Her Mother’s Grave by Lisa Regan is the 3rd in the Detective Josie Quinn series.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Bookouture, and of courseHer Mother’s Grave by Lisa Regan is the 3rd in the Detective Josie Quinn series.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Bookouture, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Series Background: Josie Quinn was made a rather reluctant Chief of Police in Denton, Pennsylvania after solving a large case which resulted in the kidnapping, torture and deaths of many young girls in the area. Some of the perpetrators were on the police force, including her ex, Ray, who died during the take-down. Josie took his death hard. She has been re-building the police force, and re-building her life.
My Synopsis: When the bones of a young woman are found in the woods beyond the trailer park where Josie grew up, it soon becomes evident that this case will become personal. They discover that the girl was a teenager when she died (about 30 years ago), had been in foster care, and was named Belinda Rose. Josie finds it too coincidental that her abusive mother, who she hasn’t seen since she was 14, was also named Belinda Rose.
Meanwhile, Josie is being targeted with malicious pranks, and she feels the perpetrators may be friends of the local drug dealer that she has arrested. On the other hand, she does have other enemies.
Her relationship with Detective Fraley is heating up, although she is desperate to stop it.
Josie’s past comes back to haunt her throughout the book. Will she have to track down her mother to find the truth? A lot of secrets and lies will be uncovered that will change Josie’s life forever.
My Opinions: I am really beginning to enjoy this series. This was a really good book, and the best in the series thus far!
Alternating between Josie’s childhood, and the current case, the story sheds light on what has made Josie into the strong woman she is today. Her struggles with an abusive mother only made her more determined, and the love of her grandmother gave her strength and compassion. The story of her childhood was told very well.
Although there had been foreshadowing in previous books about Trinity, I am glad the author found a way to bring her fully into Josie’s life. It’s a great storyline.
Regan’s writing is crisp, and clear, and her plots always precise with at least one or two twists. This was a really fast read, because I didn’t want to put it down! Can’t wait for the next.
Her Mother’s Grave by Lisa Regan is the 3rd in the Detective Josie Quinn series.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Bookouture, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Series Background: Josie Quinn was made a rather reluctant Chief of Police in Denton, Pennsylvania after solving a large case which resulted in the kidnapping, torture and deaths of many young girls in the area. Some of the perpetrators were on the police force, including her ex, Ray, who died during the take-down. Josie took his death hard. She has been re-building the police force, and re-building her life.
My Synopsis: When the bones of a young woman are found in the woods beyond the trailer park where Josie grew up, it soon becomes evident that this case will become personal. They discover that the girl was a teenager when she died (about 30 years ago), had been in foster care, and was named Belinda Rose. Josie finds it too coincidental that her abusive mother, who she hasn’t seen since she was 14, was also named Belinda Rose.
Meanwhile, Josie is being targeted with malicious pranks, and she feels the perpetrators may be friends of the local drug dealer that she has arrested. On the other hand, she does have other enemies.
Her relationship with Detective Fraley is heating up, although she is desperate to stop it.
Josie’s past comes back to haunt her throughout the book. Will she have to track down her mother to find the truth? A lot of secrets and lies will be uncovered that will change Josie’s life forever.
My Opinions: I am really beginning to enjoy this series. This was a really good book, and the best in the series thus far!
Alternating between Josie’s childhood, and the current case, the story sheds light on what has made Josie into the strong woman she is today. Her struggles with an abusive mother only made her more determined, and the love of her grandmother gave her strength and compassion. The story of her childhood was told very well.
Although there had been foreshadowing in previous books about Trinity, I am glad the author found a way to bring her fully into Josie’s life. It’s a great storyline.
Regan’s writing is crisp, and clear, and her plots always precise with at least one or two twists. This was a really fast read, because I didn’t want to put it down! Can’t wait for the next.
Chills by Mary SanGiovanni is the 1st in the Kathy Ryan series. It is a horror novel. Note that this book was originally published in 2015 un3.5 stars
Chills by Mary SanGiovanni is the 1st in the Kathy Ryan series. It is a horror novel. Note that this book was originally published in 2015 under the title “The Blue People”.
Series Background: Kathy Ryan is called in by police forces across the country when strange things are found. She is one of the leading experts in occult practices, ancient grimoires, devil worship, blood sacrifices, and rites to archaic gods and monsters. The reason behind her expertise is not well-known, but most agree that it has something to do with the scar that runs down her face.
My Synopsis: A freak snowstorm hits the town of Colby, Connecticut at the end of May, essentially closing the town. When a body is found hanging upside down from a tree, marked with a demonic symbol, and with ritualistic undertones, it is only the beginning. Police Detective Jack Frazier quickly gathers a team, including Kathy Ryan and Detectives Reece Teagan and Oliver Morris. A cult known as the Hand of the Black Stars has opened a door, and the “things” that are coming out of that door plan on wiping out Colby, and the world beyond. If people don't believe in monsters, they will soon.
My Opinions: I enjoyed this, although I did have a couple of complaints. The “Blue People” should have been called something a little more sophisticated. I had no idea what an “anglerfish” looked like, but apparently everyone else in town did, so I googled it, and then freaked a little. I also found the book a little wordy at times.
All that being said, I loved the premise of the book…a town cut off by snow, and the snow itself an enemy. Living in a city where you could, theoretically, be cut off in the winter, it rang true. However, most of us know to stay inside when the weather turns. I liked the characters of Kathy, Teagan and Morris, but found Jack to be a little shallow. I’d like to know more about those characters in future books, and hope they work together again.
Overall, it was a fast, entertaining read. Needless to say, I’ll be reading more of her books.
Chills by Mary SanGiovanni is the 1st in the Kathy Ryan series. It is a horror novel. Note that this book was originally published in 2015 under the title “The Blue People”.
Series Background: Kathy Ryan is called in by police forces across the country when strange things are found. She is one of the leading experts in occult practices, ancient grimoires, devil worship, blood sacrifices, and rites to archaic gods and monsters. The reason behind her expertise is not well-known, but most agree that it has something to do with the scar that runs down her face.
