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Brand of Justice #1
Cold Dead Night
The FBI betrayed her. Now they need her.
Private Investigator Kenna Banbury lost everything two years ago at the hands of a serial killer. From the ashes of that encounter, she’s built a life she believes in, searching for the lost and forgotten all over the western US.
Bringing her own brand of justice.
When a series of murders drags her into an FBI investigation, Kenna finds herself back in the place where it all went wrong. Struggling to make sense of the case, Kenna’s past and present collide in a deadly plot that risks another betrayal and threatens to shatter everything she’s built.
Kenna faces the darkest part of her past in this first book of a brand-new series from Lisa Phillips.
*Christian Thriller
Private Investigator Kenna Banbury lost everything two years ago at the hands of a serial killer. From the ashes of that encounter, she’s built a life she believes in, searching for the lost and forgotten all over the western US.
Bringing her own brand of justice.
When a series of murders drags her into an FBI investigation, Kenna finds herself back in the place where it all went wrong. Struggling to make sense of the case, Kenna’s past and present collide in a deadly plot that risks another betrayal and threatens to shatter everything she’s built.
Kenna faces the darkest part of her past in this first book of a brand-new series from Lisa Phillips.
*Christian Thriller
424 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 25, 2022
1504 people are currently reading
694 people want to read
About the author
Lisa Phillips
167 books871 followersLisa Phillips is a USA Today and top ten Publishers Weekly bestselling author of over 80 books that span Harlequin’s Love Inspired Suspense line, independently published series romantic suspense, and thriller novels. She’s discovered a penchant for high-stakes stories of mayhem and disaster where you can find made-for-each-other love that always ends in happily ever after.
Lisa is a British ex-pat who grew up an hour outside of London and attended Calvary Chapel Bible College, where she met her husband. He’s from California, but nobody’s perfect. It wasn’t until her Bible College graduation that she figured out she was a writer (someone told her). Lisa is a worship leader, tea aficionado, and dog lover of two crazy Airedales.
Lisa is a British ex-pat who grew up an hour outside of London and attended Calvary Chapel Bible College, where she met her husband. He’s from California, but nobody’s perfect. It wasn’t until her Bible College graduation that she figured out she was a writer (someone told her). Lisa is a worship leader, tea aficionado, and dog lover of two crazy Airedales.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 215 reviews
September 5, 2022
This is the first time I have read anything by Lisa Phillips, but I now plan to read more! Cold Dead Night was a fabulously twisted story of a former FBI agent who had lost it all after being captured by a serial killer and betrayed by her former coworkers and friends.
I am a big fan of romance in the plot, so I was surprised at myself with how much I liked this story even though there is not really a romantic thread. I could see the possibility of a slow build toward a relationship for the main character that could potentially occur in future books, though.
Cold Dead Night is a thriller and does deal with some intense scenes both in the present day story and in the flashbacks and nightmares that Kenna experiences. She is a very capable, yet traumatized individual. This definitely comes through in the way she processes each event in the story. Her distrust borders on paranoia at times, yet is definitely valid.
This is a long book full of complicated twists and turns. I enjoyed it from start to finish and look forward to reading more books in this series.
I read this book through Kindle Unlimited. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
I am a big fan of romance in the plot, so I was surprised at myself with how much I liked this story even though there is not really a romantic thread. I could see the possibility of a slow build toward a relationship for the main character that could potentially occur in future books, though.
Cold Dead Night is a thriller and does deal with some intense scenes both in the present day story and in the flashbacks and nightmares that Kenna experiences. She is a very capable, yet traumatized individual. This definitely comes through in the way she processes each event in the story. Her distrust borders on paranoia at times, yet is definitely valid.
This is a long book full of complicated twists and turns. I enjoyed it from start to finish and look forward to reading more books in this series.
I read this book through Kindle Unlimited. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
July 13, 2023
Private Investigator Kenna Banburry is back in Salt Lake City, where she lost everything two years ago when a serial killer deeply injured her and killed her boyfriend. Since then, she has been working to solve missing person cases and bring the bad guys in. She has just done the same, when a series of murders in Salt Lake City turn towards her as the one behind them. Is she out for revenge now?
