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Detective Rebecca Ellis #1
No Safe Place
A little knowledge is a dangerous thing…
Detective Rebecca Ellis has some big shoes to fill. Her father was the legendary detective, Hank Ellis, now retired from the Bangor Police Department. Emerging from his shadow hasn’t been easy.
So when she’s assigned to work with new hire, Detective Euan McCallister, Ellis is determined to keep their investigation right on track.
The explosive fire in a church parking lot looks straightforward at first. Claire Allen, a volunteer at the church, burned to death in her car. But then Ellis discovers the seatbelt had been rigged, trapping Claire in the inferno. This was no accident. It was murder.
Why was Claire at the church that night? Who would want her dead? In the race to find the truth, Ellis unearths a horrifying secret that takes the investigation into very dangerous territory.
Soon, Ellis will learn that in the search for this particular killer, there is no safe place.
Detective Rebecca Ellis has some big shoes to fill. Her father was the legendary detective, Hank Ellis, now retired from the Bangor Police Department. Emerging from his shadow hasn’t been easy.
So when she’s assigned to work with new hire, Detective Euan McCallister, Ellis is determined to keep their investigation right on track.
The explosive fire in a church parking lot looks straightforward at first. Claire Allen, a volunteer at the church, burned to death in her car. But then Ellis discovers the seatbelt had been rigged, trapping Claire in the inferno. This was no accident. It was murder.
Why was Claire at the church that night? Who would want her dead? In the race to find the truth, Ellis unearths a horrifying secret that takes the investigation into very dangerous territory.
Soon, Ellis will learn that in the search for this particular killer, there is no safe place.
326 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 15, 2023
519 people are currently reading
352 people want to read
About the author
Robin Mahle
57 books300 followersRobin Mahle, Mystery and Suspense author, lives with her husband and two children in Virginia.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 111 reviews
January 23, 2025
NO SAFE PLACE is the first in Robin Mahle's riveting new cop procedural/crime thriller featuring Detective Rebecca Ellis. BLOWN AWAY! Top-notch. Reminiscent of Lisa Gardner's Detective DD Warren.
I loved this book —the author's writing, and this new series, Detective Rebecca Harris and her partner! Who doesn't love thrillers revolving around corrupt and evil churches? They often hold the worst criminals disguised as saintly members with hidden dark secrets.
Sharply written, tension-filled with twists readers are unlikely to see coming, and a detective that is tough as nails! A fabulous new series and I cannot wait for the next one!
The book opens with Claire, who has just discovered something and unfortunately does not make it out of the Grace Community Church church parking lot before she is murdered. Her car was tampered with, and she is trapped inside a burning car fire.
Set in Maine, during the winter and snow, Bangor Police Detective Rebecca Ellis and her partner Detective Euan McCallister are assigned to the case.
Rebecca (age 34), is divorced and has been with the Bangor PD for over a decade. Her father, Retired Detective Hank Ellis, was a great detective, and she has big shoes to fill. He has been retired from the force for five years. She would always be known as Hank's daughter.
The investigation gets very complex. The car was tampered with and someone murdered Claire. But whom?
The first suspect is always the husband. Scott Allen, a banker, has an alibi, but there is still some suspicion. He also was having an affair with someone in the church.
The other prime suspects are Jeff Harwick, the young pastor, and Pastor Zeke (Ezekiel) Townsend, the lead pastor.
They soon interview many people connected to the couple at the church, including their best friends, Ethan and Maxine Rehnquist, with a young daughter, Vanessa.
With much pressure to close the case, they must put together the missing pieces of the puzzle. From embezzlement, corruption, murder, and fraud, to child pornography. They have lots of suspicions but they need proof to tie together this murder and get a conviction.
The tension is high and soon, someone else is murdered. This is bigger than they thought. How far does this reach?
Someone is following Rebecca, and the closer she and her partner get to the truth, the more danger they are in.
Vanessa, the little girl, knows something. If they can get her to talk. What is actually going on inside this evil church?
EXPLOSIVE! A multi-layered and complex investigation. With fast-paced, non-stop action, Ellis is tenacious and will stop at nothing to bring justice and bring down the bad guys (even if she has to break a few rules). I loved Rebecca and Euan together and hope to see more of him.
Rebecca is flawed and relatable, with a tragic past starting when she was twelve.
Her life has not been easy. Her mom and dad separated when she was young and her mom married an abusive man. She wound up shooting/killing her stepdad at age 12 while trying to protect her mom. Unfortunately, she was unable to save her mom.
Her dad remarried (wife now deceased) and had another child, Carter (age 23), her half-brother, which is always in trouble and a drug addict. He is an ongoing source of her problems between her and her dad.
Her partner Detective Euan McCallister comes from Boston and he also has some mysterious secrets from his past and things he is dealing with regarding a past murder. The two make for a great duo and Detective Ellis does not take crap from anyone! Love her.
Immersive, propulsive, utterly chilling, yet, profoundly moving. From well-developed characters, and vivid settings/descriptions, fans of kick-ass female investigators will be well-satisfied. This author's writing is highly impressive. For fans of Lisa Gardner and Karin Slaughter. (two of my favorites).
NO SAFE PLACE brilliantly explores how evil is passed down from generation to generation and the true nature of humanity. It's a gripping mystery and psychological suspense thriller that will keep you up late at night, haunted by the events within its pages. I read in two sittings.
I have just discovered a new favorite author. Robin Mahle has just been added to my list, and looking forward to reading her backlist and new upcoming books.
NO SAFE PLACE is prime for the small or big screen! I purchased the e-book and the hardcover. Hope this comes in audiobook format later. I cannot wait for the next in the series!
If you enjoy corrupt churches and priests, check out Aime Austin's legal crime thriller, (Nicole Long Series) Outcry Witness and upcoming Without Consent (Mar 8, 2023).
Blog Review Posted @
www.JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
My Rating: 5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟STARS
Pub Date: Jan 15, 2023
Jan 2023 Must-Read Books
Top Books of 2023 List
I loved this book —the author's writing, and this new series, Detective Rebecca Harris and her partner! Who doesn't love thrillers revolving around corrupt and evil churches? They often hold the worst criminals disguised as saintly members with hidden dark secrets.
