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Burning Cove #2
The Other Lady Vanishes
The New York Times bestselling author of The Girl Who Knew Too Much sweeps readers back to 1930s California--where the most dazzling of illusions can't hide the darkest secrets...
After escaping from a private sanitarium, Adelaide Blake arrives in Burning Cove, California, desperate to start over.
Working at an herbal tea shop puts her on the radar of those who frequent the seaside resort town: Hollywood movers and shakers always in need of hangover cures and tonics. One such customer is Jake Truett, a recently widowed businessman in town for a therapeutic rest. But unbeknownst to Adelaide, his exhaustion is just a cover.
In Burning Cove, no one is who they seem. Behind facades of glamour and power hide drug dealers, gangsters, and grifters. Into this make-believe world comes psychic to the stars Madame Zolanda. Adelaide and Jake know better than to fall for her kind of con. But when the medium becomes a victim of her own dire prediction and is killed, they'll be drawn into a murky world of duplicity and misdirection.
Neither Adelaide or Jake can predict that in the shadowy underground they'll find connections to the woman Adelaide used to be--and uncover the specter of a killer who's been real all along...
After escaping from a private sanitarium, Adelaide Blake arrives in Burning Cove, California, desperate to start over.
Working at an herbal tea shop puts her on the radar of those who frequent the seaside resort town: Hollywood movers and shakers always in need of hangover cures and tonics. One such customer is Jake Truett, a recently widowed businessman in town for a therapeutic rest. But unbeknownst to Adelaide, his exhaustion is just a cover.
In Burning Cove, no one is who they seem. Behind facades of glamour and power hide drug dealers, gangsters, and grifters. Into this make-believe world comes psychic to the stars Madame Zolanda. Adelaide and Jake know better than to fall for her kind of con. But when the medium becomes a victim of her own dire prediction and is killed, they'll be drawn into a murky world of duplicity and misdirection.
Neither Adelaide or Jake can predict that in the shadowy underground they'll find connections to the woman Adelaide used to be--and uncover the specter of a killer who's been real all along...
349 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 8, 2018
About the author
Amanda Quick
124 books5,316 followersPseudonym of Jayne Ann Krentz
The author of over 40 consecutive New York Times bestsellers, JAYNE ANN KRENTZ writes romantic-suspense, often with a psychic and paranormal twist, in three different worlds: Contemporary (as Jayne Ann Krentz), historical (as Amanda Quick) and futuristic (as Jayne Castle). There are over 30 million copies of her books in print.
She earned a B.A. in History from the University of California at Santa Cruz and went on to obtain a Masters degree in Library Science from San Jose State University in California. Before she began writing full time she worked as a librarian in both academic and corporate libraries.
Ms. Krentz is married and lives with her husband, Frank, in Seattle, Washington.
Pseudonym(s):
Jayne Ann Krentz
Jayne Castle
Stephanie James
Jayne Bentley
Jayne Taylor
Amanda Glass
The author of over 40 consecutive New York Times bestsellers, JAYNE ANN KRENTZ writes romantic-suspense, often with a psychic and paranormal twist, in three different worlds: Contemporary (as Jayne Ann Krentz), historical (as Amanda Quick) and futuristic (as Jayne Castle). There are over 30 million copies of her books in print.
She earned a B.A. in History from the University of California at Santa Cruz and went on to obtain a Masters degree in Library Science from San Jose State University in California. Before she began writing full time she worked as a librarian in both academic and corporate libraries.
Ms. Krentz is married and lives with her husband, Frank, in Seattle, Washington.
Pseudonym(s):
Jayne Ann Krentz
Jayne Castle
Stephanie James
Jayne Bentley
Jayne Taylor
Amanda Glass
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 769 reviews
August 4, 2019
Another fabulous read from the amazingly talented Amanda Quick!!! I adore her romance mysteries and her burning cove series has all her trade mark suspense and great action.Jake and Adelaide make a great couple and their chemistry is a slow sensual burn. I always love her characters,even the villian's. As in true Amanda Quick fashion it's a true whodunit right to the very end and just when you think it's all wrapped up, out of the shadows comes the master mind to throw you for a loop ! I've been hooked on Amanda Quick books for years,and she never lets me down! She's a great storyteller and writers a great read everytime. Until next time luv's💖💋
March 11, 2019
The strength of this one was much more the romance than the mystery and suspense elements of the plot. I didn't like this one as much as I did the first novel in the series, but I am interested in reading the third book. These are pretty light, easy reads and I do like the whole 1930s town near Hollywood setting.
This is the second book in the Burning Cove series but can easily be read as a standalone. However, some characters from the first book make appearances in this one so your reading experience is enhanced a bit if you start at the beginning.
Adelaide Blake is working at an herbal tea shop in the seaside resort town of Burning Cove. She came to town a few months ago having just escaped from a mental institution. She doesn't want to be found which is why she is going by a different name. Given she witnessed something horrific right before she escaped, starting over seems like her best option. But some people have different plans for Adelaide and she's going to have to figure out a way to outsmart the ones who want to silence her. Maybe the handsome widower Jake Truett who is a customer at the tea shop can help Adelaide. (wink, wink)
I was way more invested in the Adelaide/Jake storyline rather than her past and everything related to the sanatorium. It was too far-fetched for me although to be fair a book like this isn't really meant to be analysed to death. I do wish though it would have been more of a cheesy but fun read rather than veering into cheesy bad territory. Even though I didn't care for this one as much as the first book, I still like the concept of the series and how Burning Cove is this place where women go to escape their pasts and hopefully move on to a brighter future. Will definitely check out the third book as the series has a little bit of everything I enjoy including mystery, romance, and Old Hollywood glitz and glam.
