As an adoptee, I knew I had to read In the Blood. I’ve read books from April Henry before and so I knew to expect some twisty surprises! Keep reading this book review of In the Blood for my full thoughts.
Summary
Adopted as a newborn, Tessa has always wondered who her biological parents are. After turning 18, she takes a DNA test in hopes of finding the answers. With best friend El and lab partner Victor, Tessa uses the results to start building her family tree. But they find more dead ends than answers. Her biological mother, who was raised in a religious cult, has cut all ties with her controlling family. And her biological father remains a complete mystery, at least until the police show up. For fifteen years, they’ve been trying to identify a serial killer known as the Portland Phantom. Tessa is the link they’ve been waiting for.
Review
(Disclaimer: I received this book from the publisher. This has not impacted my review which is unbiased and honest.)
I will always read a book about adoption and In the Blood immediately hooked me. At first you’re wondering, what is happening. But what unfolds is a book with multiple perspectives, examinations of the past, and more. It begins to (un)ravel the mystery of what happened as your heart starts dropping into the pit of your stomach. There’s immediately this thrumming of tension as you aren’t sure who to believe and how the strings will all connect. But when it does, WOW! In the Blood brings the mystery action and delivers a story about family, loyalty, and love.
(Disclaimer: Some of the links below are affiliate links. For more information you can look at the Policy page. If you’re uncomfortable with that, know you can look up the book on any of the sites below to avoid the link)
If you like true crime stories, In the Blood is a must read. It feels like watching the stories, the coverage, the moments happen in real time. I had my heart in my throat towards the end and ended up reading the last 20% in one sitting. Fast paced to the ending, In the Blood is perfect for mystery readers. Find In the Blood on Goodreads, Storygraph, Bookshop. org, Blackwells, & Libro. fm.