I Think I Was Murdered
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Pub Date Nov 12 2024 | Archive Date Dec 12 2024
Thomas Nelson Fiction | Thomas Nelson
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Description
"It's a high-octane thriller with the grounding touches of Katrina's Norwegian heritage, the hygge of North Haven, and a very sweet romance between two likable, vulnerable people. Romantic suspense comfort food--just like waffles with cloudberry cream." --KIRKUS
This timely, high-concept novel delves into the impact of AI on a grieving widow who uses a chatbot to "talk" to her dead husband. What she never expects is the response when she asks it to tell her something she doesn't know: I think I was murdered.
Just a year ago, Katrina Berg was at the pinnacle of her career. She was a rising star in the AI chatbot start-up everyone was talking about, married with an adoring husband, and had more money than she knew how to spend. Then her world combusted. Her husband, Jason, was killed in a fiery car crash. Her CEO was indicted, and, as the company's legal counsel, Katrina faces tough questions as the Feds take over and lock her out of her office. The final blow is the passing of her beloved grandmother.
Her most prized possession is the beta prototype for a new, ultra-sophisticated chatbot loaded onto her phone. The contents of Jason's email, social media backups, pictures, and every bit of data she could find were loaded into the bot, and Katrina has "talked" to him every day for the past six months. She has been amazed at how well it works. Even the syntax and words the bot uses sound like Jason. Sometimes, she imagines he isn't really dead and is right there beside her. She knows it's slowing her grief recovery, but she can't stop pretending.
On a particularly bad day, she taps out: Tell me something I don't know. The cursor blinks for several moments and seems frozen before the reply flashes quickly onto the screen: I think I was murdered.
Distraught, Katrina returns to her cozy Norwegian-flavored hometown in the Northern California redwoods and enlists the help of Seb Wallace, local restaurateur and longtime acquaintance, to try to parse out the truth of what really happened. They must navigate the complicated paths of grief, family dynamics, and second chances, as well as the complex questions of how much control technology has. And staying alive long enough to do that is far more difficult than either of them dreamed.
Bestselling authors Coble and Acker deftly combine a high-concept plot with gripping intrigue and sweet romance. Reading one of their novels feels akin to watching a BBC mystery series: by the end of the first scene you can relax, knowing you're in the capable hands of a story that will have a complex puzzle, character-driven plot, and a satisfying reveal.
Looking for more from these authors? Don't miss their Tupelo Grove series: Book #1 What We Hide, Book #2 Where Secrets Lie, and Book #3 When Justice Comes.
Available Editions
| EDITION | Other Format |
| ISBN | 9780840712578 |
| PRICE | $18.99 (USD) |
| PAGES | 352 |
Available on NetGalley
Average rating from 324 members
Featured Reviews
Sue G, Reviewer
I THINK I WAS MURDERED by COLLEEN COBLE and RICK ACKER is a real page turner that will keep you guessing right to the end. There is mystery, romance, betrayal, adventure, murder and mayhem,; in facr everything you expect in a good thriller, plus much more, with the addition of a chatbot, a Chinese gang, bitcoin and a valuable egg.
When this chatbot uses her late husband’s voice to tell Katrina he thinks he is murdered, her already disturbed life takes another direction and gets really dangerous. With Seb, someone she looked down on and treated badly when they were young, and her best friend Liv, she sets off to find out what really happened.
The story is told against the background of a friendly town with a Norwegian flavour, and eateries with good food…….
Family dynamics and the characters’ emotions are explored…….
I do not want to tell you any more for fear of spoiling your read.
I highly recommend this exciting and well written novel to anyone who enjoys this genre.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Thomas Nelson. The opinions in this review are completely my own.
Reviewer 1079398
This was really interesting and different. I really enjoyed reading it. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this ARC!
Sandra O, Reviewer
Wow Colleen Cable and Rick Acker what a team. They are really writing future bestsellers in my opinion. I think I was Murdered is a very thought provoking suspense about AI and greed and grief. I enjoyed reading about Norwegian food and customs. The characters were as always well thought out and pulled you into their lives and got you hooked on the roller coaster ride. You could relate to Katrinas grief over losing her husband Jason and her grandmother, but then to discover that he was probably murdered over a mysterious egg worth a fortune. I never knew some of the things in this book were even possible. Katrina and Sebs story was heartwarming and a bit sad. They pulled you through the twists and turns to the exciting and final satisfying page. I even went on the website she provided and watched the goats on the roof!! I want to thank Netgalley and Thomas Nelson publishing company for the advanced copy for my honest opinion.
