3.5 ⭐️ This was a detailed police procedural that I enjoyed overall. The characters were well-developed, and the writing made it an easy read. The story primarily revolves around the drug underworld in a small town, but I felt it was lacking in thrill and excitement. Despite this, the writing was so strong that it kept me engaged throughout. While this can be read as a standalone, it’s the fourth book in a series, and I think reading the previous three might have made this one even more enjoyable.

HAZEL (from Hello, Transcriber, Black Harbor #1) is BACK!

Tommy Greenlee, Hazel's ex-husband, has been shot several times and left for dead, wrapped in a garbage bag and bleach poured all over the body. But that's not all, a lottery ticket was found on him.
Haunted by her memories of him and Black Harbor, she returns after 8 years. Someone else she left there, Sergeant Nikolai Kole and their past love affair, isn't far from her mind either.
He's been assigned the case. They work together to uncover who shot her ex, but Hazel doesn't know she's being watched by an evil entity the whole time.

This book is awesome! So many easter eggs via characters from past books are brought together in this one. The gore of the crime scenes is next level, gritty. The locations in the story, I could see and feel in my bones. Drug crazed lunatics are amuk and that's just the on the surface of book 4. The pacing is perfect and kept me wanting to know more - as did the calling card of the killer, these lottery tickets turning up everywhere -- what did the numbers mean?? The book wraps up with an explosive finish that could satisfy those who've been lured into this town. BUT -- if you want more, Morrissey hasn't locked the closed door, either. It's entirely up to you, the reader, to let her know if Black Harbor should remain as a scab, or if it needs to be picked.😬🫣 IYKYK

4.5 rounded up because I LOVED this one! A fun, dark and twisty mystery. I could not put this down and quite literally lost sleep to finish it! The twists kept me guessing, the story was intriguing and exciting and I really enjoyed the characters, too.

Definitely worth the read and made me want to read the rest of the books in the series!

Main Characters:
-- Hazel Rydelle – former police transcriber turned author who escaped Black Harbor and moved to New York, previously had a relationship with Nik Kole while she was married to Tommy
-- Nikolai Kole – police sergeant of Black Harbor’s Violent Crime Task Force, has spent 23 years as a police officer battling the violence and drug culture that infiltrates every corner of Black Harbor
-- Fletcher, Riley, and Axel – Nik’s investigative team
-- Big House – owner of The Mineshaft, a members-only club where police are not allowed, central location in town for the drug trade and where Tommy Greenlee was murdered
-- Robert Pitts – a member of The Mineshaft who brought in a non-member the night that Tommy Greenlee was killed
-- Dirty Harriet – a confidential informant for the police, lives in a rundown apartment, very much a part of the drug culture
-- Buddha – the top of the Black Harbor food chain, identity unknown
-- Hades – disgraced drug lord currently serving a prison sentence

Trigger warning: suicide, murder, drug use

"The Unlucky Ones" is the fourth book in Hannah Morrissey’s Black Harbor series. While it can be billed as a stand-alone novel, I feel like I would have benefitted from reading the previous books in the series because there is only so much back story that can be included. In this case, it wasn’t enough.

Hazel moved to Black Harbor with then-husband Tommy Greenlee and became a police transcriber, working with Nikolai. Eight years prior to the current story, Hazel moved to New York after an affair with Nikolai and a divorce from Tommy. There, she wrote a novel that put the small town of Black Harbor on the map. When she learns about Tommy’s murder, she returns to Black Harbor to try to figure out what happened.

Nik has spent his entire career in law enforcement in Black Harbor. Despite the prevalence of the violence and drug culture, Nik feels compelled to stay in Black Harbor to try to make a difference. It’s clear that he felt deeply for Hazel and wants to keep her safe. Their former relationship is mentioned a number of times by co-workers, though, so it makes things a bit uncomfortable for him when she starts to get involved in the case.

There is a lot happening in this book, and I had a hard time following everything. Because of the references to the past, I ended up with more questions than answers. Why did Hazel and Tommy ultimately split up? Did he know about her affair with Nik? When and why did she decide to go to New York? There are references to her dropping items over the railing of the bridge, but so much context is missing. Is any of it relevant to the current day? I feel like it was intentional on the author’s part, but it just created more confusion.

