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Fractured: The Stealth Stalker
She escaped a serial killer and disappeared. But escape was only the beginning. Now she’s facing a killer she’ll never outrun.
Once a renowned FBI analyst, Cameron Cooper built her reputation tracking serial killers—until she became the target. Abducted and tortured by the infamous J-Bird, Cameron barely survived. She disappeared, abandoning her career and identity to escape the nightmares that haunted her.
Years later, she's rebuilt a quiet life in New York City. But when the NYPD pulls her into a chilling new case—the hunt for the “Stealth Stalker”—old terrors resurface. The killer’s methods feel disturbingly familiar, and soon, Cameron begins to suspect a horrifying link between past and present.
As the bodies pile up and the line between hunter and hunted blurs, Cameron is forced to question everything—even her own mind. Is she chasing a killer? Or being lured into a deadly game she thought she’d already escaped?
Once a renowned FBI analyst, Cameron Cooper built her reputation tracking serial killers—until she became the target. Abducted and tortured by the infamous J-Bird, Cameron barely survived. She disappeared, abandoning her career and identity to escape the nightmares that haunted her.
Years later, she's rebuilt a quiet life in New York City. But when the NYPD pulls her into a chilling new case—the hunt for the “Stealth Stalker”—old terrors resurface. The killer’s methods feel disturbingly familiar, and soon, Cameron begins to suspect a horrifying link between past and present.
As the bodies pile up and the line between hunter and hunted blurs, Cameron is forced to question everything—even her own mind. Is she chasing a killer? Or being lured into a deadly game she thought she’d already escaped?
- GenresThriller
342 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 1, 2022
112 people are currently reading
202 people want to read
About the author
C.S. Dodds
3 books23 followersC.S. Dodds writes crime and psychological thrillers driven by secrets, deception, and what people are capable of when pushed too far. Her stories explore hidden motives and the moments when control begins to slip.
A member of the International Thriller Writers and the Independent Book Publishers Association, she writes suspense-driven fiction that keeps readers questioning until the final page.
When she’s not writing, she’s reading—or out on the golf course.
For more information, visit https://csdodds.com/
Thanks for reading!
A member of the International Thriller Writers and the Independent Book Publishers Association, she writes suspense-driven fiction that keeps readers questioning until the final page.
When she’s not writing, she’s reading—or out on the golf course.
For more information, visit https://csdodds.com/
Thanks for reading!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
September 18, 2023
Former FBI analyst Cameron Cooper was kidnapped and tortured by a serial killer in the past, narrowly escaping with her life. Now she has a new name (her previous name was Cameron Chadwick, maybe should've changed that first name too!) and a new home in New York City (formerly lived and worked in Georgia somewhere). She's working with Detective Hunter Finnegan as a consultant to help capture the Stealth Stalker, a killer who seems all too familiar.
I've borrowed a number of books through Kindle Unlimited and thought I better start reading them. Isn't it a good thing you can only borrow a limit of 10 at a time! This is the oldest one so I started with it. The book is pretty well written and easy to read but I'm afraid I found it a bit too implausible and it mostly made me angry. Cameron suffers from debilitating migraines and either left work early or didn't manage to make it in to work so many times in the first few days that, as Cameron herself muses, "Detective Finnegan must wonder what he has gotten himself into by bringing me into this case". Me too Cameron, me too. Also she was extremely rude to a witness and to a co-worker, like someone flipped her switch, and Detective Finnegan didn't bat an eye. I suspected where the story was going after that happened and it happens to be one of my least favourite plot devices so I didn't enjoy the book as much as some others. It sounds like this is probably the start of a series but I think I'll be avoiding it. Many other reviewers really liked it so take my opinion with a grain of salt.
TW: Domestic abuse (but not the MC), mental illness
I've borrowed a number of books through Kindle Unlimited and thought I better start reading them. Isn't it a good thing you can only borrow a limit of 10 at a time! This is the oldest one so I started with it. The book is pretty well written and easy to read but I'm afraid I found it a bit too implausible and it mostly made me angry. Cameron suffers from debilitating migraines and either left work early or didn't manage to make it in to work so many times in the first few days that, as Cameron herself muses, "Detective Finnegan must wonder what he has gotten himself into by bringing me into this case". Me too Cameron, me too. Also she was extremely rude to a witness and to a co-worker, like someone flipped her switch, and Detective Finnegan didn't bat an eye. I suspected where the story was going after that happened and it happens to be one of my least favourite plot devices so I didn't enjoy the book as much as some others. It sounds like this is probably the start of a series but I think I'll be avoiding it. Many other reviewers really liked it so take my opinion with a grain of salt.
TW: Domestic abuse (but not the MC), mental illness
April 20, 2023
Well, if I thought I had read bad procedural thrillers before, this one takes the cake. I do not understand the amount of 5-star reviews on this, must be friends of the author or polite ARC readers. Well, I'm here to say SAVE YOURSELVES [AND YOUR SPARE TIME] and skip this one.
