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|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0008533490
| 9780008533496
| B0B85RCGXM
| 3.96
| 8,731
| Mar 02, 2023
| Mar 02, 2023
|
it was amazing
| The Institution by Helen Fields is the second in a series of books starring Forensic Psychologist Dr. Connie Woolwine. First, let me thank NetGalley, t The Institution by Helen Fields is the second in a series of books starring Forensic Psychologist Dr. Connie Woolwine. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Avon 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. Series Background: (Warning – May contain spoilers from previous books) Dr. Connie Woolwine is a colour-blind Forensic Psychologist from the U.S., who uses her profiling skills and rather unconventional methods to solve crimes world-wide. Her methods and demeanor are often considered "odd". She convinced ex London Detective Baarda to join her as an investigator, and now they work together full-time. The work in both the private sector and as consultants to government agencies. My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions) Connie is undercover at The Charles Horatio Parry Institution for the Rehabilitation of the Criminally Insane, known the Institution. It is located on a remote mountain, with one road in and out, with occasional helicopter service. She's on a locked psychiatric ward which houses the most dangerous men on earth. Only the director of the hospital knows why she is there. A murder has been hushed up. A nurse was brutally murdered, and her unborn child ripped out of her body. The child is being held for ransom, but due to the trauma and pre-mature caesarian section, they have a limited amount of time to find the perpetrators and the child. Connie finds both the residents and the staff to be suspicious, and finds herself at a loss as to who is responsible for the missing child. She is also having flashbacks of her own past, and feels the walls crumbling around her. My Opinions: This was wild. I absolutely loved the setting of an isolated mental institution with dangerous felons - and a storm coming in. Talk about atmosphere! I also love the relationship and banter between Connie and Baarda. The first book in the series had me struggling with the character of Connie, but this one cemented my love for her. She is tough, and as we learn more about her past, her strength and determination becomes more admirable. The plot was dark, twisted, and wonderful! I've always enjoyed books by this author, but this series has me really hooked. The characters, whether good or bad, had depth. The story moved quickly, and although the book is fairly long, it seemed to fly by. It was really intense! Anyway, I can't wait to see where Connie heads next! For a more complete review of this book and others, (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, as well as author information and contact details), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ Merged review: The Institution by Helen Fields is the second in a series of books starring Forensic Psychologist Dr. Connie Woolwine. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Avon 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. Series Background: (Warning – May contain spoilers from previous books) Dr. Connie Woolwine is a colour-blind Forensic Psychologist from the U.S., who uses her profiling skills and rather unconventional methods to solve crimes world-wide. Her methods and demeanor are often considered "odd". She convinced ex London Detective Baarda to join her as an investigator, and now they work together full-time. The work in both the private sector and as consultants to government agencies. My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions) Connie is undercover at The Charles Horatio Parry Institution for the Rehabilitation of the Criminally Insane, known the Institution. It is located on a remote mountain, with one road in and out, with occasional helicopter service. She's on a locked psychiatric ward which houses the most dangerous men on earth. Only the director of the hospital knows why she is there. A murder has been hushed up. A nurse was brutally murdered, and her unborn child ripped out of her body. The child is being held for ransom, but due to the trauma and pre-mature caesarian section, they have a limited amount of time to find the perpetrators and the child. Connie finds both the residents and the staff to be suspicious, and finds herself at a loss as to who is responsible for the missing child. She is also having flashbacks of her own past, and feels the walls crumbling around her. My Opinions: This was wild. I absolutely loved the setting of an isolated mental institution with dangerous felons - and a storm coming in. Talk about atmosphere! I also love the relationship and banter between Connie and Baarda. The first book in the series had me struggling with the character of Connie, but this one cemented my love for her. She is tough, and as we learn more about her past, her strength and determination becomes more admirable. The plot was dark, twisted, and wonderful! I've always enjoyed books by this author, but this series has me really hooked. The characters, whether good or bad, had depth. The story moved quickly, and although the book is fairly long, it seemed to fly by. It was really intense! Anyway, I can't wait to see where Connie heads next! For a more complete review of this book and others, (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, as well as author information and contact details), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ ...more |
Notes are private!
