Review of Dead Man’s List by Karen Rose
As someone who dives headfirst into the twists and turns of romantic suspense, I was instantly drawn to Dead Man’s List, the latest installment in Karen Rose’s gripping San Diego Case Files series. The promise of a complex mystery combined with intricate character dynamics had me intrigued from the start, and I was ready to see how Rose would weave her trademark intensity into the lives of her characters.
At the heart of this tale is Homicide Detective Kit McKittrick, a character whose strength and vulnerability pulled me in from the very first page. Faced with the chilling murder of a local councilman, Kit must navigate the pressure of a city desperate for answers while wrestling with her own emotional baggage. The introduction of Dr. Sam Reeves, the psychologist with a heart of gold and a simmering crush on Kit, adds an engaging romantic tension. I found myself rooting for Sam—so patient and devoted—while simultaneously feeling the weight of Kit’s fears that kept her tethered to loneliness.
Rose excels in crafting characters with rich backstories, and Kit’s journey through the foster care system imbues her with a depth that makes her profoundly relatable. I was struck by her unwavering loyalty, not just to her family and work but also to the memory of her murdered foster sister, Wren. This subplot, woven seamlessly into the main narrative, adds layers that amplify the stakes and emotional resonance of the story. The way Kit refuses to move on from Wren’s cold case creates a palpable urgency—both in her professional life and personal relationships.
The pacing of Dead Man’s List is nothing short of exhilarating. Just when I thought I had the mystery figured out, Rose threw in a twist that had my heart racing, especially in the nail-biting final chapters—seriously, don’t peek! This is a book meant to be savored, each detail intricately placed, and the revelations are too good to miss.
One standout aspect is the strong sense of community. Kit’s work with at-risk teens through the local shelter showcases Rose’s ability to integrate social issues into her narratives without detracting from the excitement. The dynamic between Kit and her colleagues also adds realism and warmth, grounding the sometimes frenetic mystery.
While I admit to feeling frustrated with the slower burn of Kit and Sam’s relationship in the earlier books, I see a method to Rose’s madness now. The build-up serves a purpose, reflecting Kit’s fierce protectiveness and fear of intimacy. This third installment made me appreciate the journey, as it illuminates the complexity of healing, love, and the struggle for trust—a beautiful, messy reality I think many readers will connect with.
Dead Man’s List is thrilling, fast-paced, and heart-stirring, balancing action and suspense with delicate human emotions. It easily stands alone but will undoubtedly resonate deeper for those familiar with the series. For anyone who enjoys a mix of mystery and romance with emotional depth, this book is a must-read.
As I closed the book, I was left with a profound sense of connection, not only to Kit and Sam but to the overarching message of resilience and hope that Rose beautifully captures. I highly recommend this book, and by extension, the San Diego Case Files series. Just be prepared: once you start reading, you might not be able to put it down!
Trigger Warning: The book includes several themes of abuse and trauma that may be unsettling for some readers, so proceed with discretion.
(Review based on a NetGalley copy generously provided by the publisher.)
Discover more about Dead Man’s List (Romantic Suspense #31; San Diego, #3) on GoodReads >>