Black Orchid Girls

by Carolyn Arnold

[Nadz@Totally Addicted to Reading]

I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.Black Orchid Girls by Carolyn Arnold is the fourth book in the Detective Amanda Steele series. I have been following the series from the beginning and became invested in the lives of the principal characters. So imagine my joy when offered a copy for review. Once again Arnold delivered a story filled with twists, turns and a shocking end.

Nineteen-year-old college student Chloe Somner was found murdered on the banks of the Pontomac River. What made this puzzling was the manner in which the body was displayed. The killer placed a black Orchid on the victim’s torso. What was the significance of the black Orchid? Are they dealing with a serial killer or was this an isolated situation? Amanda and her partner, Trent, find themselves in a race against time to the killer before he claims another victim.

Each book in the series features a different mystery, making each easy to read as a standalone. However, to get a better understanding of the growth of the characters throughout the series, I would recommend reading the books in order.

Amanda made a life-changing decision in the previous installment. In Black Orchid Girls, she juggles the pressures associated with being a detective with this change in her life. It’s difficult, but like all the strong and independent women, she handled it like a champ.

The mystery held me captive from the discovery of the body to the taking down of the murderer. I made several attempts to figure out the villain’s identity, but each time I was off the mark. Arnold sprinkled so many breadcrumbs, which led to several potential suspects, all of whom had motive and opportunity. This, along with the many twists and turns, made for a complex mystery. As Amanda and Trent got closer to the truth, the danger intensified.

I enjoyed how well Amanda and Trent worked together. Their partnership has come along way since the first book. It also appears that a tiny spark is developing between them. This will no doubt change the dynamics of their relationship. Not sure how Arnold will handle that aspect. I will wait and see how it will play out.

In Black Orchid, Arnold delivered a suspenseful, fast-paced tale that keeps the reader on their toes from start to finish. It features characters with whom readers can relate. Fans of police procedurals, mysteries and thrillers should read this series.This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading