Member Reviews

You Can Kill (Laurel Snow, #4) by Rebecca Zanetti
Laurel Snow and Huck Rivers are a fantastic crime fighting team and romantic couple. These books always keep me on the the edge of my seat and doing my best to figure out all the twists and turns. There is angst, wonderful friends and coworkers, very evil people, deception, discovery, some laughs and tears, a great dog, plenty of steam all to get us to a sad but HEA.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Action-packed Tear-jerker Steamy Scary Unpredictable Twisted Page-turner Wonderful characters Tragic Happily Ever After Informative Witty Haunting Romantic Great world building Entertaining.

Was this review helpful?

I love this series. The twisted family members add so much tension. Abigail stresses me out because you never know what she's going to do next. I did struggle a bit with Laurel in this book because she's super smart but seemed to miss a lot of connections during this investigation. She did have a lot going on in her personal life though.

There are some great side characters that I love getting to know and Huck's dog is adorable. Laurel & Huck are really cute together and it's been so nice to watch them both come out of their shells. I was so stressed for both of them in this investigation. They always seem to end up with a target on their backs and I never know how it'll be resolved. The ending was explosive with a rollercoaster of emotions. I can't wait to see what Abigail gets up to in the next and how Laurel & Huck will deal with everything.

Was this review helpful?

3.5 stars rounded up.

Book no. 4 in the Laurel Snow series.

This was my first book by this author, and even though it was the fourth installment in a series, the author did a good job of (re-)introducing characters and background info to newbies like me, so I never felt lost.

Laurel Snow is a genius-level intelligent FBI agent living in a small, rustic town in the Pacific Northwest. In a relationship with a local Fish and Wildlife captain, Huck Rivers, Laurel is trying to adjust to major life changes - she is newly pregnant, and her own, despised father is trying to establish a mega church in town - when a serial killer Laurel [book:caught previously|59342698] escapes custody. Soon after, the body of a woman is found by a local river, brutally murdered - and she is just the first. As the bodies start piling up, and the case starts hitting too close to home, Laurel cannot help but wonder if this is truly the work of the escaped serial killer, or if the killer is someone else entirely - possibly someone much closer to home.

I enjoyed the mystery at the heart of the story, which kept me engaged and guessing. One major flaw in choosing an idyllic small town as the setting for the entire series, though, is that it seems fairly ridiculous how many killers this little town has been plagued with over the course of the series (and there will most likely be more coming, as there will probably be a fifth book). If you can look beyond that, there is an intriguing cast of characters and solid suspense to be found here.

Laurel is a formidable and likeable character, but no matter how often her off the charts intelligence was mentioned, and how much as she could quote random trivia, I was actually not very impressed by her case-solving skills. Other people constantly had to point out similarities and connections between cases to her, and it took her a long time to grasp the full picture, while others caught on much quicker. I am also not one drooling over the Laurel/Huck relationship, which I think is partly due to the fact that the two were pretty isolated in this story, with most of Laurel's team scattered- I might have enjoyed them more if the focus hadn't always been on the two of them. Sure, they seem like a happy couple, but Huck's overprotectiveness (elevated by Laurel's pregnancy, but still) started to grate on me. And sentences like "Huck looked tall and strong in the driver's seat" actually had me snorting with laughter. There are a few spicy scenes between the couple, which I personally found wholly unnecessary and a bit distracting, but that's what you get for reading romantic suspense.

I really enjoyed Laurel's evil half-sister Abigail, in spite of her getting away with a bit too much, even totally illogical and impossible things; she actually came across as much, much cleverer than Laurel. That being said, I found myself a bit disappointed by how Abigail's story arc concluded in this book - I would have liked a more open ending, considering the series isn't over yet (or so it seems). Or maybe even a spinoff!

All in all, an entirely enjoyable mystery with solid characters. I would definitely read the next book in the series.

Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing | Zebra for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

"You Can Kill" is slated to be released on October 22, 2024.

Was this review helpful?

Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book.

4.5 stars
This series gets better and better with each book. This was so close to 5 stars for me, but I just can't get over how Abigail gets away with everything that she gets away with! It gets.a bit ridiculous. Also, with Laurel being as intelligent as she is, it was kind of hard to believe that she didn't pick up on certain things, like how someone was purposely luring her team away from her. The ending was both very satisfying and very frustrating. No spoilers but it sure looks like there will be a book 5 and I'm ready for it.

