🔐 Book Review: Deadlock by Catherine Coulter
A layered, high-stakes FBI thriller that blends psychological suspense, small-town secrets, and supernatural intrigue—with Savich and Sherlock navigating two chilling cases.
Book 24 in Catherine Coulter’s long-running FBI Thriller series, Deadlock delivers exactly what fans have come to expect: fast-paced action, eerie mysteries, and emotionally charged investigations. With a strong Goodreads rating of 4.27/5 from over 8,700 readers, this installment is praised for its dual-plot structure and compelling new characters.
🧠 Plot Overview
Savich and Sherlock are pulled into two separate but equally dangerous cases:
- Case One: A series of red boxes containing puzzle pieces are delivered to Savich at FBI headquarters. The image depicts a town only Agent Pippa Cinelli recognizes—her hometown of St. Lumis, Maryland. But the puzzle includes disturbing additions: blood, weapons, and ominous symbols. Pippa goes undercover to investigate, but someone in St. Lumis knows exactly who she is—and why she’s there.
- Case Two: A young wife, Rebekah Manvers, is contacted by a medium who claims to have a message from her deceased grandfather, a former congressman. The séance reveals a long-buried family secret involving a treasure called “The Big Take.” Rebekah is skeptical—until she’s nearly kidnapped. Savich steps in to protect her, uncovering a twisted plot that links political ambition, legacy, and revenge.
💬 Why Readers Love It
- Dual Mysteries: Coulter expertly weaves two distinct storylines, keeping tension high and stakes personal.
- New Faces: Agent Pippa Cinelli and Chief Matthew Wilde add fresh energy and emotional depth to the series.
- Paranormal Touches: The medium storyline adds a supernatural edge without overpowering the procedural core.
- Classic Savich & Sherlock: Their chemistry and competence continue to anchor the series, offering both warmth and grit.
📣 Critical Praise
- “[Deadlock] is difficult to put down… You may need numerous late-night readings to finish this satisfying thriller.” — Bookreporter
- “A big mistake—the killer goes after his family… Coulter’s storytelling is sharp, and the intertwined plots flow smoothly.” — Fresh Fiction
Some readers found the paranormal subplot slightly implausible, but most praised the emotional payoff and the eerie atmosphere of St. Lumis.
🏁 Final Verdict
Deadlock is a compelling addition to the FBI Thriller series, offering suspense, mystery, and a touch of the supernatural. If you enjoy stories where personal secrets collide with criminal intent—and where puzzles are more than just games—this one’s worth the read.