This is a fascinating story encompassing AI, chatbots, and Bitcoin, that I found impossible to stop reading, until the last page was turned. I recommend not starting it late in the day if you plan to get some sleep.
Jason Foster had searched for the mythical, most likely fictitious, Satoshi eggs for over a decade. When he found it a couple weeks earlier, he’s been fearful for his life. Although it doesn’t look like much more than a faded, plastic Easter egg, inside the USB drive has those hunting for treasures frantic to find it.
Upon the death of Jason in what appears to be an innocent car accident during heavy fog, his widow, Katrina, is obsessed with chatbots, which combining all former messages and information about Jason, gives her the impression she is still in communication with him using her phone. What a surprise when the Jason-like voice announces “I think I was murdered.”
Katrina, an attorney, and her best friend, Liz, the Chief Technology Officer, work at Talk, Inc., a tech company in Palo Alto, with a unique AI app. The CEO of the company, who also was the boyfriend of Liz, appears to have vanished. He’s not been heard from nor is he responding to any phone calls. The FBI is now looking into their business dealings.
This is a fast-paced, action-packed story that includes many loveable and relatable characters, and some that left me with questions about their true character. It seems Jason left some clues for Katrina to find that includes the code for $30 million dollars of Bitcoin.
There are many unexpected twists and turns to this captivating story. I could have never guessed the shocking conclusion of this most fascinating story.
Colleen Coble has been one of my favorite authors for years, however, her writing partnership with Rick Acker has increased my love of suspense, which I’ve found to be at it’s very best, written by these two.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
This writing duo is on fire! The books keep getting better. I think this one is my new favourite!
I love to learn as I read, love a ‘suspense forward’ romantic suspense and love the assurance that I’ve got a clean read in my hands. This book has all that IN SPADES.
I was captivated by a great story centered around artificial intelligence, cryptocurrencies, and chatbots. I appreciated the delicate balance of this with things that pulled on my heartstrings: characters who learned that the most important things in life aren’t tangible, inspirational messages from exchanges between a Nazi guard and Corrie ten Boom, and reminders that every beginning starts with an ending.
Every time I felt that the tension had crescendoed to a nail-biting height, I knew that a smile was close at hand. For example, the duo referenced Freia chocolate, Tillamook ice cream, or the mixup over the Norwegian word for suit, at the perfect place in the story. As much as I loved the chase of ‘gunting’, I appreciated a well-balanced story with faith elements and romance.
I can’t wait for the next Colleen Coble - Rick Acker mystery!
I was gifted this copy by Thomas Nelson Fiction and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Megan W, Reviewer
**Thank you so much to Thomas Nelson Publishing and NetGalley for giving me an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review! These thoughts are entirely my own.**
I loved this book! The plot was amazing. I was hooked from the beginning, and I had such a hard time putting it down! The action was fast-paced, but not so much so that I couldn’t keep track of what was happening. I never would have guessed the twist at the end, either.
The characters were super interesting and compelling. Their relationships were deep and interesting to read about. I cared what happened to them, which was wonderful! The book is dual-POV, which I liked. The writing style was done well, so the different character perspectives felt distinct. And, I never would have known I Think I Was Murdered was written by two authors if I hadn’t seen it on the cover. The whole book is seamless, and you cannot tell that more than one person wrote it.
The exploration of Artificial Intelligence and its impacts on humanity and our emotions was so cool and so well-done. I LOVED reading about the AI, and also about some of the other technological items used in the novel.
My only complaint with this book is the Christian content. I loved what was there, but I wish there was a little bit more. It was mentioned so little that I was jarred whenever it was mentioned. I also wish it was a little bit deeper in theology.
However, I had such a fun time reading it, and I definitely recommend it!
Educator 1079065
This is the first time I have read anything by these authors. I can, with confidence, say that I would read other books by them. Although I have always been into technology, this is the first time I understood a little about what AI can do. At my age, I would have given anything to be able to hear my mother & father’s voices throughout my life. If only this existed, or made available twenty years ago!!
