t go there. I like when I can’t predict where the story will take me, especially in crime stories.
Another great crime story by Hill with a lovely romance as well. These are the things I love.
*ARC received in exchange for a voluntary and honest review*
Haley has basically fled to Timber Falls to grieve her wife’s death almost eight years ago. And the grieving is going nowhere, she’s just going through the motions. Her best friend is the town cop - Mike. He doesn’t really know anything about Haley, just some of the basics and the front she shows everyone. When the sleepy little town is shocked by a brutal murder FBI agent Carter shows up, this is her last name by the way, she doesn’t go by her first name. Carter is rather new to the FBI and she’s not sure she likes it. The murder turns into two, and another linked one and some other things happen (no I’m not spoiling). Carter and Mike work together on the case that has the town flustered. Haley is also flustered by Carter, Carter is honest with her and Haley doesn’t always take that well. She needs a little time to process some of Carter’s harsher truths, but there is a pull there. I really like how the author made both characters unapologetically themselves. They are who they are and they don’t apologise for wanting, needing or reacting in a certain way. This rings especially true for Carter.
The crime story is great and when I was expecting a certain thing the author didn’t go there. I like when I can’t predict where the story will take me, especially in crime stories.
Another great crime story by Hill with a lovely romance as well. These are the things I love.
*ARC received in exchange for a voluntary and honest review*
July 28, 2022
Review of the audiobook version.
This one felt warm and familiar - like visiting an old friend. Gerri Hill keeps cranking them out and I don't know how she does it, but she manages to keep her books fresh and new while also giving us more of what we expect from her.
Another loner cop, drawn to a small town and the people there while investigating a homicide. The characters are engaging and the story is interesting and builds to a satisfying climax. The romance is sweet but doesn't overshadow the whodunit mystery. It's a pretty even mix.
Abby Craden continues to work her magic. She and Hill really are a perfect pairing.
Loved it and will continue coming back for more!
This one felt warm and familiar - like visiting an old friend. Gerri Hill keeps cranking them out and I don't know how she does it, but she manages to keep her books fresh and new while also giving us more of what we expect from her.
Another loner cop, drawn to a small town and the people there while investigating a homicide. The characters are engaging and the story is interesting and builds to a satisfying climax. The romance is sweet but doesn't overshadow the whodunit mystery. It's a pretty even mix.
Abby Craden continues to work her magic. She and Hill really are a perfect pairing.
Loved it and will continue coming back for more!
August 2, 2022
It's not the typical Hill book that I love, but I liked it all the same. Carter and Haley grew their relationship from a friendship to something more and I dig that sh!t. The mystery of the killer was something else though, and I enjoyed that storyline. I hope that Carter and Haley work together on furure cases 'cause Haley's analytical mind may be able to assist Carter.
August 29, 2025
Narrator Abby Craden 5 ⭐️
Story 4 ⭐️
I loved Abby Craden but the story with romance and crime elements in it was only average for me. It was enjoyable but nothing as gripping as Gillette Park.
Story 4 ⭐️
I loved Abby Craden but the story with romance and crime elements in it was only average for me. It was enjoyable but nothing as gripping as Gillette Park.
August 21, 2022
ok, i always feel a little bit like an asshole whenever i rate a book under three stars, and i try not to do it unless i really didn't enjoy something, or there was a lot abt it that frusturated me, and unfortunetly, this was one of them.
i'm clearly in the minority here, just looking at other reviews, so take mine with a grain of salt. some of my complaints are def personal pet peeve things, but some of it just didn't click or was frusturating.
the good: abby craden's narration. impeccable as always. and it was a short, quick read.
the annoying: i'm very sick of cop narratives. there are a LOT in sapphic fiction and i DO like mysteries and thrillers, which is why i ever pick them up in the first place, but lately, more and more, i cannot get behind a lot of tropes that seem to stick with them. alll of the stuff with Carter's past rlly rubbed me the wrong way, esp with HOW they all spoke abt it. "it was justified" haley's reaction to her being villifyed in the media, etc. "i saw the kid and he smiled at me and forgave me" in the sort of dream thing at the end. truly, what the fuck. i hated all of this. this is just a totally absurd narrative to be writing in 2022, if you ARE going to continue to write abt cops, do it without these ridiculous tropes. it's the wording around it all that just could be tweeked to stop like, lauding cops. or distinguishing "good cops" from "bad cops" etc. THERE AREN'T ANY. CUT IT OUT.
