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Emily Slate #8
A Liar's Grave
The Past Never Stays Buried.
Fresh off exposing the biggest security breach in the history of the FBI, Special Agent Emily Slate has come to terms with her husband’s death. But before she can enjoy some peace of mind for once, a mysterious letter arrives in her dead mother’s handwriting. Unwilling to entertain it as anything but a bad joke, she dismisses it in favor of a new case.
But no sooner have Emily and Zara arrived in a quaint skiing town in New Hampshire before they realize they’re dealing with a twisted mind. A killer takes a new victim every Saturday night, staging them in a gruesome manner only for the bodies to be found days later. Each victim is from a different nearby town and the killer shows no hint of who could be next.
Emily and Zara will have to face a near-insurmountable number of obstacles if they want to get to the truth behind these murders. And when they discover the truth, Emily will find herself at a crossroads she’s never faced before.
Will she stop the killer at any cost, or allow them to finish what they started, even though it’s against everything sworn to uphold?
Fresh off exposing the biggest security breach in the history of the FBI, Special Agent Emily Slate has come to terms with her husband’s death. But before she can enjoy some peace of mind for once, a mysterious letter arrives in her dead mother’s handwriting. Unwilling to entertain it as anything but a bad joke, she dismisses it in favor of a new case.
But no sooner have Emily and Zara arrived in a quaint skiing town in New Hampshire before they realize they’re dealing with a twisted mind. A killer takes a new victim every Saturday night, staging them in a gruesome manner only for the bodies to be found days later. Each victim is from a different nearby town and the killer shows no hint of who could be next.
Emily and Zara will have to face a near-insurmountable number of obstacles if they want to get to the truth behind these murders. And when they discover the truth, Emily will find herself at a crossroads she’s never faced before.
Will she stop the killer at any cost, or allow them to finish what they started, even though it’s against everything sworn to uphold?
260 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 21, 2023
744 people are currently reading
339 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
March 29, 2023
Another striking and exciting premise! 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
September 4, 2024
Halfway through series and its still very inventive but even though I gave this five I am starting to get annoyed with Emily. She makes bad decisions and treats Liam terribly. I. Just wish she'd lighten up. I may have to take a break soon just to get away from her. But the mysteries are good.
March 24, 2023
This series is getting better and better. Ending with unanswered questions. Will the answer be good news. Will it be the answer to questions from Emily's past. Or will it something sinister. The great intriguing question. Looking forward to the next installment and hopefully a few answers.
March 21, 2023
Just when Emily thinks she can finally put her husband’s death behind her, a mysterious letter arrives in what looks like her dead mother’s handwriting. But before she can dive into that mystery, she and Zara get pulled into a gruesome series of murdered men, each one taken on a Saturday night and found the next day on display in the most ghastly way possible.
This new installment in the Emily Slate series will keep you guessing all the way through. Her cases just get better and better. Can’t wait for the next one!
This new installment in the Emily Slate series will keep you guessing all the way through. Her cases just get better and better. Can’t wait for the next one!
February 15, 2024
Received as an ARC, this is an honest review. After all of the life shattering secrets Emily Slate has uncovered buried within the family she married into and the FBI itself; she is only just beginning to bring some normalcy back into her life. Another personal storm in Emily's life is brewing as a letter supposedly dead mom surfaces; leaving her with swirling questions that don't have an easy answers or an easy way to handle the emotional turmoil coming with it. A new case brings Emily and Zara to New Hampshire where a killer is stalking small towns and displaying its male victims that makes a memorable statement. Finding a killer that knows how to stay off the radar isn't easy, especially when a corrupt police force is determined to keep their secrets close and forever silent. But as Emily and Zara begin close in on the murderer, Emily faces the internal struggle that maybe with this killer; this is just the kind of justice these sick men deserved.
The second season of Emily Slate is off to an explosive start.
Highly recommended.
The second season of Emily Slate is off to an explosive start.
Highly recommended.
June 27, 2025
What a twisted web!