Cold Dead Night by Lisa Phillips is a fast moving book with a complicated plot that will keeps the reader guessing right up to the end. I did have an inkling who the killer was but I didn't figure a lot of it out until nearly the end. There is the inkling of a romantic relationship in this book but otherwise it more of a suspense book than romance. There isn't much in this book in the way of faith, although there is indication that Kenna has faith in God. It took me awhile to warm up to her as a character because she was so defensive through much of the book. I didn't really feel a connection to any of the characters except maybe Cabot. Honestly, this was a bit more descriptive of murders and such than I really wanted to read right now. It was definitely well-written and if you like that sort of fictionalized true crime type of story, then I think you will enjoy Cold Dead Night. Right now, I would rather read lighter books with more mystery and humor than crazed killers so it was a bit much for me. However, I am sure this is up many people's alley right now. This is the first book in a series and I do think the author has done this genre well and the next book will be just as good.
I received a copy of this book from the author through JustRead Tours. All opinions within this review are my own.
Cold Dead Night by Lisa Phillips is a fast moving book with a complicated plot that will keeps the reader guessing right up to the end. I did have an inkling who the killer was but I didn't figure a lot of it out until nearly the end. There is the inkling of a romantic relationship in this book but otherwise it more of a suspense book than romance. There isn't much in this book in the way of faith, although there is indication that Kenna has faith in God. It took me awhile to warm up to her as a character because she was so defensive through much of the book. I didn't really feel a connection to any of the characters except maybe Cabot. Honestly, this was a bit more descriptive of murders and such than I really wanted to read right now. It was definitely well-written and if you like that sort of fictionalized true crime type of story, then I think you will enjoy Cold Dead Night. Right now, I would rather read lighter books with more mystery and humor than crazed killers so it was a bit much for me. However, I am sure this is up many people's alley right now. This is the first book in a series and I do think the author has done this genre well and the next book will be just as good.
I received a copy of this book from the author through JustRead Tours. All opinions within this review are my own.
December 7, 2022
Well, I enjoyed reading this book … I loved all the plot twists, and there’s a cute little dog that the main character rescues and adopts … but character development was rather tedious all around …
Kenna is a former FBI special agent who has turned herself into a private investigator who takes kidnapping cases that the police fail to resolve … she was forced to leave the FBI as unfit to serve, because she and her partner/boyfriend were kidnapped and tortured by a serial killer and she struggles to overcome the memories and emotions of that encounter and the death of her boyfriend …
While on a case in Salt Lake City, Kenna is sucked into the murder case of a serial killer, where her business card is found at the scene … other kidnappings and murders soon follow, and the FBI agents working the case suspect that she might be the killer … Kenna must fight to prove her innocence and stop the serial killer before he or she strikes again …
There were lots of interesting plot twists, and it was hard to put this book down to actually decorate and bake cookies and other Christmas stuff … but it took me awhile to warm up to the characters … Kenna is all over the map when it comes to expressing her emotions, and her thought processes and emotions were awkwardly written … but again, I couldn’t put this book down, and I look forward to reading the next book in the series …
Kenna is a former FBI special agent who has turned herself into a private investigator who takes kidnapping cases that the police fail to resolve … she was forced to leave the FBI as unfit to serve, because she and her partner/boyfriend were kidnapped and tortured by a serial killer and she struggles to overcome the memories and emotions of that encounter and the death of her boyfriend …
While on a case in Salt Lake City, Kenna is sucked into the murder case of a serial killer, where her business card is found at the scene … other kidnappings and murders soon follow, and the FBI agents working the case suspect that she might be the killer … Kenna must fight to prove her innocence and stop the serial killer before he or she strikes again …
There were lots of interesting plot twists, and it was hard to put this book down to actually decorate and bake cookies and other Christmas stuff … but it took me awhile to warm up to the characters … Kenna is all over the map when it comes to expressing her emotions, and her thought processes and emotions were awkwardly written … but again, I couldn’t put this book down, and I look forward to reading the next book in the series …
September 13, 2022
How can it all possibly be connected?
It's been a pretty long time since I've read a Lisa Phillips book but having liked her Love Inspired Suspense novels that I did read, I thought book one in a new series would be the perfect way to dive into one of her full-length titles. I must say that I was entirely right in that assessment.