i also never warmed up to carter at all. despite all of her cop/fbi backstory stuff, (which def added to my baias, i know) her personality also rubbed me the wrong way. she was bad at her job, lol. telling civilians details abt your case is... like, Not Okay? or professional? like, i know you want in haley's pants, but ffs, do your job better than that?? ALSO, all her flirting with haley pissed me off! haley consistently in the beginning had to reiterate that she WASN'T flirting, and wasn't interested, and carter, KEPT asking her if she was flirting (which is a real pet peeve of mine and never endears me to characters or makes me root for the relationship). when haley calls out "take a seat anywhere and i'll be right with you" not knowing it was carter, thinking it was a customer, and carter instead, WALKS BACK INTO THE KICTHEN AND WAITS/STARES AT HER, as a former resturant worker, i was enraged at the audacity. that's not cute!! that's unbelievably annoying. it also pissed me off how insensitive she was to haley's grief for her wife. like, girl, she's known you all of five minutes, it's... not your place to tell her what to do with her life, how to grieve, how LONG she should grieve, etc. just bc you want in her pants. it was the way she went abt it, the way she worded things, it absolutely infuriated me that the narrative (and haley) rewarded her for it. yeah, sometimes ppl get stuck in a rut and need that kind of "tough love bs" to snap them out of smth, but carter was not the one and it was not her damn business!
all of this probably makes it pretty clear that i never ended up rooting for them. i didn't feel the chemistry, i didn't care or want them together, i wasn't invested.
i aLSO wasn't invested in the mystery/case. there was a lot of weird vaugly transphobic shit with mike and the reveal of the killer and his and carter's reaction to that and it absolutely pissed me off. IT IS 2022, LEAVE THAT BULLSHIT IN THE DIRT WHERE IT BELONGS. i never cared abt the case, it never caught my attention, i just wasn't invested in ANYTHING, tbh.
i can't personally rec this one. i found nearly all of it frusturating. i've only read (2? a duology, i think) other books by gerri hill before, and a few of these smaller, frusturating things i also noticed building up in those ones as well, despite finding the mysteries MUCH more interesting (cults, and then ghosts! very up my alley) so i will give another title by her a chance, this might just be a dud for me, personally? but it also might be a case of an author that i don't vibe with. which is a bummer, bc abby craden has narrated a lot, and i love her, so i'll try some others for her and possibly her alone.
i'm clearly in the minority here, just looking at other reviews, so take mine with a grain of salt. some of my complaints are def personal pet peeve things, but some of it just didn't click or was frusturating.
the good: abby craden's narration. impeccable as always. and it was a short, quick read.
the annoying: i'm very sick of cop narratives. there are a LOT in sapphic fiction and i DO like mysteries and thrillers, which is why i ever pick them up in the first place, but lately, more and more, i cannot get behind a lot of tropes that seem to stick with them. alll of the stuff with Carter's past rlly rubbed me the wrong way, esp with HOW they all spoke abt it. "it was justified" haley's reaction to her being villifyed in the media, etc. "i saw the kid and he smiled at me and forgave me" in the sort of dream thing at the end. truly, what the fuck. i hated all of this. this is just a totally absurd narrative to be writing in 2022, if you ARE going to continue to write abt cops, do it without these ridiculous tropes. it's the wording around it all that just could be tweeked to stop like, lauding cops. or distinguishing "good cops" from "bad cops" etc. THERE AREN'T ANY. CUT IT OUT.
i also never warmed up to carter at all. despite all of her cop/fbi backstory stuff, (which def added to my baias, i know) her personality also rubbed me the wrong way. she was bad at her job, lol. telling civilians details abt your case is... like, Not Okay? or professional? like, i know you want in haley's pants, but ffs, do your job better than that?? ALSO, all her flirting with haley pissed me off! haley consistently in the beginning had to reiterate that she WASN'T flirting, and wasn't interested, and carter, KEPT asking her if she was flirting (which is a real pet peeve of mine and never endears me to characters or makes me root for the relationship). when haley calls out "take a seat anywhere and i'll be right with you" not knowing it was carter, thinking it was a customer, and carter instead, WALKS BACK INTO THE KICTHEN AND WAITS/STARES AT HER, as a former resturant worker, i was enraged at the audacity. that's not cute!! that's unbelievably annoying. it also pissed me off how insensitive she was to haley's grief for her wife. like, girl, she's known you all of five minutes, it's... not your place to tell her what to do with her life, how to grieve, how LONG she should grieve, etc. just bc you want in her pants. it was the way she went abt it, the way she worded things, it absolutely infuriated me that the narrative (and haley) rewarded her for it. yeah, sometimes ppl get stuck in a rut and need that kind of "tough love bs" to snap them out of smth, but carter was not the one and it was not her damn business!