Emily & Zara are sent north, to a collection of small towns plagued by a grisly murder every Saturday night for the past four weeks. The county’s DA has called the FBI for assistance but he seems to be the only one happy to have Emily & Zara’s aid. The latest victim was the brother of one of that town’s police detectives, yet that same department keeps throwing up hurdles and actively trying to impede the investigation. With minimal leads, hardly any physical evidence, and only 48 hours before the killer is due to strike again… Emily & Zara have their work cut out for them.
The case and the investigation were compelling. I wanna avoid spoilers, but the killer has a clear & understandable reason for their actions and it was interesting to see Emily’s response.
While her professional life is on an upswing, Emily’s personal life is not. Things are tense and strained between her and sweet Liam. She’s hiding things from Zara. And the mystery of who sent the letter from Emily’s (dead?) mother hangs over her head like a doomsday clock.
This book positively flew by for me. With the Organization behind her, I felt like Emily (and me as the reader) could really hone in on the case. Yes, there were still distractions from her personal life, but there was a fresh intensity to Emily’s focus and it made for a stellar read.
Emily & Zara are sent north, to a collection of small towns plagued by a grisly murder every Saturday night for the past four weeks. The county’s DA has called the FBI for assistance but he seems to be the only one happy to have Emily & Zara’s aid. The latest victim was the brother of one of that town’s police detectives, yet that same department keeps throwing up hurdles and actively trying to impede the investigation. With minimal leads, hardly any physical evidence, and only 48 hours before the killer is due to strike again… Emily & Zara have their work cut out for them.
The case and the investigation were compelling. I wanna avoid spoilers, but the killer has a clear & understandable reason for their actions and it was interesting to see Emily’s response.
While her professional life is on an upswing, Emily’s personal life is not. Things are tense and strained between her and sweet Liam. She’s hiding things from Zara. And the mystery of who sent the letter from Emily’s (dead?) mother hangs over her head like a doomsday clock.
This book positively flew by for me. With the Organization behind her, I felt like Emily (and me as the reader) could really hone in on the case. Yes, there were still distractions from her personal life, but there was a fresh intensity to Emily’s focus and it made for a stellar read.
March 30, 2023
Emily Slate has found herself in another investigation into a serial killer. This time, the killer is targeting abusers and killing them in the most appropriate way. The local law enforcement is not happy about the FBI being called in to help the investigation. There is more to the story than a squabble between agencies. This story is filled with a lot of twists and turns. Emily discovers how to deal with her past grief and hurt. Zara is a great friend. I love the interactions between these two characters. New characters are introduced in the FBI agency that have a lot of potential. Then there is the twist, that letter from her dead mother. What is going on with that? You will never know if you don’t read the book. I love this story and would highly recommend it.
April 2, 2023
Another magnificent pouring with our favorite Special Agent, Emily Slate. The depth of the character continues to expand over the series, and the reader is fully engaged in the life of the protagonist.
I am still on the fence with the new overreaching arc, but I'm committed and intrigued where it may lead.
The author has a way of pulling the trading in and not letting them go. When I put down the book, I'm still wondering what Enjoy is thinking or going to do next.
Great job, as per the usual.
Overall rating: 3.643906
I am still on the fence with the new overreaching arc, but I'm committed and intrigued where it may lead.
The author has a way of pulling the trading in and not letting them go. When I put down the book, I'm still wondering what Enjoy is thinking or going to do next.
Great job, as per the usual.
Overall rating: 3.643906
May 5, 2023
Mystifying
I love good psychological mysteries and I've read quite a few. But you write in such a way that even though at the beginning of this story you gave a glimpse of where it was going. You have become one of my favorite authors. I know there are only two more books in this series, but I really hope there are more Emily Slate books in the future.
I love good psychological mysteries and I've read quite a few. But you write in such a way that even though at the beginning of this story you gave a glimpse of where it was going. You have become one of my favorite authors. I know there are only two more books in this series, but I really hope there are more Emily Slate books in the future.
April 27, 2023
Fantastic
I'm running out of great words to say how much I love reading these books, it's been another fantastic episode in a thrilling series of books. Can't wait to read the next one
I'm running out of great words to say how much I love reading these books, it's been another fantastic episode in a thrilling series of books. Can't wait to read the next one
April 25, 2023
Did not disappoint!
