Dreams, Deception, and Danger in the Ozarks: A Table Rock Mystery Review
- Kim Bartosch
- Jul 11
- 3 min read
Moving to a peaceful small town sounds like the beginning of a dream—but in A Table Rock Mystery, that dream unravels with chilling intensity. Set against the scenic backdrop of Branson, Missouri, this psychological thriller blends cozy charm with razor-sharp suspense, pulling readers into a story where nothing—and no one—is quite what they seem.
Thank you to the author for the book and my honest review. This book tour is sponsored by iRead Book Tours. Scroll down to read my full review and enter the giveaway!
My Review of "A Table Rock Mystery" by Tom Wood
The novel follows a young couple who leave behind the bustle of city life for the picturesque Ozarks, chasing their shared dream of running a small-town tavern. The early chapters are infused with warmth and a genuine sense of hope, particularly for readers (like me!) with fond memories of Branson’s twinkling charm. I found the descriptive writing of the area absolutely nostalgic—there’s something magical about seeing places you know reflected on the page.
But the tone quickly shifts. A forged loan application lights the fuse for a chain of harrowing events: a kidnapping, multiple murders, and a rising tide of dread that refuses to let go. Suddenly, the couple’s dream is spinning out of control, caught in a web of crime, secrets, and betrayals that not even the peaceful Ozark shoreline can soothe.
Where the novel shines brightest is in its atmosphere and pacing. From quiet walks along the lake to tense police interrogations and unexpected bursts of violence, every chapter leaves you wondering what’s next. The tension builds steadily—this isn’t just about solving a mystery, but about uncovering the layers of deception hiding behind small-town smiles.
The local sheriff’s department scrambles to keep up, and so does the reader, in the best possible way. Just when you think you’ve figured out who’s behind it all, another twist lands like a punch to the gut. It’s one of those thrillers that doesn’t let you feel safe, even for a moment—which, of course, is part of the fun.
There’s also a nice psychological undercurrent at play. The story examines how desperation can cloud judgment, how greed can distort relationships, and how even the most ordinary people can be pulled into extraordinary darkness. The multi-million-dollar secret that ties everything together is both believable and chilling in its implications.
If I had one critique, it would be the character development. While the plot moves at a brisk pace, I found myself wanting a deeper connection to the characters—especially the couple at the heart of the story. There were hints at their backstory, motivations, and emotional journey, but I would’ve loved just a little more time in their heads and hearts. That said, the suspense and scenery more than make up for it, and the side characters—especially the ones tied to the mob subplot—add some real spice.
Despite its PG rating, there’s enough grit to satisfy thriller fans while still being accessible to readers who shy away from graphic content. The audiobook version brings the story to life with solid narration, while the print and eBook formats make it easy to enjoy the story however you like to read.
Final Thoughts:
A Table Rock Mystery is a fast-paced, atmospheric thriller that turns the tranquility of small-town life into a stage for crime, deception, and survival. With a well-woven plot and strong sense of place, it’s a perfect weekend read for anyone who loves their mysteries with a side of psychological intrigue. Just don’t get too comfortable—because in Branson, even the stars can’t hide what lurks in the dark.
🔍 Recommended for:
Fans of psychological thrillers, small-town mysteries, crime fiction, and twisty plots that keep you guessing.
📚 Notable themes:
Greed, betrayal, ambition, survival, small-town secrets, and the illusion of safety.
This looks like an excellent novel. Thanks for sharing.