Chasing the Edge

Cari Turnlyle #1

by Leslie A. Piggott

Brenington is a suburban town known only for its prestigious, private college, Onore University. Students undergo a rigorous screening and admissions process before being accepted into the fold. When their rising track star collapses dead as he tries to clear the last hurdle, sports writer Cari Turnlyle suspects foul play. As she tries to dig deeper, she continually encounters obstacles. Within hours of the hurdler’s death, another member of the school’s athletic community turns up dead, leading Cari to turn to her childhood friend, Detective Genevieve Viacorte. But even Detective Viacorte refuses to acknowledge her theory.

Cari has always dreamed of being a front-page news writer. She can’t help but imagine that this could be her big break. As she struggles to toe the line of integrity and ambition, Cari starts to see her dream slipping away. The long-time lead reporter for the Brenington Beagle continually thwarts her progress, leaving her job hanging in the balance. Can she find the truth without losing her friends and her dream in the process?

227 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 27, 2022

About the author

Leslie Piggott is a stay-at-home mom who lives in Buda, Texas. She and her husband, Brad, have two children. She has been a long distance runner since middle school and following college graduation began running marathons as a hobby. She has since completed fourteen full marathons. Leslie has always loved being creative and in addition to writing, she also knits, crochets, quilts, sews bags and dresses for her daughter, and does watercolor paintings. Always up for a challenge, she frequently designs her own quilt or tote bag patterns.

Leslie enjoys volunteering in her children's schools as well as within her church and community when possible. In fact, she donates many of her craft and sewing projects to a local silent auction, which she organizes annually. The proceeds from the auction support a memorial fund for her neighbors who tragically lost their son in 2011. Additionally, she also enjoys giving away many of her creations to friends, teachers, neighbors, and other loved ones as gifts.

Prior to becoming a stay-at-home mom, Leslie worked in the field of biomedical sciences, receiving her doctorate in 2008 from the University of Texas Health Sciences Center at Houston. After earning her degree, she worked as an adjunct professor at Houston Baptist University teaching introduction to microbiology to pre-nursing students. When their family relocated to the Austin area, she took on the role of being a full-time stay-at-home mom. She is active in her church, including helping with the food pantry as well as singing in the choir. She has assisted with the children's choir program at the church, including writing two melodramas for the children to perform for the congregation and community. Leslie began writing poetry as an outlet to express her feelings during the COVID-19 pandemic. She has published two books of poetry with watercolor illustrations and recently branched off into writing crime thrillers.

Reviews

[Lulu · Rating 4 out of 5]

Chasing the Edge is the first book in the Cari Turnlyle series written by Leslie Piggott. Cari is a journalist who has returned to her hometown, eager to make a name for herself as a reporter. She finds herself in a gripping mystery when a star athlete at the local college collapses and dies during a track meet. An autopsy reveals no clear explanation, leading to growing speculation about what really happened.

This is a quick, engaging read that blends elements of sports, science, and investigative journalism. My one complaint is that Cari, the supposed protagonist doesn't really take center stage as much as you would expect being that it's her series. For instance, Detective Viacorte and Runimoss often feel more prominent than Cari herself.

Despite that, Chasing the Edge is an intriguing and well-paced debut that sets up the series well. With an interesting premise and strong potential for future development, it’s worth following to see where Cari’s story goes next.

[SeekerOfGrace · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series has me hooked already! From the moment I read the novella Door of Deception (a freebie download from author Leslie Piggott’s website, hint hint) I was intrigued by the main character Cari Turnlyle. While Door of Deception is not a necessary prequel to this book, it adds a layer of depth to the characters and shares how Cari got her start as a sports writer turned investigative journalist. In Chasing the Edge, the action starts right away and Cari is left to solve a huge mystery as a sports star drops dead and the police don’t seem suspect any foul play. Cari is both a relatable and inspiring character. You can’t help cheering her on as she doggedly pursues clues despite getting thwarted at every turn. This was a great summer read that kept me hooked until the end. Can’t wait for the next in the series!

