4.5-STAR REVIEW: THE LEAST OF THESE by Mitchell S. Karnes

Book Reviews Christian Mystery Crime Fiction

About The Book

Abbey Rhodes Mystery Series: Book 2
Publication Date: July 30, 2025

Nashville Homicide Detective Abbey Rhodes is caught between a high-profile murder and multiple disappearances in a homeless camp. When the Mayor discovers one of the victims is the stepson of Jonathan Lee Thomas, a wealthy investor in the city’s East Bank Project, he forces Abbey to abandon all other cases. She faithfully follows orders until her best friend, Susan Ripley, goes missing.

Each case triggers Abbey’s PTSD, bringing the past and its secrets crashing around her. She stretches herself to the limit as she learns every life has value. Her investigation jeopardizes the safety of her closest friends, and Abbey must face her guilt when one of them is shot.

Excerpt

The Review

A high-profile murder case means Detective Abbey Rhodes and her partner face intense scrutiny amid pressure to make an arrest.

Author Mitchell S. Karnes serves up the second installment featuring Rhodes in The Least of These. Determining who killed the stepson of a major investor proves to be complicated.

Told in first person by Rhodes, the narrative follows the investigation as she and Det. Sam Tidwell runs down clues. The proximity of a homeless encampment adds a level of depth and danger for readers trying to solve the mystery.

As a character, Rhodes struggles to overcome a difficult past. Her brokenness continues to be a central point in the story, but she’s more open to regaining her faith. Her journey continues to gain momentum thanks to her friend, Susan.

The title itself holds special significance, making it even more meaningful. The small cliffhanger at the end offers an incentive to watch for the next installment.

The Least of These pushes Rhodes to refine her work as a detective for victims both alive and dead. Buy Links

About The Author

Mitchell S. Karnes is Christian husband, father, and grandfather. He uses his experiences and insights as a minister, counselor, and educator to write and speak on challenging issues and concerns with an ever-growing audience. This is his seventh novel. Mitchell has also published three short stories, a one-act play, and numerous Bible study lessons.

Through two separate battles against Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, God has given Mitchell a new perspective on life that challenges him to create stories not only to entertain audiences but call them to action. Mitchell’s mission is to reach and reconcile those who have been disillusioned with God and his church and inspire the church to live out the love of Christ Jesus in a broken and hurting world.