A Monster Hunter Mystery: Book 4
Publication Date: January 27, 2026
Under the light of the full moon, a quiet rural lane becomes the scene of a shocking crime that may be the work of a mythical monster in the latest entry of this USA Today bestselling mystery series.
When a dead body turns up along a lonely country byway in rural Wisconsin, rumors of The Beast of Bray Road, a werewolf-like creature that is said to inhabit the area are reinvigorated. For years locals have reported sightings of the terrifying creature, but this would be its first verified attack.
Marks on the dead woman’s body indicate a mauling by some kind of large animal. The wounds plus deep scratches on the victim’s car convince the community that the legendary beast is not only real but responsible for this brutal killing.
If the police have any hope of solving this crime, they’re going to need an expert—enter cryptozoologist Morgan Carter. She’s investigated sightings of eerie creatures throughout the upper Midwest. If anyone is going to track down the killer, it’s Morgan, but she may find that the Beast is not the worst thing lurking on Bray Road.
I’ve read books by Annelise Ryan before, and I loved her latest, Monster in the Moonlight.
I love the suspenseful beginnings of Ryan’s books that draw the readers in from the first page. No slow beginnings: Ryan reaches the audience through the pages, grips you, and won’t let go until the last page.
Though Morgan, the main protagonist, has flaws, has a history, and is trying to live her life one day at a time, I love how real and relatable she is. She also has a wonderful support system to help keep her grounded.
There is also a romantic element, adding another layer of interest for readers and keeping them hooked till the end.
The writing and dialogue are realistic, and the story is exceptionally well done. I had never heard of any of the creatures the characters mention in the book, with the exception of Bigfoot and unicorns.
The amount of research that went into this book is impressive, making for such fantastic fiction.
Monster in the Moonlight is an excellent addition to Ms. Ryan’s impressive portfolio. Perfect for a frigid, snowy day.
Annelise Ryan is the USA Today bestselling author of multiple mystery series, including the Mattie Winston Mysteries. A retired ER nurse, she now writes full-time from her Wisconsin home.
