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Guess Again
On the 10th anniversary of a teenage girl’s disappearance, her cold case breaks open in dangerous ways…and threatens to tear apart her small Wisconsin town all over again in the masterfully twisty new psychological suspense novel from the internationally bestselling author of Twenty Years Later.
For fans of Riley Sager, Anna Downes, Alex Finlay, Stacy Willingham, and Karin Slaughter.
Ten years ago, 17-year-old high school volleyball star Callie Jones vanished from her quiet Wisconsin lake community. A highly publicized search followed but her body was never found. The case went cold, but the echoes still linger.
Ethan Hall, a former renegade detective turned ER doctor, left law enforcement to escape the horrors of the kid crime division. But on the tenth anniversary of Callie’s disappearance, his former partner, Pete Kramer, makes a desperate request. Pete is the veteran detective who originally investigated the case. Now he’s dying, and to ease his conscience and get closure for the Jones family, he needs Ethan to return to the haunting work he left behind—and solve what happened to Callie, once and for all.
Word soon spreads and everyone in the small town of Cherryview feels a rush of hope that answers will finally be found. Amid a sweltering heatwave, Ethan’s investigation gains momentum, but reexamining old evidence won’t be enough. He needs a new way into the case, no matter how dangerous or unconventional. And it comes from the least likely of sources—an inmate in a maximum-security prison.
Soon Ethan’s methods draw him deeper into a twisted psychological game. Because there is much more to the nightmare of Callie’s disappearance than he imagined, including a connection with his own dark past . . . and secrets that are still worth killing for.
For fans of Riley Sager, Anna Downes, Alex Finlay, Stacy Willingham, and Karin Slaughter.
Ten years ago, 17-year-old high school volleyball star Callie Jones vanished from her quiet Wisconsin lake community. A highly publicized search followed but her body was never found. The case went cold, but the echoes still linger.
Ethan Hall, a former renegade detective turned ER doctor, left law enforcement to escape the horrors of the kid crime division. But on the tenth anniversary of Callie’s disappearance, his former partner, Pete Kramer, makes a desperate request. Pete is the veteran detective who originally investigated the case. Now he’s dying, and to ease his conscience and get closure for the Jones family, he needs Ethan to return to the haunting work he left behind—and solve what happened to Callie, once and for all.
Word soon spreads and everyone in the small town of Cherryview feels a rush of hope that answers will finally be found. Amid a sweltering heatwave, Ethan’s investigation gains momentum, but reexamining old evidence won’t be enough. He needs a new way into the case, no matter how dangerous or unconventional. And it comes from the least likely of sources—an inmate in a maximum-security prison.
Soon Ethan’s methods draw him deeper into a twisted psychological game. Because there is much more to the nightmare of Callie’s disappearance than he imagined, including a connection with his own dark past . . . and secrets that are still worth killing for.
343 pages, Hardcover
First published July 29, 2025
1503 people are currently reading
50071 people want to read
About the author
Charlie Donlea
27 books11k followersCharlie Donlea is the USA TODAY, IndieBound, and #1 Internationally bestselling author of critically acclaimed, propulsive thrillers including THE GIRL WHO WAS TAKEN, DON'T BELIEVE IT, TWENTY YEARS LATER, and THOSE EMPTY EYES. His ninth thriller, GUESS AGAIN, is out now.
Published in 40 countries and translated into twenty-five languages, his books have sold nearly 3 million copies in the U.S. alone.
He spends a part of each year fishing with his father in the far reaches of Canada, where the roads end and lakes are accessible only by floatplane. These majestic trips to “God’s Country” inspired the settings for his novels Summit Lake and GUESS AGAIN, coming in August 2025.
He resides in Chicago with his wife and two children.
Published in 40 countries and translated into twenty-five languages, his books have sold nearly 3 million copies in the U.S. alone.
He spends a part of each year fishing with his father in the far reaches of Canada, where the roads end and lakes are accessible only by floatplane. These majestic trips to “God’s Country” inspired the settings for his novels Summit Lake and GUESS AGAIN, coming in August 2025.
He resides in Chicago with his wife and two children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,888 reviews
September 3, 2025
WHOA okay I’m gonna need to catch my breath after that one 🤯
July 29, 2025
3.75 rounded ⬆️
And, by the way, I think the book blurb gives away too much!
A COLD CASE. A NEW SERIES?
Opening Sentence: When he unclasped the button on her jeans, she knew she would lose her virginity that night.
How’s that for an opening line to hook you?
Ten years ago, 17-year-old high school volleyball star Callie Jones vanished from her quiet Wisconsin lake community, and to this day, her body has not been found.
Now, Ethan Hall’s former partner, Pete Kramer, has asked him to come out of retirement to help him solve this Cold Case, before Lou Gehrig’s disease claims his life. Ethan is now an ER Doctor, having decided that the job of investigating crimes against kids for Wisconsin’s Division of Criminal Investigation was taking too much of a toll on him, emotionally, despite his 100% solve rate.
He reluctantly agrees to re-examine the evidence, for his friend, having no idea that there will end up being a personal link to the crime which took his own father’s life.
Or that reopening the case could still bring danger to himself and to those he cares about.
I LIKED but didn’t LOVE this latest offering from Charlie Donlea, and I think that is because of the style the book is written in. The story jumps around A LOT, with short chapters that always list the DATE and the Wisconsin location that the chapter takes place in, moving from PAST to PRESENT and LOCATION TO LOCATION at will. While the dates are important, I feel like the locations bogged down the pace and were not a necessary detail.
It just felt TOO BUSY.
By the second half, I got into the swing of things, and the pace picked up. It was interesting to discover the role that each of the characters would play, and I enjoyed all of the shocking twists, EXCEPT FOR ONE.
It would appear from the denouement, that Ethan Hall, may have to put his career in medicine on hold-as a sequel just MIGHT be in the works. While, I did find this story entertaining enough to read a second book with these characters, should the author choose to go there, I prefer stand-alone books to series, so I am okay if the story ends here as well.
NOW AVAILABLE
Thank You to Kensington Publishing for the gifted copy provided through NetGalley. As always, these are my candid thoughts!
And, by the way, I think the book blurb gives away too much!
A COLD CASE. A NEW SERIES?
Opening Sentence: When he unclasped the button on her jeans, she knew she would lose her virginity that night.
How’s that for an opening line to hook you?
Ten years ago, 17-year-old high school volleyball star Callie Jones vanished from her quiet Wisconsin lake community, and to this day, her body has not been found.
Now, Ethan Hall’s former partner, Pete Kramer, has asked him to come out of retirement to help him solve this Cold Case, before Lou Gehrig’s disease claims his life. Ethan is now an ER Doctor, having decided that the job of investigating crimes against kids for Wisconsin’s Division of Criminal Investigation was taking too much of a toll on him, emotionally, despite his 100% solve rate.
He reluctantly agrees to re-examine the evidence, for his friend, having no idea that there will end up being a personal link to the crime which took his own father’s life.
Or that reopening the case could still bring danger to himself and to those he cares about.
