Review of Dead Against Her (Bree Taggert, #5) by Kendra Elliot
Sometimes a book grips you from the first sentence, and Dead Against Her is a prime example of that phenomenon. Kendra Elliot opens this fifth installment in the Bree Taggert series from the chilling perspective of the killer. That stunning choice sets the tone for a gripping plot that envelops you in suspense and keeps you guessing. As someone who delights in the intricate dance of crime fiction, I couldn’t resist diving in!
Reuniting with Bree, Matt, and a cast of familiar characters felt like coming home. I had missed their dynamics and was eager to see how they would navigate the latest challenges thrown their way. The beauty of Elliot’s writing is her ability to make you feel like part of this intimate circle. There’s a comforting familiarity bedded in tension, and as the layers of the plot unfold, you find yourself torn between the heart-pounding drama and the allure of character development.
One of the remarkable aspects of Dead Against Her is the way Elliot balances suspense with personal stories. While I occasionally felt overwhelmed by the multitude of swirling plotlines, there was a constant undercurrent of emotional engagement that kept me invested. Bree’s journey isn’t just about solving a crime; it’s about facing her past, dealing with family drama, and navigating relationships that grow and sometimes even falter under pressure. It’s a testament to Elliot’s skill in crafting believable, relatable characters.
The pacing of the novel is expertly done; it’s a page-turner in the truest sense. The moments of intensity are masterfully interspersed with quieter, reflective scenes that allow for emotional connection. By the time I reached the climax, I was so immersed that I almost forgot I was following a murder investigation! That’s the magic of this author; even in a suspenseful narrative, she never loses sight of the human element.
The romance in this book felt like a supportive thread rather than a central theme. By now, Bree and Matt’s relationship is well-established, and I appreciated that we also get a glimpse of budding romances among secondary characters. It adds another layer to the story without overshadowing the main plot—a delicate balance that Elliot handles with finesse.
However, I did find the ending somewhat lacking in closure. I wanted a little more resolution—perhaps an opportunity for Bree to reclaim her power over the narrative and stand up to certain characters. But as I reflected on Bree’s essence as a heroine, I understood why she chose a different path. It felt true to her character, even if it left me yearning for that cheese-who-makes-everything-right moment.
If you’re considering starting this series, I implore you to begin at the beginning. Kendra Elliot has crafted a world so rich and engaging that each installment builds beautifully on the last. I wholeheartedly recommend Dead Against Her to anyone who loves heart-stopping suspense blended with well-drawn characters and emotional depth. This story resonated with me long after I turned the last page, reminding me why I love diving into a good book. Grab your copy, settle in, and prepare for a ride—you won’t be disappointed!
Discover more about Dead Against Her (Bree Taggert, #5) on GoodReads >>