This time around, we get a lot more personal with Laurel and Huck; he is really coming out of his shell. The romantic aspects were perfect and I loved how protective he was due to her pregnancy. He also showed a lot of humor. I loved these two characters. The story will have you on the edge of your seat so don't start it and expect to be able to put it down!

Was this review helpful?

'How many people have you seen in the last two weeks who have worn red shoes?' She tried to take a moment away from thinking about the murder. 'That's a game I play with the deputy director of the FBI.''Yeah, but it's a fun game.' Her stomach finally settled. ' In the last two weeks, I would say probably twenty-eight.' 'Probably?' Sometimes she liked to sound as if she was being thoughtful about something when the number just popped into her head. 'Okay. Most certainly twenty-eight.'

Because of her emotional challenges and her quirky nature, Laurel Snow should be a completely unlovable character, but she has most definitely become one of my favorite persons in fiction. Her attempts to appear 'normal' make her lovable to me.

As the FBI agent in charge of the Pacific Northwest Violent Crimes Unit, Laurel Snow has proven herself to be superior at catching serial killers. Unfortunately, her most recent capture, Jason Abbott, has escaped from prison and a new series of killings has begun. Coincidence? Most likely not. Because the first murder victim was discovered half on federal land and half on state, Laurel and her significant other, Washington Fish and Wildlife captain Huck Rivers will once agin work together to solve the most recent crime spree.

Many families consider themselves to be dysfunctional but Laurel's family dynamics make yours and mine look like your average, everyday, run of the mill family. Her father has most definitely lead a nefarious lifestyle. He hides behind his role as pastor of the community church, giving the appearance of a pillar of the Genesis Valley society. Unfortunately, Laurel has no evidence to prove his past crimes. Her sister, Abagail, is most certainly a sociopath or psychopath. With a higher intelligence than the average person, Abagail believes no one will uncover her evil deeds; she is always two steps ahead of local law enforcement. No doubt, eventually Laurel will find what she needs to put her father and sister away for their multitude of violations. I do not look forward to that day because I fear it will be the end of a series that I have grown so fond of and eagerly anticipate reading future installments.

Every single book in this series has captivated me and held me in it's thrall. 'You Can Kill' was no exception. The story is filled with a number of strong, capable, and intelligent women, both good and evil. Even knowing that Abigail is not a good person, her dysfunction and wicked ways are intriguing. I want her to be caught in the act and at the same time I am curious what she will come up with next. To see two minds of the same caliber, one for good and one for evil, pitted against one another has made for a suspenseful, dynamic, and powerful read. I have recommended this series a number of times to friends and family.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Was this review helpful?

This was one twisted book! I absolutely loved it. From the serial killings to the obsessive stalkery sister to the evil father, this book had a lot going on. I find Abigail’s quest for a deeper relationship with Laurel fascinating, yet exceedingly creepy. When Laurel needs her team the most, someone is intent on isolating her. While keeping me on the edge of my seat, this book also made me a bit sad, then shocked at the ending. Definitely looking forward to the next book.

Was this review helpful?

Talking about can’t put it down reading! Love these Laurel.Snow books. When blonds begin turning up dead in a most unusual way, it’s up to Snow, Huck and her team to capture who’s doing it. But when the first victim turns out to be Hucks long lost mother, the plot thickens!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thank you for allowing me to review

Was this review helpful?

Wow! This series just keeps getting better! I love the feeling of danger that lingers at the edges of this story with each turn of the page. I never know what to expect or when something alarming and terrifying is going to happen. Which of course keeps me turning the pages. When you add in that Laurel is a character unlike any I’ve read before I have found myself totally addicted.

This storyline, at times, gave me creepy crawlies…and it was awesome! While this book gives us a resolution to these murders, there are still issues to be dealt with and I just know Abigail is going to show us what she’s really made of at some point. The fact that I don’t know where, when or how keeps me on edge constantly. Mrs. Zanetti is a master at romantic suspense and I’m for the ride til the very end!

Was this review helpful?

