Every once in a while, a psychological thriller comes along that refuses to follow the rules.

It doesn't rely on cheap jump scares. It doesn't hand readers easy answers. It challenges them to think, question, and second-guess every page until the final chapter.

LIPS is that novel.

From psychological thriller author Carter Vale, LIPS is a gripping legal thriller that explores justice, corruption, obsession, and the terrifying intelligence of a killer who always seems to be one step ahead.

A New Kind of Legal Thriller

Most legal thrillers begin in the courtroom.

LIPS begins long before justice ever has a chance.

When two victims are discovered in an upscale Toronto condominium, investigators believe they are looking at an isolated homicide. But one chilling detail changes everything. The victims' lips have been meticulously painted crimson.

As investigators search for answers, brilliant young attorney Jennifer Glowski begins to recognize a pattern no one else sees.

The deeper the investigation goes, the more disturbing the truth becomes.

Someone has been hiding in plain sight.

And the justice system may have unknowingly protected them for years.

Built for Readers Who Love Intelligent Suspense

If you're a fan of:

• Psychological thrillers
• Legal suspense
• Serial killer mysteries
• Crime fiction
• Smart female protagonists
• Dark investigative fiction

...then LIPS belongs on your reading list. (TBR)

Every chapter has been crafted to reward observant readers, blending courtroom strategy, criminal psychology, and relentless suspense into a story that stays with you.

Why Early Readers Matter

Every successful novel begins with readers willing to discover it before the rest of the world.

Early supporters play a critical role in helping new books gain momentum by:

• Reading Advance Review Copies (ARCs)
• Leaving honest reviews
• Sharing the book with fellow thriller fans
• Recommending it across social media and book communities
• Helping introduce new readers to independent authors

Word of mouth remains one of the most powerful marketing tools in publishing. One recommendation can introduce a story to thousands of future readers.

Help Build the Next Great Psychological Thriller

We're inviting passionate thriller readers to become part of the LIPS launch team.

By joining our community, you'll receive exclusive updates, behind-the-scenes content, launch announcements, giveaways, and opportunities to read future releases before they're available to the public.

Whether you're an avid reader, reviewer, book blogger, Bookstagram creator, BookTok enthusiast, or simply someone who loves discovering exceptional thrillers before everyone else, we'd love to have you with us.

Join the Movement

The launch of LIPS is more than the release of a new novel.

It's the beginning of a growing community of readers who appreciate intelligent suspense, unforgettable characters, and stories that refuse to let go.

If you believe great books deserve to be discovered, this is your opportunity to help shape the journey from launch to bestseller.

Join the mailing list today, follow Carter Vale on social media, and be among the first to experience the thriller readers won't stop talking about.

The next great psychological legal thriller is almost here.

Will you be one of the readers who discovers it first?