Step into the pulse-pounding world of Cutler, Sutter & Salinas, where romance and danger collide in a thrilling trilogy by Jayne Ann Krentz! This captivating series follows three foster brothers—Max Cutler, Cabot Sutter, and Jack Lancaster—as they unravel a dark past tied to a murderous cult leader, Quinton Zane, while finding love in the most unexpected places. With its blend of heart-racing suspense, steamy romance, and a touch of paranormal intrigue, this series is a must-read for fans of romantic thrillers.
Krentz, a New York Times bestselling author, weaves a tale of resilience and redemption, where each brother’s journey is as much about healing old wounds as it is about catching a villain. Ready to dive into a world where trust is hard-won and love is transformative? Let’s explore this gripping saga!
How Cutler, Sutter & Salinas Began
Jayne Ann Krentz, known for her mastery across romance subgenres, crafted the Cutler, Sutter & Salinas series under her real name, focusing on contemporary romantic suspense. Inspired by her love for strong heroines and complex heroes, Krentz introduced the trilogy in 2016 with When All the Girls Have Gone. The series centers on the three men saved as children by Sheriff Anson Salinas from a fire set by the cult leader Quinton Zane. Krentz’s signature style—blending mystery, romance, and a hint of the supernatural—shines through, drawing readers into a world where past traumas fuel present-day quests for justice.
The Heart of Cutler, Sutter & Salinas
The trilogy kicks off with When All the Girls Have Gone, where private investigator Max Cutler teams up with Charlotte Sawyer to solve a murder tied to Zane’s lingering influence. The second book, Promise Not to Tell, follows Cabot Sutter and gallery owner Virginia Troy as they uncover secrets through haunting paintings, deepening the cult’s dark history. The finale, Untouchable, features Jack Lancaster, a cold-case investigator with lucid dreaming abilities, partnering with hypnotist Winter Meadows to confront Zane himself. Each novel delivers a standalone romance while advancing the overarching hunt for justice.
The series shines with themes of resilience, trust, and the healing power of connection. The brothers, scarred by their childhood loss, struggle with intimacy yet find solace in strong, empathetic women who match their tenacity. Set in atmospheric locales like Seattle and Eclipse Bay, Oregon, the stories blend fast-paced investigations with a paranormal flair—think lucid dreams and hypnotic talents. Krentz’s formulaic yet engaging style keeps readers hooked, though some note the romance in Untouchable feels understated compared to the suspense.
Why Cutler, Sutter & Salinas Resonates
The Cutler, Sutter & Salinas series has carved a niche in romantic suspense, praised for its balance of high-stakes mystery and emotional depth. Fans on Goodreads, with over 25,000 ratings averaging 4.0, celebrate Krentz’s ability to craft compelling characters and page-turning plots. The trilogy’s exploration of trauma and redemption resonates deeply, offering hope that love can mend even the deepest scars. Its subtle paranormal elements also appeal to readers craving a twist on traditional thrillers, cementing Krentz’s legacy as a genre innovator.
Though not as widely known as Krentz’s Arcane Society novels, the series’ loyal following appreciates its tight narrative arc and satisfying conclusion. It’s a testament to Krentz’s skill that even a lesser-known trilogy feels so vivid and immersive, making it a hidden gem for new readers to discover.
- Publication Years: 2016–2019
- Number of Books: 3
- Genres: Romantic suspense, paranormal romance
- Notable Praise: “A satisfying, fast-paced end to Krentz’s arsonist series” — People
Grab When All the Girls Have Gone and dive into the electrifying world of Cutler, Sutter & Salinas! Whether you’re chasing thrills or swooning over hard-won love, this trilogy delivers a heart-pounding adventure you won’t forget.