This riveting mystery thriller offers an exciting read that isn't too creepy about a serial killer who uses novels as guide for murdering and posing his victims. The main character, Erin Delaney, a former police officer and best-selling author, must not only deal with the demons from her past but faces challenges with her writing and her book being used by the novel killer. It is easy to identify with her struggles and insecurity and fascinating to watch the attempts to unravel the crimes and find the UNSUB. Oozing with suspense and drama, this book won't be set aside long before you rush to the conclusion, which offers a surprise I didn't see coming. I received a copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

I have read of copycat killers. This one is similar but different. The serial killer is copying murders from the books written by several best-selling novelists. The murder scenes are set up like the scenes described in their books, but each one has certain differences. Erin Delaney goes to help her friend, Kaely, to try to figure out what is going on, but Kaely and her husband also feel that Erin needs protection. I love the way the faith story plays out in a natural manner as Erin and Kaely spend more time together. Nancy Mehl once again throws in so many curves that keeps the reader guessing. Her stories typically include multiple situations going on that help to throw the reader off course. The action and suspense are unbeatable.

Nancy Mehl once again pulls readers into a tale of good versus evil, and it's hard to determine the cause of that evil! A killer who uses murder scenes from popular murder mysteries has used one of Erin Delaney's books for his latest crimes, and Erin is also accused of stealing a book plot from another author. How much more must she endure as she and Kaely Quinn-Hunter feverishly work to stop this madman?

Mehl created a powerful duo when she paired FBI profiler Kaely with ex-policewoman/author Erin in the first Erin Delaney Mysteries, and Dark Design continues to explore their special partnership. They're both haunted by troubled pasts, but Kaely's faith has sustained her. Will her strong Christian witness convince Erin that she needs the peace and comfort found in knowing God personally?

I loved the characters, the intricate clues, and the powerful faith message woven into the plot. Friendship and romance sweetened the story, but danger, fear, and compelling suspense kept me turning the pages! This isn't my first Nancy Mehl book, and it certainly won't be my last. The riveting conclusion of Dark Design left me yearning for the next book in this series!

I received a complimentary copy from the author and publisher. There was no obligation for a positive review.

"I was only nine years old when I knew I was destined to be a serial killer "(location 25). Wow! What a dark but fascinating start to this book. I love Mehl's books. The cases are always intriguing and this one was no different. Someone is copying the murders from famous novels. It was fun seeing Kaely Quinn back in her element along with Noah and the team. Knowing characters adds to the enjoyment of the book for me.

I disagreed with one theological point in the book. The author doesn't seem to have a place for God's sovereignty and human responsibility to coexist whereas I think they both are true and it is one of the big mysteries of the faith. I don't think it makes humans puppets. Other than that, I appreciated the talk of faith and salvation and enjoyed seeing Erin come to terms with it all.

This is a great read and I'd highly recommend it. Thank you to Bethany House for providing me with a free e-copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

I was only nine years old when I knew I was destined to be a serial killer.

My favorite line from the book. There is plenty of suspense as Kaely Quinn Hunter teams up with Erin Deleaney to try and figure out who the serial killer is that is using the murder methods from author's books. This is one of those books where you think you figure out who did it and then discover you are wrong. Another excellent book in the series.