This is the second book in the Burning Cove series but can easily be read as a standalone. However, some characters from the first book make appearances in this one so your reading experience is enhanced a bit if you start at the beginning.
Adelaide Blake is working at an herbal tea shop in the seaside resort town of Burning Cove. She came to town a few months ago having just escaped from a mental institution. She doesn't want to be found which is why she is going by a different name. Given she witnessed something horrific right before she escaped, starting over seems like her best option. But some people have different plans for Adelaide and she's going to have to figure out a way to outsmart the ones who want to silence her. Maybe the handsome widower Jake Truett who is a customer at the tea shop can help Adelaide. (wink, wink)
I was way more invested in the Adelaide/Jake storyline rather than her past and everything related to the sanatorium. It was too far-fetched for me although to be fair a book like this isn't really meant to be analysed to death. I do wish though it would have been more of a cheesy but fun read rather than veering into cheesy bad territory. Even though I didn't care for this one as much as the first book, I still like the concept of the series and how Burning Cove is this place where women go to escape their pasts and hopefully move on to a brighter future. Will definitely check out the third book as the series has a little bit of everything I enjoy including mystery, romance, and Old Hollywood glitz and glam.
May 9, 2023
The Other Lady Vanishes by Amanda Quick
Burning Cove series #2. Historical romantic mystery. 1930’s. Can be read as a stand-alone.
Adelaide escaped from a private sanitarium where she was being held as a prisoner by her supposed husband. The doctors used an experimental drug on her as a test subject. Adelaide travels to Burning Cove to hide where she works in a tea shop. She meets Jake Truett, who says he’s in town to rest, but that’s not all he’s there for. When psychic Madame Zolanda is killed, Adelaide and Jake are pulled into an underground world of shadows and danger.
Intriguing with deception and twists to lead the reader in several directions as the story unfolds.
I enjoyed the mystery as I realized that it was connected to the first book and understood a bit more. This story did conclude but there are still some questions. I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
Burning Cove series #2. Historical romantic mystery. 1930’s. Can be read as a stand-alone.
Adelaide escaped from a private sanitarium where she was being held as a prisoner by her supposed husband. The doctors used an experimental drug on her as a test subject. Adelaide travels to Burning Cove to hide where she works in a tea shop. She meets Jake Truett, who says he’s in town to rest, but that’s not all he’s there for. When psychic Madame Zolanda is killed, Adelaide and Jake are pulled into an underground world of shadows and danger.
Intriguing with deception and twists to lead the reader in several directions as the story unfolds.
I enjoyed the mystery as I realized that it was connected to the first book and understood a bit more. This story did conclude but there are still some questions. I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
April 14, 2018
I first thought that I would start off this review stating that reading Amanda Quick is a guilty pleasure of mine. Then, I thought that I'm not at all guilty about it, vice versa to be honest. However, Quick's books are definitely a pleasure to read.
THE OTHER LADY VANISHES is the second book in the Burning Cove series, but there are no problems reading this one without having read the first book. Sure, there are people from the first book that shows up in this story as well, but the main story, about Adelaide Blake, is definitely a standalone one.
READ THE REST OF THE REVIEW OVER AT FRESH FICTION!
THE OTHER LADY VANISHES is the second book in the Burning Cove series, but there are no problems reading this one without having read the first book. Sure, there are people from the first book that shows up in this story as well, but the main story, about Adelaide Blake, is definitely a standalone one.
READ THE REST OF THE REVIEW OVER AT FRESH FICTION!
September 17, 2019
This is second in a series but you can comfortably start here if you like. Further, starting here probably won't spoil the first one much. I still recommend reading them in order, but that's a personal preference for going in order.
This is much like the first as the setting and many characters are carried over. The mystery plot isn't quite as good. It centers around a remarkable, fictional drug that has some real-world analogs, but only barely. Since nothing like it exists in reality, the story more closely resembles some of Quick's paranormal novels (Arcane Society, for example) and that disappointed me a bit. The plot holds together just fine if you give it the existence of the drug but I still resent the need to do so.
And I took a bit to warm to Adelaide, mostly because she was so desperate in the beginning that I feared a more damselly heroine than we had in the first story. She turned out much better than those expectations, however, so it didn't take long for me to fully engage in the story. Plus, Jake is really awesome (but then, with a name like that...)
I also liked the side semi-romance with Raina and Luther going on through this story. I figured they'd star in this one and am surprised they aren't the next, either. It makes me wonder what Quick is up to with those two. It's handled well-enough that I wouldn't mind if they just feature as side-characters throughout the series. But I kinda want a story of their own, even so.
Anyway, another strong showing in what is quickly (heh) becoming my favorite series by the author. Two really strong stories so far and I really hope she can keep up the pace. I'm going to call this one 4½ stars, mostly because the plot relied so heavily on an unlikely drug. I'm rounding up, though, because everything else was just about perfect.
A note about Steamy: There were two explicit sex scenes, but they were both pretty short so this is still the lower end of my steam tolerance. Plus, bonus points for bringing in condoms this time. I've never heard of a "tin of condoms" before, but that sounds like it might have actually been a thing. Truth told, I'm a little scared to search the internets for details...
