This is the third book of Isabella Maldonado’s series featuring Daniela “Dani” Vega, an FBI agent with the Joint Terrorism Task Force, a former codebreaker (cryptologist) for the military and a person of unconventional thinking capable of solving clues that elude others. My only regret while reading this book was that I had not already read the first two books but that will now be remedied. My only regret after finishing the book was that this story was done.
The plot, although a continuity of the storyline in A Killer’s Game, the first book in the series, works fine as a standalone. Gustavo Toro, who Dani worked with undercover and who had died in her arms, had made a video only to be viewed upon his death. It was supposed to offer information on someone who had hired Toro as a hitman along with key details on a number of unsolved crimes. The first clue leads to the search for a missing scientist that Toro claimed is the key to discovering the whereabouts of what Toro called his “treasure.” The search takes Special Agent Vega, her boss Special Agent in Charge Steve Wu, Sanjeev Patel, a civilian tech analyst, and NYPD Homicide Detective First Grade Mark Flint, from New York to Las Vegas to Mexico uncovering clues that have implications far more reaching than they could have imagined. Along the way, it is Dani’s military and FBI training that allows for the survival of the team and those civilians they must protect from those sent to kill them. It is her innate ability to decipher evidence that enables her along with Wu, Patel, and Flint to uncover the truth and bring about justice that is long overdue.
A Killer’s Code is suspenseful, action-packed, fast moving and fact-filled with tough, smart, caring characters including a woman not to be messed with. Even the hitman is more than one dimensional; a complex individual with a moral code all his own. An intricate plot, surprising reveals, and the power of eliciting heartfelt emotions from the reader make for a great read. The story is well-drawn out from beginning to end and despite its neat and satisfying conclusion, leaves you wanting more.
Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer, Publisher, for an advanced copy of A Killer’s Code. This is my honest review of Isabella Maldonado’s book.

What a series finale! This book was everything I wanted it to be and more. For starters, it was action packed, just like I’ve come to expect from Isabella Maldonado. I was on the edge of my seat the whole time. And the plot was also so clever and twisty. I loved the treasure hunt and the race against the enemy. I will say that I didn’t love feeling like we were one step behind the ‘bad guys’ in the first half, but I still enjoyed how the story progressed. I liked the mix of puzzles/code breaking and tried and true detective work. I also loved the team. Of course, I was thrilled to be back with Dani. She is so amazing! And we got to see her in her element. I was also thrilled to see Wu out of his office and into the field. He had been one of my favorite characters this whole series and he got to be so fantastic in this book. And the ending for him and Dani was everything and I was screaming with joy. Lastly, I liked the multiple perspectives, but did find myself wanting more from Toro. So overall, this book was amazing and I highly recommend it and the Dani Vega series!

BIPOC Police Procedural Thriller featuring an FBI codebreaker and her team as they follow a deceased hit man's cryptic clues on a deadly cross-country race to expose a devious mastermind.

5/5 stars: This is the third entry in the Daniela Vega series, which is a BIPOC Police Procedural Thriller that features a New York FBI agent who's a former Army Ranger with cryptanalysis training as she, her SAC and a civilian analyst are tasked by the FBI Director to follow a deceased hit man's cryptic clues on a deadly cross-country race to expose a mysterious mastermind who has been operating with impunity for decades. As she and her team gather the evidence, it’s clear this powerful adversary will stop at nothing to keep their secrets—including eliminating those who threaten to reveal them. With plenty of twists and turns, Maldonado writes a gripping fast-paced investigative tale that will leave you on the edge of your seat until the final reveal. Once again, Maldonado brings her extensive law enforcement background and experience to bear. Additionally, Maldonado's writing and character work are stellar; the characters are well-rounded and complex while remaining incredibly likable. Dani's smart, quick and tough and it's great catching up with her and her family and colleagues. I love seeing her opening herself up and I can't wait to see where her relationships will take her. Dani's the main POV but the book also includes the POV of the deceased hitman (Gustavo Toro – this character plays a significant role in the first book of the series, although no spoilers are giving to that books resolution) providing great insight and important plot elements. Maldonado tackles some very heavy topics, so take care and check the CWs. While you could read this as a stand-alone, you'll gain so much more by reading the series from the beginning; so be sure to pick up book one, A Killer’s Game.

I received this eARC thanks to Thomas & Mercer in exchange for an honest review. Publishing dates are subject to change.

Great plot in a book with mysteries and codes like an old style treasure hunt. The book is well written and the characters are great. A strong and smart female main character is never wrong. What I don't like is all the jumping around in time.

Not only did I love this novel, I went out and read everything else she’s published. These are fun easy reads in the vein of Michael Connelly. I’m not usually one for serial killer narratives but every single one of hers has kept me engaged. That said, this series was a bit different than the last but used some of the same elements. A good end to the series

In “A Killer’s Code” (Daniela Vega #3) by Isabella Maldonado we are re-introduced to FBI agent Dani Vega. Just when she thought she was done with for-hire assassin, Toro, he sends a video that has her team picking apart his words as they race around the country. But as the body count climbs their time is running out to save someone they do not even know is still alive.