In a nutshell, a forensic psychologist slash criminal profiler is called in on a serial killer case. Grace suffers from migraines, time loss, trauma from a case gone awry a decade ago, and complications from a tragic childhood. She soon begins a romance with the detective who leads the investigative team, and quickly makes bad impressions on every other woman in the story, who are all coworkers.
In short, she's a nightmarish, unprofessional caricature of a law enforcement officer covered in so many red flags they can probably see her from space. Her profiling is also trash; she's completely wrong every time she tries to pin down an aspect of the perp, lmao.
The "twist" is so predictable and underwhelming that my eyes might have rolled out of their sockets. The dialogue is AWFUL. Unealistic. This is simply not how people speak, much less in a book like this. I think procedurals take a lot of research to read plausibly, and this writer just took a look at that idea and said nah I'm gonna wing it.
I read this to laugh alongside a friend who'd read it before me, and I totally understand the compulsion. You really need a comrade to laugh through this ridiculousness with.
In a nutshell, a forensic psychologist slash criminal profiler is called in on a serial killer case. Grace suffers from migraines, time loss, trauma from a case gone awry a decade ago, and complications from a tragic childhood. She soon begins a romance with the detective who leads the investigative team, and quickly makes bad impressions on every other woman in the story, who are all coworkers.
In short, she's a nightmarish, unprofessional caricature of a law enforcement officer covered in so many red flags they can probably see her from space. Her profiling is also trash; she's completely wrong every time she tries to pin down an aspect of the perp, lmao.
The "twist" is so predictable and underwhelming that my eyes might have rolled out of their sockets. The dialogue is AWFUL. Unealistic. This is simply not how people speak, much less in a book like this. I think procedurals take a lot of research to read plausibly, and this writer just took a look at that idea and said nah I'm gonna wing it.
I read this to laugh alongside a friend who'd read it before me, and I totally understand the compulsion. You really need a comrade to laugh through this ridiculousness with.
September 1, 2022
Former FBI analyst Cameron Cooper walked away from her career after being kidnapped by serial killer, J-Bird. Although she & the other victim imprisoned with her got away, J-Bird vowed he would find them both & kill them. Years later, Cameron is living in New York, she changed her name & has been keeping a low profile ever since. She feels drawn to help on the investigation into a killer called the Stealth Stalker, who has been killing female police officers. The officers are all the same physical type but there seems to be little else that connects them. Cameron becomes close to Detective Hunter Finnegan, the lead on the case, & the two tentatively start a romantic relationship. This is derailed though when Cameron's profile of the Stealth Stalker leads her to believe that Finnegan is the killer.
First of all, this is a very readable book. It keeps the attention & the pace never lets up. It definitely shows great promise for future books. I didn't find the characters very believable though. There were definite red flags several times in Cameron's behaviour, which were ignored or swept under the carpet by other characters. For example, she was extremely rude to a murder victim's husband in one interview & it was barely mentioned by Finnegan, never mind acted on. As for other reviewers saying you won't see the twist coming, if you are paying attention then you will, I found it quite obvious what was going to happen. Or maybe I've just watched far too many episodes of Criminal Minds! I rate this a solid 3 stars - shows promise but there are some areas to work on.
My thanks to NetGalley & publishers, BooksGoSocial, for the opportunity to read an ARC.
First of all, this is a very readable book. It keeps the attention & the pace never lets up. It definitely shows great promise for future books. I didn't find the characters very believable though. There were definite red flags several times in Cameron's behaviour, which were ignored or swept under the carpet by other characters. For example, she was extremely rude to a murder victim's husband in one interview & it was barely mentioned by Finnegan, never mind acted on. As for other reviewers saying you won't see the twist coming, if you are paying attention then you will, I found it quite obvious what was going to happen. Or maybe I've just watched far too many episodes of Criminal Minds! I rate this a solid 3 stars - shows promise but there are some areas to work on.
My thanks to NetGalley & publishers, BooksGoSocial, for the opportunity to read an ARC.
August 16, 2022
Dr. Cameron Cooper, a former FBI analyst, has been recommended for work at a police precinct in New York City, where she relocated after being kidnapped and brutalized by a serial killer known by the name “JBird.” After the attack, she left the FBI, and disappeared. Detective Hunter Finnegan and his team welcome Dr. Cooper and her expertise to their investigation of a serial killer they call “The Stealth Stalker” on the loose and murdering women in the city. She is still running and hiding from JBird, whose attack left her barely alive. Cameron is attacked and ends up post-surgery, weak, exhausted, and confused. She accuses Hunter of being the killer because she believes he fits the stalker’s profile. Once again she will face a serial killer, but this time she will have no possibility of escape.
What an outstanding novel! I hungrily devoured it from page one to conclusion, and it was stunningly written with eloquent prose, a compelling storyline, and powerful characters with well-drawn characteristics including the after-effects of severe trauma. It was an incredible, unputdownable book, and I never use that term lightly. This was my first read by author C. S. Dodds, but it will most certainly motivate me to seek out her other works and devour them as well. I highly recommend this work, with trigger warnings for abuse and severe mental illness.