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2
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Mar 2023
not set
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Mar 10, 2023
not set
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Sep 28, 2024
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Kindle Edition
| ||||||||||||||
| 1786814447
| 9781786814449
| B07CNBKTPY
| 4.48
| 12,576
| Jul 19, 2018
| Jul 19, 2018
|
it was amazing
|
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 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. For a more complete review of this book and others, please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ Merged review: 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. For a more complete review of this book and others, please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ ...more |
Notes are private!
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2
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Jun 26, 2018
not set
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Jun 28, 2018
not set
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Sep 27, 2024
|
Kindle Edition
| ||||||||||||||
| 1786819112
| 9781786819116
| B07YB8ZS1B
| 3.98
| 311
| Dec 19, 2019
| Dec 19, 2019
|
really liked it
|
Why She Ran by Geraldine Hogan is the second in the Detective Iris Locke series. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Bookouture, and of course Why She Ran by Geraldine Hogan is the second in the Detective Iris Locke 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) Detective Iris Locke is on The Murder Team, a group specializing in handling homicides. The team consists of Inspector Coleman Grady, Sergeant Ben Slattery, a rather cantankerous man, but who Iris somehow bonded with; Detective Jo Pardy who is willing to walk over anyone to get her sergeant stripes; and their boss, Chief Superintendent Byrne. Iris has recently discovered that the family she grew up with was not really hers. My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions) Iris has been renting a room in a boarding house while her own apartment was being handled by the crime scene technicians. She's not sure she is ready to go back yet. Too much has happened. The man she thought of as her father is now dead, burned in the fire that he had set. The woman she thought of as her mother is alive, but Iris can't quite face her. Grady has been transferred, hopefully temporarily, to another city, and Iris is given the opportunity to take lead on the case of Rachel McDermott, whose dead body was found at Curlew Hall, a detox center for the children of the wealthy. Rachel was working there. Resident Eleanor Marshall, the daughter of a very wealthy man who owns half the city, is missing. Finding Eleanor is the main priority, as she has epilepsy, and without her medication, she could die. So...why did she run away? Is she guilty of killing Rachel? Did she see something? Iris is saddled with another officer, Tony Ahearn, who is itching for a promotion, and does not want to be under Iris's command. But she needs all the help she can get. Meanwhile, Iris is still trying to come to grips with the fact that her "parents", hid her true identity from her. Slattery is trying to cope with a wife who has the beginning stages of dementia. My Opinions: First, you really have to read the first book in this series, as Iris's background is really not explained as well as it could be in this book. The author sort of spread her history out throughout the book, and I would have preferred a more concise reminder, and this is really my only complaint. I am definitely enjoying this new series, which is set in Ireland. I really like Iris, who is a very hard-working and dedicated officer, filled with compassion. I love her relationship with Slattery, who we learned a lot more about in this one. Their conversations are often good-hearted teasing, and it feels very "real". I like how the story was told from multiple viewpoints, including the missing Eleanor. It was a great plot with good twists, and the writing is very smooth, although occasionally I found it moved slowly. Overall, a good series, and I'm looking forward to more. For a more complete review of this book and others, please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ Merged review: Why She Ran by Geraldine Hogan is the second in the Detective Iris Locke 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) Detective Iris Locke is on The Murder Team, a group specializing in handling homicides. The team consists of Inspector Coleman Grady, Sergeant Ben Slattery, a rather cantankerous man, but who Iris somehow bonded with; Detective Jo Pardy who is willing to walk over anyone to get her sergeant stripes; and their boss, Chief Superintendent Byrne. Iris has recently discovered that the family she grew up with was not really hers. My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions) Iris has been renting a room in a boarding house while her own apartment was being handled by the crime scene technicians. She's not sure she is ready to go back yet. Too much has happened. The man she thought of as her father is now dead, burned in the fire that he had set. The woman she thought of as her mother is alive, but Iris can't quite face her. Grady has been transferred, hopefully temporarily, to another city, and Iris is given the opportunity to take lead on the case of Rachel McDermott, whose dead body was found at Curlew Hall, a detox center for the children of the wealthy. Rachel was working there. Resident Eleanor Marshall, the daughter of a very wealthy man who owns half the city, is missing. Finding Eleanor is the main priority, as she has epilepsy, and without her medication, she could die. So...why did she run away? Is she guilty of killing Rachel? Did she see something? Iris is saddled with another officer, Tony Ahearn, who is itching for a promotion, and does not want to be under Iris's command. But she needs all the help she can get. Meanwhile, Iris is still trying to come to grips with the fact that her "parents", hid her true identity from her. Slattery is trying to cope with a wife who has the beginning stages of dementia. My Opinions: First, you really have to read the first book in this series, as Iris's background is really not explained as well as it could be in this book. The author sort of spread her history out throughout the book, and I would have preferred a more concise reminder, and this is really my only complaint. I am definitely enjoying this new series, which is set in Ireland. I really like Iris, who is a very hard-working and dedicated officer, filled with compassion. I love her relationship with Slattery, who we learned a lot more about in this one. Their conversations are often good-hearted teasing, and it feels very "real". I like how the story was told from multiple viewpoints, including the missing Eleanor. It was a great plot with good twists, and the writing is very smooth, although occasionally I found it moved slowly. Overall, a good series, and I'm looking forward to more. For a more complete review of this book and others, please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ ...more |
Notes are private!