My Synopsis: A freak snowstorm hits the town of Colby, Connecticut at the end of May, essentially closing the town. When a body is found hanging upside down from a tree, marked with a demonic symbol, and with ritualistic undertones, it is only the beginning. Police Detective Jack Frazier quickly gathers a team, including Kathy Ryan and Detectives Reece Teagan and Oliver Morris. A cult known as the Hand of the Black Stars has opened a door, and the “things” that are coming out of that door plan on wiping out Colby, and the world beyond. If people don't believe in monsters, they will soon.
My Opinions: I enjoyed this, although I did have a couple of complaints. The “Blue People” should have been called something a little more sophisticated. I had no idea what an “anglerfish” looked like, but apparently everyone else in town did, so I googled it, and then freaked a little. I also found the book a little wordy at times.
All that being said, I loved the premise of the book…a town cut off by snow, and the snow itself an enemy. Living in a city where you could, theoretically, be cut off in the winter, it rang true. However, most of us know to stay inside when the weather turns. I liked the characters of Kathy, Teagan and Morris, but found Jack to be a little shallow. I’d like to know more about those characters in future books, and hope they work together again.
Overall, it was a fast, entertaining read. Needless to say, I’ll be reading more of her books.
The Guilty Wife by Elle Croft is a psychological thriller.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Orion Publishing Group – who approached me withThe Guilty Wife by Elle Croft is a psychological thriller.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Orion Publishing Group – who approached me with this title, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
My Synopsis: Bethany Reston, who considers herself happily married, is having an affair with Calum Bradley, her wealthy client. Calum is also married, but has a rather open marriage, as his wife also has affairs. However, due to their positions, Calum insists on discretion, and has instituted rules to ensure secrecy. That is fine with Bethany. She doesn’t want this getting out either. Her marriage isn’t quite so “open”.
When Calum is brutally murdered, Bethany’s world explodes. It soon becomes evident that her secret may not be safe. Someone out there knows about the affair, and is sending her notes, and pictures, and threats. She can’t go to the police. Whoever it is has access to Bethany’s home, her social media accounts, her life. Whoever it is may be setting Bethany up as the murderer.
My Opinions: My only complaint about this book was the subject matter. This book was not for me. I don’t handle books about cheating spouses well, and I think Bethany got what she deserved. That being said, I am trying very hard to rate the book on the merits of the writing, because in one way, I really hated it, and it was all I could do to finish it.
So, on the other hand. First, let me say, that Elle Croft is an excellent writer. The dialog was good, and the reader really felt what was going on in Bethany’s head. You felt her anxiety, fear, anger. The pace was good. The actual plot was good. Although I had figured out who was behind everything, the ending was interesting.
3.5 stars
Not for me, but I am sure there are a lot of people out there who love this one!
The Guilty Wife by Elle Croft is a psychological thriller.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Orion Publishing Group – who approached me with this title, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
My Synopsis: Bethany Reston, who considers herself happily married, is having an affair with Calum Bradley, her wealthy client. Calum is also married, but has a rather open marriage, as his wife also has affairs. However, due to their positions, Calum insists on discretion, and has instituted rules to ensure secrecy. That is fine with Bethany. She doesn’t want this getting out either. Her marriage isn’t quite so “open”.
When Calum is brutally murdered, Bethany’s world explodes. It soon becomes evident that her secret may not be safe. Someone out there knows about the affair, and is sending her notes, and pictures, and threats. She can’t go to the police. Whoever it is has access to Bethany’s home, her social media accounts, her life. Whoever it is may be setting Bethany up as the murderer.
My Opinions: My only complaint about this book was the subject matter. This book was not for me. I don’t handle books about cheating spouses well, and I think Bethany got what she deserved. That being said, I am trying very hard to rate the book on the merits of the writing, because in one way, I really hated it, and it was all I could do to finish it.
So, on the other hand. First, let me say, that Elle Croft is an excellent writer. The dialog was good, and the reader really felt what was going on in Bethany’s head. You felt her anxiety, fear, anger. The pace was good. The actual plot was good. Although I had figured out who was behind everything, the ending was interesting.
3.5 stars
Not for me, but I am sure there are a lot of people out there who love this one!
Perfect Girls by Alison James is the 3rd in the Detective Rachel Prince Series.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Bookouture, and of course Perfect Girls by Alison James is the 3rd in the Detective Rachel Prince Series.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Bookouture, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Series Background (Warning – May contain spoilers from previous books): DI Rachel Prince is a Detective with the NCA (National Crime Agency), which includes Interpol, so she is often sent to other countries to investigate or liaise with their police forces. She has recently been divorced (although they had been separated for 17 years), and she has also recently met her son Joe, who she gave up for adoption as a newborn. Her romantic relationships with men are ridiculous. She works with DS Mark Brickall, who seems to be rather flippant about his job, but I think he would easily risk his life for her.
My Synopsis: Rachel has her DCI promotion assessment coming up, but when the opportunity to go to California to liaise with the local police on a case arises, she jumps at the chance. Apparently a young woman from the UK was found dead under suspicious circumstances.
She meets with the Washington, DC Interpol agent to go over the case, and then it’s off to Los Angeles, where the family of UK born Phoebe Stiles has landed, and they want some answers. When Rachel finds another similar case in San Diego, she starts looking for things to link the two victims. Although the L.A. police quickly arrest Phoebe’s boyfriend, Rachel doesn’t think he committed the crime. Eventually she is called back to England, but she can’t get the case out of her mind. When her boss refuses to let her go back to the States, she takes time off work and goes on her own. Criss-crossing the country, Rachel is finding more clues, and keeps getting closer to the perpetrator…until she gets too close.
My Opinions: Each book in this series gets better. Although I’m not impressed with Rachel’s choice in men, she is starting to grow on me. She’s a little headstrong, and refuses to back down, even when ordered. I am also starting to like Mark Brickall, as I see, in this book in particular, that his heart is in the right place. The author is developing her characters quite well.
This was a really fast paced book, and a quick read. The plot was good, and everything held together well.
I am definitely looking forward to the next in the series!
Perfect Girls by Alison James is the 3rd in the Detective Rachel Prince Series.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Bookouture, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Series Background (Warning – May contain spoilers from previous books): DI Rachel Prince is a Detective with the NCA (National Crime Agency), which includes Interpol, so she is often sent to other countries to investigate or liaise with their police forces. She has recently been divorced (although they had been separated for 17 years), and she has also recently met her son Joe, who she gave up for adoption as a newborn. Her romantic relationships with men are ridiculous. She works with DS Mark Brickall, who seems to be rather flippant about his job, but I think he would easily risk his life for her.
