The Hanging Dolls by Ruhi Choudhary. This is the first book in the Special Agent Zoe Storm series and I can’t wait for more to be published.

Thank you to NetGalley for my audio ARC, the book released end of July 2025.

The book opens with a young Zoe witnesses a traumatic event and then the book jumps to where she is a Special Agent for the FBI. We get little glimpses into young Zoe’s life throughout the book.

Zoe and her work partner, Dr Aiden Wesley, are called in to investigate the murder of a young girl. Her body was found gently propped up against the trunk of a large tree with a stuffed animal found close by. Three symbolic nooses are found hanging from a branch near her little body. CCTV footage shows a distorted picture of a man giving little Lily sweets shortly before she disappeared.

Days later another girl vanishes from her bedroom during the night. How are they linked? Zoe receives a cryptic note indicating the name of the next girl and an abandoned greenhouse on the outskirts of the town. Is this a trap? Zoe is willing to take the chance if she can save a little girl’s life.

I loved the pacing of the book and the reveal at the end was totally unexpected. Looking forward to reading more about Agent Storm.

Review shared on Goodreads and @books.bubbles.beach - cant add the links

BLOG TOUR REVIEW

Review for 'The Hanging Dolls' by Zoe Stone

This is the sixth book I have read by this author. It is also the first book in Ruhi's brand new 'Zoe Stone' series. I have also read the first five books in Ruhi's epic 'Detective Mackenzie Price' series and would highly recommend that series too!! Which reminds me I need to type this up and go read the sixth book!!!


Yet another absolutely stunning page turner from the extremely talented Ruhi!! Well done Kim on an absolutely gripping and addictive read!! Absolutely loved meeting Zoe Storm and was landed when I realised it was just the first book in a new series from you. This book is extremely well written with beautiful descriptions that completely drew me in. The synopsis and the cover match the storyline perfectly!!

I am going to start my review a bit different to how I normally start them. Do you know when you found THAT AUTHOR, you know THAT ONE, and THAT AUTHOR has written THAT series that you absolutely LOVE with everything you have, from the characters, to the storylines. And you know when THAT author then ENDS, yep ENDS, that series and starts a NEW series. Your heart freezes, you worry, I mean what are you going to do without your favourite characters? Well, ladies and gentleman! Ruhi Choudhary did EXACTLY that. I was addicted to her absolutely fantastic 'Detective Mackenzie Price' series, if you haven't read those then WHY haven't you read them?! Anyway she then decides to take Mackenzie away from me. and I discover she has started a NEW series called 'Zoe Stone', of which this is the first book. Well, I tell myself that's great!! I cannot wait to get into it! However, how the heck am I going to love it as much as the Mackenzie series? Well, there is no chance is there? How can she even match it? Well, Ruhi what sort of magic have you got going brewing? How did you do it?? How on Earth have you created a second series JUST as amazing as your Mackenzie Price with characters that I have already become attached to? You, lady, have some incredible talent and I cannot wait to get my hands on the next book in this series!! Speaking of which, I am pleased to say that it is already available to preorder on Amazon thankfully. It is called 'Run For Her Life' and it it is going to be published on the 29th October which gives you some time to read this and also get addicted to her Mackenzie series. Congratulations Ruhi on yet ANOTHER absolute addictive masterpiece!!! If you are looking for an addictive new series to sink your teeth into with a storyline filled with crime, tension, suspense, murder, red herrings, twists, turns and so, SO much more then stop wasting your time reading what I have written when you can be reading so much better in this series and book!! Once you have finished this absolute gorgeous book, fallen in love with Ruhi and this series you are in luck as if you LOVED this book then head over to her 'Detective Mackenzie Price' series where you will meet another group of amazing characters and more stunning settings while you are waiting for 'Run For Her Life' to be released. The characters were strong and realistic and I was completely invested in them from beginning to end. Ruhi's emotive descriptions and Stephanie's fantastic narration really do work perfectly together to ensure the characters come to life in front of you and it feels like you are right next to them throughout the book feeling and seeing everything that they are. It is also one of those fantastic books where you question yourself about the characters constantly not knowing whether you believe them or not and still I was shocked by the ending!