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2
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Dec 17, 2019
not set
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Dec 19, 2019
not set
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Sep 27, 2024
|
ebook
| ||||||||||||||
| 1789317533
| 9781789317534
| B09166V4F7
| 4.13
| 1,117
| Apr 08, 2021
| Apr 08, 2021
|
liked it
| Coffin Cove by Jackie Elliott is the first in the series of the same name. It is a mystery novel. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Joffe B Coffin Cove by Jackie Elliott is the first in the series of the same name. It is a mystery novel. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Joffe Books (in particular Nina Kicul), 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: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions) Andi Silvers, a disgraced journalist, finds herself in Coffin Cove, a small logging and fishing town on Vancouver Island. After screwing up a story, and being dumped by her married co-worker, she had no choice but to leave. She is doing a lot of drinking and moping in her spare time, and she knows she has to shape up, or she won't even have a job at the small-town Gazette. When two sea lions turn up on the shore, both shot, local fisherman are blamed. But when a body turns up, also shot, definitive answers are needed. Andi is looking into the story, and she wonders if this actually ties into another death from 20 years ago that was never solved. There seems to be a lot going on in this small town. My Opinions: I have to admit to struggling with this one. I'm not really into logging or fishing, so Coffin Cove may not be my type of series. They say location is everything, and apparently it is in books as well. That being said, it was a really good mystery, twisting in a lot of different directions. The writing was fine, as were the characters. Yes, I figured out what was going on fairly early, but not everything, so that was good. What I did figure out didn't detract from the story. Overall, a good read. For a more complete review of this book and others (including my reason for choosing to read this, as well as author information), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ Merged review: Coffin Cove by Jackie Elliott is the first in the series of the same name. It is a mystery novel. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Joffe Books (in particular Nina Kicul), 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: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions) Andi Silvers, a disgraced journalist, finds herself in Coffin Cove, a small logging and fishing town on Vancouver Island. After screwing up a story, and being dumped by her married co-worker, she had no choice but to leave. She is doing a lot of drinking and moping in her spare time, and she knows she has to shape up, or she won't even have a job at the small-town Gazette. When two sea lions turn up on the shore, both shot, local fisherman are blamed. But when a body turns up, also shot, definitive answers are needed. Andi is looking into the story, and she wonders if this actually ties into another death from 20 years ago that was never solved. There seems to be a lot going on in this small town. My Opinions: I have to admit to struggling with this one. I'm not really into logging or fishing, so Coffin Cove may not be my type of series. They say location is everything, and apparently it is in books as well. That being said, it was a really good mystery, twisting in a lot of different directions. The writing was fine, as were the characters. Yes, I figured out what was going on fairly early, but not everything, so that was good. What I did figure out didn't detract from the story. Overall, a good read. For a more complete review of this book and others (including my reason for choosing to read this, as well as author information), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ ...more |
Notes are private!