This is much like the first as the setting and many characters are carried over. The mystery plot isn't quite as good. It centers around a remarkable, fictional drug that has some real-world analogs, but only barely. Since nothing like it exists in reality, the story more closely resembles some of Quick's paranormal novels (Arcane Society, for example) and that disappointed me a bit. The plot holds together just fine if you give it the existence of the drug but I still resent the need to do so.
And I took a bit to warm to Adelaide, mostly because she was so desperate in the beginning that I feared a more damselly heroine than we had in the first story. She turned out much better than those expectations, however, so it didn't take long for me to fully engage in the story. Plus, Jake is really awesome (but then, with a name like that...)
I also liked the side semi-romance with Raina and Luther going on through this story. I figured they'd star in this one and am surprised they aren't the next, either. It makes me wonder what Quick is up to with those two. It's handled well-enough that I wouldn't mind if they just feature as side-characters throughout the series. But I kinda want a story of their own, even so.
Anyway, another strong showing in what is quickly (heh) becoming my favorite series by the author. Two really strong stories so far and I really hope she can keep up the pace. I'm going to call this one 4½ stars, mostly because the plot relied so heavily on an unlikely drug. I'm rounding up, though, because everything else was just about perfect.
A note about Steamy: There were two explicit sex scenes, but they were both pretty short so this is still the lower end of my steam tolerance. Plus, bonus points for bringing in condoms this time. I've never heard of a "tin of condoms" before, but that sounds like it might have actually been a thing. Truth told, I'm a little scared to search the internets for details...
February 10, 2018
Reviewed for herding cats & burning soup. (posting to blog 5/8/18)
Amazon: http://amzn.to/2EcOK06
It's Amanda Quick. You know it's gonna be fantastic. And it was. It really was.
The Gist: Some seriously shady shit is going down and Adelaide seems to be at the middle of it. Which is how she's found herself escaping from an insane asylum. And jumping straight into all kinds of crazing including a psychic with dire predictions, a hero with "exhausted nerves", spies, blackmail. I mean. There's a lot going on and woo boy it's one wild ride for Adelaide and Jake. Especially when they start kinda maybe having a thing for each other.
Adelaide and Jake were lovely. They have a nice sense of humor and strength to them. Both hiding some things from their pasts, both determined to survive. They're incredibly easy to like and root for.
Their romance was nice, too. They kind of fell into it but you know? Sometimes that works. And they suited each other. I enjoyed seeing them open up and working together. They just made me smile. It's fairly pg but not entirely.
And things didn't skimp on the suspense side. These two don't get much of a break as they confront their individual demons. But thankfully with the other by their side to give them strength they deal with everything thrown in their paths. Danger every which way, some twists and surprises, a dangerous drug and those trying to spread it around. The ties it had to both of their lives. It was exciting and kept things moving along nicely.
All in all, like I said. It was Amanda Quick. You just cannot go wrong when you grab one of her books. The Other Lady Vanishes had it all. Suspense, romance, the glamour of Hollywood and a peek at it's dark underbelly. Book 3 can't get here quickly enough.
March 1, 2022
4.5 stars
January 22, 2019
Well that...was not great. I should give up on Amanda Quick books, but I keep giving them chances even though the years have proven that her books just don't do it for me. The characters felt one-dimensional, the romance was very bland, the mystery and intrigue were sub-par, and the one redeeming quality that I found in the book was its fast pacing. It was slightly good for passing the time, but it just did not cut it.
May 25, 2018
The whole escape from the insane asylum thing was interesting but I found the romance a bit underwhelming which is a bad sign when it comes to Amanda's books, her characters usually manage to grip me from the very start.
On the other hand, Raina and Luther make a big appearance and they are supporting characters. I assume their book is the next? Speaking of Raina, I have to sound bitchy once again and say that I was let down by her character as well. In the prequel she was this butt kicking and mysterious secretary who ended the book with a bang but here she was... meh?
Well, if there happens to be a sequel, I'll definitely check it out.
On the other hand, Raina and Luther make a big appearance and they are supporting characters. I assume their book is the next? Speaking of Raina, I have to sound bitchy once again and say that I was let down by her character as well. In the prequel she was this butt kicking and mysterious secretary who ended the book with a bang but here she was... meh?
Well, if there happens to be a sequel, I'll definitely check it out.
April 29, 2018
I've not read anything by this author before and wasn't aware that it's part of a series. It was done quite well as a stand-alone. It was like watching a black and white noir film, Ms. Quick did an excellent job with the dialog and setting for the pre-war era. I look forward to reading the next book in ”Burning Bush” series. It was a fast read, with a great plot.
I would like to thank ”First-To-Read” for the opportunity to read and review this e-galley.
I would like to thank ”First-To-Read” for the opportunity to read and review this e-galley.
May 16, 2018
The Other Lady Vanishes by Amanda Quick created a "book hangover" for me. So as soon as I finished it, I immediately went to the first page and read it again. I've been reading Ms. Krentz's books for over 30 years under all of her names and am rarely disappointed. This book was no exception.
Adelaide Blake is a strong and capable heroine who I quickly enjoyed getting to know. Her knowledge of herbs and teas in Burning Cove has made her a place at the Refresh tea shoppe. She has a "normal" life and enjoys the new friends that she has made. Jake Truett was an intriguing character as I got to know him. He's definitely had a varied career. He's also a true alpha male who will do what is necessary to protect his loved ones.
The writing was crisp and descriptive, the plot twisted and turned as more of the characters were revealed in their true evil forms. I loved the reference Ms. Quick/Krentz made to her Jayne Castle futuristic books by using a character's name from the book GHOST HUNTER in Jake's spy books and in the title of one of those books, too. I also enjoyed getting to know Raina Kirk and Luther Pell better in this one. I look forward to getting to know them even better in the next one. It's going to be a long year until the next book is released.
