I dare you to figure this one out! I’m guessing that by the title you assume it has something to do with Crossword puzzles (which I’m horrible at). But it was fun to try and figure out the clues. But, even then there’s no way you can guess what’s coming. Lots of suspense, some romance, and lots of twists and turns.

There’s a sweet Christian faith that’s woven in the story with the characters. It’s not overwhelming, it’s just everyday faith.

Let me say, it’s been awhile since I read book 1, 26 Below. I think it would have been best to have reread it before reading this book. There’s so much I had forgotten, but the author did fill in some blanks and it helped. But these books are all connected and cannot be read out of order. The 3rd book will be out in October and I’m sure I will have forgotten how this one ended. So, yes, it’s a great series, I highly recommend them. But as for me, reading them one right after the other would work better. And just to be truthful, I’m the same with all mystery/suspense series that continues either with the plot or characters. ( )

8 Down is the second novel in the Alaskan Cyber Hunters trilogy and if you thought the first novel was intense then just you wait. This novel was one heart-pounding moment after another with scarcely a breath in between. The fact that the time ticks down with the use of crossword puzzles is so incredibly clever and added a unique charm to an otherwise dark tale. I loved watching them solve the puzzles while I myself also tried to solve them with the clues at the beginning of each section and chapter.

Not only do we get to bear witness to the investigation into the cyberattacks but we get to hear the thoughts from the man behind the terror, his evil personified on the pages. I couldn’t help but feel sorry for Carrie. Here she is in a new state that feels like a whole new world, not knowing anyone and is the lead on a high profile case. I can see how she would second guess herself and her choices the deeper into the investigation she gets, but I admired her tenacity and determination to stay focused and solve this case.

I’m usually a sucker for a good love story but sadly that was the one part that felt forced to me. I didn’t feel like the intensity we’re supposed to believe happens between Carrie and Scott is organic and would’ve preferred if that arc was left out completely. I think the fact that it was sandwiched in between such intense suspense made it pale in comparison to the main narrative.

I love this series so, so much and hate that I have to wait to see its conclusion. It is highly entertaining, the characters are wonderfully fleshed out, and the scenes so incredibly vivid. I love the whisper of faith that is breathed throughout and the suspense and action are unparalleled. I seriously cannot wait to see the conclusion of this trilogy and cannot recommend this series highly enough.

*I have reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own. ( )

I loved this romantic suspense novel. I loved all the action and the romance. I loved that the story flows very well. I loved Carrie and Scott. I felt that Carrie as an agent and Scott as the cyber guy were a great pair. I did not want the story to end and I could not put it down. I received a copy of the book from the publisher for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will. ( )

8 Down is the chilling sequel to 26 Below by Kimberly Woodhouse. This romantic suspense cyberthriller takes up where the previous book ends, but this time there are two new investigators on the newest twist to the terrorist(s)’ plans. Carrie is a rookie investigator with the Alaska Bureau of Investigation. She is plunged into a case featuring multiple murders with multiple causes, yet all pointing to one diabolical hacker. Scott joins the case with his strong cyber-credentials. There are others on the case as well, but the focus is on Carrie and Scott as they seek to uncover the twisting clues and develop a romantic relationship. The subject matter is pretty intense and frightening. Hackers are able to access personal laptops, medical records, traffic lights — you name it — in an effort to cause mayhem and death. The reader is introduced to the bad guy right away, and the look into a psychopath’s mind is intense! As I said, this book continues the first book in the Alaskan Cyber Hunters series, and while I didn’t have a problem getting up to speed, I should have read book one first. That’s definitely on the agenda now! A strong faith message rounds out the romance and suspense nicely. Both main characters are believers, but they have the same doubts and foibles that we all do. I also really liked the setting. Most of the action takes place in Anchorage, a town I have visited twice. It was fun to join the characters for meals at a restaurant we also loved.

If you like your suspense fast-paced, your romance sweet, and your bad guys over the top 😉 , you are going to love 8 Down!

Recommended!

Audience: adults.

(Thanks to the publisher for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.) ( )

Wow! It began with 26 Below and now, there's a thrilling addition to the Alaskan Cyber Hunters series. If you want a heart-pounding race to find a psychotic killer, in a story that will keep you turning the pages, grab a copy of 8 Down NOW!

I'm a long-time fan of her historical fiction novels, but author Kimberley Woodhouse's venture into psychological suspense is extraordinary! I loved the characters, the Alaskan setting, and a peek into the work of both the FBI and the ABI (Alaska Bureau of Investigation). The ticking-clock suspense, the baffling crossword puzzle clues that the serial killer uses to taunt the authorities, and the portrayal of a demented mind are all absolutely chilling!

But wait...there's also sweet romance, a powerful faith message, and a cliffhanger message in the epilogue that promises even more thrills ahead. I recommend 8 Down to all who enjoy inspirational romantic suspense.

I received a digital advanced copy from the author. There was no obligation for a positive review. ( )