Caffeinated Reviewer

A SHOCKING MURDER IN AN AFFLUENT HEISINKI SUBURB HAS TIES TO WITCHCRAFT AND THE OCCULT IN THIS THRILLING US DEBUT FROM FINNISH AUTHOR MAX SEECK.

A best-selling author's wife has been found dead in a gorgeous black evening gown, sitting at the head of an empty dining table. Her most chilling feature - her frozen in a ghastly smile.

At first it seems as though a deranged psychopath is reenacting the gruesome murders from the Witch Hunt trilogy, best sellers written by the victim's husband. But investigator Jessica Niemi soon realizes she's not looking for a single killer but rather for dozens of believers in a sinister form of witchcraft who know her every move and are always one step ahead.

As the bodies start piling up, Jessica knows they won't stop until they get what they want. And when her dark past comes to light, Jessica finds herself battling her own demons while desperately trying to catch a coven of killers before they claim their next victim.

Narrated by Cady McClain, The Witch Hunter by Max Seeck delivered a disturbing murder mystery and introduced us to investigator Jessica Niemi.

It seems a deranged psychopath is reenacting the gruesome murders from a renowned crime author’s bestselling Witch Hunt trilogy, and his wife might be the first victim.

First, I loved the narration, and from the opening scene we were pulled into the tale we see the moments before the first murder. The author’s writing style is smooth and delivered in thrilling 3D, giving the listener all the grisly details and emotions of the characters.

We meet detective Jessica Niemi as she first examines the body and throughout the story, Seeck fleshes her out, sharing details of past events that have forever shaped her into the investigator she is today. The scenes from Venice gave substance to who Jessica is, but sometimes it took me a minute to realize what was happening.

The story that unfolds is atmospheric, wonderfully detailed horror and true crime detective work as Jessica, along with her superior officer Chief Inspector Erne Mickson, worked the case and consulted each other. I felt like I had slipped into an old black and white film and it was addictive.

The concept of a killer mimicking an author’s work isn’t new, but the trilogy and Seeck added a fresh take with twists and brilliant detail that kept me listening.

Cady McClain brought Jessica to life with her narration, giving her voice and additional depth. We could sense tension, fear and frustration as the suspense increased. She added another level of enjoyment to this Nordic Noir.

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

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