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2
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Apr 2021
not set
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Apr 03, 2021
not set
|
Sep 26, 2024
|
ebook
| ||||||||||||||
| 1789317517
| 9781789317510
| B08ZJPQNCB
| 4.10
| 2,600
| Apr 14, 2021
| Apr 15, 2021
|
it was amazing
| 4.5 stars Knife Edge by Kerry Buchanan is the first in the new crime series starring Detectives Asha Harvey and Aaron Birch. First, let me thank NetGall 4.5 stars Knife Edge by Kerry Buchanan is the first in the new crime series starring Detectives Asha Harvey and Aaron Birch. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Joffe Books (in particular Nina Kicul for sending me a widget), 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 Information: DS Asha Harvey, along with DC Aaron Birch handle crime in Belfast, Ireland. My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions) Even though Nic hated nightclubs, she went out because she had promised a friend. Colm said he would go if she did. When she wakes up, she is naked, gagged, and her hands bound behind her. Her body is covered in knife wounds. Colm is across the room, and in worse shape than she is. When the man returned on the sixth day, and started in on Colm again, Nic broke free and ran. DS Asha Harvey and DC Aaron Birch locate the cabin where Nic was held, but Colm is nowhere to be found. Actually, other than the copious amounts of blood, the entire place was cleared out. DI Ram has come to Belfast to assist in the case. He has been following this particular perpetrator for some time. This is not the first "Slasher" case there has been, and Nic may not be the last. When someone close to her is taken, Nic is willing to do almost anything to end this nightmare. My Opinions: For a debut novel, this was simply amazing, and definitely made me want to read more of this series. The writing was really good. Occasionally the descriptions were a little lengthy, like the scene where Nic was in the fields looking for her sister, and again when Aaron and Nic were at the boat, both which caused me to skim a bit. But otherwise, things moved very quickly, and everything was so entertaining, that I only deducted 1/2 star for that. The characters were great. I love Asha and Aaron. I was surprised, and pleased, that a victim would play such a large role in the solving of the crime, and in the book. This is rarely done, so it was a pleasant occurrence, and it worked! As I said, the plot and twists were fabulous. I had guessed the perpetrator early on, but that really didn't matter. The ending was a shock, and totally appropriate! It even had a glossary of terms for "US readers"....which I didn't really think was necessary. This was just an amazing, entertaining read, and a great start to a new series. It grabbed me from the start and still had me at the end. The suspense and action was non-stop. Definitely one of those "unputdownable" novels. Rarely do I find one in a debut novel. I have found myself a new author to follow! I can't wait for the next one. For a more complete review of this book and others (including my reason for choosing to read this, author information and a favorite quotation from this book), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ Merged review: 4.5 stars Knife Edge by Kerry Buchanan is the first in the new crime series starring Detectives Asha Harvey and Aaron Birch. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Joffe Books (in particular Nina Kicul for sending me a widget), 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 Information: DS Asha Harvey, along with DC Aaron Birch handle crime in Belfast, Ireland. My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions) Even though Nic hated nightclubs, she went out because she had promised a friend. Colm said he would go if she did. When she wakes up, she is naked, gagged, and her hands bound behind her. Her body is covered in knife wounds. Colm is across the room, and in worse shape than she is. When the man returned on the sixth day, and started in on Colm again, Nic broke free and ran. DS Asha Harvey and DC Aaron Birch locate the cabin where Nic was held, but Colm is nowhere to be found. Actually, other than the copious amounts of blood, the entire place was cleared out. DI Ram has come to Belfast to assist in the case. He has been following this particular perpetrator for some time. This is not the first "Slasher" case there has been, and Nic may not be the last. When someone close to her is taken, Nic is willing to do almost anything to end this nightmare. My Opinions: For a debut novel, this was simply amazing, and definitely made me want to read more of this series. The writing was really good. Occasionally the descriptions were a little lengthy, like the scene where Nic was in the fields looking for her sister, and again when Aaron and Nic were at the boat, both which caused me to skim a bit. But otherwise, things moved very quickly, and everything was so entertaining, that I only deducted 1/2 star for that. The characters were great. I love Asha and Aaron. I was surprised, and pleased, that a victim would play such a large role in the solving of the crime, and in the book. This is rarely done, so it was a pleasant occurrence, and it worked! As I said, the plot and twists were fabulous. I had guessed the perpetrator early on, but that really didn't matter. The ending was a shock, and totally appropriate! It even had a glossary of terms for "US readers"....which I didn't really think was necessary. This was just an amazing, entertaining read, and a great start to a new series. It grabbed me from the start and still had me at the end. The suspense and action was non-stop. Definitely one of those "unputdownable" novels. Rarely do I find one in a debut novel. I have found myself a new author to follow! I can't wait for the next one. For a more complete review of this book and others (including my reason for choosing to read this, author information and a favorite quotation from this book), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ ...more |
Notes are private!
