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Steinbeck and Reed #3
The Laughing Dead
Two murder investigations, decades apart, threaten to expose a cold case agent’s darkest secrets in a pulse-pounding thriller by the Edgar Award–nominated author of The Taken Ones.
The bodies of three teenage girls are found in central Minnesota—each with her mouth fixed in a ghoulish grin, smiling at a deadly joke no one can hear. But authorities eventually close and forget the curious case, dubbed the Laughing Dead.
Decades later, cold case agent Evangeline “Van” Reed is called to the scene of a crime where the victim wears that same horror-movie smile. But this time someone seems to be sending a Van’s police ID has turned up at the scene, making her the prime suspect. It’s not that outlandish, considering her secrets—ones she’s never even told her partner, forensic scientist Harry Steinbeck.
As she feels others closing in, Van reopens the mystery of the Laughing Dead, hoping to find a connection to clear her name. But the search only gets darker. Because the more Van digs backward in time, the closer she comes to a terrible Everything she has spent her life trying to hide is returning to haunt her.
The bodies of three teenage girls are found in central Minnesota—each with her mouth fixed in a ghoulish grin, smiling at a deadly joke no one can hear. But authorities eventually close and forget the curious case, dubbed the Laughing Dead.
Decades later, cold case agent Evangeline “Van” Reed is called to the scene of a crime where the victim wears that same horror-movie smile. But this time someone seems to be sending a Van’s police ID has turned up at the scene, making her the prime suspect. It’s not that outlandish, considering her secrets—ones she’s never even told her partner, forensic scientist Harry Steinbeck.
As she feels others closing in, Van reopens the mystery of the Laughing Dead, hoping to find a connection to clear her name. But the search only gets darker. Because the more Van digs backward in time, the closer she comes to a terrible Everything she has spent her life trying to hide is returning to haunt her.
329 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 22, 2025
1204 people are currently reading
7635 people want to read
About the author
Jess Lourey
49 books4,213 followersWhile I write across genres, there's one universal connecting all my books: secrets. I grew up in a house choking with them, and I remain fascinated by the thoughts and actions we hide from the world.
My beginnings as an author were pretty grim, something I speak about in my TEDx Talk (https://youtu.be/a5vSLh3oPXI). I've come a long way since that first book, and I'm proud to call myself an Amazon Charts bestselling, twice Edgar-nominated, twice Goodreads Readers Choice Awards shortlisted, ITW Thriller and Minnesota Book Award and Anthony Award-winning author of nonfiction, children's books, young adult, book club fiction, and crime fiction. I've reached over a million readers since 2020. I also love to teach creative writing in international workshops.
I live in Minneapolis with a rotating batch of foster kittens (and occasional foster puppies, but man those goobers are a lot of work). Pop on over to Lourey's Literati, my VIP Reader group on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/groups/38538...) and/or sign up for my molasses newsletter (https://jessicalourey.com/newsletter) , for the latest news, giveaways, and insider information.
My beginnings as an author were pretty grim, something I speak about in my TEDx Talk (https://youtu.be/a5vSLh3oPXI). I've come a long way since that first book, and I'm proud to call myself an Amazon Charts bestselling, twice Edgar-nominated, twice Goodreads Readers Choice Awards shortlisted, ITW Thriller and Minnesota Book Award and Anthony Award-winning author of nonfiction, children's books, young adult, book club fiction, and crime fiction. I've reached over a million readers since 2020. I also love to teach creative writing in international workshops.
I live in Minneapolis with a rotating batch of foster kittens (and occasional foster puppies, but man those goobers are a lot of work). Pop on over to Lourey's Literati, my VIP Reader group on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/groups/38538...) and/or sign up for my molasses newsletter (https://jessicalourey.com/newsletter) , for the latest news, giveaways, and insider information.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 354 reviews
September 3, 2025
Oh. My. God. From the two brilliantly interwoven plot lines to the dynamite duo of Harry and Van, The Laughing Dead was everything I could want from a book in a crime thriller series. With dual timelines and multiple POVs, the complex plot of enigmatic, long-buried secrets swiftly grew into a dark and chilling tale. You see, with a cult-like commune at the core of Van’s past, the trauma and self-blame gave her a realistic persona despite the curse of her supernatural gift. Shrewd, plucky, and believably flawed, she was a large part of what made this book sing. Well, alongside of the lovable Owl, of course, who just might be one of my all-time favorite characters. Bravo, Ms. Lourey!
As for the plot, it was a masterclass in suspense. Action-packed and fast-paced, the storyline twisted and turned with utter precision as new details were revealed. And despite the fact that I needed to suspend all disbelief, I got sucked in by the deft plotting and the multiple revelations as quick as could be. After all, all of these seemingly disparate parts couldn’t have been easy to mold into shape. But it was the tearjerker ending that did me in 100%. Wrapping up this third book in a series, it sadly seems to be the last even if I wish that it wasn’t. Now I definitely need to go back and read the first two. Oh, yes. I was that idiot who missed reading the series in order.
All said and done, while this book could easily be read as a standalone, I wouldn’t suggest it. You see, despite the fact that I wasn’t lost in the slightest, I missed out on several years of fun with Harry and Van. You better believe, though, that I’m going to rectify my mistake now as quick as I can. After all, with a dark and twisted premise that had a side helping of a heartwarming friendship, the layers inside of this winner were simply sublime. Thanks to a creepy, atmospheric vibe, a sort unreliable narrator, and plenty of palpable tension, the short chapters had me finishing this book in under twenty-four hours. So don’t wait. Go buy this book now. I promise that you’ll thank me later. Rating of 5 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
The bodies of three teenage girls are found in central Minnesota—each with her mouth fixed in a ghoulish grin, smiling at a deadly joke no one can hear. But authorities eventually close and forget the curious case, dubbed the Laughing Dead.
Decades later, cold case agent Evangeline “Van” Reed is called to the scene of a crime where the victim wears that same horror-movie smile. But this time someone seems to be sending a message: Van’s police ID has turned up at the scene, making her the prime suspect. It’s not that outlandish, considering her secrets—ones she’s never even told her partner, forensic scientist Harry Steinbeck.
As she feels others closing in, Van reopens the mystery of the Laughing Dead, hoping to find a connection to clear her name. But the search only gets darker. Because the more Van digs backward in time, the closer she comes to a terrible truth: Everything she has spent her life trying to hide is returning to haunt her.
