Cover Image: Can't Go Back

Can't Go Back

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Webb knocks it out of the park with this final installment (boo!) of the Devlin and Falco series. I thought I had it figured out, but she threw the perfect curve right at the end. Still one of my favorite suspense authors.

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The perfect close to a nail-biting trilogy of Devilin and Falco presented eximiously by Debra Webb. And did I mention, all due credits to her previous books in the series, I got in, as O' Grady would quote, "skin deep", so enthusiastic about solving the murders? Debra has done it again, with her words and her work to put the readers on top and ensure they sweated their palms out through the night.

"Nothing would stay buried forever. And you couldn't go back for do-overs. Not when someone had died because of your mistake"

At Chablis Way, Birmingham, a house in the neighborhood was set ablaze overnight, killing the wife and the child residing in, leaving the husband grievously injured. The problem? The husband is stubborn with his head and his mouth that he did the murder, cold-blooded when evidences and witnesses speak otherwise. Kerri and Falco have to dig deep, but racing back to the past could mean inviting the nightmares so badly Falco wanted to forget.
Something as Debra would quote, a deja vu.
What happens through when they go ahead with digging the skeletons on the road ahead flocked by Boothe's loved ones who are shielding secrets with lessons from Kerri's own past to trust no one forms the crux of the story.
It was fast paced. Thrilling. Laced with romance that I loved to cherish (Trust me, since book one, I have been madly rooting for LuKe's cannon ship to happen, and I hadn't even rooted for my uncle and aunt that much :P). Engaging. A perfect brain tester. The perfect examiner to put your detective on the road. Nail biting. And heart breaking.
In addition, there was exceptional maturity with Luke, and I couldn't help but fall for the way he grew through the trilogy, with Kerri. Oh, and not to forget Sadie's growth too. Every character stressed on you the various shades of the very humans you might be living with, thinking you are safe. The character's were so well developed, digging me deep into asking the questions when we felt it wrong. Ego, lust, gratitude, grief, regret, desperation, fear, concern, worry, acceptance, humility, obsession and love were all beautifully laced into a plot I loved solving so damn much.
I solved it, but again, Debra did it, with her impeccable and spiffing twist.
I loved, loved, loved, loved, loved it very much and would recommend it to anyone who loves the flavours of mystery and suspense. Thank you Debra for this, and as much as I am sad this trilogy closed in, I cried over the befitting ending it deserved.
Thank you again NetGalley, for providing me with Debra's wonder in the trilogy. #NetGalley #GoneTooFar #Trilogy #DevilinAndFalco

PS: Can be read as a stand alone. But I feel reading the previous ones helps you connect more with the recurring characters' emotions.

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Can’t Go Back brings the dynamic duo of Devlin and Falco into another investigation which has them in turmoil right from word go. A mother and daughter have died in a fire that doesn't look accidental. The victim is the daughter of an ex-police chief, and no matter how many murders are encountered daily but enquiring into the murder of a young child never gets easier. The raging fire was not accidental, an accelerant is detected on site immediately but the father, an ex undercover cop is rumored to dealing drugs, and the patchy relationship of the couple is called to question. It is however the two grandmothers in the story that was brilliantly portrayed, as once again, the powerful force of motherhood comes into play.

Devlin and Falco have grown in their partnership both officially and personally and their friendship and love were easy to delve into. Falco’s past comes roaring into the investigation and I loved how twisted the author winds the story without much heart-pounding action. It was heartening to see how loyal Devlin is towards her partner and supports him as the undercover activities unearth a part of his life which Falco would love to keep buried. There are personal tensions in Falco’s life too that ramps up the pressure and the ending with the reveal came as a big surprise.

This is book # 3 in Devlin and Falco series and can be read as a stand-alone but to understand the character sketch and the growth of their mutual respect, it is best advised to read them in order which reminds me to pick up the book #1 ASAP.

Can’t Go Back is an exciting page-turner with the puzzle pieces forming the big picture only at the climax.

Many thanks to Net Galley, Thomas & Mercer, and the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.

This review is published in my blog https://rainnbooks.com/, Goodreads, Amazon India, Book Bub, Medium.com, Facebook, and Twitter.