Sharply written, tension-filled with twists readers are unlikely to see coming, and a detective that is tough as nails! A fabulous new series and I cannot wait for the next one!
The book opens with Claire, who has just discovered something and unfortunately does not make it out of the Grace Community Church church parking lot before she is murdered. Her car was tampered with, and she is trapped inside a burning car fire.
Set in Maine, during the winter and snow, Bangor Police Detective Rebecca Ellis and her partner Detective Euan McCallister are assigned to the case.
Rebecca (age 34), is divorced and has been with the Bangor PD for over a decade. Her father, Retired Detective Hank Ellis, was a great detective, and she has big shoes to fill. He has been retired from the force for five years. She would always be known as Hank's daughter.
The investigation gets very complex. The car was tampered with and someone murdered Claire. But whom?
The first suspect is always the husband. Scott Allen, a banker, has an alibi, but there is still some suspicion. He also was having an affair with someone in the church.
The other prime suspects are Jeff Harwick, the young pastor, and Pastor Zeke (Ezekiel) Townsend, the lead pastor.
They soon interview many people connected to the couple at the church, including their best friends, Ethan and Maxine Rehnquist, with a young daughter, Vanessa.
With much pressure to close the case, they must put together the missing pieces of the puzzle. From embezzlement, corruption, murder, and fraud, to child pornography. They have lots of suspicions but they need proof to tie together this murder and get a conviction.
The tension is high and soon, someone else is murdered. This is bigger than they thought. How far does this reach?
Someone is following Rebecca, and the closer she and her partner get to the truth, the more danger they are in.
Vanessa, the little girl, knows something. If they can get her to talk. What is actually going on inside this evil church?
EXPLOSIVE! A multi-layered and complex investigation. With fast-paced, non-stop action, Ellis is tenacious and will stop at nothing to bring justice and bring down the bad guys (even if she has to break a few rules). I loved Rebecca and Euan together and hope to see more of him.
Rebecca is flawed and relatable, with a tragic past starting when she was twelve.
Her life has not been easy. Her mom and dad separated when she was young and her mom married an abusive man. She wound up shooting/killing her stepdad at age 12 while trying to protect her mom. Unfortunately, she was unable to save her mom.
Her dad remarried (wife now deceased) and had another child, Carter (age 23), her half-brother, which is always in trouble and a drug addict. He is an ongoing source of her problems between her and her dad.
Her partner Detective Euan McCallister comes from Boston and he also has some mysterious secrets from his past and things he is dealing with regarding a past murder. The two make for a great duo and Detective Ellis does not take crap from anyone! Love her.
Immersive, propulsive, utterly chilling, yet, profoundly moving. From well-developed characters, and vivid settings/descriptions, fans of kick-ass female investigators will be well-satisfied. This author's writing is highly impressive. For fans of Lisa Gardner and Karin Slaughter. (two of my favorites).
NO SAFE PLACE brilliantly explores how evil is passed down from generation to generation and the true nature of humanity. It's a gripping mystery and psychological suspense thriller that will keep you up late at night, haunted by the events within its pages. I read in two sittings.
I have just discovered a new favorite author. Robin Mahle has just been added to my list, and looking forward to reading her backlist and new upcoming books.
NO SAFE PLACE is prime for the small or big screen! I purchased the e-book and the hardcover. Hope this comes in audiobook format later. I cannot wait for the next in the series!
If you enjoy corrupt churches and priests, check out Aime Austin's legal crime thriller, (Nicole Long Series) Outcry Witness and upcoming Without Consent (Mar 8, 2023).
Blog Review Posted @
www.JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
My Rating: 5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟STARS
Pub Date: Jan 15, 2023
Jan 2023 Must-Read Books
Top Books of 2023 List
January 28, 2023
I received an advance reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review as part of the book tour hosted by Zooloos Book Tours.
No Safe Place is the first book in the Detective Rebecca Ellis series and I am really looking forward to reading the next one. Rebecca (Becca) Ellis is a respected detective in the Bangor Police Department, following in her retired father Hanks footsteps. After an investigation is launched into a car fire at a church, Ellis is partnered with new-to-the-department Decective Euan McCallister. When the investigation turns from accident to possible murder, the detectives must tie the pieces of the puzzle to a further investigation that unfolds and work out how the two seemingly different cases are linked together. I really liked both Becca and Euans characters and hope the two detectives work together as partners in the rest of the series and look forward to discovering more about both characters back stories and hope for a possible romance between the pair.
No Safe Place is the first book in the Detective Rebecca Ellis series and I am really looking forward to reading the next one. Rebecca (Becca) Ellis is a respected detective in the Bangor Police Department, following in her retired father Hanks footsteps. After an investigation is launched into a car fire at a church, Ellis is partnered with new-to-the-department Decective Euan McCallister. When the investigation turns from accident to possible murder, the detectives must tie the pieces of the puzzle to a further investigation that unfolds and work out how the two seemingly different cases are linked together. I really liked both Becca and Euans characters and hope the two detectives work together as partners in the rest of the series and look forward to discovering more about both characters back stories and hope for a possible romance between the pair.
December 22, 2022
No Safe Place by Robin Mahle.
Detective Rebecca Ellis Book 1.
Detective Rebecca Ellis has some big shoes to fill. Her father was the legendary detective, Hank Ellis, now retired from the Bangor Police Department. Emerging from his shadow hasn’t been easy. So when she’s assigned to work with new hire, Detective Euan McCallister, Ellis is determined to keep their investigation right on track. The explosive fire in a church parking lot looks straightforward at first. Claire Allen, a volunteer at the church, burned to death in her car. But then Ellis discovers the seatbelt had been rigged, trapping Claire in the inferno. This was no accident. It was murder.
I really enjoyed this book. Rebecca was my favourite. I can't wait for next book. 5*.
Detective Rebecca Ellis Book 1.
Detective Rebecca Ellis has some big shoes to fill. Her father was the legendary detective, Hank Ellis, now retired from the Bangor Police Department. Emerging from his shadow hasn’t been easy. So when she’s assigned to work with new hire, Detective Euan McCallister, Ellis is determined to keep their investigation right on track. The explosive fire in a church parking lot looks straightforward at first. Claire Allen, a volunteer at the church, burned to death in her car. But then Ellis discovers the seatbelt had been rigged, trapping Claire in the inferno. This was no accident. It was murder.