I’d like to thank BookSirens, C.S. Dodds, and Cedar Hill Book Group for the ability to read and review this ARC.
What an outstanding novel! I hungrily devoured it from page one to conclusion, and it was stunningly written with eloquent prose, a compelling storyline, and powerful characters with well-drawn characteristics including the after-effects of severe trauma. It was an incredible, unputdownable book, and I never use that term lightly. This was my first read by author C. S. Dodds, but it will most certainly motivate me to seek out her other works and devour them as well. I highly recommend this work, with trigger warnings for abuse and severe mental illness.
I’d like to thank BookSirens, C.S. Dodds, and Cedar Hill Book Group for the ability to read and review this ARC.
August 16, 2022
She escaped a serial killer and disappeared.
Now she’s facing a killer she’ll never outrun.
Former FBI analyst Cameron Cooper hated chasing serial killers. As an agent, the J-Bird kidnapped and tortured her before she narrowly escaped with her life. She walked away from the FBI and disappeared. Years later, she has a new name and a new home living obscurely in New York City, where she never expected to be hunting one killer while hiding from another.
Working with Detective Hunter Finnegan to capture the Stealth Stalker, Cameron’s traumatic past haunts her as she pursues a killer who seems all too familiar. She compares her notes on two serial killers, one from her past and one from her present, and realizes Hunter fits the same profile.
When Cameron is attacked and nearly dies, she accuses Hunter of being a killer. Fighting for her life in the hospital, weak and confused, she’s an easy target for whoever is after her.
Once again, she’ll come face to face with a serial killer, only this time, she’ll have no way to escape!
Wow totally gripping really enjoyed this book totally recommend
Thank You NetGalley and BooksGoSocial
I just reviewed Fractured: The Stealth Stalker by C.S. Dodds. #Fractured #NetGalley
Former FBI analyst Cameron Cooper hated chasing serial killers. As an agent, the J-Bird kidnapped and tortured her before she narrowly escaped with her life. She walked away from the FBI and disappeared. Years later, she has a new name and a new home living obscurely in New York City, where she never expected to be hunting one killer while hiding from another.
Working with Detective Hunter Finnegan to capture the Stealth Stalker, Cameron’s traumatic past haunts her as she pursues a killer who seems all too familiar. She compares her notes on two serial killers, one from her past and one from her present, and realizes Hunter fits the same profile.
When Cameron is attacked and nearly dies, she accuses Hunter of being a killer. Fighting for her life in the hospital, weak and confused, she’s an easy target for whoever is after her.
Once again, she’ll come face to face with a serial killer, only this time, she’ll have no way to escape!
Wow totally gripping really enjoyed this book totally recommend
Thank You NetGalley and BooksGoSocial
I just reviewed Fractured: The Stealth Stalker by C.S. Dodds. #Fractured #NetGalley
August 16, 2022
First, I would give this more than 5 stars if allowed. OMG!!!! I was dumbstruck when the author let out a major twist in the story. My mouth is still open with disbelieve!!! Excellent story!!!! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 11, 2022
This is my first book by C.S. Dodds and I really enjoyed it!!! Cameron hunts serial killers, but soon realizes she is being stalked by a serial killer!!! This book will keep you turning the pages to find out what happens next!!! Read and enjoy!!!
June 1, 2023
Fractured was an interesting read up until the first 5 chapters. I've read dozens of police procedurals with unusual leads but none as unprofessional & whacky as Cameron Cooper and none as unmerited as Hunter Finnegan. For all his experience he seems to behave quite obtuse or slow on the uptake. The penny drops very late, each and every time. It's quite apparent what's going on & how it ends way before the book ends that took out all the suspense. It's not the characters, but the plot as mentioned is very predictable. The end sets the tone for a sequel I'm very skeptical of reading.
Thank you NetGalley, Booksgosocial & C. S. Dodds for an arc!
Thank you NetGalley, Booksgosocial & C. S. Dodds for an arc!
August 30, 2022
What starts out as a book about a former FBI profiler on the hunt for a serial killer, quickly evolves into how trauma impacts the mind. While everyone is trying to figure out who the serial killer is, they cannot imagine whom it is. When they find out, they are stunned. This author did an awesome job of writing about DID. Read this book to get a good insight on how our brain helps us to survive.
August 22, 2022
I can't believe this is CS Dodd's first book!!! I already can't wait until the second installment of the Cameron Cooper series.
"Former FBI analyst Cameron Cooper hated chasing serial killers. As an agent, the J-Bird kidnapped and tortured her before she narrowly escaped with her life. She walked away from the FBI and disappeared. Years later, she has a new name and a new home living obscurely in New York City, where she never expected to be hunting one killer while hiding from another."
I absolutely loved this book - the plot is so unique and I struggled to put this one down. Totally gripping with a twist you definitely won't see coming. I loved the well written characters, the obvious themes of mental health, and continuous suspense. I had to find out who the killer was and why. Pick this one up, you won't be disappointed.
I’d like to thank BookSirens, C.S. Dodds, and Cedar Hill Book Group for the ability to read and review this ARC.
