Review of Riley's End

[Shanesha Sammerson]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Riley's End" by Bill Hansmann.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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Riley's End by Bill Hansmann is a gripping and emotionally charged mystery novel that takes readers on a captivating journey through the past, entwined with the uncertainties of the present. The story begins with Anthony, an aging man who, upon discovering he has cancer and facing his own mortality, decides to unravel the decades-old cold case surrounding the tragic death of his teenage friend, Riley.
 
From the moment Anthony makes the life-altering decision to uncover the truth behind Riley's untimely demise, the novel hooks readers with its intriguing premise. Contacting his own children, Linda and Tommy, who run a detective agency, leads them to delve deeper into the investigation, unraveling a web of secrets surrounding Riley's death. The author's meticulous attention to detail and seamless pacing make the storyline all the more captivating, leaving me guessing at every turn.
 
What truly sets Riley's End apart is the compelling character development. Anthony's emotional journey, coming to terms with his own mortality while seeking justice for his friend, is beautifully depicted. As the past unravels, readers are given glimpses into the complexities of human relationships, loyalty, and redemption. The character dynamics are so intricately woven that I found myself empathizing with each person involved in the case.
 
Bill Hansmann's writing style is engaging and fluid, making the book a pleasure to read. The plot is well-constructed, offering the perfect balance of suspense, mystery, and emotional depth. I appreciated how the story seamlessly transitions between the present investigation and flashbacks, which provided valuable insights into Riley and the events leading up to the tragic incident.
 
One of the most commendable aspects of the novel is its professional editing. The writing is polished, and any minor errors are barely noticeable, allowing readers to remain fully immersed in the unfolding mystery. Bill Hansmann's writing style is captivating, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable reading experience.
 
In addition to its gripping plot, the novel also explores themes of forgiveness, closure, and the consequences of one's actions. As the truth unravels, it becomes evident that some wounds never fully heal, and the choices made in the past continue to resonate in the present.
 
In conclusion, Riley's End is a masterfully written mystery that tugged at my heartstrings and kept me captivated until the final page. Bill Hansmann has crafted an unforgettable tale of secrets, friendship, and the search for truth. I found nothing to dislike about the book, and I wholeheartedly rate it 5 out of 5 stars. Whether you are a fan of mysteries or drawn to stories exploring the complexities of human emotions, Riley's End is a must-read that will leave a lasting impression.
 

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Riley's End
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[Amy Luman]

Wouldn’t it be great if everyone had someone who was so concerned about them? While we don’t all have detectives at our disposal, we can all help.

[Kathie Slief Turner]

Nice review of what sounds like my kind of book. I love mysteries and the story of a man facing death interests me. I'm intrigued by finding out about Riley, what they uncover at the detective agency, and the nature of Riley and Anthony's friendship. I'll be adding this one to my bookshelf. Thank you for such a well-written and thorough review!

[NetMassimo]

A man facing his mortality who decides to solve a cold case makes an interesting mystery and the emotions that come out during that investigation give it intensity. Thank you for your great review!

[Cornelius Hines]

Finding out bad news would turn good,if it's someone who cares about you by your side. No one wants to die alone,but sometimes it has to be that way.

[Anita Jonker]

I like the fact that the mystery plot is combined with features like forgiveness, friendships and closure. A good review that surely made me consider reading the book.