I received an advanced readers copy of this book, and this is my honest voluntary review.

I'm a big fan of this author and this series. Dani Vega is as smart and tough as an FBI agent comes. I have torn through all three books in this series, and I can't wait for the next installment to see what new case she's on and where some interesting personal developments go.

This book used her amazing code-breaking skills and her experience as an Army Ranger. Plenty of action in this one and an impressive body count, but they were all very bad people. I can't summarize this any better than the book jacket, but I will say that you will not be disappointed.

This is the 3rd book in the series but I see no reason why this couldn't be read as a standalone. Even the personal stuff that carries through each book wouldn't be too confusing to a newcomer. However, as always, I highly recommend starting at the beginning. This book won't be released for another month yet: January 21, 2025. So that gives you plenty of time to get up to speed.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for providing me an electronic copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

A Killer's Code by Isabella Maldonado is a pulse-pounding thriller that thrusts readers into a world of danger, deceit, and relentless pursuit.

Maldonado delivers a masterclass in suspense, weaving a narrative as intellectually engaging as it is emotionally gripping.

The novel introduces us to Detective Nina Guerrera, a character who is tenacious and intelligent. Nina is called to investigate a series of gruesome murders that seem to be linked by a chillingly cryptic code. As she delves deeper into the mystery, the stakes become increasingly personal, pushing her to her limits professionally and personally. Maldonado's portrayal of Nina is exceptional, imbuing her with a complexity that makes her a formidable detective, and also a deeply relatable human being.

What sets A Killer's Code apart is Maldonado's ability to create a visceral sense of tension. Every scene is crafted with precision, each detail contributing to an overarching sense of urgency that propels the reader forward. The plot is tightly woven, with twists and turns that keep the reader guessing. Maldonado’s expertise in law enforcement shines through, lending authenticity to the procedural aspects of the story without bogging down the narrative.

The code itself is a fascinating element, adding a layer of intellectual challenge that engages the reader's curiosity. Maldonado deftly balances the cerebral puzzle with high-octane action, ensuring that the novel is as much a mental exercise as it is a heart-pounding adventure.

In addition to its thrilling plot, A Killer's Code explores deeper themes of justice, redemption, and the impact of past traumas. Maldonado handles these themes with sensitivity and depth, enriching the story and giving it a profound emotional resonance.

Isabella Maldonado has crafted a thriller that is captivating and thought-provoking. A Killer's Code is a must-read for fans of crime fiction, offering a story as satisfying to the mind as it is to the heart. This novel is a testament to Maldonado’s skill as a storyteller, leaving readers eagerly awaiting her next work.

This is the third book in the Daniela Vega series. I previously read the second book but never backtracked to read the first one. I had no trouble following the characters and the plot despite not reading the first book. The main character of the story is Daniela "Dani" Vega and she is a great strong, smart lead and you can't help but root for her. The plot is great and keeps you interested in the story the whole time. I really enjoy these books and can't wait to both go back and read book 1 and also read any additional books in this series.

Isabella Maldonado was one of my favorite new author discoveries of 2023, and I still can’t believe it took me that long to finally pick up on of her books. I was hooked as soon as I read the first Daniela Vega book, and I’ve been waiting impatiently for this third book to be published. There is just something about the writing of this author that is highly addictive… A Killer's Code returns to its roots and once again has a bit more codebreaking in the plot, although the main focus is on a race against the clock with plenty of danger along the way. Another intense and exhilarating ride!

Technically, A Killer's Code can be read as a stand-alone, but I would personally suggest reading the books in order. It will give you a better idea of what main character Dani is capable of as well as the dynamics with the other key characters... Like I said before, A Killer's Code returns to its cryptology roots and shows us a bit more of Dani's talents along the way. Her codebreaker background is fascinating, and it is what makes this series stand out to me. The plot itself reads mostly like your typical FBI/action thriller with a lot of danger and a true race against the clock.

While the case itself relates directly to the previous book and one of the characters in play, it does stand on its own as well as the team has to follow the clues to uncover what Toro has hidden. There is also room for personal development along the way, and it was without doubt an interesting change in dynamics. I'm not sure what to make of the romance angle, but thankfully there wasn't too much focus on it in the plot... There simply wasn't time with the characters being constantly on the move. There were plenty of twists along the way, and I especially liked the moments of codebreaking (although I do wish there would have been more). Dani has plenty of moments of being able to show all of her skills though!

A Killer's Code ended up being another worthy Daniela Vega sequel. It offered a suspenseful and action-packed story with a dose of personal development thrown in... I can highly recommend it if you like your thrillers on the tense and exhilarating side. Her books in general are well worth your time for that matter!