The story was intriguing and the characters were likable. The small town setting, relaxing atmosphere, and a “family” of friends watching out for each other is something I long for right now. The authors painted a vivid picture.
There was a twist at the end that I did not see coming. I highly recommend reading this book!
Blessing O, Reviewer
Colleen Coble and Rick Acker brings Artificial Intelligence into the mystery genre in I Think I Was Murdered. I enjoyed the suspense and twists and this was a quick read for me. The romance and family themes were also sweet to read. Thank you, Netgalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for giving me this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Blessing E, Reviewer
Colleen Coble and Rick Acker brings Artificial Intelligence into the mystery genre in I Think I Was Murdered. I enjoyed the suspense and twists and this was a quick read for me. The romance and family themes were also sweet to read. Thank you, Netgalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for giving me this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Librarian 255255
Good mystery….as always!
I enjoyed that the characters knew each other in high school and reconnected. Interesting dynamics between the brothers and their dad.
I have no idea what bit coins are but that didn’t take away from the story.
Thank you Netgalley for the arc.
This story has great twists and turns that I didn't see coming. I loved the AI twist too. Colleen Coble and Rick Acker are wonderful writers but together it takes their work to another level. This is classified as Christian literature and I understand that but it's not written with hit me over the head Christian ideas. Instead it shows how a Christian uses their relationship with God to help them in difficult situations.
Huge thanks to Netgalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for an ARC.
Jo C, Reviewer
Colleen Coble's "I Think I Was Murdered" is a riveting and masterfully crafted thriller that captivates readers from the very first page. Coble's expertise in weaving suspenseful and emotionally charged narratives shines through in this gripping tale of mystery and intrigue.
The story follows an unforgettable journey filled with unexpected twists and turns, as the protagonist uncovers layers of secrets and deception. Coble's deft characterization brings the characters to life, making their struggles and triumphs feel deeply personal and relatable. The protagonist's quest for truth is both compelling and heart-wrenching, drawing readers into a world where every clue leads to more questions.
Coble’s writing is both evocative and precise, creating an atmosphere of tension and urgency that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The plot is meticulously constructed, with each revelation adding depth and complexity to the overall story. The blend of suspense, mystery, and emotional depth makes this novel a standout in its genre.
"I Think I Was Murdered" is a testament to Colleen Coble's storytelling prowess, offering a thrilling reading experience that lingers long after the final page. It is a must-read for fans of suspenseful fiction and anyone who loves a well-crafted mystery that challenges the mind and touches the heart.
I absolutely loved this book. The AI aspect of it was very interesting. Colleen Coble has long been a favorite of mine but this co author was so good I couldn’t tell where. He started and she ended. They wrote beautifully together!
Katrina is still grieving the loss of her husband Jason a year ago. She works at a company that creates chatbots. The newest one is mimicking her deceased husband. They created him by loading all of his socials, texts, emails and photos into the program so when she talks to the chatbot or asks questions it sounds like him. One day she asks, tell me something I don’t know about you, he comes back with I think I was murdered! With the help of her childhood friend and Jason’s “voice” through chatbot they try to figure out what really happened to Jason.
Artificial Intelligence is a scary thing. Coble and Acker make it even scarier. I am loving these absolute new stories from them.
I received an advanced readers copy from Thomas Nelson and Netgalley. Opinions are my own.
This another great suspense read!
I wondered how the title of the book fit in and it is cleverly entwined in the storyline.
There are multiple main characters; all well developed.
A death, a homecoming, bitcoin, and AI create a compelling tale that will keep you turning the pages.
How far technology has come is frightening but thankfully God remains in control.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. My opinions are my own.
Wow, the suspense kept me turning pages as fast as I could read! I enjoyed the light romance and faith threads too. The perpetrators were surprising and I loved the whole book and the ending! These two authors write wonderful books together, and I look forward to reading more from them!
"I Think I Was Murdered" by Colleen Coble is a gripping and emotionally resonant thriller that explores the complex interplay between grief, technology, and the search for truth. Coble's masterful storytelling draws the reader into the life of Katrina Berg, a young widow whose world has been shattered by the sudden loss of her beloved husband Jason.