Thank you to Jess Lourey and Thomas & Mercer for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: July 22, 2025
Content warning: forced captivity, kidnapping, murder, domestic violence, cult, poisoning
As for the plot, it was a masterclass in suspense. Action-packed and fast-paced, the storyline twisted and turned with utter precision as new details were revealed. And despite the fact that I needed to suspend all disbelief, I got sucked in by the deft plotting and the multiple revelations as quick as could be. After all, all of these seemingly disparate parts couldn’t have been easy to mold into shape. But it was the tearjerker ending that did me in 100%. Wrapping up this third book in a series, it sadly seems to be the last even if I wish that it wasn’t. Now I definitely need to go back and read the first two. Oh, yes. I was that idiot who missed reading the series in order.
All said and done, while this book could easily be read as a standalone, I wouldn’t suggest it. You see, despite the fact that I wasn’t lost in the slightest, I missed out on several years of fun with Harry and Van. You better believe, though, that I’m going to rectify my mistake now as quick as I can. After all, with a dark and twisted premise that had a side helping of a heartwarming friendship, the layers inside of this winner were simply sublime. Thanks to a creepy, atmospheric vibe, a sort unreliable narrator, and plenty of palpable tension, the short chapters had me finishing this book in under twenty-four hours. So don’t wait. Go buy this book now. I promise that you’ll thank me later. Rating of 5 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
The bodies of three teenage girls are found in central Minnesota—each with her mouth fixed in a ghoulish grin, smiling at a deadly joke no one can hear. But authorities eventually close and forget the curious case, dubbed the Laughing Dead.
Decades later, cold case agent Evangeline “Van” Reed is called to the scene of a crime where the victim wears that same horror-movie smile. But this time someone seems to be sending a message: Van’s police ID has turned up at the scene, making her the prime suspect. It’s not that outlandish, considering her secrets—ones she’s never even told her partner, forensic scientist Harry Steinbeck.
As she feels others closing in, Van reopens the mystery of the Laughing Dead, hoping to find a connection to clear her name. But the search only gets darker. Because the more Van digs backward in time, the closer she comes to a terrible truth: Everything she has spent her life trying to hide is returning to haunt her.
Thank you to Jess Lourey and Thomas & Mercer for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: July 22, 2025
Content warning: forced captivity, kidnapping, murder, domestic violence, cult, poisoning
July 4, 2025
I’ve been so excited to read this newest installment of this series. Ever since I read the prequel of this series, I’ve been infatuated with the series, especially that ending in the last installment. Without giving away any spoilers for those that haven’t read the second installment, this one picks up a few weeks later and Van is still getting the flashbacks and nightmares of the cult she grew up in as a kid and escaped when the psychotic cult leader was captured. Van also got a real bad feeling that her father, Frank, may have kidnapped Harry’s sister, Caroline, many years ago and that Caroline may have been one of the cult mothers that Van knew as Cordelia.
The book summary basically introduces the primary storyline of the two present day investigations: one the death of a woman, Biggs (that Van knew), who was murdered while staying in a women’s shelter and hiding out from her abuser. The other investigation is of three girls who were killed the same exact way, back in 1986. There is also a secondary storyline of a woman, Judy, who was kidnapped back in 1986, and has been held hostage by a psychotic man, who is holding several other women hostage along with all the kids he has fathered with the women, as well as the kids he has fathered with other women who have disappeared from the compound over the years.
The story flips back and forth between Van and Harry’s present-day investigation of all the women who were murdered by poison and the past story of Judy being held hostage and the horrors and brainwashing she goes through over the years. Throughout the story, Van’s mental and physical state becomes increasingly precarious. She’s sleep deprived and is certain that someone is stalking her. Her one saving grace is the dog, a Boxer named Owl, who belonged to one of the victims that Van ends up fostering. I LOVED that about Van, despite everything she was going through, she rescued a doggie in need.
It's deep into the second half that all the storylines collide in a really scary and intense ending that got kind of chaotic and messy. I truly hope this is not the end of the series and this was nothing more than a trilogy for Loury. Did anyone else feel a kind of finality to the series?
The continuing character development of Van and Harry was well done. If the series is continuing, it would have been good to get a little more development on the ensemble characters. The pacing was steady to fast and the continued storyline of Harry’s missing sister and Van’s childhood in the cult was interesting. The writing was on par for the series, but, once again, the ending seemed kind of messy and maybe a little rushed, but still good. I’m looking at a solid overall rating of four for a 4star review. I want to thank NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for sending me this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
#NetGalley #ThomasMercer #TheLaughingDead
The book summary basically introduces the primary storyline of the two present day investigations: one the death of a woman, Biggs (that Van knew), who was murdered while staying in a women’s shelter and hiding out from her abuser. The other investigation is of three girls who were killed the same exact way, back in 1986. There is also a secondary storyline of a woman, Judy, who was kidnapped back in 1986, and has been held hostage by a psychotic man, who is holding several other women hostage along with all the kids he has fathered with the women, as well as the kids he has fathered with other women who have disappeared from the compound over the years.
The story flips back and forth between Van and Harry’s present-day investigation of all the women who were murdered by poison and the past story of Judy being held hostage and the horrors and brainwashing she goes through over the years. Throughout the story, Van’s mental and physical state becomes increasingly precarious. She’s sleep deprived and is certain that someone is stalking her. Her one saving grace is the dog, a Boxer named Owl, who belonged to one of the victims that Van ends up fostering. I LOVED that about Van, despite everything she was going through, she rescued a doggie in need.
It's deep into the second half that all the storylines collide in a really scary and intense ending that got kind of chaotic and messy. I truly hope this is not the end of the series and this was nothing more than a trilogy for Loury. Did anyone else feel a kind of finality to the series?
The continuing character development of Van and Harry was well done. If the series is continuing, it would have been good to get a little more development on the ensemble characters. The pacing was steady to fast and the continued storyline of Harry’s missing sister and Van’s childhood in the cult was interesting. The writing was on par for the series, but, once again, the ending seemed kind of messy and maybe a little rushed, but still good. I’m looking at a solid overall rating of four for a 4star review. I want to thank NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for sending me this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
#NetGalley #ThomasMercer #TheLaughingDead
March 9, 2025
My Rating: 5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Easy 5 Stars for me!! Love this Series and Loved this Book!!
Two murder investigations, deceased apart, threaten to expose a cold case agent’s darkest secrets. The bodies of three girls are found in their beds in the 80’s each with a their mouths fixed with a ghoulish grin, smiling at a deadly joke no one can hear. But authorities eventually rule no foul play and close and forget the curious cases.
Decades later, Evangeline “Van” Reed. Is called to the scene of a crime where the victim wears the same horror-movie smile. But this time sometime seems to be sending Van a message, her police ID is at the scene making her a prime suspect. The more Van digs in to the case, the past and her own secrets the more deadly things become for her… her insomnia is out of control and she begins to doubt her own mind.
Can she work out what is going on before its too late.
OK!! This is part of a series, there are three books and a short story prequel they are all on Kindle Unlimited and they are all awesome! This story will not read well as a standalone although there is recap… I don’t recommend it plus… the others are just awesome so why not just do yourself a favour.
