Jar of Hearts

* Winner - Best Novel, ITW Thriller Award * Authors on the Air Network - Thriller of the Year * Finalist - Anthony Award for Best Novel * Finalist - Macavity Award for Best Novel *

An explosive, edge-of-your-seat read about three friends, one murder, and a whole world of secrets...

Angela was one of the most popular girls in her high school before she disappeared without a trace. Nobody ever knew what became of her--not Georgina, her best friend, nor Kaiser, who was close with both girls. Then, fourteen years later, Angela's remains were discovered in the woods near Geo's childhood home and Kaiser--who became a detective with the Seattle police department--finally learned the truth: Angela was a victim of Calvin James.

To the authorities, Calvin was a notorious serial killer. But back in the day, Calvin was Geo's first love. Their relationship bordered on obsession from the moment they met, right up until the night Angela was killed. Geo carried the secret of Calvin's dark deeds until the evidence landed her in prison. But now, just as Geo is about to be released, new bodies start turning up--killed in the exact same manner as Angela. . . and soon Geo, Kaiser, and local law enforcement officials realize that what happened that fateful night is more complex and chilling than anyone could have imagined.

"Thrilling...terrifying, Jar of Hearts is definitely not something you've read before."--Cleveland Plain Dealer

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Published Jan 28, 2020

384 pages

Average rating: 7.54

474 RATINGS

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Paging All Readers

Paging all Readers is an Onslow County Public Library online book club. We enjoy reading a variety of genres but have a preference for thrillers.

Letters On Paper

Hello! If you are looking for a fun, welcoming, laid back diverse club that love to chat about books and other random nonsense, JOIN US!

Between the Covers

“For all the bookish baddies with a thrill for thrillers, a taste for romance, and a craving for fantastical adventures—this one’s for you.”

Community Reviews

The.readrose
Jan 28, 2026
8/10 stars
4.5 Stars
I was completely enthralled in this story. Granted, I did guess a few twists in the story, but I didn’t even mind. I thoroughly enjoyed this story, the writing was fantastic, and it had a decent amount of f*cked up moments. For those of you who are Karin Slaughter fans, it’s not on her level of disturbing, but it wasn’t mild. I approve.
I definitely think y’all should pick up this book, even if you are a thriller veteran like myself. If you are, the twists may not be out-of-this-world, but the characters and backstory were superb.
K Olson
Jan 14, 2025
6/10 stars
This was my first Jennifer Hillier book and while it was a well written thriller, it will probably be my last of hers as the graphic violence/sexual assaults were over the top for me. I found myself skimming those parts and unlike other reviewers I didn’t think they were necessary. The plot was well paced and the twists were believable.
jbatey
Sep 01, 2024
7/10 stars
Holy crap! What a wild ride!
DaizyGrl
Apr 25, 2022
9/10 stars
Loved it. Didn't see the ending coming. Crazy but good
Mary Pat Holt
Feb 05, 2026
8/10 stars
Whoa, this book is not for the squeamish. It has all kinds of dark and disturbing themes (murder, dismemberment, rape, attempted rape) but I couldn't stop reading.

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