Kelley Armstrong is back in Haven's Rock with her best story yet!

Cold as Hell has all the twists and mystery that if you have read Kelley you have come to expect, but this time there are even higher stakes! This story is so thrilling, but not in an over-the-top way. There was so much mystery and so many moving parts that keep you on the edge of your seat.

Honestly, I do not have any critiques of this book. I will say that you should check out any trigger warnings because there is murder etc.

I love this series, but this particular novel is my favorite yet. All the plot nuances that I have come to appreciate came together perfectly to create a story that surprised me and kept me on edge. Kelley Armstrong has created something really special with her Haven's Rock series and I cannot recommend it enough!

A wonderful, well written book incorporating well drawn characters that pulled me in immediately.. Simple to get back to after a short absence. I look forward to more of this series.

Haven’s Rock is a sanctuary town hidden deep in the Yukon for those who need to disappear from the regular world. Detective Casey Duncan and her husband, Sheriff Eric Dalton, are settled into their life, and Casey is pregnant. She is nearing delivery time, but she has a new case to investigate. Someone is taking women from the town and leaving them to die in extreme pain. One escapes, but the next night another disappears and is found dead. During a snowstorm, no one could hear her scream. The town is now in turmoil. Someone who lives there is a killer. Suspicions cause issues and Casey is afraid to leave, but knows she must for the safety of herself and her baby. Will they be able to find the killer before someone else ends up dead?

I enjoyed seeing what is happening in Haven's Rock, seeing the residents living their lives and supporting one another. When Casey's sister April discovers that there is a problem with Casey's baby, she tells her she needs to leave to have the baby. She and Eric try to prepare the others in their police force, but the murder puts a wrench in the works. I will say that this killer is really sick. As we learn more about previous deaths that were rather gruesome, I was scared for Casey. This was a complex story, one that was very atmospheric, had well developed characters and pulled me in from the start until the ending. I definitely recommend you read this series in order to see the growth of the community and meet the characters. The audiobook was well narrated by Thérèse Plummer. She is definitely the voice of this series. I enjoy the voices she gives the various characters with their accents and individuality. If you like audiobooks, I recommend you listen to this one.

I feel as though I would have enjoyed this one more if I’d read the first couple books. There was a lot of reference made to people/places that weren’t explained in this particular book. I do really like Casey and her grit!

Thank you NetGalley and publisher for this ARC publication for an honest review.

This was the perfect addition to this breakoff series! I highly recommend starting with the initial Rockton series to get the full experience...

I love how this series has evolved especially with my favorite couple Casey and Eric (Dalton) who are about to become parents in this book. Talk about full circle! Pause while I do a happy dance!!

This series has complex, well-developed characters. There is always a mystery and great suspense as well as moments of friendship and domestic intimacy that helps take the edge off from those heart pounding times.

Our detective Casey is close to the end of her pregnancy (one that has had some complications.). Eric and Casey are in the middle of investigating who drugged a resident when another woman goes missing. Then a snowstorm hits to make the gravity of the situation even more dire. Did I mention our heroine is about to have a baby!

We have so many interesting, not your run of the mill characters. The cast of suspects includes some of our favorites, too. I admit I suspected who the killer was but HOLY COW...the storyline was so intense as little by little layers were revealed. And the final showdown and the ending absolutely EPIC!! This was some masterful storytelling...I can hardly wait to see where this series goes!

5 stars

Totally forgot that this book was part of a series. However, I wasn't disappointed and enjoyed this knew to me author. Will go back and read the books before it.

I received this book as an arc through NetGalley so thank you to Kelley Armstrong and NetGalley for this opportunity.

Details:
1. Plot and Storytelling: ★★★★☆
Cold as Hell continues the journey of Casey and Eric in their remote Yukon town. While the mystery was engaging with a satisfying twist, I found this installment less captivating than previous books. The story’s premise—though surprising—felt like something that might have occurred earlier in the series. Side characters carried much of the interest for me, and while Kelley Armstrong’s storytelling remains excellent, this wasn’t my favorite book in the series.
2. Characterization: ★★★★☆
The side characters truly shone in this book, showing significant growth and adding depth to the story. Casey and Eric, though still complex and relatable, felt more settled in their roles, with less personal development compared to earlier books. That said, they remain flawed yet compelling protagonists who anchor the series.
3. Writing Style: ★★★★★
Kelley Armstrong’s writing is as sharp as ever, with tightly woven plots, vivid descriptions, and atmospheric tension. Her dialogue is crisp, and her ability to immerse readers in the harsh Yukon setting is unmatched.
4. Originality: ★★★½☆
While the overarching premise of Haven’s Rock remains unique, some elements of Casey’s journey have become predictable at this point in the series. However, Armstrong’s ability to craft an original and engaging mystery keeps things fresh overall.
5. Emotional Impact and Resolution: ★★★½☆
This book didn’t evoke a strong emotional response for me—it lacked the gripping intensity of earlier installments. However, the resolution was satisfying and could easily serve as a conclusion to the series (though it isn’t). While enjoyable, it didn’t leave me obsessed or deeply moved.