[Peter · Rating 5 out of 5]

First in an easy read crime detective series. Main characters are Cari Turnlyle a journalist and Police Detective Genevieve Viacorte. I liked the idea of the story, and the science behind the plot. There’s humour, and an introduction to these characters. Enjoyed the book, read in a couple of hours. Infact, I liked it so much I jumped at the chance to get books two and three as well. (I’ve read book two, as well, already and the series has me hooked.) Thank you to Leslie A. Piggott and BookSirens for the ARC. The views expressed are all mine, freely given.

[Myra McIlvain · Rating 4 out of 5]

Chasing the Edge is the first book in a new series featuring Cari Tunlyle, a young reporter assigned to cover sports at the local college. When a star athlete drops dead near the finish line, Cari is baffled by the lack of a real investigation. When the school's sports medicine doc is found murdered, Cari begins the search for answers, only to be stopped at every turn. Following Cari as she grapples with how far to push as she chases answers, keeps the reader cheering and sometimes frowning at the choices she makes. It should be interesting to follow Cari in her next adventure called The Cari Turnlyle Series.

[Belinda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic mystery

I was on the edge of my seat reading this book. I didn't figure this one out and I usually do. I highly recommend this book.

[Amys Bookshelf Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Leslie A Piggott writes a thrilling and chilling tale with Chasing the Edge

In Chasing the Edge, the reader is introduced several characters, and I recommend reading the prologue as it gives the backstory of Dr. John Delamont, and his genetic creations. I haven't read anything by this author before, and what a hidden gem. I enjoyed it so much that I have now followed the author and look for more books to read. Chasing the Edge_ is part of the Cari Turnlyle Series, and this is volume one. I can't wait to read the books that follow this one. When we are finally introduced to Cari Tunlyle, the reporter that this series was named after, we see her at work. First, she's covering her university's sports news, and this time it's a track meet. During the meet, something happens that turns several people's worlds upside down, including Cari's. The man she was supposed to interview died during the meet. Cari's instinct is that it wasn't a natural death, or a heart attack, as everyone assumed it was. She believed it was something more sinister. Cari is determined and tenacious and determined to get the job done no matter what. Leslie A Piggott not only tells the story but shows it with words as well. This story is a definite attention grabber, so much I couldn't put it down. A very unpredictable story, my favorite kind, with a well-written plot. Chasing the Edge is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews. I read this book to give my unbiased and honest review. Amy's Bookshelf Reviews recommends that anyone who reads this book also write a review.

[Teresa Collins · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was expecting so much from this story, but unfortunately, I wound up being disappointed. It has a good premise, but Ms. Piggott managed to hit upon one of my pet peeves. Whenever she had characters holding a conversation, they repeatedly used the characters' names. Now, I'm not sure about you, but when I'm talking to someone, especially someone I know well, I don't use their name every third sentence. So, I'm not sure if Ms. Piggott was attempting to increase her word count or if she assumed her readers couldn't remember a character's name from one sentence to the next. Either way, it was irritating. Someone who doesn't have this pet peeve would most likely enjoy the story, but it is a fairly good, basic police procedural. I also found the story didn't draw me in. I had no trouble putting the book down, even though I admit I didn't have any trouble picking it back up either. I guess Ms. Piggott's writing style is just not for me. I received a review copy from the author via BookSirens, and this review reflects my honest and voluntary opinion.

[Mary Ryan · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was an interesting and enjoyable story. Cari is a sports reporter who attends a track meet where a young athlete collapses and dies. It's initially written off as natural causes but Cari's intuition senses otherwise. When she hears about a secret nutrition program used by a handful of athletes and the doctor in charge of this program is murdered, then she is determined to investigate further.

