A review by paulasnotsosecretdiary
The Book of Cold Cases by Simone St. James

adventurous dark emotional mysterious tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

The Book of Cold Cases will enthrall readers who were chilled and delighted by The Sundown Motel. 

This latest ghost story by Simone St. James explores the history behind an accused female serial killer, Beth Greer, and a blogger, Shea. Shea is a survivor of an attack by a serial killer that occurred when she was a child; she processes her trauma through her blog, The Book of Cold Cases, writing about murders. Shea and Beth cross paths when Beth comes to the doctor's office where Shea works for a check-up.

When Shea approaches Beth about interviewing her for The Book of Cold Cases at Beth's home, Greer Manor, Shea gets more than she bargained for, not only in Beth but in another unseen inhabitant of the house. As the two women confront their pasts, Shea realizes there is more to the murders Beth was accused of committing.

Simone St. James examines relationships between sisters and how past trauma shapes and guides current behavior throughout the story. The plot twists and turns to keep the reader engaged, and the pacing keeps the story and mystery intriguing. 

Expand filter menu Content Warnings