all of this probably makes it pretty clear that i never ended up rooting for them. i didn't feel the chemistry, i didn't care or want them together, i wasn't invested.
i aLSO wasn't invested in the mystery/case. there was a lot of weird vaugly transphobic shit with mike and the reveal of the killer and his and carter's reaction to that and it absolutely pissed me off. IT IS 2022, LEAVE THAT BULLSHIT IN THE DIRT WHERE IT BELONGS. i never cared abt the case, it never caught my attention, i just wasn't invested in ANYTHING, tbh.
i can't personally rec this one. i found nearly all of it frusturating. i've only read (2? a duology, i think) other books by gerri hill before, and a few of these smaller, frusturating things i also noticed building up in those ones as well, despite finding the mysteries MUCH more interesting (cults, and then ghosts! very up my alley) so i will give another title by her a chance, this might just be a dud for me, personally? but it also might be a case of an author that i don't vibe with. which is a bummer, bc abby craden has narrated a lot, and i love her, so i'll try some others for her and possibly her alone.
August 8, 2022
I love Gerri Hill's novels as she always manages to set her books in a beautiful place that she can describe perfectly. Timber Falls features a murder mystery and romance between Haley and Carter. Both are paced really well, and I felt like it was a great blend between the two genres. Carter was such a great character - I could read so much her about her and her life.
Another great novel by Hill. Can't wait to read the next one.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Bella Books for a copy of this novel. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
Another great novel by Hill. Can't wait to read the next one.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Bella Books for a copy of this novel. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
June 30, 2022
Haley is the owner of a bar and grill restaurant in Timber Falls. Timber Falls has a grade V river rapids course that attracts college students and professional rafters. Students camp along the river in tents to save money. One night a student rafter is brutally murdered in his tent. Lynn Carter is a new FBI agent and former LA detective and gets assigned to solve this murder since it is a suspected serial murder.
Haley and Carter are both loners and not looking for romance. They each are suffering from emotional trauma in their past. But alas they meet and become friends.
The mystery was entertaining and the blooming romance was sweet. Overall another good Gerri Hill story.
Arc received for a voluntary and honest review from Bella Books via NetGalley.
Haley and Carter are both loners and not looking for romance. They each are suffering from emotional trauma in their past. But alas they meet and become friends.
The mystery was entertaining and the blooming romance was sweet. Overall another good Gerri Hill story.
Arc received for a voluntary and honest review from Bella Books via NetGalley.
January 5, 2023
3,25 stars
Disappointingly enough I have to agree with many of the reviews that expressed their opinion that this is one of the weakest Gerri Hill books so far.
Generally speaking it still isn't bad, but the expectations were set significantly higher than what she delivered.
Pity.
Regarding the potential trigger mentioned in many reviews: I think it straddles the thin line where when it doesn't concern you at all, you won't even notice it's there, but if it does, even a little bit, it leaves a bad taste. So on purpose or not, Hill messed up here and while it might've been in character for some of the characters or whatever, it still could hurt some readers. And that's not good.
Disappointingly enough I have to agree with many of the reviews that expressed their opinion that this is one of the weakest Gerri Hill books so far.
Generally speaking it still isn't bad, but the expectations were set significantly higher than what she delivered.
Pity.
Regarding the potential trigger mentioned in many reviews: I think it straddles the thin line where when it doesn't concern you at all, you won't even notice it's there, but if it does, even a little bit, it leaves a bad taste. So on purpose or not, Hill messed up here and while it might've been in character for some of the characters or whatever, it still could hurt some readers. And that's not good.
August 12, 2022
It might sound odd, but sometimes I like to read about characters with tragic backgrounds or sad stories. And Gerri Hill always manages to deliver those. I’ve read a few of Gerri Hill’s books, and I really enjoy them. The gripping suspense sent me chill a few times; the character is often lovable, too.
That said, I have a few mixed feelings about this book. One that bothers me the most is that Carter is constantly trying to persuade Haley to let go of her ex-wife(who died from an accident). It made her sound so selfish and lack in empathy. In the end, she didn’t grow on me. (probably just me tho)
Other than that, I love Gerri's written style as always. She’s one of those authors that could masterfully describe surroundings in her stories.
