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Columbia River #5
At the River
A Wall Street Journal bestselling series.
The mystery of three missing teens and a traumatizing murder unearths decades of buried secrets in a shocking novel of suspense by a Wall Street Journal and Amazon Charts bestselling author.
Twenty years ago, five teenage campers disappeared. Two eventually turned up, bound and left for dead on the Columbia River’s rocky shore. Only Devin Bonner miraculously survived, but with no memories of what happened in the Oregon forest.
After decades, the cold case generates heat for FBI Special Agent Mercy Kilpatrick and her husband, Police Chief Truman Daly. They’re investigating the murder of a true-crime podcaster found at the river’s edge in the same location, and with the exact same manner of death. With the discovery, Devin’s nightmares return. His only real friend is Ollie Smith, Truman’s orphaned ward, whose own search for the truth sucks Ollie into a mystery far greater and more dangerous than anyone imagined.
Following a trail of fresh blood and an escalating series of murders, Mercy and Truman must work fast to unlock whatever traumas are buried in Devin’s memories before the secrets of the past claim another victim.
The mystery of three missing teens and a traumatizing murder unearths decades of buried secrets in a shocking novel of suspense by a Wall Street Journal and Amazon Charts bestselling author.
Twenty years ago, five teenage campers disappeared. Two eventually turned up, bound and left for dead on the Columbia River’s rocky shore. Only Devin Bonner miraculously survived, but with no memories of what happened in the Oregon forest.
After decades, the cold case generates heat for FBI Special Agent Mercy Kilpatrick and her husband, Police Chief Truman Daly. They’re investigating the murder of a true-crime podcaster found at the river’s edge in the same location, and with the exact same manner of death. With the discovery, Devin’s nightmares return. His only real friend is Ollie Smith, Truman’s orphaned ward, whose own search for the truth sucks Ollie into a mystery far greater and more dangerous than anyone imagined.
Following a trail of fresh blood and an escalating series of murders, Mercy and Truman must work fast to unlock whatever traumas are buried in Devin’s memories before the secrets of the past claim another victim.
368 pages, Hardcover
First published February 13, 2024
4290 people are currently reading
9225 people want to read
About the author
Kendra Elliot
40 books6,203 followersAn Amazon #1 selling author, Kendra Elliot has sold over 14 Million books and been on the WSJ best seller more than a dozen times.
She grew up in the lush Pacific Northwest and still lives, but spends most of the time in the high desert in flip flops.
She grew up in the lush Pacific Northwest and still lives, but spends most of the time in the high desert in flip flops.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 588 reviews
February 6, 2024
At the River by Kendra Elliot
brings mystery and suspense to a police procedural. However, it is so much more than that. This is the fifth book in the Columbia River series and the eighth book in the FBI Special Agent Mercy Kilpatrick series and features Mercy, her husband Police Chief Truman Daly, and Truman’s ward Ollie Smith as well as Detective Noelle Marshall of the Deschutes County Sheriff’s office. The novel is set in and around Eagle’s Nest, Oregon.
Twenty years ago, five teenage campers disappeared. Two turned up after several days, bound and left for dead on the shore of the Columbia River. The only one of the two to survive was Devin Bonner, but he doesn’t remember what happened. When a true crime podcaster is found dead in the same location with the same manner of death, Mercy, Truman, and other law enforcement personnel are determined to solve the recent murder along with the cold case.
Mercy is calm, intense, a talented investigator, and projects confidence. Truman has a calming effect on others. He also looks out for the older residents of Eagle’s Nest and the surrounding area. Ollie is compassionate, kind, thoughtful, and has a strong sense of right and wrong. Noelle is well-respected and very direct.
The suspenseful and complex story was well-plotted. It blended murder, disappearances, and amnesia with family, friendship, and much more. The story kept me captivated from its gripping beginning to its somewhat surprising conclusion. There are several twists and turns along the way and the pacing was good throughout the book. The author is an excellent storyteller who kept me rapidly turning the pages. My quibbles are that there was a little too much tell versus show at times and the ending was slightly rushed.
While the mysteries and their investigation drive a lot of the story, relationships play a big role as well. I enjoyed their threads being woven into the plot and seeing them unfold. Understanding the fallout from things kept hidden added to the enjoyment of the novel.
Overall, this engrossing police procedural has great characterization with likeable and relatable main characters as well as a solid mystery and story line. Themes include murder, secrets, disappearances, family, caring for others, friendship, and much more. While some characters are recurring, enough background is provided that allows this to work as a standalone novel as well. I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series. Readers who appreciate mysteries and police investigations combined with family relationships will likely enjoy this series. Will Detective Noelle Marshall get her own book soon?
Montlake and Kendra Elliot provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for February 13, 2024. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
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My 4.52 rounded to 5 stars review is coming soon.
Twenty years ago, five teenage campers disappeared. Two turned up after several days, bound and left for dead on the shore of the Columbia River. The only one of the two to survive was Devin Bonner, but he doesn’t remember what happened. When a true crime podcaster is found dead in the same location with the same manner of death, Mercy, Truman, and other law enforcement personnel are determined to solve the recent murder along with the cold case.
Mercy is calm, intense, a talented investigator, and projects confidence. Truman has a calming effect on others. He also looks out for the older residents of Eagle’s Nest and the surrounding area. Ollie is compassionate, kind, thoughtful, and has a strong sense of right and wrong. Noelle is well-respected and very direct.
The suspenseful and complex story was well-plotted. It blended murder, disappearances, and amnesia with family, friendship, and much more. The story kept me captivated from its gripping beginning to its somewhat surprising conclusion. There are several twists and turns along the way and the pacing was good throughout the book. The author is an excellent storyteller who kept me rapidly turning the pages. My quibbles are that there was a little too much tell versus show at times and the ending was slightly rushed.
While the mysteries and their investigation drive a lot of the story, relationships play a big role as well. I enjoyed their threads being woven into the plot and seeing them unfold. Understanding the fallout from things kept hidden added to the enjoyment of the novel.
Overall, this engrossing police procedural has great characterization with likeable and relatable main characters as well as a solid mystery and story line. Themes include murder, secrets, disappearances, family, caring for others, friendship, and much more. While some characters are recurring, enough background is provided that allows this to work as a standalone novel as well. I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series. Readers who appreciate mysteries and police investigations combined with family relationships will likely enjoy this series. Will Detective Noelle Marshall get her own book soon?
Montlake and Kendra Elliot provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for February 13, 2024. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
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My 4.52 rounded to 5 stars review is coming soon.
February 6, 2024
3.75 stars
i could not put it down. this book engulfed me in its twisted and confusing plot, from the very first gory scene to the last jaw-dropping revelations. i read it in one sitting. It was the manner in which every parcelle of the narrative was sewed to another piece in some way, and it was all tangled in an absolutely brilliant fashion. the book commences with the disappearance of a crime podcaster and dives later on into a sordid cold case from twenty years ago of some teens being missing and others massacred. however, i loved the contrast between the wicked events of the storyline and Mercy and Truman's beautiful bond and the depiction of the found family they formed with Kylie and Ollie.