I really enjoyed this book. Rebecca was my favourite. I can't wait for next book. 5*.
January 16, 2023
I really enjoy police procedurals and this was no exception- especially when the MC is a strong minded female. The story flowed really well, and there were a lot of layers that kept me needing to know more.
The story was engaging and fast paced. I binged this in two settings and was constantly interested in the plot and the twists. Some of the twists I guessed- but others I did not see coming at all.
I highly recommend this book to fans of Karin Slaughter. I will absolutely be reading more from this author and more from this series when they are released.
Two crimes- one investigation - and somehow no leads. Ellis must use her gut instinct and advice from her dad, an ex-detective, to see if she has what it takes to solve two particularly heinous crimes.
Some triggers include reference to child pornography, and typical suspense/murder investigation plot.
Big thanks to the publisher and netgalley for the advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
The story was engaging and fast paced. I binged this in two settings and was constantly interested in the plot and the twists. Some of the twists I guessed- but others I did not see coming at all.
I highly recommend this book to fans of Karin Slaughter. I will absolutely be reading more from this author and more from this series when they are released.
Two crimes- one investigation - and somehow no leads. Ellis must use her gut instinct and advice from her dad, an ex-detective, to see if she has what it takes to solve two particularly heinous crimes.
Some triggers include reference to child pornography, and typical suspense/murder investigation plot.
Big thanks to the publisher and netgalley for the advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
January 11, 2023
Initially I thought this was a continuing series due to the back stories unfolding but it soon became apparent. I liked the way it was not straight forward and it worked . Will definitely be reading more by this author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 25, 2023
‘No Safe Place’ is a brilliant start to a new series based in a small city in Maine! I found it to be nuanced, empathetic, full of tension and twists and turns. I read the full book in two sittings and didn't want to leave the world of Detective Rebecca Ellis.
Rebecca Ellis is a detective in her local force and she has big shoes to fill as her father Hank was once a leading detective there before his retirement. She has been partnered up with a new guy Euan McCallister who has transferred down from Boston. When a car is set on fire in a church car park with its owner trapped inside it they soon realise that they have a murder case on their hands. But why was the victim, Claire, at the church that night? Their investigation soon takes them down a twisted path and into a crime they didn't expect!
I loved Rebecca Ellis as a character, a tough female protagonist with empathy and a troubled past. I liked her backstory as a kid and it was a good touch making her love (and frustration) for her family part of the narrative. Especially, when she is living under the shadow of her father’s reputation of being a legend! I also like the beginning of what I can see being a great partnership between her and Euan. I can't wait for the author to dive more into his backstory!
This was a fast-paced book that really allowed me the tension to build up as we were getting to know the characters and the players in the mystery. I will say that I did guess who the baddie was going to be but that didn't affect my enjoyment of the book. And I really did enjoy it. The narrative did turn down a dark corner towards the halfway point but it was done with empathy and sympathetic touch.
Roll on book two!
Rebecca Ellis is a detective in her local force and she has big shoes to fill as her father Hank was once a leading detective there before his retirement. She has been partnered up with a new guy Euan McCallister who has transferred down from Boston. When a car is set on fire in a church car park with its owner trapped inside it they soon realise that they have a murder case on their hands. But why was the victim, Claire, at the church that night? Their investigation soon takes them down a twisted path and into a crime they didn't expect!
I loved Rebecca Ellis as a character, a tough female protagonist with empathy and a troubled past. I liked her backstory as a kid and it was a good touch making her love (and frustration) for her family part of the narrative. Especially, when she is living under the shadow of her father’s reputation of being a legend! I also like the beginning of what I can see being a great partnership between her and Euan. I can't wait for the author to dive more into his backstory!
This was a fast-paced book that really allowed me the tension to build up as we were getting to know the characters and the players in the mystery. I will say that I did guess who the baddie was going to be but that didn't affect my enjoyment of the book. And I really did enjoy it. The narrative did turn down a dark corner towards the halfway point but it was done with empathy and sympathetic touch.
Roll on book two!
January 18, 2025
If you're looking for a new police procedural/thriller series- I'd recommend this. It's fast paced and filled with intrigue. I devoured it in 2 days.
I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the Rebecca Ellis series.
I read this story as part of the boxset ARC - thanks to NetGalley and Inkubator Books for allowing me the chance to read this in exchange for an honest review.
I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the Rebecca Ellis series.
I read this story as part of the boxset ARC - thanks to NetGalley and Inkubator Books for allowing me the chance to read this in exchange for an honest review.
January 1, 2023
Thanks to Inkubator Books, Netgalley and the author, Robin Mahle for an e-ARC of No Safe Place.
I was intrigued by the synopsis of this book, and the fact that it takes place in a fictionalized version of my hometown.
This was a solid 4 star police detective mystery for me. I enjoyed the lead character, female detective Rebecca Ellis quite a bit and found the plot/mystery interesting.
There were parts of the story/investigation that seemed to drag just a bit but once the investigation picked up, the plot followed and I zipped through the last quarter of the book.
I was intrigued by the synopsis of this book, and the fact that it takes place in a fictionalized version of my hometown.
This was a solid 4 star police detective mystery for me. I enjoyed the lead character, female detective Rebecca Ellis quite a bit and found the plot/mystery interesting.
There were parts of the story/investigation that seemed to drag just a bit but once the investigation picked up, the plot followed and I zipped through the last quarter of the book.
May 23, 2023
A new author and review platform for me and a great start.
Detective Becca Ellis and new work partner Euan McCallister investigate a fatal car fire in the car park at a church in Maine, USA. It soon emerges that the victim, Claire Allen, was murdered due to her car being rigged.
Claire's husband, Scott, is initially helpful but this doesn't last long when his main alibi begins to fall apart. There are other people connected to the church, including its pastor, with secrets they would rather remained in the dark.