The premise of the book - that Katrina is able to continue "talking" to Jason through a sophisticated AI chatbot - is a captivating and thought-provoking one. Coble deftly navigates the nuances of this relationship, capturing Katrina's profound longing for connection as well as the bittersweet and unsettling nature of her interactions with the AI. The twist that the chatbot delivers - claiming that Jason was in fact murdered - propels the narrative into a captivating mystery that kept me turning the pages.
Coble's characters are richly drawn and multidimensional. Katrina is a complex and sympathetic protagonist, her grief and struggles palpable on the page. The supporting cast, particularly local restaurateur Seb Wallace, are equally compelling, adding depth and texture to the story. The author's attention to detail in setting and atmosphere also enhances the reading experience, painting a vivid picture of the cozy northern California town that becomes the backdrop for Katrina's journey.
Ultimately, "I Think I Was Murdered" is a powerful exploration of the human experience - of loss, of love, and of the ways in which technology can both help and hinder our quest for meaning and connection. Coble's skilled storytelling and compelling characters make this a must-read for fans of suspenseful, emotionally resonant fiction. I highly recommend this captivating book.
Debbie D, Reviewer
This was an exciting story of deception, secrets, mystery, and starting over.. The characters were great, well developed and facing some real life issues. The plot was intriguing, and different than most thrillers. I truly enjoyed it, and highly recommend.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Diane H, Reviewer
I enjoyed this book. It was a little hard to get into, but after the first few chapters, I was hooked. You can tell that the authors have done a lot of research into the world of AI. There were parts that were a little confusing to me, but there is so much of AI that I don’t understand. This book had a good bit of mystery and action throughout. It definitely wasn’t boring!
I received this book from the publisher through NetGalley for my honest opinion.
katescleanreads S, Reviewer
A murder mystery with a twist!
“She didn’t want to be that person who looked back on her life and realized she’d missed the best life had to offer because she was afraid.”
What a fun title! It really grabbed me and carried me along right to the surprising conclusion. Even though I knew it was coming, when I read “I think I was murdered” in the text it still gave me chills. I am glad that the authors did not just incorporate the concept of AI, but also the idea that while AI can be used for good, it can also go too far. Advancements in technology can actually hold us back, and just because we can does not mean we should. I love that the authors separated truth from myth at the end, and that most of the tech was based on truth. The only warning I have is for a brief mention of suicide.
Technology, a bit of romance, and Christian themes – I enjoyed this book from beginning to end! I liked it even more than What We Hide and Fragile Designs. These two authors worked together seamlessly on this novel and I am eager for more.
*I received a complimentary copy of this e-book courtesy of Thomas Nelson Fiction through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Everything about this book was fascinating! From the title that grabs your attention, to the multilayered storyline with AI technology, danger, and suspense themes, to the various family issues. It has great characters and a beautiful setting for the backdrop to this unforgettable mystery. Coble and Acker make a dynamic team!
Katrina finds herself back home after the sudden loss of her grandmother, her company job on the line, and less than a year after an accident claims the life of her husband. When her deceased husband’s voice through the use of an AI technology bot tells her, “I think I was murdered.” It sets off a series of danger and events that take the reader on a thrilling ride that they never know what is coming next.
This book is an excellent addition to this series books by this author team. I found the use of AI technology in this storyline absolutely fascinating and took it to another level. I found it hard to put this one down and waiting anxiously to be able to read it again. This story will not disappoint!
I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are completely my own.
patricia r, Reviewer
katrina works for an ai bot company but her husband was killed in a car crash and now the ceo has left the country . she goes back to help with the restaurant that was left to her but something else is going on she has an app on the phone that she can ask and get an answer from her late husband and one is that he thinks he was murdered this is a good suspense story will written if you like suspense and some romance you will want to read this story i was given a copy of the book by netgalley but this is an honest review
Once again I have enjoyed reading Collen Coble (& Rick Acker)' s mystery thriller. What's more, learning a little bit about Bitcoin and chatbots was interesting. Katrina, Seb, Magnus, Liv and Dylan along with Agent Hughs, all added further intertwined intricacies to keep me guessing as they raced to find the key to the Satoshi egg. Who would find it first! Besides being tense at times I found the narrative to have some fun elements. I also liked the touches of faith in God factor. I believe the discussion questions at book's end would help a thoughtful reader suss out their conceptions regarding issues brought up in the novel.