More thriller than romantic suspense Cold Dead Night was riveting read right from the start. There were more twists and turns than your average city traffic spaghetti bowl and I was kept thoroughly guessing on much of it. Though, I will confess that I did guess the mastermind's identity fairly early on and then nearly allowed myself to be distracted away from my suspicions.
The mix of past and present was very well presented in Cold Dead Night. I liked how carefully they were layered together to create such a cohesive and spine-tingling tale.
I really liked author Lisa Phillips' choice in location, Salt Lake City, for this first Brand Of Justice novel. Salt Lake City has a pretty dramatic landscape that is just made for murder and mayhem of the fictional variety.
I did enjoy reading every chilling page of Brand Of Justice book one and it is a series I'd really like to keep reading. Lisa Phillips had me on the edge of my seat with Cold Dead Night and I am most eagerly anticipating the release of the next Brand Of Justice novel...
(I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)
It's been a pretty long time since I've read a Lisa Phillips book but having liked her Love Inspired Suspense novels that I did read, I thought book one in a new series would be the perfect way to dive into one of her full-length titles. I must say that I was entirely right in that assessment.
More thriller than romantic suspense Cold Dead Night was riveting read right from the start. There were more twists and turns than your average city traffic spaghetti bowl and I was kept thoroughly guessing on much of it. Though, I will confess that I did guess the mastermind's identity fairly early on and then nearly allowed myself to be distracted away from my suspicions.
The mix of past and present was very well presented in Cold Dead Night. I liked how carefully they were layered together to create such a cohesive and spine-tingling tale.
I really liked author Lisa Phillips' choice in location, Salt Lake City, for this first Brand Of Justice novel. Salt Lake City has a pretty dramatic landscape that is just made for murder and mayhem of the fictional variety.
I did enjoy reading every chilling page of Brand Of Justice book one and it is a series I'd really like to keep reading. Lisa Phillips had me on the edge of my seat with Cold Dead Night and I am most eagerly anticipating the release of the next Brand Of Justice novel...
(I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)
April 2, 2025
Couldn’t really get into the story.
September 4, 2022
This is the first book I've read by Lisa Phillips. I have seen many romantic suspense fans rave about her books so I decided to pick up this newest release, not realizing that it is more of a thriller than romantic suspense. I've read some psychological thrillers in the past but have not read one recently and wasn't expecting this book to be an intense psychological thriller with a host of murders. Perhaps my misguided expectation played a part, but I found the book a bit graphic and gruesome. The plot, however, is incredibly detailed and intricate - there are so many suspects and leads that you won't be able to guess who the mastermind is behind all the incidents until the villain is actually revealed at the end.
The entire story is told through Kenna's voice via third person limited narrative. This made it somewhat difficult to get to know Jaxton, the FBI agent who becomes her pseudo-partner in investigating these crimes. Kenna is severely traumatized and her thought process is sometimes hard to follow due to the trauma but her angst, fear, and nightmares were quite real and vivid. If you enjoy psychological thrillers, you will enjoy this book. It's also the first book in the series so you'll get to see more of Kenna and Jaxton in the future.
I received the book from the publisher via JustRead Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.
The entire story is told through Kenna's voice via third person limited narrative. This made it somewhat difficult to get to know Jaxton, the FBI agent who becomes her pseudo-partner in investigating these crimes. Kenna is severely traumatized and her thought process is sometimes hard to follow due to the trauma but her angst, fear, and nightmares were quite real and vivid. If you enjoy psychological thrillers, you will enjoy this book. It's also the first book in the series so you'll get to see more of Kenna and Jaxton in the future.
I received the book from the publisher via JustRead Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.
September 7, 2022
Cold Dead Night by Lisa Phillips is a fabulous new Christian crime suspense that had me glued from the start. It is the first book in the Brand Of Justice series and I cannot wait for the subsequent books.
The action came thick and fast. I read with heart racing and pulse rising as the body count grew.
This was a cleverly constructed and well executed crime suspense. The action was fast paced. Just as I thought the perpetrator was close, the action veered off in another direction. I clung on for dear life.
All the characters were well drawn and realistic. I liked the lead character who was still recovering from a trauma two years previously (before the book opened). She refused to let her fear get in the way of doing her job.
I loved the inclusion of a rescue dog who had a big, caring personality and was a character in her own right.