A second murder (Tommy’s best friend) kicks the investigation into high gear, and they decide to leverage Hazel’s knowledge of the law enforcement systems. Nik wants to keep her close to keep her safe, so she might as well help them with the investigation. There are no real twists in this story. The investigation uncovers one lead after the next, and eventually they figure things out, and of course Nik saves the day.

In addition to the back stories that would have provided helpful context, my biggest question mark was why Hazel decided to go back to Black Harbor. She was divorced from Tommy. She had no connection left to the town. There’s no reason for her to go back.

There are sooooo many characters in this story…too many without the historical context. And Big House, Buddha, and Hades? I know gangs have street names, but I had a really hard time keeping the three of them straight. Again, I think having the history of the previous books would have been helpful.

This was ok for me. If you’re a regular reader of this author, you will probably enjoy it more than I did.

Hazel and Kole are back and I couldn’t have been more excited for this one 😭 Hannah brings all the grit and excitement you want in a crime thriller. This time around we get Black Harbor in the summer time. The weight of the summer heat mingles with the drama and tension of the current case the BHPD is trying to unravel. Hannah gives you everything with this novel: a disturbing murder, a gritty investigation, escalating events, and a damn good conclusion.

I LOVED all the references to events from previous books and the appearances of many of the characters I loved. Hazel and Kole were two of my favorites so I’m thrilled we were given more of them. This series has me in a chokehold and I can’t recommend it enough.

This is one in a series, but also is a stand alone story. I have not read any others about these characters but was given enough of the backstory that I was never lost or confused. Overall, this is a detective thriller. There was never a big “twist” that shocked me, which is a necessary component for me. Three stars.

If doing one bad thing could save your life, would you do it?

Hazel is drawn back to Black Harbor when her ex husband is found murdered. But is it really a surprise, considering Black Harbor is a dark, gritty town that threatens to devour its residents.

When Hazel returns, she’s also once again thrust into Nickolai Kole’s orbit, and the chemistry they once had is back and stronger than ever. Like a moth to a flame they’re drawn to each other. But as Kole works to solve Hazel’s ex’s murder, and find the drug lord who’s selling Zombie, the flame they’re drawn to may just burn them for good.

The 4th book in the Black Harbor series, The Unlucky Ones is the best one yet! Hannah, you had me on the edge of my seat and gave me chills. 5 stars!⭐️

Let me preface this by saying that this is my first book in the series. I think this can work as a standalone, but there is a lot of history and backstory. I really appreciate that Morrissey did not shy away from the grittiness that comes with opioid and fentanyl addiction, and the impact it can have on a community. However, this police procedural was just too bleak and convoluted for my liking. My favourite part was the romance between Kole and Hazel.

Special thanks to Minotaur Books and Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.

The fourth installment of the Black Harbor is just as dark and gritty as its precursors!

When Hazel's ex-husband is shot to death, a calling card left with this body, she's drawn back to Black Harbor after years of staying away. As she tries to to solve Tommy's murder, she finds herself attracted to her former fling, Sergeant Nikolai Cole, tensions rise in Black Harbor as extreme temperatures and a new drug are pushing crime to a violent breaking point. Can Hazel solve her ex-husbands murder, navigate her complicated relationship with Kole, and leave Black Harbor behind for good?

Morrissey's atmospheric writing and dark, gritty plot points come together perfectly in The Unlucky Ones!

Hazel returns to Black Harbor when her abusive ex-husband Tommy is found dead. It's been more than 8 years since she was last there, and the memories are not good. She has not seen her ex-lover Nikolai Kole in that time, and the meetings are inevitable as he is investigating Tommy's death.

Another dark and gritty tale from Morrissey, who manages to show the underbelly of this poverty stricken and drug infested place in such descriptive ways. As Hazel and Nikolai circle each other, they try to figure out who killed Tommy.

The characters are all flawed and plot is dark and twisty. I liked the fact that the story was told from both Hazel and Nikolai's point of view, but for some reason the plot lagged for me in the middle of the book. I like these characters very much and really enjoyed the earlier books in the series. This one didn't quite do it for me, although I can't really put my finger on why!

I'm still looking forward to the next in the series.

The Unlucky Ones is the fourth book in the Black Harbour series. I haven’t read the first three, but have seen a lot of bookstagrammers rave about them so I thought I would request the latest on Netgalley.