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2
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Apr 02, 2021
not set
|
Apr 04, 2021
not set
|
Sep 26, 2024
|
Kindle Edition
| ||||||||||||||
| 1838882294
| 9781838882297
| B0844S7ZKT
| 4.48
| 7,575
| Apr 14, 2020
| Apr 15, 2020
|
it was amazing
| Find Her Alive by Lisa Reganis the eighth in the Detective Josie Quinn series. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Bookouture, and of course t Find Her Alive by Lisa Reganis the eighth 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) Once Acting Chief of Police, Josie Quinn is now doing what she is best suited for. She’s back to being a detective and happy. She is learning to love her new-found family, but it is keeping her busy. So is dating Detective Noah Fraley. My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions) Josie's twin sister Trinity, a news reporter, has recently made a faux pas on air, and is "on leave". She has been spending the time with Josie and Noah, but nothing they do can raise her spirits. Reporting is her career. A heated disagreement with Josie has Trinity storming off, and renting a hunting cabin in the woods. Unknown to Josie, Trinity has been looking into a story, a cold case. A serial killer known as The Bone Artist was active in Pennsylvania years ago, but was never captured. Trinity has a lead. When no one hears from her sister, Josie checks out the hunting cabin, where she finds Trinity's car, her purse, her cell phone....and human remains. But it is quickly determined that the bones are not that of her sister. Now the hunt is on, for Trinity, and for the serial killer who kidnapped her. My Opinions: I think this is probably the best of the series so far. I really like the characters in these books. The author develops their personalities with each new book. The story was told from Josie's perspective, but a secondary character makes an appearance. A young boy named Alex is telling his story, and it is tragic. The plot was really good, and the action consistent, creating a very fast read. I must admit that I had guessed the identities of the perpetrator(s) about mid-point, but there was still a surprise or two in store. This was an emotional read, dealing with kidnapping, abuse, and mental health issues. Definitely worth looking into this series if you haven't already....but please start with the first book. For a more complete review of this book and others (including author information), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ Merged review: Find Her Alive by Lisa Reganis the eighth 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) Once Acting Chief of Police, Josie Quinn is now doing what she is best suited for. She’s back to being a detective and happy. She is learning to love her new-found family, but it is keeping her busy. So is dating Detective Noah Fraley. My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions) Josie's twin sister Trinity, a news reporter, has recently made a faux pas on air, and is "on leave". She has been spending the time with Josie and Noah, but nothing they do can raise her spirits. Reporting is her career. A heated disagreement with Josie has Trinity storming off, and renting a hunting cabin in the woods. Unknown to Josie, Trinity has been looking into a story, a cold case. A serial killer known as The Bone Artist was active in Pennsylvania years ago, but was never captured. Trinity has a lead. When no one hears from her sister, Josie checks out the hunting cabin, where she finds Trinity's car, her purse, her cell phone....and human remains. But it is quickly determined that the bones are not that of her sister. Now the hunt is on, for Trinity, and for the serial killer who kidnapped her. My Opinions: I think this is probably the best of the series so far. I really like the characters in these books. The author develops their personalities with each new book. The story was told from Josie's perspective, but a secondary character makes an appearance. A young boy named Alex is telling his story, and it is tragic. The plot was really good, and the action consistent, creating a very fast read. I must admit that I had guessed the identities of the perpetrator(s) about mid-point, but there was still a surprise or two in store. This was an emotional read, dealing with kidnapping, abuse, and mental health issues. Definitely worth looking into this series if you haven't already....but please start with the first book. For a more complete review of this book and others (including author information), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ ...more |
Notes are private!