"Former FBI analyst Cameron Cooper hated chasing serial killers. As an agent, the J-Bird kidnapped and tortured her before she narrowly escaped with her life. She walked away from the FBI and disappeared. Years later, she has a new name and a new home living obscurely in New York City, where she never expected to be hunting one killer while hiding from another."
I absolutely loved this book - the plot is so unique and I struggled to put this one down. Totally gripping with a twist you definitely won't see coming. I loved the well written characters, the obvious themes of mental health, and continuous suspense. I had to find out who the killer was and why. Pick this one up, you won't be disappointed.
I’d like to thank BookSirens, C.S. Dodds, and Cedar Hill Book Group for the ability to read and review this ARC.
September 1, 2022
Thank you to BookSirens for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily. This book is hot from the beginning as the beginning chapter is a scene where FBI Analyst Cameron Cooper is trying to escape from a brutal serial killer. You will hit the ground running, literally from the first pages of the book. Cameron escapes from the serial killer known as J-Bird, but not before he tortured her and left her with debilitating night terrors and scars, both mental and physical. She left the FBI and changed her name to hide from this vicious killer. Now she is working with the NYPD to hunt down a serial killer known as Stealth. She is working with Detective Hunter Finnegan and his crew. I am exhausted after reading this book! I feel as if I have been in a battle with evil incarnate! Wow! Just wow! I have lived in this book for two days to the point where I felt I needed to watch cartoons to cleanse my mind from the evil within this book. (Don't get me wrong... it was a great book, it was just evil!) It was wickedly gripping and terrifying at the same time. It is a police procedural, but it definitely has a psychological thriller vibe mixed in as well as the author takes you into the mind of a depraved killer. This book was like peeling an onion as you pulled back layer after layer until the shocking conclusion. The plotline in this book took someone with a vivid imagination, so obviously C.S. Dodds has a true talent as a writer. You can forget sleep once you start this book for two reasons: (1) you will not want to put it down; and (2) you will be disturbed... yet intrigued! I expect great things from C.S. Dodds in the future!
August 15, 2022
Layer upon layer of mysteries fill the pages of this story--which I read in 2 sittings. I just had to find out who did it and why. This is a really well written "police procedural" undergirded by a possible love story surrounded by many likable characters who are friends and colleagues. And most of them are hiding secrets. The author did a good job of keeping this reader in suspense--and I didn't see it coming. The ending, while not the happy solution to everyone's problems, is a hopeful one. Great debut novel!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 1, 2022
AWESOME psychological thriller with a very different story line which keeps up the suspense right up to the shocking finale. RECOMMEND totally & look forward to more thrillers from this author. Thanks to #Cedar Hill Book Group & #NetGalley for #Fractured in return for my honest review.
August 31, 2022
I really did struggle in the beginning and didn't like the main character but I decided to continue and then I got hooked. The twist was interesting and potentially guessed it based on the cover page. All in all I was surprised this was a debut well worth a read .
I was given an advance copy by book sirens and the publishers but the review is entirely my own.
I was given an advance copy by book sirens and the publishers but the review is entirely my own.
September 5, 2022
Thank you NetGalley and publisher for an early copy of this book! Below is my honest review.
DNF-ed at 60%
Summary of plot:
Twelve years ago, former FBI analyst Cameron Cooper was kidnapped and tortured by a serial killer named J-Bird. She ended up escaping and got a new identity to remain hidden since J-Bird was never captured. She proceeds to work for a New York police station as a consultant and helps out these officers with another serial killer named the Stealth Stalker--who seems to be targeting female, brunette police officers. At some point, she starts to suspect Detective Hunter Finnegan is the Stealth Stalker.
Thoughts on the book:
Overall, I only have one major issue with the plot, which led to me DNF-ing it. I really didn't like Cameron as a main character. A lot of her actions didn't make sense, and frankly, she was not fit enough to act as a consultant for a serial killer case. However, I did enjoy that we got multiple perspectives (the serial killer, the victims, etc.)
To go into more details on my critique: For example, Detective Finnegan asked her if she's definitely okay with working on this type of case, and she gets annoyed that she's even asked that question. I think it's perfectly valid that Finnegan asked this since she faced severe trauma in the past from a serial killer.
Additionally, to my point about Cameron being unfit for the job--she frequently shows symptoms of PTSD: forgetting where she was (like blacking out), having serious migraines that prevent her from working after looking at crime scene photos, and acting hostile towards people all of a sudden (and having no recollection of the conversation). It frustrates me more that Detective Finnegan and other officers witnessed this AND they don't intervene to take her off the case.
Also, why does Cameron go on camera for a news outlet, KNOWING FULL WELL THAT SHE NEEDS TO BE IN HIDING FROM J-BIRD? Doesn't make sense. (That's literally how the serial killer finds her.)
Then she starts to focus all her energy into finding evidence that Detective Finnegan is the serial killer. This is not a spoiler by the way because it's literally in the book description. I don't know why, but this annoyed me a lot. She basically gets tunnel vision even though she's all like "stay unbiased and find evidence to back up your claims!" To me, Finnegan being the serial killer doesn't even make sense. Why would he toy with her for an extended period of time instead of killing her immediately like he did with his other victims? If he was trying to find Cameron because she escaped his hands twelve years ago, why would he kill his own police force if he knew that she was standing right there? Some things just don't add up.