Overall Rating: ★★★★☆
Cold as Hell is a solid addition to Kelley Armstrong’s Haven’s Rock series. Though not my favorite installment, it offers an intriguing mystery, strong side characters, and Armstrong’s signature atmospheric storytelling. Fans of the series will appreciate revisiting this world but may find themselves longing for the spark of earlier books.

Kelley Armstrong has done it again!
Cold as Hell-the third book in the Havens Rock series.
AMAZING!
Kelsey Armstrong is one of my all time favourite authors, so when I was accepted to view this book as an ARC I was so excited!
This series is one of my top favourites as well!

Casey Duncan- Badass ex detective
Eric Dalton- Tough "Sheriff"

These two will always have you looking for the next twist! The first chapter hooks you in right away, and never gives way. You will feel yourself gripping the book with anticipation just waiting for what's going to happen next.

Thank you Netgalley and the Publisher for allowing me an opportunity to read Cold as Hell as an ARC.

Another great book in the Haven's Rock series. I loved the Rockton series and the Haven's Rock spinoff does not disappoint. Kelley Armstrong continues the series of a secret community hidden in Yukon for people who need to disappear from their lives "down south". There are several characters from the Rockton series who have moved to Haven's Rock as well as new residents to the town. Sheriff Eric Dalton and Detective Casey Duncan have their hands full protecting the residents as unfortunately trouble always seems to find it's way to the secluded town. Thanks to NetGalley for making this book available.

I did not realize this is book 3 in a series as enough background information was given, I was completely confused. I do however suggest starting with book 1. I know I am still left with questions over this little settlement.

Overall, I loved the story and the mystery. Several times I was holding my breath when it came to the pregnancy and labor of the MFC.

I will be reading the first two and excited for the next book.

How have I missed this series and its predecessor “Rockton” series. Holy sugar, I love the idea of this town and the problems that can arise from this setup. Kelley Armstrong has once again created a world within a world and I’m all there for it.

Obviously Haven’s Rock has a wide array of characters living there as everyone has secrets from their past lives that NO ONE knows about…can you say disaster in the making. (chuckle) I love it. (rubbing my hands gleefully) The diversity is amazing. Armstrong has a little bit of everything across the board from race to disability to mental health. I actually don’t have a favorite character because everyone was a suspect in this one. Okay, I just realized that I may have lied. I think I really like Sebastian, Mathias, and April because they are all no-nonsense. Now two of them are killers and I still love them (chuckle).

Now one would think having the main character and detective be eight-months pregnant might make this story less action-packed and you would have it wrong. The author manages to keep us on our toes through the mystery and nature’s own impact on the town and one very pregnant citizen. The mystery is good. I didn’t guess the killer, but I could see where Casey was going. The devil is in the details (chuckle).

I can’t get over how much I love this book and how I’m so late coming to this series as I am a fan of Armstrong’s. I’m going back to the beginning…so Rockton here I come. You don’t have to read any of the previous books to have a good time in Haven’s Rock. So no worries if you are late to scene like me.

This is my first foray into the series and whoa- it has off the charts mood. The mood pops you in the face from the very beginning. The mystery needs it, of course, but Armstrong is a Queen of Writing and this is amazing.

Characters- I love them. They are intently trying to solve the crimes, intently participating in life at Haven’s Rock.

The end was everything I hoped for in this unique book. Five stars all the way.

Once again another stellar book from Kelley Armstrong! I love this series and these characters.

I don't want to say too much, because I don't want to give anything away, but Casey is heavily pregnant, there is lots of snow, and a serial killer!

I want to thank Netgalley, St. Martin's Press and Macmillan Audio for both a kindle and an audiobook of this story. I was able to read and listen off and on to this book. Having gotten a free book I still bought an the audiobook of this book for my audio library. I know that I will listen to this series again!

As always Therese Plummer adds a special something to the story making it come alive, to me she is Casey Butler.

Although you don't need to start this series with the Rockton series, I would advise it. You learn so much about the main characters if you start at the beginning.

Also Ms. Armstrong I would really love even a novella with Mathias's story!!

Cold as Hell is the 3rd book in the Haven’s Rock series but it’s the first one I have read. Obviously I was missing a little of the back story and the details of the events in the first 2 books that were mentioned, however I found it easy to follow along with and I was really invested in story.

Casey is a strong FMC and I loved everything about her. I liked the diversity of the characters and how the different relationships worked within the town. The world building is phenomenal and I felt like I could picture the town of Haven’s Rock and how everyone worked together to make everything happen.

As far as the actual case that was happening, I could not put the book down and had to know what was going on. I was shocked at times and horrified at others and it was everything you want in a detective story. I have to go read the first two books now.

ARC Review
Cold as Hell
By Kelly Armstrong
Publish Date: February 18, 2025

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thank you NetGalley for sending me a copy to review.

