Sarah Crouch returns with a lush, atmospheric thriller set deep in the misty mountains of the Pacific Northwest. The story follows Annie Heston, a young woman escaping a broken relationship who takes a job as a game warden in the secluded town of Lake Lumin. As she warns the community about a roaming cougar, Annie discovers that the real threat may be far closer to home, especially after a young woman’s body is found in the briars bordering the property of Daniel the carpenter who seems to be the only local willing to welcome her in.

With a slow-burn mystery at its core, The Briars is well thought out and the prose is stellar. I found myself fully invested after the first chapter and while it is slow, it works for the story. Our main characters are all likeable, layered, and thoughtfully developed. Their many flaws and baggage added the perfect level of intrigue to the story without overcomplicating the plot.

I enjoyed trying to piece together the clues right alongside Annie and Jake. Crouch’s descriptive writing is one of the novel’s greatest strengths; you truly feel as if you’re in the Pacific Northwest. Mixed with the expertly crafted tension the story kept me guessing until the very last pages without the over use of red herrings.

This is Sarah Crouch’s second novel, and she delivers once again. Her ability to craft complex, compelling characters makes her a standout author in my opinion. As in Middletide, she demonstrates a remarkable talent for weaving atmosphere into every page. I didn’t love it quite as much as Middletide, but it’s a strong read, especially for anyone who prefers their mysteries with a more literary, character-driven approach.

Middletide review

AMAZON | GOODREADS | BOOKSHOP | ★★★★

The Briars comes out January 13, 2026. Huge thank you to Atria Books for my copy in exchange for an honest review. If you liked this review, please let me know either by commenting below or by visiting my Instagram @speakingof.books.