Review of After He Took (A Sloane Riddle Suspense Thriller—Book 1) by Rylie Dark
When I first stumbled upon After He Took, it was the name Rylie Dark that caught my attention. After all, this is the same author whose previous works left so many readers spellbound. As soon as I read the intriguing premise of Detective Sloane Riddle—an ex-corrections officer haunted by her past and caught in a twisting web of crime—I knew I had to dive right in. With its promise of suspense and psychological depth, I was ready for what felt like a thrilling ride, and oh, what a ride it was!
From the first chapter, I felt an electric tension that never truly ebbed. Sloane, with her brooding past and sharp insights into criminal psychology, quickly became a character I was deeply invested in. As she navigates a series of puzzling murders tied to her previous life in a prison, Dark masterfully interlaces Sloane’s personal demons with the unfolding mystery. The themes of trauma, redemption, and the gray areas of justice create a rich backdrop that adds meaningful layers to the fast-paced plot.
I found Dark’s writing style refreshingly concise yet vividly descriptive. The pacing, akin to a ticking clock, pulls you in, making it nearly impossible to put the book down. I often found myself reading late into the night, battling eyelids that begged for rest, just so I could unravel the next twist. It’s not just a thriller; it’s a psychological puzzle that invites you to keep guessing. I was particularly drawn to the vivid imagery Dark creates, especially when depicting the stark desert landscapes juxtaposed against the dark events that unfold there. It creates a haunting atmosphere that lingers well after the final page.
One of the most compelling aspects of After He Took is the dynamic between Sloane and her partner, Max. Their relationship is not just a backdrop; it serves as a heartbeat throughout the narrative. As they piece together clues, their banter provides moments of levity amidst the chaos—a much-needed tension breaker that made their camaraderie feel authentic and relatable. This connection resonated with me, emphasizing the importance of trust and collaboration in facing the darkest moments.
As I reflected on the book, a quote from one of the early chapters lingered in my mind: “Sometimes, the past doesn’t just haunt us—it hunts us.” This encapsulated Sloane’s struggle perfectly and stirred a myriad of thoughts about how our histories shape our identities and decisions.
For lovers of thrillers and mysteries, particularly fans of Lee Child or Melinda Leigh, After He Took is a must-read. It’s filled with gripping twists and unexpected turns that will keep even the most seasoned readers on their toes. And while the book draws to a satisfying conclusion, it also leaves just enough unanswered questions to pique your curiosity for the next installment.
In conclusion, Rylie Dark has crafted a truly engaging first book in the Sloane Riddle Suspense Thriller series. The blend of a strong, complex protagonist with psychological depth and a fast-paced mystery creates an exhilarating reading experience. If you’re in the mood for a gripping tale that will keep you turning pages long past your bedtime, After He Took is the book to add to your TBR pile. It captivated me, challenged my predictions, and made me reflect on the fragility of our pasts. I can’t wait to see where Sloane’s journey takes us next!
You can find After He Took (A Sloane Riddle Suspense Thriller—Book 1) here >>