Eunice C., Reviewer/Blogger
July 2024
Disclaimer: This is my honest opinion based the complimentary review copy sent by Net Galley and the publisher.
Goodreads review:
Thank you Netgalley for the advance copy!
This story is telling from the point of view of Seb, Dylan and Katrina - Katrina has just lost her grandmother and has been forced to confront her past, all while dealing with the loss of her husband the prior year. Seb is wrestling with himself & the past he’s tried to forget.. and Dylan is hiding something. I loved how the story ended up coming together. I would love to read more books by this author pair.
To the authors - WOW! Just wow! I loved it!
Be prepared for all the feels and a breakneck pace that keeps you up all night! This one's twisty from atmospheric start to toe curling finish! As a longtime fan of Colleen Coble, I've been waiting for the book that takes me back to her early Rock Harbor books like Haven of Swans. I was lucky enough to receive a free copy of I Think I Was Murdered from Netgalley while I was waiting for it to come out!
I Think I Was Murdered surpasses anything Coble has written before and it's exciting to see her explore new heights with author Rick Acker. The two take what could have been a sweet, small town romance, juxtapose it against Silicon Valley's dark underbelly, then christen it with an international flair that takes attains stylish heights in a tech savvy dream of a story! Every character draws you more deeply into Seb & Katrina's lives. Coble & Acker make nuance use of each to vividly bring to life a shared past while offering clues to their troubling present. The way Norwegian culture peppered throughout had me craving lingonberry covered waffles and Freia chocolate, but listening to the band No. 4 as Katrina fall for Seb and communicates with an AI bot of her dead husband left me too far on the edge of my seat to stop long enough to eat!
Lyndsie S, Reviewer
This technology-centered story could have been ripped straight from the headlines! Colleen Coble is one of my favorite authors because her books are always different and keep me on my toes. But this was a departure from anything she's done before, and I loved it.
The main character, Katrina Berg is a young widow who works as an attorney for an AI startup. To test their new chatbot, Katrina uses an app that helps her "talk" to her deceased husband, Jason.
Then, Katrina receives a message from the app stating, "I think I was murdered." Suddenly, Katrina's life is turned upside down. She's determined to find out who murdered Jason, but she has no idea how much danger she's in--and it's getting closer.
When Katrina returns to her hometown in northern California, she requests the help of an old friend, Seb Wallace. Together, they'll plunge into mystery, danger, and even new love.
I fell in love with the atmosphere in Katrina's hometown, even before I fell in love with Seb! This book left me craving waffles, ice cream, and crab cakes.
The story had lots of twists and turns and plenty of action. I thought the characters were great, and I loved the chemistry between Seb and Katrina.
I've never read anything like this before. The AI chatbot and all of the technology made this story so unique and took the mystery to a whole new level for me. This book is perfect for people who love technology--even if they're like me and don't understand it all! You should read this if you're a fan of Colleen already, but if you aren't, this book is the perfect place to start!
I'm so excited to see this new direction from Colleen and Rick Acker, and I can't wait to see more from them!
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Brandi R, Reviewer
Hold onto your seat for a truly unique and thrilling story! Collen Coble and Rick Acker team up again to bring a genuinely thought provoking story based on AI and delayed grief. Katrina is not ready to let go of Jason and with his information loaded into the chatbot, she does not have to. She can “talk” to him everyday. When her world turns upside down and she needs answers more than ever, she has to rely on other people for help and truth. As the heat gets turned up and mounting pressure surrounds her, she partners with Seb on a journey that is both painful and cathartic. There are significant twists and turns that made it impossible to put this book down. I love how modern and relevant this story is; it is so near to possible it is not a stretch to imagine how it all came together. The writing is fresh and seamless. I highly recommend this to those who enjoy thrilling, thought provoking stories with a little romance and a lot of second chances.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley and all opinions expressed are solely my own, freely given.
