The second in the Monster Hunter series! Morgan is back and is once again being asked to help investigate a potential cryptid sighting in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. This time She’s called in to search for evidence of a Bigfoot type creature that is being accused of multiple murders. With the help of her dog Newt, Morgan heads to uncover the truth.
While I didn’t love the first book in the series, I adjusted my expectations and went in knowing this would have more Cozy Mystery vibes. I was hopeful that with the adjustment I’d really love the second book. Unfortunately, while I found the story to be intriguing, I never felt compelled to figure out the mystery and at less than 350pages the story itself felt much longer. The relationship between Jon and Morgan felt flat and while I understand taking it slow, the glacier pace between the two is rough.
I did like this one more than the first but it still wasn’t amazing. Ryan’s writing while great at capturing the atmosphere of the wilderness lacks a certain spunk, I’d expect from a mystery series focused on cryptozoology. This is probably great for big Cozy Mystery readers, but not if you’re looking for a fast-paced mystery.
Death in the Dark Woods is out now! Huge thank you to Berkley Books for my advanced copy in exchange for my honest opinion. If you liked this review please let me know either by commenting below or by visiting my instagram @speakingof.books or on Tiktok @speakingof.books
Another good one 👍