I LIKED but didn’t LOVE this latest offering from Charlie Donlea, and I think that is because of the style the book is written in. The story jumps around A LOT, with short chapters that always list the DATE and the Wisconsin location that the chapter takes place in, moving from PAST to PRESENT and LOCATION TO LOCATION at will. While the dates are important, I feel like the locations bogged down the pace and were not a necessary detail.
It just felt TOO BUSY.
By the second half, I got into the swing of things, and the pace picked up. It was interesting to discover the role that each of the characters would play, and I enjoyed all of the shocking twists, EXCEPT FOR ONE.
It would appear from the denouement, that Ethan Hall, may have to put his career in medicine on hold-as a sequel just MIGHT be in the works. While, I did find this story entertaining enough to read a second book with these characters, should the author choose to go there, I prefer stand-alone books to series, so I am okay if the story ends here as well.
NOW AVAILABLE
Thank You to Kensington Publishing for the gifted copy provided through NetGalley. As always, these are my candid thoughts!
September 4, 2025
Holy Shooty Balls!!! Twisty, compulsively readable, action-packed, and impossible to put down!
Guess Again by Charlie Donlea was the perfect title for this book because it captured my reading experience exactly. I kept guessing and second-guessing everything right up until the very end. This is the kind of mystery thriller I love, filled with secrets, suspense, action, and plenty of twists that had me hooked from start to finish.
Ethan’s character really stood out to me and I hope we see more of him in the future. His mix of determination and vulnerability made him so engaging to follow as he dug into the cold case of Callie Jones. The story also weaves in the chilling presence of serial killer Francis, adding another layer of tension that kept me glued to the page. There were quite a few characters to keep track of but it all came together smoothly and I never felt lost.
The small-town setting was vividly drawn and carried just the right amount of unease, making the atmosphere feel heavy with secrets. Donlea builds tension so well, layering the mystery and delivering perfectly timed twists that kept me flipping the pages as quickly as I could.
The ending? Unexpected and shocking in the best possible way. It caught me completely off guard but worked so well for the story, bringing everything together in a thrilling and satisfying conclusion. Guess Again was such a wild and entertaining ride from beginning to end and I loved every moment of it.
Special thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with a copy.
A wonderful Witches Words read that I had the pleasure of buddy reading with Brenda, Debra, Mary Beth, and Carolyn. Be sure to check out their reviews!
Guess Again by Charlie Donlea was the perfect title for this book because it captured my reading experience exactly. I kept guessing and second-guessing everything right up until the very end. This is the kind of mystery thriller I love, filled with secrets, suspense, action, and plenty of twists that had me hooked from start to finish.
Ethan’s character really stood out to me and I hope we see more of him in the future. His mix of determination and vulnerability made him so engaging to follow as he dug into the cold case of Callie Jones. The story also weaves in the chilling presence of serial killer Francis, adding another layer of tension that kept me glued to the page. There were quite a few characters to keep track of but it all came together smoothly and I never felt lost.
The small-town setting was vividly drawn and carried just the right amount of unease, making the atmosphere feel heavy with secrets. Donlea builds tension so well, layering the mystery and delivering perfectly timed twists that kept me flipping the pages as quickly as I could.
The ending? Unexpected and shocking in the best possible way. It caught me completely off guard but worked so well for the story, bringing everything together in a thrilling and satisfying conclusion. Guess Again was such a wild and entertaining ride from beginning to end and I loved every moment of it.
Special thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with a copy.
A wonderful Witches Words read that I had the pleasure of buddy reading with Brenda, Debra, Mary Beth, and Carolyn. Be sure to check out their reviews!
September 3, 2025
Holy cow! Stating that this one’s a banger would be an understatement of the highest order. Intensely fast-paced, deliciously dark, and way beyond twisty, Guess Again was a hard-hitting crime thriller that barely let me up for air. You see, not only was the storyline just as complex as it was well-plotted, but the characters all delivered in spades. From the investigator-turned-ER doc, Ethan, to his archenemy, Francis, it was a brilliant game of cat-and-mouse that managed to get under my skin. Filled with deep, dark foreboding that led to an explosive climax complete with perfectly drawn action, it was everything I could want and more thanks to Donlea’s undeniable skill. Even better, however? This pulse-pounding read was followed up with a *chef’s kiss* conclusion that I absolutely loved.
Starting off with a missing persons cold case and a creepy serial killer subplot, the two quickly met in the middle to reveal a storyline that was original in the extreme. Twisting and turning as new facts came into view, it wasn’t just once or twice that a revelation took me out at the knees. After all, there was even a “WTF?!” twist right there at the end that had me clapping my hand over my mouth as a smiled with glee. Now I’m just crossing my fingers and toes that the ending means there’s more in store for Maddie and Ethan. After all, this duo needs more page time in my humble opinion. The perfect pairing, their love story on top of their smart, brave personas quickly and wholly immersed me in this unputdownable tale. So here’s me, Mr. Donlea, begging for a sequel—although a series would be even better.
All said and done, with short, cliffhanger chapters, chess-like machinations, and a pace that escalated with utter precision, it was dead-on perfection from beginning to end. The one thing that has always impressed me the most when reading a Donlea novel, though, are the multiple plot lines that never fail to tie together just so by the end. Using them to keep your eye off the prize, the mindf***ery of his newest novel is sure to bewitch each and every reader. After all, I’m one of those thriller lovers that seems to guess every twist, but this novel easily beat me at my own game. Unpredictable, shocking, and delightfully doubt-inducing, this one is perfect for fans of both Harlan Coben and Riley Sager, and is sure to zap you with plenty of adrenaline all the way from beginning to end. Rating of 5+ stars.
SYNOPSIS:
Ten years ago, 17-year-old high school volleyball star Callie Jones vanished from her quiet Wisconsin lake community. A highly publicized search followed but her body was never found. The case went cold, but the echoes still linger.
Ethan Hall, a former renegade detective turned ER doctor, left law enforcement to escape the horrors of the kid crime division. But on the tenth anniversary of Callie’s disappearance, his former partner, Pete Kramer, makes a desperate request. Pete is the veteran detective who originally investigated the case. Now he’s dying, and to ease his conscience and get closure for the Jones family, he needs Ethan to return to the haunting work he left behind—and solve what happened to Callie, once and for all.
Word soon spreads and everyone in the small town of Cherryview feels a rush of hope that answers will finally be found. Amid a sweltering heatwave, Ethan’s investigation gains momentum, but reexamining old evidence won’t be enough. He needs a new way into the case, no matter how dangerous or unconventional. And it comes from the least likely of sources—an inmate in a maximum-security prison.
Soon Ethan’s methods draw him deeper into a twisted psychological game. Because there is much more to the nightmare of Callie’s disappearance than he imagined, including a connection with his own dark past…and secrets that are still worth killing for.
Thank you to Charlie Donlea and Kensington Books for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: July 29, 2025
Scroll down for my potentially plot spoiling trigger list.