With each book I read by this author, I like her more and more. I loved the complexity of the story and the structure of the plot. The characters are rich and unforgettable. It was an excellent read
Tina K, Reviewer
Colleen Coble and Rick Acker have done it again! I Think I Was Murdered will keep you guessing until the end. When Katrina’s life is upended by the death of her husband and the loss of her job and an investigation led by the FBI about her job, she doesn’t think she can take much more. Then her dear grandmother dies and she returns home. She is alone and sad and her only relief from grief comes from a chatbot that she uses to “speak” to her dead husband. But when the bot tells her that he was murdered, the real mystery begins. Very well done! Five stars!
Michelle C, Reviewer
I Think I Was Murdered by Colleen Coble and Rick Acker is such a fabulous novel. It takes a unique spin on AI suspense. This book is just as brilliant as their first collaboration. I have so many questions about AI after reading this book. I loved this book and can’t recommend it enough. I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher with no obligations. These opinions are entirely my own.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I could not put this book down! This was a fast paced, roller coaster ride with many twists and turns. Absolute must read for all thriller and romantic suspense fans!
"I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own." eARC provided NetGalley
Melissa W, Reviewer
This team did not disappoint in their second book. Definitely on trend with AI and chatbots. I enjoyed the discussion questions at the end and can't wait to introduce this book to my book club. This is going to spark some amazing discussions with my group! How do you let go if you keep hanging on? Great book!
Jennifer B, Reviewer
This book was so good! Another great one from this duo. I’ve always loved Colleen Coble’s books but pairing up together with Rick Acker has been great too! Their books together work so well!
I received an ARC copy of this book from the out and NetGalley and all opinions are my own.
Renee N, Reviewer
I wasn't expecting this to be so twisty-turny. Well, I did because Colleen Coble is attached to it, but wow! Great premise. Highly entertaining characters and overall an awesome read!
A grieving young widow. The AI program that allows her to continue to "talk" to him. And a message she never expected: "I think I was murdered." Fantastic book and series!! I really am not into this type of genre but I am loving this series! This book has wonderful characters, suspense, intriguing, action, murder, mystery, a great who done it and some crazy twists and turns! The story was very interesting and kept me glued to my kindle! I highly recommend reading this book! Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for sharing this book with me!
I am loving this writing duo. Coble and Acker combine their individual talent to form what feels to be a new subgenre in Christian Romantic Suspense.
Life for Katrina Berg has been out of control for the last year. Grieving the death of her husband, Jason, she runs to an AI “chatbot” to text with a computer generated version on her late husband. When questionable business tactics by her employer leave her jobless and her beloved grandmother dies, Katrina once again runs to the chat or for comfort, but what she finds is far from
Comfort. Her “husband” chat bot sends the mysterious message, “I Think I was Murdered”. From there, the action, mysterious, and questions continue to unravel and lead her home to North Haven and the familiarity of her Bestemor’s Norwegian restaurant and the somehow familiar, Uber successful restauranteur, Seb Wallace.
The mystery kept me guessing. The characters were intriguing and well developed. This book allows the cozy atmosphere of North Haven to envelope you all will keeping you in the edge of your seat to find out what happened to Jason.
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Reasons to Read this Book:
1. Let’s just cut to the obvious visual…. Check out that cover!! Sigh…..
2. For anyone who read their first book together, you know that they are a terrific writing team. If you e ever read any of their individual books, you know how good they are. So….. Coble’s romantic suspense meets Acker’s legal suspense? Umm, YES, PLEASE!!
3. Though A.I. (artificial intelligence) admittedly creeps me out, this novel is so very timely for today. However, there can be good to come from it. Buuuuut, there can also be a whole lot of bad. The premise of this book is fascinating. Katrina, the main female character, uses her AI chatbot from work to “talk” to her late husband. Actual info, e-mails, social media, texts, etc. were all put into a chat bot to ‘become’ Jason. But, then one day, ‘he’ tells her that he was murdered!
5. The reader will find both positive and negative personal struggles, familial situations, and issues with the main characters as well as with some minor characters. It makes them very relatable.
6. There is a fantastic balance of intense moments and regular life. That balance always make the best suspense books by far. There is some mystery and a a treasure hunt of sorts within this story. There are clues that the female main character’s late husband had left for her. I was fully engaged in the adrenalin AND the everyday happenings throughout this book. This is a WOW novel!!