Another Wonderful Laurel Snow Book
I really enjoy reading these Laurel Snow books. I like seeing how Laurel and Huck's relationship is evolving. Laurel is seeing a change in herself for the better. Huck is not as grumpy as he used to be. Laurel's sister, Abigail is very disturbing. Their mutual father, Zeke, is just as disturbing. There's a killer in the area again. Is it the escaped killer, Jason? Or someone else? Or is there more than one killer. Huck is being accused as the killer. Will Laurel be able to prove that he's innocent before it's too late? The ending to this book was unbelievable. I'm sure hoping the next book will be out soon! I received an early copy from Netgalley to read and leave my honest review. I am leaving my honest review.

Was this review helpful?

You Can Kill
by Rebecca Zanetti
Pub Date: Oct. 22, 2024
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
The Blacklist meets The Profiler in this edgy, gripping thriller that’s perfect for of Laura Griffin and Jayne Ann Krentz!

A string of brutal murders is leaving a grisly trail across the Pacific Northwest—and drawing rising star FBI profiler Laurel Snow back into a treacherous case and a twisted personal drama she can’t escape . . .
With the murders, and the suspects, multiplying around them, and the lives of everyone in their orbit at stake, only Laurel’s sharp analytic skills, Huck’s deep gut instincts, and their growing bond will enable them to face the demons within and the threats without—before they’re next on an elusive killer’s hit list . . .
#4 in the Laura Snow series! These characters are so fascinating to me . Laurel is such a unique character and I love everything about her. Huck is the grumpy, protective, alpha hero that I also absolutely love. When he starts accepting his love for Laurel, he's a pretty swoon worthy hero. Laurel's sister and father are majorly disturbing and part of why I'm fascinated with what's going on in this series. I highly recommend this book and series.

Was this review helpful?

I’ve only read 4 books by this author but they have all been well written and not easy to put down. In this book someone is drowning blond women in an icy river in the Pacific Northwest. Laurel, FBI agent in charge of this investigation, has a feeling she knows who is doing it but she hasn’t been able to prove it. Zanetti does a fabulous job of describing characters and scenes, the surroundings and what is happening. Her father and half-sister play large roles in this book although Laurel finds them both creepy and scary. This book has lots of suspense and many unexpected twists as well as a bit of romance. I received an arc of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.

Was this review helpful?

YOU CAN KILL by Rebecca Zanetti. Here we have the continuing tale of Laurel and Huck. They have an interesting relationship, and I truly adore them both. Of course, there is suspense and mystery and danger but I did find the first half a bit slow. However, once the action picks up, oh boy! Hold on your hat! Ms. Zanetti had me on the edge of my seat waiting to see what would happen next and who would survive! I would advise reading the previous books to get a better feel for some of the relationships but overall, a really enjoyable read. (Received ARC from NetGalley for honest review)

Was this review helpful?

This is a voluntary review of an advanced copy.

Wow, Laurel and Huck are back and this time they are dealing with Laurel's sister, Abigail, her father, Zeke, and the escaped serial killer, Jason. As they hunt down the escaped Jason, there are now new dead bodies showing up - all with blond hair. Is this because of Jason or a new serial killer?

Their investigation is complicated when the first blond victim turns out to be Huck's mother who he has never met but still has to be removed from the investigation.

There are so many twists and turns in this book and things that I did not seeing coming that I could not put this book down until I had finished it! And is Tim, quirky psychic, for real or is he a quack? He says a worse evil is coming for Laurel and Huck so can't wait for their next book.

Was this review helpful?

4.25 Stars 🌟

It goes without saying that I am a huge fan of Ms. Zanetti. With that being said, I have read all of the previous three books in this series. This latest book builds on the foundation that has been previously built with the main characters of FMC Laurel and MMC Huck. The main focus is on Laurel (FBI Special Agent) and Huck (Fish and Wildlife Captain) and their personal, as well as their professional relationship. The personal - they are having a baby - and the professional - there are new murders occurring as well as an escaped serial killer on the run. Unfortunately, with their lives being so tangled, this poses problems when Huck is taken off one of the cases and is not allowed to be anywhere near the investigation. He is feeling VERY protective over Laurel, not only because there are a couple of killers on the loose, but because she is pregnant with his baby.