Content warning: ALS, kidnapping, forced captivity, violence, threatening letters, student-teacher relationship, knife and gun violence, teenage pregnancy
Starting off with a missing persons cold case and a creepy serial killer subplot, the two quickly met in the middle to reveal a storyline that was original in the extreme. Twisting and turning as new facts came into view, it wasn’t just once or twice that a revelation took me out at the knees. After all, there was even a “WTF?!” twist right there at the end that had me clapping my hand over my mouth as a smiled with glee. Now I’m just crossing my fingers and toes that the ending means there’s more in store for Maddie and Ethan. After all, this duo needs more page time in my humble opinion. The perfect pairing, their love story on top of their smart, brave personas quickly and wholly immersed me in this unputdownable tale. So here’s me, Mr. Donlea, begging for a sequel—although a series would be even better.
All said and done, with short, cliffhanger chapters, chess-like machinations, and a pace that escalated with utter precision, it was dead-on perfection from beginning to end. The one thing that has always impressed me the most when reading a Donlea novel, though, are the multiple plot lines that never fail to tie together just so by the end. Using them to keep your eye off the prize, the mindf***ery of his newest novel is sure to bewitch each and every reader. After all, I’m one of those thriller lovers that seems to guess every twist, but this novel easily beat me at my own game. Unpredictable, shocking, and delightfully doubt-inducing, this one is perfect for fans of both Harlan Coben and Riley Sager, and is sure to zap you with plenty of adrenaline all the way from beginning to end. Rating of 5+ stars.
SYNOPSIS:
Ten years ago, 17-year-old high school volleyball star Callie Jones vanished from her quiet Wisconsin lake community. A highly publicized search followed but her body was never found. The case went cold, but the echoes still linger.
Ethan Hall, a former renegade detective turned ER doctor, left law enforcement to escape the horrors of the kid crime division. But on the tenth anniversary of Callie’s disappearance, his former partner, Pete Kramer, makes a desperate request. Pete is the veteran detective who originally investigated the case. Now he’s dying, and to ease his conscience and get closure for the Jones family, he needs Ethan to return to the haunting work he left behind—and solve what happened to Callie, once and for all.
Word soon spreads and everyone in the small town of Cherryview feels a rush of hope that answers will finally be found. Amid a sweltering heatwave, Ethan’s investigation gains momentum, but reexamining old evidence won’t be enough. He needs a new way into the case, no matter how dangerous or unconventional. And it comes from the least likely of sources—an inmate in a maximum-security prison.
Soon Ethan’s methods draw him deeper into a twisted psychological game. Because there is much more to the nightmare of Callie’s disappearance than he imagined, including a connection with his own dark past…and secrets that are still worth killing for.
Thank you to Charlie Donlea and Kensington Books for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: July 29, 2025
Scroll down for my potentially plot spoiling trigger list.
Content warning: ALS, kidnapping, forced captivity, violence, threatening letters, student-teacher relationship, knife and gun violence, teenage pregnancy
September 9, 2025
There is something to be said about fast-paced, page-turning, can hardly catch my breath, engrossing thrillers. Because authors seem to know how to provide readers with short chapters, and intense, break-neck speed, moving and compelling mystery reading experiences.
And, for the most part, I am truly a fan of this author. And, yes, this book does provide all of the above.
And, with this story, he definitely had me at the first page. But…
Oh, and I do hate those buts. There were those moments that the story devolved into something that just felt more contrived, than believable.
But I still continued to read. A but that works both ways, I guess.
The premise of the story being that a former detective, now emergency room doctor, was now being requested to consult on a cold case. Which sounded intriguing. And, for me, I was still invested in finding out how this cold case could possibly be solved.
But because of the many plot twists, I felt distracted and somewhat overwhelmed as a reader. The other side of the but, again.
And, even if some parts were resolved in a very dark, edgy, twisted way, the author also chose to leave the story in a way I don’t appreciate…with a cliffhanger. I apologize if this is giving away a spoiler. But this is one of my greatest pet peeves in any story. I prefer a beginning, a middle, and an ending with books that I read. Period.
For some a cliffhanger means, that the author is opening this up to a continuing series. Because there is some unfinished business. And, if that excites others to wanting to continue on, then this may be a great first in the series for others to pursue.
For me. Nope. I’m done. And, disappointed.
But please read other reviews. I am most likely an outlier, who just got too disappointed by the overabundance of twists and being left hanging.
And, for the most part, I am truly a fan of this author. And, yes, this book does provide all of the above.
And, with this story, he definitely had me at the first page. But…
Oh, and I do hate those buts. There were those moments that the story devolved into something that just felt more contrived, than believable.
But I still continued to read. A but that works both ways, I guess.
The premise of the story being that a former detective, now emergency room doctor, was now being requested to consult on a cold case. Which sounded intriguing. And, for me, I was still invested in finding out how this cold case could possibly be solved.
But because of the many plot twists, I felt distracted and somewhat overwhelmed as a reader. The other side of the but, again.
And, even if some parts were resolved in a very dark, edgy, twisted way, the author also chose to leave the story in a way I don’t appreciate…with a cliffhanger. I apologize if this is giving away a spoiler. But this is one of my greatest pet peeves in any story. I prefer a beginning, a middle, and an ending with books that I read. Period.
For some a cliffhanger means, that the author is opening this up to a continuing series. Because there is some unfinished business. And, if that excites others to wanting to continue on, then this may be a great first in the series for others to pursue.
For me. Nope. I’m done. And, disappointed.
But please read other reviews. I am most likely an outlier, who just got too disappointed by the overabundance of twists and being left hanging.
April 9, 2025
Think you don’t need another thriller author on your must-read list?
Guess Again. If you haven’t cracked open a Charlie Donlea novel yet, now’s the time. Seriously.
Think I stumbled onto Donlea by chance?
Guess Again. I have been hooked since his debut—back when the Traveling Sisters were just kicking off—and he’s been on our auto-read list ever since.
Think we occasionally recommend his books?
Guess Again. We’ve basically made it a full-time hobby. At this point, our reputations might actually depend on it.
Think we wait patiently for his new releases?
Guess Again. Now the Witches Words group, a new Donlea book means everything else gets shoved aside. TBR? Reshuffled. Snacks? Secured. Eyes? Glued to the page.
Think I am done gushing?
Oh Friends—Guess. Again.
Hot diggity dang, Guess Again is GOOD. Twisty, clever, just the right amount of darkness, and packed with that signature Donlea punch that makes you flip pages like your fingers are on fire.
Oh, you think you can keep track of all the characters without needing a flowchart?
Guess Again. This one moves fast, and Donlea loves keeping you on your toes—throwing so many characters and twists your way, you'll be dizzy just trying to keep up. Don't even think about taking a break; you'll miss something vital.
Think you know where it’s going because it feels straight forward and predicable
Cute but Guess Again
Think you can predict a Donlea ending?
LOL—Guess. Again.
So, if you think you can figure out that jaw-dropping final reveal good luck with that because Donlea just might flip your predictions on their head—and probably laughed while doing it.