7. As someone who is more than half-Norwegian and who has travelled there twice, I truly enjoyed all the Scandinavian (predominantly Norwegian) references: meals, desserts, art, words/phrases, style, history, and various other things. This novel has prompted so many wonderful memories of my dearly missed Bestemor (Grandma), our trips there, all my family there, etc. This novel kept me in a state of “hygge” throughout….. 🥰 Norwegian heritage or not, anyone can appreciate the culture, history, and traditions that this book sprinkles out so beautifully.
After reading that amazing novel, I personally need a Norwegian lutefisk meal with some cloudberry dessert, and then some sjokalade on bread for a snack later. And someone must send me a boat load of Freia chocolate NOW because I personally KNOW how good it is!!! (The authors only mention it about 34 times or so! Or at least it felt that way because of my cravings!). I NEED some serious Freia chocolate time as I decompress from the amazing adventure that is this novel.
I do have ONE complaint….
As much as I wanted to keep swiping through my e-reader pages to learn what would happen next, I also didn’t want it to end! I felt invested in the characters and Norwegian settlement community of North Haven. Therefore, I feel I ‘deserve’ to not-so-subtly HINT that there should be a couple more books to make a series. I have minor characters already in mind who really should share their stories, too. Just sayin’….
***My appreciation for an advanced reader copy goes to Net Galley and the publisher. My review is voluntary and written in my own words.
I adored the setting for I Think I was Murdered. It's set in a Norwegian inspired town in California known for it's hygge. And that comfort is exactly what widow, Katrina, needs after she loses her job and her grandmother and travels back home. This story is intriguing as it explores the world of AI and bitcoin, But the real heart of the story lies in the people who surround Katrina. Her old friend, Seb Wallace, has certainly outgrown his awkward adolescent self and has made his way to the top of the restaurant business. He's there to help in any way he can. The balance of hygge and high tech makes for a fascinating story I didn't want to put down.. I received a free copy, and opinions are my own.
A very intriguing cover, title, and concept kept me hooked to the pages in I Think I was Murdered by Colleen Coble and Rick Acker. They’ve quickly become a dream team in the Christian romantic suspense world.
Katrina truly grieved the death of her husband and a chatbot offered the perfect responses when she needed to feel a connection to him. But her reliance became a crutch until it spouted the title, which was genius. I was wondering how anyone in their right mind would “think” they were murdered. Great premise and I can’t wait for more from these two.
Lastly, I liked the romance. Seb isn’t your conventional hero. It took a while for Katrina to have eyes for him. Also great job not having her be in love with him since they were young. He took that honor.
All in all, great book. Would’ve loved a little more triad interaction but the rock climbing scenes made up for that.
I received this book through Net Galley and was not required to give a positive review.
Kelli H, Reviewer
WOW! This writing duo is amazing! Coble and Acker write tight, fast-paced suspense like no other. Katrina Berg was working at a chat-bot start-up company and at the pinnacle of her career. She was madly in love with her husband Jason and life was grand.....until it wasn't! Jason was killed in a fiery car crash leaving her devastated and wondering how to go on. Her friend and co-worker, Liv, has installed a beta-protype chat-bot on her phone with all of Jason's emails, social media, pictures allowing her to "talk" to him every day. It's a crutch she knows that she needs to let go but can't - it's holding her together some days. One day when she asks it to tell her something she doesn't know, the message "I Think I Was Murdered" appears and the wild ride begins. When her grandmother dies, Katrina returns to her hometown for the funeral and finds she's inherited her grandma's restaurant. But with so much on her plate, she decides to sell to Seb Wallace, a local restaurateur. But things begin to spiral out of control and she's in a race to find out who wants her dead. Can she and Seb work together to figure out what's happening before it's too late? This amazing novel has so many twists and turns I couldn't put it down! Grab it for a late-night thriller - a 2024 must-read!
Reviewer 1365779
Wow, wow, wow!! This book kept ratcheting up the suspense! It was a GREAT story that kept me spellbound trying to figure everything out. I was suspicious a few times before the biggest reveal, but it still managed to mostly surprise me.
It does have light faith elements, the romance is sweet and kisses only.
