In the heart of Alaska, where icy winds howl and darkness stretches across the tundra, a series of gruesome murders sends shockwaves through the tight-knit community. Kerri Hakoda’s novel, “Cold to the Touch,” plunges readers into a bone-chilling mystery that combines rugged landscapes, complex characters, and relentless suspense.
Plot Overview:
Detective DeHavilland Beans, a seasoned investigator in Anchorage, faces his most harrowing case yet. When the body of a young barista named Jolene is discovered in the snow, Beans recognizes her immediately. Determined to bring her killer to justice, he dives into the investigation, navigating treacherous terrain and battling the unforgiving Alaskan elements.
As the body count rises, Beans teams up with Raisa Ingalls, a wildlife expert and his former flame. Their chemistry sizzles even as danger lurks around every corner. Together, they uncover dark secrets hidden beneath the frozen surface—a web of betrayal, revenge, and desperation.
Themes and Atmosphere:
Hakoda masterfully captures the essence of Alaska—the biting cold, the isolation, and the eerie beauty. The novel explores themes of survival, resilience, and the primal instincts that emerge when faced with life-or-death situations. Readers will feel the frost on their skin and hear the haunting cries of wolves echoing through the wilderness.
Character Depth:
Beans is a flawed but determined protagonist. His past haunts him, and his commitment to justice borders on obsession. Raisa, on the other hand, brings warmth and vulnerability to the story. Her knowledge of wildlife adds a unique layer to the investigation, and her complicated history with Beans adds emotional depth.
Conclusion:
“Cold to the Touch” is more than a murder mystery—it’s an exploration of human nature against a backdrop of ice and shadows. Hakoda’s vivid prose and intricate plotting make this novel a must-read for anyone craving a spine-tingling adventure.
Read the Full Novel Here
Cold to the Touch by Kerri Hakoda | Goodreads
