The Breaking Wheel

by Christine Winston

The music plays, the dance begins, when the wheel turns, nobody wins.

During the midnight hours…
FAYE… and Savannah break the silence of the night, talking true crime on-air with their loyal Green Bay listeners. With sexy producer Scott at the helm, their late-night talk show is a hit. As their popularity increases, so too does the heat between two colleagues. Meanwhile, listening in the airwaves of Wisconsin a more sinister desire is growing for Faye.

DETECTIVE JOHN WALTERS… must break his “work alone” rule. When a missing woman ends up dead, Detective Walters’ instincts tell him this is not the killers first time around. The injuries are precise and unique. As the investigation intensifies and intuitions realised. Steadfast, John matches the killer’s obsession beat for beat with pure passion. Seeking the assistance of the FBI’s Behavioral Analysis Unit, he is momentarily swayed by the beautifully challenging Agent Della Perez.

A KILLER’S… rules are meant to be broken.

432 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 12, 2022

About the author

Christine Winston is an author of gripping thrillers. She loves nothing more than weaving suspense, mystery, unexpected twists and even some romance into her novels. Her most recent series, Killer Signatures, has seen a makeover in 2023. Originally titled “The Breaking Wheel” she is re-releasing it under a new title "The Girls That Break" on January 25th 2024. Quickly followed by the much anticipated book 2 of the series "The Girls Who Got Away" on February 1st 2024. Christine is from Dublin, Ireland and when she's not writing she is a busy mother trying to find time for yoga and friends. She loves to hear from her readers, so feel free to drop her a line with any questions or queries. Or pop over to her website for access to bonus content and a sneak peek into her writing corner of the world.

Reviews

[Bri · Rating 4 out of 5]

Get it here:
Amazon US * Amazon UK

First, I need to give a shoutout to my friend Michelle who recommended this book to me because this was definitely my type of book. I really enjoyed the suspense that was weaved throughout every page and how well it blended with the romances and the flirting that was happening. The story had a true crime feel to it which I absolutely loved. It felt different than the usual type of romantic suspense and I thought it was a unique way of storytelling. 

Overall, this is a must read and a book I would recommend to everyone. It's the type of book that I think all readers could fall in love with whether they're going into it for the romance, the mystery, or the true crime podcast storyline. This was my first novel from the author but I can say for sure it won't be my last. 

[Laura Nelson (Tangents and Tissues) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Full review to follow! Spoiler alert: I loved it!

[Chris Ray · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC and I had no idea what to expect. This book was so addicting I couldn’t put it down. I absolutely loved that you got glimpses into the killers perspective and what makes them tick, and the detectives working the case and seeing all sides coming together. This book played out like a movie and I was hooked! I had such a fun time reading it. Will absolutely check out the next installment.

[Reflections of a Book Geek · Rating 5 out of 5]

I finished this book at 4am this morning and I still can’t quite put into words how I feel about it. It sucked me straight in from the very first page and kept me captivated the whole way through! This was one of the best books I think I’ve ever read. It had so many different POV’s in it which made it unique in my opinion. I have known Christine for a few years and read her first series which I thought she wouldn’t be able to top but this surpasses it, her writing style is unique and so addicting!

The characters in this book were all very likeable and they all had good qualities, obviously except the killer! I really liked watching the relationships develop throughout the story! The dynamics between each character was well developed throughout the book!

Getting to read the POV from the killer was definitely a different experience and made this book what it was I think. When I found out who he actually was I was like “ohhhhh shit” it was such a tense moment for me.

I can not wait to see the journey Christine takes us on in the next book in this series and hopefully there will be many more like it! I now have the book hangover from hell!

[Sammi Reyes · Rating 5 out of 5]

So. Good. I could not put it down. It was suspenseful while still having a bit of romance mixed in, and had my jaw literally dropping a few times.

This book offers pov from all the main characters, which was a first for me, getting to read from more than just one or two, but it totally works here. I loved getting to read from every person’s perspective throughout the story without it just repeating what already happened.

Overall just a really great book with a gripping storyline.

[Jenni Catherine · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is out of my usual realm of reading but it hooked me from the beginning. It marries true crime, armchair detectives and romance together. I honestly couldn't see where it was going at times and that made me enjoy it more. I can't wait for more Detective John Walters in book 2.

Multiple POVs
Different character pairings. (Best friends brother)

[Emilee Seegert · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️ I enjoyed this book. I liked the story and the characters. It gave Criminal Minds vibes. This kind of book is not what I usually read, but trying to dip my toes in this genre. It would have been 4 stars except for the typos. Why were there so many!? And the over use of exclamation points. I’m not sure why that bothered me so much. Would I recommend this book? Yea. Will I continue the series? Probably.

[Ais · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book! I read it so quickly despite it being quite scary at times. I had to force myself to put it down 😅

If you like Criminal Minds you'll love it!

The characters are relatable and feel real. The story is gripping. I can't wait to read more by Christine Winston!

[Shay · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️

Multiple POV
Romance
Suspense
Mystery
Murder

Wow, I felt like I was watching an episode of Criminal Minds. This was an amazing read. All of the side characters were fantastic and I enjoyed getting their POVS.

Especially Jeffery’s POVs I loved being able to get a glimpse into the mind of the serial killer. It was so well done!

Once I hit 50% I ZOOMED through I couldn’t put it down!

This book had me gripping on to my kindle for dear life! Highly recommend!

[Emma White · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have just finished this book, and all I can say is, It was amazing.
I fell in love with the characters so quickly.
Has a great storyline. I couldn't put the book down.
If you love reading suspense, then you have to read this story.
It was so different to others I have read, with a strangly interesting signature.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a book!!

I've been dying to read more books from this author since I started reading her last year. The book was so worth the wait The Breaking Wheel is brilliant. I was on the edge of my seat from start to finish. Its been a while since I've read a Romance Mystery and I have to say I've missed it. The story was so good but messed up in a good way though. Ive never wanted to hurt a guy so much in my life. Think I might of even shouted at my kindle a few times. I got so frustrated in parts cause i just wanted to know what was going to happen. I just couldnt read quick enough haha. I was a little unsure about there being so many POV's in the story but I shouldn't of it added more to story and we got to know all the characters that were involved in the twisted story.

The book was very well written the author has definitely done her research on the book. The things that happened you just wouldn't know unless you worked in that area so I have to take my hat off to Christine she has done a brilliant job. Even keeping up with all the characters she didn't let anything slip she just made me luv them. Faye and Savannah were brilliant in this book and they are definitely my favourites. They are both very different but make the best team. Faye wouod be a bit more quiet but still strong. Savannah is strong and very independent and kniws whats she wants. There friendship is just perfect. Detective Walters that guy is a major grump and you dare get in the guys way but he knows his stuff and wants to do anything to get the job done. Detective Perez she is one feisty woman and doesn't back down from a fight she is amazing at her job. There is one part in this book and she just shows how good she is think i was left speakless at her. Then there's the men Luke and Scott. Luke is Faye's brother and so protective he will do anything to protect her. They have been through a lot together so there bond is very strong. Scott he is so sweet I really liked him straight away. The bond he has with the girls was good they have great banter together. Like Luke Scott is very protective of the girls to and liked how he cared aboit them. Then you are left with the villain of all villains. It's been a long time since I've really hated someone in a book but this guy he will be in my top 5. I can't believe what he did i'm still in shock. He is one psychotic man.

I don't want to go into the story to much cause I don't want to spoil it but please check this author and book out there so good. This book will keep you on your toes from start to finish. I was hooked from the first page dying to know what was goin happen next and who it involved. I'm dying to see what this author will do next im so excited. I need more books now.

[Sylvia Clail · Rating 5 out of 5]

I purposely kept this review focused away from the story as I do not want to spoil it for any reader.

The Breaking Wheel gave me Steven King Vibes and captured my attention and mind in a way no other book has in a long time.

The Breaking Wheel took me much longer to read than a standard book. As the story unfolded with the detail I found myself lost in research about the stories subject matter. I was hooked and my head could not switch off from the authors attention to detail. I wanted to know every piece of information related to 'The Breaking Wheel'.

The description in some scenes is graphic, I read over it several times it is so raw. This shows the authors research is flawless and really drew me in.

The author was sensitive to the readers as there is a much needed trigger warning at the start of the book.
Despite this I found there was balance and some much needed light scenes that had me sniggering due to the quirkiness of the characters who I grew fond off.