I really enjoy following Emily Slate on her cases. She's smart and a little bad ass. Love Zara and her wicked, sarcastic sense of humor. Excited for the next release.
I really enjoy following Emily Slate on her cases. She's smart and a little bad ass. Love Zara and her wicked, sarcastic sense of humor. Excited for the next release.
June 4, 2023
Book 8 picks up after the events of the Secret Seven, in which Emily has finally uncovered the web of deceit and lies that has been plaguing her since the death (and before) of her husband Matt. She has not only uncovered who killed him, but who Matt was, the group he was affiliated with, and more to the point, that at the end, Matt was killed because he was trying to turn on them. And he was turning on them because of his love for her, because she had made him a better person. The only problem of course, is that he has still been involved with all of it to start with.
Emily is still coming to terms with all of it at the start of this book, when she has her birthday, and Zara tries to throw her a somewhat, underwhelming surprise party.
Following that, Emily and Zara are sent on a new case, one that has seen four men murdered in four different areas, all of them in rather brutal fashion, with a specific body part cut from them, before they are left to bleed out. This is occurring every Saturday night, and the agents are left with a deadline of just a few days to try and uncover clues to who the killer might be, a link between the alleged victims, why they have been brutalised in that fashion, and more importantly, who is next?
However, they find that they are not particularly wanted in the district they have been called into, the location of the last murder. The D.A. for the Region, Jim Rice has become increasingly desperate, and asked for FBI help, but against the local Law Enforcement desires. As such, the two Agents find themselves stonewalled, and meeting outright hostility in some cases as they work urgently to find the killer and their next victim.
This is another complex, interwoven mystery, and Sigmore has created an exceptional tale that twists and turns as Slate and Foley uncover more on both the murder victims, and their suspect. But as they continue to unravel this mystery, they find that there is a lot of reason behind these killings, and as the next deadline comes and they Agents close in on their suspect, the two Women find themselves conflicted about the lines of justice.
A Liar’s Grave is a really fascinating episode in the series as it is the first follow up after Emily has finally uncovered everything, but also the first after she has received the supposed note from her dead mother, leaving her completely shattered. Emily has been through so much, hunting for Matt’s killer, and is running on empty, physically and psychologically. She was already struggling after Matt’s death, then the situation in which she nearly killed the child.
To then be thrown into a continuous hunt, with life and death struggles with an assassin and a group who is after her, for her husbands killer, and then to find out that he was part of a group that was kidnapping and molesting children – it has left her drained. Now, on top of all of it, there is a letter from her dead mother. This is on top of countless cases she has had to solve with serial killers and brutal murders, not to mention the loss of a partner and several near death experiences herself – it is lucky she has not had a mental breakdown.
The start of this book shows just how isolated Emily has become, the party was a really good look at her character, the toll all of this has had on her, how suspicious she is of everyone around her. She has cut herself off from nearly everyone except Zara and Liam, and even then, her relationship with Liam is on the edge. Zara is her only lifeline to any sort of normalcy. The damage to her character is really starting to show in this book, it is well done. Zara continues to be the true friend, someone who is as loyal as they come, but even she is starting to show signs of significant worry about Emily.
This continues to be a really outstanding psychological mystery, thriller series, with exceptional character work, and compelling, gripping story lines that make the book nearly impossible to put down once you pick it up. An absolute must read for fans of the series, and I can’t wait for book 9.
Emily is still coming to terms with all of it at the start of this book, when she has her birthday, and Zara tries to throw her a somewhat, underwhelming surprise party.
Following that, Emily and Zara are sent on a new case, one that has seen four men murdered in four different areas, all of them in rather brutal fashion, with a specific body part cut from them, before they are left to bleed out. This is occurring every Saturday night, and the agents are left with a deadline of just a few days to try and uncover clues to who the killer might be, a link between the alleged victims, why they have been brutalised in that fashion, and more importantly, who is next?