And hey, maybe Finnegan is the actual serial killer. I wouldn't know since I didn't finish the book. But end thoughts: I didn't like Cameron as a protagonist.
Would I recommend this book? N/A because I didn't finish it.
DNF-ed at 60%
Summary of plot:
Twelve years ago, former FBI analyst Cameron Cooper was kidnapped and tortured by a serial killer named J-Bird. She ended up escaping and got a new identity to remain hidden since J-Bird was never captured. She proceeds to work for a New York police station as a consultant and helps out these officers with another serial killer named the Stealth Stalker--who seems to be targeting female, brunette police officers. At some point, she starts to suspect Detective Hunter Finnegan is the Stealth Stalker.
Thoughts on the book:
Overall, I only have one major issue with the plot, which led to me DNF-ing it. I really didn't like Cameron as a main character. A lot of her actions didn't make sense, and frankly, she was not fit enough to act as a consultant for a serial killer case. However, I did enjoy that we got multiple perspectives (the serial killer, the victims, etc.)
To go into more details on my critique: For example, Detective Finnegan asked her if she's definitely okay with working on this type of case, and she gets annoyed that she's even asked that question. I think it's perfectly valid that Finnegan asked this since she faced severe trauma in the past from a serial killer.
Additionally, to my point about Cameron being unfit for the job--she frequently shows symptoms of PTSD: forgetting where she was (like blacking out), having serious migraines that prevent her from working after looking at crime scene photos, and acting hostile towards people all of a sudden (and having no recollection of the conversation). It frustrates me more that Detective Finnegan and other officers witnessed this AND they don't intervene to take her off the case.
Also, why does Cameron go on camera for a news outlet, KNOWING FULL WELL THAT SHE NEEDS TO BE IN HIDING FROM J-BIRD? Doesn't make sense. (That's literally how the serial killer finds her.)
Then she starts to focus all her energy into finding evidence that Detective Finnegan is the serial killer. This is not a spoiler by the way because it's literally in the book description. I don't know why, but this annoyed me a lot. She basically gets tunnel vision even though she's all like "stay unbiased and find evidence to back up your claims!" To me, Finnegan being the serial killer doesn't even make sense. Why would he toy with her for an extended period of time instead of killing her immediately like he did with his other victims? If he was trying to find Cameron because she escaped his hands twelve years ago, why would he kill his own police force if he knew that she was standing right there? Some things just don't add up.
And hey, maybe Finnegan is the actual serial killer. I wouldn't know since I didn't finish the book. But end thoughts: I didn't like Cameron as a protagonist.
Would I recommend this book? N/A because I didn't finish it.
October 24, 2022
Fractured, aren't we all?
First off, love the cover!
Going into Fractured, I thought it would be your typical detective story with a former FBI analyst, to help track down a killer. Read that, done that, right? No, wrong! This novel takes it to another level.
Dr, Cameron Cooper, is Fractured, after having nearly escaped a serial killer named The Stealth Stalker, who had tortured her and another victim. Leaving it all behind, her past, career, even changing her name. Cameron decides to come back and work with Detective Hunter Finnegan, and his team to finally put a stop to this killer.
Murder after murder, the bodies are piling up, with no arrest in sight. The killer is always one step forward, while Dr. Cameron and Detective Hunter are always two steps back.
Is it possible, their serial killer, The Stealth Stalker is a cop? How else can he/she stay one step ahead? Is this killer, right under their noses?
A gripping novel that turns on it's head, with twists and turns I didn't see coming.
A great debut novel, looking forward to book 2.
Thank you Netgalley for making this read possible!
First off, love the cover!
Going into Fractured, I thought it would be your typical detective story with a former FBI analyst, to help track down a killer. Read that, done that, right? No, wrong! This novel takes it to another level.
Dr, Cameron Cooper, is Fractured, after having nearly escaped a serial killer named The Stealth Stalker, who had tortured her and another victim. Leaving it all behind, her past, career, even changing her name. Cameron decides to come back and work with Detective Hunter Finnegan, and his team to finally put a stop to this killer.
Murder after murder, the bodies are piling up, with no arrest in sight. The killer is always one step forward, while Dr. Cameron and Detective Hunter are always two steps back.
Is it possible, their serial killer, The Stealth Stalker is a cop? How else can he/she stay one step ahead? Is this killer, right under their noses?
A gripping novel that turns on it's head, with twists and turns I didn't see coming.
A great debut novel, looking forward to book 2.
Thank you Netgalley for making this read possible!
March 6, 2025
I was assigned this author for #march2025adoptanauthor. I'd never read any of Dodds' work, but I was so thankful to have this assignment. I had already bought both of her books months ago, but like many on my TBR, it was waiting on me.