My Synopsis: Rachel has her DCI promotion assessment coming up, but when the opportunity to go to California to liaise with the local police on a case arises, she jumps at the chance. Apparently a young woman from the UK was found dead under suspicious circumstances.
She meets with the Washington, DC Interpol agent to go over the case, and then it’s off to Los Angeles, where the family of UK born Phoebe Stiles has landed, and they want some answers. When Rachel finds another similar case in San Diego, she starts looking for things to link the two victims. Although the L.A. police quickly arrest Phoebe’s boyfriend, Rachel doesn’t think he committed the crime. Eventually she is called back to England, but she can’t get the case out of her mind. When her boss refuses to let her go back to the States, she takes time off work and goes on her own. Criss-crossing the country, Rachel is finding more clues, and keeps getting closer to the perpetrator…until she gets too close.
My Opinions: Each book in this series gets better. Although I’m not impressed with Rachel’s choice in men, she is starting to grow on me. She’s a little headstrong, and refuses to back down, even when ordered. I am also starting to like Mark Brickall, as I see, in this book in particular, that his heart is in the right place. The author is developing her characters quite well.
This was a really fast paced book, and a quick read. The plot was good, and everything held together well.
I am definitely looking forward to the next in the series!
Little Girl Gone by Stephen Edger is a psychological thriller.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Harper Impulse and Killer Reads, and of coLittle Girl Gone by Stephen Edger is a psychological thriller.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Harper Impulse and Killer Reads, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
My Synopsis: 2-year old Carol-Anne is missing. Alex Granger pulled into the car-park, left her daughter in the car for two minutes while she went to get a ticket, and when she returned, Carol-Anne was no longer strapped in her car-seat in the backseat. And so the nightmare begins.
Alex’s husband Ray is a detective. Surely he and the team can find Carol-Anne. But there is no evidence, no clues. With a miscarriage behind her, Alex cannot imagine life without her daughter. Her mental health is being brought into question, and with a marriage already on shaky grounds, Alex and Ray may not survive this.
When Alex gets a message from the kidnapper, no one really believes it is reliable, but Alex knows in her heart it is true. But the message gives her an ultimatum, and Alex will eventually have to decide how far she will go to get her daughter back.
My Opinions: Loved this book. Edger created characters to love and characters to make you wonder. He created a plot with twists and turns and with red-herrings at every corner. He took every parent’s worst nightmare and increased the tension. I think he had the ending right (although he left me with a few unanswered questions, but that’s okay).
Little Girl Gone by Stephen Edger is a psychological thriller.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Harper Impulse and Killer Reads, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
My Synopsis: 2-year old Carol-Anne is missing. Alex Granger pulled into the car-park, left her daughter in the car for two minutes while she went to get a ticket, and when she returned, Carol-Anne was no longer strapped in her car-seat in the backseat. And so the nightmare begins.
Alex’s husband Ray is a detective. Surely he and the team can find Carol-Anne. But there is no evidence, no clues. With a miscarriage behind her, Alex cannot imagine life without her daughter. Her mental health is being brought into question, and with a marriage already on shaky grounds, Alex and Ray may not survive this.
When Alex gets a message from the kidnapper, no one really believes it is reliable, but Alex knows in her heart it is true. But the message gives her an ultimatum, and Alex will eventually have to decide how far she will go to get her daughter back.
My Opinions: Loved this book. Edger created characters to love and characters to make you wonder. He created a plot with twists and turns and with red-herrings at every corner. He took every parent’s worst nightmare and increased the tension. I think he had the ending right (although he left me with a few unanswered questions, but that’s okay).
Origin by Dan Brown is the 5th in the Robert Langdon Series.
Series Background: Robert Langdon is a Harvard professor, teaching religious iconology and Origin by Dan Brown is the 5th in the Robert Langdon Series.
Series Background: Robert Langdon is a Harvard professor, teaching religious iconology and the meaning of symbols. He usually gets involved in researching mysteries when historical symbols are found related to religion, often putting his own life in jeopardy to solve some controversial problem. On a personal note, Langdon is claustrophobic due to an accidental fall into a well when he was a young boy. He is an avid swimmer, and has an eidetic memory. He wears a Mickey Mouse watch. Although he was raised Catholic, he is on his own spiritual quest.
My Synopsis: Robert is invited to the Guggenheim Museum in Spain by his former pupil, Edmond Kirsch. Kirsch is known for his controversial predictions and high-tech inventions. He is a futurist, and billionaire, who has a flair for the dramatic. He is about to make a big announcement. First, however, he wants his old teachers’ advice. Kirsch knows that there will be fallout from his announcement, as he is about to put himself in direct conflict with centuries of spiritual teachings. Although Langdon had always said that science and religion are often telling the same story in different languages, Kirsch figures his declaration may incite more hostility than usual. He has already consulted with heads of the Catholic, Jewish and Muslim faiths, and did not receive any encouragement, although none was expected. Despite the religious backlash, Kirsch plans on using science to answer the two most fundamental questions….Where did we come from, and where are we going.
When Kirsch is murdered just before the announcement is made, Robert and the museum assistant, Ambra Vidal (who is the fiancée of the next King of Spain), decide they will discover Edmond’s secret and release it to the world. All they have to do is crack the 47-character password to stream the video. They also have to stay alive long enough to do this. They actually have some unexpected assistance from a “friend” of Edmonds. However, the same group that was trying to stop Kirsch, are now going to try and stop Ambra and Robert. Determining who is actually after them is a toss-up between a Catholic Bishop, someone in the Royal Party, and the Palmariana Church.
My Opinions: Dan Brown creates some wonderful books with some very controversial topics, which he says “promote spiritual discussion and debate”. Yeah, okay. Be that as it may, he writes a good, action packed story. His writing is pretty basic, and perhaps not the best, but his plots are always good.
To say you have to put your thinking caps on before entering into Brown’s world is an understatement. Be prepared, Brown gets a little wordy in this one, and he goes deep. Although the book kept me entertained right to the end, often I found myself slogging through information I didn’t care about. Everybody had a backstory, and there are a lot of characters. Thankfully they were easy, if a little time-consuming, to follow.