Adelaide Blake is a strong and capable heroine who I quickly enjoyed getting to know. Her knowledge of herbs and teas in Burning Cove has made her a place at the Refresh tea shoppe. She has a "normal" life and enjoys the new friends that she has made. Jake Truett was an intriguing character as I got to know him. He's definitely had a varied career. He's also a true alpha male who will do what is necessary to protect his loved ones.
The writing was crisp and descriptive, the plot twisted and turned as more of the characters were revealed in their true evil forms. I loved the reference Ms. Quick/Krentz made to her Jayne Castle futuristic books by using a character's name from the book GHOST HUNTER in Jake's spy books and in the title of one of those books, too. I also enjoyed getting to know Raina Kirk and Luther Pell better in this one. I look forward to getting to know them even better in the next one. It's going to be a long year until the next book is released.
February 9, 2019
3.5 Overly convoluted but good. The twist at the end actually surprised me.
May 8, 2018
The story begins as Adelaide Blake escapes a private sanitarium. Her time there was dark and Quick shared a chilling story while shedding light on experimental drugs and the practice of sending unwanted family members off to mental hospitals. Both threads were chilling and led to murder, blackmail, and betrayal.
Adelaide, the daughter of botanists, is working at a local herbal tea shop. The owner has allowed her to create special blends of tea that calm your nerves or energize you. They've become quite popular with the movers and shakers, particularly the Hollywood crowd. However, Adelaide doesn't want to draw attention to herself. Jake Truett, a retired businessman on an extended stay to calm his nerves takes an interest in her and fate has them investigating a possible murder. A romance develops between them as their snooping places them in danger.
I enjoyed the updates about characters from the first story while Quick quickly immersed us into this suspenseful tale. The romance which started as friendship was an enjoyable one as both Jack and Adelaide slowly confessed secrets and tied threads together. Both rely on new and old acquaintances to gather info and protect themselves. A lot was going on in this story, with plenty of twists, villains, and suspects. However, Quick tied it all together and kept me engaged. While I guessed early on the mastermind behind the threat, Quick added some twists that surprised me and I enjoy when that happens. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
Adelaide, the daughter of botanists, is working at a local herbal tea shop. The owner has allowed her to create special blends of tea that calm your nerves or energize you. They've become quite popular with the movers and shakers, particularly the Hollywood crowd. However, Adelaide doesn't want to draw attention to herself. Jake Truett, a retired businessman on an extended stay to calm his nerves takes an interest in her and fate has them investigating a possible murder. A romance develops between them as their snooping places them in danger.
I enjoyed the updates about characters from the first story while Quick quickly immersed us into this suspenseful tale. The romance which started as friendship was an enjoyable one as both Jack and Adelaide slowly confessed secrets and tied threads together. Both rely on new and old acquaintances to gather info and protect themselves. A lot was going on in this story, with plenty of twists, villains, and suspects. However, Quick tied it all together and kept me engaged. While I guessed early on the mastermind behind the threat, Quick added some twists that surprised me and I enjoy when that happens. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
September 11, 2018
The second book in the Burning Cove series by Amanda Quick. Adelaide Blake is imprisoned in a sanitarium and the night she escapes she discovers a murder. But she ends up in a small coastal town of Burning Cove, California. She lives quietly working at a tea shop and meets Jake Truett, a widowed businessman. When psychic to the stars, Madame Zolanda invites her to a show she invites Jake to accompany her. At the show Madame Zolanda predicts a horrible death. Adelaide and Jake work together to discover who the murderer is and to keep from being murdered themselves.
The story is set in the 1930s California. Not a setting that I read much of. In fact I usually avoid that time period. I don't really know why except that I think of the Great Depression and want to stay away of hardship stories. But I like Amanda Quick's writing. She writes in a nice clear manner and keeps the story moving. There is nothing about the depression mentioned that I remember. Anyway, I liked the story and may continue the series.
The story is set in the 1930s California. Not a setting that I read much of. In fact I usually avoid that time period. I don't really know why except that I think of the Great Depression and want to stay away of hardship stories. But I like Amanda Quick's writing. She writes in a nice clear manner and keeps the story moving. There is nothing about the depression mentioned that I remember. Anyway, I liked the story and may continue the series.
August 9, 2018
This one was just okay. It moved at a steady but very slow pace and I never really felt the passion between the main characters. It was also strangely written, with bafflingly stilted dialogue between people who refused to speak in contractions, and a ton of repetition. We must have been told a hundred times that Jake was in the Import Export business. And every time the mental hospital was mentioned it got a full recitation of the name; The Rushbrook Sanitarium. We were told over and over that Vera Westlake was the most beautiful woman in Hollywood, etc.. All very tedious to read as I slogged through this over-long book.
Over all it was a slow, plodding book with an overly convoluted plot. I didn’t really care about the characters because they never showed any emotion. They were like a couple of robots going through the story. But it was better than the previous book in the series so that’s something.
Over all it was a slow, plodding book with an overly convoluted plot. I didn’t really care about the characters because they never showed any emotion. They were like a couple of robots going through the story. But it was better than the previous book in the series so that’s something.