Past grudges were buried as lives were fought for, but for some, revenge drove them on. Revenge is a terrible master, creating an ugly personality.
A character has flashbacks and regrets, and is frozen to a moment in time. Nothing could have been altered but still it rules a life, struggling with PTSD.
I thoroughly enjoyed Cold Dead Night. It was an exciting, thrilling start to a new series which I cannot wait to read.
I received a free copy from Just Read Tours. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
The action came thick and fast. I read with heart racing and pulse rising as the body count grew.
This was a cleverly constructed and well executed crime suspense. The action was fast paced. Just as I thought the perpetrator was close, the action veered off in another direction. I clung on for dear life.
All the characters were well drawn and realistic. I liked the lead character who was still recovering from a trauma two years previously (before the book opened). She refused to let her fear get in the way of doing her job.
I loved the inclusion of a rescue dog who had a big, caring personality and was a character in her own right.
Past grudges were buried as lives were fought for, but for some, revenge drove them on. Revenge is a terrible master, creating an ugly personality.
A character has flashbacks and regrets, and is frozen to a moment in time. Nothing could have been altered but still it rules a life, struggling with PTSD.
I thoroughly enjoyed Cold Dead Night. It was an exciting, thrilling start to a new series which I cannot wait to read.
I received a free copy from Just Read Tours. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
November 9, 2022
I struggled with this book. The plot, suspense, and action were well done.
I didn't like the protagonist. While I can't fully grasp her struggles through her journey (no spoilers), she seemed too strong to complain as much as she did.
I'm hoping to read the next one. By the end of the book, I had hope for what might develop.
I didn't like the protagonist. While I can't fully grasp her struggles through her journey (no spoilers), she seemed too strong to complain as much as she did.
I'm hoping to read the next one. By the end of the book, I had hope for what might develop.
September 3, 2022
Taut, intense suspense with a surprising twist at the end.
September 25, 2022
This is the first book I have read by Lisa Phillips, though she has been on my Kindle TBR list for a while now! I enjoyed the fast paced of this story and that the events of the story keeps the reader on their toes, as more and more things accumulate to make the FBI wonder what is really going on and who to pin the blame on for the murders that point to Kenna. I wish that we weren't in Kenna's head quite so much, since she comes across as a little paranoid that the FBI wants to pin the murders on her without really saying why she thinks that. Her past comes out a little bit at a time, making one realize why she has become who she is.
While the story is suspenseful and full of twists and turns, it was a little bit grittier than what I usually read. The serial killer who goes after young girls really bothered me. It's also pretty disturbing what happened to Kenna when she was in the FBI. I'm a lightweight when it comes to mysteries though, but I can still say that, for the most part, the author handled things well and didn't go into a lot of details.
I look forward to reading more books by the author!
I received this book from Just Read tours. This is my honest review.
While the story is suspenseful and full of twists and turns, it was a little bit grittier than what I usually read. The serial killer who goes after young girls really bothered me. It's also pretty disturbing what happened to Kenna when she was in the FBI. I'm a lightweight when it comes to mysteries though, but I can still say that, for the most part, the author handled things well and didn't go into a lot of details.
I look forward to reading more books by the author!
I received this book from Just Read tours. This is my honest review.
September 2, 2022
She's investigating, she's a target and she's a suspect. This fast-paced story felt long with a lot of moving parts. There's so much happening - a very elaborate scheme - all while Kenna, former FBI agent turned PI, remains under suspicion.
Kenna thought she'd survived the last two years as she's been free to do her own thing, mostly on the run from her past and any relationships. This case makes her question her choices and her future, and whether she can trust again.
Definitely looking forward to the next book to see what happens in Kenna's life after this case closes!
Kenna thought she'd survived the last two years as she's been free to do her own thing, mostly on the run from her past and any relationships. This case makes her question her choices and her future, and whether she can trust again.
Definitely looking forward to the next book to see what happens in Kenna's life after this case closes!
October 6, 2022
An explosive first in a new series by Lisa Phillips!
I loved the pacing of this book and the high stakes. A perfect thriller that really delved deep but also kept momentum.
I enjoyed Kenna’s character (despite - or because of?-her bill headed nature 😄) and was rooting for her. I can’t wait to see how she progresses as a character.
