Review of Cold as Hell (Haven’s Rock, #3)
There’s something so wonderfully compelling about a snow-covered sanctuary in the Yukon, especially when it’s filled with intriguing mysteries and complex characters. Cold as Hell, the third installment of the Haven’s Rock series by the talented author, has been making waves in the book community, and I was eager to dive in. After enjoying the layered storytelling in the previous books, I was curious to see how Detective Casey would navigate the challenges ahead, particularly as she balances pregnancy with her dedication to sleuthing. But little did I know, this time, my journey through Haven’s Rock would be a bit of a mixed bag.
At the heart of the book is the familiar struggle of Casey and her husband, Eric, who strive to maintain a sanctuary for those seeking refuge. The stakes are heightened when a chilling crime disrupts the peace: one of the residents is drugged and dragged into the woods, prompting Casey to dig deeper just as a snowstorm blankets the area. The premise piqued my interest from the start, embodying that classic "whodunit" intrigue that can keep you on the edge of your seat.
Yet, as I navigated through Casey’s first-person perspective, I found it hard to connect with her this time around. Reflecting on my reactions, I realized that Casey often veered towards overthinking. Sure, moral dilemmas resonate, but it began to feel like she was overcompensating to prove her idealism. With her vast experience handling the worst kinds of people, I hoped for a more pragmatic protagonist, especially given her current vulnerable state of being eight months pregnant. Frankly, there were times when I found her musings a little whiny, which detracted from my enjoyment.
One shining beacon in the tale was Storm, a delightful character whose charm lightened the otherwise tense atmosphere. Casey’s interactions with him were among the book’s highlights, bringing some much-needed warmth amidst the chilly backdrop. And the return of Sebastian added a richness to the narrative that I deeply appreciated; he’s fast becoming another favorite of mine.
The mystery itself was intriguing, and I enjoyed the discussions surrounding it. The plot certainly had thrills and kept me invested, but the climax felt a bit too superhero-like for my tastes. I found myself rolling my eyes as I watched Casey engage in her “heroics,” questioning her judgment and how it aligned with her character development. While adrenaline-pumping moments have their place in thrillers, a more nuanced approach might have resonated better with me.
On a brighter note, the conclusion offered proper closure—complete with cute, lighthearted scenes that reminded me of the warmth this series initially offered. For those who appreciate a strong sense of community in their thrillers, Cold as Hell has its moments of charm, deftly wrapped in an atmospheric setting that will appeal to many.
In sum, while this installment had its charms and a solid premise, I found myself a bit ambivalent about Casey’s journey. It’s still a book I would recommend to fans of the series, especially those who relish thrilling mysteries wrapped in the bleak beauty of winter. However, newcomers might find it more rewarding to read the previous books first to fully appreciate the evolution of these characters. Thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s (Minotaur Books) for the eARC; my thoughts remain solely my own. Happy reading!
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