May 7, 2018
Reviewed for
Wit and Sin
Return to the dazzling world of Burning Cove, a place of fantasy and glamour…and also secrets and death. I fell in love with the world of Burning Cove in The Girl Who Knew Too Much and my enchantment with the town only deepened in The Other Lady Vanishes . The setting drew me in from the first; the flash of 1930s Hollywood stars meeting dirty secrets, blackmail, and murder is a potent combination. When you add in two engaging protagonists and an intriguing mystery then you know you’re in for a good time.
Heiress Adelaide Blake spent two months drugged and imprisoned in an insane asylum. When she’s finally able to escape, she makes her way to Burning Cove and finds work as a waitress. Though she’s careful, Adelaide’s true identity and knowledge of the experimental drugs that were being tested on her means she has to constantly be on her guard. She’s finally finding her feet in Burning Cove and her tea blends make her a success with locals and visiting celebrities alike. But when visiting “psychic to the stars” Madame Zolanda comes to town, Adelaide’s world is turned upside down. Madame Zolanda’s gruesome prediction sets off a chain of events that involve murder, blackmail, and drugs. Against her will, Adelaide is drawn into the mystery. And one of the few people she may be able to trust is Jake Truett, a former businessman with secrets of his own. The two of them will have to unravel a tangled web of secrets if they hope to live long enough to enjoy the new lives they’ve created for themselves.
Adelaide and Jake are two interesting, intelligent protagonists who are easy to root for. Adelaide has nerves of steel that I admired. She’s been through hell and has not only survived, but has built herself a new life from nothing. I adored her and was delighted to see her find happiness with Jake, a widower with more than a few secrets of his own. Jake is a clever, protective hero who fits Adelaide extremely well. They have solid chemistry and their romance was one you can cheer for.
There’s a lot going on in The Other Lady Vanishes , but Amanda Quick takes her time and sets the multiple stages and players up before drawing everybody in closer together. The story starts off with a bang, then slows down, building up the suspense again as the pieces of the puzzle are laid out then put together. I don’t want to say much about the mystery because that would truly ruin the fun, but I will say it’s well-crafted and engaging. By the book’s climax I definitely couldn’t put it down. My only complaint is that I finished the book wanting more Burning Cove stories. Ms. Quick has created an absolutely fascinating world and I have my fingers crossed in the hope she returns to this place and time again.
FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Return to the dazzling world of Burning Cove, a place of fantasy and glamour…and also secrets and death. I fell in love with the world of Burning Cove in The Girl Who Knew Too Much and my enchantment with the town only deepened in The Other Lady Vanishes . The setting drew me in from the first; the flash of 1930s Hollywood stars meeting dirty secrets, blackmail, and murder is a potent combination. When you add in two engaging protagonists and an intriguing mystery then you know you’re in for a good time.
Heiress Adelaide Blake spent two months drugged and imprisoned in an insane asylum. When she’s finally able to escape, she makes her way to Burning Cove and finds work as a waitress. Though she’s careful, Adelaide’s true identity and knowledge of the experimental drugs that were being tested on her means she has to constantly be on her guard. She’s finally finding her feet in Burning Cove and her tea blends make her a success with locals and visiting celebrities alike. But when visiting “psychic to the stars” Madame Zolanda comes to town, Adelaide’s world is turned upside down. Madame Zolanda’s gruesome prediction sets off a chain of events that involve murder, blackmail, and drugs. Against her will, Adelaide is drawn into the mystery. And one of the few people she may be able to trust is Jake Truett, a former businessman with secrets of his own. The two of them will have to unravel a tangled web of secrets if they hope to live long enough to enjoy the new lives they’ve created for themselves.
Adelaide and Jake are two interesting, intelligent protagonists who are easy to root for. Adelaide has nerves of steel that I admired. She’s been through hell and has not only survived, but has built herself a new life from nothing. I adored her and was delighted to see her find happiness with Jake, a widower with more than a few secrets of his own. Jake is a clever, protective hero who fits Adelaide extremely well. They have solid chemistry and their romance was one you can cheer for.
There’s a lot going on in The Other Lady Vanishes , but Amanda Quick takes her time and sets the multiple stages and players up before drawing everybody in closer together. The story starts off with a bang, then slows down, building up the suspense again as the pieces of the puzzle are laid out then put together. I don’t want to say much about the mystery because that would truly ruin the fun, but I will say it’s well-crafted and engaging. By the book’s climax I definitely couldn’t put it down. My only complaint is that I finished the book wanting more Burning Cove stories. Ms. Quick has created an absolutely fascinating world and I have my fingers crossed in the hope she returns to this place and time again.
FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
June 7, 2018
I received this book for free from Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
An escape from an insane asylum, Hollywood starlets, a psychic predicting her own death and a mysterious handsome stranger. Intrigued? If you are than you need to pick up The Other Lady Vanishes as it contains everything on that list. Adelaide Blake has escaped to Burning Cove after being held captive in an asylum, but on the night of her escape one of her tormentors was murdered. Thinking she is safe, she works in a tea shop that caters to Hollywood stars and their hangers on. However, it looks like trouble may have followed her to Burning Cove and the murderer has her in his sights.
This is the second in the Burning Cove series by Amanda Quick. However, it can easily be read as a standalone as the mystery is self-contained. If you’ve read the first book it will mean that you are familiar with some of the side characters that pop up in the story. The thread tying the series together is the location rather than an overarching story line.
The Other Lady Vanishes had two things that I love; a mystery that kept me on the hook and a good romance. The mystery aspect, although I had guessed what was going on fairly quickly still left me doubtful enough that it was exciting to read. The story also had a bit of a twist at the end that I enjoyed and didn’t see coming. As for the romance, it built through the book as the hero and heroine work together whilst hiding their mysterious pasts from one another.