This is a bit more gritty (read: higher body count) but it wasn’t gratuitous and fit the storyline. If you like thrillers this should be your next read!
My rating: 4.5*
—-
Thanks to the author and JustReads tours for a gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
I loved the pacing of this book and the high stakes. A perfect thriller that really delved deep but also kept momentum.
I enjoyed Kenna’s character (despite - or because of?-her bill headed nature 😄) and was rooting for her. I can’t wait to see how she progresses as a character.
This is a bit more gritty (read: higher body count) but it wasn’t gratuitous and fit the storyline. If you like thrillers this should be your next read!
My rating: 4.5*
—-
Thanks to the author and JustReads tours for a gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
September 6, 2022
Phillips had me from the very beginning of the story and she did not let up. My goodness it was such a thrilling ride, with twists and turns, excitement, danger, and everything in between. I couldn’t pry my eyes away from the story. In fact, I read it in one day.
First of all, I love how Philips gives little tidbits of Kenna’s past in a chapter here and a chapter there. I know some people may prefer getting it all at once, but I like that it was divided throughout the book. I felt it allowed you to really see why Kenna does what she does, and why she reacts to certain things. It was an added layer to the story that worked, and gave more depth to her character.
Second, the fast pace of the story really kept me on my toes, and I loved that. Here I am sitting at the edge of my seat as she’s going for a serial killer, and then thinking I can rest for a moment when he’s caught, but surprise. A dead body with Kenna’s business card is found and I don’t know what to make of it. Honestly, I wasn’t sure how all the different cases were going to come together in the end, but Phillips did an amazing job of pulling it all together.
Suspense fans are going to love Cold Dead Night. If you’re like me, you’ll probably read it in a day. Maybe even in one sitting!
I purchased a copy of this book for myself. All thoughts are my own.
First of all, I love how Philips gives little tidbits of Kenna’s past in a chapter here and a chapter there. I know some people may prefer getting it all at once, but I like that it was divided throughout the book. I felt it allowed you to really see why Kenna does what she does, and why she reacts to certain things. It was an added layer to the story that worked, and gave more depth to her character.
Second, the fast pace of the story really kept me on my toes, and I loved that. Here I am sitting at the edge of my seat as she’s going for a serial killer, and then thinking I can rest for a moment when he’s caught, but surprise. A dead body with Kenna’s business card is found and I don’t know what to make of it. Honestly, I wasn’t sure how all the different cases were going to come together in the end, but Phillips did an amazing job of pulling it all together.
Suspense fans are going to love Cold Dead Night. If you’re like me, you’ll probably read it in a day. Maybe even in one sitting!
I purchased a copy of this book for myself. All thoughts are my own.
September 6, 2022
Cold Dead Night is one of those emotionally charged suspense novels that keep me awake much too late into the night then also manages to intrude into my dreams. Filled with complex characters and a plot so filled with unexpected twists and surprises, this book was one I had to finish in one sitting.
Private investigator Kenna Banbury had lost her position with the FBI two years earlier but while back in town on a case, she found herself drawn into a new case working with her former team, most of whom think the worst of her. Trust is not exactly very high on their list. As the story progressed I gradually learned Kenna’s backstory and began to understand the tension between her and those she had originally worked with.
More than enough action, danger, drama, and romance fills the pages of this suspense filled tale to satisfy even the most discriminating fan. I can’t wait to read the next installment!
I voluntarily reviewed a digital copy of this book provided by JustReads Publicity. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
Private investigator Kenna Banbury had lost her position with the FBI two years earlier but while back in town on a case, she found herself drawn into a new case working with her former team, most of whom think the worst of her. Trust is not exactly very high on their list. As the story progressed I gradually learned Kenna’s backstory and began to understand the tension between her and those she had originally worked with.
More than enough action, danger, drama, and romance fills the pages of this suspense filled tale to satisfy even the most discriminating fan. I can’t wait to read the next installment!