I found this a fast-paced and well-written crime novel. Robin Mahle draws her principal characters well and I enjoyed the interplay between Becca and Euan and their colleagues in the Bangor PD. It was also good to see some of Becca's back story with her former detective father, Hank, and half-brother Carter. Certainly more mileage there.
It isn't obvious who the murderer is, although I did have a hunch around halfway through that proved right. The ending suggests more investigations, and maybe even a little romance, to come Becca's way.
It should be noted that there are references to child pornography in this story, although the subject is handled with sensitivity and there are no graphic scenes.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am looking forward to reading more from Robin Mahle, especially if this standard is kept up.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Detective Becca Ellis and new work partner Euan McCallister investigate a fatal car fire in the car park at a church in Maine, USA. It soon emerges that the victim, Claire Allen, was murdered due to her car being rigged.
Claire's husband, Scott, is initially helpful but this doesn't last long when his main alibi begins to fall apart. There are other people connected to the church, including its pastor, with secrets they would rather remained in the dark.
I found this a fast-paced and well-written crime novel. Robin Mahle draws her principal characters well and I enjoyed the interplay between Becca and Euan and their colleagues in the Bangor PD. It was also good to see some of Becca's back story with her former detective father, Hank, and half-brother Carter. Certainly more mileage there.
It isn't obvious who the murderer is, although I did have a hunch around halfway through that proved right. The ending suggests more investigations, and maybe even a little romance, to come Becca's way.
It should be noted that there are references to child pornography in this story, although the subject is handled with sensitivity and there are no graphic scenes.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am looking forward to reading more from Robin Mahle, especially if this standard is kept up.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 8, 2023
La storia e i personaggi mi sono piaciuti, ma mi c'è voluto mezzo libro per entrare in sintonia con la scrittura: non è che sia scritto male o "strano", solo in alcuni punti non mi convinceva del tutto. Dovrebbe essere il primo di una serie, quindi leggerò anche il libro successivo, se uscirà, per vedere se verrà confermata la prima impressione, sperando che la scrittura mi piacerà di più.
January 27, 2024
This was an enjoyable police procedural. It kept me guessing as to who the killer would be. The characters were nicely developed, and there were twists along the way.
January 15, 2023
A fast paced and a great new detective series!
A masterpiece and a brand new detective series with Bangor Police Detective 34 year old Rebecca Ellis and her partner detective Evan McCallister who are called to a woman burnt to death in her car outside a church. But this wasn’t just an accident this was Arson and Murder blatant viscous!
The book starts with a “Bang” you’re straight into a real tightly written thriller which keeps your interest on a high and your brain asking questions and trying to solve the case with Ellis. But things are not what they first seem and so may avenues and leads twist and change as the case develops.
A great read!
A masterpiece and a brand new detective series with Bangor Police Detective 34 year old Rebecca Ellis and her partner detective Evan McCallister who are called to a woman burnt to death in her car outside a church. But this wasn’t just an accident this was Arson and Murder blatant viscous!
The book starts with a “Bang” you’re straight into a real tightly written thriller which keeps your interest on a high and your brain asking questions and trying to solve the case with Ellis. But things are not what they first seem and so may avenues and leads twist and change as the case develops.
A great read!
January 1, 2023
What a great mystery book!!
Clair Scott is murdered, who did it?
Was it her husband? Was it someone from the Church? A friend?
There’s so many suspects, and answers that go through Detective. Becca Ellis and Detective McAllister. This was so hard to put down that I read it in one day dying to know what was going on and what they would find. I racked my brain and I was still wrong in the end.
If you love a good mystery this will keep you guessing with very little clues.
A great book! Thank you to Net Galley, the Publisher and Robin Mahle for this ARC in exchange for a review, it was amazing
Clair Scott is murdered, who did it?
Was it her husband? Was it someone from the Church? A friend?
There’s so many suspects, and answers that go through Detective. Becca Ellis and Detective McAllister. This was so hard to put down that I read it in one day dying to know what was going on and what they would find. I racked my brain and I was still wrong in the end.
If you love a good mystery this will keep you guessing with very little clues.
A great book! Thank you to Net Galley, the Publisher and Robin Mahle for this ARC in exchange for a review, it was amazing
January 16, 2023
A body is found inside a burned car at the Grace Community Church parking lot has shocked everyone. Detective Rebecca Ellis and her partner Detective Evan McCallister get the case. The victim's husband doesn't exactly make things easier for the police or himself. What is he hiding and did his wife suspect him? As they investigate further, there are more questions than answers. I voluntarily reviewed ARC of this book. Looking forward to the next one.
January 31, 2023
*Source* Kindle Unlimited
*Genre* Mystery
*Rating* 3.5
*Thoughts*
No Safe Space is the first installment in author Robin Mahle's Detective Rebecca Ellis series. Detective Rebecca Ellis of the Bangor Criminal Investigation Division has some big shoes to fill. Her father was the legendary detective, Hank Ellis, now retired from the Bangor Police Department. Emerging from his shadow hasn’t been easy. Especially when her boss idolized her father. Especially with a brother who resents her. Her new partner, Detective Euan McCallister, has some issues of his own that brought him from Boston to Bangor, Maine.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
*Genre* Mystery
*Rating* 3.5
*Thoughts*
No Safe Space is the first installment in author Robin Mahle's Detective Rebecca Ellis series. Detective Rebecca Ellis of the Bangor Criminal Investigation Division has some big shoes to fill. Her father was the legendary detective, Hank Ellis, now retired from the Bangor Police Department. Emerging from his shadow hasn’t been easy. Especially when her boss idolized her father. Especially with a brother who resents her. Her new partner, Detective Euan McCallister, has some issues of his own that brought him from Boston to Bangor, Maine.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
May 5, 2023
This is a new author for me. And I really enjoyed this book. I was truly grabbed by this story. And I had an idea who was the killer but there were many twists and turns to try and derail us.
Detective Rebecca Ellis has a traumatic past and some difficult hurdles in her life but yet she’s a dedicated cop. Who sometimes colors outside the lines for Justice. I’m going to dive into book 2.
Detective Rebecca Ellis has a traumatic past and some difficult hurdles in her life but yet she’s a dedicated cop. Who sometimes colors outside the lines for Justice. I’m going to dive into book 2.