Right from the start, Fractured: The Stealth Stalker grabs you by the throat and doesn’t let go. The prologue throws readers into a pulse-pounding scene where an FBI special agent is kidnapped and tortured—an opening that sets the tone for the tension and suspense ahead. Years later, after stepping away from the field, she’s pulled back in to help track down the elusive Stealth Stalker, a case that demands both her expertise and resilience.
Dodds crafts a compelling mystery with a strong protagonist and an engaging investigative thread. The pacing keeps you invested, and the psychological aspects of the stalking element add an extra layer of unease. There are twists to keep readers on their toes, and left me dying to know who the killer is.
It was an enjoyable read that delivered solid suspense and an intriguing premise. Fans of FBI thrillers and cat-and-mouse chases will find plenty to appreciate here!
Right from the start, Fractured: The Stealth Stalker grabs you by the throat and doesn’t let go. The prologue throws readers into a pulse-pounding scene where an FBI special agent is kidnapped and tortured—an opening that sets the tone for the tension and suspense ahead. Years later, after stepping away from the field, she’s pulled back in to help track down the elusive Stealth Stalker, a case that demands both her expertise and resilience.
Dodds crafts a compelling mystery with a strong protagonist and an engaging investigative thread. The pacing keeps you invested, and the psychological aspects of the stalking element add an extra layer of unease. There are twists to keep readers on their toes, and left me dying to know who the killer is.
It was an enjoyable read that delivered solid suspense and an intriguing premise. Fans of FBI thrillers and cat-and-mouse chases will find plenty to appreciate here!
September 4, 2022
I really enjoyed this book..
Cameron Cooper is an FBI analyst who escaped a serial killer and now is chasing them..
After disappearing, she changed her name and moved home, living under the radar in New York City, all the while chasing another serial killer.
I loved the pace of the story, it was perfect and definitely keeps you reading.
Cameron Cooper was such an easy character to connect with.
I found it to be slow at the beginning, but the pace definitely picks up ending in twists and turns.
i look forward to reading more by thus author.
I recommend this book
Cameron Cooper is an FBI analyst who escaped a serial killer and now is chasing them..
After disappearing, she changed her name and moved home, living under the radar in New York City, all the while chasing another serial killer.
I loved the pace of the story, it was perfect and definitely keeps you reading.
Cameron Cooper was such an easy character to connect with.
I found it to be slow at the beginning, but the pace definitely picks up ending in twists and turns.
i look forward to reading more by thus author.
I recommend this book
July 5, 2025
Kept me intrigued clear to the end
Such a captivating thriller that follows a young woman with a torrid past. This past catches up to her in an unexpected way. Excellent development of the characters and the storyline was non-stop. Thoroughly enjoyed the story and look forward to book 2!
Such a captivating thriller that follows a young woman with a torrid past. This past catches up to her in an unexpected way. Excellent development of the characters and the storyline was non-stop. Thoroughly enjoyed the story and look forward to book 2!
September 4, 2022
I really enjoyed this book..
Cameron Cooper is an FBI analyst who escaped a serial killer and now is chasing them..
After disappearing, she changed her name and moved home, living under the radar in New York City, all the while chasing another serial killer.
I loved the pace of the story, it was perfect and definitely keeps you reading.
Cameron Cooper was such an easy character to connect with.
I found it to be slow at the beginning, but the pace definitely picks up ending in twists and turns.
i look forward to reading more by thus author.
I recommend this book
Cameron Cooper is an FBI analyst who escaped a serial killer and now is chasing them..
After disappearing, she changed her name and moved home, living under the radar in New York City, all the while chasing another serial killer.
I loved the pace of the story, it was perfect and definitely keeps you reading.
Cameron Cooper was such an easy character to connect with.
I found it to be slow at the beginning, but the pace definitely picks up ending in twists and turns.
i look forward to reading more by thus author.
I recommend this book
September 8, 2022
I got this from book sirens and am providing an honest review - They asked to not have spoilers but it is hard to write an honest review without some spoilers ....
I was very interested in this book because hello FBI and serial killer, you had me there but then it also appeared to offer a strong female lead so I was all in. The description is not giving the whole picture and part of it will be spoiled just in the reference I make but there is no way to review this without discussing this part because it is the main part....
The concept is definitely interesting but not totally unique - to me it is similar to SPLIT but a female version and more of a romance focus than just action, murder, and mystery.
I don't know if it is realistic or practical honestly because they indicated that this situation stemmed from and started at childhood during her trauma around the age of 6- long before she was noted to work with the FBI and be imprisoned and tortured by a serial killer. I am not sure how she would have been cleared to work at the FBI/with the FBI also not sure how she made it through graduate school without anyone noticing especially in the field or relm of psychology. I also really struggle with this as a defense or "justification" for crime - especially where there is no impairment elsewhere in their lives - they have graduated from INTENSIVE schooling programs held high ranking jobs etc.... per mental floss there are only five serial murder/rapists that have claimed to have DID and it was with greatly mixed reviews about the practicality of this - for me you would think others would notice changes and patterns that show impairment and they would likely already be in care or treatment of some kind - I just really struggle with this... maybe I am wrong - would love to hear from others...
