Overview
The idea of a new life is so tantalizing, Katie Werner will make a desperate leap toward freedom, despite the consequences. Similar to Black and Blue and Sleeping with the Enemy–This domestic suspense thriller is a provocative mix of intrigue, psychological manipulation, false clues, and second chances. Armed with documents voluntarily given to her from a deceased friend, Katie begins to plot and scheme an elaborate escape from narcissistic husband, Jack.
On the day of her deliverance, Jack senses something amiss, and Katie has only a three-hour head start. A frenetic game of cat and mouse ensues across Savannah, with Katie staying just a step ahead of Jack, the police investigating her disappearance and an increasingly frenzied media. Katie ends up stranded less than one-hundred miles from home. Out of money, out of choices, she must make this new place home. Although they don’t know her true story, the townspeople–particularly three strong women– give her a sense of self-worth she’s never known.
Jack, however, has not given up his search for Katie—determined to find her and regain control of his life—he is drawing ever closer. Unable to accept a foundation built on falsehoods, Katie makes a decision that puts her in Jack’s cross-hairs one last time. As the threads unravel, Jack becomes more dangerous, culminating in a final confrontation that seems ripped from the pages of today’s newspaper. Somewhere between love and hate, and truth and lies, a fragile hope abides.
Reader Reviews
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I loved this story from beginning to end. Just when I was sure I had it figured out, a new twist came along. Katie’s story kept me on the edge throughout. Can’t wait to see what Katrina Morgan comes up with next.
Linda W, Amazon
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Reading this book felt like watching a film unfold in slow, powerful motion. Every chapter felt like a scene built around emotion rather than action, and I appreciated that so much. The author has a gift for painting moments that stay with you — moments that feel like snapshots of real life. The tension between the characters is handled with such control. No wild drama, no unnecessary twists — just raw, believable conflict. I especially loved how the “crookedness” in the story isn’t just about one man — it’s about the way life bends us, shapes us, challenges us. There were chapters that made me stop and breathe because the weight of what was happening felt incredibly authentic.
Amelia Foster, Goodreads
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
If you love character-driven novels, this is one you shouldn’t miss. There Was a Crooked Man reads like a study of brokenness, resilience, and the quiet ways people try to rebuild themselves. I was impressed by how deeply the author explores the inner worlds of the characters. Their thoughts, their fears, their memories all of it shapes the story more than the events themselves.
Mark Olivia, Goodreads
The pacing is deliberate, thoughtful, and patient, and I found that refreshing. Not every book needs to shout to get your attention; this one whispers, and somehow that whisper is more powerful.
The writing is rich without being heavy, the dialogue is real without being dramatic, and the emotional depth is steady throughout. What stood out most to me was how the book captures the gray areas of human decisions how sometimes people hurt others without meaning to, how guilt grows quietly, and how redemption is messy but possible.
This is storytelling with heart and intelligence, and it deserves every bit of praise. Thank you!
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