Another good read from Amanda Quick, if you’re after a good mystery romance this is definitely the book for you. Although, I think I may avoid holidaying in Burning Cove, bad things seem to happen…
*ARC provided by publisher
Reviewed by Suzanne❤ ♡ Don't want to miss any of our posts? Subscribe to our blog by email! ♡ ❤
December 5, 2020
↠3-
So far, I only read Amanda Quick’s historical novels, which is the reason throughout the whole I thought I was reading a Sandra Brown book. Oops?
It’s nice to see her other non-historical books, but I think the decade it was set in lacked a lot of descriptions. I would read and forget this was set in the 1930s. The plot started interesting, but by the end, I lost most of my interest.
So far, I only read Amanda Quick’s historical novels, which is the reason throughout the whole I thought I was reading a Sandra Brown book. Oops?
It’s nice to see her other non-historical books, but I think the decade it was set in lacked a lot of descriptions. I would read and forget this was set in the 1930s. The plot started interesting, but by the end, I lost most of my interest.
Read
March 4, 20191930s Hollywood romsus. My first of this author. Well constructed plot (somewhat at the expense of the romance to my mind but YMMV) but I kind of preferred the hero of the secondary romance. Hopefully he gets a book. Atmospheric setting with an authentically Hitchcock feel in terms of abused blondes, McGuffins and implausible psychotropic.
July 1, 2018
Le romantic suspens est en passe de devenir mon genre préféré! J'ai adoré celui-ci pour son petit côté old school, son héroïne "pas si naïve que ça mais tout de même", l'intrigue tarabiscotée qui arrive à nous surprendre .. et l'époque !!!
June 12, 2018
3.5 stars
It opens with murder and a daring escape. A promising start.
Adelaide has a lot on her plate - reinvention, hiding, building a new life and taking control.
Jake Truett was supposed to be mysterious but came off as bland.
The murder methods were interesting and varied.
The romance was too convenient, almost mechanical. Book loses half a star here.
Luther Pell and Raina completely overshadowed the lead pair. They had crackling chemistry, nice quips, added anticipation and excitement to the story. I'm hoping for their sequel.
Everybody gets a chance to save the day at some point - I really liked this.
Adelaide tries to be practical and has no hopes for their relationship. This irritated Jake and made me chuckle often.
The bad guys were underwhelming and predictable. The book loses a star due to this.
Something important is hidden in plain sight. Clever.
Favorite scenes
When Jake and Adelaide need to spend a night at the auto
Moonlight road
When Luther and Raina discuss Romeo and Juliet
“You can’t live in a hotel forever.”
“Why not? You seem to be doing just fine living on top of a nightclub.”
“That’s different. I own the place.
It opens with murder and a daring escape. A promising start.
Adelaide has a lot on her plate - reinvention, hiding, building a new life and taking control.
Jake Truett was supposed to be mysterious but came off as bland.
The murder methods were interesting and varied.
The romance was too convenient, almost mechanical. Book loses half a star here.
Luther Pell and Raina completely overshadowed the lead pair. They had crackling chemistry, nice quips, added anticipation and excitement to the story. I'm hoping for their sequel.
Everybody gets a chance to save the day at some point - I really liked this.
Adelaide tries to be practical and has no hopes for their relationship. This irritated Jake and made me chuckle often.
The bad guys were underwhelming and predictable. The book loses a star due to this.
Something important is hidden in plain sight. Clever.
Favorite scenes
When Jake and Adelaide need to spend a night at the auto
Moonlight road
When Luther and Raina discuss Romeo and Juliet
“You can’t live in a hotel forever.”
“Why not? You seem to be doing just fine living on top of a nightclub.”
“That’s different. I own the place.
April 11, 2018
The Other Lady Vanishes is a rather enjoyable historical mystery set in 1930s California and the world of Hollywood's rich and famous. This book is the second book in Burning Cove series, which I didn't know when I started reading it, but it can be read as a stand-alone. I didn't feel lost for not reading the first book.
I loved the setting and the time period, I liked the characters a lot, and the mystery was quite interesting, if a little predictable. This book has a lot going for it: a dazzling setting with a story partially set in an insane asylum, a number of nefarious villains, and a swoony romance. I would recommend The Other Lady Vanishes to any historical mystery or fiction lover.
P.S. I won an ARC of The Other Lady Vanishes from the publisher in a social media giveaway.
I loved the setting and the time period, I liked the characters a lot, and the mystery was quite interesting, if a little predictable. This book has a lot going for it: a dazzling setting with a story partially set in an insane asylum, a number of nefarious villains, and a swoony romance. I would recommend The Other Lady Vanishes to any historical mystery or fiction lover.
P.S. I won an ARC of The Other Lady Vanishes from the publisher in a social media giveaway.
May 13, 2018
It seems the author woke up in the last 5% of the book and tried to pack in the mystery and drama that were missing in the first 95%.
November 9, 2018
3.5/5
Another really nice murder mystery from the master :) Review coming.
Another really nice murder mystery from the master :) Review coming.
October 23, 2020
WTH??????? This was the exact same story line from JAK's earlier work 'Light in Shadow'. I'm not talking similar - I'm saying it's the exact same plot. Heroine illegally detained in insane asylum by 'relatives' escapes thanks to female inmate. Disappears to small coastal town, assumes new identity. The nasty doctors want her back, the Hero steps in to save the day. The Hero & heroine re-visit the asylum.
