In their latest collaboration, bestselling authors Colleen Coble and Rick Acker have crafted a compelling thriller that masterfully blends contemporary technological concerns with timeless themes of love, loss, and redemption. Set against the backdrop of Northern California’s majestic redwood forests and the charming Norwegian-American community of North Haven, “I Think I Was Murdered” delivers a unique and thought-provoking exploration of how artificial intelligence might impact our most intimate emotional experiences.
Plot & Narrative Structure
The story follows Katrina Berg, a successful corporate attorney whose perfect life implodes when her husband Jason dies in a suspicious car accident. Already struggling with grief, she faces professional turmoil when her employer, Talk Inc., comes under federal investigation. When her beloved grandmother passes away, Katrina returns to her hometown of North Haven, armed with only her memories and a sophisticated AI chatbot programmed with Jason’s digital footprint.
The narrative takes an explosive turn when the AI bot delivers a chilling message: “I think I was murdered.” This revelation sets Katrina on a dangerous path to uncover the truth, aided by Seb Wallace, a childhood acquaintance who has transformed from an awkward teenager into a successful restaurateur.
Character Development
One of the novel’s greatest strengths lies in its rich character development:
- Katrina Berg: Her journey from grief to healing feels authentic and nuanced. The authors skillfully portray her struggle with technology-enabled denial without making her seem pathetic or weak.
- Seb Wallace: Perhaps the most compelling character, his evolution from a disadvantaged youth to a sophisticated businessman carries real emotional weight. His persistent love for Katrina adds depth to both characters.
- Liv Tompkins: A complex antagonist whose motivations remain intriguingly ambiguous until the final revelation.
Writing Style & Pacing
The collaboration between Coble and Acker proves seamless, combining Coble’s talent for emotional depth with Acker’s expertise in legal and technological details. The pacing is generally well-maintained, though some readers might find the middle section slightly meandering as the romance subplot takes center stage.
Themes & Social Commentary
The novel tackles several contemporary themes:
- The role of technology in processing grief
- The ethical implications of AI development
- The tension between progress and tradition
- The power of community and family bonds
- The possibility of second chances in love and life
Technical Elements & World Building
The authors’ research into both AI technology and Norwegian-American culture shines through without becoming pedantic. The fictional town of North Haven feels authentic, with its blend of modern amenities and traditional customs providing a perfect setting for the story’s themes.
Critical Analysis
Strengths:
- Innovative premise that feels timely yet timeless
- Well-developed characters with believable motivations
- Seamless integration of technology and emotion
- Rich cultural details that enhance the setting
- Satisfying resolution that ties up most loose ends
Areas for Improvement:
- Some secondary plot threads could have been more fully developed
- The pacing occasionally slows during the middle chapters
- The technical aspects of the Bitcoin subplot might confuse some readers
- A few coincidences stretch credibility
Romance Element
The love story between Katrina and Seb provides a warm counterpoint to the thriller elements. Their relationship develops naturally, acknowledging both characters’ past hurts while offering hope for the future. The authors handle the delicate balance between honoring Katrina’s love for Jason and allowing her to move forward with grace and sensitivity.
Comparative Analysis
While “I Think I Was Murdered” shares DNA with techno-thrillers like “The Circle” and grief narratives like “The Year of Magical Thinking,” it carves out its own unique territory. Fans of Ruth Ware’s atmospheric suspense and Laura Griffin’s romantic thrillers will find much to appreciate here.
Impact & Relevance
“I Think I Was Murdered” raises important questions about our increasing reliance on technology for emotional support and the potential dangers of artificial intelligence. These themes feel particularly relevant in an era where AI chatbots are becoming increasingly sophisticated and prevalent.
Final Verdict
Despite some minor pacing issues and occasional plot conveniences, the novel succeeds in delivering a compelling mystery while thoughtfully exploring deeper themes about grief, love, and the role of technology in our emotional lives.
Recommendation
This book is highly recommended for readers who enjoy:
- Technology-driven thrillers
- Romance with depth and complexity
- Stories about grief and healing
- Small-town mysteries
- Cultural exploration
About the Authors
This collaboration between Colleen Coble, known for her coastal romantic suspense novels, and Rick Acker, celebrated for his legal thrillers, brings out the best in both authors’ styles. Their combined expertise creates a narrative that feels both technically accurate and emotionally resonant.