by Heather Graham
Series: Krewe of Hunters #25
Narrator: Luke Daniels
Length: 8 hours and 22 minutes
Source: Publisher
Purchase*: Amazon | Audible *affiliate
Heat Level:
Narration: 4 cups
From the dark depths of Hollywood's pastThe crime scene is horrific: the corpse of a young actress, drained of blood and cut in two. LAPD detective Sophie Manning's new case is high-profile and difficult. There's no evidence to work with, and it's a disturbing echo of the infamous Black Dahlia killing. Sophie is burning the candle at both ends, desperate to catch the murderer before he strikes again, when she starts to experience inexplicable visits ... from ghosts.Bruce McFadden has a particular talent that can help Sophie: he can speak with the dead. As a consultant for the FBI's paranormal team, the Krewe of Hunters, he's been tasked with Sophie's case and they're forced to partner up. But Sophie doesn't want his help, and she doesn't want to share his peculiar skill. And she certainly isn't ready for love, despite Bruce's attentions.As the killer taunts the police, Sophie and Bruce will discover that the threat is closer to home than they'd ever realized. Working side by side is the only way they'll stop this deadly sequel.
Pale as Death by Heather Graham is part of the Krewe of Hunters series, but contains a standalone case and romance. Once again Luke Daniels narrates as LAPD detective Sophie Manning hunts down a killer who seems to echo the infamous Black Dahlia killer. Bruce McFadden, a consultant for the FBI steps in to help. Sizzling chemistry, murder, and ghosts delivered another fantastic case.
The characters in Pale as Death are loosely tied to the characters we met in Fade to Black. Bruce McFadden is the brother of Bryan McFadden. The brothers were considering opening a private investigation/security firm together. Both brother’s can see ghosts and speak to their deceased mother regularly. LAPD Detective Sophie Manning gets a murder case where the victim has been brutally mutilated. While on scene, she sees a ghost dressed in a zoot suit who claims he can help her solve the case. Poor Sophia ignores him. She thinking she is going crazy. Again. This isn’t her first ghostly encounter, but her family and a psychologist convinced her it wasn’t real. When Bryan and Marnie see footage on the news, Bruce ends up heading to LA to assist her.
This was a fascinating case that once again surrounded the Hollywood circuit with a film house and wannabe actresses and actors. The killer seems to echo an unsolved murder case know as the Black Dahlia Killings. These brutal murders occurred in the 1940s and the case remains unsolved. I loved the blending of old and new, the frustrating lack of forensic evidence and the different locations we explore. Graham gave us ample suspects, plenty of twists and a touch of danger to throw our hero and heroine together.
I thought the chemistry between Bruce and Sophia was genuine. They both have issues, can see the dearly departed, and share a mutual respect for one another. Like most romantic suspense stories, the romance is fast moving, but I usually just swallow the little blue pill and enjoy the ride. Jackson, the leader of the Krewe once again makes an appearance. When Sophia suspects one of her own (law enforcement) things get very intense.
When I realized Luke Daniels was narrating this miniseries, I knew I needed to grab my headphones. I love Daniels and his wide range of voice, but to be honest, I prefer when he reads fantasy. His male voice for Bruce was just a little too gruff for my liking. However, his pacing, female voices and grasp of the suspenseful moments made this a delightful listen.
If you are looking for an intense murder mystery with a side of romance and paranormal woo-woo, you cannot go wrong with Pale as Death.
Fun Fact/Tip: Within the Krewe of Hunters series there are mini-series feature related characters or location. This mini began with Fade to Black. The next novel, Echoes of Evil, releases September 18th. When looking at the overall series you will notice the mini-series within have similar covers and or titles.
Sizzling chemistry, murder, and ghosts delivered another fantastic case in PALE AS DEATH by Heather Graham #loveaudiobooks #NewRelease 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 seriously need to start this series, but I’m anal so I’d have to start with Book #1, LOL.
Kimberly
I feel you, but really not necessary since each book and mini series features a different crew, setting and team.
Suzanne @ The Bookish Libra
I’ve only read one Heather Graham book so far but I really enjoyed it so I might have to check this one out, especially since it works well as a standalone. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on it!
Kimberly
Nice. I really enjoy her romantic paranormal suspense series.
Katherine @ I Wish I Lived in a Library
I just got Fade to Black and I’m so excited! I love the mini series part of the Krewe series. It’s so fun. This sounds amazing and I really need to get to Fade to Black very soon!
Kimberly
Wahoo and yes I do too. It keeps it fresh, plus Graham always adds interesting tidbits regarding location and history.
Sophia Rose
Definitely like your mini-series fun fact and that Daniels is the narrator.
Kimberly
Happy to share and yep, I always read these, but had to go audio.
Angela Adams
Heather Graham is always on my “TBR” list. Thanks for the post.
Kimberly
Auto-buy here 🙂
sjhigbee
I keep seeing this author’s name cropping up – I’ll have to track down one of her books!
Kimberly
Oh you’ve got to read her 🙂
Northwoman
I’m trying to read this series; I’ve bought some on audio. I’m excited about the Luke Daniels narration. Anne – Books of My Heart
Kimberly
Sweet. I have some favs within them. I’ve read them all.
sherry fundin
Hard to go wrong with Heather Graham. I do like her mix of genres and her characters seem to stick with me. I am not a huge fan of the Hollywood scene, but when it comes to murder…well, you know me. 🙂
Kimberly
Hehe..yes, the famous murder got me.
Laura Thomas
What a coincidence! I just came across this earlier on Amazon and added it to my list! LOL I love her books and this sounds like another thrilling read.
Kimberly
Woot!
Debbie Haupt - The Reading Frenzy
Nice review I’m so far behind on these but maybe I’ll get them in audio if Luke Daniels is narrating . Thanks Kim
Kimberly
I know he is doing this little mini-series. Usually I read them.
Ethan
I really like the idea of a mystery that surrounds Old Hollywood. It was such an interesting point in history that really lends itself to crime stories.
Kimberly
Agreed. Graham is really good at including history, historical sites and tidbits into her tales
Melliane
I really need to read more of her books
Kimberly
*nods*
Nick
The case in this one sounds so intriguing. I like that it blends together a present and past case each. I can imagine how that would keep you on your toes. Good to know this can be read as a standalone as I’m definitely interested. Lovely review, Kim!
Kimberly
Absolutely Nick..jump in!
Tyler H. Jolley
Writing genuine feeling romance is so much more difficult that you’d think. Graham is fantastic at weaving not only the romance but a true mystery into a series.
Kimberly
Agreed.
Nadene
Romantic suspense mixed with paranormal interesting combination. I have been wanting to pick up this series. So many books so little time.
Kimberly
Thankfully they all work as standalone, so jump in wherever ya like 🙂