It’s been a few weeks since I did a book cover judging post. I have gathered up lots of interesting and beautiful books since then — thanks to authors of Threads!

Today I’m talking about Bad Water by TJ Buck. This one slipped through the net in the last round of submissions. I had it saved in the wrong folder. (So many folders. I’m due a clean up.)

This book cover instantly reminded me of westerns my uncle used to read many years ago. My first impression was cowboys. That branch sticking up behind the tree trunk looks like a rifle at first glance. The darkness, and the title, Bad Water, tells me that bad things have happened or are about to happen.

I looked this book up on Amazon and Goodreads to find out more and I was disappointed that there is no blurb for the book, which is unusual. It simply tells me that this a cold case murder investigation from multiple perspectives.

Is this enough for me to delve deeper? Actually, yes, because I’m a sucker for murder investigations. However, it’s the positive reviews that would sell this book to me.

Ellie Midwood on Goodreads⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“Bad Water” is a gripping crime thriller that keeps readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. The novel is uniquely told from the perspectives of three women from the same family, offering a rich, multigenerational insight into the crime that has haunted them for decades.

The story begins with Gina, whose mother Tina was tragically killed when Gina was only three years old. Now an adult, Gina returns to her hometown, driven by a relentless desire to uncover the truth and seek justice for her mother. The narrative seamlessly shifts between Gina, her grandmother, and her boss—an ex-boxer who becomes an unexpected ally in their quest for justice.

The author masterfully weaves together the voices of these three women, each bringing their own experiences, emotions, and determination to the forefront. Gina’s grandmother, a resilient and strong-willed woman, has long yearned for the perpetrator to face justice. Her perspective adds depth to the story, highlighting the enduring impact of the crime on the family.

Gina’s boss, with his own troubled past, proves to be a surprising yet invaluable ally. His unique skills and connections bring a fresh dynamic to the investigation, adding layers of complexity and suspense.

The plot is filled with unexpected twists and turns, keeping readers guessing until the very end. The obstacles the characters face are formidable, from uncovering long-buried secrets to dealing with the looming threat of an unknown serial killer. The tension builds as the story progresses, leading to a thrilling and satisfying climax.

“Bad Water” is not just a tale of crime and justice; it’s a profound exploration of family, resilience, and the unyielding pursuit of truth. The multigenerational perspective enriches the narrative, making it a standout in the crime thriller genre. Readers will find themselves emotionally invested in the characters’ journey and eager to discover whether they will succeed or if the killer will remain at large.

Overall, “Bad Water” is a must-read for fans of crime thrillers, offering a compelling and heartfelt story that lingers long after the final page.

Progress Wings on Goodreads ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

A Riveting Journey Through Mystery and Morality

It’s a great choice for anyone who likes mysteries that not only have puzzles to solve but also dig deep into what people feel and the tough decisions they face.The story is told through different characters, including a hardworking detective named Hendrix, a woman named Gina who lost her mother to murder, and Chester Charlton, a man with secrets.

The story builds tension slowly, leading to big surprises that make you want to keep reading.
All the characters like Detective Hendri, Gina, and Chester Charlton are well developed. Bruce Charlton, which add interesting twists to the story.
Theme is also very clearly explained, It makes you think about how far someone might go to protect their family and what is morally right or wrong.
The conversations between characters are realistic and show a lot about their personalities without needing too much explanation.

Final Thoughts: It’s a deep look at how people handle difficult situations and the painful journey toward finding the truth. If you enjoy mysteries that make you think deeply, this book is worth reading.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and found it utterly unputdownable.

My first impression of this book cover wasn’t 100% accurate but I was very close — bad things happened! Sounds like a great little read, judging by these excellent reviews. Available on Amazon. Bad Water by TJ Buck.

Thank you for reading!

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