𝑨𝒙𝒆𝒍 𝒍𝒐𝒐𝒌𝒔 𝒂𝒇𝒓𝒂𝒊𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒎𝒆𝒆𝒕 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒆𝒚𝒆𝒔. 𝑾𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒉𝒆 𝒅𝒐𝒆𝒔, 𝒔𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒆𝒆𝒔 𝒉𝒐𝒘 𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒉𝒂𝒓𝒅𝒔 𝒐𝒇 𝒃𝒍𝒖𝒆 𝒊𝒏 𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒊𝒓𝒊𝒔𝒆𝒔 𝒃𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒌 𝒂𝒑𝒂𝒓𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒓𝒆𝒇𝒍𝒆𝒄𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒊𝒓 𝒔𝒉𝒂𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒅 𝒍𝒊𝒇𝒆.

My first foray into the fictional world of Black Harbor, and all I can do is ask myself, "What took you so long?" I usually never read a series out of order, but several people reassured me I could read these as standalones, but I made sure to get the first two to get caught up!

On a freezing October night, Medical Examiner Rowan Winthorp investigates the death of her teen daughter’s best friend. Hours later, the tragedy hits even closer to home when she makes a devastating discovery—her daughter, Chloe, is gone. She and her detective husband Axel have to face some hard truths about their daughter, and for Rowan, she is convinced she is being punished for some transgression from her past.

I loved the atmosphere that Morrissey has created with her fictional town of Black Harbor, WI, and I'm now a fan! Many thanks to NetGalley and St. Martins Press for this thrilling early read. This title will publish October 31, 2023.

Thank you to the author and the publisher Minotaur Books for sending me this one to read through NetGalley!

4.5/5 stars!

*** I will be sharing this review on my instagram account @readitwithtay today 7/29 and then again on 10/31 for the publishing date!***

Wow I raced through this book. I just could not put it down. It was definitely a psychological thriller with elements of your basic crime thriller (main characters both work with the local police department).

It’s just another day for Axel and Rowen when they get a murder call and are torn away from their daughters performance in the school play, except this time the murder hits extremely close to home. Madison Caldwell, their daughters childhood best friend is found in a gulley in an extremely gruesome state. Not long after working the call, their own daughter goes missing, never returning home from her star performance. Is this just a coincidence? Or is there something extremely dark unfolding in Black Harbor?

The author has a way with writing characters that really draw you in. These characters are real raw and somewhat disturbing. If you like dark thrillers like Sharp Objects, Girl on the train or Gone Girl you will love this one. I’ll admit I had suspicions about who was the “murderer” and turned out to be correct, but these characters will have you second guessing.

This book has a lot of POVs so be prepared to hear different perspectives (specifically Rowen and Axel’s) I like multiple POVs but it really can make you confused about some details and character interactions. There was a lot of miscommunication between the two characters which made the dual POV very important but at times frustrated me.

After reading this one I will be going back to check out this authors other work , I believe her two other books have to do with the same setting and possibly similar characters.

This was one of the best ARCs I’ve read all year. This book is slated to publish on 10/31. The perfect spooky fall read. Pick this up and enjoy!

The Black Harbor series continues to stun!

This time out in When I'm Dead, we explore how the miasmic conditions of Black Harbor seep their way into people's minds, affecting their attitudes and lives. When a girl goes missing, a Husband (detective) and Wife (Medical Examiner) are pushed to their limits... both in finding their daughter, and in salvaging their marriage.

With Hannah's trademark literary flow and propulsive plot, I finished this in one sitting! Very well done, and I hope to see more come in the series!

My thanks to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!

Im a huge fan of all of Hannah Morrissey books but I think this one was my favorite so far. I love how each book is a standalone story but has connections to other characters from other books. It makes it feel like you’re part of the area where the books take place and know the characters. I really liked the story of a killer targeting these girls and their parents all being wrapped up in the situation in this small community. The author really builds the story well and keeps the reader always wanting more. The only thing I found unrealistic was how the daughter of one of the investigators and the medical examiner is missing (and could be the murderer) and they kind of just keep going on with life and aren’t taken away from the case since they are so closely involved. I feel like in the real world it would have been handled a lot differently. I highly recommend anything by Hannah Morrissey.

Definitely a bizarre and twisty story. I thought the writing was well done as was the mystery, but I didn't completely love the characters or really care about them enough. Character building was definitely a bit lackluster for me.

Thank you for the ARC! This series is a definitely a little darker than im used to but i do love this series! Her first book was really good and this was a good sequel! Love the fall/halloween time feels. Love the characters and the story!