A Witches Word group read with Norma, Debra, Carolyn and Mary Beth.
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley
Guess Again. If you haven’t cracked open a Charlie Donlea novel yet, now’s the time. Seriously.
Think I stumbled onto Donlea by chance?
Guess Again. I have been hooked since his debut—back when the Traveling Sisters were just kicking off—and he’s been on our auto-read list ever since.
Think we occasionally recommend his books?
Guess Again. We’ve basically made it a full-time hobby. At this point, our reputations might actually depend on it.
Think we wait patiently for his new releases?
Guess Again. Now the Witches Words group, a new Donlea book means everything else gets shoved aside. TBR? Reshuffled. Snacks? Secured. Eyes? Glued to the page.
Think I am done gushing?
Oh Friends—Guess. Again.
Hot diggity dang, Guess Again is GOOD. Twisty, clever, just the right amount of darkness, and packed with that signature Donlea punch that makes you flip pages like your fingers are on fire.
Oh, you think you can keep track of all the characters without needing a flowchart?
Guess Again. This one moves fast, and Donlea loves keeping you on your toes—throwing so many characters and twists your way, you'll be dizzy just trying to keep up. Don't even think about taking a break; you'll miss something vital.
Think you know where it’s going because it feels straight forward and predicable
Cute but Guess Again
Think you can predict a Donlea ending?
LOL—Guess. Again.
So, if you think you can figure out that jaw-dropping final reveal good luck with that because Donlea just might flip your predictions on their head—and probably laughed while doing it.
A Witches Word group read with Norma, Debra, Carolyn and Mary Beth.
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley
July 30, 2025
4.5 rounded up for the audio!
Wow. It's books like this one that remind me why thrillers/mysteries are my favorite genre.
This is gonna be so hard to review without spoilers but here it goes😅
This is my second Charlie Donlea book and I'm sure it will not be my last. It's a personal preference for me to rarely ever or even never read the blurb of a thriller or mystery as I believe it makes the book much more enjoyable and I am so glad I went into this book completely blind!
All you really need to know is that this is about a serial killer, a missing girl and a detective turned doctor and how all these stories collide and merge into one unputdownable book! The prologue had me with just one word. ONE WORD!
Everything about this book is what I want in a mystery/thriller; it's twisty but the twists make sense, it's addicting, it's entertaining and it keeps you guessing till the absolute last second. The pacing was great and I was legitimately not bored one single second.. I mean I finished this whole audiobook in less than a day and that should tell you something😅 I was only able to guess one twist but it wasn't even that big of a revelation in the grand scheme of things😅
I really can't go into anymore details, especially about the ending, because it would be too spoilery😭 I'm watching you Charlie and there better be some news about a certain something coming soon 👀
Definitely one of my favorite reads this year!
________________________________________________________
Pre-read
THE WAY MY JAW DROPPED AT THAT PROLOGUE?????? You got me Charlie, I'm hooked 🪝
Wow. It's books like this one that remind me why thrillers/mysteries are my favorite genre.
This is gonna be so hard to review without spoilers but here it goes😅
This is my second Charlie Donlea book and I'm sure it will not be my last. It's a personal preference for me to rarely ever or even never read the blurb of a thriller or mystery as I believe it makes the book much more enjoyable and I am so glad I went into this book completely blind!
All you really need to know is that this is about a serial killer, a missing girl and a detective turned doctor and how all these stories collide and merge into one unputdownable book! The prologue had me with just one word. ONE WORD!
Everything about this book is what I want in a mystery/thriller; it's twisty but the twists make sense, it's addicting, it's entertaining and it keeps you guessing till the absolute last second. The pacing was great and I was legitimately not bored one single second.. I mean I finished this whole audiobook in less than a day and that should tell you something😅 I was only able to guess one twist but it wasn't even that big of a revelation in the grand scheme of things😅
I really can't go into anymore details, especially about the ending, because it would be too spoilery😭 I'm watching you Charlie and there better be some news about a certain something coming soon 👀
Definitely one of my favorite reads this year!
________________________________________________________
Pre-read
THE WAY MY JAW DROPPED AT THAT PROLOGUE?????? You got me Charlie, I'm hooked 🪝
June 9, 2025
This started off with a bang and ended up being action packed. However, I am being somewhat generous giving it 4 stars, it was more 3.5 rounded up.
While there was a lot of action and thrilling moments, I felt there was almost too many characters and too much stuff going on. It didn’t feel like a well-paced, well connected thriller to me. It might be a ‘me problem’ which is why I have rounded up.
I really enjoyed the ending though when everything comes together. There were parts I definitely did not guess would ever be true when it first started. I think there will most likely be a sequel as there is definitely some unfinished business with this one.
Thank you to netgalley for this free advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
While there was a lot of action and thrilling moments, I felt there was almost too many characters and too much stuff going on. It didn’t feel like a well-paced, well connected thriller to me. It might be a ‘me problem’ which is why I have rounded up.
I really enjoyed the ending though when everything comes together. There were parts I definitely did not guess would ever be true when it first started. I think there will most likely be a sequel as there is definitely some unfinished business with this one.
Thank you to netgalley for this free advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 10, 2025
This book wins my favorite for mystery-thriller 2025. The writing is superb, the pace just right, and the characters top the charts.
July 31, 2025
You can always rely on Charlie Donlea for a binge-worthy twist-filled thriller and Guess Again delivered on everything! What a fantastic read! I smashed this out in a day and it will be a favourite book for 2025.
I love how you never really know what is happening in a Donlea book, how all the points of view and threads are connected. But when they do 🤯🤯 wow! Just brilliant!! My mind was blown with this ending and I see potential there for a follow-up.
Ethan was such an interesting character. Anyone who can retrain and become a doctor has be to be commended. He was a brilliant investigator, I loved his attention to all the tiny details and putting all the pieces together. All while having to deal with his father’s killer! I would love to see more from him in future books.
This book just shows why Charlie Donlea is a favourite author for me. It is dark, it is smart, it is hard to stop reading. I was kinda sad when it was over. Do yourself a favour and get a copy of this book anyway you can.
Thank you so so much to Kensington Publishing for my early copy of this book to read. An absolute pleasure. Publishes on July 29th.
I love how you never really know what is happening in a Donlea book, how all the points of view and threads are connected. But when they do 🤯🤯 wow! Just brilliant!! My mind was blown with this ending and I see potential there for a follow-up.
Ethan was such an interesting character. Anyone who can retrain and become a doctor has be to be commended. He was a brilliant investigator, I loved his attention to all the tiny details and putting all the pieces together. All while having to deal with his father’s killer! I would love to see more from him in future books.
This book just shows why Charlie Donlea is a favourite author for me. It is dark, it is smart, it is hard to stop reading. I was kinda sad when it was over. Do yourself a favour and get a copy of this book anyway you can.
Thank you so so much to Kensington Publishing for my early copy of this book to read. An absolute pleasure. Publishes on July 29th.