First of all a huge shoutout to my GR Buddy Kristy for bringing my attention to this one on NetGalley, the minute I saw her message.. I ran to NG, downloaded it, sped read my current read and then promptly started AND finished this one all in the same day… now I am of course devastated at my lack of self control and the fact that it’s over!!! NO REGRETS I WOULD DO IT AGAIN!!!
I love this series… its not my usual style there is a little bit of a woo woo… Van has visions… that might seem weird but just go with it. Honestly its not ghosts and truly it actually adds to the creep factor of these books. I mean its fiction after all and its only a little bit of woo woo… just the woo!!
I love all the characters in this series, Van, Harry, the supporting acts, the DOG Owl aww you’re gonna love her!!!
This book really brings it home too… there is A LOT of closure… we have some running storylines that we needed answers to that we finally get… I am not doing spoilers but honestly if you are waiting on the answers to secrets, lies and WTF happened with Frank… you’re gonna find out. There are twists and turns and there are aww moments and OMG moments… literally this has everything.
Maybe I am biased (of course) but I just love this series so much. The little prequel really was worth reading it sets the scene for the whole series and I as glad I read it cause it intro’s into the woo woo I was talking about and made me go.. hmm not too bad I could handle that.
These books push the limits of supernatural and you think OMG NO NOT GHOSTS but honestly there are not ghosts I promise. ALSO, the twists of who ended up being who was just “chefs kiss” and yeah I guessed a couple but who cares… it was done really well.
You aren’t going to get me to shit on these books.. and this one was no different. Again thank you Kristy for the red alert to this one… I just honestly hope that Jess Lourey keeps writing these I love them… sure some parts are closed now… but we could literally just keep the series going!! Right Jess??? Come on… just do it Please!!!
Overall, I am going to recommend to everyone, you may not love it as much as me but they are entertaining and they are fun and Van is a loose cannon but a good one. Harry is the ultimate gentleman and you will love his nerdy style as well… everything is just great. There is a cult factor… and well.. just read it go on!! But go back to the prequel don’t rip yourself off!
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and Thomas and Mercer for this ARC (which made my week) in exchange for an honest review.
Two murder investigations, deceased apart, threaten to expose a cold case agent’s darkest secrets. The bodies of three girls are found in their beds in the 80’s each with a their mouths fixed with a ghoulish grin, smiling at a deadly joke no one can hear. But authorities eventually rule no foul play and close and forget the curious cases.
Decades later, Evangeline “Van” Reed. Is called to the scene of a crime where the victim wears the same horror-movie smile. But this time sometime seems to be sending Van a message, her police ID is at the scene making her a prime suspect. The more Van digs in to the case, the past and her own secrets the more deadly things become for her… her insomnia is out of control and she begins to doubt her own mind.
Can she work out what is going on before its too late.
OK!! This is part of a series, there are three books and a short story prequel they are all on Kindle Unlimited and they are all awesome! This story will not read well as a standalone although there is recap… I don’t recommend it plus… the others are just awesome so why not just do yourself a favour.
First of all a huge shoutout to my GR Buddy Kristy for bringing my attention to this one on NetGalley, the minute I saw her message.. I ran to NG, downloaded it, sped read my current read and then promptly started AND finished this one all in the same day… now I am of course devastated at my lack of self control and the fact that it’s over!!! NO REGRETS I WOULD DO IT AGAIN!!!
I love this series… its not my usual style there is a little bit of a woo woo… Van has visions… that might seem weird but just go with it. Honestly its not ghosts and truly it actually adds to the creep factor of these books. I mean its fiction after all and its only a little bit of woo woo… just the woo!!
I love all the characters in this series, Van, Harry, the supporting acts, the DOG Owl aww you’re gonna love her!!!
This book really brings it home too… there is A LOT of closure… we have some running storylines that we needed answers to that we finally get… I am not doing spoilers but honestly if you are waiting on the answers to secrets, lies and WTF happened with Frank… you’re gonna find out. There are twists and turns and there are aww moments and OMG moments… literally this has everything.
Maybe I am biased (of course) but I just love this series so much. The little prequel really was worth reading it sets the scene for the whole series and I as glad I read it cause it intro’s into the woo woo I was talking about and made me go.. hmm not too bad I could handle that.
These books push the limits of supernatural and you think OMG NO NOT GHOSTS but honestly there are not ghosts I promise. ALSO, the twists of who ended up being who was just “chefs kiss” and yeah I guessed a couple but who cares… it was done really well.
You aren’t going to get me to shit on these books.. and this one was no different. Again thank you Kristy for the red alert to this one… I just honestly hope that Jess Lourey keeps writing these I love them… sure some parts are closed now… but we could literally just keep the series going!! Right Jess??? Come on… just do it Please!!!
Overall, I am going to recommend to everyone, you may not love it as much as me but they are entertaining and they are fun and Van is a loose cannon but a good one. Harry is the ultimate gentleman and you will love his nerdy style as well… everything is just great. There is a cult factor… and well.. just read it go on!! But go back to the prequel don’t rip yourself off!
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and Thomas and Mercer for this ARC (which made my week) in exchange for an honest review.
July 11, 2025
This is the 3rd book in the Steinbeck and Reed series and boy, does it go out with a bang! This can be read as a standalone, however, I think reading the first book would help immensely with following along.
In 1986, three teenage girls turn up dead with a ghoulish grin across their faces. They are ruled as suicides and dubbed The Laughing Dead.
Decades later, a body is found dead with the same horrific grin across their face. Reed’s old police ID is left at the scene as a message. However, what’s the message? Is she being set up for murder?
This is a very intricate crime novel that travels through different timelines. You have to pay attention to detail. Yes, detective Reed’s secret past is explained but I feel more will be understood by reading the first book.
I loved that the story showcases a dog named Owl! I love it when pets are involved. I also enjoyed seeing how Steinbeck and Reed’s relationship evolved. Minnesota crime novels are some of my favorites! I definitely recommend giving this crime series a read!
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
In 1986, three teenage girls turn up dead with a ghoulish grin across their faces. They are ruled as suicides and dubbed The Laughing Dead.
Decades later, a body is found dead with the same horrific grin across their face. Reed’s old police ID is left at the scene as a message. However, what’s the message? Is she being set up for murder?
This is a very intricate crime novel that travels through different timelines. You have to pay attention to detail. Yes, detective Reed’s secret past is explained but I feel more will be understood by reading the first book.
I loved that the story showcases a dog named Owl! I love it when pets are involved. I also enjoyed seeing how Steinbeck and Reed’s relationship evolved. Minnesota crime novels are some of my favorites! I definitely recommend giving this crime series a read!
