"The Ones They Buried," the eighth installment in Jennifer Ruff's Agent Victoria Heslin series, offers readers another intriguing mystery to unravel. While it maintains the series' signature suspense and intricate plotlines, it falls short of reaching the heights of some of its predecessors. I think there as too much POV from the other characters and what happened in the past. This slowed the pace a little. The novel opens with the mysterious disappearance of fitness star Phoebe Watson and quickly draws readers into the web of intrigue surrounding her case. Ruff excels at creating a palpable sense of tension and keeps the narrative moving at a brisk pace, making it difficult to put the book down. The premise of linking Phoebe's murder to the life-altering accident of multi-millionaire Catherine Bower is promising and adds depth to the storyline. Special Agent Victoria Heslin continues to be a compelling protagonist, with her determination and sharp investigative skills driving the narrative forward. Ruff's writing style remains engaging, and her ability to craft complex characters and intricate mysteries is evident. However, "The Ones They Buried" doesn't quite reach the heights of its predecessors in the series. While the plot is gripping, it occasionally becomes convoluted, making it challenging to keep track of all the threads and characters involved. Additionally, some readers might find the resolution of the mystery somewhat predictable, and the shock value falls short of expectations set by earlier books in the series. Despite these shortcomings, Jennifer Ruff's storytelling prowess shines through, and fans of the Agent Victoria Heslin series will still find much to enjoy in this installment. "The Ones They Buried" is a solid addition to the series, offering a decent mystery with engaging characters. While it may not be the standout installment, it's a worthwhile read for those who have followed Victoria Heslin's investigative adventures. It can also be read as a standalone, as there wasn’t much of a look at Victoria’s personal life. Thanks to Ms Ruff, Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for an honest review