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many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an arc in exchange for an honest review.
”she lived in the here and now. with a man who made her pulse quicken every time she looked at him. How did I get so lucky?”
i could not put it down. this book engulfed me in its twisted and confusing plot, from the very first gory scene to the last jaw-dropping revelations. i read it in one sitting. It was the manner in which every parcelle of the narrative was sewed to another piece in some way, and it was all tangled in an absolutely brilliant fashion. the book commences with the disappearance of a crime podcaster and dives later on into a sordid cold case from twenty years ago of some teens being missing and others massacred. however, i loved the contrast between the wicked events of the storyline and Mercy and Truman's beautiful bond and the depiction of the found family they formed with Kylie and Ollie.
——
many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an arc in exchange for an honest review.
May 31, 2024
At the River was another fantastic installment in the Columbia River series where we follow Mercy and Truman as they investigate two similar crimes twenty years apart.
Twenty years ago five teenagers disappeared while camping and only two came back with just one surviving the ordeal. As the only survivor, Devin Bonner should have been able to tell the police what happened but Devin has never recovered his memories of that time. When a true-crime podcaster is found murdered at the same location the original teenagers were found at, the local police decide to bring in the FBI. FBI Special Agent Mercy Kilpatrick and her husband, Police Chief Truman Daly begin searching for connections between the two cases leading their family right into the path of a killer.
The mystery in At the River was an interesting one and I wondered how the two cases would be connected. The original case involved five friends who went camping and eventually two of them were left on a riverbank for dead while the other three were never found. The present case is about a true-crime podcaster, who was researching the old case, that was found dead on the same riverbank twenty years later. I enjoyed Mercy and Truman's investigation into both cases as it went in several directions I wasn't expecting. A number of suspects pop up throughout the book and although I was right about some of what happened, I was ultimately surprised by the identity of the killer.
The Mercy Kilpatrick series is my favorite series by this author so I was excited that we got another book following their characters. Mercy and Truman are adorable as a married couple, I love how much they get each other. Their family plays a big role in this book as Truman's adopted son Ollie is heavily involved in the plot. I liked that Ollie got a bigger role in this book as I feel like he hasn't gotten a lot of page time in the last few books. His relationship with Truman is fantastic and it's really showcased in At the River. I also enjoyed the connection he forms with Devin, the survivor of the original case, as it went in several directions I hadn't expected.
Overall At the River was a solid addition to the series and I'm looking forward to reading the next book, The Next Grave, when it releases later this year.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
Twenty years ago five teenagers disappeared while camping and only two came back with just one surviving the ordeal. As the only survivor, Devin Bonner should have been able to tell the police what happened but Devin has never recovered his memories of that time. When a true-crime podcaster is found murdered at the same location the original teenagers were found at, the local police decide to bring in the FBI. FBI Special Agent Mercy Kilpatrick and her husband, Police Chief Truman Daly begin searching for connections between the two cases leading their family right into the path of a killer.
The mystery in At the River was an interesting one and I wondered how the two cases would be connected. The original case involved five friends who went camping and eventually two of them were left on a riverbank for dead while the other three were never found. The present case is about a true-crime podcaster, who was researching the old case, that was found dead on the same riverbank twenty years later. I enjoyed Mercy and Truman's investigation into both cases as it went in several directions I wasn't expecting. A number of suspects pop up throughout the book and although I was right about some of what happened, I was ultimately surprised by the identity of the killer.
The Mercy Kilpatrick series is my favorite series by this author so I was excited that we got another book following their characters. Mercy and Truman are adorable as a married couple, I love how much they get each other. Their family plays a big role in this book as Truman's adopted son Ollie is heavily involved in the plot. I liked that Ollie got a bigger role in this book as I feel like he hasn't gotten a lot of page time in the last few books. His relationship with Truman is fantastic and it's really showcased in At the River. I also enjoyed the connection he forms with Devin, the survivor of the original case, as it went in several directions I hadn't expected.
Overall At the River was a solid addition to the series and I'm looking forward to reading the next book, The Next Grave, when it releases later this year.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
January 12, 2024
Previously I had read a few books in this series and enjoyed them, so I was happy to pick up this eighth book in the Mercy Kilpatrick series (the 5th in the Columbia River series). Funny how two series intersect! This is a cold case that gets brought back to life when a new murder happens with the same trademark characteristics as the victims from twenty years in the past.
Description:
Twenty years ago, five teenage campers disappeared. Two eventually turned up, bound and left for dead on the Columbia River’s rocky shore. Only Devin Bonner miraculously survived, but with no memories of what happened in the Oregon forest.
After decades, the cold case generates heat for FBI Special Agent Mercy Kilpatrick and her husband, Police Chief Truman Daly. They’re investigating the murder of a true-crime podcaster found at the river’s edge in the same location, and with the exact same manner of death. With the discovery, Devin’s nightmares return. His only real friend is Ollie Smith, Truman’s orphaned ward, whose own search for the truth sucks Ollie into a mystery far greater and more dangerous than anyone imagined.
Following a trail of fresh blood and an escalating series of murders, Mercy and Truman must work fast to unlock whatever traumas are buried in Devin’s memories before the secrets of the past claim another victim.
My Thoughts:
I enjoy the character FBI Special Agent Mercy Kilpatrick and her husband, Police Chief Truman Daly. I really liked how Ollie Smith, Truman's ward was involved in this story and his self-imposed role as protector. He's such a kind and thoughtful man. The mystery surrounding the new murders and the link to the past investigation was complex and I enjoyed following the search for the truth. The story moved at a good pace and kept my attention throughout - I was never bored. I recommend this to anyone who likes a good mystery and investigation.
Thanks to Montlake through Netgalley for an advance copy. Expected publication on February 13, 2024.
Description:
Twenty years ago, five teenage campers disappeared. Two eventually turned up, bound and left for dead on the Columbia River’s rocky shore. Only Devin Bonner miraculously survived, but with no memories of what happened in the Oregon forest.
After decades, the cold case generates heat for FBI Special Agent Mercy Kilpatrick and her husband, Police Chief Truman Daly. They’re investigating the murder of a true-crime podcaster found at the river’s edge in the same location, and with the exact same manner of death. With the discovery, Devin’s nightmares return. His only real friend is Ollie Smith, Truman’s orphaned ward, whose own search for the truth sucks Ollie into a mystery far greater and more dangerous than anyone imagined.
Following a trail of fresh blood and an escalating series of murders, Mercy and Truman must work fast to unlock whatever traumas are buried in Devin’s memories before the secrets of the past claim another victim.
My Thoughts:
I enjoy the character FBI Special Agent Mercy Kilpatrick and her husband, Police Chief Truman Daly. I really liked how Ollie Smith, Truman's ward was involved in this story and his self-imposed role as protector. He's such a kind and thoughtful man. The mystery surrounding the new murders and the link to the past investigation was complex and I enjoyed following the search for the truth. The story moved at a good pace and kept my attention throughout - I was never bored. I recommend this to anyone who likes a good mystery and investigation.
Thanks to Montlake through Netgalley for an advance copy. Expected publication on February 13, 2024.