August 1, 2025
4.5⭐️ On the tenth anniversary of Callie Jones’ disappearance, the former lead detective on the case seeks the help of his former partner, retired special agent (and current emergency room physician), Ethan Hall, to finally put the case to rest for the sake of her father, now the state senator.
I must admit, I was both completely shocked and immediately intrigued by the opening chapter, followed by a seemingly unrelated second chapter in which we meet our main character, Ethan on call in the emergency department. Right from the go, I needed to know what on earth had happened to Callie, where that first chapter fit in, and what Ethan had to do with anything.
What I loved most about this story, in addition to the true crime/cold case storyline which is obviously very engaging, was the fascinating cast of characters at its core. Ethan is a terrific MC, led in equal measures by both his empathy and drive. He felt so lifelike at times, that when he became shell-shocked, I felt his anguish.
His girlfriend, Maddie, was the perfect counterbalance, both romantically and quasi-professionally, though ultimately, I’d have loved to get even more of her backstory and psychology post-trauma, which is probably just greedy on my part (I have a sneaking suspicion we may get more on this front).
The plot line was fast-paced and terrific fun (in the gritty, brutal sense of the word) and would make a fantastic screen adaptation. It felt a bit like a cat and mouse game times two as multiple people were pulling the puppet strings, but with only one, ultimate master puppeteer— the perfect villain to our hero.
As is always the case with Charlie Donlea’s books, we are slowly walked into a cast of about a zillion characters with so many loose strings (back to that puppet master), I get to the point in every book where I wish I had an unhinged chart on the wall, complete with pushpins and (more) string, as almost always feel like I have no idea what the heck is happening. And that’s usually at the point right before Donlea begins to weave it all back together for us.
Without spoiling anything, I will say this ends with a big, hella-fun twist and a cliffhanger, leading us right into what I’m sure is a planned sequel. While my favorite Donlea book remains Summit Lake (as in, I still think about it weekly), this may in fact be his next best book. If audio is your thing, it is absolutely amazing alongside the print for a full-on immersive experience. Vivienne Leheny, who has narrated quite a few of his books, does an impeccable job bringing this story to life.
Read if you like:
▪️domestic suspense
▪️true crime vibes
▪️cold case mysteries
▪️serial killers
▪️dual timelines
▪️cliffhangers
▪️jaw-dropping twists
Check out my Bookstagram post here ♥
Thank you Kensington Publishing and Recorded Books for the advanced copies.
I must admit, I was both completely shocked and immediately intrigued by the opening chapter, followed by a seemingly unrelated second chapter in which we meet our main character, Ethan on call in the emergency department. Right from the go, I needed to know what on earth had happened to Callie, where that first chapter fit in, and what Ethan had to do with anything.
What I loved most about this story, in addition to the true crime/cold case storyline which is obviously very engaging, was the fascinating cast of characters at its core. Ethan is a terrific MC, led in equal measures by both his empathy and drive. He felt so lifelike at times, that when he became shell-shocked, I felt his anguish.
His girlfriend, Maddie, was the perfect counterbalance, both romantically and quasi-professionally, though ultimately, I’d have loved to get even more of her backstory and psychology post-trauma, which is probably just greedy on my part (I have a sneaking suspicion we may get more on this front).
The plot line was fast-paced and terrific fun (in the gritty, brutal sense of the word) and would make a fantastic screen adaptation. It felt a bit like a cat and mouse game times two as multiple people were pulling the puppet strings, but with only one, ultimate master puppeteer— the perfect villain to our hero.
As is always the case with Charlie Donlea’s books, we are slowly walked into a cast of about a zillion characters with so many loose strings (back to that puppet master), I get to the point in every book where I wish I had an unhinged chart on the wall, complete with pushpins and (more) string, as almost always feel like I have no idea what the heck is happening. And that’s usually at the point right before Donlea begins to weave it all back together for us.
Without spoiling anything, I will say this ends with a big, hella-fun twist and a cliffhanger, leading us right into what I’m sure is a planned sequel. While my favorite Donlea book remains Summit Lake (as in, I still think about it weekly), this may in fact be his next best book. If audio is your thing, it is absolutely amazing alongside the print for a full-on immersive experience. Vivienne Leheny, who has narrated quite a few of his books, does an impeccable job bringing this story to life.
Read if you like:
▪️domestic suspense
▪️true crime vibes
▪️cold case mysteries
▪️serial killers
▪️dual timelines
▪️cliffhangers
▪️jaw-dropping twists
Check out my Bookstagram post here ♥
Thank you Kensington Publishing and Recorded Books for the advanced copies.
April 30, 2025
When I was chosen to be an early reader for Charlie Donlea’s 2025 release, I nearly died!!! Massive thanks of gratitude to Kensington Books for sending me an early copy!!! If you’ve read Donlea before, you already know he has some tricks up his sleeve!
A convicted killer’s sinister offer from behind bars breaks open a missing girl’s cold case in dangerous ways. The governor is her father and ten years later he still wants answers to her disappearance.
The story involves a whole cast of characters from dual timelines…. Before the girl goes missing and now. That is all you need to know other than some other mysteries are weaved into the plot. The less you know, the better trust me!!!
Once the story took off, I couldn’t let go! Highly suspenseful and definitely recommend!
Pub Date- 7/29/25
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A convicted killer’s sinister offer from behind bars breaks open a missing girl’s cold case in dangerous ways. The governor is her father and ten years later he still wants answers to her disappearance.
The story involves a whole cast of characters from dual timelines…. Before the girl goes missing and now. That is all you need to know other than some other mysteries are weaved into the plot. The less you know, the better trust me!!!
Once the story took off, I couldn’t let go! Highly suspenseful and definitely recommend!
Pub Date- 7/29/25
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
May 11, 2025
Best one yet! That ending 🤯
June 7, 2025
Wow, what a page turner!! And, boy, does this one have a heck of a twist at the end! The characters are likable and well developed. There are lots of twists and turns that made this book a mental workout. I think my mouth may have been hanging open by the end.
Thank you to Net Galley and Kensington Publishing for giving me this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to Net Galley and Kensington Publishing for giving me this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
August 7, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
This author is slowly becoming one of those "read everything they write, no questions asked" authors for me....and this book sealed it.
This twisty, atmospheric psychological suspense had me hooked from the first page. Set in a small, sticky Wisconsin town during a heatwave, the story unravels the decade-old mystery of missing teen Callie Jones—and pulls everyone back into the darkness they thought they had escaped.
A chilling, emotionally layered mystery that’s as much about trauma and guilt as it is about solving a crime. If you love smart psychological thrillers that keep you second-guessing everyone, this one’s for you.
🎶"Bury a Friend" – Billie Eilish
🎶"Arsonist's Lullabye" – Hozier
This author is slowly becoming one of those "read everything they write, no questions asked" authors for me....and this book sealed it.
This twisty, atmospheric psychological suspense had me hooked from the first page. Set in a small, sticky Wisconsin town during a heatwave, the story unravels the decade-old mystery of missing teen Callie Jones—and pulls everyone back into the darkness they thought they had escaped.
