Six years ago, Stella snuck her younger brother Max out to a party—and he vanished without a trace. Now, she runs a true-crime podcast, helping other families find closure while still haunted by her own loss. When she publicly claims she could solve Max’s case with just one clue, a mysterious stranger challenges her to play a dangerous game that might finally reveal the truth. But as people close to her start disappearing, Stella realizes she may be up against someone who knows all her secrets—and isn’t afraid to kill.

I liked it but didn’t love it. As a mystery, it was fine. I didn’t really guess who did it, but the reveal felt a little out there and forced. Stella gave me so much anxiety, and the constant lying, red herrings, and blame made the story feel a bit unnatural at times. I normally love podcast-style thrillers (especially when the format is included), but this one skipped that element, and the extra POV from the “Suspect” just felt overly dramatic.

I still enjoy McKinnon’s books, but this one dragged in places, and honestly, everything big happens in the last two chapters. Overall, it’s a fine mystery but with zero likable characters, and it left me more stressed than entertained.

Other Hannah Mary Mckinnon reviews

AMAZON | GOODREADS | BOOKSHOP | ★★★

A Killer Motive comes out September 9, 2025. Huge thanks to MIRA for my copy in return for my honest review. 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