Note that although these are a series of books with Langdon as the lead, each could easily be read as a stand-alone novel.
On another note, I have really enjoyed the movies that have been a result of his books, and hope that they continue. In my opinion, Tom Hanks as Robert Langdon was the right choice! It actually helps me picturing Hanks while I read the books.
Origin by Dan Brown is the 5th in the Robert Langdon Series.
Series Background: Robert Langdon is a Harvard professor, teaching religious iconology and the meaning of symbols. He usually gets involved in researching mysteries when historical symbols are found related to religion, often putting his own life in jeopardy to solve some controversial problem. On a personal note, Langdon is claustrophobic due to an accidental fall into a well when he was a young boy. He is an avid swimmer, and has an eidetic memory. He wears a Mickey Mouse watch. Although he was raised Catholic, he is on his own spiritual quest.
My Synopsis: Robert is invited to the Guggenheim Museum in Spain by his former pupil, Edmond Kirsch. Kirsch is known for his controversial predictions and high-tech inventions. He is a futurist, and billionaire, who has a flair for the dramatic. He is about to make a big announcement. First, however, he wants his old teachers’ advice. Kirsch knows that there will be fallout from his announcement, as he is about to put himself in direct conflict with centuries of spiritual teachings. Although Langdon had always said that science and religion are often telling the same story in different languages, Kirsch figures his declaration may incite more hostility than usual. He has already consulted with heads of the Catholic, Jewish and Muslim faiths, and did not receive any encouragement, although none was expected. Despite the religious backlash, Kirsch plans on using science to answer the two most fundamental questions….Where did we come from, and where are we going.
When Kirsch is murdered just before the announcement is made, Robert and the museum assistant, Ambra Vidal (who is the fiancée of the next King of Spain), decide they will discover Edmond’s secret and release it to the world. All they have to do is crack the 47-character password to stream the video. They also have to stay alive long enough to do this. They actually have some unexpected assistance from a “friend” of Edmonds. However, the same group that was trying to stop Kirsch, are now going to try and stop Ambra and Robert. Determining who is actually after them is a toss-up between a Catholic Bishop, someone in the Royal Party, and the Palmariana Church.
My Opinions: Dan Brown creates some wonderful books with some very controversial topics, which he says “promote spiritual discussion and debate”. Yeah, okay. Be that as it may, he writes a good, action packed story. His writing is pretty basic, and perhaps not the best, but his plots are always good.
To say you have to put your thinking caps on before entering into Brown’s world is an understatement. Be prepared, Brown gets a little wordy in this one, and he goes deep. Although the book kept me entertained right to the end, often I found myself slogging through information I didn’t care about. Everybody had a backstory, and there are a lot of characters. Thankfully they were easy, if a little time-consuming, to follow.
Note that although these are a series of books with Langdon as the lead, each could easily be read as a stand-alone novel.
On another note, I have really enjoyed the movies that have been a result of his books, and hope that they continue. In my opinion, Tom Hanks as Robert Langdon was the right choice! It actually helps me picturing Hanks while I read the books.
Origin by Dan Brown is the 5th in the Robert Langdon Series.
Series Background: Robert Langdon is a Harvard professor, teaching religious iconology and the meaning of symbols. He usually gets involved in researching mysteries when historical symbols are found related to religion, often putting his own life in jeopardy to solve some controversial problem. On a personal note, Langdon is claustrophobic due to an accidental fall into a well when he was a young boy. He is an avid swimmer, and has an eidetic memory. He wears a Mickey Mouse watch. Although he was raised Catholic, he is on his own spiritual quest.
My Synopsis: Robert is invited to the Guggenheim Museum in Spain by his former pupil, Edmond Kirsch. Kirsch is known for his controversial predictions and high-tech inventions. He is a futurist, and billionaire, who has a flair for the dramatic. He is about to make a big announcement. First, however, he wants his old teachers’ advice. Kirsch knows that there will be fallout from his announcement, as he is about to put himself in direct conflict with centuries of spiritual teachings. Although Langdon had always said that science and religion are often telling the same story in different languages, Kirsch figures his declaration may incite more hostility than usual. He has already consulted with heads of the Catholic, Jewish and Muslim faiths, and did not receive any encouragement, although none was expected. Despite the religious backlash, Kirsch plans on using science to answer the two most fundamental questions….Where did we come from, and where are we going.
When Kirsch is murdered just before the announcement is made, Robert and the museum assistant, Ambra Vidal (who is the fiancée of the next King of Spain), decide they will discover Edmond’s secret and release it to the world. All they have to do is crack the 47-character password to stream the video. They also have to stay alive long enough to do this. They actually have some unexpected assistance from a “friend” of Edmonds. However, the same group that was trying to stop Kirsch, are now going to try and stop Ambra and Robert. Determining who is actually after them is a toss-up between a Catholic Bishop, someone in the Royal Party, and the Palmariana Church.
My Opinions: Dan Brown creates some wonderful books with some very controversial topics, which he says “promote spiritual discussion and debate”. Yeah, okay. Be that as it may, he writes a good, action packed story. His writing is pretty basic, and perhaps not the best, but his plots are always good.
To say you have to put your thinking caps on before entering into Brown’s world is an understatement. Be prepared, Brown gets a little wordy in this one, and he goes deep. Although the book kept me entertained right to the end, often I found myself slogging through information I didn’t care about. Everybody had a backstory, and there are a lot of characters. Thankfully they were easy, if a little time-consuming, to follow.
Note that although these are a series of books with Langdon as the lead, each could easily be read as a stand-alone novel.
On another note, I have really enjoyed the movies that have been a result of his books, and hope that they continue. In my opinion, Tom Hanks as Robert Langdon was the right choice! It actually helps me picturing Hanks while I read the books.
Grayson Manor Haunting by Cheryl Bradshaw is the 1st in the Addison Lockhart series.
My Synopsis: When Addison Lockhart was a child, she saw h3.5 stars
Grayson Manor Haunting by Cheryl Bradshaw is the 1st in the Addison Lockhart series.