However, they find that they are not particularly wanted in the district they have been called into, the location of the last murder. The D.A. for the Region, Jim Rice has become increasingly desperate, and asked for FBI help, but against the local Law Enforcement desires. As such, the two Agents find themselves stonewalled, and meeting outright hostility in some cases as they work urgently to find the killer and their next victim.
This is another complex, interwoven mystery, and Sigmore has created an exceptional tale that twists and turns as Slate and Foley uncover more on both the murder victims, and their suspect. But as they continue to unravel this mystery, they find that there is a lot of reason behind these killings, and as the next deadline comes and they Agents close in on their suspect, the two Women find themselves conflicted about the lines of justice.
A Liar’s Grave is a really fascinating episode in the series as it is the first follow up after Emily has finally uncovered everything, but also the first after she has received the supposed note from her dead mother, leaving her completely shattered. Emily has been through so much, hunting for Matt’s killer, and is running on empty, physically and psychologically. She was already struggling after Matt’s death, then the situation in which she nearly killed the child.
To then be thrown into a continuous hunt, with life and death struggles with an assassin and a group who is after her, for her husbands killer, and then to find out that he was part of a group that was kidnapping and molesting children – it has left her drained. Now, on top of all of it, there is a letter from her dead mother. This is on top of countless cases she has had to solve with serial killers and brutal murders, not to mention the loss of a partner and several near death experiences herself – it is lucky she has not had a mental breakdown.
The start of this book shows just how isolated Emily has become, the party was a really good look at her character, the toll all of this has had on her, how suspicious she is of everyone around her. She has cut herself off from nearly everyone except Zara and Liam, and even then, her relationship with Liam is on the edge. Zara is her only lifeline to any sort of normalcy. The damage to her character is really starting to show in this book, it is well done. Zara continues to be the true friend, someone who is as loyal as they come, but even she is starting to show signs of significant worry about Emily.
This continues to be a really outstanding psychological mystery, thriller series, with exceptional character work, and compelling, gripping story lines that make the book nearly impossible to put down once you pick it up. An absolute must read for fans of the series, and I can’t wait for book 9.
December 1, 2023
Can't get enough of Emily Slate
I tell my reading Friends about this author and the main characters. I tell them they have to begin reading from the first story and how much they will enjoy it. One of the stories waiting until I can get into the next one. The author is so good at having the second story dangling behind everything and then bringing it out for the next issue. I don't want Her stories to end.
I tell my reading Friends about this author and the main characters. I tell them they have to begin reading from the first story and how much they will enjoy it. One of the stories waiting until I can get into the next one. The author is so good at having the second story dangling behind everything and then bringing it out for the next issue. I don't want Her stories to end.
April 11, 2024
This was an audio book and I don't know if it was the narrator's voice or the actual writing but I continued to feel like this murder mystery was too juvenile to be an FBI serial murder mystery. The concept was fine but there was a lack of details that would have made it more interesting. The ending was also too quickly dispensed of and the build up didn't draw me in. It was ok as a distraction while doing chores but not compelling.
January 25, 2025
I wondered if the author would create another subplot after the murder of Emily's husband was solved. And, of course, she did. I am interested to see where this one goes. The author uses the good ole boys and dirty small town sheriff in books. That was the case here. This case was very interesting. The conclusion was satisfying if a little rushed. I did note some editing errors in this but they were easy to pass over. I am enjoying the series and will continue to read it.
February 12, 2025
I just finished book 8 in the Emily Slate series, YES, I read 1-8. I highly recommend this series, I have enjoyed all of them. The main character Emily is a strong woman with high morals. We all would love to have a best friend like Emily's friend Zara! The women are FBI agents who get the job done. The mystery/suspense in these stories kept my attention. On to book 9 now. Give this series a try, you'll be so glad you did!
April 7, 2023
Grim
Ah, now I remember why I backed away from this series.
The flagrant disregard of common sense and proper procedural protocols puts this protagonist into the realm of fantasy; yet author Sigmore writes mystery and human drama enticingly.
Wondering when readers will discover who and why Emily has a stalker THIS TIME.
Ah, now I remember why I backed away from this series.