January 6, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley and Inkubator Books for an advance copy of No Safe Place, the first book in Robin Mahle’s new Detective Rebecca Ellis series.
Detective Ellis and her new partner Euan McCallister are officers with the Bangor, Maine Police Department. When a beloved church volunteer is brutally murdered, an investigation of an entire community is set in motion. Feeling the pressure of following in her father’s legendary detective footsteps, she will stop at nothing to bring the offenders to justice.
The detectives are very likeable characters. While some of their backstories are gradually revealed, Mahle leaves a lot of breadcrumbs. This definitely peaked my interest about the next books in her series.
** Please note that in addition to violence and murder, there are other trigger warnings that involve child abuse and exploitation. These are disturbing events, which I wish I had known about before reading the book.
In this fast-paced police procedural, the reader is hooked from the first chapter. Mahle did a fantastic job of gripping the reader with the victim’s terrifying first person narrative.
This is a dialogue-driven novel, which makes sense for a procedural, but in this case it didn’t flow naturally. Some of the detectives’ interactions with each other and their suspects did not feel authentic. The dialogue also became repetitive. For example, after an event occurred, a character would later repeat the entire story to someone else. It felt unnecessary for the reader to have to read the same story twice.
Read this if you like…
- Playing detective
- Small town police procedurals
- Dark twists
- Dialogue-driven thrillers
Detective Ellis and her new partner Euan McCallister are officers with the Bangor, Maine Police Department. When a beloved church volunteer is brutally murdered, an investigation of an entire community is set in motion. Feeling the pressure of following in her father’s legendary detective footsteps, she will stop at nothing to bring the offenders to justice.
The detectives are very likeable characters. While some of their backstories are gradually revealed, Mahle leaves a lot of breadcrumbs. This definitely peaked my interest about the next books in her series.
** Please note that in addition to violence and murder, there are other trigger warnings that involve child abuse and exploitation. These are disturbing events, which I wish I had known about before reading the book.
In this fast-paced police procedural, the reader is hooked from the first chapter. Mahle did a fantastic job of gripping the reader with the victim’s terrifying first person narrative.
This is a dialogue-driven novel, which makes sense for a procedural, but in this case it didn’t flow naturally. Some of the detectives’ interactions with each other and their suspects did not feel authentic. The dialogue also became repetitive. For example, after an event occurred, a character would later repeat the entire story to someone else. It felt unnecessary for the reader to have to read the same story twice.
Read this if you like…
- Playing detective
- Small town police procedurals
- Dark twists
- Dialogue-driven thrillers
March 29, 2025
Good storyline, but poor carry through. There is very little description. This is the second story of the series I have read. It is also the second time a victim was identified using dental records ... while having no clue who the victim was. I thought you needed a potential victim in order to obtain dental records to compare.
January 21, 2023
A great police procedural involving a legacy detective and her new partner. A car on fire in a church parking lot leads police on the trail of a killer. I enjoyed the characters and all the surprises in this story. I would definitely read more books by this author.
December 28, 2022
(TW :I wanted to mention that this book touches on child abuse/molestation, addiction and domestic violence.)
Two detectives, Rebecca and Euan, are chasing leads to solve a homicide that took place in a small town. The book opens up with a murder which instantly makes the story interesting. Your curiosity is instantly piqued. There's alot more happening which keeps on making the case messier and messier and harder to solve.
Intially you're sucked in because of the murder on the very first page but quickly you feel the writing is a bit choppy. But I was still quite curious so I continued. After about 27% I started getting bored because the detectives were chasing dead ends, the story was going nowhere, there was no surprising or shocking information to keep me hooked so I started skimming. Eventually things started getting complicated but I still didn't enjoy those revelations, I'd blame the writing for that. The writing wasn't executed well which made the whole book quite boring. Even when things unravelled they were delivered blandly or chaotically that it stripped away my intrigue.
The detectives were very likable but it wasn't enough to get me to give this a higher rating. I also felt that the execution of the climax was distasteful. The bad guy (btw I knew who he was early on) did a few things that didn't make sense, even the explanation he gave was quite bizarre so there were alot of loop holes in this story and the end was very sloppy. Even executions of some exchanges were absurd and flat. Like when the bad guy is revealed to us, well more specifically to certain characters, those characters reactions were very flat and umimpressing. Also, the villain's backstory was touched quickly and lightly at the end in just a few lines, I mean if you can't give enough time to build something up its better to leave it then to cram it in a few lines.
All in all I think the plot wasn't bad, the idea could've been quite a hit if the writing hadn't been so clumsy or dull.
Wouldn't recommend it.
Two detectives, Rebecca and Euan, are chasing leads to solve a homicide that took place in a small town. The book opens up with a murder which instantly makes the story interesting. Your curiosity is instantly piqued. There's alot more happening which keeps on making the case messier and messier and harder to solve.
Intially you're sucked in because of the murder on the very first page but quickly you feel the writing is a bit choppy. But I was still quite curious so I continued. After about 27% I started getting bored because the detectives were chasing dead ends, the story was going nowhere, there was no surprising or shocking information to keep me hooked so I started skimming. Eventually things started getting complicated but I still didn't enjoy those revelations, I'd blame the writing for that. The writing wasn't executed well which made the whole book quite boring. Even when things unravelled they were delivered blandly or chaotically that it stripped away my intrigue.
The detectives were very likable but it wasn't enough to get me to give this a higher rating. I also felt that the execution of the climax was distasteful. The bad guy (btw I knew who he was early on) did a few things that didn't make sense, even the explanation he gave was quite bizarre so there were alot of loop holes in this story and the end was very sloppy. Even executions of some exchanges were absurd and flat. Like when the bad guy is revealed to us, well more specifically to certain characters, those characters reactions were very flat and umimpressing. Also, the villain's backstory was touched quickly and lightly at the end in just a few lines, I mean if you can't give enough time to build something up its better to leave it then to cram it in a few lines.
All in all I think the plot wasn't bad, the idea could've been quite a hit if the writing hadn't been so clumsy or dull.
Wouldn't recommend it.
January 24, 2023
I do love starting a new series and finding new characters to become invested in and it’s not different here. A very hard-hitting subject that you have no idea about until it’s right in your face but one done so well and with care.
