By Tawni O'dell 

ISBN: 9781476755878
Publisher: Gallery, Threshold, Pocket Books
Publication Date: 8/19/14
Format: Other Format
Pages: 304
My Rating: 4 Stars

A special thank you to Gallery Books and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Tawni O’Dell’s ONE OF US is an engaging psychological thriller, set in an old coal mining town of Lost Creek, holding deep dark secrets in the backwoods of Appalachia. Loved the front cover image as pulls you into this world of mystery and murder.

Danny Doyle, born and raised in this coal mining town of Pennsylvania, and has no desire to return after struggling with demons from childhood, from bullying, an alcoholic father, and an mentally unstable mother, and the horrific death of his week old sister, which continues to haunt him.

Danny is a renowned Dr. Sheridan Doyle, a forensic psychologist for the Philadelphia DA’S office. He has risen above his blue collar roots, specializing in serial killers through television appearances, novels, and expert witness testimonies. Unfortunately he is called back due to his grandfather Tommy’s health (96 yrs old) and upon his return Danny discovers a dead body, which is the start of a chain of murders and deep dark buried truths. He and Rafe, a father figure and detective, begin to investigate the death and make connections, as Danny has to confront his worst fears.

The story really takes a turn when Scarlet Walker, daughter of the mine owner, also returns and casts shadows of doubt of the present deaths and those occurring in the past. Written from different perspectives (Scarlet/Danny) from past and present-- uncovering the darkest past.

Filled with details, intertwining the past and present of this chilling town between the families, struggles, minds, and power of the people involved. 

A complex mystery filled with rich characters with depth and emotion for a well written novel which will keep you turning to the end. From struggles of this mining town to the minds of the mentally unstable, tragedies, and ghosts of the past – a fascinating novel!

This is my first book by Tawni O’Dell, and look forward to reading more!