In their latest collaboration, bestselling authors Colleen Coble and Rick Acker deliver a thought-provoking thriller that expertly weaves together contemporary themes of artificial intelligence, cryptocurrency, and the complexities of grief. Set against the atmospheric backdrop of a Norwegian-American town in Northern California, “I Think I Was Murdered” is a compelling exploration of how technology can both heal and harm us in our darkest moments.
Plot & Narrative Structure
The story follows Katrina Berg, a successful corporate attorney whose perfect life crumbles after her husband Jason’s death in a car accident. When her company faces federal investigation and her beloved grandmother passes away, Katrina finds solace in an AI chatbot programmed with Jason’s digital footprint. The narrative takes a sharp turn when the bot suggests Jason was murdered, launching Katrina into an investigation that uncovers layers of betrayal and danger.
What sets this thriller apart is its innovative use of technology as both plot device and metaphor. The authors demonstrate a sophisticated understanding of AI capabilities while never letting technical details overshadow the human elements of the story. The pacing is masterful, with revelations carefully timed to maintain tension while allowing character development to breathe.
Character Development
The character work is one of the novel’s greatest strengths. Katrina’s journey from grief-stricken widow to determined investigator feels authentic and earned. Her relationship with Seb Wallace, the local restaurateur with his own complicated past, develops naturally and adds depth to both characters. The authors excel at showing how past trauma shapes present actions, particularly in Seb’s case.
Secondary characters are equally well-drawn. Magnus, Katrina’s brother, undergoes significant growth throughout the story. The revelation of Liv’s true nature is particularly well-handled, with earlier scenes taking on new meaning in retrospect.
Writing Style & Technical Execution
The prose is clean and efficient, serving the story without calling attention to itself. Dialogue feels natural and helps distinguish characters. The authors demonstrate particular skill in describing the Norwegian-influenced setting of North Haven, making the town feel like a character in its own right.
Strengths
- Innovative integration of technology themes with traditional thriller elements
- Well-developed characters with believable motivations
- Strong sense of place and atmosphere
- Complex exploration of grief and healing
- Satisfying romantic subplot that doesn’t overshadow the main narrative
Areas for Improvement
While the novel is generally strong, there are a few areas where it could have been stronger:
- The final revelation about the Satoshi egg feels somewhat convenient
- Some technical aspects of the AI might stretch credibility for knowledgeable readers
- The triad subplot could have been more fully developed
- A few loose ends regarding the FBI investigation are left unexplored
Thematic Depth
“I Think I Was Murdered” excels in its exploration of several interconnected themes:
Grief and Technology
The authors thoughtfully examine how technology can both help and hinder the grieving process. Katrina’s reliance on the chatbot raises interesting questions about healthy versus unhealthy coping mechanisms.
Trust and Betrayal
The story delves deep into the nature of trust and how betrayal can affect relationships. The complex web of relationships between characters serves to highlight different aspects of this theme.
Identity and Growth
Both main characters struggle with questions of identity – Katrina in redefining herself after loss, and Seb in reconciling his past with his present success.
Impact and Relevance
The novel feels particularly timely given current discussions about AI ethics and the role of technology in our emotional lives. It raises important questions about the boundaries between human connection and artificial interaction without becoming preachy or didactic.
Market Position & Similar Works
Fans of Ruth Ware’s psychological thrillers and Laura Griffin’s romantic suspense will find much to enjoy here. The book also shares DNA with technothrillers like Blake Crouch’s “Dark Matter,” though with a stronger emphasis on character relationships.
Final Verdict
While not perfect, it successfully combines elements of multiple genres – thriller, romance, and techno-mystery – into a satisfying whole. The authors’ experience shines through in their handling of complex themes and character relationships.
Recommendation
Strongly recommended for readers who enjoy:
- Character-driven suspense
- Technology-themed mysteries
- Romance with substance
- Exploration of grief and healing
- Small-town settings with unique cultural elements
Target Audience Notes
“I Think I Was Murdered” will particularly appeal to readers interested in:
- Contemporary thrillers with technological elements
- Stories about healing and second chances
- Mysteries with strong romantic subplots
- Books exploring current social issues through fiction
The novel represents a strong addition to both authors’ bodies of work and showcases their ability to tackle contemporary themes while delivering an engaging story. Despite minor flaws, it’s a compelling read that will leave readers thinking about its themes long after the final page.