My Synopsis: When Addison Lockhart was a child, she saw her best friend fall off a swing and die….before it actually happened. No one believed her, and her parents sent her to a psychiatrist. Although she continued to see visions, she learned to lie. Eventually, she lied so well, she no longer believed herself, and the visions stopped.
That is, until she inherited Grayson Manor, the house where her mother was born. Upon touching an old dress found in a trunk, the vision of a woman appears to Addison. The woman is in a room with a calendar stating the year is 1952. She is begging for her life. A gun appears, and she is shot twice. Addison is intent on finding out who this woman was, and if possible, find her killer. Perhaps then this spirit can find peace.
She will get some unexpected help.
My Opinions: This is an intriguing ghost story, with a likable protagonist and a cast of interesting characters, but it is lacking any real depth.
On the other hand, it is a fast, light read….and we can all use one of those every now and then. And although I am not a romance reader, the bit in this one worked.
Bring Them Home by D.S. Butler is the 1st in the Detective Karen Hart series.
My Synopsis: 5 years ago, DS Karen Hart lost her husband Josh an3.5 stars
Bring Them Home by D.S. Butler is the 1st in the Detective Karen Hart series.
My Synopsis: 5 years ago, DS Karen Hart lost her husband Josh and her daughter Tilly in a car accident. She struggles to move on, living in the same large house, afraid to move lest her memories of them weaken. She pours her energy into her work.
Hart, who relies heavily on her instincts and hunches, has a new boss, DI Scott Morgan, who takes a very logical approach to the job (and his life), leaving little room for emotional thoughts. Hart is trying to keep her own emotions in line, while also trying to reign in the enthusiasm of her new constable Sophie Jones and understand the unusual behaviour of her more experienced constable Rick Cooper. The two constables are constantly bickering.
But they will all have to pull together if they hope to find two missing 10-year old girls. There seem to be no good leads. Every investigation leads to a dead end. Although Karen is insistent that the Palmer family play a role in the abduction, even she admits she may have tunnel vision where that family is concerned. She was sure they were responsible when 19-year old Amy Fisher went missing, but no proof ever surfaced.
As days pass, the chance of finding the girls alive shrinks.
My Opinions: Although I had guessed the identity of the kidnapper, it did not detract from the story, which was very well laid out. As well, Butler created a number of interesting suspects to choose from. I also think her writing style was clear and concise.
My only criticism was that it somehow moved slowly, and lacked a little excitement. Not sure why. Maybe I just have to get used to DS Hart, as I didn’t really connect with her.
I still enjoyed it, and am looking forward to the second in the series.
Watching You by Lisa Jewell is a psychological thriller.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Atria Books, and of course the author, f3.5 stars
Watching You by Lisa Jewell is a psychological thriller.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Atria Books, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
My Synopsis: The people in Melville Heights watch each other. They see everything. Secrets are kept, but when someone is murdered, many things are revealed.
Tom Fitzwilliam is the Principal of the local school. He and his family move from school to school, while he “fixes” their problems. He is an attractive man, fawned over by many, and seems squeaky clean. But is he?
Some of Tom’s neighbours are interested in the answers.
Jenna, a student at Tom’s school is beginning to wonder about her principal. Jenna’s mom Frances, thinks Tom is one of many who are stalking her. Although mentally unwell, Frances remembers witnessing an altercation Tom had with a woman when they were away on a holiday. Although Jenna realizes her mom is paranoid, she does believe that Mr. Fitzwilliam was that man. She is also starting to see some strange behaviour from her principal.
Jenna’s friend Bess has a major crush on Mr. Fitzwilliam. This is creating friction between Bess and Jenna.
Joey (Josephine) is newly married to Alfie, and currently living with her brother and his wife (who has her own secrets), a few doors away from Tom Fitzwilliam. Joey also has a crush on Tom.
Nicola, Tom’s younger wife, seems oblivious, but is she?
Freddy, Tom’s 14-year old genius son who plans to work for MI5 as a spy, is a bit of a voyeur. He is never without his binoculars or camera, and has just discovered girls. Someone is hacking into his computer.
My Opinions: A bit of a slow start on this one, with a lot of characters, and a plot that took a while to take off. However, the last 25% was good, really good.
The story ended up with a fairly major “creep” factor, thanks to all the “watching” going on. The story is told by different perspectives (mainly Jenna, Joey, and Freddy). Through the police interviews of a few characters, we are aware of a “heinous crime” being committed, but it is a ways in before we find out what happened, and a lot further in until the culprit is found. I liked the ending.
Hunting Annabelle by Wendy Heard is a psychological thriller.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Harlequin - MIRA, and of course the author, Hunting Annabelle by Wendy Heard is a psychological thriller.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Harlequin - MIRA, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
My Synopsis: 23-year old Sean Suh is generally heavily medicated. He has served his time in a psychiatric prison, and is now living with his Mom (a neurosurgeon) in Texas. He sees his psychiatrist twice a week, and she keeps trying to get him to talk to others.
Little does she know that Sean, during his daily trip to a theme park where he draws the people and their auras, has met someone. Annabelle was visiting the park to spread the ashes of her crazy grandmother. Annabelle is beautiful, and to Sean, her aura is copper. They actually hit it off, and Sean is determined to keep his urges under control. He will NOT hurt Annabelle. But when he sees her kidnapped, Sean immediately informs the police. Their reaction is disbelief, especially when his mother tells them he is mentally ill. With no one believing him, Sean decides to find Annabelle himself. Unfortunately, with every step he takes, he seems to get deeper into trouble. The police seriously believe he harmed Annabelle. Sean is beginning to wonder himself.
My Opinions: WOW. This was simply an amazing book. I can’t believe this was the author’s debut novel. Wendy Heard tackled a few tough subjects in this one including mental illness, violence against women, police brutality…some of which just left you shocked. Of course, remembering that this was set in the 1980’s helps a little.
I loved Sean. The author created a hero who has touches of both good and evil, and it worked. A hero that was both loving and scary, sane yet insane, often violent, and a rather unreliable narrator. His thought processes often had me laughing, when I wasn’t wondering what he was going to do next!
The pace was fast, and the twists just kept coming. This book was hard to put down. It was just so different. It was a really wild and fun ride!
Beware, it is not for the squeamish….I loved it, and I thought the ending was perfect!