Cassandra M, Educator
This was such a great book. I enjoyed reading this book. It was an easy read, and was very thought provoking. I enjoyed the characters, would definitely recommend to someone wanting an easy read or a change of pace.
Just when I thought this would be a four star book, it quickly turned into a five star. It started a little slow, but then wham! You don't want to miss this exciting book. It has suspense, romance, and a great story with memorable characters. There are a few times the wording and messages just really pulled me in. I have to quote this line, "Grief only eclipses those blessings for a little while. They're still there, and so is God."
I received a complimentary copy from Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Educator 1429670
“I think I was Murdered,” by Coleen Coble and Ricker Acker is a gripping mystery on the cutting edge of technology and AI development but with a delightfully warm hygge feel. This book is both cozy mystery and sci-fi thriller wrapped into one! I enjoyed this read and found it to be a perfect fall escape. This was an intriguing look into what is actually possible in this world of AI technology while also considering the very human elements of loss, family, hometown, and ultimately love.
Leah O, Reviewer
This was my first Colleen Coble and Rick Acker book- and it did not disappoint! I heard them talk about it during an author event and the concept of AI technology replicating "talking" to the MC's deceased husband was fascinating, I couldn't wait to read it. I was hooked within the first pages. What a ride this book was; the twists and turns I didn't expect kept happening just like the hair pin curves in the West Coast mountains where this book is set. I also loved the justice/redemption aspects, the sweet love story that deepened over time, the healing that took place in relationships, and the emphasis on family.
Whitney L, Reviewer
I have been provided with a review copy of this title from NetGalley for an impartial review. This was just a great read. I was just drawn in to this story so thoroughly. I just had so much fun reading this story.
Kay D, Reviewer
I Think I Was Murdered is the second book I read that Coollen Coble co-authored with Rick Acker. I enjoyed the writing style of these two authors. The storyline managed to keep me engaged and in suspense. The main character Katrina Berg had lost her husband the previous year in a tragic auto accident. It gives her a little bit of comfort that she still communicates with him via an AI chat program that compiles all of her late husband's emails, photos and social media content. In one "conversation" she had with him he said I thinkI was murdered. Due to a job upheaval she temporary moves back to her hometown that has a Norwegian flair. She inherits her beloved grandmother's restaurant. She also reconnects with her old school mate Seb Wallace. I have read just about every Colleen Coble book she has written and I thought I knew where the story was heading but I was wrong. It threw me for a loop. Don't want to say much more to spoil it for anyone wanting to read it.
I highly recommend this book for people who enjoy reading clean suspense novels. I was given a copy of this book by Netgalley from Thomas Nelson. All opions are my own.
Kristine D, Reviewer
This gripping psychological thriller masterfully blends grief, AI, and a murder mystery. Tension builds throughout the book leaving you questioning the boundaries of human control and machine power. A compelling read.
Beth M, Librarian
I Think I Was Murdered was an excellent story! I found the title intriguing, and was immediately hooked.
Katrina has been grieving her husband, Jason, for a year. To help her cope, she’s been using a chatbot that has all of her husband’s media information, so she feels like she’s actually talking to him. This was created as a prototype for her company, which is now in bankruptcy. But suddenly she’s called home for her beloved grandmother’s funeral. Katrina inherits her Bestemor’s restaurant, which causes hurt feelings and unpleasant family dynamics.
Feeling heartbroken, Katrina chats with Jason. While they are “talking”, he tells Katrina that he thinks he was murdered. She shares this information with her best friend, Liz, who helped create this Chatbot. Katrina also discovers that Jason believes he was killed because he found something extremely valuable. Katrina follows the clues, rediscovers old relationships, and realizes that not everyone close to her deserves her trust. Somebody is willing to go to any lengths to claim what Jason has hidden.
I highly recommend this book! I don’t know much about bitcoin or chatbots, but found this interesting. I loved the characters and found myself cheering for new love. #IThinkIWasMurdered #NetGalley
Barbara G, Librarian
This was an interesting look into Artificial Intelligence and the effect it can have on our lives. As many people are so obsessed with their phones, so is Katrina. She is relying on what her deceased husband is telling her through a a chatbot that her company developed.. Grief keeps her glued to what he is saying even when it puts her in danger. This book is a good lesson for us to put our phones down and talk to real people in real time.
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