Other than a few tweaks to the characters and the fact one book is set in the 30's and one is modern day with a little paranormal thrown in - they are the same book.
JAK is better than this - or she at least use to be. I know romance books have a formula, and I don't mind that, but I do insist on some creativity when it comes to plot and characters.
Other than a few tweaks to the characters and the fact one book is set in the 30's and one is modern day with a little paranormal thrown in - they are the same book.
JAK is better than this - or she at least use to be. I know romance books have a formula, and I don't mind that, but I do insist on some creativity when it comes to plot and characters.
February 6, 2018
Amanda Quick's second foray into the world of the 1930s is even better than the first. I was caught up the mystery from the beginning, and even when I thought all was told there was yet a little more to getting the whole story. There were twists and turns, and each time I thought "what about this?" the answer came. I loved the descriptions of the time period, from the dress to the cars to the suggestion of drug abuse and Hollywood stars. The relationship between Adelaide and Jake progressed slowly, from two people with a mutual goal, to friends, to lovers, and then to a life together. I'm a long time fan of Amanda Quick's and am very happy with this new series.
August 1, 2018
When Adelaide couldn't decide what to wear, I skimmed not just paragraphs but chapters. I quit at chapter 42 when "it was a matter of national security."
July 18, 2020
A mad house, a drug ring, a psychic to the stars, blackmail, and secrets pepper this installment of the smoldering Burning Cove historical romantic suspense series set in the 1930's. I eagerly sought out the older books in this series to catch up on the earlier stories because I knew they were not to be missed.
The Other Lady Vanishes is book two in the Burning Cove series. Each book standsalone quite well and I can say from experience that they stand up well to being read out of order as I started with book three and only came back for the first two after reading the fourth.
Adelaide makes her carefully-planned escape from the mental institution on a night when other sinister intentions are about so she sees murder done and attempted murder toward herself. She can't go back to her old life where they will find her and bring her back so she runs to Burning Cove and uses her intimate knowledge of herbs to bring a tea shop into fashion as a place where the Hollywood elite come for their herbal teas. She feels paranoia rise each time she thinks about getting caught and sent back. This is why giving in to the attraction and curiosity she feels for one of her regular customers is a really bad idea.
Jake is shrewd and is well aware that Adelaide has secrets. He does, too. She's welcome to them. Then one of her customers falls to her death the same night her house is broken into. He doesn't like those sorts of coincidences. Adelaide wants to get to the truth of Zolanda's death because she knows that the drug, DayDreams, her parents invented was used in the death and it was no suicide. Just like she feels the net closing in. Jake is after a blackmailer and their goals are separate, but involve the same people. He can keep Adelaide safe while getting back his late wife's tell-all diary.
Meanwhile, a certain lady PI and a suave night club owner match wits and more. Burning Cove is the playground of the rich and famous, but it has a dangerous side.
I was so certain that Luther Pell, owner of the Paradise Club and man with shadowy ties to the government and the mob, and Raina Kirk, remade woman and private detective, were getting their story next. But no, we get all new characters, Adelaide and Jake. After a brief pout, I jumped back into the story and enjoyed both of them.
We all have our fears and for me sanitoriums, insane hospitals, etc scare the bejeebers out of me. This one had to be some monstrosity of a Gothic Victorian Mansion set off by itself with a creepy scientist and skeevy doctor experimenting on their patients to promote their drug ring. Yeah, not worked up at all...
In truth, most of the story takes place in Burning Cove, but the heroine, poor Adelaide, got locked up in that place so the two creeps could treat her as a science experiment and the man she thought loved her could abscond with her inheritance. After time spent in the place, she can be forgiven for being shaky on the point of her own sanity and clutching her secrets to her. She remakes herself as an herbal tea specialist and a waitress in a tea shop. She had nothing and a lucky break in her kind-hearted boss, but she made the most of it. She is wary of trusting people especially a man, but eventually chooses to partner Jake even though he has his own agenda and secrets.
Jake's wife died of suicide or so it is thought until he tells Adelaide differently. He is convinced the psychic to the Stars, Madame Zolanda isn't just a fake showy psychic, but also a blackmailer and he plans to get back his wife's diary. It's obvious he has a colorful, exciting past when he hooks up with Adelaide, but it was fun seeing him open up and share with her. With this pair, the sharing of secrets was tantamount to most romantic pair's falling into bed together- they do this, too, eventually.
The Other Lady Vanishes offers up several suspects at first and more than one motive. I had no trouble putting my finger on the murder, the motive, and the obvious means after the first murder. I felt it was foreshadowed strongly so the final twist was no surprise. I admit that I would have liked to be surprised, but the dangerous and exciting scenes that came before it along with the romance kept me happily occupied.
Luther and Raina's first encounter was fun and I'm glad to have it along with a few other brief encounters, but I have to say that I was left wanting way more than I got. No surprise since I was anticipating this being their story. I can only hope for more later.
Meanwhile, I will savor the story I got and my visit back to Burning Cove. I love the lush, but sharp Old Hollywood world that is portrayed in this series and can't wait to move on with the next new release in the series. Those who love spicy historical romantic suspense should definitely pick these up.
The Other Lady Vanishes is book two in the Burning Cove series. Each book standsalone quite well and I can say from experience that they stand up well to being read out of order as I started with book three and only came back for the first two after reading the fourth.
