When a woman is found dead in her isolated townhouse, it seems like the husband must be to blame. But in this small town, there is a lot more lurking beneath the surface.
I often find police procedurals, well, procedural. But this was a fascinating story with multiple well-plotted twists and some great detective work. The highlight is the two main detectives - Rose and Priya - who both have relatable and well-rounded personalities, and a great working relationship. Kudos to Matthew Spencer (who I assume is a man) for writing some great female characters.
I really enjoyed this book and found the mystery to be a satisfying read.

This was a great listen. I really liked the characters. The mystery of who the murderer was was very in depth. The author did a great job developing the characters and letting you really get to know them. A bit mystery and a bit police procedural but all around enjoyable. Great narration and well written. I enjoyed the setting in Australia and the winery as well. Good job and great book.

Broke Road is a gripping and emotionally layered read that blends mystery with a haunting sense of place. Matthew Spencer creates a dark, atmospheric world that pulls you in from the first chapter. His prose is sharp and evocative, and the pacing keeps you turning pages. The characters are well-developed, especially the lead, whose complexity adds real weight to the story.

While the plot is compelling and full of tension, there were moments where it felt a little slow or predictable. Still, the emotional depth and strong writing make up for it. If you enjoy crime fiction with a moody, introspective edge, this one is definitely worth picking up.

This is a detective crime novel that kept me gripped and entertained. Set in the Australian wine country, it gave me small town feels with secrets whilst it clashes with the tourism business development of the area. Having not read the first in the series I felt I might have missed out on some main character bonding....but I will rectify that soon! Felt like the plot was well paced and some of red herrings kept me intrigued.

The audiobook was well done. The narrator felt perfect for the detective.
Thanks so much to NetGalley for a copy of the AlC

Matthew Spencer delivers a gripping and atmospheric crime novel with Broke Road, featuring Detective Rose Riley as she unravels a dark and twisted mystery. This story follows a familiar but compelling investigative arc, rooted in classic murder mystery traditions, yet made fresh by the strange and unpredictable nature of the case.

The narrative begins with a disturbing crime that quickly escalates into something far more complex than a simple homicide. As Detective Riley digs deeper, what initially seems like an isolated incident spirals into a web of secrets, hidden motives, and connections that stretch far beyond the surface.

Spencer crafts a suspenseful and well-paced plot, with enough twists to keep readers engaged while still grounding the investigation in realism. Riley is a sharp and determined lead, whose persistence and intuition guide the reader through the maze of clues and red herrings. The bizarre elements of the case only add to the intrigue, creating a story that is both unsettling and addictive.

Broke Road is a strong entry into the detective thriller genre, blending procedural detail with psychological depth. Fans of classic crime fiction and layered mysteries will find this a rewarding and entertaining read.

I wish I had known this was book 2 in a series, though I still enjoyed it (sort of) I think that having read the books in order would help.

It was a very technical crime novel, where the author obviously did lots of research. Unfortunately I didn’t feel the same addictive suspense I’m normally looking for.

I struggled to keep track of all the characters and found myself losing the plot a bit.

A highlight for me was exploring the relationship between the press / locals and the police.

Though this wasn’t for me I appreciate that some people may love this novel!

Broke Road is a gripping and atmospheric police procedural that translates beautifully to audio. Set in the lush yet quietly uneasy wine country of New South Wales, it follows homicide detective Rose Riley as she investigates the suspicious death of a woman found alone in her upscale townhouse. At first glance the case seems contained, but as Riley and her team dig deeper, it becomes clear that this is only the beginning of something much darker.

The audiobook narration brings real weight to the story. The voice work captures the mood of the Australian setting with authenticity and clarity, drawing listeners into the tension simmering beneath Red Creek’s scenic surface. Riley’s composed determination, Patel’s clever warmth, and the guarded resistance of the locals are all portrayed with nuance. Each character feels distinct and grounded, which adds depth to the unfolding mystery.

The pacing of the book is deliberate and rewarding. It moves steadily rather than racing, and the narration supports this by leaning into the details without dragging. The story builds momentum with precision, especially once a disturbing pattern emerges that links the Red Creek murder to a pair of unsolved cases in other towns. The shift from local investigation to serial killer pursuit is handled with skill, and the tension never feels manufactured.

Spencer’s writing is vivid, and hearing it aloud enhances the immersion. The rural setting is beautifully evoked — vineyards, unfinished developments, and the quiet anxiety of a town caught between tradition and modern industry. The cultural friction between long-time residents and incoming tourism is woven into the story without overpowering it, adding real-world texture to the suspense.

This is not just a whodunit. It is a thoughtful exploration of motive, secrecy, and the personal cost of truth. Listening to it deepens the emotional undercurrents, especially as Riley reflects on her own past and the vulnerabilities she uncovers in others.

