Title: Ties That Bind
Author: Carolyn Arnold
First published January 1, 2011
275 pages, Kindle Edition
Rating: 3.8
Overview
Detective Madison Knight is not one to back down from a challenge. She’s fearless, sharp-witted, and takes no nonsense from anyone, especially when it comes to solving a murder case.
When a woman is found dead in a park, strangled with a brand of neckties that Madison recognizes, she knows that they’re dealing with a serial killer. Despite the pressure from her superiors to wrap up the case quickly, Madison refuses to compromise her values and risk putting an innocent person behind bars.
But with a partner who’s more interested in saving his marriage than stopping the killer, Madison may have to rely on her own instincts to catch the culprit. Will she be able to stop the murderer before it’s too late?
Find out in Ties That Bind, a gripping crime thriller by Carolyn Arnold.
About the Author
Meet Carolyn Arnold, an accomplished author with a global following. She is the proud recipient of numerous awards and accolades, and is renowned for her riveting books that span several genres, from cozy mysteries to gritty thrillers.
With almost thirty published books and multiple ongoing fiction series, Carolyn’s readers are spoiled for choice. Her crime fiction series, in particular, have won the praise of law enforcement officials for their accuracy and gripping plots, leading to her adoption of the trademark: POLICE PROCEDURALS RESPECTED BY LAW ENFORCEMENT™.
Carolyn’s love for the great outdoors is matched only by her appreciation for the bright lights of the big city. She was born and raised in a small town but her imagination knows no bounds.
She is committed to bringing joy, inspiration, and empowerment to millions of readers worldwide.
Carolyn is based in London, Ontario, Canada, where she resides with her husband and their two adorable beagles.
Editoral Review
Ties That Bind by Carolyn Arnold is a gripping crime thriller that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end. Arnold is an award-winning author with numerous books to her name, and this novel is a shining example of her talent for crafting suspenseful and engaging stories.
Set in the small town of Eagle Falls, Kentucky, Ties That Bind follows Detective Madison Knight as she investigates a string of murders that are connected to a series of unsolved cases from years ago. As Madison delves deeper into the case, she begins to uncover secrets and lies that threaten to tear apart the tight-knit community.
Along the way, she must navigate complex relationships with her colleagues and confront her own demons from the past.
Arnold’s writing style is clear and concise, allowing the story to flow smoothly from beginning to end. She expertly weaves together multiple plot threads and character arcs, creating a rich and immersive world that readers will not want to leave.
The setting of Eagle Falls is vividly described, with its small-town charm and dark underbelly both on full display.
One of the strengths of Ties That Bind is its well-developed cast of characters. Madison is a compelling protagonist, with a strong sense of justice and a vulnerable side that makes her relatable.
The supporting characters are equally well-drawn, with their own motivations and secrets that add depth to the story.
The pacing of the novel is also spot-on, with the tension ratcheting up with each new clue or revelation. The plot structure is tight and well-crafted, with no loose ends or unnecessary filler.
In terms of themes, Ties That Bind explores the bonds of family, friendship, and community, as well as the darker aspects of human nature such as greed, jealousy, and revenge. There are also timely issues touched upon, such as police corruption and the opioid epidemic.
While there are no major flaws in Ties That Bind, some readers may find the violence and graphic descriptions of crime scenes to be too intense. Additionally, some of the dialogue and character interactions may feel clichéd or overly dramatic at times.
Overall, Ties That Bind is an excellent crime thriller that will appeal to fans of the genre and anyone who enjoys a well-written and suspenseful story. Carolyn Arnold’s writing is top-notch, and her ability to create memorable characters and intricate plots is on full display in this novel.
I highly recommend it.
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars.
