This novel will keep you guessing with its multiple moving parts, diverse characters, and perhaps even some situations you can relate to.

This book has several different storylines that took me a little time to understand how they connected. Politics is the center of it all, and you know how messy that can get.

At the center of this book are Javier and Alex. They are brothers, with one of them choosing the wrong path in life. Javier does his best to look out for Alex, but some nefarious characters have gotten their hooks into him, and it doesn't look good. There are some seedy characters looking out for themselves (politics!), and not taking into consideration the people in town. It correlates to what is happening in our world, but on a fictional level.

The characters in this novel face some tough choices. Some are based on surroundings, others are based on their situation, and some are based on the hand they have been dealt in life.

This novel reflects a lot of what we see in our world today, but there is always hope for a better outcome.

We give this book 4 paws up.

Gone To Ground by Morgan Hatch is a suspenseful, action packed story that kept me glued to my kindle.
A riveting, sharp and atmospheric read.
This author does an excellent job of creating a setting that adds to the tension of the story.
The twist in the plot was amazing and made the entire book a great read.
I liked how it kept my interest and stayed at a very good pace throughout.
The suspense increased and I was fully invested and didn’t want it to end.
The author did such a great job with the characters keeping them engaging and entertaining through it all.

GONE TO GROUND - I liked the blurb and the promise of the trilogy, but I did not like this book. The pace was too slow for me, taking excessive time to get there or to the point. I was so bored it took me days to get through this. The story is missing that something to make me care about the characters and their journey. Barely an average read. Source: Netgalley. 3*

A debut thriller, Gone To Ground (2025) by Morgan Hatch is a coming-of-age tale set against the background of urban gentrification. Brothers, Javier and Alex are raised by their mother in a Los Angeles neighbourhood. Contrastingly, Javier is bound for college, whilst his younger brother is friendly with members of a local gang. A major developer has plans to build new housing estates and has political support, if not from the local residents. A series of events sets off a backlash, leading to the local dam wall collapse, a riot and housing evictions. A tension building drama with underlying issues of urban renewal, politics and local communities, makes for an enjoyable three star read rating. As always, the opinions herein are totally my own, freely given and without any inducement. With thanks to Black Rose and the author for an uncorrected advanced review copy for review purposes.

Gone to Ground is a gritty, slow-burn thriller set in the heart of LA. Javier is chasing a future through education while his younger brother, Alex, slips into gang life. When a shady businessman named George Jones shows up, everything changes.

A burner phone, buried secrets, and a fight for survival push Javier into a dangerous world he never asked for. The story packs tension, real-world issues, and tough choices. While the pacing drags at times with too much detail, the emotional depth and high stakes keep it gripping.

Dark, intense, and thought-provoking. Not a light read, but a worthwhile one.

I was eager to read, and it held my interest in the beginning. A bit confusing at times and I found it difficult to follow. As I was sent an ARC I gave it more time than I normally would. Gave up at 60%. Not horrible at all – just not for me. I’m sure others will enjoy.

First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, Morgan Hatch, and Black Rose for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.

Always eager to get my hands on books by new authors, I gladly accepted this ARC by Morgan Hatch. He drums up an interesting premise in this series debut and keeps the reader guessing as things progress. While
It might not be for everyone, Hatch is able to use a unique approach to tell an eerie story that has elements of greatness.

Javier Jimenez has a good head on his shoulders and is headed for post-secondary, though his younger brother, Alex, has chosen a life in the opposite direction. Neither could have predicted what awaited them when George Jones appears in their neighborhood with a plan of his own!

Javier does all he can to support Alex, though clashing with a local gang leaves the younger brother struggling to stay one step ahead of those he has chosen to befriend. When Javier sees violence come to his door, he learns that George Jones is to blame and has targeted him for reasons not entirely clear. All Javier can surmise is that the community will never be the same!

As L.A. serves as a tense backdrop, Javier will have to pull Alex from the dark side while ensuring that Jones does not get the upper hand. These brothers can only rely on one another, though no one is sure that will be enough. A curious series debut that has Morgan Hatch laying the groundwork for a rough and tumble collection.

New authors to me always leave a sense of curiosity, particularly when I have little knowledge of their previous work. Morgan Hatch delivers a piece that is both dark and action-filled, sure to keep some readers hooked. A narrative that clips along provides the attentive reader with something to enjoy, though I found it meandered too much for my liking. Characters have the ability to add depth for the story, but I failed to connect as much as I would have liked. Plot points were present, which will appeal to some readers, but I needed more. Perhaps I am in the minority, though I prefer honesty over blind adoration.

Kudos, Mr. Hatch, for a series debut that will impress some, even if it did not do it for me!

Gripping Thriller with a Unique Voice*

Morgan Hatch's "Gone To Ground" is a masterfully crafted thriller that delves into the darker side of Los Angeles. With its breakneck pace and intricate plot, this novel will keep you on the edge of your seat.

The story follows Javier Jimenez, a high school senior, as he navigates the treacherous landscape of his neighborhood, where gang violence, corruption, and conspiracy threaten to destroy everything he holds dear. Hatch's portrayal of Javier's world is both authentic and immersive, drawing the reader into the complexities of his characters' lives.

One of the standout features of this novel is its unique voice. Hatch's writing is infused with a witty, irreverent humor that adds depth and nuance to the narrative. The characters are multidimensional and relatable, with motivations that are both understandable and flawed.

The plot is expertly woven, with unexpected twists and turns that keep the reader guessing. Hatch's exploration of themes such as gentrification, identity, and the struggles of growing up in a marginalized community adds depth and resonance to the story.

Overall, "Gone To Ground" is a gripping thriller that will appeal to fans of authors like Dennis Lehane and George Pelecanos. With its unique voice, intricate plot, and memorable characters, this novel is a must-read for anyone looking for a compelling and thought-provoking thriller.

*Recommendation:* If you enjoy crime fiction, thrillers, and stories about complex social issues, you'll love "Gone To Ground".

A great read for the some cosy evening alone time. This book has great characters, mega twist and turns and keeps you engaged and focused.

The writer takes great time to provide every details on the scene, location, settings and characters. Which makes it a brilliant and visualising read.

Highly Recommended