Thank you to Netgally, the publishers, and E. J. Cochrane

When I requested this book I was unaware that it was apart of a series, one that requires you to read the previous books for this one to make sense. I am unable to read all the previous books along with this one before the publish date. Therefore, I will rate this a fair 3/5 stars and will adjust the rating and review when I am able to read all the books in the series along with this one.

Thank you Netgalley and the publishers for this ARC for an exchange for an honest review.

I enjoyed it.

"Hounded" by E.J. Cochrane is a thrilling and captivating novel that will keep readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. With a blend of mystery, suspense, and supernatural elements, this book delivers a unique and engaging reading experience.

The story revolves around the life of the protagonist, who finds herself being relentlessly pursued by an unknown and sinister force. As the title suggests, she is truly hounded, constantly on the run and facing numerous obstacles along the way. The author skillfully weaves together a complex web of secrets, lies, and unexpected twists, making it difficult to predict the outcome.

One of the standout aspects of "Hounded" is the well-developed characters. The protagonist is a strong and determined individual who must rely on her own wits and instincts to survive. Her vulnerabilities and fears are portrayed in a relatable manner, making her a character readers will root for. The supporting cast is equally well-crafted, each with their own motivations and hidden agendas, adding depth and complexity to the story.

E.J. Cochrane's writing style is immersive and descriptive, effortlessly transporting readers into the story's atmospheric settings. The pacing is excellently maintained, with the right balance of action-packed sequences and quieter moments that allow for character development and reflection. The author's ability to create tension and build suspense is commendable, as readers will find themselves eagerly turning the pages to uncover the truth behind the protagonist's plight.

Furthermore, the supernatural elements in the book are seamlessly integrated into the narrative. The author introduces a mystical and otherworldly dimension, blending it with the gritty reality of the protagonist's struggles. This fusion adds an additional layer of intrigue and intrigue, making "Hounded" a unique and memorable read.

If there's one small critique, it's that some readers may find the resolution slightly rushed or wanting more closure. However, this can also be seen as a deliberate choice to leave room for interpretation and speculation, allowing readers to contemplate the events long after finishing the book.

In conclusion, "Hounded" is a captivating and fast-paced novel that will keep readers hooked until the very end. E.J. Cochrane's storytelling prowess shines through, offering a thrilling blend of mystery and supernatural elements. With its well-drawn characters, atmospheric settings, and unpredictable twists, this book is a must-read for fans of the genre.

Certainly a good little mystery, full of suspense, and good characters, with an interesting storyline but a little fast-paced for me. Hounded is the 3rd time we see Maddie in the series. The plot is a “who’s done it” style storyline, similar to Agartha Christie's books.

I've given Hounded by E.J Cochrane a 3.2 out of 5

Although this book sounded like a cosy murder/mystery, I found it quite lackluster. I couldn't really connect with any of the characters so I wasn't overly interested in who the killer turned out to be.

I love a good murder mystery, especially when they are written in the cozy mystery style, such as the famous Agatha Christie mysteries. Hounded by E.J. Cochrane seemed to be exactly the type of mystery I was looking for. Unfortunately, I was a bit disappointed in the book.

The premise of the story is actually really good. Matilda (Maddie) Smithwick is whisked off to a remote island off the coast of Maine by her best friend Dottie for a weekend birthday party that Dottie is giving herself. It sounds like a relaxing weekend until one of the guests is found murdered. Then the island’s remoteness becomes a problem since there is no cell phone coverage, no internet, and with a coming storm, no way off the island for Maddie, Dottie and her other guests. As the body count rises, Maddie is “volunteered” to find the killer, hopefully before they are all murdered.

The remote island was a great setting for the tale and well-described. I can easily visualize this setting from the author’s words.
My problem with the novel mostly involved the interactions between the characters and the overly flippant dialogue. I think that was the biggest problem I had with the story. It kept me from seeing much of a connection between the characters, even Maddie’s best friend Dottie.

Hounded is the third book in the ‘Matilda Smithwick Mystery Series’, but it can easily be read as a standalone novel. While I had a few problems with the tale, those of you who love this type of mystery might enjoy the story. I’m giving the book three and a half stars.

I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bella Books for an honest review.

While I enjoyed this book, it's not that easy to review. Yes it was a good story but with the many characters, murders and set changes I can’t even begin to give this book the rating it deserves. A very enjoyable read.
ARC via NetGalley/ Bella Books

I liked the cover and the blurb was interesting. There's a lot of potential but the story didn't keep my attention and fell flat.
Not my cup of tea
Many thanks to the publisher for this arc, all opinions are mine

Hounded is the third novel in the Matilda Smithwick Mystery Series. Each novel can easily be read as a standalone story.

Maddie is a dog walker by trade, who always finds herself knee deep in dead bodies. This time her best friend Dottie persuades Maddie to spend a restful weekend on a secluded island off the coast of Maine. As guests and the hired help start turning up dead, Maddie is pushed into the role of detective to keep the remaining visitors safe and sound.

There is a striking similarity to Agatha Christie’s novel, And Then There Were None by the remote setting and quickly dwindling number of characters. While Christie’s novel is one of suspense, Cochran heads in the direction of farce and flippant dialogue. For me, the dialogue fell short of its mark. At times it was repetitive and the humour it was seeking was just not found.

Dottie’s assistant Carlisle is a character I would definitely want to see more of in future books. She is smart and unaffected by those around her. Carlisle is a mystery unto herself which begs to be explored.

As a cozy mystery Hounded didn’t meet my expectations yet it held my interest enough to finish the novel. If you are looking for light entertainment Hounded would be for you.

I received a free advance review copy from Bella Books through NetGalley. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

I usually enjoy a good LGBT crime book but this one is a not for me. Several times I had to reread a paragraph to work out who was speaking and what they were talking about. The characters aren't that likeable or memorable. The author's intentions were clear, the execution disappointing, others may enjoy it though.

With thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I love cozy mysteries but this one misses the mark for me. Maddie is whisked away by her best friend Dottie to a private island off the coast of Maine. Others are invited for the birthday celebration that Dottie is throwing for herself. When the ultra wealthy owner of the house ends up dead Dottie asks Maddie to investigate.

They are cut off from the mainland until a helicopter arrives in a few days. It is reminiscent of Agatha Christie’s “And Then There Were None”. As a few more bodies appear you’d think there would be tension with a killer(s) on the loose. But instead these suspects are delivering zingers. And Dottie insists on a five course meal being prepared and continuing on with a the fashion event she planned. I’m guessing the characters are supposed to be droll and entertaining. These characters are not endearing or likable. It made me wish a few more could be eliminated.

This is the third book in the Matilda Smithwick Mystery series, but the first I’ve read. I think I was expecting more mystery and less farce. Thank you NetGalley and Bella Books for the ARC in exchange for a review. (2.5 Stars)

This is my first book by this author. While the story of a murder on a remote island in Maine was quite intriguing to me, the execution feel flat. I simply could not engage with the pompous nature of some of the characters. Perhaps others might enjoy this book though. 2.5 stars

I received an ARC from NetGalkey and Bella Books in exchange for an honest review.

This is the first book I've read by this author. Hounded is the third book in the series, and it features Maddie, a dog walker, and her friend, Dottie.
Dottie organized a birthday celebration for herself and when a murderer dares spoil her weekend, she insists Maddy investigate.
While there was nothing wrong with the book, there was nothing great about it either. I didn't really like the characters, Dottie seems pushy and entitled and she irritated me throughout the book.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of the book.
#Hounded #NetGalley