That said, I have a few mixed feelings about this book. One that bothers me the most is that Carter is constantly trying to persuade Haley to let go of her ex-wife(who died from an accident). It made her sound so selfish and lack in empathy. In the end, she didn’t grow on me. (probably just me tho)
Other than that, I love Gerri's written style as always. She’s one of those authors that could masterfully describe surroundings in her stories.
July 12, 2022
Gerri Hill's crime mysteries have always been very good reads. This book, set in very small town Timber Falls, has a gruesome killing that brought Carter, an LAPD cop turned FBI agent into the case. Haley is the owner of the local bar and grill, who moved to Timber Falls to grieve the death of her wife. I would say this is primarily a murder mystery with the romance being a nice bonus. I like the chemistry between the two main characters. And I'm a sucker for a book with a good small-town vibe. I finish the book hoping that there will be more books with Carter and Haley in the future.
**Thank you to Bella Books for giving an ARC for an honest review!**
**Thank you to Bella Books for giving an ARC for an honest review!**
November 18, 2022
One of my ‘go to’ authors, Gerri Hill never disappoints. Dual action story - romance, slow, and crime, a mad killer on the loose. Recommended.
July 11, 2022
Suspense and lesbian romance intertwined
Hill brings us with Timber Falls a suspense set in a tiny, outback town. When a murder occurs loner FBI agent Carter comes into this close-knit community and finds an easy friendship with Mike, the cop stationed in Timber Falls, and Haley who is still grieving her wife. There is a small nod to the Sullivan & Ross series, but no further exploration.
I loved how Hill catches the small town vibe. The quiet beauty of nature and the community are the backdrop for the story to unfold. I love how the friendships unfold. With a few sentences Hill masterfully sets the tone and atmosphere of life in Timber Falls. The chapters come as swift as the river coming down the mountains and after a slow start it sets a fast pace for the whole story. The story has emotional depth esp. in exploring Haley‘s grief and touching on Carter‘s inner struggles and their loneliness.
The suspense is in comparison a bit flat. Enough to keep us readers engaged, but not wildly menacing or inducing heart palpitations. Some aspects remain unsolved and the suspense part could have been explored in more depth.
A good and easy read - as much romance as suspense - to while away a lazy sommer or winter day.
Thanks to Bella Books and netgalley for the ARC. The review is left voluntarily.
Hill brings us with Timber Falls a suspense set in a tiny, outback town. When a murder occurs loner FBI agent Carter comes into this close-knit community and finds an easy friendship with Mike, the cop stationed in Timber Falls, and Haley who is still grieving her wife. There is a small nod to the Sullivan & Ross series, but no further exploration.
I loved how Hill catches the small town vibe. The quiet beauty of nature and the community are the backdrop for the story to unfold. I love how the friendships unfold. With a few sentences Hill masterfully sets the tone and atmosphere of life in Timber Falls. The chapters come as swift as the river coming down the mountains and after a slow start it sets a fast pace for the whole story. The story has emotional depth esp. in exploring Haley‘s grief and touching on Carter‘s inner struggles and their loneliness.
The suspense is in comparison a bit flat. Enough to keep us readers engaged, but not wildly menacing or inducing heart palpitations. Some aspects remain unsolved and the suspense part could have been explored in more depth.
A good and easy read - as much romance as suspense - to while away a lazy sommer or winter day.
Thanks to Bella Books and netgalley for the ARC. The review is left voluntarily.
November 11, 2022
Dnf @52%
The vibes are off in this book.
There's a very strict male/female binary language being used for describing men and women, as well as this being so pro-police-could-never-do-anything-wrong. Also where the heck is the mystery.
To pile on more, the narration isn't working for me either. The attempt at changing voices for each character is super distracting.
The vibes are off in this book.
There's a very strict male/female binary language being used for describing men and women, as well as this being so pro-police-could-never-do-anything-wrong. Also where the heck is the mystery.
To pile on more, the narration isn't working for me either. The attempt at changing voices for each character is super distracting.
December 13, 2022
Lonely FBI agent is sent to remote Timber Falls to investigate a gruesome murder. She befriends an equally lonely restaurant owner still mourning the loss of her wife years and years ago. An entertaining murder mystery blended nicely into a gentle romance.