If you enjoy character-driven mysteries with rich atmosphere, complex investigations, and strong narration, Broke Road is a standout. It can be enjoyed as a continuation of Black River or on its own. Either way, the combination of excellent writing and compelling performance makes it a smart choice for your next listen.

<i>Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this eARC in exchange for my honest review.</i>

2.5 stars rounded up

When I first got this, I didn’t realize this was a 2nd in a series, so I’m not sure if this impacted things. I just found it kind of a bore! There are other similar books that I just found a lot more engaging.

I read the first book in this series and found it interesting. You can read this one without the first as it is an entirely different case and setting for the detective team.
I have to confess that I have a weakness for an Australian accent so listening to this on audiobook was a real treat. Set in Australia, the narrator is native to the country.
The story involves a woman who has been murdered but the murder has no real leads until the detectives uncover some similarities of this murder to others. This leads the team to try and track down a serial killer.

Here’s where the audiobook was probably a source of frustration for me as the author brings in multiple people and I start losing the thread. I guess reading a print version along with the audio would help the reader keep track of the story. I got a little lost at times.


Overall this is a decent mystery.

Despite having to google some of the lingo 😆 I really enjoyed this Australian police procedural. Broke Road is the second book in the Rose Riley series, and although it is not necessary to read in order, I definitely want to go back and read Black River after reading this one. I love a good police procedural and this one reads just like an episode of your favorite procedural drama. There were so many suspects you didn’t know who to trust and it truly keeps you guessing to the very end. My favorite part was the strong FMC and the dynamic between her, her partner, and their journalist friend assisting with the case. The narration was great too!

I found this a little confusing at times to follow and was getting easily distracted, not really following the plot fully at all times: Also it has to be mentioned it opened with too many characters too many different names being brought in to the story for me personally to follow.

The characters Detective Rose Riley the victim and the main suspect generally held my attention many others seemed to come in and out just a little too quick so fair to say the character building was fast paced however I felt the writing style wasn’t really for me. With that being said I’ve taken into account this is the second in the series and may be why I had a little more difficulty following on so decided on the 3 ⭐️.

The narration seemed relatively same throughout without much change in the characters; again another possible point as to why I couldn’t quite gel with this one. Just don’t think it was for me on this occasion. Not to say I wouldn’t try another from this author in the future. I didn’t hate it, it just isn’t one I will remember.

I appreciate the opportunity to listen to this ARC on behalf of NETGALLEY & BRILLIANCE PUBLISHING for an open honest review. Many thanks and Best wishes for publication on 8th July 2025 📚🎧🙏🏽❤️

A young woman is found dead in her townhouse in rural Red Creek, an up-and-coming wine region outside of Sydney. No sign of forced entry or a struggle. Possibility of sexual assault. The husband is a suspect, but he has an alibi. Homicide detectives Rose Riley and Priya Patel are assigned the case, and drive out from Sydney, staying at a local motel. As they investigate, stories in the local press suggest they may have a leak in their local team, adding tension of the case. National crime reporter Adam Bowman has worked with Riley in the past, and when he sees her photo in a story about the case from the local reporter, he shows up to help (and get his own story). When the case is linked to 2 cold cases in other Australian cities, Riley and her team must figure out how they are connected to narrow down their suspect list. Excellently narrated by Kellie Jones, I was riveted by the story. Even though I haven't read the first book in the series (Black River), enough backstory was provided for me to feel like I knew the main players. Even as an audiobook, I had no trouble keeping track of the different characters or the plot. Spencer does an excellent job of building suspense, providing multiple reasonable suspects, and keeping the story moving and the reader guessing at the conclusion until pretty much all was revealed!

I made the mistake of not realising that this was a follow up to Black River, and while I really enjoyed Broke Road I definitely think it would’ve been better had I read in order.

I enjoyed getting to know detective Rose Riley and her partner Priya Patel as they begin their venture into wine country in the bid to unravel a murder case. The locals are less than keen to help them solve the case, so as much as they need to build evidence they need to build relationships.

The author has written the scenery really well, I’ve never been to Australia but I could vividly imagine the area.

Great writing, great narration but I’m sorry I missed the first book.

Huge thanks to Brilliance Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to review this ALC 🎧

Thank you Netgalley and Brilliance Publishing for the opportunity to listen to this audiobook.

3.5 voted up- no real reason.
I had not read Rose RIley #1- but that did not take away (I don't believe it did) from this book. I enjoyed the setting.... I enjoyed the characters. I will go back and read part one and hope for a part 3..... or more.



A young woman is found dead in her isolated town house in rural Red Creek, an up-and-coming wine tourism destination outside Sydney. No forced entry. No signs of struggle. And her geologist husband has an alibi, though it’s not exactly solid. While a tabloid journalist is quick to spin her own damning narrative, homicide detective Rose Riley is questioning everything she sees—especially in a rapidly developing community that already seems on edge.