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
August 2, 2025
You Can’t Pick Your Family
Van is called in on a murder case, mostly because one of her old badges were found at the scene. Van concentrated on cold cases, and wondered if this case was connected to any others.
With her old friend Harry Steinbeck and Kyle, an up and coming investigator, Van found the trail leading not only to cold cases, but to her father and the horrible commune she was raised in.
This entire series was excellent, but somehow this book was even better. Odds and ends from the other books are wrapped up in this one. So much so, that I worry this will be the end for Harry and Van stories. I hope not, but if this is the final book, it was a perfect five star conclusion.
Van is called in on a murder case, mostly because one of her old badges were found at the scene. Van concentrated on cold cases, and wondered if this case was connected to any others.
With her old friend Harry Steinbeck and Kyle, an up and coming investigator, Van found the trail leading not only to cold cases, but to her father and the horrible commune she was raised in.
This entire series was excellent, but somehow this book was even better. Odds and ends from the other books are wrapped up in this one. So much so, that I worry this will be the end for Harry and Van stories. I hope not, but if this is the final book, it was a perfect five star conclusion.
April 1, 2025
First off, a HUGE thank you to NetGalley, Jess Lourey, and the Thomas and Mercer publishing team for providing the eARC of The Laughing Dead in exchange for my honest review! 🎉💖 When I say I finished this book in LESS THAN 24 hours after it landed on my Kindle, I mean it! No exaggeration here, y'all! 📚💨 Jess Lourey has done it again! This exceptional thriller has easily become the BEST thriller I’ve read this year! 🏅
Mark Your Calendars! 📆
This gripping read is anticipated to be officially published on July 22, 2025. You won’t want to miss it! 🗓️✨
While this is the third book in the Steinbeck and Reed series, I genuinely believe you can dive right into it without reading the first two books. Jess does a fantastic job providing just enough backstory through flashbacks into Evangeline’s history. Of course, if you prefer to explore the full world, I highly recommend picking up The Taken Ones and The Reaping for a richer experience! However, rest assured, you can absolutely enjoy The Laughing Dead as a standalone! 🎊✨
Synopsis Breakdown 📖🔍
The story kicks off with the chilling discovery of three teenage girls in central Minnesota, each wearing a haunting, fixed grin that suggests they’re in on a sinister joke. As the case slips into the shadows of cold cases, we fast forward decades later, where our courageous cold case agent, Van Reed, finds herself connected to a new murder that echoes the horrors of the past — with her police ID turning up ominously at the scene! The stakes are incredibly high, and so are the secrets! 🤫💔
The Mastermind Behind the Madness: Jess Lourey has an incredible knack for crafting villains with bizarre and fascinating medical anomalies. It makes for a chilling yet captivating read! 🤯🩸 Her genius mind knows no bounds when it comes to the most sinister criminals, which keeps you on the edge of your seat!
Van Reed is such a compelling protagonist with her deep, dark secrets. As her layers unfold, I found myself rooting for her even while I questioned her choices. Her relationship with forensic scientist Harry Steinbeck added so much depth and emotion, perfectly balancing the suspense with a pinch of tenderness. 💔💼
As the past and present collide in unpredictable ways, each chapter had me biting my nails in suspense! Just when I thought I had it all figured out, Lourey threw in another twist that knocked me right off my feet! 🤯📈 You will NOT want to put this book down!
The Laughing Dead cements Jess Lourey’s status as a master of thrilling fiction! The pulse-pounding plot, rich character development, and eerie atmosphere combined to create a reading experience that I will remember for a long time to come. This book is one you’ll want to add to your TBR pile ASAP! 🤩📖
Have you read The Laughing Dead yet? If not, what are you waiting for? Grab your copy on July 22, 2025, and let Jess Lourey take you on a whirlwind ride you won’t forget! 🚀💖
Mark Your Calendars! 📆
This gripping read is anticipated to be officially published on July 22, 2025. You won’t want to miss it! 🗓️✨
While this is the third book in the Steinbeck and Reed series, I genuinely believe you can dive right into it without reading the first two books. Jess does a fantastic job providing just enough backstory through flashbacks into Evangeline’s history. Of course, if you prefer to explore the full world, I highly recommend picking up The Taken Ones and The Reaping for a richer experience! However, rest assured, you can absolutely enjoy The Laughing Dead as a standalone! 🎊✨
Synopsis Breakdown 📖🔍
The story kicks off with the chilling discovery of three teenage girls in central Minnesota, each wearing a haunting, fixed grin that suggests they’re in on a sinister joke. As the case slips into the shadows of cold cases, we fast forward decades later, where our courageous cold case agent, Van Reed, finds herself connected to a new murder that echoes the horrors of the past — with her police ID turning up ominously at the scene! The stakes are incredibly high, and so are the secrets! 🤫💔
The Mastermind Behind the Madness: Jess Lourey has an incredible knack for crafting villains with bizarre and fascinating medical anomalies. It makes for a chilling yet captivating read! 🤯🩸 Her genius mind knows no bounds when it comes to the most sinister criminals, which keeps you on the edge of your seat!
Van Reed is such a compelling protagonist with her deep, dark secrets. As her layers unfold, I found myself rooting for her even while I questioned her choices. Her relationship with forensic scientist Harry Steinbeck added so much depth and emotion, perfectly balancing the suspense with a pinch of tenderness. 💔💼
As the past and present collide in unpredictable ways, each chapter had me biting my nails in suspense! Just when I thought I had it all figured out, Lourey threw in another twist that knocked me right off my feet! 🤯📈 You will NOT want to put this book down!
The Laughing Dead cements Jess Lourey’s status as a master of thrilling fiction! The pulse-pounding plot, rich character development, and eerie atmosphere combined to create a reading experience that I will remember for a long time to come. This book is one you’ll want to add to your TBR pile ASAP! 🤩📖
Have you read The Laughing Dead yet? If not, what are you waiting for? Grab your copy on July 22, 2025, and let Jess Lourey take you on a whirlwind ride you won’t forget! 🚀💖
July 19, 2025
Van Reed gets a call out to a ghoulish crime scene. The victim has died with a smile on their face. It’s just like one of her cold cases from decades ago, The Laughing Dead.
Harry Steinbeck a forensic scientist helps her with the investigation. This is the 3rd book in the series and all are really good. Thanks NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for this eARC that will be published July 22, 2025!
Harry Steinbeck a forensic scientist helps her with the investigation. This is the 3rd book in the series and all are really good. Thanks NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for this eARC that will be published July 22, 2025!
July 10, 2025
I arrived late to this series at book 3, sometimes that’s not an issue, but I definitely felt like I’d really missed out on the first 2.