A chilling, emotionally layered mystery that’s as much about trauma and guilt as it is about solving a crime. If you love smart psychological thrillers that keep you second-guessing everyone, this one’s for you.
🎶"Bury a Friend" – Billie Eilish
🎶"Arsonist's Lullabye" – Hozier
May 13, 2025
What happened to Callie Jones? Missing for ten years, no lead to her disappearance has ever been found.
At the request of the Mayor, former superstar detective turned ER doctor Ethan Hall is tasked with the request of taking on the cold case. A pro at problem solving and thinking outside the box, Ethan quickly begins unburying old secrets. Little does he know how dangerous that is for others, and for himself.
Another Winner from Charlie Donlea, who continues to impress.
Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for the arc.
At the request of the Mayor, former superstar detective turned ER doctor Ethan Hall is tasked with the request of taking on the cold case. A pro at problem solving and thinking outside the box, Ethan quickly begins unburying old secrets. Little does he know how dangerous that is for others, and for himself.
Another Winner from Charlie Donlea, who continues to impress.
Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for the arc.
August 3, 2025
If I make typos it’s because I’m bleary eyed after staying up until the early morning finishing this book! I just couldn’t stop listening. Ethan Hall has witnessed a lot of violence in his life: his father was a police officer who was brutally murdered, and then Ethan had a successful career investigating the worst of crimes. He decided to escape this world, goes to med school, and is currently an ER doctor.
His former partner comes to him asking for help. He is dying and has one case that has stuck in his mind for ten years. Callie Jones was a high school girl living on a Wisconsin lake… she leaves a gathering of friends in her boat and is never seen again. The boat is found and there’s evidence that she may have been harmed or taken, but the case has turned cold.
There aren’t many clues, but Ethan begins his search. Soon evidence is presented, but it’s coming from a disturbing source who has ties to Ethan. When another young woman is discovered to be missing, Ethan learns they may be connected, and is concerned that the violence is escalating.
Charlie Donlea knows how to write a suspenseful mystery with many twists and turns! The likable and interesting characters keep you glued to the book to see the outcome. Make sure you set aside some time when you begin this one, because you won’t want to put it down!
His former partner comes to him asking for help. He is dying and has one case that has stuck in his mind for ten years. Callie Jones was a high school girl living on a Wisconsin lake… she leaves a gathering of friends in her boat and is never seen again. The boat is found and there’s evidence that she may have been harmed or taken, but the case has turned cold.
There aren’t many clues, but Ethan begins his search. Soon evidence is presented, but it’s coming from a disturbing source who has ties to Ethan. When another young woman is discovered to be missing, Ethan learns they may be connected, and is concerned that the violence is escalating.
Charlie Donlea knows how to write a suspenseful mystery with many twists and turns! The likable and interesting characters keep you glued to the book to see the outcome. Make sure you set aside some time when you begin this one, because you won’t want to put it down!
August 11, 2025
the setup…
It’s been ten years since Ethan Hall left the Wisconsin Division of Criminal Investigation to pursue a medical career. He’s now an ER doctor, at more peace now that he doesn’t have to face the horrors of crimes against children. But then Pete Kramer, his former partner, shows up, asking him to take a temporary absence and return to his former role to help him with the case that’s still haunting him. It’s the tenth anniversary of the disappearance of Callie Jones and Pete wants to solve it before he dies of his terminal condition. Callie’s father is now Governor and can facilitate Ethan’s return. There’s more at stake as he also has to come face to face with his own nemesis.
the heart of the story…
Ethan’s investigation leads back to the prison where serial killer Francis Bernard, his father’s murderer, is incarcerated. The man plays a psychological cat and mouse game with him, one they're both determined to win, and he’s somehow linked to Callie’s case and delivers Ethan essential clues. I really liked Ethan who was up to the challenge and has serious skills. His girlfriend Maddie is a detective and is part of his team with a special connection to the case that has haunted the town of Cherryview for ten years.
the narration…
Vivienne Leheny is such a pro and she handled a host of characters with ease and skill. I loved her voices for Ethan and Francis in particular. Her storytelling kept me on the edge of my seat.
the bottom line…
Be prepared for a twisty ride that will keep you on your toes. Francis is diabolical but Ethan is a steady force who had a 100% solve rate before leaving his law enforcement career behind. Both kept me on my toes and I didn’t even try to second guess, just concentrated on keeping up. That exciting ending? Better be a sequel to this one because I need more!
Posted on Blue Mood Café
(Thanks to Recorded Books and NetGalley for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
It’s been ten years since Ethan Hall left the Wisconsin Division of Criminal Investigation to pursue a medical career. He’s now an ER doctor, at more peace now that he doesn’t have to face the horrors of crimes against children. But then Pete Kramer, his former partner, shows up, asking him to take a temporary absence and return to his former role to help him with the case that’s still haunting him. It’s the tenth anniversary of the disappearance of Callie Jones and Pete wants to solve it before he dies of his terminal condition. Callie’s father is now Governor and can facilitate Ethan’s return. There’s more at stake as he also has to come face to face with his own nemesis.
the heart of the story…
Ethan’s investigation leads back to the prison where serial killer Francis Bernard, his father’s murderer, is incarcerated. The man plays a psychological cat and mouse game with him, one they're both determined to win, and he’s somehow linked to Callie’s case and delivers Ethan essential clues. I really liked Ethan who was up to the challenge and has serious skills. His girlfriend Maddie is a detective and is part of his team with a special connection to the case that has haunted the town of Cherryview for ten years.
the narration…
Vivienne Leheny is such a pro and she handled a host of characters with ease and skill. I loved her voices for Ethan and Francis in particular. Her storytelling kept me on the edge of my seat.
the bottom line…
Be prepared for a twisty ride that will keep you on your toes. Francis is diabolical but Ethan is a steady force who had a 100% solve rate before leaving his law enforcement career behind. Both kept me on my toes and I didn’t even try to second guess, just concentrated on keeping up. That exciting ending? Better be a sequel to this one because I need more!
Posted on Blue Mood Café
(Thanks to Recorded Books and NetGalley for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
Want to read
August 13, 2025Made it to my tbr because of Youssra's review
May 4, 2025
4.5 stars - thank you Kensington books for an early copy in exchange for my honest feedback
Publishes July 29
This is my 7th Donlea book and I’m fully convinced that he can’t write a bad book. I think he’s totally underrated as a thriller author and deserves way more recognition for the bangers he puts out. Perfect for fans of Riley Sager or Loreth Anne White.
This book did a great job of having me where it wanted me. With misdirection and red herrings, I was wracking my brain on possible outcomes to no avail. The twists and turns kept me engaged throughout and the grand reveal got me good.
I think this might be my new favorite by this author.
Video review: https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTjArKM8P/
Publishes July 29
This is my 7th Donlea book and I’m fully convinced that he can’t write a bad book. I think he’s totally underrated as a thriller author and deserves way more recognition for the bangers he puts out. Perfect for fans of Riley Sager or Loreth Anne White.