February 1, 2024
This plot lacked a lot of the elements of the previous books. Mercy is not the kick-a** FBI agent as in the past books. The plot just didn't grab me, and I figured out most of it early on. I did enjoy how Mercy and Truman along with Ollie and Kailey have made a real family that loves and cares for each other.
Twenty years ago, five friends took a camping trip as a celebration of their high school graduation. one died, three disappeared never to be seen since and only one survived and he has no memory of what happened. When a podcaster turns up dead his research into the disappearance and murder is rekindled when he turns up on the bank of the Columbia River where the dead kid and the surviving kid were found. Devin Bonner is the survivor, but he has no memory of what happened.
Mercy and Detective Noelle Marshall have to dig into a twenty-year-old cold case to find the answer to their current murder. There is someone who will kill to make sure that the truth is never known.
My thanks to the Publisher and Author for providing a complimentary digital Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this novel via NetGalley. This is my fair, honest and personal review. All opinions are mine alon
Twenty years ago, five friends took a camping trip as a celebration of their high school graduation. one died, three disappeared never to be seen since and only one survived and he has no memory of what happened. When a podcaster turns up dead his research into the disappearance and murder is rekindled when he turns up on the bank of the Columbia River where the dead kid and the surviving kid were found. Devin Bonner is the survivor, but he has no memory of what happened.
Mercy and Detective Noelle Marshall have to dig into a twenty-year-old cold case to find the answer to their current murder. There is someone who will kill to make sure that the truth is never known.
My thanks to the Publisher and Author for providing a complimentary digital Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this novel via NetGalley. This is my fair, honest and personal review. All opinions are mine alon
January 25, 2025
FBI Special Agent Mercy Kilpatrick and her husband Police Chief Truman Daly are both pulled into the investigation of the murder of True Crime Podcaster Rob Newton. Rob's body was found on the riverbank, his arms bound, and his throat slashed. This reminds people of a murder twenty years ago. Two bodies were found in the exact same spot; both with their hands tied and their throats slashed. One boy died, but teenager Devon Bonner survived his injuries with no memory of what happened. While investigating Rob Newton's murder, Mercy and Truman learn that he was in town asking questions about the older murder and what happened to the victim's three friends who were camping with them and never seen again.
The fifth book in the Columbia River series is riveting. We have five teenagers who went camping twenty years ago. One was murdered, one was seriously injured but survived, and the other three just disappeared. Were they murdered or are they still alive? Did they witness what happened or were they the killers? Now we have a new murder which seems to be recreating the older one. Mercy, Truman, and Deschutes County Detective Noelle Marshall must investigate the old case in hopes of finding answers to what happened to Rob Newton.
I loved the mystery and how what happened twenty years ago was impacting the current case. I felt bad for Devon Bonner. He had no memory of what happened, yet people didn't believe him. His injuries from the attempted murder made him a bit of a recluse. He stayed at home, living with his mother. Ollie Smith, Truman's ward, befriends Devon and tries to help him deal with what is happening now. I loved this story of how these two guys bonded over Star Trek and video games.
I hope this author continues writing this series. Mercy and Truman are my favorites, but I do like it when she brings other characters into the series and writes their stories. I'm looking forward to reading more about Detective Noelle Marshall in the future. My rating: 5 Stars.
The fifth book in the Columbia River series is riveting. We have five teenagers who went camping twenty years ago. One was murdered, one was seriously injured but survived, and the other three just disappeared. Were they murdered or are they still alive? Did they witness what happened or were they the killers? Now we have a new murder which seems to be recreating the older one. Mercy, Truman, and Deschutes County Detective Noelle Marshall must investigate the old case in hopes of finding answers to what happened to Rob Newton.
I loved the mystery and how what happened twenty years ago was impacting the current case. I felt bad for Devon Bonner. He had no memory of what happened, yet people didn't believe him. His injuries from the attempted murder made him a bit of a recluse. He stayed at home, living with his mother. Ollie Smith, Truman's ward, befriends Devon and tries to help him deal with what is happening now. I loved this story of how these two guys bonded over Star Trek and video games.
I hope this author continues writing this series. Mercy and Truman are my favorites, but I do like it when she brings other characters into the series and writes their stories. I'm looking forward to reading more about Detective Noelle Marshall in the future. My rating: 5 Stars.
January 1, 2024
While trekking the backcountry, Ollie stumbles upon a woman and a crime scene. The husband is missing but blood points to a struggle. Mercy and Truman investigate and it quickly becomes apparent the case is linked to a 20 year mystery — three missing teenagers, one murder victim and one who miraculously survived despite having his throat cut.
The Columbia River series is very much an expansion of Mercy Kilpatrick. New characters are introduced who will appear in future stories while old characters continue to show up. Honestly, there aren't many books I read and reread but I will revisit these stories again. When the audiobook comes out I will buy it.
For lovers of crime fiction there are not too many who do it better than Kendra Elliot.
The Columbia River series is very much an expansion of Mercy Kilpatrick. New characters are introduced who will appear in future stories while old characters continue to show up. Honestly, there aren't many books I read and reread but I will revisit these stories again. When the audiobook comes out I will buy it.
For lovers of crime fiction there are not too many who do it better than Kendra Elliot.
February 3, 2024
This is book 5 in the “Columbia River” series. I did not read any others in this series and still really enjoyed this crime fiction. I never felt like I was missing anything. A podcaster is found brutally murdered at the river's edge in a small Oregon town. FBI agent Mercy Kilpatrickand her police chief husband, Truman Daly are investigating the case, when they find ties to a 20 year old case where five teens went missing, 2 were recovered and only one survived.
This was a quick, fast paced, suspenseful read. I enjoyed the plot and characters. I can't wait to read more in this series.
Out February 13.
Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
This was a quick, fast paced, suspenseful read. I enjoyed the plot and characters. I can't wait to read more in this series.
Out February 13.
Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
December 7, 2024
At The River is book 8 in the Mercy Kirkpatrick series by Kendra Elliot. I'm not sure how I've missed this series until now, but wow I'm glad I found it! The characters of FBI Special Agent Mercy Kirkpatrick and her husband, Police Chief Truman Daly are memorable and I want more! Truman and Mercy have a daughter, Kaylie and a "son", Ollie. Ollie is an orphan who saved Truman from sure death and the two became quite close. Ollie has lived with Mercy and Truman ever since. The family has never been happier.
Ollie is out snowmobiling when a woman comes running from the woods screaming. He stops to see what she's so upset about. The woman is upset because she says her husband is missing from their home and she found a lot of blood. Ollie puts a call in to Truman once he gets to a spot where he has a signal. Not long after Mercy is out on a call with local police investigating a shooting at a power plant. While there, the policeman gets a call about a body found by the river. Mercy offers to go with the man as he's not used to dead bodies in his small town.
The body found is a true crime podcaster and the woman's husband that waved down Ollie. He was investigating a case from 20 years ago where 5 teenagers who were camping disappeared. Two of them turned up in the exact location the podcaster's body was found. One was dead with his throat slashed and the other was left for dead with similar injuries that weren't as deep. Devin Bonner is the boy that survived. He now lives with his mother, rarely leaves the house, and can't remember anything from the night of the murder or his friends. He has no idea who killed his friend and no idea what happened to the other 3 teens.