Cold case detective Van, escaped a cult and used her natural gift to gain a criminology degree, now with the discovery of a body found in a state that is reminiscent of closed cases decades ago, it seems appropriate to open a cold case and a series of murders for Van to solve. Her old police id is found at the scene and it seems that the killer is taunting her, could it be the past, calling her in ?
This was really enjoyable, and there’s a lovely boxer dog named Owl in the pages who will surely win your heart.
Great plot, great characters and a brilliant story, I wish I’d read the first two, I’m sure I’d have been able to rate this higher.
Excellent narration!
Huge thanks to Brilliance Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to review this ALC 🎧
Cold case detective Van, escaped a cult and used her natural gift to gain a criminology degree, now with the discovery of a body found in a state that is reminiscent of closed cases decades ago, it seems appropriate to open a cold case and a series of murders for Van to solve. Her old police id is found at the scene and it seems that the killer is taunting her, could it be the past, calling her in ?
This was really enjoyable, and there’s a lovely boxer dog named Owl in the pages who will surely win your heart.
Great plot, great characters and a brilliant story, I wish I’d read the first two, I’m sure I’d have been able to rate this higher.
Excellent narration!
Huge thanks to Brilliance Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to review this ALC 🎧
August 5, 2025
10 stars!!!! Loved loved loved it! Full RTC!!
June 23, 2025
This is the third book in a series but can still be read as a stand-alone!
A detective who grew up in a cult and has visions of crimes taking place (pretty interesting!) finds herself in the middle of a mysterious death investigation when her ID is found at the scene. The deceased in question is found with a wide grin on her face (point to the book title) making things extra creepy!
I enjoyed this book! I liked the character of the female detective she was quirky and sassy and her psychic abilities made her more interesting!
The book is a bit of a slow burn but has a fast moving pace when you listen to the audio book version! The narrator did a great job 🙏🏻
Thank you to Brilliance publishing / audio for the gifted copy
Publishes - July 22nd!
A detective who grew up in a cult and has visions of crimes taking place (pretty interesting!) finds herself in the middle of a mysterious death investigation when her ID is found at the scene. The deceased in question is found with a wide grin on her face (point to the book title) making things extra creepy!
I enjoyed this book! I liked the character of the female detective she was quirky and sassy and her psychic abilities made her more interesting!
The book is a bit of a slow burn but has a fast moving pace when you listen to the audio book version! The narrator did a great job 🙏🏻
Thank you to Brilliance publishing / audio for the gifted copy
Publishes - July 22nd!
July 22, 2025
PERFECT for fans of the horror movie Smile 😈
I’m loving this series and really hope a fourth book comes out!
I’m loving this series and really hope a fourth book comes out!
June 8, 2025
Well this one left me afraid and reaching to turn the lights on more than once. It was great to be back with Van and Harry, although I wish we could have had more moments of the two of them together (I love their dynamic).
When a woman is found dead with a connection to Van, she and Harry soon uncover past deaths that look to be linked. All the while, Van begins looking into her own past, trying to put pieces together and causing her personal life to unravel. Between the eeriness of “the laughing dead” crimes and the raw and vivid “nightmares”’and visions Van has, I was tense the whole time. I did find the main mystery predictable, but it was the nuances and the atmosphere that kept me on my toes.
I was afraid we’d see Van stagnant again in her personal growth and so was excited to see that as the story wound down, she began to make progress. I’m eager to seem this continue and am hopeful this won’t be the last we see of Van and Harry.
I received an advanced copy through Netgalley in return for an honest review.
When a woman is found dead with a connection to Van, she and Harry soon uncover past deaths that look to be linked. All the while, Van begins looking into her own past, trying to put pieces together and causing her personal life to unravel. Between the eeriness of “the laughing dead” crimes and the raw and vivid “nightmares”’and visions Van has, I was tense the whole time. I did find the main mystery predictable, but it was the nuances and the atmosphere that kept me on my toes.
I was afraid we’d see Van stagnant again in her personal growth and so was excited to see that as the story wound down, she began to make progress. I’m eager to seem this continue and am hopeful this won’t be the last we see of Van and Harry.
I received an advanced copy through Netgalley in return for an honest review.
August 3, 2025
I've been waiting for this third (and perhaps final) book in the Steinbeck and Reed series. I gave the preceding books, which were atmospheric and deeply suspenseful, 4.5 stars. The second book, particularly, was brilliant!
The Laughing Dead, which is NOT a standalone, isn't of the same caliber and didn't fully pique my interest until the home stretch.
Evangeline (aka, Van), a detective with the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, is back on her home turf investigating a trio of cold cases possibly tied to a recent murder. She struggles sleeping. She's as big a slob as ever. Guilt threatens to consume her.
The one saving grace is Owl, a Boxer Van is fostering. Owl is such a good girl!
I'm no super sleuth and enjoy being surprised, but saw most of the reveals in this book coming from chapters away. I figured out who Mother Mary was almost immediately and who was not long after.
We find out that Father Frank - serial killer, rapist, cult leader, and all around great guy, who also happens to be Van's bio father - died in a plane crash.
There were other things that didn't quite add up , but I'm done ranting.
The contemporary murders Van is investigating are swept under the rug. The cold cases are more absorbing, and the families and friends left behind richly drawn. My heart broke for the grieving father, the boyfriend who never moved on, the friends who blamed themselves.
No doubt Jess Lourey is a supremely talented writer. Her grace with words (and Owl!) saved this book for me.
The Laughing Dead, which is NOT a standalone, isn't of the same caliber and didn't fully pique my interest until the home stretch.
Evangeline (aka, Van), a detective with the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, is back on her home turf investigating a trio of cold cases possibly tied to a recent murder. She struggles sleeping. She's as big a slob as ever. Guilt threatens to consume her.
The one saving grace is Owl, a Boxer Van is fostering. Owl is such a good girl!
I'm no super sleuth and enjoy being surprised, but saw most of the reveals in this book coming from chapters away. I figured out who Mother Mary was almost immediately and who was not long after.
We find out that Father Frank - serial killer, rapist, cult leader, and all around great guy, who also happens to be Van's bio father - died in a plane crash.
There were other things that didn't quite add up , but I'm done ranting.
The contemporary murders Van is investigating are swept under the rug. The cold cases are more absorbing, and the families and friends left behind richly drawn. My heart broke for the grieving father, the boyfriend who never moved on, the friends who blamed themselves.
No doubt Jess Lourey is a supremely talented writer. Her grace with words (and Owl!) saved this book for me.
July 30, 2025
I really hope there’s another installment :) Van and Harry forever 🧡
June 25, 2025
The Laughing Dead, book three of the Steinbeck and Reed Thriller series, picks up right where book two left off ensuring that readers never miss a beat. Evangeline Reed (Van), rule-bending cold case investigator, and Harry Steinbeck, non-nonsense forensic scientist, are pairing up again; this time to investigate a mysterious death that Van may be tied up in.