This book did a great job of having me where it wanted me. With misdirection and red herrings, I was wracking my brain on possible outcomes to no avail. The twists and turns kept me engaged throughout and the grand reveal got me good.
I think this might be my new favorite by this author.
Video review: https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTjArKM8P/
July 28, 2025
This was another Netgallery read I had to bump to the front of the line 🫣.. I LOVE Me some Donlea
You know that scene in Aladdin, when genie tells Aladdin he has 2 wishes left. Aladdin corrects genie, it's actually still 3 wishes, because Aladdin didn't technically wish to be brought out of the caves? The way genie's jaw drops to the ground in .25 seconds in response is exact same response one has to reading a Charlie Donlea Novel.
I will never forget Mr Donlea because he taught me that no matter how lazy you may be feeling at the time you always, always, ALWAYS, read a books epilogue!
I don't even like cop/FBI thrillers as a rule. In fact, they're pretty much at the bottom of my personal book food chain as it gets.. Can we just take a second and let that sink in? The talent it takes to be pulling 5 stars from people that aren't even the biggest fan of your genre. I personally think that speaks volumes. Another absolute home run and I'm absolutely not surprised!!
You know that scene in Aladdin, when genie tells Aladdin he has 2 wishes left. Aladdin corrects genie, it's actually still 3 wishes, because Aladdin didn't technically wish to be brought out of the caves? The way genie's jaw drops to the ground in .25 seconds in response is exact same response one has to reading a Charlie Donlea Novel.
I will never forget Mr Donlea because he taught me that no matter how lazy you may be feeling at the time you always, always, ALWAYS, read a books epilogue!
I don't even like cop/FBI thrillers as a rule. In fact, they're pretty much at the bottom of my personal book food chain as it gets.. Can we just take a second and let that sink in? The talent it takes to be pulling 5 stars from people that aren't even the biggest fan of your genre. I personally think that speaks volumes. Another absolute home run and I'm absolutely not surprised!!
July 26, 2025
A thriller should have some sort of satisfying ending. Some resolution.
I really enjoyed the first half, mostly enjoyed the latter half even though it started becoming more unrealistic, disliked the ending.
A detective turned ER Doctor helps to solve a cold case of a missing girl when new information comes to light.
If you ignore the impossibility of this Doctor suddenly being granted all this authority and favours, this was a compelling read. Addicting.
Then, the story starts to spiral and brings in a lot of other perspectives and a larger storyline. Plot twists meant to shock and turn the story on its head.
There were too many things I had to suspend belief over and then the ending felt very unsatisfying. This is a book one that you need to continue on with.
Arc gifted by publisher.
Bookstagram
Tiktok
I really enjoyed the first half, mostly enjoyed the latter half even though it started becoming more unrealistic, disliked the ending.
A detective turned ER Doctor helps to solve a cold case of a missing girl when new information comes to light.
If you ignore the impossibility of this Doctor suddenly being granted all this authority and favours, this was a compelling read. Addicting.
Then, the story starts to spiral and brings in a lot of other perspectives and a larger storyline. Plot twists meant to shock and turn the story on its head.
There were too many things I had to suspend belief over and then the ending felt very unsatisfying. This is a book one that you need to continue on with.
Arc gifted by publisher.
Bookstagram
Tiktok
June 12, 2025
A twisty and twisted novel that keeps you guessing. Told mostly in the POV of our main character, Ethan, we get glimpses into a few other side characters thought and actions that allow us a fuller picture of what happened to Callie 10 years ago and how it could possibly connect to the alleged serial killer who murdered Ethan’s father. There were few times one needs to suspend disbelief, but I enjoyed the ride it took me on.
I received an advanced copy through Netgalley in return for an honest review.
I received an advanced copy through Netgalley in return for an honest review.
August 31, 2025
OMG! OMG! OMG! This was intense, masterfully crafted, and kept me on the edge of my seat—my mouth hanging open until the very end. WOW!
This is my second book by Charlie Donlea, and I am beyond impressed. I was supposed to get some exercise today, but I had to finish this—I just needed to know the mystery surrounding Callie Jones’s disappearance.
Francis Bernard is pure evil, and his mind games with Ethan are what drove the plot. You’ll love and hate the characters, feel the anticipation in every twist, be gripped by the face-offs between detectives and killers, horrified by the crimes, and shocked by the unexpected reveal at the end. Honestly, I did not see that coming. Wow.
Is this going to be a series? If it is, count me in.
READ THIS NOW IF YOU’RE IN A READING SLUMP.
This is my second book by Charlie Donlea, and I am beyond impressed. I was supposed to get some exercise today, but I had to finish this—I just needed to know the mystery surrounding Callie Jones’s disappearance.
Francis Bernard is pure evil, and his mind games with Ethan are what drove the plot. You’ll love and hate the characters, feel the anticipation in every twist, be gripped by the face-offs between detectives and killers, horrified by the crimes, and shocked by the unexpected reveal at the end. Honestly, I did not see that coming. Wow.
Is this going to be a series? If it is, count me in.
READ THIS NOW IF YOU’RE IN A READING SLUMP.
July 15, 2025
If you like books by Riley Sager, Anna Downes, Alex Finlay, Stacy Willingham and/or Karin Slaughter, then I highly recommend this one!!
I loved the book Those Empty Eyes by Charlie Donlea, so I was excited to join the #DonleasDetectives Reading Group to share the love of all things Donlea!!
If you want a fast-paced psychological thriller and a plot full of surprises, then add this one to your tbr!!
Once you think you have it figured out, Donlea throws another twist. It has the perfect title because that's what you'll keep doing....guessing again!!
I loved the book Those Empty Eyes by Charlie Donlea, so I was excited to join the #DonleasDetectives Reading Group to share the love of all things Donlea!!
If you want a fast-paced psychological thriller and a plot full of surprises, then add this one to your tbr!!
Once you think you have it figured out, Donlea throws another twist. It has the perfect title because that's what you'll keep doing....guessing again!!
March 24, 2025
What I liked about it:
How the main character was a former special investigator who had retired and was now working as an emergency doctor, both interesting careers that offered useful knowledge and expertise
The two timelines merging past and present day cases together
The pacing of the book was quick and had a strong forward momentum from beginning through end.
There’s lots of characters, storylines, twists and turns all going on at once that offers a chaotic read full of surprises.
What didn’t work for me:
Although I found the storyline and characters interesting there was something that missed the mark for me, it was my first time reading this author and it may just be the writing style or dialogue that didn’t quite align with my typical reading preferences? I’ll try more by this author to figure out my thoughts!
Thank you for the gifted copy, publish date is July 29th 2025
How the main character was a former special investigator who had retired and was now working as an emergency doctor, both interesting careers that offered useful knowledge and expertise
The two timelines merging past and present day cases together
The pacing of the book was quick and had a strong forward momentum from beginning through end.
There’s lots of characters, storylines, twists and turns all going on at once that offers a chaotic read full of surprises.
