Knife in the Back by Karen Rose: Review

When it comes to romantic suspense, there are a few authors that I gravitate to, and Karen Rose is one of them. She is a master of pacing and riveting storytelling.

If you love cop thrillers and crime procedurals, this is a fabulous choice. Part of a series, you should read a book or two before diving into this one, but you could get through it with her great descriptions. Read on for my review of this amazing story.

Knife in the Back by Karen Rose
Series: Book 4 of 4: New Orleans
Publisher: ‎ Berkley
Publication date: ‎ August 12, 2025
ISBN-13: ‎ 978-0593638613

OVERVIEW:
Officer Naomi Cranston was framed for stealing cocaine from the evidence locker and coerced—through threats to her young son—into not fighting the charges. After five years in prison, she has tried to put the ordeal behind her, but the crooks who framed her have returned, this time demanding she move drugs along with her flower shop’s deliveries. They threaten her son once again, but this time she’s not capitulating quietly. She hires Broussard Investigations to protect her and her son, to prove her innocence, and to put the real bad guys away.

As a former cop, Burke Broussard is well aware of the corruption in the New Orleans police department. He had always believed Naomi Cranston to be guilty and isn’t inclined to take her case. Until he sits down to listen to her side of things. Until he sees her tortured innocence written all over her beautiful face…

A relationship born amid an investigation is a fragile thing. Will it survive the danger and the threats? Will it survive the truth?

Knife in the Back by Karen Rose Review

I love Burke, and I was so excited to find this is his installment of the series. I see it is listed as book 4 of 4, and for that I am super sad. His team is the best, and this series is awesome. Please don’t stop writing this series!

I have to say, I could not stop reading this book. I was a little hesitant due to the subject listed, but the further I got into the story, the more fired up I got, right along with the characters.

Corruption is at its worst in the city, and Burke and associates dive deep into this whodunit. Loaded with twists you do not expect, this massive book is addictive!

Rose spins this story into a frenzied pace, especially since it’s Burke’s book and we can see his vulnerability. His found family is everything, and it is under attack.

Namoi is an awesome character and a powerhouse once she gets going. She has lost much but is finding so much more. Knife in the Back is a tad overwhelming with characters, but all of them are a part of the story and needed.

Crazy paced, Rose keeps us on edge as attacks come from all sides, along with a shocking betrayal that will break your heart a bit. On the good side, the romantic bits are on point and so perfect!

Knife in the Back is so freaking good! Do not miss this book. Really! Rose is truly at the top of her game with this story! She is a master of pacing and riveting storytelling.

5 Fab STARS!!

Disclaimer: Chris has personally reviewed the product listed above. She has not received any monetary compensation for her review but did receive a free ebook so she could evaluate and use it for this post. Her thoughts & opinions in this review are unbiased & honest and your opinions may differ.