When Mercy and Truman question Devin it's obvious he can't remember anything. After the visit to his home, Devin starts having nightmares with glimpses of memory coming through. When he wakes up in the morning he can't remember anything. He's so frustrated as he wants to help. Truman brings Ollie with him to see Devin when Devin's mother is attacked. Ollie and Devin hit it off even though the age difference is 20 years. They both love Star Trek, video games, and movies. Truman has never seen Devin so animated and happy as he is with Ollie. Ollie volunteers to stay with Devin while his mother recovers in the hospital.
Is Ollie safe with Devin? Is Devin telling the truth about not being able to remember anything? Why does Devin never seem to remember anyone from day to day? Is he that good an actor? When attacks continue it becomes clear that someone is trying to eliminate anyone that might know something from 20 years ago. The podcaster stirred up memories from years ago and contacted many people in town. Who did he contact that is now killing people? This book keeps you glued to the pages and you won't be able to put it down when you get closer to the truth. Will Mercy and Truman discover the truth before someone else dies? Will they be able to keep their family safe? I absolutely loved this book and can't wait for the next in the series! I rate At The River 5 stars with my very highest recommendation. I don't think you'll find a series with a family like this and they will suck you in wanting more! I'd like to thank NetGalley and Montlake/Amazon Publishing for an advanced copy of At The River in exchange for a fair review. #AtTheRiver
Ollie is out snowmobiling when a woman comes running from the woods screaming. He stops to see what she's so upset about. The woman is upset because she says her husband is missing from their home and she found a lot of blood. Ollie puts a call in to Truman once he gets to a spot where he has a signal. Not long after Mercy is out on a call with local police investigating a shooting at a power plant. While there, the policeman gets a call about a body found by the river. Mercy offers to go with the man as he's not used to dead bodies in his small town.
The body found is a true crime podcaster and the woman's husband that waved down Ollie. He was investigating a case from 20 years ago where 5 teenagers who were camping disappeared. Two of them turned up in the exact location the podcaster's body was found. One was dead with his throat slashed and the other was left for dead with similar injuries that weren't as deep. Devin Bonner is the boy that survived. He now lives with his mother, rarely leaves the house, and can't remember anything from the night of the murder or his friends. He has no idea who killed his friend and no idea what happened to the other 3 teens.
When Mercy and Truman question Devin it's obvious he can't remember anything. After the visit to his home, Devin starts having nightmares with glimpses of memory coming through. When he wakes up in the morning he can't remember anything. He's so frustrated as he wants to help. Truman brings Ollie with him to see Devin when Devin's mother is attacked. Ollie and Devin hit it off even though the age difference is 20 years. They both love Star Trek, video games, and movies. Truman has never seen Devin so animated and happy as he is with Ollie. Ollie volunteers to stay with Devin while his mother recovers in the hospital.
Is Ollie safe with Devin? Is Devin telling the truth about not being able to remember anything? Why does Devin never seem to remember anyone from day to day? Is he that good an actor? When attacks continue it becomes clear that someone is trying to eliminate anyone that might know something from 20 years ago. The podcaster stirred up memories from years ago and contacted many people in town. Who did he contact that is now killing people? This book keeps you glued to the pages and you won't be able to put it down when you get closer to the truth. Will Mercy and Truman discover the truth before someone else dies? Will they be able to keep their family safe? I absolutely loved this book and can't wait for the next in the series! I rate At The River 5 stars with my very highest recommendation. I don't think you'll find a series with a family like this and they will suck you in wanting more! I'd like to thank NetGalley and Montlake/Amazon Publishing for an advanced copy of At The River in exchange for a fair review. #AtTheRiver
February 19, 2024
4.5 stars. WHAT THE...?!?!?! 🤯
Just finished this book and am blown away by the ending. Mind boggling twist. I loved Mercy's series and was thrilled the author added this new book. Love Mercy/Truman & Ollie and how far they've all come through the series. Overall, I thought this story had a slower pace than most, and I wasn't sure how either Mercy or Truman's cases would eventually resolve. Things pick up with hyper speed toward the end. And oh, that ending, what a doozy! Another great read.
Just finished this book and am blown away by the ending. Mind boggling twist. I loved Mercy's series and was thrilled the author added this new book. Love Mercy/Truman & Ollie and how far they've all come through the series. Overall, I thought this story had a slower pace than most, and I wasn't sure how either Mercy or Truman's cases would eventually resolve. Things pick up with hyper speed toward the end. And oh, that ending, what a doozy! Another great read.
March 2, 2024
Another very good installment in this series. I am getting to know and like the main characters very much and looking forward to the next installment. The plot although somewhat contrived, was riveting.
February 16, 2024
Each venture into Kendra Elliot’s books leaves me well and truly satisfied. We plunge into a dark murder and secrets with plenty of seemingly stray events, witnesses, and evidence only to have my big gasp of appreciation for how it all ties together like a well-crafted puzzle.
At the River is the fifth of the Columbia River series and features mostly characters from the Mercy Kilpatrick world placing it eighth in that series. The Columbia River series tends to weave in and out of several of the author’s series set in that region with engaging follow ups with characters who were side characters in previous series. In this case, fans of Mercy and the gang are given a treat to see Mercy working cases with both Truman and familiar sheriff’s deputy detective, Noelle Marshall who appeared in the previous book. The series is set in the rural regions of central Oregon and bring that area vividly to life from the mountain and forests to the interesting populations of small towns and out in the wilder areas.
I enjoyed this book that takes place just before Mercy and Truman’s first year anniversary. Truman is given expert advice not to downplay the anniversary even if that is what he and Mercy agreed on and he is also contemplating how and when to speak to Ollie about his desire to adopt him as his son even though Ollie is on the eve of his twentieth birthday. Truman and Ollie have been working on filling in the blanks about Ollie’s past regarding his parents since Ollie was little when sent to live with his grandparents deep in the woods where they died without telling him much.
Meanwhile, Mercy is pursuing a new brand of domestic terrorists who like to shoot up energy sub-stations so whole communities are without power- and the miscreants hope will cause them to grow dissatisfied with organized government. But, she is interrupted to come with the local sheriff to the riverbank where a body is found- a body who not only matches the description of a missing man from her home county that Truman and Ollie came across the case, but the man- a true crimes podcaster- is arranged in the same way a previous unsolved case involving five teens from twenty years before- one teen was found dead in that pose, one was found nearly dead in the same pose, and the other three remain missing to this day.
I loved following along as Mercy and Noelle worked the case. The police investigative procedural side is well written and fascinating, but is woven well right into the story so it doesn’t miss a beat. Truman helps where he is needed and Ollie gets a large role in this one as he befriends a man connected to the case and in danger from people who don’t want that old case or this new one to be solved.
I can’t start one of these books without being compelled to read on and never want to stop and At the River was no exception. When I hit a certain point and the reveals started coming and the action tightened up, I couldn’t stop until the satisfying stunning ending.