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Can't Go Back is an action-packed addition to the Devlin & Falco series. Kerri Devlin and Luke Falco are detectives in the Major Investigations Division of the Birmingham, Alabama Police Department. The chief calls them to be in charge of a case where the victims are his friends and needs their expertise to solve. This is a case of a former undercover cop's wife and child dying in a fire that is obviously arson and personal. There are several people that they need to interview but no one is really talking. The husband/father was badly injured and is not talking. Until he confesses. But it doesn't add up. This story has many layers to unpeel and many surprises along the way. The strange thing is the father was part of of Luke's old unit when he was undercover and the head is still his old Lieutenant. And their relationship did not end well. Can't Go Back is a real page-turner and edge of the seat read as one clue leads to another and a resolution that is complicated and multifaceted. This is a mystery well done with visits from characters of the previous books. Sweet ending and another winner. I feel that it is best to read this series in order.
I received a complimentary ARC from Thomas & Mercer. All thoughts and opinions are mine only.

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I am saddened that this is the last book for Devlin and Falco, but what an amazing finale. Two strong main characters; Kerri Devlin, a female detective who is a badass and her partner in life and work, Luke Falco. Luke has seen the worst the world can offer, but finds a new beginning through his relationship with Kerri. The house of a former detective has been deliberately set on fire with his wife and child inside. Although he tries to save them, it is too late. Is someone trying to send a message to the former detective and if so, what? It is Kerri and Luke’s job to investigate the murders, even if it means questioning other members of law enforcement. They will face harassment, uncooperative witnesses, and threats to their own safety, but will persevere until the final surprise ending. I thought I had everything figured out, but once again Ms. Webb proved me wrong. A truly complex and twisted mystery. I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (by paytonpuppy)

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As the relationship between Kerri and Luke gets more serious, Luke's past comes back to center stage. I'm of two minds on this particular turn. On one hand, I really wanted to get into his history but on the other, once again we have another case that is intertwined with the lives of the detectives. But, it felt more natural and less forced like it did in the previous two books. I appreciated how the answers weren't always clear cut. You know tidy boxes aren't my thing. I really liked how the characters are developing, their relationship, and how the approach their cases. Another review states this is the final book in the series. I hope they are wrong because I finally feel like the series foundation is set look forward to seeing the characters grow and the series expand.

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This book was full of twists and turns. If you read the blurb, a mother and daughter die (in a fire) and the father/husband takes the blame. But they soon realize he is lying. Then the mothers of the husband and the wife tell lies. Everyone in the book is lying and pretty soon you have NO idea what happened.

I really liked the relationship between the detectives. This is the third installment in a series, and you don't HAVE to have read the other two, but I wish I had. I feel lke I was really missing something. However, I enjoyed this so much that I am going to go back to the first book in the series, and start from the beginning. If you havent read the others, I suggest you do that to. Something tells me you will get a lot more enjoyment from this book!

I want to thank the author, the publisher and #netgalleyfor the ARC which did not impact my review.

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Kerri and Luke have been called to investigate a double homicide. A mother and her child are dead because of a terrible fire. The fire was arson. The deeper they get into the investigation the more they realize everyone is lying.

I really enjoy this series. Basically because I am sort of in love with Luke. He has such a bad past but he has a huge heart and he wants to be the best he can be. Luke’s past is ever present in this novel. And it just might come back to bite him! You must read this to find out!

This is just and all around good mystery which will have you wondering what the devil is about to happen…I mean bad cops and all! And what kind of secret are these grandmothers keeping! Geez!

This story keeps you guessing until the end…basically because no one is telling the truth!

Need a good mystery with a kick! Grab your copy today!

I received this novel from the publisher for a honest review.

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4.5 STARS

Detectives Kerri Devlin and Luke Falco are called to investigate a double homicide. A house fire has left a woman and her young daughter dead. The husband was badly injured, but he survived.

Upon questioning, the man admits that he killed his wife and daughter ... but the detectives don't believe him for a minute. Something is off ....

Speaking to the entire family on both sides, friends, neighbors, all seem to be lying .. but about what? Why? Who or what are they trying to protect?

What they do find is that there is a connection to Falco's past. Eight years ago a Confidential Informant was found in his bed ... dead. He has no real memory of that time, but there are things that are reminiscent of this current case.

Falco needs the truth .... he doesn't want to jeopardize his relationship with Devlin. And Devlin needs to know to solve the current case.

This is well-written with an intriguing story line. Full of twists and turns that rival a carnival ride, it's easy to think you know who-dun-it ... not so easy, though. The characters are fleshed out and bring a hint of credibility to the plot. The conclusion was quite a surprise and unexpected. Although 3rd in the series, this is easily read as a stand alone. I do recommend starting at the beginning .. to pick up more about the characters' backstories.