This book an absolutely gorgeous, addictive and explosive introduction to what absolutely promises to be another amazing, addictive and EPIC new series! However, I cannot say I am surprised as I have absolutely loved each book I have read by this amazing author. I do not even bother reading the synopsis of Ruhi's books before I start reading as I know I will love it whatever the back says!! I absolutely fell in love with the characters, the storyline and just absolutely everything about this book when I started reading it. Words are not even enough to express how much I love Ruhi's books and how devastated I am to come to the end of each one and have to say Goodbye to these amazing characters. This amazing book has shot to my favourite book of the year and when you read it I am sure you will feel the same. I could go on forever about this amazing book but you just HAVE to read this EPIC page turner yourself!!! The fact that Ruhi truly does care for these amazing characters leaps out of the pages in their incredible character development and her evocative descriptions!! You truly cannot ask for a better book filled with exceptional characters!! The location , characters, descriptions are all just absolutely brilliant with Ruhi's evocative writing skills and Stephanie's amazing narrative bringing absolutely everything and everyone to life right in front of the readers eyes!! This book is fantastically written and had me hooked from the first page until the last! There was so much going on in this book that it doesn't give you a minute to get bored, or able you to put the book down!!! I gave up counting how many times I told myself one more chapter just to HAVE to know what happened next as this happened over and over until I ended up devouring the whole book in one sitting!!!

WARNING ⚠ DO NOT START THIS UNTIL YOU HAVE CLEARED YOUR SCHEDULES AS THIS BOOK IS ADDICTIVE!!!!

Congratulations Ruhi on yet another huge success!!! I cannot wait to get stuck into more of your books and this is exactly why you are on my favourite author list !! Here is to your next guaranteed success 🥂!!

Overall YET AGAIN, another absolutely addictive, heart racing and unputdownable crime thriller by Ruhi and an absolutely explosive start to this new and addictive series that will keep you up all night.

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This audiobook was a fairly standard crime thriller that, while not unenjoyable, didn't leave a lasting impression on me.

The story introduces FBI agent Zoe Storm as she investigates a series of child murders in a small Washington town. The plot moves quickly enough to hold your attention for an evening; however, I didn’t find the mystery especially compelling or unique. I finished it about a week ago, and to be 100% frank, I can’t even remember how it ended now. In other words, not super memorable.

It's not a bad book by any means, though! Don't let me give that impression.

The narration was serviceable, and the pacing was consistent. As I said, a pleasant enough way to kill time on a rainy evening.

I wouldn’t go out of my way to read more from the author, though I wouldn’t actively avoid her books either. If you’re looking for an average, undemanding crime story to pass the time, it definitely gets the job done. Just don’t expect it to stand out from the crowd.

The Hanging Doll.... such an amazing book. Great narrator and superb storyline.
I Absolutly loved it!

Lily Baker’s body is discovered in the woods, her tiny hands laid gently across her lap. Special Agent Zoe Storm is determined to stop a possible serial killer before more lives are taken.

The pacing and suspense were spot-on, and the story had me hooked from the start. Zoe Storm has her flaws, but she’s sharp, determined, and exactly the kind of character I want to follow in more books. The investigation was twisty in all the right ways. I was invested from start to finish and can’t wait for the next book in the series.

The narration was fantastic. Stephanie Cannon was amazing, as always.

Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture Audio for the complimentary audio copy.

The dual storylines keep you hooked, and the well-developed characters give you insight into why she joined the FBI. You'll definitely want to follow the agent's story in the next installment.

Ruhi Choudhary created a setting and dynamic between characters that had me fully invested in The Hanging Dolls! The characters were all very likeable but with a bit of an edge. This seems to be the first book of a series, so I will definitely be keeping track of Choudhary's releases, I want to know how these characters and the relationships between them develop!

I loved the FMC, Zoe. It was a breath of fresh air to find a complex, confident female main character who is fun and doesn't take herself too seriously. The way more of her backstory developed alongside the main plot kept me intrigued and wanting more!

The twists were unexpected and the motives felt original, causing the audience to reflect on some of the ways childhood trauma may impact throughout life.

The narrator brought the characters to life, kept me engaged with the story and the narration and production were perfectly paced.

The Hanging Dolls was a brilliant take on a detective novel that took a lot of risks, kept me hooked and made me want to read more of the author's work!

So excited to receive a new crime series audio featuring FBI agent Zoe Storm and her partner Dr Aidan Wesley. Zoe’s troubled childhood has her wanting to help others

The opening chapter had me wanting more and didn’t disappoint. It started with child abduction in the woods. Can’t wait for the next case

Thank you to Netgalley and Bookoutre Audio

This is my first book by Ruhi and it definitely won’t be my last. I love Zoe’s character. There’s so much depth to her. She’s more than just a Special Agent and we get only a taste of her past in this book. Zoe’s mind works in unique ways and she comes to conclusions quicker than some of her coworkers. I love that dynamic in police forces.