I liked Cari as a character. She is a nice person and determined to get to the bottom of things but not in an all or nothing type of way. I found the story easy to read and although I had thought I had figured things out, a later twist caught me out. Overall, it's a good start to a series and I'd be interested in seeing what lies in store for Cari next.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Chasing The Edge” by Leslie A. Piggott is a page-turner that has you hooked from the very first word. The Prologue sets the stage for this very gripping & easy-to-read novel that you’ll want to finish in one sitting. Two members of Onore University’s athletic community are dead & the police are called in to investigate what happened. Cari Turnlye, a sportswriter suspects foul play & as she digs deeper into the case, a theory begins to emerge. To put her theory to the test she needs the help of her friend, Detective Genevieve Viacorte, to help her solve the case. What is Cari’s theory about the deaths & will Genevieve believe her & join forces with her to get to the bottom of things before it’s too late? Read this riveting & engrossing novel to find out.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Scott Harbaugh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Leslie A. Piggott’s Chasing the Edge is the kind of mystery that crawls under your skin and refuses to leave. From the opening race scene stark, urgent, and alarming I was hooked. Piggott builds atmosphere with small, precise details: the smell of the track after rain, the hush of a stadium at night, the flutter of adrenaline in athletes and spectators. Cari Turnlyle is a wonderfully drawn protagonist: tough-minded, empathetic, and stubborn in all the best ways. Her instincts as a reporter feel authentic, and her dogged pursuit of the truth pulls the reader along without ever feeling forced. The supporting cast is believable, and the red herrings felt purposeful rather than gimmicky. The reveal landed for me, emotionally and logically, and I closed the book satisfied but eager for the next installment. This is a superb start to a series intelligent, suspenseful, and utterly readable.

[Jennie Rosenblum · Rating 4 out of 5]

This first book in a new series has everything needed to get me hooked. The main character, Cari, is a fledgling journalist covering the local sports scene. When she happens to be at a track meet where a student collapses and dies, her investigative skills take off. Set in a university town, the reader is quickly immersed in the life of the university as well as the townspeople who are living on the outskirts.

If the mystery is not enough, Cari is dealing with an internal struggle of trying to do the right thing while also wanting that front page story. How far is she willing to go?

The author did a great job starting this series and giving me, the reader, enough closure for the story but at the same time, I enjoyed the characters so much that I wanted more.

[Lisa Whelan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. Chasing the Edge balances procedural detail with human drama in a way that felt both cinematic and intimate. The plot a college track star collapsing mid-race is original and immediately compelling, but what kept me reading were the relationships and the pacing. Cari’s voice as a sportswriter brings a fresh perspective to the investigative mystery: she notices small athletic details that an ordinary detective might miss, and those clues matter. The interactions between Cari and Detective Viacorte add warmth and believable friction, which helps ground the tension. There are genuine surprises here; the twists are set up well and pay off. I found myself turning pages late into the night. Highly recommended for readers who want a mystery with heart and intelligence.

[Vinícius Santos · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a gripping debut to a series! Leslie Piggott writes with confidence and control the narrative moves briskly, clues are cleverly placed, and the stakes feel immediate. The setting (college athletics) gives the story a crisp, visceral edge: the finish line takes on a new meaning when someone dies trying to cross it. Cari is a hero I enjoyed following: she’s curious, imperfect, and brave enough to ask the questions others avoid. The author’s descriptive writing made scenes vivid without overdoing it, and the investigation thread remained plausible throughout. I especially appreciated that the resolution didn’t rely on convenience; motivations were believable and multilayered. I’m already looking forward to the next book in the Cari Turnlyle series.

[William Whitlatch · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the very first page, Chasing the Edge completely pulled me in. Leslie A. Piggott has that rare ability to make you feel like you’re walking right beside the main character, seeing every clue, every dead end, every flicker of doubt. Cari Turnlyle is such a fascinating lead ambitious, sharp, and human in all the right ways. I loved how she balances her instincts as a reporter with the risks of following a dangerous lead. Every chapter kept me guessing, and the emotional undercurrent especially when she’s dismissed or doubted made the story that much stronger. It’s been a while since I found a mystery that felt this real and personal. Easily one of the best indie mysteries I’ve read this year!