Another triumph and I was left sad it was over and hoping deep down that more will come from the Mercy Kilpatrick world- I love it so much. Those who enjoy romantic suspense that balances good character and relationship development with strong police procedural murder mystery should jump in with any of the author’s series (ahem, I suggest the Mercy Kilpatrick) and then enjoy the Columbia River books.
I rec'd an eARC via NetGalley to read in exchange for an honest review.
My full review will post at That's What I'm Talking About on Feb 8, 2024.
At the River is the fifth of the Columbia River series and features mostly characters from the Mercy Kilpatrick world placing it eighth in that series. The Columbia River series tends to weave in and out of several of the author’s series set in that region with engaging follow ups with characters who were side characters in previous series. In this case, fans of Mercy and the gang are given a treat to see Mercy working cases with both Truman and familiar sheriff’s deputy detective, Noelle Marshall who appeared in the previous book. The series is set in the rural regions of central Oregon and bring that area vividly to life from the mountain and forests to the interesting populations of small towns and out in the wilder areas.
I enjoyed this book that takes place just before Mercy and Truman’s first year anniversary. Truman is given expert advice not to downplay the anniversary even if that is what he and Mercy agreed on and he is also contemplating how and when to speak to Ollie about his desire to adopt him as his son even though Ollie is on the eve of his twentieth birthday. Truman and Ollie have been working on filling in the blanks about Ollie’s past regarding his parents since Ollie was little when sent to live with his grandparents deep in the woods where they died without telling him much.
Meanwhile, Mercy is pursuing a new brand of domestic terrorists who like to shoot up energy sub-stations so whole communities are without power- and the miscreants hope will cause them to grow dissatisfied with organized government. But, she is interrupted to come with the local sheriff to the riverbank where a body is found- a body who not only matches the description of a missing man from her home county that Truman and Ollie came across the case, but the man- a true crimes podcaster- is arranged in the same way a previous unsolved case involving five teens from twenty years before- one teen was found dead in that pose, one was found nearly dead in the same pose, and the other three remain missing to this day.
I loved following along as Mercy and Noelle worked the case. The police investigative procedural side is well written and fascinating, but is woven well right into the story so it doesn’t miss a beat. Truman helps where he is needed and Ollie gets a large role in this one as he befriends a man connected to the case and in danger from people who don’t want that old case or this new one to be solved.
I can’t start one of these books without being compelled to read on and never want to stop and At the River was no exception. When I hit a certain point and the reveals started coming and the action tightened up, I couldn’t stop until the satisfying stunning ending.
Another triumph and I was left sad it was over and hoping deep down that more will come from the Mercy Kilpatrick world- I love it so much. Those who enjoy romantic suspense that balances good character and relationship development with strong police procedural murder mystery should jump in with any of the author’s series (ahem, I suggest the Mercy Kilpatrick) and then enjoy the Columbia River books.
I rec'd an eARC via NetGalley to read in exchange for an honest review.
My full review will post at That's What I'm Talking About on Feb 8, 2024.
December 7, 2023
John Jacobs is one of many true-crime bloggers and vloggers who spend their days researching the cold cases lining the shelves of police departments everywhere. Twenty years ago, five teenagers disappeared in the Colombia River area, and Jacobs is determined to finally discover what happened. Three of the teens haven't been seen since, while one died, and one miraculously survived.
The new investigation doesn't go quite according to plan, and soon after arriving in the area, John Jacobs is of definite interest to FBI Agent Mercy Kilpatrick and her husband Police Chief Truman Daly. With the one survivor confronted by his past once again and a string of apparently related crimes to solve, will what happened finally be revealed, or will those with the most to lose prevail?
This is book five in the Colombia River series and concentrates on one of my favourite fictional couples as they investigate similar cases two decades apart as well as wrestling with a family problem which could change their home life forever. I thoroughly enjoyed this until the final chapter, when a secondary plot line became almost farcical when it could, instead, have provided a fitting end to what had, until then, been a brilliant page turner.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers Montlake, but the opinions expressed are my own. I am sad this didn't work for me, but I will definitely be on the lookout for book six at the end of the year.
The new investigation doesn't go quite according to plan, and soon after arriving in the area, John Jacobs is of definite interest to FBI Agent Mercy Kilpatrick and her husband Police Chief Truman Daly. With the one survivor confronted by his past once again and a string of apparently related crimes to solve, will what happened finally be revealed, or will those with the most to lose prevail?
This is book five in the Colombia River series and concentrates on one of my favourite fictional couples as they investigate similar cases two decades apart as well as wrestling with a family problem which could change their home life forever. I thoroughly enjoyed this until the final chapter, when a secondary plot line became almost farcical when it could, instead, have provided a fitting end to what had, until then, been a brilliant page turner.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers Montlake, but the opinions expressed are my own. I am sad this didn't work for me, but I will definitely be on the lookout for book six at the end of the year.
February 19, 2024
There was so much going on in this one, both in the present and in the past. What was interesting was how it all connected, why and how many people were touched by everything. It really hit in the last scenes, but I think what was decided was perfect for everyone involved.
It was interesting to see Mercy work her case, for Truman to work his and then how the quickly connected. They all quickly realized that the past case came into play, which brought them to Devin. Devin, who I felt so sorry for, what he had been through and how he had been living the last 20 years.
Towards the end when things came to a head, I was worried for everyone, it didn't look good for them. But thankfully Truman showed up in time and helped save the say for part, while Mercy was working on a different part and doing what she needed to.
The future looks bright now for Devin, in so many ways. The past firmly in the past and he now has people by his side and the community welcoming him. If nothing else, that is a great thing!
It was interesting to see Mercy work her case, for Truman to work his and then how the quickly connected. They all quickly realized that the past case came into play, which brought them to Devin. Devin, who I felt so sorry for, what he had been through and how he had been living the last 20 years.
Towards the end when things came to a head, I was worried for everyone, it didn't look good for them. But thankfully Truman showed up in time and helped save the say for part, while Mercy was working on a different part and doing what she needed to.
The future looks bright now for Devin, in so many ways. The past firmly in the past and he now has people by his side and the community welcoming him. If nothing else, that is a great thing!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 5, 2024
Too much Ollie and didn’t like the ending
February 20, 2024
At The River is book 8 in the Mercy Kirkpatrick series by Kendra Elliot. I'm not sure how I've missed this series until now, but wow I'm glad I found it! The characters of FBI Special Agent Mercy Kirkpatrick and her husband, Police Chief Truman Daly are memorable and I want more! Truman and Mercy have a daughter, Kaylie and a "son", Ollie. Ollie is an orphan who saved Truman from sure death and the two became quite close. Ollie has lived with Mercy and Truman ever since. The family has never been happier.
Ollie is out snowmobiling when a woman comes running from the woods screaming. He stops to see what she's so upset about. The woman is upset because she says her husband is missing from their home and she found a lot of blood. Ollie puts a call in to Truman once he gets to a spot where he has a signal. Not long after Mercy is out on a call with local police investigating a shooting at a power plant. While there, the policeman gets a call about a body found by the river. Mercy offers to go with the man as he's not used to dead bodies in his small town.
