Thicker Than Water by Brigid Kemmerer

Title: Thicker Than Water
Author: Brigid Kemmerer
Publisher: Allen & Unwin
Date of Publication: January 1st 2016
Source: ARC giveaway winner

Synopsis: - 

Thomas Bellweather would never knowingly hurt someone he loved. But when his mother is murdered inside their locked house, he is the only suspect. Even his cop-stepdad can't protect him forever in a new town where no one knows or trusts him.

The only person who believes him is Charlotte, sister to three protective cops and straight-up dangerous to Thomas. She knows there are pieces missing in the puzzle, and she's determined to find them.


But finding things that are hidden could get them both killed.

Review - 

I was lucky enough to win a copy of this on Instagram. I read the entire Elementals series over Christmas and loved it, so I was very excited to read this one. Like the Elementals series, there is a paranormal element to the story, but it's not the focus, and doesn't become obvious until quite a way into the book.


Thomas is the only suspect in his mother's murder. His stepfather, a police officer, isn't sure whether he's guilty, but he seems to be the only one. When Thomas meets Charlotte, it seems that she might believe him too, but her brothers are all cops, as is her father, and they're convinced of his guilt. Charlotte can't seem to keep away from Thomas, and she's not sure she wants to.

I read this book in one sitting (about 4 or 5 hours). I loved the intensity and could really feel Thomas' growing frustration. Everything he did made him seem guiltier, yet he knew he wasn't. He was attracted to Charlotte, but knew this put him in more danger and that she was ultimately bad for him. I found Thomas' viewpoint more compelling than Charlotte's, although she does start to develop a backbone as the story develops.

The paranormal elements of the story don't come into it until later in the book, although they are sign posted earlier on. This could be jarring if you're expecting a straight contemporary/mystery, so it's good to be aware that it's coming.

I thoroughly enjoyed it and am very much hoping there'll be a sequel.