Becca Ellis is a strong lead and I love how she is introduced. She’s one of the lads but still in her father’s shadow and I just warmed to her straight away.
I will admit at times I was a bit confuddled as the author jumped from the use of the Detective’s first names and surnames but I managed to figure it out eventually. It didn’t hamper my reading, I just wasn’t always entirely clear when the group was together who might be talking. Anyhoo this story gallops along at a pace and it doesn’t relent. I feel like the case was dealt with in real time, and a lot of beer was drunk, but it made it more realistic. We saw the constraints for the police as the evidence doesn’t match. The twists and turns as we try to piece together what the heck is going on.
I love the team we have in this book and I am already looking forward to the next book in this series. I need to know more about Euan, who I might admit to having a small book crush on. The glimpses of his past show us that it hasn’t been easy and I am eager to see how Becca will cope.
I really enjoyed this book and my introduction to Robin’s writing. It was a book so easy to lose yourself in and I managed to finish this in a couple of sitting. I wanted to keep getting back to the book whenever I could. I do love a book that can hook me in like that!
So when’s the next one out?
Becca Ellis is a strong lead and I love how she is introduced. She’s one of the lads but still in her father’s shadow and I just warmed to her straight away.
I will admit at times I was a bit confuddled as the author jumped from the use of the Detective’s first names and surnames but I managed to figure it out eventually. It didn’t hamper my reading, I just wasn’t always entirely clear when the group was together who might be talking. Anyhoo this story gallops along at a pace and it doesn’t relent. I feel like the case was dealt with in real time, and a lot of beer was drunk, but it made it more realistic. We saw the constraints for the police as the evidence doesn’t match. The twists and turns as we try to piece together what the heck is going on.
I love the team we have in this book and I am already looking forward to the next book in this series. I need to know more about Euan, who I might admit to having a small book crush on. The glimpses of his past show us that it hasn’t been easy and I am eager to see how Becca will cope.
I really enjoyed this book and my introduction to Robin’s writing. It was a book so easy to lose yourself in and I managed to finish this in a couple of sitting. I wanted to keep getting back to the book whenever I could. I do love a book that can hook me in like that!
So when’s the next one out?
January 16, 2023
No Safe Place is a new police procedural series featuring Detective Rebecca Ellis of the Bangor Police Department. She is partnered with newly hired Detective Euan McCallister, who relocated from Boston. Ellis and McAllister are tasked with investigating the death of a loved and respected church volunteer who was found burned to death in her car in the church parking lot. It is determined the car had been tampered with and the case is ruled a homicide. Their investigation reveals multiple crimes with motives of greed, envy and lust linked to the church and its members.
This book has a great cast of characters that sets this up to be an intriguing series, including the mysteries of why McAllister left Boston PD for a small-town police department, and another detective who graduated from West Point, but is working for a small-town police department. There is also family drama with Ellis who is following in her father’s footsteps – he is a highly respected, retired Bangor PD detective who misses being on the job. We are also introduced to Ellis’ half-brother who has a drug addiction and is a source of friction between Ellis and her father.
This is a fantastic start to a new series. I was hooked from page one and had a tough time putting this down. I look forward to reading more in this series.
Thank you to Net Galley, author Robin Mahle and Inkubator Books for the opportunity to review the advance copy of this book.
This book has a great cast of characters that sets this up to be an intriguing series, including the mysteries of why McAllister left Boston PD for a small-town police department, and another detective who graduated from West Point, but is working for a small-town police department. There is also family drama with Ellis who is following in her father’s footsteps – he is a highly respected, retired Bangor PD detective who misses being on the job. We are also introduced to Ellis’ half-brother who has a drug addiction and is a source of friction between Ellis and her father.
This is a fantastic start to a new series. I was hooked from page one and had a tough time putting this down. I look forward to reading more in this series.
Thank you to Net Galley, author Robin Mahle and Inkubator Books for the opportunity to review the advance copy of this book.
March 11, 2023
Possible spoilers
Oh boy 😅 I'm so glad this book ended. I woke up this morning, fed my pups, ate bk, got ready for the day and then opened this book, I fell asleep reading it for an hour. I had trouble keeping my eyes open all day, needless to say- the book was...boring. It wasn't completely awful hence the two star rating but... yea, I'm not impressed. There issues with the book, like all the detectives are new except one. New as in fresh detectives that only have a few yrs under their belt. None of them were senior with experience. It's hard to understand how the two main characters actually solved the case. That's impressive. There was also the issue of an interview. If a person of interest or suspect asks for a lawyer, all questions have to stop. In the book..the detective kept going 🤦🏽♀️. I also see how the detectives didn't even tell the guy he was free to leave because he wasn't a full suspect yet. They didn't tell the guy that he was being recorded. Dude seriously? Are you sure these are cops? Then there's the issue of the detective who illegally broke into a place to find evidence. Gee wiz and they weren't even reprimanded. And then there's the fact that there was possible child exploitation...that would have been passed into the feds. But it wasn't. My last complaint was the word "uh huh" mentioned several times through the book. It was annoying and childish. There are better words than " uh huh". lol.
I gave this a two. I don't recommend reading unless you have Insomnia lol.
Oh boy 😅 I'm so glad this book ended. I woke up this morning, fed my pups, ate bk, got ready for the day and then opened this book, I fell asleep reading it for an hour. I had trouble keeping my eyes open all day, needless to say- the book was...boring. It wasn't completely awful hence the two star rating but... yea, I'm not impressed. There issues with the book, like all the detectives are new except one. New as in fresh detectives that only have a few yrs under their belt. None of them were senior with experience. It's hard to understand how the two main characters actually solved the case. That's impressive. There was also the issue of an interview. If a person of interest or suspect asks for a lawyer, all questions have to stop. In the book..the detective kept going 🤦🏽♀️. I also see how the detectives didn't even tell the guy he was free to leave because he wasn't a full suspect yet. They didn't tell the guy that he was being recorded. Dude seriously? Are you sure these are cops? Then there's the issue of the detective who illegally broke into a place to find evidence. Gee wiz and they weren't even reprimanded. And then there's the fact that there was possible child exploitation...that would have been passed into the feds. But it wasn't. My last complaint was the word "uh huh" mentioned several times through the book. It was annoying and childish. There are better words than " uh huh". lol.