I think if you did not have training in psychology this would be a greater suspense and thriller but for those with education backgrounds in psychology I feel like this is predictable but still had entertainment value. I would be interested to see how other psychologist feel / review this vs how non trained persons feel/review this story. Even though I was pretty sure I knew what was going to happen and where it was going the story did hold my interests but once it was confirmed the rest seemed to drag on for me (like the last 25 percent). It is a rather easy read, simplistic and easy to understand, does hold your attention and is pretty action packed in the first 75 percent the last 25 I would say is more focused on love story and redemption
Overall this is def worth the read, would be great for a book club as it is definitely a conversation starter!
I was very interested in this book because hello FBI and serial killer, you had me there but then it also appeared to offer a strong female lead so I was all in. The description is not giving the whole picture and part of it will be spoiled just in the reference I make but there is no way to review this without discussing this part because it is the main part....
The concept is definitely interesting but not totally unique - to me it is similar to SPLIT but a female version and more of a romance focus than just action, murder, and mystery.
I don't know if it is realistic or practical honestly because they indicated that this situation stemmed from and started at childhood during her trauma around the age of 6- long before she was noted to work with the FBI and be imprisoned and tortured by a serial killer. I am not sure how she would have been cleared to work at the FBI/with the FBI also not sure how she made it through graduate school without anyone noticing especially in the field or relm of psychology. I also really struggle with this as a defense or "justification" for crime - especially where there is no impairment elsewhere in their lives - they have graduated from INTENSIVE schooling programs held high ranking jobs etc.... per mental floss there are only five serial murder/rapists that have claimed to have DID and it was with greatly mixed reviews about the practicality of this - for me you would think others would notice changes and patterns that show impairment and they would likely already be in care or treatment of some kind - I just really struggle with this... maybe I am wrong - would love to hear from others...
I think if you did not have training in psychology this would be a greater suspense and thriller but for those with education backgrounds in psychology I feel like this is predictable but still had entertainment value. I would be interested to see how other psychologist feel / review this vs how non trained persons feel/review this story. Even though I was pretty sure I knew what was going to happen and where it was going the story did hold my interests but once it was confirmed the rest seemed to drag on for me (like the last 25 percent). It is a rather easy read, simplistic and easy to understand, does hold your attention and is pretty action packed in the first 75 percent the last 25 I would say is more focused on love story and redemption
Overall this is def worth the read, would be great for a book club as it is definitely a conversation starter!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 21, 2023
Book review for Fractured – The stealth stalker by C.S Dodds
Synopsis/blurb
She escaped a serial killer and disappeared.
Now she’s facing a killer she’ll never outrun.
Former FBI analyst Cameron Cooper is living covertly in a new city with a new name after narrowly escaping a serial killer. Working as a consultant with the New York Police Department, she solves cases using the experience and skills from her days with the FBI. She’s living a quiet life until a new case conjures up the memory of an old enemy who is more monster than man.
The Stealth Stalker has killed three times when Cameron is recruited by Detective Hunter Finnegan and his team tasked with hunting a cold-blooded murderer. She pores over the evidence to get inside the head of a psychopath as the memories of a serial killer who got away haunt her. When she compares notes on the two killers, one from her past and one from her present, she realizes they could be the same person.
As Cameron’s profile of Stealth develops, she suspects she can’t trust even those closest to her. Including the person Cam’s come to trust the most. When Cameron is attacked and nearly killed, the tables are turned, and the hunter becomes the hunted.
Once again, Cameron Cooper will come face to face with a serial killer, only this time, she’ll have no way to escape!
Thoughts
I was pleasantly surprised. It took me a few chapters to really get into the story but after that I had a hard time putting the book down. The ending was very good and a major cliff hanger – in the good way. A lot of suspense and anticipation in this book for sure with twists and turns! If you like a good mystery/crime book, you must give this a go. Even though there are descriptions of murder, attacks, and abuse in this book, it’s not written in a stomach-turning way, so if you’re into crime, mystery and thriller books but don’t like extremely explicit descriptions of murder, torture etc., this would still be a book for you. Overall, a really good book. I for sure am going to read the next in the series soon!
4/5 stars
*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
Synopsis/blurb
She escaped a serial killer and disappeared.
Now she’s facing a killer she’ll never outrun.
Former FBI analyst Cameron Cooper is living covertly in a new city with a new name after narrowly escaping a serial killer. Working as a consultant with the New York Police Department, she solves cases using the experience and skills from her days with the FBI. She’s living a quiet life until a new case conjures up the memory of an old enemy who is more monster than man.
The Stealth Stalker has killed three times when Cameron is recruited by Detective Hunter Finnegan and his team tasked with hunting a cold-blooded murderer. She pores over the evidence to get inside the head of a psychopath as the memories of a serial killer who got away haunt her. When she compares notes on the two killers, one from her past and one from her present, she realizes they could be the same person.
As Cameron’s profile of Stealth develops, she suspects she can’t trust even those closest to her. Including the person Cam’s come to trust the most. When Cameron is attacked and nearly killed, the tables are turned, and the hunter becomes the hunted.