Narrative shifts back and forth through the past—1986, specifically—when a series of young girls were mysteriously murdered, and the present where the same M.O. pops up. This book dives deeper in to Van's lurid and traumatic past so if you loved book one (The Taken Ones), you're going to love this one too. With short chapters that keep the pace moving, nail-biting tension, and jaw-dropping reveals, The Laughing Dead is sure to delight any thriller lover.
Thank you Thomas & Mercer for the early copy in exchange for an honest review. Available Jul. 22 2025
Narrative shifts back and forth through the past—1986, specifically—when a series of young girls were mysteriously murdered, and the present where the same M.O. pops up. This book dives deeper in to Van's lurid and traumatic past so if you loved book one (The Taken Ones), you're going to love this one too. With short chapters that keep the pace moving, nail-biting tension, and jaw-dropping reveals, The Laughing Dead is sure to delight any thriller lover.
Thank you Thomas & Mercer for the early copy in exchange for an honest review. Available Jul. 22 2025
June 27, 2025
First of all, I’m obsessed with Owl. Secondly, I’m obsessed with Steinbeck and Reed. They are the absolute dream team! Lastly, read this book. Twists and turns and so much HUMANITY are packed into this hopefully not final book of the series!
July 27, 2025
Story 4.5 stars. Narration 4.5 stars
This third book in the series was exciting at times but still managed to show an even more vulnerable side to Evangeline (Van), if that’s even possible. Van is a detective who has a backstory that’s almost as bad as any of her horrific cases she helps solve. Once a girl born into a cult run by a horror show of a person, now she controls her environment in a way that goes against her upbringing-she lives in filth, garbage and is alone in her life. Now she has a friend in Harry, a forensic pathologist she works with at the bureau. They’ve gone through a lot together in the first two books and no there is no romance. This time she starts fostering a dog she falls in love with. She’s almost needy in the way she treats the dog. I love when an animal is so important to a story. Van has huge secrets in her life. One is her visions of crimes in nightmares. It’s helped her solve crimes over the years but she doesn’t advertise that fact even at work. This case concerns women that die with very unnatural smiles on their faces. She and Harry are the investigators. On her own, she is also investigating Harry’s missing sister. This was well written and plotted with plenty of suspense and mystery interspersed with Van and the dog. I really liked this one and highly recommend the whole series.
This third book in the series was exciting at times but still managed to show an even more vulnerable side to Evangeline (Van), if that’s even possible. Van is a detective who has a backstory that’s almost as bad as any of her horrific cases she helps solve. Once a girl born into a cult run by a horror show of a person, now she controls her environment in a way that goes against her upbringing-she lives in filth, garbage and is alone in her life. Now she has a friend in Harry, a forensic pathologist she works with at the bureau. They’ve gone through a lot together in the first two books and no there is no romance. This time she starts fostering a dog she falls in love with. She’s almost needy in the way she treats the dog. I love when an animal is so important to a story. Van has huge secrets in her life. One is her visions of crimes in nightmares. It’s helped her solve crimes over the years but she doesn’t advertise that fact even at work. This case concerns women that die with very unnatural smiles on their faces. She and Harry are the investigators. On her own, she is also investigating Harry’s missing sister. This was well written and plotted with plenty of suspense and mystery interspersed with Van and the dog. I really liked this one and highly recommend the whole series.
April 9, 2025
‘Two murder investigations, decades apart, threaten to expose a cold case agent’s darkest secrets in a pulse-pounding thriller by the Edgar Award–nominated author of The Taken Ones.’
I keep waiting, anticipating the same awe I felt when I read The Taken Ones. It really packed a punch for me.
And while The Laughing Dead held my attention well enough, it was a proper slow tow.
For the most part, I found Van to be miserable, borderline self-loathing and unnecessarily guilt ridden. Like she’s punishing herself and refusing any possible chance at happiness. Self-inflicted sorrow. I understood it to an extent, but it didn’t deter my discontentment, which clearly had a mind of its own. Honestly, it threw a damp towel on the whole thriller aspect of the book. “Drudge” is the word that comes to mind. Whether it’s a proper one or not, I’m uncertain. I felt perplexed by the books end.
The cult aspect was ripe and the whole chunk on bone density had me scratching my head. That coupled with the eventual crane tidbit, well…. it was just a difficult “purchase” for me. I struggled to buy it.
It hardly matters though, not from where I stand anyway. The conclusion left me hopeful for Evangeline’s future & I’m in for the long haul, especially when it comes to her & Harry. Couldn’t keep me away…
Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for this arc in exchange for review.
Pub: 7.22.25.
I keep waiting, anticipating the same awe I felt when I read The Taken Ones. It really packed a punch for me.
And while The Laughing Dead held my attention well enough, it was a proper slow tow.
For the most part, I found Van to be miserable, borderline self-loathing and unnecessarily guilt ridden. Like she’s punishing herself and refusing any possible chance at happiness. Self-inflicted sorrow. I understood it to an extent, but it didn’t deter my discontentment, which clearly had a mind of its own. Honestly, it threw a damp towel on the whole thriller aspect of the book. “Drudge” is the word that comes to mind. Whether it’s a proper one or not, I’m uncertain. I felt perplexed by the books end.
The cult aspect was ripe and the whole chunk on bone density had me scratching my head. That coupled with the eventual crane tidbit, well…. it was just a difficult “purchase” for me. I struggled to buy it.
It hardly matters though, not from where I stand anyway. The conclusion left me hopeful for Evangeline’s future & I’m in for the long haul, especially when it comes to her & Harry. Couldn’t keep me away…
Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for this arc in exchange for review.
Pub: 7.22.25.
July 25, 2025
The Laughing Dead is book 3 in the Steinbeck and Reed series by Jess Lourey. Evangeline Reid (Van) is a cold case agent and her partner is forensic scientist Harry Steinbeck. When Van and Harry are called to a murder scene they know something is off. Van is told she's there because her old police ID was found at the scene. She hasn't used that in years and it's been buried in a box in her closet ever since she moved to cold cases. How could it be at a murder scene now? Van is keeping secrets about her past from everyone, even Harry. She will do anything to keep those secrets from coming out. When she sees the dead girl, she can't believe what she's looking at. The girl has a huge grin like a clown on her face. What in the world? How could someone die like this?
