Read advance reader review of Somebody Worth Killing by Jessica Payne, page 3 of 4

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Somebody Worth Killing by Jessica Payne

Somebody Worth Killing

by Jessica Payne

  • Critics' Consensus (12):
  • Readers' Rating (52):
  • Published:
  • Jun 2026, 304 pages
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There are currently 23 member reviews
for Somebody Worth Killing
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  • Carolyn L. (IL)
    Interesting read but not for everyone
    I loved the first chapter of Somebody Worth Killing. I was drawn in immediately by the setting and how the author described where main character was and how they felt. Since I enjoy mysteries with complicated characters I was very interested in where the author was going with this novel.

    However, I know there are readers who really want relatable and likable characters so I am not sure that if this is something a reader needs, I am not sure this book will meet that need.

    I found Somebody Worth Killing to be as easy read with twists that were supported by the narrative. I enjoy a "good" twist but am not impressed with twists that are just thrown in. I was extremely interested in what was going to happen to the characters.
    I believe readers who enjoy thrillers/mysteries with complicated characters will enjoy this book.

    Thank you for the opportunity to read this book and I wish the author every success with the novel.
  • Laura J. (Bellevue, WA)
    Captivating
    Somebody Worth Killing by Jessica Payne is a fast-paced psychological thriller that keeps the tension high from beginning to end. Jessica Payne does an excellent job creating morally complicated characters and weaving together suspense, manipulation, and emotional intensity without relying on unnecessary twists. The pacing is sharp, making it difficult to put down, and the short chapters add to the feeling of urgency.

    What stood out most was how the novel explores obsession, revenge, and the gray areas between justice and morality. The characters feel unpredictable in the best way, keeping readers constantly questioning motives and loyalties. While dark at times, the story remains engaging and entertaining throughout. Fans of domestic thrillers and psychological suspense will likely enjoy the clever storytelling and mounting tension. A gripping and addictive read that delivers plenty of surprises without feeling overdone.
  • Ruthie A. (Jersey City, NJ)
    Fast and Fun
    Nadia is a suburban mom of two girls, the wife of a man who loves her and who she loves, as much as she can. Nadia is also a psychopath and an assassin for hire. She has mastered her secret life and is for the most part, happy. A wrench gets thrown into the works when she is offered a job that has her shocked and confused.

    This novel is very fast moving. Nadia is full of energy and so is her story. She keeps herself under control but killing bad people and we come along for the ride. The story is told from her point of view only (finally, a book from one perspective) and she goes from cool and organized to confused and slightly crazed. I love that we get to see all the little details about how she manages her family and her job, and keeps all the balls in the air. Despite her job, she is a very likeable killer.

    The writing is well suited to the pace of the story, short on descriptions and focused on the action. While a bit predictable is was nonetheless a fun and engaging read.
  • Barbara B. (Harlingen, TX)
    Somebody Worth Killing by Jessica Payne
    Nadia only seems to be a normal wife and mother. She is also an assassin for hire. She only kills bad people. She loves her job until her next contract is to kill her husband.

    I loved the twists and turns in this book. The author kept me guessing with every page.. And then the story just stopped with a happy ending but with more issues unsolved than answered. As much as I loved reading the book the end disappointed me. Do I have to buy another book---------
  • Nina W. (Milwaukee, WI)
    Wait for the twist
    In the beginning, I thought the plot predictable. I could see it coming. But then a dizzy twist while picking up speed! I was delighted! In a nod to the author, fiction means to me that readers who comment that it is not like true life are missing the point. It's fiction! So, I enjoyed how it all resolved. And…I loved Gran! I bet you will too!
  • Sandi
    Somebody Worth Killing
    3.5 stars Thanks to BookBrowse for sending me this ARC and NetGalley for the download. Publishes on June 16, 2026.

    I enjoyed this book more than I ever thought I would. The protagonist quietly and quickly grows on you. A wife, a mom, works with the PTA, visits her Gramma in a nursing home, and all the while hides the fact that she is an assassin. Worried that she has been 'mommy-tracked' - Nadia requests a 'big' job and once she gets it her troubles really begin!

    This book could very easily be the beginning of a great series. The one downfall I found was the ending. I thought it was weak and seems to be rather abrupt in comparison to the rest of the story. Some of the story details were not fully fleshed out in the end, in my opinion, more just noted in passing.
  • Margaret S. (Lincoln, NE)
    A fun read
    I couldn't put this book down, despite the impossibility of it all. For example, a hired killer is the mother of young children. She even travels out of town. She even travels out of town for jobs. There is not much more I can say without spoiler.

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