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2
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Apr 18, 2020
not set
|
Apr 21, 2020
not set
|
Sep 24, 2024
|
ebook
| ||||||||||||||
| 1803147717
| 9781803147710
| B0B8DKKQR8
| 4.61
| 6,285
| Nov 09, 2022
| Nov 09, 2022
|
it was amazing
| 4.5 stars Hidden Scars by Angela Marsons is the 17th in the Detective Kim Stone Police Procedural series. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher B 4.5 stars Hidden Scars by Angela Marsons is the 17th in the Detective Kim Stone Police Procedural 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: (Contains spoilers from previous books) DI Kim Stone learned to be tough. Her mother, who recently died of cancer, was being held in a home for the criminally insane due to actions that almost killed Kim, and resulted in her brother's death. Kim had little to do with her. Although Kim's social skills are lacking, her heart is in the right place, and her detective skills outstanding . Her team consists of: Bryant, her right hand man and friend, and the person who voices concerns in a much more diplomatic way than Kim ever would; Stacey, who can find required information in a seemingly bottomless computer system; and Austen Penn, who for some reason, enjoys attending autopsies. My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions) Kim has been on leave, recovering from both the physical and emotional damage caused by her last case, where she was actually beaten to death before being rescued and brought back to life. Although not really ready to take on a case yet, she finds herself jumping in when she realizes that her team is being run by Burns, the man who is partly responsible for her beating, and who just wants to solve big cases to improve his image. Her first case will be heart-breaking. 19 year old Jamie Mills was found hanging from a tree, his death made to look like suicide, but Kim quickly determines he was murdered. His parents just want the whole thing buried. It turns out that Jamie was gay, and that is unacceptable to them. They had sent him to a clinic to "cure" him of his sexuality. It didn't work. When another young woman's death also looked like suicide, it is quickly linked to Jamie's when it is discovered that Stephanie had attended the same clinic. The Gardner family, who run the clinic are not very helpful, and insist their methods for curing homosexuality are legal and humane. If so, why are patient's required to sign NDA's. Kim's not buying it. Meanwhile, Stacey is trying to find a missing accountant, but feels it may just be a case of him leaving his wife. But she may be missing something. Even while devoting herself to the job, Kim is struggling emotionally. She is feeling guilt over her neighbours abuse at the hands of the man who wanted to kill Kim. More importantly, Kim is feeling guilty because she is alive. Then there are the nightmares. My Opinions: I continue to deduct ½ of a star for these really outdated, unappealing covers. But this book was amazing, and although it's touted as "can be read as a stand-alone", I totally disagree. Please read every book - and read them in order. Be warned, the topics covered in this book are dark, scary, and disgusting. Homophobia and conversion therapy are never going to be light topics. However, Marsons handled them very well, with a lot of sensitivity, while still being very forthright. The plot was really good, and although one of the twists was expected, another was not. The characters continue to appeal, and I particularly liked the interplay between Penn and Jasper. The team is a family, and in this one Kim really admits that Bryant is a friend. I also liked that both Tracy Frost and Ted Morgan made appearances at Kim's house to show their friendship, even though Kim has not really seen them as such. One of my favorite things.....Bryant has a first name!!!! Anyway, after 17 books, you would think they would be getting "old", but each books is fresh, and I can't wait for the next one! For a more complete review of this book and others, (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, as well as author information and contact details), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ Merged review: 4.5 stars Hidden Scars by Angela Marsons is the 17th in the Detective Kim Stone Police Procedural 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: (Contains spoilers from previous books) DI Kim Stone learned to be tough. Her mother, who recently died of cancer, was being held in a home for the criminally insane due to actions that almost killed Kim, and resulted in her brother's death. Kim had little to do with her. Although Kim's social skills are lacking, her heart is in the right place, and her detective skills outstanding . Her team consists of: Bryant, her right hand man and friend, and the person who voices concerns in a much more diplomatic way than Kim ever would; Stacey, who can find required information in a seemingly bottomless computer system; and Austen Penn, who for some reason, enjoys attending autopsies. My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions) Kim has been on leave, recovering from both the physical and emotional damage caused by her last case, where she was actually beaten to death before being rescued and brought back to life. Although not really ready to take on a case yet, she finds herself jumping in when she realizes that her team is being run by Burns, the man who is partly responsible for her beating, and who just wants to solve big cases to improve his image. Her first case will be heart-breaking. 19 year old Jamie Mills was found hanging from a tree, his death made to look like suicide, but Kim quickly determines he was murdered. His parents just want the whole thing buried. It turns out that Jamie was gay, and that is unacceptable to them. They had sent him to a clinic to "cure" him of his sexuality. It didn't work. When another young woman's death also looked like suicide, it is quickly linked to Jamie's when it is discovered that Stephanie had attended the same clinic. The Gardner family, who run the clinic are not very helpful, and insist their methods for curing homosexuality are legal and humane. If so, why are patient's required to sign NDA's. Kim's not buying it. Meanwhile, Stacey is trying to find a missing accountant, but feels it may just be a case of him leaving his wife. But she may be missing something. Even while devoting herself to the job, Kim is struggling emotionally. She is feeling guilt over her neighbours abuse at the hands of the man who wanted to kill Kim. More importantly, Kim is feeling guilty because she is alive. Then there are the nightmares. My Opinions: I continue to deduct ½ of a star for these really outdated, unappealing covers. But this book was amazing, and although it's touted as "can be read as a stand-alone", I totally disagree. Please read every book - and read them in order. Be warned, the topics covered in this book are dark, scary, and disgusting. Homophobia and conversion therapy are never going to be light topics. However, Marsons handled them very well, with a lot of sensitivity, while still being very forthright. The plot was really good, and although one of the twists was expected, another was not. The characters continue to appeal, and I particularly liked the interplay between Penn and Jasper. The team is a family, and in this one Kim really admits that Bryant is a friend. I also liked that both Tracy Frost and Ted Morgan made appearances at Kim's house to show their friendship, even though Kim has not really seen them as such. One of my favorite things.....Bryant has a first name!!!! Anyway, after 17 books, you would think they would be getting "old", but each books is fresh, and I can't wait for the next one! For a more complete review of this book and others, (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, as well as author information and contact details), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ ...more |
Notes are private!