This is the third installment of the Black Harbor series, but since each of these crime thrillers introduce new characters with only the nefarious, hardscrabble, coaldust-spewing town in common, “When I’m Dead” can be read as a standalone novel. In this book, Rowan and Axel are the medical examiner/homicide detective-wife/husband protagonists. They get called out to the scene of a murder while their method-acting 15 year old and newly Goth-inspired daughter is onstage at the school production of “Beetlejuice.” The victim is daughter Chloe’s best friend Madison; the murder scene is 30 yards from home; and they quickly discover that Chloe is missing, too. The last thing a prickly Chloe said to her mother was “You’ll love me more when I’m dead.”

The story alternates between Rowan and Axel’s perspectives, but there’s also Libby, the loner next door neighbor girl who’s a classmate of Madison and Chloe’s and keenly observant. She knows something, but no one is asking her the right questions. The book dives deeply into the guilt of working parents as well as the awful pettiness of high school girls. It’s emotional, chilling and heart-breaking as all three characters are on the verge of breaking down as they search for Chloe. 5 stars! Time for me to visit the other tales of the eroding town of Black Harbor.

Thank you to St. Martin’s Press/Minotaur Books and NetGalley for a free advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review!

Literary Pet Peeve Checklist:
Green Eyes (only 2% of the real world, yet it seems like 90% of all fictional females): YES Axel has blue-green eyes, as does Rowan.
Horticultural Faux Pas (plants out of season or growing zones, like daffodils in autumn or bougainvillea in Alaska): YES/NO It’s October in Wisconsin and Libby’s greenhouse appropriately has autumn mums for sale. Hardy Canadian Aurora Borealis rose bushes, however, are definitely not red, but shocking pink and would probably not be blooming for fall plantings. But here they need to be blood red and in full bloom.

Rowan has a difficult job being the medical examiner in Black Harbor, Michigan. She wants to watch her daughter perform in play but gets called away because of work. The dead girl is Madison Caldwell who was Chloe's best friend. This happened so close to their home. Then Chloe doesn't come home from play and is missing.

Rowan feels like karma has finally caught up with her. She is haunted by the last thing her daughter said to her. She must find Chloe. You feel the strain of Rowan's and Axel's relationship as they try and work and find out what happened to Chloe. The teachers saw signs as parents how did they miss it? I liked how Madison's character was said to be like Regina George because she was mean and bullied people. She was making Chloe's life miserable by starting rumors about her. Chloe found a friend in Libby her quirky next door neighbor.

I enjoyed the world building of this town, the neighbors, the school. This is third in the series but first one I read so it works as a stand alone. I liked watching the mystery of who the killer was unfold and why. It gave off some creepy vibes but was good.

A solid police procedural by author Hannah Morrissey, the third in a series, although the first of hers that I've read.

Two girls murdered, one missing - is there a connection between them? Set in the gritty, crime ridden midwestern town of Black Harbor, medical examiner Rowan Winthrop and her detective husband Alex have a personal interest in the case as it is their daughter Chloe who goes missing the night the first murder is discovered. Shortly thereafter another girl goes missing. It turns out that the two murdered girls, supposedly friends of Chloe's, were the "mean girls" in school and had started a rumor that Chloe was having a sexual relationship with her drama teacher. Did Chloe have something to do with the two murders, hence her disappearance, or did she suffer the same fate? There's also the outsider girl next door, Libby, who has a fascination with dead things and a hobby doing taxidermy. Or was it the drama teacher trying to cover up evidence of an inappropriate relationship?

The story is told from differing viewpoints - mainly alternating between Rowan and her husband Alex, but occasionally a chapter is told from the point of view of view of Libby, the girl next door. Sometimes you think you know where the story is heading, but it gets more complex as you continue on and I didn't see the ending coming.

Thank you NetGalley and Putnam Books for the opportunity to read an advanced copy. I'll be following author Hannah Morrissey.

3.5 stars. I love the darkness and rough edges of Hannah Morrissey's Black Harbor novels. In book #3 of this series, local girls are disappearing, including the daughter of a police officer and the city's medical examiner. There's a lot of action in the very beginning of the book, then there's a bit of a lull in the middle where I question some of the characters' responses to the things happening around them, until the action finally picks up again at the end. The events of this book take place during the week leading up to Halloween, with descriptions of falling leaves, jack-o'lanterns, and crisp fall air, so it's perfect that it's scheduled to publish on October 31, 2023. Lots of symbolism in this one, too - I feel like someone could write an entire term paper on the use of the color red (bloodred, titian, vermillion, scarlet, plum, russet used to describe dresses, leaves, roses, hair) in this novel.

I wanted to like this book. I truly did. Unfortunately, that wasn't the case.

I noticed that other reviewers had said it started out slow for them but eventually picked up. I just finished the very last chapter and it never picked up for me. I didn't care about anyone in this book. Not a single character. It's hard for me to invest myself in a story about a missing teen whose life may be in danger when I don't really care about her, her friends, family, or neighbors. This appears to be the third book in a series. Perhaps the character development took place in the first and/or second installment.

