What a gripping read! The mystery definitely kept me hooked, I was on the edge of my seat trying to figure out who the West Campus Rapsit was! I also loved the romantic elements between our two leads. I also really enjoyed the narration of the audiobook! It definitely hightened the tension and mystery!

3⭐⭐⭐
I Recommend this book if you love police procedural with a bit of romance; detective/serial killer books without the gruesome details.
I instantly fell in love with the story as soon as i started.
The narrator was ok, she kept my attention most part of the book.
I think what put me off a bit was the romance aspect of the story. I feel the story was just great without it, or simply the romance felt forced and rushed. I wasnt feeling the connection betwen them, I skipped certain parts of the book.
I was intrigued by this whole genealogy that was explained in the book.
The story ok until it felt a bit flat. But it's a quick read, so its ok.

Thanks to the publisher, author and NetGalley for this Audio Copy.
The decision to listen to and review this book was entirely my own.

The Last Close Call is a police procedural with suspense and a touch of romance. This book uses forensic genealogy to track down a serial rapist. I had seen this used on TV shows, but this was the first time I had seen it in a book. Rowan Healy is an extremely successful forensic genealogist who was burned out from the violence of police work. She now works with people searching for family, specifically adopted persons and is fulfilled in her new career. Austin Detective Jack Burner is at a dead-end on a brutal rape and assault case that is way to similar to a cold case that has haunted him for several years. That suspect, known as the West Campus Rapist, was never caught, but Jack is sure that he is back, and is escalating to murder. Frustrated, and not knowing what to do next, he approaches Rowan, begging for her help. If she can find someone through Genealogy based on DNA, it might give them direction to tracking down this culprit before someone else dies. She refuses, but eventually he is able to convince her to help. Rowan's unique research provides clues to a potential suspect's identity, but they'll need his DNA to close the case. Meanwhile, Rowan and Jack are fighting a mutual attraction neither wants to pursue for their own reasons. Will they solve this case and decide whether a relationship would work between them?

With more and more companies analyzing DNA these days, there are lots of profiles out in the public. Using these DNA banks, and skills with genealogy, it is completely plausible and possible to do this type of search. I found it interesting, but also a bit scary to be able to find relatives and matches so easily. Laura Griffin weaves this into an intriguing plot, with relatable and realistic characters in a well-written, fast moving plotline. The story drew me in from the start and had many suspenseful moments as they raced to identify potential suspects, find them, and verify if they are a viable suspect. Once they have a person of interest, they still have to find them before there is another attack. With that dangerous storyline, the romance of Rowan and Jack plays out with underlying chemistry bubbling to the surface. They had to fight the sceptics who felt Jack was blinded by his feelings and not following good police work, but as the reader, I was hoping they would be able to work past their own issues and have a meaningful relationship. If you enjoy an intriguing police procedural with something a bit different (genealogy) as a tool, romantic suspense and a bit of a dark storyline, then I recommend you pick up The Last Close Call by Laura Griffin, I don't think you will be disappointed.

Many thanks to Netgalley, Dreamscape Media and the author for the ALC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Nothing like a thriller to get you out of a slump!

Rowan Healy is a forensic genealogist who works as a consultant for hire for investigators. Detective Jack Bruner is in search of a violent serial rapist who seems to be getting more and more courageous. Jack tracks down Rowan to enlist her to help him with this case, little does she know this will change her life forever.

The audiobook narrator was absolutely brilliant and created the atmosphere of the book really well.
The caricatures of all the characters, their interactions and growth was absolutely brilliant to read and follow. The book was incredibly fast paced, yet not fast enough to be able to get to the part where the bad guy is caught. I will recommend this book to anyone looking for a quick thriller listen.

TW: Violence, Sexual assault, Sexual violence, Blood, Gore

I had such a fantastic time reading this book! The mystery sounded really great dealing with DNA and investigation and I really enjoyed seeing Rowan and Jack work together to solve this case. It was such a thrilling read! Plus their romance was so entertaining!