Once again, Cameron Cooper will come face to face with a serial killer, only this time, she’ll have no way to escape!
Thoughts
I was pleasantly surprised. It took me a few chapters to really get into the story but after that I had a hard time putting the book down. The ending was very good and a major cliff hanger – in the good way. A lot of suspense and anticipation in this book for sure with twists and turns! If you like a good mystery/crime book, you must give this a go. Even though there are descriptions of murder, attacks, and abuse in this book, it’s not written in a stomach-turning way, so if you’re into crime, mystery and thriller books but don’t like extremely explicit descriptions of murder, torture etc., this would still be a book for you. Overall, a really good book. I for sure am going to read the next in the series soon!
4/5 stars
*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
January 14, 2023
Fractured is about a former FBI analyst, Cameron, who worked with serial killers. She barely escaped her last investigation and has relocated to a new city where she is asked to serve as a consultant for the NYPD. Cameron and the police quickly realize it is a serial killer which coincides with Cameron’s prior experience with profiling. For a debut novel, C.S. Dodds did a wonderful job of describing each scene to make the reader feel that they were there. You could see and feel the emotions and the characters were well thought out and developed. The book was filled with twists and turns. It was written from a few different perspectives and it helped bring depth to the story! Each time I thought I had something figured out and each time I was pleasantly surprised to find out I was wrong. I didn’t want to put this book down. I can’t wait for the second book to come out!! Honestly C.S. Dodds is now a thriller author I will be following, alongside Harlan Coben and James Patterson.
February 5, 2023
Author C.S. Dodds introduces us to Dr. Cameron Cooper, a former FBI Analyst who is now a consultant to the New York City Police Department working on catching a possible serial killer. While her past makes her an expert in this field, it also contains issues which have not been resolved!
I found this to be an extremely thought out and well written novel. The author very thoroughly introduces the characters, which allows us to feel that we know them! But do we really? She leads us in a few different directions before taking us to the conclusion. It also leaves us with the hope that there is more to come!
I found this to be an extremely thought out and well written novel. The author very thoroughly introduces the characters, which allows us to feel that we know them! But do we really? She leads us in a few different directions before taking us to the conclusion. It also leaves us with the hope that there is more to come!
April 23, 2023
Fractured was a thriller to read! I was on the edge of my seat as the NYPD hunted for the serial killer “Stealth Stalker”. Every time FBI agent Cameron Cooper, put her life on the line to find Stealth I feared for her, hoping she would not become his next victim with every page I turned. The ending will leave you with chills, re-thinking the entire book and wanting to know more about this complex and twisted individual who you realize you actually don’t know at all. This book is a must read! C.S. Dodds' debut novel is expertly written and I am anxiously awaiting the release of her next book.
September 19, 2022
I loved this book once I got into it. It was a slow start for me, but I stuck with it. Cameron Cooper a former FBI analyst is captured and tortured by a serial killer. She escapes him along with another girl. She then makes it her mission to find the serial killer. I enjoyed this book immensely. Thank you to book sirens for allowing me to read this book arc for free. I leave this review voluntarily and of my own free will.
January 3, 2023
Dr. Cameron Cooper was a FBI agent who was kidnapped and tortured by a serial killer named Bird. Afterwards she left the FBI and disappeared. She is recommended for work at a New York police precinct to work with Detective Finnegan and his team to catch another serial killer named "The Stealth Stalker". This book was great and had a major plot twist you won't see coming at all. It definitely took me by surprise. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advanced copy.
January 18, 2023
OMG! I just finished this book and it was such a page turner! I started yesterday morning, spent hours in the middle of the night trying to figure out ‘whodunnit’ and couldn’t wait to get back to it this morning! I was (almost) glad to be home with Covid so I could finish
this book! The build up was so suspenseful but smooth and then Dodds hits us with one twist after another after another until the very end, which was shocking! Wow! I am so looking forward to her next book! Well done, Dodds!
this book! The build up was so suspenseful but smooth and then Dodds hits us with one twist after another after another until the very end, which was shocking! Wow! I am so looking forward to her next book! Well done, Dodds!
March 6, 2023
☆☆☆☆☆
Absolute mind blowing psychological crime thriller. The book is very well written. I was hooked from the beginning, read the entire book in just a few hours. There are some very good twists in the story. This book reminded me of watching an episode of criminal minds ( i say that with the utmost greatest respect ...i love that show) I need more of Cameron and Hunter....please.
Absolute mind blowing psychological crime thriller. The book is very well written. I was hooked from the beginning, read the entire book in just a few hours. There are some very good twists in the story. This book reminded me of watching an episode of criminal minds ( i say that with the utmost greatest respect ...i love that show) I need more of Cameron and Hunter....please.
January 21, 2023
This is one riveting, thrilling, suspenseful, page turning read with unexpected twists and turns that make it difficult to put the book down. I'm anxiously awaiting the release of the Chelsea Choker and hopefully many more publications after reading an amazingly awesome debut novel. MHB, DMD
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