The body found is a true crime podcaster and the woman's husband that waved down Ollie. He was investigating a case from 20 years ago where 5 teenagers who were camping disappeared. Two of them turned up in the exact location the podcaster's body was found. One was dead with his throat slashed and the other was left for dead with similar injuries that weren't as deep. Devin Bonner is the boy that survived. He now lives with his mother, rarely leaves the house, and can't remember anything from the night of the murder or his friends. He has no idea who killed his friend and no idea what happened to the other 3 teens.
When Mercy and Truman question Devin it's obvious he can't remember anything. After the visit to his home, Devin starts having nightmares with glimpses of memory coming through. When he wakes up in the morning he can't remember anything. He's so frustrated as he wants to help. Truman brings Ollie with him to see Devin when Devin's mother is attacked. Ollie and Devin hit it off even though the age difference is 20 years. They both love Star Trek, video games, and movies. Truman has never seen Devin so animated and happy as he is with Ollie. Ollie volunteers to stay with Devin while his mother recovers in the hospital.
Is Ollie safe with Devin? Is Devin telling the truth about not being able to remember anything? Why does Devin never seem to remember anyone from day to day? Is he that good an actor? When attacks continue it becomes clear that someone is trying to eliminate anyone that might know something from 20 years ago. The podcaster stirred up memories from years ago and contacted many people in town. Who did he contact that is now killing people? This book keeps you glued to the pages and you won't be able to put it down when you get closer to the truth. Will Mercy and Truman discover the truth before someone else dies? Will they be able to keep their family safe? I absolutely loved this book and can't wait for the next in the series! I rate At The River 5 stars with my very highest recommendation. I don't think you'll find a series with a family like this and they will suck you in wanting more! I'd like to thank NetGalley and Montlake/Amazon Publishing for an advanced copy of At The River in exchange for a fair review. #AtTheRiver
Ollie is out snowmobiling when a woman comes running from the woods screaming. He stops to see what she's so upset about. The woman is upset because she says her husband is missing from their home and she found a lot of blood. Ollie puts a call in to Truman once he gets to a spot where he has a signal. Not long after Mercy is out on a call with local police investigating a shooting at a power plant. While there, the policeman gets a call about a body found by the river. Mercy offers to go with the man as he's not used to dead bodies in his small town.
The body found is a true crime podcaster and the woman's husband that waved down Ollie. He was investigating a case from 20 years ago where 5 teenagers who were camping disappeared. Two of them turned up in the exact location the podcaster's body was found. One was dead with his throat slashed and the other was left for dead with similar injuries that weren't as deep. Devin Bonner is the boy that survived. He now lives with his mother, rarely leaves the house, and can't remember anything from the night of the murder or his friends. He has no idea who killed his friend and no idea what happened to the other 3 teens.
When Mercy and Truman question Devin it's obvious he can't remember anything. After the visit to his home, Devin starts having nightmares with glimpses of memory coming through. When he wakes up in the morning he can't remember anything. He's so frustrated as he wants to help. Truman brings Ollie with him to see Devin when Devin's mother is attacked. Ollie and Devin hit it off even though the age difference is 20 years. They both love Star Trek, video games, and movies. Truman has never seen Devin so animated and happy as he is with Ollie. Ollie volunteers to stay with Devin while his mother recovers in the hospital.
Is Ollie safe with Devin? Is Devin telling the truth about not being able to remember anything? Why does Devin never seem to remember anyone from day to day? Is he that good an actor? When attacks continue it becomes clear that someone is trying to eliminate anyone that might know something from 20 years ago. The podcaster stirred up memories from years ago and contacted many people in town. Who did he contact that is now killing people? This book keeps you glued to the pages and you won't be able to put it down when you get closer to the truth. Will Mercy and Truman discover the truth before someone else dies? Will they be able to keep their family safe? I absolutely loved this book and can't wait for the next in the series! I rate At The River 5 stars with my very highest recommendation. I don't think you'll find a series with a family like this and they will suck you in wanting more! I'd like to thank NetGalley and Montlake/Amazon Publishing for an advanced copy of At The River in exchange for a fair review. #AtTheRiver
March 21, 2024
I have loved every book in this Columbia River series. Even though there’s a lot of time between each release, it really pays off with the quality of the story. It always gives me something to look forward to.
Kendra Elliot has a tendency to use past characters in her books, but it never feels like you’re dropped into the middle of something. Each book I’ve read has been great as a standalone story. It does make me want to go back and read other books in her other series, but things are explained and told in a way that it’s okay that I haven’t read them yet.
This book follows a case of a murdered podcaster. But when it seems to be linked to the disappearance of 5 teenagers twenty years ago, the sheriff’s office and FBI Special Agent Mercy Kilpatrick have to figure out how everything ties together. The story was fast paced and I loved all the characters. I had my suspicions about what was going on, but I wasn’t completely correct. I like it when that happens.
I highly recommend this author for anyone who enjoys a good mystery/suspence with great characters and compelling plot lines. This series is a bonus for me since I’m from Oregon and I love the setting.
Kendra Elliot has a tendency to use past characters in her books, but it never feels like you’re dropped into the middle of something. Each book I’ve read has been great as a standalone story. It does make me want to go back and read other books in her other series, but things are explained and told in a way that it’s okay that I haven’t read them yet.
This book follows a case of a murdered podcaster. But when it seems to be linked to the disappearance of 5 teenagers twenty years ago, the sheriff’s office and FBI Special Agent Mercy Kilpatrick have to figure out how everything ties together. The story was fast paced and I loved all the characters. I had my suspicions about what was going on, but I wasn’t completely correct. I like it when that happens.
I highly recommend this author for anyone who enjoys a good mystery/suspence with great characters and compelling plot lines. This series is a bonus for me since I’m from Oregon and I love the setting.
November 14, 2023
I came across Kendra Elliot for a different series and stumbled onto Mercy Kilpatrick. Since then I am furiously making my way through all of her other books. Not knowing all of Mercy's back story yet, this book was fantastic about filling in the necessary parts without giving away too many spoilers. This in turn makes it a good book that can be read as a stand alone too, if that is what you want.
As for the story, I loved the fact that there was such an old mystery, set to be uncovered by the gang. The pace was fantastic and kept you guessing until the end.
Spoiler.......
I knew as soon as they explained how Mia died that Ollie was the baby. No baby bones uncovered with her. A fab twist and one that I am really happy about for Ollie's sake.
Loving the series, as I did all the others and Kendra Elliot can do no wrong in my opinion! Sign me up for the next one please!
Thanks to Netgalley and the author and publisher for a temporary copy in exchange for an honest review.
As for the story, I loved the fact that there was such an old mystery, set to be uncovered by the gang. The pace was fantastic and kept you guessing until the end.
Spoiler.......
I knew as soon as they explained how Mia died that Ollie was the baby. No baby bones uncovered with her. A fab twist and one that I am really happy about for Ollie's sake.
Loving the series, as I did all the others and Kendra Elliot can do no wrong in my opinion! Sign me up for the next one please!
