Cold as Hell (Haven’s Rock #3) Review: A Chill That Falls Short
As winter coats the world in frosty beauty, I found myself drawn to Cold as Hell, the latest installment in the Haven’s Rock series by the talented author, Jennifer M. Lee. With the allure of a remote sanctuary in the Yukon and the tension of a snowstorm brewing both outside and within the pages, I expected to be swept away by the chilling thrills. However, while there were glimmers of that promise, the read left me wanting more.
The premise is captivating: Detective Casey, her husband Eric, and their close-knit community must navigate danger when a resident goes missing, only for a storm to complicate matters further. There’s an undeniable appeal in an isolated setting where every rustle of the trees could hint at sinister happenings. Yet, as I delved deeper into Casey’s perspective, I found it increasingly challenging to connect with her. The charm of Haven’s Rock, previously a compelling backdrop, felt muted this time around. Despite loving winter’s beauty, I didn’t quite feel the enchantment surrounding it.
Casey’s first-person POV in the present tense was supposed to bring urgency, but more often than not, it veered into the territory of melodrama. Her internal dilemmas sometimes felt excessive, and rather than endearing me to her struggles, they left me feeling fatigued. She slipped into moments of naïve thinking that didn’t quite align with her role as a seasoned detective. It was frustrating to watch her grapple with decisions that seemed grounded in idealism rather than practical experience, especially when stakes are so high.
Despite my issues with Casey’s characterization, there were bright spots worth mentioning. The subplot surrounding the mystery kept me intrigued, and characters like Sebastian emerged as instant favorites. The camaraderie and tension built throughout the investigation created engaging moments, particularly in a snowy forest where the action felt alive. I also appreciated the brief diversion into a third-person POV in the prologue, which added a refreshing layer, though I craved more perspectives like that throughout.
The climax, while action-packed, took a turn I didn’t anticipate and, unfortunately, did not favor. I found myself disappointed in the way the narrative unfolded, as Casey’s determination to be the hero came off as reckless rather than admirable. For a thriller, it felt excessive, detracting from the realism I hoped for.
That said, the ending redeemed much of my previous frustration. With moments of levity and a sweet resolution, it tugged at my heartstrings, ensuring that the journey wasn’t entirely bleak. The camaraderie and love shared among the characters felt heartwarming, a bright spot to close the book on.
In conclusion, Cold as Hell has a solid premise with the potential to captivate many readers who appreciate thrillers set in isolated locales. While I might not have connected with Casey the way I hoped, I can see this book appealing to those who enjoy intense scenarios and character-driven plots. If you’re a fan of the series, this latest entry offers closure and some delightful moments, though newcomers might want to start at the beginning to fully appreciate the character dynamics.
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s (Minotaur Books) for the eARC. This review is voluntary and reflects my honest thoughts. Happy reading, and may your winter adventures be thrilling!
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