September 9, 2022
this was kinda disappointing to say the least. compared to the other hill books ive read. and i dont feel sorry at all for the predicament one of the protagonists was in. it probably knocked a star down for me. i dont enjoy the help addition of computer algorithm analysis etc thing to the plot anymore (the first two books i read that had it were okay). it just becomes all too convenient and a lot of waiting filled with unmemorable scenes between two mcs. anyway.. gerri hill always writes engaging dialogue that always feel natural coming from the characters. so there’s that. hill’s books are the type of books that i could just breeze through without having to worry about the story meandering too much.
October 29, 2022
It’s 2022 and laws are being proposed to check children’s genitals to determine sports team eligibility, school boards are passing resolutions to force teachers to out trans children to their unsupportive families (making them far more susceptible to homelessness and suicide/self-harm), and trans women are being murdered at alarming rates across the country.
The fear of having men in women’s spaces is one of the most heard concerns from those pushing anti-trans policies. Having a cross-dressing suspect is transphobic and the comments from characters were so disparaging that I almost stopped reading.
Such fear-mongering is unacceptable from within the LGBTQ+ community. Do better Gerri Hill!
The fear of having men in women’s spaces is one of the most heard concerns from those pushing anti-trans policies. Having a cross-dressing suspect is transphobic and the comments from characters were so disparaging that I almost stopped reading.
Such fear-mongering is unacceptable from within the LGBTQ+ community. Do better Gerri Hill!
August 14, 2022
3.5 stars story
5 stars narration
I listened to the audio book narrated by: Abby Craden.
Love how Abby narrates , very easy to listen to and get drawn into her tones, accents. She makes characters come to life.
Gerri Hill is a great writer and for those who haven’t read or listened to any of her books I urge you. Specially our crime and mystery lovers.
I really enjoyed the crime side of the book. Who killed them, is it a he or she , maybe it’s someone they know. I listened with my wife so it was nice trying to work out who the killer might be.
I found a lot of contradiction in the book with the characters. Hayley didn’t want anybody , she didn’t want to loose that memory of her wife. Yet she wants something from Carter even though she said she doesn’t think she’s attracted to her. I understand grief and people take it different but I didn’t think it was Carters place to say it. Finally when they have sex Hayley wakes up like , yeah that what I needed, moving forward. It just didn’t feel realistic.
I personally wasn’t feeling their chemistry at all. A really nice friendship, yes , I could see that blossom and maybe over time they are draw to each other for companionship.
Carter’s birthday falls on the same day of Hayley’s wife passing away. I feel over time with one celebrating and one mourning/ or using that day to remember there ex that a certain type of resentment will start to build.
Aside from there relationship not working for me the book was great.
5 stars narration
I listened to the audio book narrated by: Abby Craden.
Love how Abby narrates , very easy to listen to and get drawn into her tones, accents. She makes characters come to life.
Gerri Hill is a great writer and for those who haven’t read or listened to any of her books I urge you. Specially our crime and mystery lovers.
I really enjoyed the crime side of the book. Who killed them, is it a he or she , maybe it’s someone they know. I listened with my wife so it was nice trying to work out who the killer might be.
I found a lot of contradiction in the book with the characters. Hayley didn’t want anybody , she didn’t want to loose that memory of her wife. Yet she wants something from Carter even though she said she doesn’t think she’s attracted to her. I understand grief and people take it different but I didn’t think it was Carters place to say it. Finally when they have sex Hayley wakes up like , yeah that what I needed, moving forward. It just didn’t feel realistic.
I personally wasn’t feeling their chemistry at all. A really nice friendship, yes , I could see that blossom and maybe over time they are draw to each other for companionship.
Carter’s birthday falls on the same day of Hayley’s wife passing away. I feel over time with one celebrating and one mourning/ or using that day to remember there ex that a certain type of resentment will start to build.
Aside from there relationship not working for me the book was great.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 4, 2022
When a violent murder happens in a small mountain village a lone FBI agent is sent in because of potential ties to another murder. Lynn Carter has been with the FBI for less than a year but was a LAPD homicide detective previously. Working with the town's only police officer she gathers what information she can. Haley Martin owns the Timber Falls Bar and Grill. She purchased the saloon 7 years ago after the tragic death of her wife. She returned to Timber Falls to grieve and because it was where she fell in love. Haley hasn’t been interested in anyone new but Carter may be the one to open her heart.
