2026 ARC Reviews

Thank you to NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for an advanced copy of this title.
The blurb promises a high-stakes standoff with five people held hostage inside a cafe, and while that is the central event, the story takes a much different angle. Instead of getting a tense survival scenario from the hostages' point of view, the narrative stays on the outside, focusing on the detective running the investigation and the loved ones waiting for news. Hannah’s point of view was particularly interesting to follow and provided a strong anchor for this outside perspective.
Because of this structure, the pacing is noticeably slow and the middle sections dragged for me. The author leans heavily into deep character development, but there are also a few side stories that feel like completely irrelevant filler. Certain details are brought up several times, making it seem like they will be an integral part of the plot, but they never amount to anything - not even red herrings or meaningful backstory. When the twist finally drops, it isn't particularly shocking or unique. I did appreciate how well the loose ends were tied up, though. The resolution makes sense and wraps up the plot neatly without leaving any glaring holes.
If you like deep character studies, shifting perspectives, and slow-burn mysteries, then you will enjoy this book.
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