Close Her Eyes by Lisa Regan

*** My Review ***

Get ready for another thrilling ride as Detective Josie Quinn is thrust into action once again, leaving behind her plans for a night out with her beloved husband Noah and her twin sister Trinity, as a lifeless body is discovered next to the tranquil waters of Kettlewell Creek. With her instincts on high alert, Detective Josie Quinn is about to embark on another addictive and pulse-pounding journey.

As Detective Josie Quinn delves into the brutal murder of Sharon Eddy, a nineteen-year-old girl found dead by the serene Kettlewell Creek with no known enemies, you’ll be right there investigating each clue. But when a mysterious burnt mark is discovered on Sharon’s hip, Detective Josie’s intuition kicks in and she uncovers a shocking link to a past case involving the Medical Examiner, Anya Feist, who also bears the same mark.

With the discovery of yet another body marked in the same way as previous victims, Detective Josie’s loved ones are placed in grave danger, escalating the stakes and pushing her to relentlessly pursue the killer as the investigation unfolds. As the police investigation into a serial killer unfolds, it becomes increasingly clear that the case is not as straightforward as it seems. When the case starts to intersect with a cold case that Josie’s twin sister is currently working on, readers will be left wondering what other strange coincidences will arise in this captivating and suspenseful novel.

To begin with, “Close Her Eyes” is a captivating addition to the Josie Quinn series and although it can be read as a standalone, readers may miss out on the rich character development and relationships built up over the previous books. Lisa Regan has a rare talent for weaving together intricate and unpredictable plots that keep you on the edge of your seat, and this latest installment is no exception. The story is both heartbreaking and thrilling, with a cleverly crafted mystery that will have you guessing until the very end.

The plot of “Close Her Eyes” is intriguing, starting slowly as Josie and her team struggle to find who could have murdered a young woman and left a horrible mark on her body. As the plot thickens and the investigation deepens, readers will find themselves increasingly invested in the mysterious and twisted story of “Close Her Eyes.” With each turn of the page, the plot thickens and the pulse quickens, as the author expertly weaves a web of suspense that ensnares readers in its grip. The tension builds to a fever pitch with every passing chapter, leaving readers on the edge of their seats and desperate to uncover the secrets lurking just beneath the surface.

But just when they think they have it all figured out, the author deftly throws a curveball that sends them reeling and wondering what will happen next. The pace is relentless, the twists are dizzying, and the stakes are higher than ever as the story hurtles towards its thrilling and unexpected conclusion. With a masterful touch, the author keeps readers guessing until the very last page, leaving them breathless and hungry for more.

Although the book doesn’t offer much action until halfway through and then again at the end, there are still plenty of entertaining moments. The camaraderie and teamwork displayed by Josie and her colleagues is particularly enjoyable, and readers will continue to learn more about the main characters as the story unfolds.

Furthermore, readers will be delighted with the exceptional character development that continues in “Close Her Eyes,” as the author masterfully crafts each character with subtlety and nuance, allowing readers to form a genuine connection with them. Josie Quinn, the series’ main character, is a tough, no-nonsense detective who has been through her fair share of personal and professional challenges. Yet, despite her toughness, she also has a vulnerability and emotional depth that make her a compelling and relatable character.

Another supporting character, Anya Feist, is a medical examiner who has her own past traumas to overcome. Through her interactions with Josie and the rest of the team, readers get a sense of her strength and determination, as well as her compassion for the victims she examines. Rather than relying on pompous physical descriptions, the characters are revealed through their actions and personalities, making them all the more relatable and real. Every book is like catching up with a group of old friends. Josie Quinn is one of the most beloved fictional characters in the genre.

In many ways, “Close Her Eyes” represents the very best of the crime thriller genre, boasting a gripping story, intriguing characters, and an expertly crafted sense of suspense and mystery. The author’s realistic writing style draws readers into the story, immersing them in a world of detailed and expertly explained murders that may not be for the faint of heart.

Moreover, the author’s attention to detail and ability to convey complex information in an easily digestible manner is truly impressive. By taking the time to explain police work details and investigation-related terms, Lisa Regan ensures that readers are fully immersed in the world of the novel and can follow along with the investigation without confusion or frustration. This attention to detail not only adds to the authenticity of the story but also demonstrates the author’s dedication to providing an engaging and well-crafted narrative.

While “Close Her Eyes” has many positive aspects, some readers may find that the lack of action in the first half of the book is a drawback. Additionally, the abundance of characters and storylines can be overwhelming and difficult to keep track of. However, despite these potential drawbacks, the author’s skillful writing and attention to detail make this a worthwhile read for fans of crime thrillers.

“Close Her Eyes” is an enthralling and thought-provoking addition to the Josie Quinn series. The author’s ability to balance the intense investigation with the personal lives of the characters creates a gripping and emotionally resonant story. Readers will find themselves fully invested in the complex characters and the unpredictable twists and turns of the plot. With its exploration of the nature of justice and the intricacies of human relationships, “Close Her Eyes” is a must-read for fans of crime thrillers.