Before Evil by Alex Kava is the prequel to the FBI Agent Maggie O’Dell Series.
My Synopsis: This is the story of Maggie O’Dell and how she became the fBefore Evil by Alex Kava is the prequel to the FBI Agent Maggie O’Dell Series.
My Synopsis: This is the story of Maggie O’Dell and how she became the famous FBI Agent Maggie O’Dell. This is her back-story…those early experiences that shaped her into the tough and determined woman she is today.
We learn how her success in profiling and solving crimes behind a desk prepared her to go out into the field. We learn about her marriage. We learn a bit about her mentor Assistant Director Cunningham, and her budding friendship with Dr. Gwen Patterson. And we learn about Albert Stuckey – the sadistic serial killer that left parts of bodies behind, and who grew particularly attached to Maggie, so much that he lured her into his own trap.
My Opinions: As much as I have enjoyed this series, this prequel fell short. It also confused me. The Stucky storyline is a lot different that it was when Maggie told Nick about it in the first book. That, and the fact that we really didn’t learn anything particularly earth-shattering that hadn’t been hinted at or outright said in subsequent books, led me to be really disappointed in this one.
I am still looking forward to a more current Maggie O’Dell book.
The Uninvited by J.A. Baker is a psychological thriller with a hint of supernatural thrown in.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Bloodhound The Uninvited by J.A. Baker is a psychological thriller with a hint of supernatural thrown in.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Bloodhound Books, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
My Synopsis: Faye and her husband Hugh have moved into a new house with their two small children. Although the house is rather run-down, it is enormous and the couple dreams of fixing it up. Both Faye and Hugh are now working from home. They have moved away from the events of the past year that have left them drained. They have moved away from Jeff, a co-worker of Faye’s who got a little too friendly with Faye. They have moved away from Todd, Hugh’s older son from a teenage romance, who became much too aggressive with both of them. Neither Jeff nor Todd were told about the move.
However, it seems like Faye and her family are still being haunted, although initially Hugh is ignorantly unaware, and ready to send Faye back to counselling. Faye on the other hand is stronger than he thinks. She is determined to find out more. Has Jeff or Todd found them? Or do the mysterious events that occurred in their new house play a part? Faye is determined to find out answers.
My Opinions: Although I struggled with the first few chapters, the book then picked up speed, and I really enjoyed it.
I loved Faye’s determination to stay strong and protect her family, even when her rather weak husband tried his best to ignore events. Baker created characters whose depth grew with each turning page.
The story kept you guessing whether the events were the result of a human or supernatural being, and that made the reading fun. You didn’t know til the end….and I loved the ending.
This is the first book I have read by this author, but will definitely be looking for more.
The Orchid Girls by Lesley Sanderson is a psychological thriller.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Bookouture and of course the au3.5 stars
The Orchid Girls by Lesley Sanderson is a psychological thriller.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Bookouture and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
My Synopsis: Charlotte and Belinda used to bully Molly in grade school, until one day when their bullying went a little far. As teenagers, Charlotte meets up with Molly and her friend Grace, and it seems all is forgiven, and they become The Orchid Girls, each donning a tattoo of the flower on her inner wrist. But their relationship is full of teenage angst, jealousy and hormones. When Charlotte goes missing, only Molly and Grace know what happened.
Fourteen years passed. Molly has never forgotten Grace, even though they lost touch after Charlotte disappeared. She finally finds her, and craves the relationship they once had. Molly is down on her luck, an alcoholic with a girlfriend who only comes calling when she is bored with her real girlfriend. Molly is going to win Grace back.
Grace is an Internet success, posting pictures of healthy food that she creates. She is about to publish her first cookbook. Her husband Richard is running for politics, hoping to be the next Mayor of London. They are both endeavoring to create the perfect life, and must show the world only perfection. Grace has changed her name and hid her past. Not even Richard knows where she really came from.
When Molly finds her, Grace freaks. She wants nothing to do with Molly, and wants the past to stay buried, and their teenage romance to remain hidden. But Molly’s love for her has never died, and she is sure that she can convince Grace to ditch Richard and resume their relationship. She is going to get sober and make sure that happens.
When a young girl goes missing in Richard’s constituency, it brings back the memories of another time. Both Molly and Grace are haunted by the secret that they have kept. But now a reporter is sniffing around, and Molly’s sobriety is making her re-think the past.
My Opinions: This was a good book. It is about friendship, about young love, about how attitudes between same-sex couples continue to evolve. It is also the story of secrets, and lies, and the affect they have years later.
The story is told from different perspectives, including Molly, Grace, and from their old journals. This makes the reader see the different points of view quite clearly.
Unfortunately, I felt the book moved very slowly to start, and I didn’t really like the characters. Eventually things grew more engaging, and the pace picked up.
As her first psychological thriller, this book was good, and I’m looking forward to what Lesley Sanderson shows us next.
First Grave on the Right is the 1st in the PI Charley Davidson series.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher St. Martin’s Press, and of course t First Grave on the Right is the 1st in the PI Charley Davidson series.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher St. Martin’s Press, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Series Background: Charley Davidson has a few jobs. She is a Private Investigator, handling mostly domestic cases. She tends bar at her Dad’s when needed. She is also a “consultant” with the Albuquerque Police Department (with her Uncle Bob). Finally, she is the Grim Reaper. She sees dead people, and guides them into the light. Most of those dead people died unexpectedly. As the Grim Reaper, she has been a big help to both her father (an ex-cop) and now her Uncle in solving crimes. It really helps when the victim can tell you who did it.
My Synopsis: Charley has a few things on the go in this book.
She has just helped a woman escape to Mexico while she kept her abusive ex-husband busy, and has a lot of bruises to prove it. Unfortunately she hasn’t heard the end of this case.
She is also helping her Uncle Bob with the murder of 3 lawyers, who have remained around in spirit to help with the case. Charley ends up trying to find evidence to get their client out of jail…again at great personal risk to herself.
But to Charley, the most important thing she is doing is trying to keep her demon lover alive.
Charley learns a lot about herself in this book, things she has never realized before. Knowing she can talk to the dead and guide them into the light is the least of her abilities.
My Opinions: Let’s start with saying I am not a reader of romance. Nor am I a reader of humour. This one had me hot & bothered and laughing at the same time. Now for a middle-aged woman set in her ways, this was refreshing!