Savannah's character is strong and feminie and she added a light humour to this dark read with her unusual facts and one liners. She has a cocky attitude but is likeable.

Faye the female protagonist in the story is a girl next door type character who is extremely intelligent and you warm to quickly.

I also warmed to F.B.I agent Perez. Another strong female character. I really enjoyed that the author made the female characters stand out without being arrogant or unlikeable.

This book challenges stereotypes and really gets your brain whirring. I worked for many years in the criminology field and can honestly say few books shock or grip me but this one is a must read for any psychological thriller lovers out there.

Some quotes:
' I don't cotton to the idea of a helpless woman needing a man. I am no damsel in distress'. Savannah

'I myself can only liken it to barbed wire being wrapped around your heart and having it pulled through, taking chunks of who you are with it. Your heart has to heal without those pieces, it has to find a way to beat again. Life is never the same'.

[C. Jaye · Rating 5 out of 5]

My No.1 read of 2023 so far! ‘The Breaking Wheel’ is a page-turner through and through romantic suspense! I was lucky enough to join Christine Winston’s ARC team for her latest release. It is full of jaw-dropping and edge-of-your-seat moments! At times, my heart was racing so much, I thought it might jump out and runaway! This gripping story follows Faye and Savannah, who are the hosts of a late night true crime radio show; managed by the very appealing Scott. Their focus is on the latest murder victim, Rose. But unbeknown to them, one of their listeners begins a sinister obsession with one of their hosts.
The killer is very disturbed, twisted and stuck in a time warp; so cleverly sinister that sends a chill down your spine! I like the fact that you get the killer’s point of view as well… why he is the way he is, etc.
Meanwhile, detective John Walters, the lead investigator for Rose’s murder, is busy collecting the evidence and leads on possible suspects. I loved John’s ‘stuck in his ways’ personality. The FBI sends in agent Della Perez to help with the investigation, who also softens the stern personality of Walters. Towards the end when they are piecing together all their leads, Christine has a superb way of making you feel like you are a fly on the wall watching it all unfold; how the leads bounce around the investigation room was so well written it flowed like how you see in movies/ tv shows.
Once again, Christine nearly made me fall out of my chair when the detectives went after the suspect; my heart was in my throat the entire time because you couldn’t even guess which way it was going to go! Safe to say, when I reached the end, I needed a drink because my jaw was hanging for the entirety of them shocking moments!

I can truthfully say that I haven’t read anything as gripping as this since The Girl On The Train! It’s definitely a 5* read for me! Highly recommended! Please note: the author has put a content warning at the beginning of the book, so please check that out before diving into this book.

[Joanne Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

5⭐️ 0.5 🌶️
This was my first ever romantic suspense novel. I had absolutely no idea what to expect but I absolutely loved it. I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this book and am so glad I did!

First of all the writing was really really good in this book. It was super easy to follow but was very descriptive which kept me interested. I enjoyed that it was from multiple perspectives, we even get to read from the killer’s perspective which was so very interesting!

I loved all the different relationships Faye had with people in the book, and how we got to know a little bit more about them. Even the detective working on the case I enjoyed getting to know about them more.

I would definitely recommend this book it was suspenseful and engaging! I really enjoyed it 😊

[everything.kate.reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved it! I’m not usually rocking the romantic suspense type but, this was soooo worth it!

I received this as an ARC and this is MY very honest opinion.

Christine Winston also wrote the “Undone Series”.

The book traces a set of podcasters and Law Enforcement folks who are all trying to solve some very nasty, serial killer shite.

I don’t do spoilers, but this comes from MULTIPLE perspectives, and very well done!

I can see sometimes when things are about to “hit” for the story line, but, Ms Winston didn’t give me that level of bored at all.

Suspense with romance may have a new convert!

10/5 (think Phantom of the Opera her) BRAVA, CHRISTINE!

On TikTok as chriswinauthor

[Haribo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jeez, how did I make it to the end without hiding under my blanket (spoiler, I hid behind my pillow instead). This is not your average, typical romance. It reads like a film script with adrenaline pumping, creepiness which grips you from the beginning. You will feel as invested in the plot as you are in the romantic relationships of the characters (no cheating, there is just more than 1 couple finding love). Can’t wait to see how this series progresses and meeting more characters in this world.

[Marisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Woah what a ride! We do have multiple POVs with everyone involved so that was an excitement on its own.
I enjoyed being able to see what was going through their minds especially the kîllërs POV.

There were for sure some suspenseful moments where I was at the edge of my seat!

When we find out who the Serial Kîllêr was, it kind of had has you at that I knew it moment! Even though your mind is spinning at it.

The book was written well and I can’t wait for next book!

[Zara McCormick · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 book review

I have read all of Christine’s work so far and this book did not disappoint! It was amazing! I would say her best so far.

This story was like a movie in my head. I could see an feel everything. Could have passed as a true crime novel. I mostly enjoyed reading the killers perspective as I got to see what made them tick. Unreal to see how the case came all together. I was hooked from the first page!

[Terry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved this.
Faye & Savannah are feisty and so likeable!
It’s got everything you need in this book.
Thrills, women kidnapped and bodies found. Police, who are also very good characters.
There’s murder, romance and just a full round excellent story.
Couldn’t wait to get home and finish it tonight.
Really looking forward to more.
My first by this author and not my last.

[Alyssa Skaggs · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is truly amazing and had me sucked in from start to finish. It lets you into the mind of the killer and what makes them tick. If you like crime suspense and thriller this is definitely for you.

[Grace · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rating: ★★★½ (3.5/5)
The writing was fine, but the storyline felt pretty predictable. It followed a familiar formula — everyone falls in love, and nothing really surprised me. I was hoping for more twists or depth, but it ended up feeling kind of generic.

[Pauline Keegan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gripping thriller

Great read, flows well with pace and draws you in to the twisted mind of the serial killer and those trying to thwart his efforts

[Ashley Kasper · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent read, takes place in Wisconsin. It was a quick easy read with a lot of suspense. Hard to put down!

[Brandi Pacholik · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read, I loved the multiple povs. Sucked me in, I couldn't put it down. I would highly recommend!

[Jodi Langan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I got the joy of being an ARC reader for this book and I loved it! I enjoyed that it jumped to the different POVs, it really sets the detail of the book and you get to see all sides of the story!

The chapters were filled to the brim with detail and I thought it made for such a rich read. I am sucker for a great mystery/thriller and this one did not disappoint!

I can’t wait to read more in this series! I highly recommend checking this book out!

[ThroneofJess · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really enjoyed the multiple POV, the story was being moved on and not just relived from another perspective.

I feel like Savannah is everyone's best friend and showed depth to a character I wasn't necessarily expecting.

I love everything about true crime so it was nice to have a true crime element within a fictional book, the story was gripping and had me feeling like an armchair detective.

The relationship between Faye and the other characters was great, her conversations with Scott had me grinning and cringing at the same time which is always a good mix.

Overall a really good book and I enjoyed every second of it and can't wait to read more from this series

[Alexis · Rating 5 out of 5]

(Copied my review from Amazon and will probably updated it once I'm finished reading)
Currently in the process of rereading this book and wanted to update my review about it but see Amazon took it down booo but here is a full blown updated information for this book with honest thoughts. ❤️❤️❤️❤️

I do recommend this book.
Blurb is what drawn me into this book.
Already told others to read this book and my best friend has read it and called me little mean naughty gremlin 🤣 so I take it she liked it too.
5 star book
Can't wait to have a physical copy of this book in my hands.
Has helped me though rough times.
Ived read this book once but I'm already back to it to reread it again because I loved it alot. I hope other people love and enjoy this book as much as I do

[Zoe Murphy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is not my usual style of book however I loved this from the get go! I absolutely loved reading from each characters point of view and really enjoyed every character especially Savannah!

This book is very well written and as pointed out by another reviewer really does read like a movie! I loved the book right from the start but once I got halfway in I was totally hooked! I can’t wait for the next instalment!!!

[nothing but amazing books Lacey Threapleton Wygerde · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my first From this author and it won’t be my last that’s for sure . As soon as got chance I jump right I was hooked. Literally devoured this in this in go I couldn’t put it down so desperate what happens next . This this whole book kept me on the edge of my seat. i was completely eating this story up . This definitely To what I normally I really enjoyed it and looking forward to more books from this author !!!!