I voluntarily reviewed a digital copy of this book provided by JustReads Publicity. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
September 8, 2022
This was an intense suspense novel. I was captivated from the first page. I really felt connected to Kenna and what she was having to go through with dealing with her demons from her past and the ones in her present. There were a lot of things that were unexpected. I was not expecting the person behind everything to be that person. I normally have a hard time reading/watching something with serial killers in it but the author wrote the story tastefully and in a way that wasn’t too graphic. I thought this was a great suspense and I would read other books by this author.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
March 23, 2023
When I first heard about this book, I knew I'd love it. What's not to love about an FBI agent drummed out by colleagues and then shocker! They need you. Get to work! ???
But seriously, this book could serve as a textbook for how to write a gripping, can't-put-it-down, perfectly-paced suspense-filled thriller. Stopping at the end of a night's read? Torture. Did I cheat sometimes? Oh, yeah. Am I ticked off at myself that I don't have books two and three yet? Ahem. You have no idea.
Cold Dead Night offers a physical thriller combined with a psychological one in one neat package. It's horrible... and beautiful. The character growth hurts to watch, but it would hurt more if it didn't happen. Kenna has a long way to go, but even with the knocks she's taken--knocks that have actually held her back from her former brilliance in some ways--she's on her game, too. Because just as terrible as everything has been for her, and just because it's created a difficult situation, it has also added different and new layers of strength to make up for what has been frightened, stolen, and beaten from her.
And if that doesn't make for a great book, what does?
But seriously, this book could serve as a textbook for how to write a gripping, can't-put-it-down, perfectly-paced suspense-filled thriller. Stopping at the end of a night's read? Torture. Did I cheat sometimes? Oh, yeah. Am I ticked off at myself that I don't have books two and three yet? Ahem. You have no idea.
Cold Dead Night offers a physical thriller combined with a psychological one in one neat package. It's horrible... and beautiful. The character growth hurts to watch, but it would hurt more if it didn't happen. Kenna has a long way to go, but even with the knocks she's taken--knocks that have actually held her back from her former brilliance in some ways--she's on her game, too. Because just as terrible as everything has been for her, and just because it's created a difficult situation, it has also added different and new layers of strength to make up for what has been frightened, stolen, and beaten from her.
And if that doesn't make for a great book, what does?
January 16, 2024
Kenna Banbury lost everything two years ago as an FBI agent, when her partner and her were kidnapped. She lost her job and reputation. She's living a solitary life as a now private investigator.
Now someone wants to pull her back into cases that implicate her. How can she help the Salt Lake City police and FBI solve them without being a suspect herself?
This could be made into a movie with the suspense, mystery, and twists and turns. My first Phillips book and will try to finish this trilogy at some point. While this is marked as Christian Fiction, it is light in it. In fact, I wouldn't have even thought it classified as that genre as there are really only a couple of off-hand comments.
Now someone wants to pull her back into cases that implicate her. How can she help the Salt Lake City police and FBI solve them without being a suspect herself?
This could be made into a movie with the suspense, mystery, and twists and turns. My first Phillips book and will try to finish this trilogy at some point. While this is marked as Christian Fiction, it is light in it. In fact, I wouldn't have even thought it classified as that genre as there are really only a couple of off-hand comments.
February 7, 2024
unbelievable plot, too many twists
I am a Lisa Phillips fan but this one fell short. This book was exhausting to read. Too many twist and turns, a plot and bad guy that was hard to believe. The only redeeming quality was that the good guys prevailed.
I am a Lisa Phillips fan but this one fell short. This book was exhausting to read. Too many twist and turns, a plot and bad guy that was hard to believe. The only redeeming quality was that the good guys prevailed.
August 5, 2024
Just really confused how this book got so many good ratings. The main character would repeat herself to such an extent it felt like I was living in Groundhog Day reading the book. The book was LONG but the story was short. It was 90% lead up and 10% action. Would not recommend.
August 22, 2024
Needs a lot of editing
Very drawn out and repetitive. I wanted to quit reading it but forced myself to finish to see how it ended. There were major holes in the story like using a tire iron with the tendons in her arms cut. The story could be told in half as many pages.
Very drawn out and repetitive. I wanted to quit reading it but forced myself to finish to see how it ended. There were major holes in the story like using a tire iron with the tendons in her arms cut. The story could be told in half as many pages.