Darynda created her main character to be a strong woman in her mid-20’s, with a lot of attitude and sass. Sarcasm is her strong suit. The supporting cast are just as interesting.
This book has everything….romance, humour, paranormal suspense, mystery…and a lot of craziness. I loved it. Although this series has been around for a while, I found this on NetGalley, and am going to check for more.
The plot, writing and characters are simply great. It was a fast, light read. It is not a deep murder mystery by any means. It is not particularly suspenseful. It is more chick-lit fantasy than dark and scary.
What it is…..it’s fun! Totally entertaining, but it’s not for everyone.
What I truly loved – a series with a lot of books I have not yet read :) I’m on it!
Think Yourself Lucky by Ramsey Campbell is a horror novel.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Flame Tree Press, and of course the author, forThink Yourself Lucky by Ramsey Campbell is a horror novel.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Flame Tree Press, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
My Synopsis: David Botham is working for a travel agency run by his ex-girlfriend Andrea. The atmosphere there is poor, as Andrea keeps threatening people will be fired if things don’t improve, and the staff is overly involved in everyone’s business. David’s new girlfriend Stephanie is a cook with a rather rough boss, and she is looking for a new job.
David is not a writer. Has no intention of being a writer. Insists he is not a writer – again and again. When a blog appears using a title that David had thought of, he doesn’t think much about it. Until he reads the posts. The rants that the author of that blog writes scare David. He becomes a bit paranoid. The blogger is writing about events surrounding David. Events where people die - violently. David knows these people, and they are dying in a manner that the blogger knows, maybe first-hand.
The blog is written by somebody called Lucky Newless. David had an imaginary friend as a child called Lucky. David is beginning to wonder if the blogger is that friend. He is starting to feel responsible for these deaths, even though the papers call them all accidents.
My Opinions: I didn’t like this book. I thought the supposed humor was in poor taste, and the writing did not seem stream-lined. The dialog between the characters all seemed false and cutting, and there really wasn’t a character I liked.
I stuck with it because it was given to me in exchange for an honest review, so I felt I had to keep reading it. I just hoped it would get better.
Overall, this book was just not for me. I struggled with it from beginning to end. I am, however, going to try something else by this rather prolific and well-respected author.
Someone Like Me by M.R. Carey is a psychological thriller/horror/supernatural marvel.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Orbit Books, and of Someone Like Me by M.R. Carey is a psychological thriller/horror/supernatural marvel.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Orbit Books, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
My Synopsis: 16-year old Fran Watts is the freaky girl at school. Everyone thinks she’s crazy. That’s okay, because she is. She has a right to be. When she was six years old, she was abducted by a crazy man, held in an old motel for 2 days, and almost killed because he thought there was something wrong with her shadow. Fran has never gotten over this ordeal, although there are a lot of blanks in her memory. She has an imaginary friend/fox called Lady J, or Jinx for short. Jinx is always there to protect her, dressed in armour and carrying a shiny sword. Fran has decided it is time to face her demons.
Liz Kendall is trying to raise her two kids on her own. 16-year old Zac and 6 year old Molly are her life. She has divorced her abusive husband, but Marc is still stalking her. When he attacks her in her own kitchen, Liz has had enough. But when she sees her hand breaking a bottle and repeatedly smashing it into her ex-husband’s face, she is scared. It doesn’t feel like her hand doing the damage. It does not feel like her anger. She is not in control. When she later becomes enraged and verbally and physically abuses a women in a parking lot, she is more than frightened. Where is this anger coming from? Why does it feel like there is someone else inside her trying to take control? She needs help.
When Liz and Zac run into Fran at the psychiatrists office, Fran sees two of Liz…and one of them is a monster. That monster is about to come out and take over, putting everyone in danger.
My Opinions: Another amazing book by M.R. Carey!
As always, Carey created wonderfully deep characters that you can relate to, a wonderful plot that you can immerse yourself in, and enough suspense to keep you on the edge of your seat.
The writing is good, as is the dialog. I loved the relationship between Liz and her kids, but I loved the one between Fran and her father even more. I loved the strength of both Liz and Fran.
I can’t say enough about this one. It is long, but the time just flies by. Highly recommend it.
Her Final Confession by Lisa Regan is the 4th in the Detective Josie Quinn Series.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Bookouture, and of courHer Final Confession by Lisa Regan is the 4th in the Detective Josie Quinn Series.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Bookouture, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Series Background (Warning – May contain spoilers from previous books): Josie Quinn was made a rather reluctant interim Chief of Police in Denton, Pennsylvania after solving a large case which resulted in the kidnapping, torture and deaths of many young girls in the area. A number of the perpetrators were on the police force, including her ex, Ray, who died during the take-down. Josie took his death hard. She re-built the force, and has been re-building her life. She has recently discovered she was kidnapped as a child, has a twin sister, and a whole new family.
My Synopsis: Josie is finally back where she belongs. She’s a detective again, after giving up her title of Chief of Police. Mind you, her co-workers still call her boss, and the new Chief is not her biggest fan, but she just wants to do her job. She has been seeing Detective Noah Fraley, and that is starting to show promise. Her new family is taking up a lot of her time.
When a young man turns up dead outside of Detective Gretchen Palmer’s house, and Gretchen is missing, Josie is hot on the trail. Even though everything points to Gretchen killing the man and then running, Josie doesn’t believe it. She had hired Gretchen, and she considers her a friend. She doesn’t believe Gretchen would commit this murder. As Josie investigates further, she discovers there is a lot about Gretchen’s past that she didn’t know. Nothing could surprise her more when Gretchen turns herself in and confesses to the crime. But Josie is still not sure. There had to be someone else involved, and Gretchen is definitely hiding something.
From biker gangs, to a serial murderer, to her friend’s stunning reveal, Josie has a lot to figure out in a limited amount of time.
My Opinions: This is a really good series, where the characters get deeper with each book.
For those that know me, you realize I am not a romance reader, but the Josie/Noah team seems to work seamlessly, and their romance is not overpowering.
Regan’s dialog and descriptions seem real, and the overall writing is clear. The plot is interesting and the twists good. The pace is fast – it was a really fast read.