For some reason, even though I read the synopsis, I was thinking that her work was in the more DNA side of things and gaining a picture of the suspect through that, not through genealogy. Which was pretty cool, being able to make a family tree and see where the suspect would fit the best.

That she gets sucked back into the world of helping solve crimes, that she worked hard to leave, since she put her all into it, I mean, I know why she left, and why she came back. Because she is able to help solve crimes, by finding the suspects, and the sooner they have that, the less likely that they'll be able to cause more harm.

I do wish we could've had more of a close, or more details about the closing of the, as it turns out, cases. We got plenty of the personal close, which I loved, I just wish we got more of the fates of the bad guys, since they caused such harm.

This was such a great read, and I'm so glad that I did!

The Last Close Call frustrated me. I thought I would be reading a crime novel that used genetic testing to help solve the case, but instead, I got a romantic suspense novel between a genealogist and a detective. The dialogue was cheesy, the plot was more focused on the budding romance than the solving of the case itself, and I genuinely did not enjoy this novel.
(PUB DATE: AVAILABLE NOW)
(I received an audio recording of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed above are my own.)

I listened to the audiobook and enjoyed it. The book had an interesting premise. It was fast placed and exciting.

Thanks to netgalley for the audiobook.

I didn't really write many notes down when I read this book. Usually, that means I was too invested in the story to care. I remember enjoying the story and really liking our two main characters. I didn't like how everyone kept trying to get Rowan to rejoin helping the police force after she 'retired' but I like how it all came together in the end.

There is a string of women getting raped. This man breaks into their house when they least expect it. The women have nothing in common. Jack has recruited Rowan, who specializes in genealogy. The pair are trying to find the suspect through DNA. He is not in any system that they have searched
More and more women are being assaulted. Are they ever going to catch this guy. How can they when he is like a ghost and they still have yet to find out who he is

“A talented genetic analyst and a detective who’s haunted by an elusive cold case team up in the new standalone romantic suspense.”

This book, with its interesting premise, several points of view, and a satisfying bonus mystery made for a worthwhile read.

I did, however, wish there was way more depth to the main character’s profession. We got very little information about the science and technique behind Forensic Genealogy, and I was disappointed. Open door scenes are great and all, but I GIMME ALL THE SCIENCE.

Also: I was really put off by the MMC’s “Time is of the essence, but also I’m too manly to take anyone’s help” bullshit. Smash the patriarchy, my dude. It’s hurting you and your cases.

This is my third by this author and I’m looking forward to her next work.

Thanks to NetGalley, Berkley, and Dreamscape Media for this tense ARC.

How had I not heard of Laura Griffin before? She has published more than 30 books, and I don’t think I have seen a review of any of her books.

The Last Close Call follows a genetic analysis and a detective working on a cold case. This standalone romantic suspense was very interesting to read, and it keep me guessing the entire time. I loved the use of the genetic analysis to bring this story together. I love suspense novels that take you down the path of discovering the perpetrator from beginning to end.

I listened to the audiobook and the narrator did an excellent job of bringing the characters to life.

The Last Close Call definitely not be my last Griffin book!

⚠️TW- There are several. DM me for more information. ⚠️

This was an enjoyable quick read. It didn't take me by surprise but I enjoyed it just the same. Not sure that I would but it though

Laura Griffin's "The Last Close Call" is an exhilarating ride through suspense and intrigue, showcasing the author's mastery in crafting gripping thrillers. The story unfolds with relentless momentum, weaving a tapestry of danger, romance, and unrelenting tension. Griffin's characters are skillfully developed, with a perfect blend of vulnerability and strength, drawing readers into their world. The meticulous attention to detail adds authenticity to the plot, making it a true page-turner. As the stakes rise, the narrative keeps you on the edge of your seat, culminating in a satisfying and unexpected conclusion. "The Last Close Call" is a must-read for fans of heart-pounding suspense, solidifying Laura Griffin's reputation as a top-tier thriller writer.