May 21, 2023
Hard for me to read. Didn’t connect with any characters. Didn’t like the main character. Just not for me
September 5, 2022
Cold Dead Night by Lisa Phillips excited me as a reader because the idea of a serial killer chasing a former cop. With plenty of body count in the novel, Phillips definitely keeps the readers guessing and wondering who is taking all the women and men and causing the hunt for the heroine. One of the quirks about the novel is the main heroine’s past. I wanted to know more about what actually happens. The readers see two flashback scene that show what incident happened, and we see emotionally how the heroine struggles with this horrible incident. However, the other detectives at her previous precinct do not trust or approve of her “working” with them on the case. They do not trust her. Readers are not told why not. It is hinted at, but I wanted more information on why this is the case. It just felt really weird as I was reading the novel. It felt like it was not justified, and I did not understand the reasoning of why they did not trust the heroine. Overall, Cold Dead Night does have plenty of action and a serial killer on the loose, which I loved, but there were some back story that I wanted to be solved to round out the story.
I received a complimentary copy of Cold Dead Night by Lisa Phillips through JustRead Tours, but the opinions stated are all my own.
I received a complimentary copy of Cold Dead Night by Lisa Phillips through JustRead Tours, but the opinions stated are all my own.
November 28, 2022
This was a bit different than the author's usual fare. Every book of hers I have read was romantic suspense, but this one didn't have the romance part..though there was a hint of interest between Kenna and Jax.
It was still a great read. Kenna was not really a likable character for a lot of the book. Sure, the backstory the author created for her gave reason for her being so standoffish with others, but she was plain rude, especially to Jax, who was so much more of a likable character than she was for the majority of the book.
She did finally come around a lot, which helped.
This is Christian fiction, and I was disappointed in a couple of things: the use of "pissed" - that is a word I don't believe belongs in a Christian's vocabulary or a Christian book - and "damned if I do, damned if I don't"....granted, the use isn't really a curse word, but still....not necessary.
I did enjoy the book, and ordered the second one before I finished this one. Looking forward to more in this series.
It was still a great read. Kenna was not really a likable character for a lot of the book. Sure, the backstory the author created for her gave reason for her being so standoffish with others, but she was plain rude, especially to Jax, who was so much more of a likable character than she was for the majority of the book.
She did finally come around a lot, which helped.
This is Christian fiction, and I was disappointed in a couple of things: the use of "pissed" - that is a word I don't believe belongs in a Christian's vocabulary or a Christian book - and "damned if I do, damned if I don't"....granted, the use isn't really a curse word, but still....not necessary.
I did enjoy the book, and ordered the second one before I finished this one. Looking forward to more in this series.
October 22, 2022
A 2.5 rating for me rounded up to 3 for Goodreads. I had really been looking forward to reading this one-it looked really good. However, once I got into the story-it had a darker storyline than I anticipated-and I struggled with that. There were a couple of times I contemplated not finishing and at least once I almost skipped a chapter because it was just too much for me. I did persevere to the end, and I am glad I stuck with it. I enjoyed parts of the story, but it was just a bit too dark overall for me to really enjoy it. I love a good CF suspense read but the darker ones are not my cup of tea. Excited to try more of Lisa's other series. I have really enjoyed her LIS books and I am hoping some of her other series aren't quite as dark as this one.
October 18, 2022
3 stars for the writing but 4 overall because she didn’t wait to the very end to tie up loose ends, nor did she fail to have a nice surprise. Overall 4/5.
Though . . . I got it. I mean, over and over.
Good demonstration of PTSD, and the autonomic nervous “fight, flight or freeze.”
I prefer stories with more than one POV so this is a really good rating considering it is entirely told from one perspective.
I’d leave more/better review but I’m tired.
Though . . . I got it. I mean, over and over.
Good demonstration of PTSD, and the autonomic nervous “fight, flight or freeze.”
I prefer stories with more than one POV so this is a really good rating considering it is entirely told from one perspective.
I’d leave more/better review but I’m tired.
September 8, 2022
This book had me hooked from the beginning and never let go until the end and left me wanting more. This is action at it’s finest and Kenna and Jax make a fine team even though they don’t trust each other. The plot is exciting and has many twists to it. I enjoyed it so very much and can’t wait for book number two.
January 1, 2024
Suspense filled with twists and turns. Keeps you on the edge of your seat.
