Thank you Berkley Pub, #partner, for the advanced copy of The Sister’s Curse in exchange for my honest review.
Publisher: Berkley
Published: October 21, 2025
Summary:
There’s something in the water in Bayern County…
When mysterious drownings plague her small town, a detective haunted by her serial killer father must uncover whether revenge, ancient legends, or something darker lurks beneath the surface.
Lieutenant Anna Koray thought she’d finally found solid ground and escaped her past as the daughter of a notorious serial killer. A loving boyfriend, a loyal dog, a life that almost feels normal—except darkness has a way of seeping in. When she saves a boy from drowning, the strange marks on his body tell a disturbing something in the depths tried to drag him under.
Days later, another victim surfaces with identical marks and Anna’s instincts scream that these are no accidents. Both victims are connected to the Kings of Warsaw Creek—men of the town’s wealthiest and most influential families. And they have enemies.
Others whisper that there are witches in Bayern County, seeking revenge for a long-ago murder. Perhaps it’s the work of Vivian Carson, the enigmatic bartender who’s rumored to cast hexes on those who wrong her. Or maybe it’s a secret coven who’s been leaving serpentine symbols and skulls behind at the scenes of the drownings.
But Anna’s investigation reveals an even more sinister something is stirring in the water, and it wants the Kings to pay.
With time running out and more victims appearing, Anna must separate superstition from truth. But in Bayern County, where legends and curses run deep as the water itself, one wrong step could drag her into the depths—this time for good.
My thoughts:
This is the 2nd book in the Anna Koray series and I am a fan! I’m so glad I decided to read the 1st book before going into this book — The Hunter’s Daughter came out last year — it really provides some helpful background for this book, especially when it comes to understanding Anna.
This book is another perfect read for #spookyseason…I mean, what’s not to love about a story filled with secret covens, the possibilities of certain people being witches, and symbols being left at crime scenes? Oh and did I mention the serial killer thread? That’s always a win for me in at any time, but most especially now!
This book is steeped in atmosphere and just enough paranormal elements to fully engaged without going over the top. The writing is exquisite — beautiful yet also haunting and eerie. I also love how conflicted our main character is…and without giving spoilers for either book (because I highly recommend reading both!!), this is so well executed. You see how she wants to be good but also can’t help acting on impulse at times. Her history haunts her.
I sure hope this isn’t the last we’ve seen of Anna Koray! This has quickly become a favorite series of mine.
Books in this series:
- The Hunter’s Daughter
- The Sister’s Curse
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