I gave this a two. I don't recommend reading unless you have Insomnia lol.
January 9, 2023
This is one of my favorite kinds of books to read. Crime thriller with twists and turns I don’t expect. The detectives in this book had so many things happening all at once and then the author brought it all together in the end. The characters were very believable and I was intrigued by their dialogue and personalities. This book is a exciting read that will be hard to look away from.
June 2, 2023
Bitchy cop, kid-killing cop, whiffs of Blue Lives Matter. Don’t waste your time if you have taste.
January 1, 2023
I would like to thank Netgalley and Inkubator Books for an advance copy of No Safe Place, the first novel to feature Detective Rebecca Ellis of the Bangor, Maine Police Department.
Becca is assigned to work with new hire Euan McCallister on the death of Claire Allen in a car fire in the local church car park. They soon realise that Claire was murdered, due to a tampered with seatbelt but why? And what was she doing at the church so late at night?
I thoroughly enjoyed No Safe Place, which is a fast moving procedural with likeable characters. It is told mostly from Ellis’s point of view with contributions from other characters as and when required.
I like a police procedural because the format appeals to me. I like the idea of a wide open suspect pool that narrows through diligence, nous and a touch of luck and I love the way forensics has developed as a strong arrow in their quiver. I also like the way ancillary crimes are discovered along the way and in this case it is not one but two serious crimes that are uncovered. Much of the novel revolves around deciding which crime led to murder. It works well and kept my attention throughout.
The novel is fairly fast moving with new discoveries in every chapter or so it seems. Ellis and McCallister cover a lot of ground in their hunt for a killer, but soon they are not just hunting a killer but other criminals as well. It muddies the waters and makes the novel more interesting, but not enough to keep the reader totally in the dark. I had a good idea of who from about half way through, but not enough detail to spoil my read.
The novel establishes Ellis’s character strongly from living in the shadow of her father, legendary detective, Hank, to the issues with her stepbrother, Carter and her backstory. I think the author belabours the Carter thing as it has no contribution to the investigation and we got the sibling rivalry the first time, but it does give the reader a warts and all picture of her. McCallister too has a backstory, but as it is not revealed in this story I assume it will be in the next. As a result he is a foil to Ellis rather than a fully developed partner.
No Safe Place is an easy read that I can recommend.
Becca is assigned to work with new hire Euan McCallister on the death of Claire Allen in a car fire in the local church car park. They soon realise that Claire was murdered, due to a tampered with seatbelt but why? And what was she doing at the church so late at night?
I thoroughly enjoyed No Safe Place, which is a fast moving procedural with likeable characters. It is told mostly from Ellis’s point of view with contributions from other characters as and when required.
I like a police procedural because the format appeals to me. I like the idea of a wide open suspect pool that narrows through diligence, nous and a touch of luck and I love the way forensics has developed as a strong arrow in their quiver. I also like the way ancillary crimes are discovered along the way and in this case it is not one but two serious crimes that are uncovered. Much of the novel revolves around deciding which crime led to murder. It works well and kept my attention throughout.
The novel is fairly fast moving with new discoveries in every chapter or so it seems. Ellis and McCallister cover a lot of ground in their hunt for a killer, but soon they are not just hunting a killer but other criminals as well. It muddies the waters and makes the novel more interesting, but not enough to keep the reader totally in the dark. I had a good idea of who from about half way through, but not enough detail to spoil my read.
The novel establishes Ellis’s character strongly from living in the shadow of her father, legendary detective, Hank, to the issues with her stepbrother, Carter and her backstory. I think the author belabours the Carter thing as it has no contribution to the investigation and we got the sibling rivalry the first time, but it does give the reader a warts and all picture of her. McCallister too has a backstory, but as it is not revealed in this story I assume it will be in the next. As a result he is a foil to Ellis rather than a fully developed partner.
No Safe Place is an easy read that I can recommend.
December 22, 2022
I read No Safe Place by Robin Mahle in one day. I could not put it down. The storyline was so good that I had to find out what would happen.
Detective Rebecca Ellis has some big shoes to fill as her father was a legendary detective, now retired, from the Bangor Police Department.
Readers are introduced to her and her family dynamics. She is also assigned to work with a new hire, Detective Euan McCallister, who is hiding his own secrets for coming to Bangor PD.
Ellis and McCallister are called to an explosive fire in a church parking lot. Claire Allen, a volunteer at the church, burned to death in her car. But Ellis discovers the seatbelt had been rigged, trapping Claire in the inferno. This was no accident. It was murder.
This book was filled with fast-paced scenes, well-developed characters, and a gripping storyline. You didn't know how things were going to connect or if those things were really connected at all. The author did a great job of unraveling the story scene by scene.
No Safe Place is a good police procedural with intriguing characters. I did kind of guess who the culprit was toward the third part of the book, but it was still fun and exciting to see it unfold and see if my hunch was correct.
No Safe Place had a good storyline, some very sad and disturbing parts, and outstanding characters. I am looking forward to more books with these characters.
I would recommend this book. A 5 out of 5 stars.
#NoSafePlace #NetGalley @VE_NetGalley
Detective Rebecca Ellis has some big shoes to fill as her father was a legendary detective, now retired, from the Bangor Police Department.
Readers are introduced to her and her family dynamics. She is also assigned to work with a new hire, Detective Euan McCallister, who is hiding his own secrets for coming to Bangor PD.
Ellis and McCallister are called to an explosive fire in a church parking lot. Claire Allen, a volunteer at the church, burned to death in her car. But Ellis discovers the seatbelt had been rigged, trapping Claire in the inferno. This was no accident. It was murder.
This book was filled with fast-paced scenes, well-developed characters, and a gripping storyline. You didn't know how things were going to connect or if those things were really connected at all. The author did a great job of unraveling the story scene by scene.
No Safe Place is a good police procedural with intriguing characters. I did kind of guess who the culprit was toward the third part of the book, but it was still fun and exciting to see it unfold and see if my hunch was correct.