I listened to this one primarily on audio and I flew through it in only a day. Stephanie’s portrayal of Zoe really made me connect with her.

Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for my copies of this book.

**Review of "The Hanging Dolls" by Ruhi Choudhary**

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

"The Hanging Dolls" by Ruhi Choudhary is a masterfully crafted novel that captivates from the very first page. Choudhary’s writing style is both lyrical and haunting, perfectly complementing the dark themes explored within the story.

The plot revolves around intriguing characters whose lives intertwine in unexpected ways, creating a tapestry of suspense and emotion. The author’s ability to weave intricate backstories adds depth, making each character relatable and layered. I found myself completely invested in their journeys, often reflecting on the moral dilemmas they faced.

One of the standout aspects of the book is its atmospheric setting. Choudhary paints vivid pictures with her words, immersing readers into a world that feels both familiar and unsettling. The symbolism of the hanging dolls serves as a powerful metaphor throughout the narrative, leaving readers contemplating its meaning long after they’ve finished the book.

The pacing is expertly handled, with twists that keep you on the edge of your seat. Just when you think you've figured everything out, Choudhary throws in a curveball that changes your perspective entirely. It’s a thrilling ride that I simply could not put down!

Overall, "The Hanging Dolls" is an extraordinary read that combines psychological depth with engaging storytelling. It has certainly earned its place on my favorites list, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone who enjoys thought-provoking fiction with a touch of mystery. Ruhi Choudhary is undoubtedly a talent to watch!

Special Agent Zoe Storm is on the team, trying to track down the person who is kidnapping little girls and taking their lives, destroying the families by doing so. Can Zoe stop him before he kills again?

Zoe is strong. She's smart and takes in all the little details around her. Zoe's own mother was killed when she was younger, and she's been on the hunt for her killer ever since. She went through a lot growing up, and wants to help protect others from having to go through similar traumatic experiences.
I loved the twists and turns in this story, there were a couple of plot twists (including the main one) that I just didn't see coming that really got me!
This was the first time listening to one of Ruhi's books, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The voice actor was also really easy and enjoyable to listen to. Will definitely be looking for more from her. Thank you Ruhi, and Netgalley, for the opportunity to listen to this audiobook arc.

Thank you Netgalley, Bookouture Audio and Ruhi Choudhary for the audio Arc of The Hanging Dolls.
Narrated by Stephanie Cannon

The Hanging Dolls is Book 1 of Zoe Storm series and also the first book of Ruhi's that Ive read. Within the first few chapters I was drawn in by both the plot, the tension and the pacing of the book. The scenes of murder and the apparent signs that Zoe Storm and her crew were dealing with a serial killer were both chilling and well described. I found all the characters of The Hanging Dolls both interesting and felt real, flawed and well built including the profile of the killer.

The whole pacing of the book was medium and felt pretty constant throughout. Definitely an engaging plot line, which has been left on a cliffhanger and sets up very nicely for the second book!! I can't wait to see more of Zoe Storm and the next instalment of these books.

Stephanie Cannon did a brilliant job narrating this book. Her voice is haunting, building the tension alongside the narrative of the book.

4.5 for story graph. 5 stars for other websites

Thank you Netgalley for the copy of this audiobook. I was gripped from start to finish. The twists and turns. The mystery. I adored it. I look forward to reading more from this author.

The Hanging Dolls by Rubi Choudhary is a haunting and emotionally charged thriller that explores the darkest corners of human nature through the tragic lens of missing and murdered children. With a deeply unsettling premise and a narrative that doesn’t shy away from the grim details, this novel grips readers from the start and refuses to let go.

Choudhary’s writing is both chilling and compassionate, capturing the horror of the crimes while honoring the emotional weight behind them. The fear and grief felt throughout the story are palpable, and the atmosphere is thick with tension, dread, and sorrow. As the mystery unfolds, the disturbing truths at the heart of the story come to light in a twisted and unforgettable climax.

The Hanging Dolls is not only a gripping crime thriller but also a stark reminder of the fragility of innocence. Rubi Choudhary has crafted a story that is equal parts heartbreaking and horrifying—an unsettling, powerful read that lingers long after the final page.

Let me start by saying, for this being the first book in a series, I can easily see this becoming a favorite! The prologue hooked me, intrigued me, and pulled me in emotionally. And that ending? WHOA! I immediately had to see when the second book would release.
I read the book and listened to the audiobook - Stephanie Cannon, the narrator, did an excellent job heightening the tension and suspense, maintaining it throughout!