This book had a few instances where I was pulled out of the story and that was a new one for me. For one thing, Abigail is BEYOND psychopathic (which we already knew) but somehow she seems to be getting away with WAY too many things that just seem to breach the realm of impossibility. Without going into spoilers, let's just say that it didn't make sense to me the way she was able to pull off some of the events that she did - not remotely plausible or possible......but maybe that's just me.....

Laurel finds herself smack dab in the middle of chaos as one by one her team is pulled away. She becomes so very isolated and that bothered me as well. As things are heating up, she didn't even seem to realize what was being orchestrated around her.

But, there is definitely some suspense and drama in this one. The level of tension builds to wonderful levels as the story barrels towards its climax. There are several possibilities for the "WHO" when it comes to the murders. Is Jason (the escaped killer) the one doing these new murders? Can there also be a NEW murderer in town?

Also, there is a certain reporter who was SO irritating and annoying that it made me want to lock her in a closet - UGH - but it made for great reading. :)

While this storyline is wrapped up, we definitely learn that all is not over and it becomes clear that there is going to be a Book 5.

Thank you to NetGalley and to Kensington Publishing | Zebra for the opportunity to read and review this ARC. The opinions above are mine and mine alone. This book will be out for publication on October 22, 2024.

Was this review helpful?

I love this series and I need more immediately! Laurel is such an interesting character and I can’t wait to see what happens between her and her crazy sister as well as her love life!

Was this review helpful?

I was very lucky to get an ARC of this book, Thank you, Netgalley! Honestly, this series is perfection. It had me hooked from page 1. No surprise really, every book that Rebecca writes is an instant 5 stars for me. I consider myself to be her 1 fan....Fan girling aside, this book was fast paced, and had me on the edge of my seat up until the end. I almost screamed and repeatedly said oh fuck oh fuck.... ask my mum. Anyway, I highly hugly recommend this series and book. Cant wait to see what happens to the gang next!!!

Was this review helpful?

This series keeps getting better & better. Laurel and Huck team up to solve multiple murders, while trying to keep a safe distance from Laurel’s half-sister, Abigail, a dangerous sociopath and her narcissistic egomaniac father.

Laurel & Huck's chemistry continues to grow and at the same time Abigail obsession with forming a relationship with Laurel grows scarier & scarier.

I could not put this book down & now have to wait for the next installment. If you like dark, psycho thrillers this series is for you.

I received this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

Was this review helpful?

How can Laurel possibly remain this good when half of her family tree is…not? Oh, that’s right. The other half more than makes up for it. And this time around, she’s getting closer to truths that truly don’t want to be told. In the process, someone or something is getting closer to permanently changing how Laurel and Huck move forward in their relationship and life in general. Add in someone who is far too…obsessed? Intent? Completely cracked? I’m not sure. But that person is determined to be Laurel’s best and only support.

I honestly can’t believe the twists this author whips us through in getting to the heart of the danger and the mystery, but I loved every second of it. Laurel and Huck are on the right track, but they’re also in danger. They’re so close, but so far. And once it all comes crashing down, I’m left wanting so much more right now. Is a certain agent finally realizing he’s been duped? Is an opportunistic mean girl going to quit trying to destroy someone just to get ahead? And when do I get more?

I really can’t wait because I’m sure whatever comes next, it’ll be just as tipsy turvy in the danger and mystery departments as this one was!

Was this review helpful?

Murders and twists and turns, oh my! I loved every single moment in this newest installment of this amazing and thrilling series. Laurel Snow and Huck Rivers are quite the couple. She is brilliant and he has all the street smarts as well as being a swoony protective boyfriend. I love them together so much! And they make a great team working together as do their FBI and Fish & Wildlife teams. But trouble sure has its way of surrounding them. Things get quite dicey for Huck in this one but Laurel knows and trusts him so her faith in him never waivers. As always her sister Abigail’s behavior is very disturbing maybe even more than usual, and now their father Zeke is back and boy is he your typical narcissistic egomaniac. Regardless of them, I truly enjoyed this book so much! I am pretty sure there will be more since this one seems to end but not really. I look forward to more of Laurel and Huck!

Was this review helpful?

This book will make you sleep with the lights on! Our beloved FBI Laurel Snow and Fish and Wildlife Office Huck Rivers find themselves in a fight for their lives trying to catch a killer or is it killers? This story is face paced and will keep you guessing til the end.

I received an ARC copy in exchange for my own opinion.

Was this review helpful?