Forensic genealogist Rowan Healy helped law enforcement trace the family trees of violent criminals who have eluded justice for years, but the pressure and horrific nature of the crimes made her burn out. Now helping families reunite using DNA, will a call from an investigator bring Rowan back into the fold?

Austin detective Jack Bruner has spent his career successfully tracking down vicious criminals, but the West Campus Rapist is one who has gotten away with heinous crimes time and time again. Will Jack be able to convince Rowan to help?

As the pair search for the man that has eluded law enforcement for so long, will they be able to solve the mystery before he kills his next victim?

Overall, the narration of the book was interesting and helped to keep me involved in the story. The book was a little repetitive and I might not have finished if I had read the book myself. As a fan of mystery thrillers, I wanted to be more surprised as to the identity of the killer and the process in which he was located. Readers who like mystery thrillers and romantic suspense might like The Last Close Call.

Disclaimer: I was given an Advanced Audio Copy of this book by NetGalley and the publisher. The decision to listen to and review this book was entirely my own.

The Last Close Call was another great read by Laura Griffin. Rowan Healy is a forensic genealogist who helps investigators trace the family trees of violent criminals that have eluded justice for years. The pressure of these cases has left her burned out and she has shifted her focus to helping adoptees find their bilogical parents. Jack Bruner is an Austin detective that has sucessfully tracked down vicious criminals. The most notable exception is the West Campus Rapist who has never been identified. The latest two victims come to light while the offender is escalating his violent behavior. He only stands a chance of finding the offender with Rowan's help. Rowan agrees to help and uses her DNA research to shed light on the criminal's background. I enjoyed reading this book and cant wait to read more by the author.

Fast paced and interesting. The use of forensic genealogy was a great addition as I think more of that will be used to solve crime in the future. I look forward to continuing this series.

Thank you to NetGalley and the author for my advance copy of this audiobook

I really liked the narration and the story. The story itself was something I hadnt read/listened to before and it really interested me this take on police procedurals and it certainly delivered.

I was given a free copy by netgalley and the publishers but the review is entirely my own.

I enjoyed the storyline of a forensic geneologist teaming up with a detective to track down a serial rapist. This power couple combo was a new one and I liked it.
As for the story itself, I think the book needed to decide if it was a mystery or a romance because each storyline felt underdeveloped. As a complete mystery romance, things were rushed, much like most romance novels are. Character development and levels of suspense were quick. The wrapping up of the geneology story line at the end had me wondering if I missed something. However, the characters were very likeable and I enjoyed this book as something I could just sit back and let it entertain me.

Forensic genealogist Rowan Healy has made a name for herself by helping investigators trace the family trees of violent criminals who have eluded justice for years. But the pressure of police cases left her burned out, and she’s shifted her focus to helping adoptees find their biological parents.

Austin detective Jack Bruner has spent his career successfully tracking down vicious criminals—with the notable exception of the West Campus Rapist, a meticulous offender in Texas who has never been identified. When the latest two victims come to light, Jack sees his target is escalating his violent behavior—and only with Rowan’s help does he stand a chance of cracking this case.

Police procedural with a little romance thrown in - I love a thrilling romance!

Jack needs help figuring out who this criminal is. He calls in Rowan - who uses DNA research to help locate the West Campus Rapist and finally put him behind bars. Tracking him down was no easy job! Her skills brought a unique and interesting part to the story.

The Last Close Call
By Laura Griffin

Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the ARC of this title in turn for my honest review.
This is not my first story from Laura Griffin and I am sure not my last but this was not my favorite from Laura Griffin. I found it difficult to stay focused while listening.
I would like to say that I would recommend this story but Laura definitely has other books I would recommend before this one. I gave it 3 stars because it wasn’t a bad story but like I said it was hard to hold my interest. I would have done better reading it rather than listening I’m guessing.
Again, thank you NetGalley and Dreamscape Media.