Editor's Summary

This mystery novel follows a young police officer as she investigates a series of murders in a small town in Alaska. The author does a decent job of creating tension and unease, but the plot is somewhat predictable. The romance is underdeveloped, and the author's attempts to create suspense often feel forced.

A Chilling Mystery in the Small Town of Juneau

This book caught my attention in a bookstore, and I had no prior knowledge of it except for a brief summary. The plot seemed intriguing, and I'm a fan of thrillers, so I decided to give it a try.

However, I was slightly disappointed to learn that the author, Helena Hahl, is a prolific writer with multiple books released in 2025. I had only read one of her books, 'The Heart of Summer,' which I stumbled upon in a similar bookstore.

I wasn't expecting much from this book, but I was pleasantly surprised by the nostalgic atmosphere and the author's attempt to create a sense of unease. The story begins with a prologue where two students discover a dead girl in a car, but what's striking is that her body is left in a way that makes it seem like she's still alive.

The main character, Lillian, is a young police officer living with her daughter in the small town of Juneau, Alaska. She's a widow and seems to be struggling to find meaning in her life. The story takes a dark turn as Lillian becomes embroiled in a series of murders that seem to be connected to her own life.

The author does a decent job of creating a sense of tension and unease, but the plot is somewhat predictable. The romance is also underdeveloped, and the author's attempts to create suspense often feel forced.

One of the strengths of the book is its portrayal of the small-town atmosphere, which is well-captured by the author's Russian background. The chapters written from the perspective of the victims are also effective in creating a sense of unease and mystery.

Overall, this is a decent mystery novel that's worth reading if you're a fan of the genre. However, it's not a standout title, and the author's writing style is not particularly memorable.

Featured FAQ

What is the main plot of the book?The main plot follows a series of murders in a small town in Alaska, and the investigation led by a young police officer named Lillian.

Who is the author of the book?The author of the book is Helena Hahl.

What is the setting of the book?The book is set in the small town of Juneau, Alaska.

What is the tone of the book?The tone of the book is dark and suspenseful, with a focus on creating tension and unease.

Is the book part of a series?No, this book is a standalone title.

What are the main themes of the book?The main themes of the book include murder, mystery, and the struggles of a young police officer.