September 14, 2022
Cold Dead Night will definitely hook you in with the first sentence. This is more of a thriller than a suspense novel, so it’s a little more detailed in some areas than I am used to. It didn’t detract from the story for me, it honestly made it feel more real.
Kenna Banbury is a former FBI agent who has left the force and become a private investigator. The details surrounding her departure from the FBI are an intricate part of the storyline for this book. She suffers from PTSD and graphic nightmares relating to her past experience.
She’s being framed for a series of murders, while also being targeted herself. Her former colleagues in the FBI don’t trust her, but she’s got an ally in Special Agent Oliver Jaxton. He is new and unfamiliar with her past.
As the plot unfolds you can’t help but get more and more drawn in and invested in her story. The supporting characters are very well done, and I grew to really like Jaxton.
This is the first in a new series so we will get to see more of Jaxton and Kenna!
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. A positive review was not required. All views and opinions are my own.
Kenna Banbury is a former FBI agent who has left the force and become a private investigator. The details surrounding her departure from the FBI are an intricate part of the storyline for this book. She suffers from PTSD and graphic nightmares relating to her past experience.
She’s being framed for a series of murders, while also being targeted herself. Her former colleagues in the FBI don’t trust her, but she’s got an ally in Special Agent Oliver Jaxton. He is new and unfamiliar with her past.
As the plot unfolds you can’t help but get more and more drawn in and invested in her story. The supporting characters are very well done, and I grew to really like Jaxton.
This is the first in a new series so we will get to see more of Jaxton and Kenna!
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. A positive review was not required. All views and opinions are my own.
September 5, 2022
What a story!
Lisa Phillips is a master at plotting and world-building. Her PI Kenna Banbury has spent the last two years finding the missing or sometimes, bringing closure to families when she finds them too late. Kenna is exceptionally good at this, having been trained in law enforcement by her dad as she grew up and later, as a special agent herself.
Until, suddenly, she wasn't. And the pain and loss she has to experience daily is so bad that she packs it away in a box inside her heart. It only peeks out at night during her dreams...or her nightmares.
Suddenly, she's back in Salt Lake City where her troubles began; and a killer is connecting her to a string of murders. Kenna is innocent; but the FBI and police around her aren't so certain. Will Kenna find the killer before something unimaginable happens?
WHAT a book. I can't remember the last time I read something that made me a little afraid of going to bed at night--but Cold Dead Night did it. I also fell in love with Phillips' protagonist Kenna. So much going on inside her AND around her. I totally rooted for her. You will love this book if you're a fan of police procedurals, suspense books, and thrillers. I personally am looking forward to more great books from Lisa Phillips!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Lisa Phillips is a master at plotting and world-building. Her PI Kenna Banbury has spent the last two years finding the missing or sometimes, bringing closure to families when she finds them too late. Kenna is exceptionally good at this, having been trained in law enforcement by her dad as she grew up and later, as a special agent herself.
Until, suddenly, she wasn't. And the pain and loss she has to experience daily is so bad that she packs it away in a box inside her heart. It only peeks out at night during her dreams...or her nightmares.
Suddenly, she's back in Salt Lake City where her troubles began; and a killer is connecting her to a string of murders. Kenna is innocent; but the FBI and police around her aren't so certain. Will Kenna find the killer before something unimaginable happens?
WHAT a book. I can't remember the last time I read something that made me a little afraid of going to bed at night--but Cold Dead Night did it. I also fell in love with Phillips' protagonist Kenna. So much going on inside her AND around her. I totally rooted for her. You will love this book if you're a fan of police procedurals, suspense books, and thrillers. I personally am looking forward to more great books from Lisa Phillips!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
September 11, 2022
I have only ever read a short novella by Lisa Phillips in a romance collection, so this is basically my first book I've read by her. I found it engaging and suspenseful and I was never sure what was going on. I didn't figure out who was behind everything until the book revealed it which was a nice change from normal. I liked Jax and seeing him get Kenna to trust him. There were a couple of things that threw me out of the story for a little bit (A picture showed Bradley's parents and 3 brothers and then later it says he was an only child. Kenna swinging a tire iron when her hands weren't working. Someone was called another person's cousin when he was a nephew.) I am glad to know that this is the first book in a new series and I look forward to reading the rest of the series and more from Lisa Phillips.
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