I was hooked from the prologue. This book was full of mystery, suspense, deceptions, and lies. This series can be read standalone or in order to gain more character development.

This is the perfect dark read. Absolutely love kelly Armstrong!! I look forward to reading more from this amazing author!!

Cold as Hell was a gripping and chilling read that kept me on edge from start to finish. The remote setting of Haven's Rock added a perfect layer of isolation and tension, and Casey Duncan's determination to investigate, even while heavily pregnant, made her a compelling lead. The mystery surrounding the attack and the discovery of the frozen body in the snow was eerie and intense, and the snowy setting made everything feel even more dangerous. The twists kept me guessing, and the dynamics between the characters, especially Casey and Eric, added emotional depth. While the pacing was a bit slow at times, the tension and suspense made up for it. Definitely looking forward to more in this series!

In this novel about Haven’s Rock, Casey and Eric are faced with one challenge after another. The book begins with an attempted assault, moves to a blizzard and then the discovery of a dead body. With Casey very pregnant and Eric realistically protective, this story adds to the characterization of these two protagonists. We see Casey becoming more and more independent at a time when Eric wants her to depend on him more and to back off from dangerous investigations. Rather, Casey jumps in with two feet in this fast-paced and highly charged book. The suspects are almost as numerous as the residents of Haven’s Rock and even include a nearby gold mining settlement. I loved the mystery, the family drama and the way the characters interacted. The investigation was well portrayed with plenty of red herrings and unexpected twists. The danger for everyone in Haven’s Rock ramps up as the killer closes in on the real prey and then surprises just kept coming. I really enjoyed this book and think it is the best one in the series so far. With characters that pull you into their lifestyle and the investigation itself, this book is memorable as well as compelling and unputdownable.
Disclaimer:
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher via Netgalley. All views expressed are completely my honest opinion.

Only Casey Duncan would be running around in the snow hunting a murderer at 8 months pregnant...
I guess we shouldn't be surprised that Casey and Dalton wouldn't be able to make it all the way through without some kind of mayhem, and true to form we have more murderous mischief in the Yukon just at the worst moment. The pacing was excellent, with a believable approach to Casey's unique situation. (Until maybe the completely crazy end, but even that was totally in character.) Given the situation at Haven's Rock, there are multiple ways a killer can be introduced, and I really liked how it was done this time. It's been really enjoyable to see Haven's Rock's growth and evolution I look forward to seeing that continue.

The Great White North isn’t as safe as the small group living in the off-grid Yukon town hoped for including an attacker in the dark. Kelley Armstrong’s chilling thrillers give a rugged gritty feel with setting and plot circumstances, but add a compelling piece with the complex character and relationship development that goes on along with it.

Cold as Hell is the third of the Haven’s Rock books that follow up the close of the Rockton series. For newcomers, I recommend starting way back at the beginning with the first of the Rockton series because the books and series are all carefully connected.

In this latest, things have had advanced several month from the end of the last book so that Casey is nearly ready to have her baby and things are settling after those previous events. But, peace is not to continue when one of the residents is date-rape drugged and nearly dragged off into the cold, dark, and wintery woods.

Casey and Eric must figure out who’s behind the crime even while the clock is ticking on the time they must withdraw for the birth of their baby after some bumps in Casey’s pregnancy.

Cold As Hell was stark and had dark tones from the beginning because of the nature of the threat that is coming from within. The pacing was steady with a growing ominous feeling as more issues and dangers come up. There wasn’t lag or let up in the suspense right to the heart-pounding climax.

This read so swiftly because I was riveted from cover to cover. I was very taken about the especial emotional punch with Casey and Eric working out becoming new parents and how that dynamic will affect their detecting relationship, too. I can’t wait for more from this strong, amazing series.

Cold as Hell by Kelley Armstrong

Welcome back to Haven's Rock home to a group of survivalists (each person has their own reason for wanting to be there) The environment is harsh and unforgiving; errors can cost your life. For me, the cast of characters and community is familiar since I've been reading the series since it's predecessor series Rockton was written.

The story has it all, atmosphere, murder, graphic situations, well developed characters, friendships and the first birth of a new resident. My favorite characters have always been Eric, Casey and Storm, I truly believe they are the glue that hold it all together through both series.
I will say I found the pregnancy portion of storyline a bit distracting, but it's actually a vital part of the overall plot and tension of the book. I also felt there was a bit of redundancy in the progression of the plot, but in the end, I actually enjoyed Cold as Hell more than the 2nd book in the series.

Due to the characters and all of the various back stories I would suggest reading both of the series in order, at minimum reading Haven's Rock, so that you don't become to confused or feel like your missing something (I have read in some reviews, that select characters are referred to with dual names and readers new to the series find this confusing).

For me this was a 4 out of 5 star read.

I wish to thank the author, Netgalley and Minotaur Books for a complimentary arc of this title for review. Any opinions expressed are my own.

This title in all formats was released on Feb. 18, 2025.