Many thanks to the author / Thomas & Mercer / Amazon Publishing / Netgalley for the digital copy of this crime fiction. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.

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Devlin and Falco are at it again in Debra Webb's third and final installment in the series. A homicide that they are investigating has ties with Falco's past. The details are slowly introduced, but it drives the tension in this murder mystery. The relationship that has evolved between Detectives Devlin and Falco was a welcoming addition to the story. It solidified the closeness that has developed through the past two books. I loved this! I really enjoyed learning about Falco's past since we got a glimpse of Devlin's in the first couple of books. It rounded out the couple and really made you love this pair of Detectives.
Debra Webb knows how to weave a story where you are invested in the characters. You feel like your right there as they investigate a murder. She has a way of writing mystery where you never know who did it or why it happened until the very end. She knows how to keep you guessing which I absolutely love.
I will be sad to see this series end since I loved these characters, but I look forward to the next book by this wonderful author. I have absolutely enjoyed every book of hers. I would highly recommend this book. You don't have to read the others before this to enjoy this book. What a thrill ride! Thanks Debra Webb!

#CantGoBack
#NetGalley

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Can't Go Back by Debra Webb is the third and final book. (very disappointed this is to be the last) Detectives Kerri Devlin and Luke Falco are dedicated to their jobs, although they both have misgivings about some of the events in their past.

Devlin and Falco are investigating the death of a mother and her child, Allison and Leah, in a house fire. The husband/father, Logan Boothe a former police officer, was found unconscious out on the lawn but a neighbor but upon waking he was told about the fire and his family inside and ran into the house the burning house. After he awakens in the hospital, he tells Falco that he is the one who set the fire. Also, Allison and Logan's mothers are acting suspiciously. Blaming each other and withholding the truth.

This story brings back memories from Falco's past when he was deep undercover. He is ready to face the truth from those days when he trusted his LT. The bond between Devlin and Falco is a wonderful part of the story that brings these two together while coming to grips with the past.

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Amazing book! Loved this story and highly recommend it! I look forward to more books by this author!

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I was so sad to hear this would conclude the Devlin & Falco series, waaay :( I wanted it to continue. I love the growth in each book, the feeling of people I know or want to know. This one was a heart wrencher for me and not just because its the end of the series. I was getting just as frustrated as Delvin and Falco as they were lied to at every turn, half info given when info was shared. When stuff starts happening to our team, (Delvin and Falco) I had to stop, it was no, please don't take that route. I am so glad it shifted even if it did get darker. I promise I am not trying to confuse you, its just hard to share my emotions and thoughts without giving spoilers! Oh Falco, Falco, Falco you have been through the ringer and come out the other side, on your own merits my man. (wish you were my man, ha) Delvin gave you the grace and openness you need to accept the good person you truly are. Watching Delvin having her partners back 110 no matter what, was a refreshing change from how many betrayal and trust issues are handled. Win!! Having the rest if Delvins family info brought up to date and seeing Sadie were also wins! I so want to see what happens to Dog, and the future for Delvin, daughter and Falco and his son.....really this is the end? Thank you for the arc, I freely volunteer my thoughts and opinions.

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Thank you Netgalley and Thomas & Mercer for the chance to read Can't go back by Debra Webb. This is the 3rd and last book in the Devlin & Falco series, and I am bit surprised such a great series is ending so soon.
Kerri and Luke have jelled as partners, both professionally and personally. A murder case they are trying to solve ends up taking a twist when a connection to Falco's past pops up and could threaten the partnership. I loved the relationship Kerri and Luke have, and really enjoyed this trilogy. I hope this is not the last we see of Devlin & Falco!!!

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Debra Webb has done it again with the next book in The Devlin and Falco Series. Can’t Go Back is the third book and is well worth the wait. Webb is the master at writing suspenseful mysteries that will keep you looking for more. She will take you on a roller coaster ride and you better buckle up!! From the very start the twist and turns begin and they don’t stop until the very unexpected ending. She brings true to life characters and their stories to her intriguing books and also throws in some romance to warm your heart. She will have you looking twice at your neighbors. This is a wonderful ending to a terrific series but I am hoping for more!

Thank you NetGalley, Debra Webb and Thomas and Mercer for an advanced copy of this great book in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion.
#netgalley #cantgoback #debrawebb #thomasandmercer #arc

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This review was originally posted on <a href="https://booksofmyheart.net/2021/12/09/%f0%9f%8e%a7-cant-go-back-by-debra-webb/" target="_blank"> Books of My Heart</a>
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<i>Review copy was received from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.</i>

I am still loving the <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/series/293805-devlin-falco" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em><strong>Devlin & Falco</strong></em></a> series.  We get the point of view from multiple characters this time.  The main characters are still Kerri Devlin and Luke Falco and we get both of their viewpoints.  We also get a bit from Jana Scott, the mother of the homicide victim.   Devlin and Faldo work very well together. They are hard-working and professional.

Devlin & Falco are also expanding their personal relationship, trying out living together over the Thanksgiving holiday when Kerri's daughter is out of town with her father.  I really enjoy how supportive and trusting they are with each other. As cops, they each have bad things in their past and aren't happy with everything they have done or seen.  I love how there was no hesitation with either of them to believe the best of the other and have their back.  They are truly partners.

<strong>Can't Go Back</strong> has the investigation of a homicide of a woman and child. The husband worked in undercover narcotics, with the same group Falco did about 10 years ago.  Many of the old undercover team, who are secretive and insular, need to be questioned about the husband. It brings up the worst time in Falco's career.  It's a dangerous and difficult case with layers of other things obstructing the truth.

Sadie Cross shows up again as a source and support for them on this case. They are building their friends and allies.    I really love this series, but I would recommend reading it in order.  One of the descriptions on Goodreads shows this as the final installment, but I would definitely read more. The series is available in Kindle Unlimited, including the audio version.

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Can't Go Back, book 3 in the Devin and Falco series, by Debra Webb is perfection. The fast paced story draws the reader into the investigation and holds them there. The character development is honest and interesting. Webb successfully weaves together multiple story arcs into an explosive conclusion filled with unexpected twists.

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Can't Go Back is the finale of the recently published Debra Webb trilogy of the Devlin and Falco series. Having no prior knowledge of this detective team makes the previous cases and events unknown. This time Devlin and Falco attend a double homicide that just doesn’t add up. Why does the husband confess despite the evidence to the contrary? As the investigation develops, little makes sense and even a link to Falco’s past adds to the confusion and danger. All involved are telling lies as the detective partners try to work out their case and their personal lives. A solid enough police procedural, even if the murderer was no real surprise. At times the narrative seemed fixated on the protagonist’s relationship at the cost to the crime mystery, so only a three-star rating. With thanks to Thomas & Mercer and the author, for an uncorrected advanced review copy for review purposes. As always, the opinions herein are totally my own and are made without fear or favour.

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Can't go Back  by Debra Webb is the third book in the series. Like any good thriller we are right into the action. However there is a very deft fill in of the characters and place,  And boom, we are into the next case.  

Luke and Debra make a great detective team, and as it happens they are not only that. Their relationship is also developing. And while Tori - Debra's daughter is away, they are trying the live - in arrangement.  I really liked seeing their relationship growing and the way Debra is there to show her trust and support of Luke.

And Luke needs that, because as they chase down a grisly case of arson and murder, they find that Luke's undercover work from some time ago is also somehow mingling with the new case and making it all that extra bit dangerous.

I was happy to see Sadie who we got to know in previous books had a small cameo contribution and to see how her life was turning out.

A riveting read, with lots of twists and turns. There is more than one bad guy and of course with Luke and Debra on the trail, they won't get away with anything. And while part of a series could be read as a stand alone.

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This one kept me guessing! Debra Webb is turning up the intrigue with the final book in her highly addictive Devlin and Falco series with CAN'T GO BACK. The two main detectives are always a favorite of this series and as their relationship grows and secrets unravel, they are on the verge of big changes. I loved this entire series and am sad to see it end ... but what an ending! This book was fast paced, intense and held surprise after surprise. Unputdownable!

Detective Kerri Devlin and her partner and significant other Detective Luke Falco are in rare form in this final addition to the series as Falco's past comes back to haunt him while in the midst of their current case. Kerri is supportive and steadfast, and Luke allows himself to be sensitive and honest in a way he previously wouldn't have been. The main case this books centers on is filled with twists and turns and revealing secrets.

I highly recommend this book and the entire series to anyone who enjoys a police mystery with a touch of romance and a whole lot of heart mixed into the dialogue.

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