[Ciclochick · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is quite a pacy thriller. Two murders, and trying to solve them are two parties: one, a pair of detectives, the other, a fledgling reporter (Cari) who wants a career-building scoop. It's a nail-biting race as each party investigates if a college athlete's tragic collapse on track and the brutal murder of his nutritionist are linked.

I enjoyed it, despite a few niggles: the ending was all wrapped up in a 'tell' and virtually no 'show' rush, and the dialogue was a little stiff and unnatural. Our reporter, Cari, addresses her grandmother as 'Grandmother'. No one this side of the nineteenth century calls their grandmum 'Grandmother'. Take your pick from Grandma, Nan, Nanny, Nonna, Abuela or any other moniker handed down through generations by tradition or made up by family members.

However, I do think this author is on her way to becoming a very good one, but is still a bit 'green'. That said, this is compelling and very readable, and kicks off the series very competently.

[Sharon · Rating 3 out of 5]

The story, about a group of university athletes in a special program, was sort of interesting, but I didn’t like Cari Turnlyle, the main character. Cari does some questionable things and comes up with excuses to justify her actions. She also blames others for her mistakes.

The writing could have been better. In several conversations between the police officers, Viacorte and Runimoss, it’s not clear which one is doing the talking.

There are too many conversations that are repetitive and don’t move the story forward.

I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this story. There’s a mysterious program, a chemical powder, some shady scientists and athletes and a very determined reporter trying to get the proof for the connections she’s deduced. I loved how we’re getting POVs from Cari the reporter, the detectives, the athletes, even the murder victim well before he died anyways. We’re getting all the sides as they unfold and it is awesomely done. It draws you in and keeps you wanting more. Great conclusion the culprit was one of my suspects but I honestly thought it was the other guy. Very well done! Can’t wait for more in this series!
I received an ARC via BookSirens these are my sincere thoughts on this book

[David Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Chasing the Edge is a thoroughly enjoyable and well-crafted mystery. The athletic setting gives the plot a distinctive flavor that kept me engaged throughout, and Cari is a protagonist with depth and agency. The book excels at building a mood of unease: small incidents accumulate into a convincing sense that something sinister is afoot. My only critique is pacing the middle section slows at times with repetitive investigative beats but the tension returns strongly in the final third, and the resolution is satisfying. Overall, this is a strong series starter and I’ll be following Cari’s next steps with interest.

[Peter Walker · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked this novel. Leslie Piggott creates a believable small university world where competitive pressure and hidden rivalries make for fertile mystery territory. The characterization is a highlight: Cari’s curiosity and professional instincts felt authentic, and her scenes with Detective Viacorte provided depth and nuance. A few lines of dialogue felt slightly on-the-nose, which is why I’m holding back a star, but that’s a small quibble. The plotting is solid, the twists are well-executed, and the ending was both logical and emotionally resonant. Recommended for fans of contemporary mysteries with a strong central sleuth.

[Gregory Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A smart, suspenseful mystery that kept me guessing. Piggott expertly balances the procedural elements of the investigation with the personal costs of pursuing the truth. Cari’s tenacity and moral compass make her a protagonist to cheer for, and the book’s pacing is handled masterfully tension rises, eases, then strikes again when you least expect it. Secondary characters are given enough texture that they feel lived-in, and the athletic milieu is rendered convincingly. I appreciated the book’s willingness to let scenes breathe and to allow character reaction moments to land. This is a promising series launch tightly plotted, emotionally resonant, and wonderfully entertaining.

[E.L. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chasing the Edge is a well-written, fast read with simple language that one can enjoy over a relaxing weekend.
Featuring Cari Tunlyle, an ambitious sports writer who turns into a detective in order to find all the pieces that connect to the murders of the athletic world.
With many obstacles and nobody to help her, the protagonist starts an all or nothing journey.
The character development is amazingly done especially with Cari.
I love that this is part one of a book series and I can't wait to read the rest.