Thanks to Netgalley and the author and publisher for a temporary copy in exchange for an honest review.
February 19, 2024
A copycat murder of a podcaster, with the body found at the same location as a previous murder raises suspicion for duo FBI Agent Mercy and Police Chief Truman. Absolutely loved following the mystery unravel in this tale. It was entertaining throughout and fast paced. I haven't read all the books in the series prior to this one but after reading this book, I think this could be a series I could really get into!
March 7, 2024
Fantastic! While this is a series, it could easily read as a stand alone. There is enough background information about the series characters that it doesn’t detract from the reader’s understanding and enjoyment.
August 21, 2024
It was interesting. The book kept me reading. I enjoyed the family dynamics.
April 16, 2025
3.75 stars. I found this one interesting and a little bit spooky. The big reveal, however, was not something I would’ve been able to guess, which always manages to irk me.
It was nice seeing many of the cast again plus some new characters too. The sweet ending was also a nice touch that melted my heart a bit.
It was nice seeing many of the cast again plus some new characters too. The sweet ending was also a nice touch that melted my heart a bit.
August 5, 2024
What a great book that helps us follow the great characters of Columbia River and Mercy Kilpatrick. This book bopped along and had me guessing but bam the ending was so unexpected and I really didn't know how to feel about it. I liked the pace and the characters as well. I know that it seems contrite how it ended but I do like a surprise twist in the end. I wonder what Kendra Elliot has up her sleeve next book.
March 9, 2025
Very slow moving.
November 17, 2023
I read the book really fast as it’s so easy to
read with the short chapters and interesting endings of each chapter. This kept me hooked and I ended up reading the book in just one sitting.
The story sounded simple when it started. As the story goes on, there’s so much to dig into and with the addition of new few characters the plot gets thicker and darker.
The writing keeps you thinking about what’s coming next throughout the read and I am glad to say that there wasn’t even a boring moment!
The story starts with Ollie meeting a woman out of nowhere in the snow who feels that her husband went missing that morning.
I do feel that the turn of events during the investigation is well planned and done well. The characters are convincing.
Moreover, what’s exceptional is the family bond between the main male leads.
I am eagerly waiting for the next instalment in the series.
Thank you, Montlake, for the advance reading copy.
read with the short chapters and interesting endings of each chapter. This kept me hooked and I ended up reading the book in just one sitting.
The story sounded simple when it started. As the story goes on, there’s so much to dig into and with the addition of new few characters the plot gets thicker and darker.
The writing keeps you thinking about what’s coming next throughout the read and I am glad to say that there wasn’t even a boring moment!
The story starts with Ollie meeting a woman out of nowhere in the snow who feels that her husband went missing that morning.
I do feel that the turn of events during the investigation is well planned and done well. The characters are convincing.
Moreover, what’s exceptional is the family bond between the main male leads.
I am eagerly waiting for the next instalment in the series.
Thank you, Montlake, for the advance reading copy.
April 26, 2024
Overall,I enjoyed this book. I have read the previous books in this series and like the characters. The story line of 5 missing kids from 20 years ago intertwined with murders happening currently was interesting. I felt the author went too far,at the end, with the twist involving Ollie and Devin…. It was not necessary and seemed contrived.
October 8, 2023
This is the 5th installment of Kendra Elliot’s “Columbia River” series (and there were more Mercy Kilpatrick books), but the author does such an excellent job of introducing her characters and their backgrounds each time, this can be read as a standalone. I came into this series midway and I never feel like I’m missing anything.
Mercy is an FBI agent based out of Bend, OR; her husband is the Police Chief of Eagle’s Nest (a central Oregon town set amid survivalists and prepares in the woods); and the third major character in this installment is Detective Noelle Marshall of the Deschutes County Sheriff’s department. Each has a different jurisdiction, but the author deftly interweaves incidents so the three find themselves working together (instead of against each as is common in legal thrillers).
There’s a family element, too — Ollie is a 19 year old who saved Truman from extremists a few books ago and has no family (his caretaker grandparents are deceased and his parents are unknown). Ollie and Truman have grown so close that Truman (who has been trying to trace Ollie’s family) that the police chief would like to adopt Ollie. We also have Kaylie, Mercy’s twenty-something niece and bakery owner, who also lives with the couple. Ollie and Kaylie are normally on the periphery, drifting in and out of the story as is normal in small town.
The narrative concerns seemingly coincidental crimes are occurring over the multiple jurisdictions of the trio of law enforcement officers. A podcaster investigating a cold case attack on 5 teenagers that occurred 20 years (3 disappeared, 1 died, 1 barely survived) is found dead where the lone living teen was found. The podcaster’s Jeep is abandoned on the traumatized survivor’s property and his mother is brutally stabbed. These all occur near where Mercy is investigating the vandalism of electrical substations.
I love Kendra Elliot’s police procedurals — there are definite good guys, some suspects who need to acquit themselves or are revealed to be guiltier, and a steady revelation of clues that lead to a conclusion. But there are also surprising twists and turns along the way. 5 stars!
Literary Pet Peeve Checklist:
Green Eyes (only 2% of the real world, yet it seems like 90% of all fictional females): YES Mercy has intense green eyes.
Horticultural Faux Pas (plants out of season or growing zones, like daffodils in autumn or bougainvillea in Alaska): NO The central Oregon forests are a definite character in these books, but since it’s nearly winter, nothing is out of place.
Thank you to Montlake and NetGalley for a free advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review!
Mercy is an FBI agent based out of Bend, OR; her husband is the Police Chief of Eagle’s Nest (a central Oregon town set amid survivalists and prepares in the woods); and the third major character in this installment is Detective Noelle Marshall of the Deschutes County Sheriff’s department. Each has a different jurisdiction, but the author deftly interweaves incidents so the three find themselves working together (instead of against each as is common in legal thrillers).
There’s a family element, too — Ollie is a 19 year old who saved Truman from extremists a few books ago and has no family (his caretaker grandparents are deceased and his parents are unknown). Ollie and Truman have grown so close that Truman (who has been trying to trace Ollie’s family) that the police chief would like to adopt Ollie. We also have Kaylie, Mercy’s twenty-something niece and bakery owner, who also lives with the couple. Ollie and Kaylie are normally on the periphery, drifting in and out of the story as is normal in small town.
The narrative concerns seemingly coincidental crimes are occurring over the multiple jurisdictions of the trio of law enforcement officers. A podcaster investigating a cold case attack on 5 teenagers that occurred 20 years (3 disappeared, 1 died, 1 barely survived) is found dead where the lone living teen was found. The podcaster’s Jeep is abandoned on the traumatized survivor’s property and his mother is brutally stabbed. These all occur near where Mercy is investigating the vandalism of electrical substations.
I love Kendra Elliot’s police procedurals — there are definite good guys, some suspects who need to acquit themselves or are revealed to be guiltier, and a steady revelation of clues that lead to a conclusion. But there are also surprising twists and turns along the way. 5 stars!
Literary Pet Peeve Checklist:
Green Eyes (only 2% of the real world, yet it seems like 90% of all fictional females): YES Mercy has intense green eyes.
