by Heather Graham
Series: Krewe of Hunters #21
Genres: Paranormal Romance
Source: Publisher
Purchase*: Amazon *affiliate
Buried alive…
As a teenager, Vickie Preston survived an attack by a serial killer. That was the first time she saw a ghost. Now the city of Boston is being terrorized—someone is kidnapping women and burying them alive, but cruelly leaving a glimmer of hope for the authorities by sending a clue about their location. Vickie is pulled into the investigation when her name is mentioned in one of the notes. And as a historian, she has the knowledge to help uncover the graves the killer known as the Undertaker is choosing. But she also has another, unique lead: the spirit of one of the victims is appearing to her in dreams.
Special Agent Griffin Price is on the case for the Krewe of Hunters, the FBI's special unit for paranormal investigators. He feels particularly protective of Vickie, since their shared past is connected to the threat that currently surrounds them. With the killer accelerating his plans, time is running out for more victims hidden around the city. Vickie is becoming closer with Griffin, but she's getting too close to the danger, and every breath could be her last.
DYING BREATH by Heather Graham is the twenty-first novel in the Krewe of Hunters series, but don’t let that discourage you as each book works as a standalone. Graham takes us to Boston, Massuchest and delivers creepy murders where victims are buried alive. Historical tidbits, a race to solve clues and a side dish of romance made this paranormal romance a page turner.
Almost eight years ago, then teen Vickie Preston was almost killed by a serial killer. It was the first time she saw a ghost. Vickie is a historian and author who also spends time with troubled youth. Special Agent Griffin Price is working the Undertaker case along with Andrew Jackson. Dubbed the Undertaker this serial killer buries his female victims alive and then leaves cryptic clues tied to the cities history to find them. Their newest clue directly mentions Vickie. Price immediately recognizes her name. He was the cop who wounded the serial killer on that fateful day eight years ago.
I loved the cryptic clues and piecing together the mystery to save each victim. Graham delightfully tied in historical tidbits bringing Boston and its history to life. The case was a particularly good one tying in the past and present. The race against time, the links to Vickie and cast of suspects kept me engaged.
We have two ghosts interact with Vickie and the special agents. The first has ties with Vickie’s past and the second is the first victim in the new murders. I always love this aspect of ghostly entities assisting in solving the crime.
Secondary characters added interest, offered red herrings and helped further the investigation. The who took me by surprise. It was clever and only after did I pick up subtle hints.
While Vickie and Griffin share a connection from the past I found the romance to be the weakest thread in this tale. Both characters are intelligent, and Vickie impressed me with her knowledge and ability to piece together clues, but I didn’t feel the chemistry. The romance is served on the side, which for me isn’t a problem, but I would have enjoyed it if they were just friends. Since the next two books will feature them, I am hoping I get a chance to connect more.
The case came to a satisfying conclusion in DYING BREATH, but the epilogue has me very excited for the next book. The next two books, DARK RITES, and WICKED DEEDS will feature Griffin and Vickie, so this is the perfect place to jump in.
Dying Breath by Heather Graham offered a page-turning murder mystery Share on X
About Kimberly
Kimberly is a coffee loving book addict who reads and listens to fictional stories in all genres. Whovian, Ravenclaw, Howler and proud Nonna. She owns and manages Caffeinated PR. The coffee is always on and she is ready to chat. BlueSky | Facebook | Instagram
Darlene
I recently discovered Heather Grahm (I loved A Magical Christmas), and I’ve wanted to read this series so good to know that each works as a standalone.
Lark
I’m glad this one kept you guessing! I look forward to reading it, and seeing what she does with the next two. It’s unusual for her to carry a couple on into the next book as anything but secondary characters.
The Bibliophile Babe
Sounds like an engaging read!
Sophia Rose
I love the idea that it is paranormal mixed with FBI policing work and that she has a historical connection especially in Boston. Good to know that there are mini series arcs in the series so one can jump in on interesting sounding ones.
Laura Thomas
It’s time for a trip to the bookstore. I’m missing the last four books in this series. My favorite one. Heather has some amazing covers, doesn’t she! I enjoyed reading your review. You’ve got me all anxious to dive back into this series.
Angela Adams
Heather Graham is awesome at writing suspense! Thanks for the post.
Mary Kirkland
It’s been forever since I’ve read one of her books. Sounds good.
Katherine
Wasn’t this a creepy read! I think it’s one of my favorites in the Krewe series. The romance was definitely on the weaker side but the history made me so happy! I’ve always liked how Graham does a different couple in each of the Krewe series but I’m excited to see some more of Griffin and Vickie.
Heidi
Sounds like a fun and exciting read. I know what you mean about the romance being on the side. I feel like it is better to do without than to do it half assed.
Stephanie
This sounds like a great addition to the series! I have enjoyed each book in it so far. Don’t you love it when the who of a mystery is a surprise? I am definitely going to have to pick this one up. Hopefully the romance builds a bit as the couple shows up in the next two books!
Ethan
I share your affinity for mysteries with a supernatural twist. Despite the weaker romance side of things, this book sounds fantastic! I’m also eager to see how she evolves the two characters in the next books.
kindlemom1
I really need to get back into reading this author. I really do like her PNR stuff. Glad this was a good read for you Kim and I hope you had a lovely weekend!
Debbie Haupt
I have to get back to this series but its good to know that I could skip around a bit.
Thanks Kim
Ailyn Koay
oh heather, you have done it once again. love her work
Nadene
I have read the author’s work, but I have never had the pleasure of reading this series. Another series to add to my tbr. Great review.
Nick
I love how much you love this author, Kim! The case sounds solid here too. It’s a bummer about the romance being the weakest thread though. It doesn’t sound like it took away from your enjoyment too much though.
RO
Heather Graham is still doing her thing, and love your review. Hugs…and hope you’re feeling a little better.
Silvia
I still have to give this author a go, so it’s good to know I don’t necessarily have to catch up with the whole series to enjoy each instalment 🙂
Cindy
I love this series and also that each book is a standalone, I have to put this on my to read list.
Trish
So good when you don’t guess the who! Sounds like a great series, and great that they work as stand alones also. Great review as always 🙂
blodeuedd
21! And I have not read one 😉