As Van and her team investigate they find a link to a cold case from decades earlier. Three girls were killed and they all were found in bed with the same horrific clown grin on their face. Now Van could begin investigating that case looking for links to the current case. Will Van and Harry find anyone linked to the past case that could be the current killer? Will the witnesses from decades ago remember anything significant that could help them now? Can Van and Harry give the families of the 3 girls closure? As Van digs deeper she finds links that are all too familiar to her. Will Van be able to solve the case without giving away her secrets? Will Harry understand? The Laughing Dead is a fantastic thriller that you won't be able to put down. The ending had me in tears and I can't wait for book 4! I rate The Laughing Dead 5 stars with my highest recommendation. If you love a good thriller with twists, this book is for you! I'd like to thank NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for an advanced copy of The Laughing Dead in exchange for a fair review. #TheLaughingDead
As Van and her team investigate they find a link to a cold case from decades earlier. Three girls were killed and they all were found in bed with the same horrific clown grin on their face. Now Van could begin investigating that case looking for links to the current case. Will Van and Harry find anyone linked to the past case that could be the current killer? Will the witnesses from decades ago remember anything significant that could help them now? Can Van and Harry give the families of the 3 girls closure? As Van digs deeper she finds links that are all too familiar to her. Will Van be able to solve the case without giving away her secrets? Will Harry understand? The Laughing Dead is a fantastic thriller that you won't be able to put down. The ending had me in tears and I can't wait for book 4! I rate The Laughing Dead 5 stars with my highest recommendation. If you love a good thriller with twists, this book is for you! I'd like to thank NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for an advanced copy of The Laughing Dead in exchange for a fair review. #TheLaughingDead
August 30, 2025
The Laughing Dead by Jess Lourey. The third in her Steinbeck and Reed series. I loved this book. A solid five stars according to my rating method. A novel in which the characters, the timing and the plot all captivate me for several very enjoyable hours earns 5 stars. Some novels are superlative entries in the world of literature. Some are simply yummy, delightful, and clever. Both the superlative and the delightful deserve 5 stars in my ranking system. I don’t know if the Steinbeck and Reed series will continue but if it does I will be all over it like white on rice!
July 29, 2025
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: Reed is a more interesting narrator than Steinbeck. This was just as gluttonously weird and fun as book one, maybe more so. Three books in, and true to form, I’m now off to read the Amazon short story that birthed this whole glorious shit show.
July 22, 2025
The Laughing Dead (book 3 in the Steinbeck and Reed series) 4⭐️
Hands down my favorite in the series! I listened to books 0.5-2 in preparation to reading my ARC copy of The Laughing Dead. I HIGHLY recommend reading/listening in order to avoid spoilers and confusion.
As a recap: I liked the Amazon short story audio (book #0.5) that gave a quick glimpse in Van Reed’s world with her new partner, Harry. In Book 1 and 2 I was distracted by the narrations not fitting what I imagined in my mind. I have a feeling that may be part of the reason I enjoyed this one so much more. I connected better with the characters keeping them contained in my own mind’s eye/ear.
This one felt faster paced and did a great job connecting all the different storylines introduced in the prior books. I still felt like Van and Harry’s relationship felt too “tell-not-show”. I wish I could feel their pull towards each other. I know I’m supposed to feel like they are an amazing pairing, but realistically they interact minimally compared to the books as a whole.
Thank you NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for this ARC. This review will be shared on NetGalley and Goodreads.
Pub Date Jul 22 2025
Hands down my favorite in the series! I listened to books 0.5-2 in preparation to reading my ARC copy of The Laughing Dead. I HIGHLY recommend reading/listening in order to avoid spoilers and confusion.
As a recap: I liked the Amazon short story audio (book #0.5) that gave a quick glimpse in Van Reed’s world with her new partner, Harry. In Book 1 and 2 I was distracted by the narrations not fitting what I imagined in my mind. I have a feeling that may be part of the reason I enjoyed this one so much more. I connected better with the characters keeping them contained in my own mind’s eye/ear.
This one felt faster paced and did a great job connecting all the different storylines introduced in the prior books. I still felt like Van and Harry’s relationship felt too “tell-not-show”. I wish I could feel their pull towards each other. I know I’m supposed to feel like they are an amazing pairing, but realistically they interact minimally compared to the books as a whole.
Thank you NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for this ARC. This review will be shared on NetGalley and Goodreads.
Pub Date Jul 22 2025
July 12, 2025
I just looooove the Steinbeck and Reed series. I’m usually not a series person but this one is just too good. I absolutely loved the first two (and the short story prequel). This third one wasn’t my favorite but it was still amazing.
It felt less eerie than the others. The chapters from the girls that go missing were so creepy though. We get a conclusion to a lot of the storylines in the previous two books.
Like my Goodreads friend Karly said, even though everything is wrapped up, can we pleaaaase still keep this series going?
I will also say, if you don’t read the prequel and first two books in this series, you’ll be very confused. I don’t think it could possibly make sense as a stand alone. Just an FYI.
Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC!
It felt less eerie than the others. The chapters from the girls that go missing were so creepy though. We get a conclusion to a lot of the storylines in the previous two books.
Like my Goodreads friend Karly said, even though everything is wrapped up, can we pleaaaase still keep this series going?
I will also say, if you don’t read the prequel and first two books in this series, you’ll be very confused. I don’t think it could possibly make sense as a stand alone. Just an FYI.
Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC!
August 24, 2025
This was a very good ending to the series. I really liked how the cold cases were connected to what happened in the present. It gave the story a nice rhythm and made the whole mystery more interesting.
I also liked how we got a more nuanced picture of Van’s family here. Some questions from the first two books were finally answered. The cold case itself was strong, especially because Van was accused of murder in the present. So she had to solve the murders from the past to prove she was innocent. That made it more intense.
I liked Harry Steinbeck a lot as a character. Through the three books you really see how the past shaped both him and Van into who they are today. They are complete opposites in many ways, but that is why they work so well together. You can feel how their trust grows stronger with each book, and I enjoyed that very much.
Overall, all three books are very good. This felt like the right ending, even if I would not mind reading more about Steinbeck and Van. But the circle is closed now.
I also liked how we got a more nuanced picture of Van’s family here. Some questions from the first two books were finally answered. The cold case itself was strong, especially because Van was accused of murder in the present. So she had to solve the murders from the past to prove she was innocent. That made it more intense.
I liked Harry Steinbeck a lot as a character. Through the three books you really see how the past shaped both him and Van into who they are today. They are complete opposites in many ways, but that is why they work so well together. You can feel how their trust grows stronger with each book, and I enjoyed that very much.
Overall, all three books are very good. This felt like the right ending, even if I would not mind reading more about Steinbeck and Van. But the circle is closed now.
August 14, 2025
I am so obsessed with the Steinbeck and Reed series and can happily say that book three was AMAZING!! I'm pretty sure that it's my favorite one so far! I just loved it so much!