Horticultural Faux Pas (plants out of season or growing zones, like daffodils in autumn or bougainvillea in Alaska): NO The central Oregon forests are a definite character in these books, but since it’s nearly winter, nothing is out of place.
Thank you to Montlake and NetGalley for a free advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review!
October 14, 2023
This is the 5th installment of Kendra Elliot’s “Columbia River” series (and there were more Mercy Kilpatrick books), but the author does such an excellent job of introducing her characters and their backgrounds each time, this can be read as a standalone. I came into this series midway and I never feel like I’m missing anything.
Mercy is an FBI agent based out of Bend, OR; her husband is the Police Chief of Eagle’s Nest (a central Oregon town set amid survivalists and prepares in the woods); and the third major character in this installment is Detective Noelle Marshall of the Deschutes County Sheriff’s department. Each has a different jurisdiction, but the author deftly interweaves incidents so the three find themselves working together (instead of against each as is common in legal thrillers).
There’s a family element, too — Ollie is a 19 year old who saved Truman from extremists a few books ago and has no family (his caretaker grandparents are deceased and his parents are unknown). Ollie and Truman have grown so close that Truman (who has been trying to trace Ollie’s family) that the police chief would like to adopt Ollie. We also have Kaylie, Mercy’s twenty-something niece and bakery owner, who also lives with the couple. Ollie and Kaylie are normally on the periphery, drifting in and out of the story as is normal in small town.
The narrative concerns seemingly coincidental crimes are occurring over the multiple jurisdictions of the trio of law enforcement officers. A podcaster investigating a cold case attack on 5 teenagers that occurred 20 years (3 disappeared, 1 died, 1 barely survived) is found dead where the lone living teen was found. The podcaster’s Jeep is abandoned on the traumatized survivor’s property and his mother is brutally stabbed. These all occur near where Mercy is investigating the vandalism of electrical substations.
I love Kendra Elliot’s police procedurals — there are definite good guys, some suspects who need to acquit themselves or are revealed to be guiltier, and a steady revelation of clues that lead to a conclusion. But there are also surprising twists and turns along the way. 5 stars!
Literary Pet Peeve Checklist:
Green Eyes (only 2% of the real world, yet it seems like 90% of all fictional females): YES Mercy has intense green eyes.
Horticultural Faux Pas (plants out of season or growing zones, like daffodils in autumn or bougainvillea in Alaska): NO The central Oregon forests are a definite character in these books, but since it’s nearly winter, nothing is out of place.
Thank you to Montlake and NetGalley for a free advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review!
Mercy is an FBI agent based out of Bend, OR; her husband is the Police Chief of Eagle’s Nest (a central Oregon town set amid survivalists and prepares in the woods); and the third major character in this installment is Detective Noelle Marshall of the Deschutes County Sheriff’s department. Each has a different jurisdiction, but the author deftly interweaves incidents so the three find themselves working together (instead of against each as is common in legal thrillers).
There’s a family element, too — Ollie is a 19 year old who saved Truman from extremists a few books ago and has no family (his caretaker grandparents are deceased and his parents are unknown). Ollie and Truman have grown so close that Truman (who has been trying to trace Ollie’s family) that the police chief would like to adopt Ollie. We also have Kaylie, Mercy’s twenty-something niece and bakery owner, who also lives with the couple. Ollie and Kaylie are normally on the periphery, drifting in and out of the story as is normal in small town.
The narrative concerns seemingly coincidental crimes are occurring over the multiple jurisdictions of the trio of law enforcement officers. A podcaster investigating a cold case attack on 5 teenagers that occurred 20 years (3 disappeared, 1 died, 1 barely survived) is found dead where the lone living teen was found. The podcaster’s Jeep is abandoned on the traumatized survivor’s property and his mother is brutally stabbed. These all occur near where Mercy is investigating the vandalism of electrical substations.
I love Kendra Elliot’s police procedurals — there are definite good guys, some suspects who need to acquit themselves or are revealed to be guiltier, and a steady revelation of clues that lead to a conclusion. But there are also surprising twists and turns along the way. 5 stars!
Literary Pet Peeve Checklist:
Green Eyes (only 2% of the real world, yet it seems like 90% of all fictional females): YES Mercy has intense green eyes.
Horticultural Faux Pas (plants out of season or growing zones, like daffodils in autumn or bougainvillea in Alaska): NO The central Oregon forests are a definite character in these books, but since it’s nearly winter, nothing is out of place.
Thank you to Montlake and NetGalley for a free advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review!
February 11, 2024
Wow! This book now lives rent-free in my head. I cannot get it out of my head now. I need more of Mercy Kilpatrick. This was beyond your average police procedural as it was more than just a police investigation. It was an extremely engrossing mystery with twists that you will give you whiplash. The secrets oozed from the pages as I frantically read and read until I finished it with a gaping jaw and sigh.
Two decades ago five teenagers went camping. By the end of the weekend, three had mysteriously disappeared never to be seen again. One was dead and one was left for dead. Somehow Devin Bonner survived that weekend, but he has no memories of what happened to him or his friends. Fast forward 20 years and a popular crime podcaster is now missing. Later than day, his body is found on the side of the river in the same fashion as the teenager was found 20 years ago. Someone wants the past to stay in the past. The similarities are too similar to ignore.
The mystery was intriguing and captivating. The characters are dynamic and relatable. FBI Agent Mercy Kilpatrick and her husband Police Chief Truman Daly along with other law enforcement work hard to solve this mystery. As they try to unlock the secrets that are hidden in Devin Bonner's mind, they realize this is mystery is more complex than they first realized.
I am literally awestruck at how good this book was. This was my first read by this author, but it will not be my last. I enjoyed the mystery and getting to know the characters, which were new to me. I think Truman Daly was my favorite character. He is true hero in blue, but he was a hero at home as well. His love and compassion for others was touching. He truly cared. If you enjoy a great mystery that will knock your socks off, you have found it in this one.
Thank you to Montlake and NetGalley for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Two decades ago five teenagers went camping. By the end of the weekend, three had mysteriously disappeared never to be seen again. One was dead and one was left for dead. Somehow Devin Bonner survived that weekend, but he has no memories of what happened to him or his friends. Fast forward 20 years and a popular crime podcaster is now missing. Later than day, his body is found on the side of the river in the same fashion as the teenager was found 20 years ago. Someone wants the past to stay in the past. The similarities are too similar to ignore.
The mystery was intriguing and captivating. The characters are dynamic and relatable. FBI Agent Mercy Kilpatrick and her husband Police Chief Truman Daly along with other law enforcement work hard to solve this mystery. As they try to unlock the secrets that are hidden in Devin Bonner's mind, they realize this is mystery is more complex than they first realized.
I am literally awestruck at how good this book was. This was my first read by this author, but it will not be my last. I enjoyed the mystery and getting to know the characters, which were new to me. I think Truman Daly was my favorite character. He is true hero in blue, but he was a hero at home as well. His love and compassion for others was touching. He truly cared. If you enjoy a great mystery that will knock your socks off, you have found it in this one.
Thank you to Montlake and NetGalley for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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