[Stephen Williams · Rating 3 out of 5]

I found Chasing the Edge to be a solid, competent mystery with a novel setting. Cari is appealing as a lead persistent and perceptive but the book didn’t quite click emotionally for me in places. Some scenes lingered too long on procedural detail while others that felt ripe for exploration were skimmed. That said, the central premise is strong, and the investigation had enough twists to keep me interested. This will likely appeal more to readers who enjoy methodical, clue-forward mysteries rather than fast, twist-heavy thrillers.

[Lucy Stull · Rating 4 out of 5]

A compelling mystery with a fresh hook: the sports backdrop is more than garnish; it informs motive and method in interesting ways. Piggott balances investigative beats with character work, and Cari’s narration is engaging. There were moments when I wanted more background on certain side characters, and one subplot felt a bit underused, but the core mystery was convincing and the climax had real impact. This is a very promising launch for a series, and I’m curious to see how the author deepens character threads in future books.

[Harriet Balke · Rating 4 out of 5]

A compelling mystery with a fresh hook: the sports backdrop is more than garnish; it informs motive and method in interesting ways. Piggott balances investigative beats with character work, and Cari’s narration is engaging. There were moments when I wanted more background on certain side characters, and one subplot felt a bit underused, but the core mystery was convincing and the climax had real impact. This is a very promising launch for a series, and I’m curious to see how the author deepens character threads in future books.

[Trisha Benson · Rating 3 out of 5]

An interesting concept and an earnest performance from the author. The sports-world angle is engaging and creates a clear set of stakes, and Cari is a sympathetic protagonist worth rooting for. However, pacing issues and an occasionally uneven tone stopped this from rising above average for me. Some of the investigative reveals felt predictable, and certain character motivations could have used deeper probing. Still, the book has enough merit voice, atmosphere, and a likable lead to make me consider reading the next volume.

[Laurie Craighead · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book! Chasing the Edge had the perfect blend of suspense, mystery, and heart. Leslie Piggott knows how to write tension you can feel it in every conversation Cari has, every time she pushes past another obstacle to find the truth. It’s not just about solving a crime; it’s about believing in your instincts even when no one else does. Cari’s courage and determination made me root for her the whole way. The ending left me speechless t tied everything together while still leaving room for more in the series. I already bought book two!

[John Raff · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a surprisingly good read. I started it on a Friday night thinking I’d read a few chapters and ended up finishing it Saturday morning. Leslie Piggott creates an atmosphere of quiet dread and steady suspense that just doesn’t let go. Cari Turnlyle feels like a real person a woman who gets in over her head but refuses to back down. I loved her friendship with Genevieve too; it added heart to all the tension. It’s the kind of book that makes you second-guess everyone’s motives. Highly recommended to anyone who loves mysteries with substance and smart writing!

[Lisa Towles · Rating 5 out of 5]

Definitely a fun, fast read. I love the main character of this book, Cari Turnlyle, because she's a real person struggling through interesting conflicts. Her curiosity and sense of justice propel her forward on the investigation path of two young athletes who die under suspicious circumstances, even though pursuing the truth could be harmful to her career. The author has a great sense of story and I loved being in this world. Can't wait till the next book comes out!

[Mrs LIR Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are several genres of novels in this book.

1) a little bit the mad scientist who creates a food to enhance performance in animals

2) the American competitive athletics collegial scene

3) a small town female reporter trying to be a good journalist and make the front pages

4) a police procedural mystery.

All the strands come together to make a very instructive and entertaining read.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Kathryn Read · Rating 5 out of 5]

A relatable story of college athletes and what can happen when the desire to chase the edge goes too far and slips into the unethical.

I like the perspective of a journalist who is trying to be super-ethical and correct, as well as the twists and turns with the police department.

This feels like a "series with legs to go far" and I'm looking forward to reading more about Cari Turnlyle

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.