Book Review: Cold as Hell (Haven’s Rock, #3) by M. J. S.
When I spotted Cold as Hell on my NetGalley dashboard, I felt a rush of excitement. The allure of a Yukon sanctuary battling against the harsh winter, combined with a gripping mystery featuring a pregnant detective, drew me in instantly. M. J. S. has crafted an engaging series, and I was eager to dive back into the world of Haven’s Rock. However, as I turned the pages, I found my connection with the story and its characters wasn’t as strong this time around.
The plot kicks off with Detective Casey and her husband Eric striving to maintain the peace in their eerie yet captivating sanctuary. When one of the residents goes missing, drugged and taken into the deep woods, the tension escalates. The stakes rise even higher as a snowstorm hits, ultimately leading to the discovery of a dead body. It’s a tantalizing setup, rich with potential. Still, I couldn’t help but feel that the execution fell short of what I hoped for.
Casey’s first-person perspective, presented in present tense, left me wanting more depth in her character. Unfortunately, her thoughts often veered into territory that felt overly whiny and self-indulgent. It was frustrating, especially given her experience in handling dangerous situations. While her idealism could spark important discussions around morality, it also rendered her slightly naive at pivotal moments. I craved the resoluteness that would typically come with her years on the job.
On the upside, the mystery itself is intriguing, filled with twists and engaging commentary that kept me guessing. New character Sebastian quickly became a highlight for me, his presence adding a fresh dynamic to the group. The chemistry during the unfolding of the suspenseful plot seemed to dazzle, even as I lamented the predictable climax that left me feeling underwhelmed.
One of my favorite aspects has always been the charming setting of Haven’s Rock, but this time, it felt like it had lost its magic. As a winter enthusiast, I thought I’d revel in the snowy landscapes, but sadly, they didn’t come alive for me in the same way as before. A few scenes with Casey’s canine partner, Storm, did lift my spirits; honestly, he’s a dear, stealing my heart yet again. I found myself chuckling at a brief encounter with a little kid—her enthusiasm served as a delightful reminder of hope amidst the chaos.
The climax, while intense, felt excessive, making Casey resemble a hero with a reckless streak rather than a seasoned detective weighing the consequences of her actions. I appreciate that some readers might revel in this tension, but it felt a tad implausible for my tastes. Yet, I’ll admit that the concluding chapters offered a lighthearted reprieve, wrapping up loose ends with a warm, cozy vibe.
In conclusion, while Cold as Hell presents a compelling premise and ultimately offers closure to the series’ overarching narrative, I found myself slightly detached from its execution. This installment might resonate with readers who appreciate overt heroics and relentless suspense, even if I’m a bit of an outlier in my views. For those engrossed in the Haven’s Rock saga, reading in order is essential, as this book doesn’t quite stand alone.
Thank you, NetGalley and St. Martin’s (Minotaur Books), for access to this early reader copy. My opinions remain my own, ready to foster a conversation about our reading journeys! If you love cozy mysteries tinged with heroics set against a frosty backdrop, maybe this installment will warm your heart in just the right way. Happy reading!
Discover more about Cold as Hell (Haven’s Rock, #3) on GoodReads >>