The flagrant disregard of common sense and proper procedural protocols puts this protagonist into the realm of fantasy; yet author Sigmore writes mystery and human drama enticingly.
Wondering when readers will discover who and why Emily has a stalker THIS TIME.
January 10, 2025
Interesting Plot
This series by Ale Sigmore has been a series of twists and turns while the main character Emily Slate tries to navigate a formerly male dominated field. With outside sources sending twisting James of what should be a healing and stable home life.
A really well written series that has some compelling twists.
This series by Ale Sigmore has been a series of twists and turns while the main character Emily Slate tries to navigate a formerly male dominated field. With outside sources sending twisting James of what should be a healing and stable home life.
A really well written series that has some compelling twists.
October 24, 2025
Even at book eight, I continue to read late into the night! These books are incredible, with just the right amount of suspense to leave you on the edge of your seat. I like how the author wraps up the case by the end of the book, but there is still some continuation with Emily’s story for the next book that keeps the reader guessing!
July 14, 2023
Revenge
I was not disappointed in yet another Emily Slate FBI series. Each time I read one of these books, the stories are so thrilling. It never gets old. I really enjoy Emily and her brave tactics to bring evil people to justice. Can't get enough of Emily.
I was not disappointed in yet another Emily Slate FBI series. Each time I read one of these books, the stories are so thrilling. It never gets old. I really enjoy Emily and her brave tactics to bring evil people to justice. Can't get enough of Emily.
December 11, 2023
Addicting
I have to admit, very good reading. I first thought when starting this series, Emily was too into herself at first. And yeah still think that. Not many friends, only way to do something is her way or she goes rouge?? Well its all going to kick her in the butt someday.
I have to admit, very good reading. I first thought when starting this series, Emily was too into herself at first. And yeah still think that. Not many friends, only way to do something is her way or she goes rouge?? Well its all going to kick her in the butt someday.
June 5, 2024
Congratulations and well done on yet another brilliantly written book which once I started reading it I could not put it down. I Absolutely enjoyed reading this series and would definitely recommend to other avid readers like me 😊📖
July 18, 2024
LOVE THIS SERIES
The character development is great. The stories interesting and have lots of twists and turns. I haven’t read anything else since I started the series and I am excited to dive into #9.
The character development is great. The stories interesting and have lots of twists and turns. I haven’t read anything else since I started the series and I am excited to dive into #9.
August 8, 2025
Looking For Revenge
Emily and Zara, 2 FBI agents are sent to a small town in New Hampshire to stop the killing of young men every Friday night for a month. The sheriff in one town is rude and hostile to the agents. Emily and Zara investigate and find the sheriff is dirty.
Emily and Zara, 2 FBI agents are sent to a small town in New Hampshire to stop the killing of young men every Friday night for a month. The sheriff in one town is rude and hostile to the agents. Emily and Zara investigate and find the sheriff is dirty.
September 22, 2025
I started book one of the series a few months ago and have been slowly moving through the series.
I absolutely love how Alex Sigmore writes and cannot wait to read more about Emily Slate and what is to come next!
I absolutely love how Alex Sigmore writes and cannot wait to read more about Emily Slate and what is to come next!
June 8, 2023
pretty good
I’ve read all the books in this series so far. I enjoyed them all but this one had too much unimportant verbiage-where the others did not.
I’ve read all the books in this series so far. I enjoyed them all but this one had too much unimportant verbiage-where the others did not.
June 29, 2023
Awesome!!!!!!
Once again I could not put this book down Just like the others A great book Each one is so different Edge of your seat thrillers!!!
Once again I could not put this book down Just like the others A great book Each one is so different Edge of your seat thrillers!!!
July 19, 2023
I am enjoying the story but the typos distract me. Sometimes its an extra word or a missing one. Sad because its a great book.
August 20, 2023
Good series!!
August 30, 2023
Wow again
Oh my goodness!! I can not say enough about the Emily Slate series! If you love mysteries then you have to read these books.
Oh my goodness!! I can not say enough about the Emily Slate series! If you love mysteries then you have to read these books.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews