Day: April 1, 2022

The Killer’s Family by Miranda Smith is another psych thriller that is more like a mystery suspense than what I think of as a psych thriller.

Although now that I think about it, there are elements of psych thriller in it. For example, there are plenty of red herrings and other false leads that keep the reader guessing who is responsible for…well, everything.

But I am getting ahead of myself.

The opening setting is a funeral – and that kind of event definitely sets the tone. Three sisters (Cara, Rachel, and Molly) mourn the loss of their father, a short time after they also lost their mother.

Their parents were essentially pillars of the community.

But, soon, questions arise that make the reader ask “Or were they?”

The sisters find information that casts a decidedly dark shadow on their father. And at that, one might think that the story that follows is low-key, as the “big reveal” happens early on.

Or does it?

As always, no spoilers here. The author does a great job of balancing the story between the three sisters. Throughout the plot, they each contribute insight to solving the mysteries they are unwittingly thrust into.

Another thing, and I think the parallel is supposed to be made, but I was reminded of the Zodiac killer who terrorized the San Francisco Bay Area in the late 60s. I found there to be similarities with the Gemini killer.

The author also cleverly casts doubt on just about everyone at one point or another. And the final reveal is one that you will not see coming. It finally answers who the killer’s family actually is, and it probably isn’t who you think.

Miranda Smith has written other psych thrillers that you should check out as well.

Author Bio:

Miranda Smith writes psychological and domestic suspense. Before completing her first novel, she worked as a newspaper staff writer and a secondary English teacher. She now lives in East Tennessee with her husband and three young children.