Although this author and series has a lot of fans, I’m not one of them. For many reasons, this book just did not deliver the elements I need to be able to say it was a good read. The writing itself was basic and lacked any kind of literary flare. It also misused several words (describing “dilated” pupils, and then calling them “pinprick” in the same paragraph; saying something was “abysmally clear” when it should have been “abundantly clear”) which pulled me right out of the story. It also used Taylor Swift’s popular song lyric “play stupid games, win stupid prizes” at least 7-10 times. The repetition alone would have raised an eyebrow for me, but the blatant over-use of a very popular phrase soured me for this book.

Beyond the writing style, I just couldn’t relate to any of the characters. They were all dark. They were all broody. They all had pasts full of secrets. It was flat. The pacing was also flat and seemed to chase it’s tail thought out the middle of the book. I just wanted to finish, so I skipped about 75 pages, read the ending and knew exactly what was happening.

I want to thank the publisher and @netgalley for approving my request - my reviews are always (brutally) honest.

Although I previously read the third in this series (When I’m Dead), I have not read the first two. From some of the reviews that I have read, Hazel and Nik, two of the main characters from the first in the series (The Transcriber), reappear here, and perhaps I would have enjoyed this novel more had I started at the beginning of the series. I think in not having done so I missed much of Hazel and Nick’s backstory, and the novel as a whole seemed to have a bit too many missing parts to me. Also, despite the darkness and grit that embodies this novel, which is replete with drugs and crime, I did enjoy reading about Hazel’s return to Black Harbor to try to learn who killed her abusive ex, but overall the storyline was merely o.k. to me.

Release: March 24, 2025
Publisher: Minotaur

Rating: 4 ★ 

The Unlucky Ones follows a police officer as she navigates the aftermath of a traumatic event while investigating a mysterious case. As she digs deeper, she uncovers dark secrets about both the crime and her own past. The book is filled with twists, tension, and complex characters, especially the protagonist, whose emotional struggles make her journey all the more gripping. With its dark, atmospheric tone and unpredictable plot, the story keeps you hooked until the very end, leaving you thinking long after the final page.
The Unlucky Ones by Hannah Morrissey, was an intense, haunting read that I couldn’t put down. The story follows a police officer, who’s dealing with the aftermath of a traumatic event, and as the investigation unravels, secrets about her past and the case begin to surface. The way Morrissey weaves together suspense, mystery, and psychological drama is incredibly compelling.
What I really loved about this book was the atmosphere — it's dark and gritty, with a sense of tension that builds and never lets go. The characters are well-developed, especially the protagonist, who feels so real in her struggles. Her emotional depth adds layers to the mystery, and I found myself not just wanting to know the outcome of the case, but also how she would cope with everything she was facing.
The pacing is perfect, with just enough twists and turns to keep you hooked. Morrissey does a fantastic job of keeping you guessing — every time I thought I figured something out, another layer would be revealed that shifted my perspective entirely. The plot is unpredictable, and the ending, while satisfying, left me thinking about the story long after I finished.
If you're into psychological thrillers with complex characters and an atmosphere that keeps you on edge, I highly recommend The Unlucky Ones. It’s a gripping, emotional ride that will stay with you long after the final page.

Favorite Quote: 
"The scars we carry are maps of our battles -  reminders that we've made it through what we thought we wouldn't."

Thank you to St Martin's Press and MacMillan audio for review copies!
Hannah Morrissey once again draws readers into the shadowy, all-consuming atmosphere of Black Harbor—a place where darkness and emptiness seep into its residents, shaping their every move. When I'm Dead unfolds with a slow-burn intensity, rewarding those who embrace its deliberate pacing and intricate storytelling.

Hazel, a former police transcriber turned novelist, is pulled back into the city she once escaped when her ex-husband, Tommy Greenlee, is murdered. The case falls into the hands of Sergeant Nikolai Kole—her former lover, tangled in a history of betrayal. As they navigate their fractured past to uncover the truth, the novel skillfully returns to early characters and themes, reflecting on how time and tragedy have reshaped them.

Morrissey’s writing is as sharp as ever, her prose dripping with atmosphere, ensuring Black Harbor feels both alive and suffocating. The narrative unfolds in layers, shifting perspectives to keep the mystery unpredictable, with plot twists that deepen the intrigue. The audiobook narrators breathe life into Hazel and Kole, amplifying the tension and emotional weight of their story.

Dark, moody, and deeply immersive, When I'm Dead is a gripping blend of police procedural and psychological thriller. Morrissey masterfully crafts a world where past and present collide, and every revelation pulls you further into the abyss of Black Harbor.

The Unlucky Ones by Hannah Morrissey is a gripping thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat with its razor-sharp, vivid prose. This novel is not for the faint-hearted, weak-stomached, or easily shocked. However, for those who appreciate murder mysteries that are dark, terrifying, tense, and traumatic, this book is just what you need.

I've enjoyed this series and the author's overall work with these books. I love that she doesn't shy away from the crime in cities.

As a police procedural, the book delivers a headline-worthy plot, brimming with characters who each hold their own—though many possess decidedly questionable traits.

The Unlucky Ones plunges readers into a shadowy world of drugs and decay, crafting a dark and gripping mystery. Amidst the darkness, a romance between two former lovers tentatively emerges, offering a glimmer of light to balance the grim setting. Morrissey masterfully blends both tones, creating a nuanced atmosphere.

All in all, this is a compelling police procedural that draws you in and makes you feel as though you’re right there on the streets, piecing together the murder mystery alongside the characters. For those comfortable with raw and unflinching depictions of a crime-ridden world, this novel is a must-read, and I loved the protagonist!

Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for this ARC!

The Unlucky Ones by Hannah Morrissey is the 4th installment of the Black Harbor series. It is the first book I have ever read in the series, and while I probably would have benefitted from reading the 3 previous books, I was able to easily read this as a standalone and catch up on what was going on.

Hazel Greenlee, former police transcriber turned author, is back in Black Harbor. Although she never imagined stepping foot here again, she’s back to find out who murdered her ex-husband, Tommy. Black Harbor is a crime ridden, drug infested, dangerous town, and Sergeant Nikolai Kole is the man in charge of the investigation. Kole is also Hazel’s former lover, and after eight years apart, when they are reunited they must put the past aside to find out who is murdering people and leaving a card behind, the same card that was found in the pocket of Kole’s brother when he was found after committing suicide years before.

This is a police procedural book with a dark murder mystery at the center. The descriptions of the scenes, the intricate details of the murders are raw and gritty, but will keep you intrigued and wanting more with each page as you read. The characters are well developed, some likeable, some not so much. But the chemistry between Nikolai and Hazel can’t be denied. The author expertly intertwines romance among the ugliness of the crime to give you a small reprieve to catch your breath.

I would like to thank Netgalley, Minotaur Books, and Hannah Morrissey for an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange or an honest review.

Thank you so much to Netgalley for advance copy! You all know I am not really a series girlie, but it Morrissey writes it, and I can go back to Black Harbor I am so in!

This is my favorite of the Black Harbor series yet! Morrissey really has a knack for writing dark, gritty and haunting novels. This one is action packed, read like a movie and was so suspenseful. Usually, stories like that lack a bit of character development, but not this. We really have gotten to know our characters within these novels and this one still adds more depth. We still got multiple POVs in this which I think really helps keep the suspense alive!

It is a testament to Morrissey’s skill. I don’t want to give any spoilers, but I was happy with the ending. We got a messy, but realistic ending that was perfection! I will forever be a fan!

This was another great read in this series! It was enjoyable from the beginning until the end. It wasn’t predictable and the plot was well-written.

ARC review - rating 4,5 ⭐️

"The Unlucky Ones" by Hannah Morrissey is the 4th book in the "Black Harbor" series. The books in the series can be read as standalone, but before reading this one you should read at least "Hello, Transcriber".

I received an ARC from St. Martin's Press, Minotaur Books and ALC from Macmillan Audio (via Netgalley).
Opinions from this review are completely my own.

Publication date is 25 March 2025.

Hazel is a police transcriber turned writer, that returns to Black Harbor after 8 years, to help solve the murder of her ex-husband. The investigation is lead by sergent Nikolai Kole, the man she fell in love with
before leaving town.

I enjoyed all the books in the series, but this my favorite (followed by Hello, Transcriber).
This book has a dual POV, the story is told in 1st person by Hazel and in 3rd person by Kole.
The murder investigation uncovered links to other murders, including the one of Kole's brother and more connections to other crimes are revealed.
The story is dark, violent and filled with unexpected twists.
I also listened to the audiobook narrated by Angela Dawe and Robb Moreira and they did a great job helping me immerse in the story. They both did a great job portraing the characters and enhacing the story.

If you like dark crime thrillers with mystery and suspense I recomand this series.
Hopefully there will be more books in the future.