This has a very loose connection to Hill’s Ross and Sullivan mysteries. They don’t make an appearance but Jason, the Quantico computer genius, gathers all the data. His computer algorithms lead to a potential suspect and tying cases together. The case is interesting but it isn’t menacing. Even though the whole mystery resolves in ten days, Hill gives time for friendship and more between Haley and Carter. She lets them share their backgrounds and struggles. Normally these types of books give short attention to the romance but here its a more even 50/50 split.
I love how easily Gerri Hill can alternate between delightful romances and suspense mystery thrillers. I think this is left open ended enough that Carter could be called upon for a sequel and I will gladly read it. Thank you to NetGalley and Bella Books for an eARC in exchange for an honest review. (4.5 stars)
This has a very loose connection to Hill’s Ross and Sullivan mysteries. They don’t make an appearance but Jason, the Quantico computer genius, gathers all the data. His computer algorithms lead to a potential suspect and tying cases together. The case is interesting but it isn’t menacing. Even though the whole mystery resolves in ten days, Hill gives time for friendship and more between Haley and Carter. She lets them share their backgrounds and struggles. Normally these types of books give short attention to the romance but here its a more even 50/50 split.
I love how easily Gerri Hill can alternate between delightful romances and suspense mystery thrillers. I think this is left open ended enough that Carter could be called upon for a sequel and I will gladly read it. Thank you to NetGalley and Bella Books for an eARC in exchange for an honest review. (4.5 stars)
July 5, 2022
Gerri Hill is a writer I get excited about when I hear a new release is coming. As soon as I received a copy of Timber Falls, it was bumped to the top of my TBR list, and I devoured it in a matter of hours.
Set in the small mountain town of, you guessed it, Timber Falls, this murder mystery/romance contains so many aspects of Hill’s writing style that make her one of the best in this genre. Haley is the saloon owner who returned to Timber Falls to mourn the death of her wife and never left. Or moved forward. Carter is the shamed cop who has somehow managed to be recruited by the FBI. Sent to Tiber Falls to investigate a murder, she meets Haley, and a friendship is formed, paving the way for more. Carter works with the sole local law enforcement, and they uncover clues to find the killer.
There are so many reasons this book works well; there is a small reference to Ross and Sullivan from Devils Rock, which was a nice little trip down memory lane, but nothing in-depth. Hill uses her words to describe the picturesque surroundings so vividly and succinctly, the characters communicate with each other which prevents so much unnecessary angst, and the plot is fresh and exciting.
There is romance and cute banter, mystery, and suspense and it all intertwines perfectly so that the reader isn’t left feeling like there is too much of some and not enough of another.
I recieved and ARC from Bella Books through NetGalley for my honest review.
Set in the small mountain town of, you guessed it, Timber Falls, this murder mystery/romance contains so many aspects of Hill’s writing style that make her one of the best in this genre. Haley is the saloon owner who returned to Timber Falls to mourn the death of her wife and never left. Or moved forward. Carter is the shamed cop who has somehow managed to be recruited by the FBI. Sent to Tiber Falls to investigate a murder, she meets Haley, and a friendship is formed, paving the way for more. Carter works with the sole local law enforcement, and they uncover clues to find the killer.
There are so many reasons this book works well; there is a small reference to Ross and Sullivan from Devils Rock, which was a nice little trip down memory lane, but nothing in-depth. Hill uses her words to describe the picturesque surroundings so vividly and succinctly, the characters communicate with each other which prevents so much unnecessary angst, and the plot is fresh and exciting.
There is romance and cute banter, mystery, and suspense and it all intertwines perfectly so that the reader isn’t left feeling like there is too much of some and not enough of another.
I recieved and ARC from Bella Books through NetGalley for my honest review.
July 18, 2022
4.25 stars
June 30, 2022
Gerri Hill is the only lesfic writer I can think of who can write absolutely any genre, and consistently produce top-quality work. Romance, mystery, paranormal ... Timber Falls is no exception. As always in a Gerri Hill book, the location setting is undeniably one of the main characters. The descriptions of the mountains and the river and the falls are so clearly defined that I could easily visualize the entire town.
Haley and Carter are a compelling couple, each with her own backstory and personal baggage to overcome. Forced proximity is part of it, sure, but the pairing completely works. I was drawn in immediately, and in fact, was 30% in before I ever even looked to see how far I was. It's a great day when Gerri Hill releases a new book.
Haley and Carter are a compelling couple, each with her own backstory and personal baggage to overcome. Forced proximity is part of it, sure, but the pairing completely works. I was drawn in immediately, and in fact, was 30% in before I ever even looked to see how far I was. It's a great day when Gerri Hill releases a new book.
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