A review by leilah_21
Heartsick by Chelsea Cain

5.0

Heartsick by Chelsea Cain is like a dark chocolate truffle with a surprise ghost pepper filling—disturbingly good but not for the faint of heart. The plot follows Detective Archie Sheridan, who, after spending ten days being tortured by the infamous serial killer Gretchen Lowell, inexplicably finds himself drawn to her like a moth to a very dangerous flame.

Our hero, Archie, is back in action trying to catch another killer, but let’s be honest, his real problem is his bizarre fascination with the woman who almost ended him. It’s like watching a train wreck where you can’t help but be intrigued by the carnage. Gretchen’s gruesome murders are detailed with such vividness that you’ll be questioning your own sanity for enjoying it.

The book does an excellent job of making you feel like a voyeur peeking into a particularly twisted episode of Criminal Minds. Archie’s dynamic with Gretchen is unsettling, yet you can’t help but be fascinated by their messed-up relationship. Who knew Stockholm syndrome could be so riveting?

Meanwhile, Archie’s trying to solve another case, but let's be real—his true crime-solving skill is trying to untangle his own weird feelings for Gretchen while dodging her deadly charm. It’s the kind of story that makes you appreciate your boring, murder-free life.

If you’re up for a thriller that’s equal parts gruesome and gripping, Heartsick will keep you on the edge of your seat (or make you want to hide under the covers). It’s a wild ride through the dark alleys of human obsession, served with a side of “what did I just read?” A solid one-time read that’s as disturbing as it is compelling.