This is the first book I’ve read from the author and I’m so super excited for what she writes next!

If you enjoy FBI based characters and/or police procedurals or are just looking for a good thriller in general, I highly recommend checking out this FOUR STAR read! This was just released July 30th, 2025 and is free to read for Kindle Unlimited members.

Thank you NetGalley, Ruhi Choudhary, Bookouture and Bookouture Audio for the opportunity to enjoy this chilling story in exchange for a review.

Fast paced and lots of twists. This was an edge of your seat thriller that had you questioning everyone’s motives. The children taken and their circumstances was heartbreaking. The main character is struggling with her own unanswered questions about her past while trying to figure out how these girls are connected. The way things come together I would have never guessed. Definitely seems like this will be an exciting series to continue.

Ruhi Choudhary’s The Hanging Dolls was quite a trip! It was a psychological thriller with side adventures and a second thriller thrown in for fun. In other words, there was never a dull moment from the time that I picked up the book until I finished it (in the same sitting).

When an elementary school girl goes missing in the middle of the day when out with her sister in a small town, the whole town is worried and does all that they can to find her, including calling in the FBI.

Special Agent Zoe Storm is one of those tasked to help, but she comes with unique baggage of her own. Zoe has never known who her father was, and why her mom took her own life at such a young age.

Zoe’s assigned partner, Dr. Aiden Wesley, seems to have a hidden agenda when working with Zoe. He seems to not only be helping with the current case assigned to them, but also seems to be assessing Zoe for fitness for duty. This digging into Zoe’s psyche and finding out about her hidden hobbies and childhood allows us to get to know the characters at a much deeper level.

This book was unputdownable! You need to grab yourself a copy. It’s setting the scene for more, and I am here for it!!

Thank you so much to NetGalley and Bookouture Audio for the fantastic audio ARC!!

After 2 years of working deep undercover, FBI agent Zoe Storm is called to a small town to investigate the murder of a child. As the thrills and suspense commence we are taken into a journey of sub plots around the death of Zoe’s mom when she was a child. There are many layers to this character and I enjoyed her complexity. I found her easily likable and my interest peaked to know more.

The story is filled with intrigue and suspense that kept me listening in every free moment I had. I will definitely read more from this author.

I found the narration okay, although the narrator lacked good character differentiation with the male characters. It was difficult to distinguish who was speaking.

Overall, I found this a good, solid suspense thriller. Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the arc.

🎧Audio Book Review🎧

The Hanging Dolls
Ruhi Choudhary

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

This is my second read by this author and although I loved His Last Wife, I think I enjoyed this read even more.

This book forms the start of a brand new detective series featuring Special Agent Zoe Storm - and I've noticed that book two is already showing and planned for release in October - I'm not sure I can wait that long!!

I was instantly drawn into this storyline and into Zoe's life.
Sent out on a case with her partner Aiden Wesley, where the body of a child is found staged in the woods. There's a note too and the pair need to work with the police of this small community to prevent more little girls going missing.

With books in this genre, we often find a jaded detective with a long and tough backstory.
Zoe was such a refreshing character to explore and it was great to see her own personal backstory incorporated into the main storyline so naturally.
Zoe is totally dedicated to her case and to keeping the girls safe but we're also fed little snippets of her own childhood and the mysterious circumstances of her own mother's death years ago.

I loved the relationship and working dynamic that Zoe and Aiden had. Starting off pretty frosty, but definitely thawing through the book.
I'm keen to see how this will manifest through the series.

This particular case however, was a complex one with a fair few suspects discovered along the way.
I tried to work through the clues and make my own theories, but I had no clue who was responsible and even when the reveal did come, it was such a shock.

The writing style had a great way of drawing you in and even though it wasn't super fast paced, there was always something going on to keep the story moving forward and this keeping me hooked right to the last page.

Talking of which.....what a maddening cliffhanger we are left on!
I was fully satisfied and ready for more in book 2 - then came that epilogue!
Not I honestly cannot wait to get my hands on the second book asap!

Brilliantly plotted and well written - I loved this book and am excited to follow this series to it's end.....




💕Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for my ARC copy - this is my honest review 💕

Terrible crimes, sad lives, cruelty and deception everywhere, and an addictive plot. This is a great foundation to a series, with a fabulous central character in Zoe Storm, who is certainly intriguing.