Adelaide makes her carefully-planned escape from the mental institution on a night when other sinister intentions are about so she sees murder done and attempted murder toward herself. She can't go back to her old life where they will find her and bring her back so she runs to Burning Cove and uses her intimate knowledge of herbs to bring a tea shop into fashion as a place where the Hollywood elite come for their herbal teas. She feels paranoia rise each time she thinks about getting caught and sent back. This is why giving in to the attraction and curiosity she feels for one of her regular customers is a really bad idea.
Jake is shrewd and is well aware that Adelaide has secrets. He does, too. She's welcome to them. Then one of her customers falls to her death the same night her house is broken into. He doesn't like those sorts of coincidences. Adelaide wants to get to the truth of Zolanda's death because she knows that the drug, DayDreams, her parents invented was used in the death and it was no suicide. Just like she feels the net closing in. Jake is after a blackmailer and their goals are separate, but involve the same people. He can keep Adelaide safe while getting back his late wife's tell-all diary.
Meanwhile, a certain lady PI and a suave night club owner match wits and more. Burning Cove is the playground of the rich and famous, but it has a dangerous side.
I was so certain that Luther Pell, owner of the Paradise Club and man with shadowy ties to the government and the mob, and Raina Kirk, remade woman and private detective, were getting their story next. But no, we get all new characters, Adelaide and Jake. After a brief pout, I jumped back into the story and enjoyed both of them.
We all have our fears and for me sanitoriums, insane hospitals, etc scare the bejeebers out of me. This one had to be some monstrosity of a Gothic Victorian Mansion set off by itself with a creepy scientist and skeevy doctor experimenting on their patients to promote their drug ring. Yeah, not worked up at all...
In truth, most of the story takes place in Burning Cove, but the heroine, poor Adelaide, got locked up in that place so the two creeps could treat her as a science experiment and the man she thought loved her could abscond with her inheritance. After time spent in the place, she can be forgiven for being shaky on the point of her own sanity and clutching her secrets to her. She remakes herself as an herbal tea specialist and a waitress in a tea shop. She had nothing and a lucky break in her kind-hearted boss, but she made the most of it. She is wary of trusting people especially a man, but eventually chooses to partner Jake even though he has his own agenda and secrets.
Jake's wife died of suicide or so it is thought until he tells Adelaide differently. He is convinced the psychic to the Stars, Madame Zolanda isn't just a fake showy psychic, but also a blackmailer and he plans to get back his wife's diary. It's obvious he has a colorful, exciting past when he hooks up with Adelaide, but it was fun seeing him open up and share with her. With this pair, the sharing of secrets was tantamount to most romantic pair's falling into bed together- they do this, too, eventually.
The Other Lady Vanishes offers up several suspects at first and more than one motive. I had no trouble putting my finger on the murder, the motive, and the obvious means after the first murder. I felt it was foreshadowed strongly so the final twist was no surprise. I admit that I would have liked to be surprised, but the dangerous and exciting scenes that came before it along with the romance kept me happily occupied.
Luther and Raina's first encounter was fun and I'm glad to have it along with a few other brief encounters, but I have to say that I was left wanting way more than I got. No surprise since I was anticipating this being their story. I can only hope for more later.
Meanwhile, I will savor the story I got and my visit back to Burning Cove. I love the lush, but sharp Old Hollywood world that is portrayed in this series and can't wait to move on with the next new release in the series. Those who love spicy historical romantic suspense should definitely pick these up.
May 8, 2018
Originally posted on lampshadereader.com
Thanks to Penguin First-to-Read program for a copy of this book.
Back in Burning Cove and it seems as dangerous as ever. The Other Lady Vanishes is another riveting mystery set in the 1930s. This time focusing on the seemingly doomed character of Adelaide Blake.
I really did find myself drawn to the whole escape from the insane asylum thing. Quick’s way of grabbing the reader’s attention from the first chapter really never fails to impress. The scenes in this book far surpass those from the previous installment. While the whole drug plot might be a little cliche’ it did set the seedy tone throughout the entire story. The killer’s systematic killing style was super creepy and fun to read.
As with the mystery and suspense, a good amount of romance is sprinkled in. Adelaide’s and Jake’s romance is an easygoing one. I love their partnership both in and out of bed. He never once underestimated her because of her sex and always took her seriously. They do hold secrets from each other, but those are quickly dispensed with as the suspense escalates.
Characters from the previous book do make an appearance in this book and I can already tell you that I’m ready for Raina’s and Luther’s story. However, this can totally be read as a standalone.
Thanks to Penguin First-to-Read program for a copy of this book.
Back in Burning Cove and it seems as dangerous as ever. The Other Lady Vanishes is another riveting mystery set in the 1930s. This time focusing on the seemingly doomed character of Adelaide Blake.
I really did find myself drawn to the whole escape from the insane asylum thing. Quick’s way of grabbing the reader’s attention from the first chapter really never fails to impress. The scenes in this book far surpass those from the previous installment. While the whole drug plot might be a little cliche’ it did set the seedy tone throughout the entire story. The killer’s systematic killing style was super creepy and fun to read.
As with the mystery and suspense, a good amount of romance is sprinkled in. Adelaide’s and Jake’s romance is an easygoing one. I love their partnership both in and out of bed. He never once underestimated her because of her sex and always took her seriously. They do hold secrets from each other, but those are quickly dispensed with as the suspense escalates.
Characters from the previous book do make an appearance in this book and I can already tell you that I’m ready for Raina’s and Luther’s story. However, this can totally be read as a standalone.
June 6, 2018
Love, love, love these books. How Jayne Ann Krentz transforms herself into Amanda Quick has always been a mystery to me.
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