I got in my head, for some reason, when I started to read this book that this would be a paranormal thriller. However, I quickly, after reading the blurb, realized that it was just a thriller. However, it was a pretty good thriller, so I'm pleased.

What I like about this book that there were never any dull moments from the start until the end. I mean why on earth would anyone want to hurt a bunch of scientists? And, would any of the scientists survive? Also, what's it in the cargo bay? I was hooked, and I came to like Berrister, Mortimer, and the rest very much and I was worried that any of them would die. Antarctica is a danger place as it is, but having people after you for some strange reason. Well, that's tough!

I love reading books about Antarctica, whether it be thrillers or literary fiction, hell I even take romance. It's such a fascinating setting for a book. The Killing Ship is no exception. And, I like that the ending is open. Hopefully, there will be a sequel!

I want to thank Severn House for providing me with a free copy through NetGalley for an honest review. ( )

Reading The Killing Ship was my first time reading Simon Beaufort and I was not disappointed. The Killing Ship is a short novel with only 217 pages but a lot of action is packed into its pages. It takes place in Antarctica where a group of scientists are spending the summer doing research.

With 10 days left to finish their research, marine biologist Andrew Barrister turns down a request from his co-workers to take a long hike to view the scenery on Antarctica's Livingstone island. No one is supposed to leave the station on their own due to hazardous conditions. However, a few leave but do not return. No one knows if they were together or went out on their own. A crew is dispatched to look for them but one hears gunshots and another sees a ship. It is too late in the season for ships to be in the region so it is a suspicious arrival. Then one of the scientists discovers that their food and supplies have been sabotaged and there is not enough food to go around before their rescue ship comes to pick them up. As they leave the station to search for their crew members the scientists run into killers on the island who are pursuing them for reasons unknown.

I loved this story. It was fast paced and suspenseful. The ending was surprising and a little shocking too. Psychological thrillers are my favorite mystery sub-genre for a reason. They are engrossing with each chapter ending with suspense and characters who are so shocked by their circumstances that they begin to lost reality. The Killing Ship aptly fits the bill. Highly recommended. ( )