4 stars
Publication date January 21, 2025

Thank you, NetGalley and Thomas & and Mercer, for sending this eARC for review consideration. All opinions are my own.

Dani Vega is back in the thick of things as an FBI agent. A ghost from a past case leaves a video full of clues, leading to incriminating evidence against powerful, evil people. Dani is in a race against the clock to decipher the clues before more innocent lives are taken.

This is the third book in the Dani Vega series. It could be read as a standalone, but the entire series is excellent and gives you more insight into the characters when you start at the beginning. I would love to see a fourth book.

Another kick butt thriller from Isabella Maldonado, featuring Dani Vega and crew. Well written storyline will keep you wondering and great characters(both good/bad) to keep you entertained. Can be read as a standalone, but read the previous novel for a better understanding.
Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for the ARC and I recommend buying this book Jan. 21, 2025.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I have been reading the series, and I felt invested in the characters. Although there will probably be more books in the series, there is a satisfying HEA in this volume. There is no actual mushy stuff or erotic sessions, but the context has been set. The next book should find the last killer of the murderous triad from Mexico, and perhaps, readers will get to see a love connection blossom.

Another great book by Isabella Malonado. It pulls you in at the beginning and keeps you on the edge of your seat until the very end! 4 stars!

When Gustavo Toro was murdered, he left his secrets to the head of the FBI if his people could follow the clues to find Toro's buried treasure including evidence that will incriminate the person who hired and assigned him as an assassin,

Dani Vega, Steve Wu, Detective Flint, and computer specialist Sanjeev Patel are the ones assigned to follow Toro's cryptic clues. But the enemies who want to find and destroy the clues first seem to always be one step ahead.

The team goes on a nationwide hunt for Toro's treasure from New York to Miami and a cruise ship, to Denver and to the Arizona desert.

I enjoyed the fast-paced action in this thriller and liked the flashbacks to the last days of Toto's life. I also liked the shifts in viewpoints from the heroes to the villains. The story was filled with interesting new technology and gadgets. It was also filled with complex characters who had to deal with moral dilemmas.

This is the third Daniela Vega thriller. I like the way we get to see how Dani has changed.

Right off the bat, I liked Dani's character a lot more in this novel than I did in the prior ones. Yes, she is still just as good as seeing patterns and forming connections between seemingly unrelated concepts as always, but it wasn't as instantaneous as it has been. I felt she came across as more human instead of machine in this one which I enjoyed. I also found the sort of cat and mouse game that was being played to be intriguing - we knew the basics of who and why, but it was interesting to see how her adversaries managed to stay one step ahead of her and her team.

I've seen some other people mention that parts of this novel seemed more action movie than thriller story, but I feel like that really worked for this one. It was during these scenes that I really felt the most immersed in the story, and it enabled Dani to showcase her former military training in a way that benefited her team. I also really enjoyed seeing her brother Axel again, and certain things that happened in this book make me wonder if we're not going to be seeing more of him in the future.

There were however, a couple of things that threw me with this one. The first being this supposed romantic interest that was hinted at a couple of times in the story (in a negative manner), but those supposed feelings really pops up at the end leading certain characters to make certain choices. I felt like this came way out of left field as I don't remember there being any hint about this in any of the prior novels, and even in this one when it was being bandied about, I never really saw it for myself. It seemed like it was a random attempt to make Dani more likeable by showing that she could have a life outside of the FBI, and I am curious if the author plans to expand upon this in future novels or not. The second thing was Dani suddenly finding herself in the role of godmother to someone she doesn't know. I mean I get the circumstances are unorthodox, but it still seemed odd to invite someone into your life like that without knowing them better first.

All of that being said, I am excited to see what comes next for Dani and her team, and I can't wait to read more from this author!

DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.

I could not put this book down (and I stayed up WAY too late to finish it!). From the first chapter, I was all in! This is a fast-paced, law enforcement suspense/thriller that just did not stop moving. Every chapter had a new twist or turn!

Each book in this series gets better than the previous! I throughly enjoyed this installment of Dani Vega’s story - it was a thrilling, action packed and fast paced read. The unpredictable twists and turns kept coming throughout the book. I can’t wait to keep reading more of this brilliant mind’s adventures.

4.5/5. Another strong and fast paced thriller from Maldonado that stands alone as a solid read for those not familiar with the series.

I love Isabella Maldonado’s writing style! Her mysteries are full of complicated clues, extensive chases of complex characters, and badass women figuring everything out with a great team of fun sidekicks. And this book did not disappoint. The mystery plays well into the mystery set up at the end of the previous book and kept me on my toes the entire book. The romance subplot was so sweet but I wish it was more prominent and that there was more to it at the end of the book. This was such a quick but intriguing read! I can’t wait to read whatever she writes next.

Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.