4.5 stars! I received an arc from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. What a way to kick off a series! I instantly fell in love with the characters and although the ending was a bit confusing, overall this was a solid police procedural!

4.75 Stars!!

What a great crime thriller full of suspense! Very much a page turner!

This one has great diverse representation and a strong female main character! The characters were all well developed- complex and flawed, but very relatable.

I enjoyed having the three different POVs. The pacing was also really good. And there was a lot of depth to the story.

A very impressive debut and I can’t wait to read the next two books in the Serpent Series as they come out! Recommend checking this one out!💙

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for this eARC.

The Serpent’s Bridge by S.Z. Estavillo is a gripping thriller that plunges readers into the dark and gritty streets of Los Angeles. The story follows Detective Anaya Nazario, a recovering alcoholic haunted by her father’s unsolved murder. When a series of gruesome killings targeting Mexican immigrants emerges, Anaya senses a connection to her father’s case and embarks on a relentless quest for justice. Her investigation leads her to Sanctuary Baptist, a church led by Pastor Stan and his wife, and forces her to collaborate with her former lover, Special Agent Blake Huxley.

S.Z. Estavillo’s debut novel, The Serpent’s Bridge, is a masterclass in suspense and psychological depth.

From the first page, Estavillo’s rich, gritty prose and compelling dialogue draws readers into a world where the line between good and evil is blurred.

The narrative is a rollercoaster of emotions, with twists and turns that keep you reading. .

Detective Anaya Nazario is a standout protagonist. Her fierce determination to solve the case and her struggle with personal demons make her a deeply relatable and inspiring character. The complexity of her relationship with Special Agent Blake Huxley adds an extra layer of intrigue and emotional depth to the story. Estavillo skillfully weaves Anaya’s present-day investigation with her haunting past, creating a rich backstory.

The plot is meticulously crafted, with each chapter revealing new pieces of a giant, mind-blowing puzzle. The pacing is perfect, with moments of intense action balanced by quieter, introspective scenes that allow for character development.

Estavillo’s writing is evocative and immersive. Her choice of words and tone paint a vivid atmosphere that makes you feel like you are a part of the action.

The Serpent’s Bridge explores themes of justice, redemption, and the impact of past traumas on the present. It delves into social issues, such as the plight of immigrants and the complexities of law enforcement in a diverse city.

In The Serpent’s Bridge, S.Z. Estavillo delivers an adrenaline-pumping thriller that is as thought-provoking as it is entertaining. With its complex characters, intricate plot, and powerful themes, this novel is a must-read for fans of the genre. Whether you’re a seasoned thriller enthusiast or new to the genre, The Serpent’s Bridge is sure to captivate and leave you eagerly awaiting the next installment in the series (I know I am).

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From the moment I picked up this book, I was totally captivated by the thrilling plot and emotional rollercoaster! Imagine a world where your deepest fears clash with your strongest desire for justice. That’s exactly what happens in this story!

Can Detective Anaya Nazario crack the mystery behind a string of gruesome murders and finally bring closure to her dad's cold case? Anaya’s fierce determination to solve the case is so inspiring, and her complicated relationship with Special Agent Huxley adds so much depth and intrigue to the story. Every page was like a new piece of a giant, mind-blowing puzzle, and I was constantly on the edge of my seat trying to figure it all out.

From the very first chapter, "The Serpent’s Bridge" swept me away with its mesmerizing, mysterious, and oh-so-scary scenes. S.Z. Estavillo’s brilliant choice of words and tone made the beginning of the book absolutely gripping and hard to put down.

The author masterfully blends Anaya’s present-day investigation with her haunting past, crafting a rich backstory that makes you totally understand and connect with her character.

The dialogue in this book is so real and lifelike, it felt like I was right there with the characters. Every conversation pulled me deeper into the story, making the whole experience incredibly immersive!

The final chapters are packed with edge-of-your-seat tension and jaw-dropping twists. Anaya’s bravery and determination are pushed to the max as she faces the chilling truth.