What didn’t work for me:
Although I found the storyline and characters interesting there was something that missed the mark for me, it was my first time reading this author and it may just be the writing style or dialogue that didn’t quite align with my typical reading preferences? I’ll try more by this author to figure out my thoughts!
Thank you for the gifted copy, publish date is July 29th 2025
July 30, 2025
Guess Again Had Me Second-Guessing EVERYTHING 😵💫
Guess Again by Charlie Donlea — Audiobook ARC Review 🎧🧠🔍
3.5/5
Whew. I started this audiobook in the morning and finished it by bedtime — because once I pressed play, I couldn’t stop. This was tense. This was twisty. This was MIND-BENDING. And the ending?? That reveal?? Yeah, I’m still blinking at a wall trying to process it 😮💨
Thank you to NetGalley, Charlie Donlea, and RBmedia | Recorded Books for the early access — and happy pub day to the thriller king himself! 👑📚
🧩 So what’s it about?
Ten years ago, teenage volleyball star Callie Jones disappeared from her small lake town in Wisconsin. No body, no answers — just grief, rumors, and an unsolved case that went ice cold. ❄️
Fast forward a decade: Ethan Hall — former detective turned ER doc — is pulled back into the case by his dying ex-partner. One last chance to uncover the truth. One final shot at justice. And as Ethan digs into the shadows of Cherryview, what he finds? Let’s just say… no one is innocent. And everyone has something to hide 😳
🔥 The tension? Real.
💀 The secrets? DARK.
😬 The vibes? Small town, big lies, spiraling paranoia.
😵 But that ending tho…
Look, I live for a plot twist. I really do. And this one? Was wild. Like jaw-on-the-floor, “wait, rewind that” kind of twist. But… it also left me wanting more. The final reveal was huge — but it came in so fast, with so little explanation, I was kind of left scrambling. I needed the author to sit me down, hold my hand, and walk me through that chaos, because sir… my brain was doing somersaults 🧠🤸♀️
If there had been just a little more time spent unpacking the big “aha!” moment, this could’ve easily been a 4+ star read for me. Still, I was INTO IT. Charlie Donlea knows how to write suspense that grips. And honestly? I’d read whatever he writes next.
🎧 Also — the audiobook narration? So good. Seamless performance, moody pacing, and the perfect amount of “you should be nervous right now” energy. Loved it.
📚 Final Thoughts:
This book is…
🧠 Smart
🧩 Intricate
🌀 Fast-paced
🤯 Confusing (in a good/bad way?)
💀 And undeniably gripping
If you’re into cold case thrillers with layered twists, morally gray investigators, and an ending that will leave you stunned and yelling “WAIT WHAT” — add Guess Again to your TBR. Just don’t expect all the answers… and definitely don’t trust your gut. Because trust me, you’ll guess wrong 😉
Guess Again by Charlie Donlea — Audiobook ARC Review 🎧🧠🔍
3.5/5
Whew. I started this audiobook in the morning and finished it by bedtime — because once I pressed play, I couldn’t stop. This was tense. This was twisty. This was MIND-BENDING. And the ending?? That reveal?? Yeah, I’m still blinking at a wall trying to process it 😮💨
Thank you to NetGalley, Charlie Donlea, and RBmedia | Recorded Books for the early access — and happy pub day to the thriller king himself! 👑📚
🧩 So what’s it about?
Ten years ago, teenage volleyball star Callie Jones disappeared from her small lake town in Wisconsin. No body, no answers — just grief, rumors, and an unsolved case that went ice cold. ❄️
Fast forward a decade: Ethan Hall — former detective turned ER doc — is pulled back into the case by his dying ex-partner. One last chance to uncover the truth. One final shot at justice. And as Ethan digs into the shadows of Cherryview, what he finds? Let’s just say… no one is innocent. And everyone has something to hide 😳
🔥 The tension? Real.
💀 The secrets? DARK.
😬 The vibes? Small town, big lies, spiraling paranoia.
😵 But that ending tho…
Look, I live for a plot twist. I really do. And this one? Was wild. Like jaw-on-the-floor, “wait, rewind that” kind of twist. But… it also left me wanting more. The final reveal was huge — but it came in so fast, with so little explanation, I was kind of left scrambling. I needed the author to sit me down, hold my hand, and walk me through that chaos, because sir… my brain was doing somersaults 🧠🤸♀️
If there had been just a little more time spent unpacking the big “aha!” moment, this could’ve easily been a 4+ star read for me. Still, I was INTO IT. Charlie Donlea knows how to write suspense that grips. And honestly? I’d read whatever he writes next.
🎧 Also — the audiobook narration? So good. Seamless performance, moody pacing, and the perfect amount of “you should be nervous right now” energy. Loved it.
📚 Final Thoughts:
This book is…
🧠 Smart
🧩 Intricate
🌀 Fast-paced
🤯 Confusing (in a good/bad way?)
💀 And undeniably gripping
If you’re into cold case thrillers with layered twists, morally gray investigators, and an ending that will leave you stunned and yelling “WAIT WHAT” — add Guess Again to your TBR. Just don’t expect all the answers… and definitely don’t trust your gut. Because trust me, you’ll guess wrong 😉
July 30, 2025
This book completely delivered! It was tense, twisty, and full of atmosphere. Charlie Donlea has done it again with a layered, suspenseful story that kept me hooked from the start. I’ve read several of his books now, and this one might just be my favourite yet. It hits shelves on July 29th, and trust me you’ll want to get this on your TBR ASAP.
I had the chance to listen to an advanced audio copy, and the narration was spot on. It honestly added even more intensity to an already gripping plot. The story follows Ethan Hall (former detective turned ER doctor) who gets pulled back into the world of investigation on the 10th anniversary of the disappearance of Callie Jones. With a perfect track record for solving cases, a dying request from an old partner, and a community still craving closure, Ethan is forced to confront buried secrets including his own. Just when I thought I had it figured out… I was guessing again lol
Big thanks to RB Media and NetGalley for the ALC, this one was such a ride!
I had the chance to listen to an advanced audio copy, and the narration was spot on. It honestly added even more intensity to an already gripping plot. The story follows Ethan Hall (former detective turned ER doctor) who gets pulled back into the world of investigation on the 10th anniversary of the disappearance of Callie Jones. With a perfect track record for solving cases, a dying request from an old partner, and a community still craving closure, Ethan is forced to confront buried secrets including his own. Just when I thought I had it figured out… I was guessing again lol
Big thanks to RB Media and NetGalley for the ALC, this one was such a ride!
August 5, 2025
I like Charlie Donlea and this one did not disappoint. It was a bit darker than previous books by him, but I like it. It is very twisty and the title is well chosen. Some of the twists I saw coming but there were a couple that caught me by surprise. I listened to the audiobook and thought the narrator did a good job. I thought there were a couple of different choices that were obvious that people could have made, but it was still a fun and wild ride. Ethan gave up a life of investigating to return to school and is now and ER doctor. He and his partner Maddie bonded over all that the same killer took from them both. The governor approaches Ethan to investigate an old cold case that has ties to Ethan he could never have imagined.
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