While Riley and her partner, Priya Patel, work the case with a local detective, crime reporter Adam Bowman follows his own leads. Then forensic evidence matches that of a pair of unsolved murders elsewhere in two other married women, murdered months apart yet in the exact same manner. Riley realizes she’s dealing with a serial killer. But one whose victims weren’t random. These women were chosen, watched, and targeted for a purpose.

As the secrets in this small town emerge, the suspects mount. Now Riley must unearth the deadliest secret of all—the true motive behind the murders—before another woman dies.

i feel like this book is good, it’s just not my style. I could tell it was very well thought out, the police/forensics aspect seemed well researched, and the details seemed consistent.
however, i felt like there were a lot of characters that were hard to keep track of who was what, who was who, and who was doing what.
i just think it wasn’t my favorite style, it was very transactional, very detailed, and very much so read like the script of a true crime movie or tv show. it felt like i should be watching it more than reading it, if that makes sense.

Homicide Detective Rose Riley is investigating the death of a young woman in Red Creek, a wine tour destination. With her partner Priya Patel they will be thoroughly working the case. Forensic evidence matches with other deaths across Australia.

Very well written and well narrated novel (I listened to the audiobook). Very good characters in this well paced crime novel. How are the victims linked and can the killer be found before there are more victims? Secrets within the town cause the number of suspects to rise.

Perhaps it was the sexy accented voice of the Australian audiobook narrator, but this book did it for me! Suspenseful and confounding murders, behind-the-scenes drama at Australian wine country tasting rooms and resorts, and police vs press situations. Matthew Spencer has a series with legs thanks to Rose Riley and Priya Patel - a compatible duo willing to explore each other's favorite foods and beverages (yes, chai tea and samosas for breakfast any day!) while brainstorming ideas on what could have happened in this almost locked-room mystery. 4.5 rounded up. I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
My thanks to the author, publisher, @BrillianceAudio, and #NetGalley for early access to the audiobook of #BrokeRoad for review purposes. Publication date: 8 July 2025.

Broke Road is a strong follow-up to the first Rose Riley novel, Black River, though it also works well as a standalone. This time, Detective Rose Riley and her partner, Priya Patel, are called to investigate the murder of a woman found dead in her home in the scenic wine country of the Hunter Valley, New South Wales. As in the previous book, investigative journalist Adam Bowman reappears — offering his help, and of course, hoping for a story.

I found the story a little slow to get into, and there were quite a few characters to keep track of. I really enjoyed how Rose and Priya worked together, and with the locals, to get to the bottom of it and how they tracked it to other murders. Was a great police procedural story, where I wasn't ever quite sure which way it would turn out.

Kellie Jones's narration is excellent and well worth the listen.

Broke Road by Matthew Spencer was a gritty, well-crafted thriller that kept me locked in with its moody atmosphere and slow-building suspense. I really appreciated how the story unfolded; it wasn’t rushed or overly dramatic, but instead took its time laying out the layers of the mystery. It felt real, heavy, and at times, even haunting.

The audiobook narration was solid and suited the tone of the story well. The pacing may not be for everyone; it leans more on character development and quiet tension than nonstop action, but that worked for me. It gave me time to absorb each detail and really get into the psychology of the characters.

I'm giving it four stars because while the story was strong and emotionally resonant, there were moments where I wished for a little more urgency or sharper twists. Still, it's a compelling listen that I’d absolutely recommend to anyone who enjoys atmospheric, character-driven crime fiction.

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to this intriguing audiobook in exchange for my honest review.

Broke Road by Matthew Spencer is a compelling thriller that hooks you with its atmospheric setting and a tangled web of secrets lurking beneath a sleepy rural community. Detective Rose Riley is tasked with unraveling the mysterious death of a young woman in her quiet town of Red Creek, where nothing is quite as peaceful as it seems. The case quickly evolves into something much darker as Riley uncovers links to a series of chilling unsolved murders across Australia. The story moves briskly, balancing multiple perspectives—from Riley’s investigation to the tabloid journalist spinning falsehoods, to the forensic leads of crime reporter Adam Bowman—each adding layers of intrigue. Spencer does a good job creating a sense of mounting tension and suspects emerging from the shadows, all while the town’s secrets threaten to explode in a flurry of revelations. While some plot twists are effective, a few asides felt a little predictable and the pacing sometimes slowed in the middle. Still, the moments of suspense and the shocking revelations about the true motive kept me engaged and guessing until the final pages. Riley’s dogged determination and solid character development add emotional weight to the story. In all, Broke Road offers a satisfying mix of mystery, suspense, and small-town secrets—an entertaining read for crime fans craving twists and a race against time to stop the killer before another woman falls. It’s not perfect, but definitely worth the ride.