Note that you could read this as a stand-alone novel, but reading the whole series in order brings you so much more information, that I would definitely read them all.
Forget Me Not by A.M. Taylor is a psychological thriller.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publishers Harper Impulse/Killer Reads, and of course the Forget Me Not by A.M. Taylor is a psychological thriller.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publishers Harper Impulse/Killer Reads, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
My Synopsis: 10 years have passed, and there are still no answers. 10 years since Nora went missing. The 17-year old’s car was found, but Nora was not. Her family and friends have not had closure. Her best friend, Maddie, has not really moved on. Nothing has gone right for Maddie since Nora disappeared.
On the anniversary of Nora’s disappearance, 17-year old Noelle is found murdered in the exact location where Nora went missing. Noelle (Elle) is Nora’s younger sister. Noelle is the same age as Nora was when she disappeared. Too many coincidences.
Maddie’s already fragile state of mind goes into overdrive, and she starts trying to track a murderer, hoping that she will also find out what really happened to Nora. She may find more than she wants.
My Opinions: First, as a debut novel, this was really good.
The story is told through a number of different avenues. Both Maddie’s current thoughts and her memories play a big role, but so do social media and the press coverage.
Although there were some early clues as to the perpetrator, the motive did not surface until close to the end, and meanwhile there were other possible culprits thrown in. The suspense built rather slowly, but the read was interesting.
The writing is good, the plot was interesting, and most of the characters had depth. I am looking forward to read whatever A.M. Taylor comes up with next!
The Fire Witness by Lars Kepler is the 3rd in the Detective Joona Linna Series.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Knopf Doubleday a4.5 stars
The Fire Witness by Lars Kepler is the 3rd in the Detective Joona Linna Series.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Knopf Doubleday and Vintage Crime/Black Lizard, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Series Background: Homicide Detective Joona Linna works for the National Criminal Investigation Department in Sweden. His father was a policeman who was killed on the job when Joona was 12, so he was raised by his mother. After his military service as a paratrooper, he was recruited into Special Operations, and qualified for special training in the Netherlands in mixed close combat, innovative weaponry, and urban guerrilla warfare. He is respected by his peers, and somewhat envied, but considered stubborn, and somewhat aloof. His need to be “right” is a strange quirk. His crime solve rate is high, probably because of his empathy. He can understand, but not condone, the criminal mind, and anticipates the perpetrators moves. He is driven, driven to keep going until the crime is solved. He suffers from a rare form of migraine, but refuses to take the drug when he is working a case, since it makes him drowsy.
My Synopsis: Joona is “on leave” pending an Internal Affairs Investigation into his behaviour on a past case. However, when there is a murder at a house for wayward girls, he is sent to “observe”. No one wants him there, and he isn’t supposed to do anything. That doesn’t stop Joona, who quickly finds a second body, and realizes Vicky, one of the girls in the home, is missing. He will not leave this case alone.
When a woman stops at the side of the road, badly in need of a bathroom break, she leaves her 4-year old son Dante in the backseat. Before her very eyes, a young girl comes out of the woods, gets into her car, and drives off with her son.
Vicky is on the run, but whether she is responsible for the murders at the home, or whether she is running in fear, not even Vicky knows.
Flora is down on her luck, and giving séances in the basement of a nearby building to earn cash. When she hears the news about the events at the girls home, she sees the murdered girl. Flora can’t believe she is actually seeing a ghost, but when the girl keeps re-appearing, Flora call the police. No one believes her. But Flora is slowly being driven crazy by these sightings, and she keeps calling. She eventually talks to Joona.
Meanwhile, Joona and Disa are back together, and we find out what happened to his wife and daughter.
My Opinions: I read this book many, many years ago, but when offered the ebook through NetGalley, I was more than willing to re-read it. I am again reminded why I loved Joona Linna. His mind works differently than others, and he sees what others cannot.
I love the fact that we learn about his past, although it looks like the next book may cover more of it. I am okay with that.
This book moved quickly, and although there were a lot of characters, nothing was confusing, and their individual stories all ended up being tied up in a nice bow.
I think my only complaint was the way the authors treated Saga Bauer (who made a brief appearance in this one, before heading back to her own series). Too many comments about her beauty, to the point that I think a sexual harassment case might be in order. (I deducted ½ star for this).
It was a great book, and I’m looking forward re-reading the next!
Last Lullaby by Carol Wyer is the 2nd in the Detective Natalie Ward series.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Bookouture, and of course the Last Lullaby by Carol Wyer is the 2nd in the Detective Natalie Ward series.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Bookouture, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Series Background (Warning – May contain spoilers from previous books): Natalie Ward is a strong female detective, but also a woman who is trying to juggle her job and her home life. Her husband had a gambling problem and lost all their savings. Then he lost his job, and he is now working from home. He is feeling inadequate, and Natalie finds herself constantly having to massage his fragile ego. Although she tries, she feels like she is neglecting her two children, even though they know that if she is on a murder investigation, it has to take precedence. She is often torn.
My Synopsis: Charlotte Brannon, a prolific fashion blogger is brutally murdered, while her 6-month old little boy lay in his crib in the next room. Charlotte’s husband Adam is the prime suspect. He had motive, means, and opportunity. He also insists he is innocent. His alibi is questionable, and his past is troubled.
As the case evolves, Natalie finds that her investigation is being hindered by lies. Everyone they question seems to be lying or omitting details that could help them solve this murder. Even the baby-sitter is hiding something. Everyone has an alibi, but the team isn’t sure if those can be trusted.
When another woman is murdered in front of her young son, Natalie fears they may have a serial killer on their hands. But there are connections between the two murdered women.
Meanwhile, a psychiatrist is trying to interpret the dreams of a patient who seems to be enthralled with blood. But are they dreams?
My Opinions: I am really enjoying this series. The writing is great, and Wyer is really building on the traits of her characters.
The pace is fast, and therefore a very quick read. The twists kept coming, so that I was sure I knew the perpetrator, and then I didn’t….
I admire Natalie, and her dedication to both her job and her family (although I think she should give her husband a kick in the butt). With this second book, we are seeing her team work closely, and we are learning more about their lives. This makes us crave the next book….that and the ending.
Kat (Katlovesbooks)
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Books:
reviewed-in-2018
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