This book centers a bit more on Van and her investigation into the Laughing Dead murders, along with her quest to find out what happened to Steinbeck's sister, Carolyn. As with the other books, there are so many great twists and turns and suspenseful moments! I could have easily read this book in one sitting if time had allowed. I did not want to put it down!
I loved the 1980s flashbacks and most of all, I loved Owl, the adorable Boxer that Van is fostering!
I hope there are more Steinbeck and Reed books to come because I can't get enough of them!
This book centers a bit more on Van and her investigation into the Laughing Dead murders, along with her quest to find out what happened to Steinbeck's sister, Carolyn. As with the other books, there are so many great twists and turns and suspenseful moments! I could have easily read this book in one sitting if time had allowed. I did not want to put it down!
I loved the 1980s flashbacks and most of all, I loved Owl, the adorable Boxer that Van is fostering!
I hope there are more Steinbeck and Reed books to come because I can't get enough of them!
April 19, 2025
Evangeline “Van” Reed and Harry Steinbeck are back in another thriller, this time circumstance tosses Van into a cold case from 1986 involving 3 teenage girls. The news dubbed them “The laughing dead” because each was discovered with a gruesome smile on their face. Van continues to be plagued with vivid dreams, that feel too real. So when her ID shows up at a new crime scene, where the victim is not only someone she knows personally, but they also have the gruesome smile on their face- things start to get intense.
Evangeline can never fully shake the feeling that she’s being watched and followed. Her past, being raised in a cult and abused- has shaped her despite her best efforts to put it behind her.
Harry is never too far out of reach in this story and Van fears that her past and present are about to collide and change everything between them.
I enjoyed watching this story unfold. The alternating POVs would oftentimes reveal clues and then when they were matched to the case it felt exciting. I did not imagine it would turn out the way it did, looking forward to more Steinbeck and Reed in the future.
Thank you Jess Lourey and NetGalley for the advance copy and opportunity to review this book.
Evangeline can never fully shake the feeling that she’s being watched and followed. Her past, being raised in a cult and abused- has shaped her despite her best efforts to put it behind her.
Harry is never too far out of reach in this story and Van fears that her past and present are about to collide and change everything between them.
I enjoyed watching this story unfold. The alternating POVs would oftentimes reveal clues and then when they were matched to the case it felt exciting. I did not imagine it would turn out the way it did, looking forward to more Steinbeck and Reed in the future.
Thank you Jess Lourey and NetGalley for the advance copy and opportunity to review this book.
September 3, 2025
That ending was brillliant
I really love this series by.Jazz Lourey. I love that the trauma she survived as a child in that cult made her into an incredible woman. The love she shared with Owl, the dog, was so good. It was so touching. I don't wnt to give spoilers so basically this is about a person who killed three teenage girls using hemlock and this caused them to die with a sardonicus style of grin where it is distorting the face. They called them the laughing dead. All of a sudden it starts happening again and Van's id was found at the scene. She is also still searching for Harry's sister who she thinks was kidnapped by her Father. Now she is being folowed by someone in a red scarf. Is it her Father? But her Father is dead right? The book is a very.intense read and I totally loved it. The ending was just so amazing to me. It made me cry. Well worth the read.
I really love this series by.Jazz Lourey. I love that the trauma she survived as a child in that cult made her into an incredible woman. The love she shared with Owl, the dog, was so good. It was so touching. I don't wnt to give spoilers so basically this is about a person who killed three teenage girls using hemlock and this caused them to die with a sardonicus style of grin where it is distorting the face. They called them the laughing dead. All of a sudden it starts happening again and Van's id was found at the scene. She is also still searching for Harry's sister who she thinks was kidnapped by her Father. Now she is being folowed by someone in a red scarf. Is it her Father? But her Father is dead right? The book is a very.intense read and I totally loved it. The ending was just so amazing to me. It made me cry. Well worth the read.
July 24, 2025
I LOVE Van Reed and Harry Steinbeck's characters! Please never stop writing this series :)
This one has a mystery about decades old murders by a (seemingly) serial killer. This is what Jess Lourey does -- blends a recent and past mystery storyline together so well. Van's past with her upbringing plays a big part in this story. The amount of uncertainty the author can build around the main character while still keeping me rooting for her success is amazing.
This is told in multi-timeline with some multi-POV. I didn't find it hard to keep track of at all. Also, when the twists start coming they don't let up! Some are easier to figure out before they are revealed and others left me totally surprised.
This is part of a series but I didn't feel like I was missing any information (I haven't read book 2 yet) as tidbits are shared and we get enough of a backstory of the characters to know most of the important parts of their characters.
Overall it's a winner for me. I'd recommend if you love: police procedural, multi-timeline, serial killers, flawed but likeable main characters with tough history to sort through.
This one has a mystery about decades old murders by a (seemingly) serial killer. This is what Jess Lourey does -- blends a recent and past mystery storyline together so well. Van's past with her upbringing plays a big part in this story. The amount of uncertainty the author can build around the main character while still keeping me rooting for her success is amazing.
This is told in multi-timeline with some multi-POV. I didn't find it hard to keep track of at all. Also, when the twists start coming they don't let up! Some are easier to figure out before they are revealed and others left me totally surprised.
This is part of a series but I didn't feel like I was missing any information (I haven't read book 2 yet) as tidbits are shared and we get enough of a backstory of the characters to know most of the important parts of their characters.
Overall it's a winner for me. I'd recommend if you love: police procedural, multi-timeline, serial killers, flawed but likeable main characters with tough history to sort through.
June 29, 2025
THE LAUGHING DEAD is a tense, pulse-pounding mystery thriller. I didn’t realize that it was book three in the Steinbeck and Reed series. It was really easy to follow and I felt like it worked great as a stand-alone. I thought agent Van Reed was a unique character, so now I plan to go back and read the first two books. The dual timelines were blended perfectly and kept me glued to story. I have always been interested in cold cases and although I know this is a work of fiction, it made me feel like this was real. Overall, I found this to be a really great book and I would recommend it to those who like character-driven novels!
Many thanks to Thomas & Mercer and Brilliance Audio for my #gifted copies.
This review will be shared to my Instagram account (@coffee.break.book.reviews) closer to the publication date.
Many thanks to Thomas & Mercer and Brilliance Audio for my #gifted copies.
This review will be shared to my Instagram account (@coffee.break.book.reviews) closer to the publication date.
July 23, 2025
Wow. What. A. Wild. Ride.
I have a feeling this series is done and I’m sad. I have come to be attached to these imperfect characters. I will say how the author ties it all together was absolutely brilliant. And while I want more of these characters, this was truly a great ending. I’ll say it again. WOW.
I have a feeling this series is done and I’m sad. I have come to be attached to these imperfect characters. I will say how the author ties it all together was absolutely brilliant. And while I want more of these characters, this was truly a great ending. I’ll say it again. WOW.
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