No Safe Place had a good storyline, some very sad and disturbing parts, and outstanding characters. I am looking forward to more books with these characters.
I would recommend this book. A 5 out of 5 stars.
#NoSafePlace #NetGalley @VE_NetGalley
February 11, 2023
No Safe Place by Robin Mahle is the first book in the new Detective Rebecca Ellis series and what a great start to a promising series this was. This was a great page turner with lots of twists and turns from the beginning till the end.
When Detective Rebecca Ellis has some big shoes to fill. Her father was the legendary detective, Hank Ellis, who is now retired from the Bangor Police Department. Emerging from his shadow hasn’t been easy. But Rebecca know she can do it, it's not going to be easy. People are watching and judging her with every step she makes............
She’s the assigned to work with new hire, Detective Euan McCallister, Rebecca is so determined to keep their investigation right on track.
There's an explosive fire in a church parking lot it all looks straightforward at first. Claire Allen, who was a volunteer at the church, is burn't to death in her car. Whilst investigating Rebecca discovers the seatbelt had been rigged, trapping Claire in the inferno. This was no accident. This was murder.........But Why?
Why was Claire at the church that night?
Who would want her dead?
In the race to find the truth, Rebecca unearths a horrifying secret that takes the investigation into very dangerous territory.
Soon, Rebecca will learn that in the search for this particular killer, there is no safe place.
Is Rebecca safe?
This book was So good and I highly recommend this book.
When Detective Rebecca Ellis has some big shoes to fill. Her father was the legendary detective, Hank Ellis, who is now retired from the Bangor Police Department. Emerging from his shadow hasn’t been easy. But Rebecca know she can do it, it's not going to be easy. People are watching and judging her with every step she makes............
She’s the assigned to work with new hire, Detective Euan McCallister, Rebecca is so determined to keep their investigation right on track.
There's an explosive fire in a church parking lot it all looks straightforward at first. Claire Allen, who was a volunteer at the church, is burn't to death in her car. Whilst investigating Rebecca discovers the seatbelt had been rigged, trapping Claire in the inferno. This was no accident. This was murder.........But Why?
Why was Claire at the church that night?
Who would want her dead?
In the race to find the truth, Rebecca unearths a horrifying secret that takes the investigation into very dangerous territory.
Soon, Rebecca will learn that in the search for this particular killer, there is no safe place.
Is Rebecca safe?
This book was So good and I highly recommend this book.
January 18, 2023
A little knowledge is a dangerous thing…
Detective Rebecca Ellis has some big shoes to fill. Her father was the legendary detective, Hank Ellis, now retired from the Bangor Police Department. Emerging from his shadow hasn’t been easy.
So when she’s assigned to work with new hire, Detective Euan McCallister, Ellis is determined to keep their investigation right on track.
The explosive fire in a church parking lot looks straightforward at first. Claire Allen, a volunteer at the church, burned to death in her car. But then Ellis discovers the seatbelt had been rigged, trapping Claire in the inferno. This was no accident. It was murder.
Why was Claire at the church that night? Who would want her dead? In the race to find the truth, Ellis unearths a horrifying secret that takes the investigation into very dangerous territory.
Soon, Ellis will learn that in the search for this particular killer, there is no safe place.
Such a thrilling and gripping read.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable.
Great suspense and action with wonderful world building.
Can't wait to read what the author brings out next.
Recommend reading.
I was provided an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher. This is my own honest voluntary review.
Detective Rebecca Ellis has some big shoes to fill. Her father was the legendary detective, Hank Ellis, now retired from the Bangor Police Department. Emerging from his shadow hasn’t been easy.
So when she’s assigned to work with new hire, Detective Euan McCallister, Ellis is determined to keep their investigation right on track.
The explosive fire in a church parking lot looks straightforward at first. Claire Allen, a volunteer at the church, burned to death in her car. But then Ellis discovers the seatbelt had been rigged, trapping Claire in the inferno. This was no accident. It was murder.
Why was Claire at the church that night? Who would want her dead? In the race to find the truth, Ellis unearths a horrifying secret that takes the investigation into very dangerous territory.
Soon, Ellis will learn that in the search for this particular killer, there is no safe place.
Such a thrilling and gripping read.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable.
Great suspense and action with wonderful world building.
Can't wait to read what the author brings out next.
Recommend reading.
I was provided an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher. This is my own honest voluntary review.
December 23, 2022
This was the 1st book in the Rebecca Ellis series which will be published Jan 15, 2023.
I read “no safe place” by Robin Mahle really quickly it was so fast paced and I couldn’t seem to put it down till I found out what happened.
Detective Ellis had some really big shoes to fill as her father was a legendary detective now retired of the Bangor police department.
She was assigned along with a new hire from Boston named Euan McAllister an explosive fire in the church parking lot. They come soon to find out that a local well respected woman named Claire Allen was burned alive due to someone tampering with her vehicle.
This book was really fast paced and all of the characters and scenes worked well together to create the overall story. I wasn’t able to figure out who did it till the very end of the book. I had a few guesses but I was definitely wrong .
I am really looking forward to read more of Robins books especially in this series. But I’ll also be reading her other books as well. Definitely a five star read for me and I will be recommending this to all my close friends .
Thank you #NetGalley
I received an advanced review copy for free from NetGalley and I am leaving this review voluntarily .
I read “no safe place” by Robin Mahle really quickly it was so fast paced and I couldn’t seem to put it down till I found out what happened.
Detective Ellis had some really big shoes to fill as her father was a legendary detective now retired of the Bangor police department.
She was assigned along with a new hire from Boston named Euan McAllister an explosive fire in the church parking lot. They come soon to find out that a local well respected woman named Claire Allen was burned alive due to someone tampering with her vehicle.
This book was really fast paced and all of the characters and scenes worked well together to create the overall story. I wasn’t able to figure out who did it till the very end of the book. I had a few guesses but I was definitely wrong .
I am really looking forward to read more of Robins books especially in this series. But I’ll also be reading her other books as well. Definitely a five star read for me and I will be recommending this to all my close friends .
Thank you #NetGalley
I received an advanced review copy for free from NetGalley and I am leaving this review voluntarily .
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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