In any case, I'm calling this a one and done for me.

As always, my sincere thanks to the publisher, author, and NetGalley for the chance to read and review this ARC.

Black Harbor, Wisconsin = Green Bay? I kept thinking this. Anyway, I enjoyed this, even though it was a terribly bleak and unforgiving look at a town and several crimes. Well-written, with characters that were flawed and real, but not real likable (for me).

This just felt dark, not that I have an issue with that per se, but it was darker than most things I read. Recommended.

I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

I liked the first Black Harbor book a lot but the last ones have seemed kind of rushed? Why are they coming out so quickly? I like the characters, setting and the plot but the details felt slapdash. Is there such demand for them they need to come out so quickly? I think some time would be a huge benefit for the series. None have felt as fleshed out as Hello Transcriber.

Thanks Netgalley for allowing me to read this book. Rowan's next case hits close to home. When her daughter is missing, she learns that her daughter is hiding sine secrets. This book grabbed my attention from the start.

This would be the perfect spooky season read! Hannah did a great job of getting inside the minds of a detective, a medical examiner, and a teenage girl. Found myself rooting for these characters. Not surprised by the ending but still happy with it.

I love trying to solve a crime! This one kept me guessing! I really enjoyed this read and look forward to reading others by this author!

If you’re a mystery love who loves delving into the details and trying to solve the crime along with the protagonist, this is for you. I thoroughly enjoyed it and it did keep me guessing. Although part of a series, it can be read as a standalone. I’ll be reading the other books by this author.

If you're a fan of crime novels and love the thrill of unraveling mysteries, then the series you've stumbled upon is an absolute gem. This captivating collection of books delves deep into the realm of crime, taking readers on a rollercoaster ride of suspense, intrigue, and clever detective work. From the first page to the last, you'll find yourself engrossed in the intricate web of deceit and deception woven by the author.

The series effortlessly immerses you in the life of a detective, making you feel like a true sleuth as you try to decipher the clues and unravel the truth behind each crime. The author's meticulous attention to detail ensures that every twist and turn keeps you guessing, leaving you both satisfied and hungry for more.

The first two books in the series serve as an excellent introduction to the author's writing style and the world they have created. With their well-crafted plotlines and rich character development, these novels set the stage for the gripping investigations that follow. Each subsequent book expands upon the foundation laid by its predecessors, introducing new cases and challenges that will keep you eagerly turning the pages.

One of the series' greatest strengths lies in its characters. The author has masterfully created a diverse cast of individuals, from dedicated detectives to cunning criminals, each with their own unique motivations and secrets. You'll find yourself forming connections with these characters, rooting for their successes and suspecting their every move.

The author's ability to keep readers guessing is truly commendable. Just when you think you have it all figured out, they skillfully introduce another plot twist or revelation that turns everything on its head. The intricate puzzles and mind games played between the characters make for an exhilarating read, keeping you on the edge of your seat until the final pages.

While the series is undoubtedly a thrilling exploration of the criminal mind, it also delves into deeper themes such as justice, morality, and the complexities of human nature. The author expertly weaves these elements into the fabric of their storytelling, giving the books a layer of depth that elevates them above standard crime fiction.

In conclusion, if you're craving a return to the enthralling world of crime fiction, this series is an absolute must-read. With its engrossing mysteries, well-drawn characters, and unpredictable twists, it offers a captivating experience for any detective enthusiast. So grab a copy, sharpen your deductive skills, and prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey into the world of crime.

When I'm Dead is a murder mystery set in the dark, gloomy, small town of Black Harbor. Rowan and Axel's daughter, Chloe, disappears on the same night that her best friend is murdered. Rowan is the medical examiner, and Axel is a cop. They're both looking for clues to find the murder and, hopefully, find their daughter alive. This is the second book I've read from Hannah Morrissey, and I do enjoy her writing style. This book is told from varying points of view, which I usually like, but I found the chapters from Chloe's schoolmate's point of view dragged a bit. I also felt like the book could have ended sooner. I found myself wanting them to find the person already. But I enjoyed When I'm Dead overall and look forward to reading more from Hannah Morrissey. Thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press/Minotaur Books for the ARC.

Will be working on my review to put on social media here soon. SPOILERS.

I have read all of the Black Harbor series books and I truly think this is the authors best book yet! I was captivated early on, and things got even more interesting when Libby was introduced. I do think that once Mr. Taylor was introduced as a character it was obvious to me that he was the guilty party it was just a matter of why.

Looking forward to reading more from this author in the future. Thanks for allowing me to have an early peak!