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2
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Oct 09, 2022
not set
|
Nov 09, 2022
not set
|
Sep 23, 2024
|
ebook
| ||||||||||||||
| 1786818787
| 9781786818782
| B07QQ34JBX
| 4.26
| 1,997
| Jul 12, 2019
| Jul 16, 2019
|
really liked it
| The Girl in the Grave by Helen Phifer is the first in the Forensic Pathologist Beth Adams series. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Bookoutu The Girl in the Grave by Helen Phifer is the first in the Forensic Pathologist Beth Adams 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. My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions) Dr. Elizabeth (Beth) Adams is called when the body of a young woman is found in the same grave as an elderly woman who they were exhuming. Unsure if the two corpses are related, she hopes to discover more after she performs the autopsies. Detective Josh Walker is in charge of the investigation, and Beth is thankful that her close friend will be handling this. Meanwhile, Beth is still coming to terms with her own near-death experience. Adding extra security around her home and taking self-defense classes is helping, but she is still on edge. It looks like she may have reason to be fearful. My Opinions: I love getting in on the ground floor of a new series. Especially when it has an interesting and fresh character such as Beth Adams. In particular, I like the fact that this series will center around a female forensic pathologist instead of a detective. It's a nice change, and there were even references to Quincy (I'm feeling old) and Kay Scarpetta. Not only was the premise of a forensic pathologist helping to solve a crime good, but the plot was interesting. I loved Josh Walker as her side-kick, as they seemed to have a natural chemistry, and they've already had a long friendship, so if things develop....I'm okay with it (even though I am not a romance reader). It was action-packed, and a really fast read. The author has already established herself as a "series" author, so I am sure that starting a new series must be a little scary. This one worked! I thoroughly enjoyed it, although it seemed a little "light", and I am looking forward to more! Merged review: The Girl in the Grave by Helen Phifer is the first in the Forensic Pathologist Beth Adams 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. My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions) Dr. Elizabeth (Beth) Adams is called when the body of a young woman is found in the same grave as an elderly woman who they were exhuming. Unsure if the two corpses are related, she hopes to discover more after she performs the autopsies. Detective Josh Walker is in charge of the investigation, and Beth is thankful that her close friend will be handling this. Meanwhile, Beth is still coming to terms with her own near-death experience. Adding extra security around her home and taking self-defense classes is helping, but she is still on edge. It looks like she may have reason to be fearful. My Opinions: I love getting in on the ground floor of a new series. Especially when it has an interesting and fresh character such as Beth Adams. In particular, I like the fact that this series will center around a female forensic pathologist instead of a detective. It's a nice change, and there were even references to Quincy (I'm feeling old) and Kay Scarpetta. Not only was the premise of a forensic pathologist helping to solve a crime good, but the plot was interesting. I loved Josh Walker as her side-kick, as they seemed to have a natural chemistry, and they've already had a long friendship, so if things develop....I'm okay with it (even though I am not a romance reader). It was action-packed, and a really fast read. The author has already established herself as a "series" author, so I am sure that starting a new series must be a little scary. This one worked! I thoroughly enjoyed it, although it seemed a little "light", and I am looking forward to more! ...more |
Notes are private!
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2
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Jul 22, 2019
not set
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Jul 23, 2019
not set
|
Sep 21, 2024
|
Kindle Edition
| ||||||||||||||
| 1789317150
| 9781789317152
| B08WCN65JL
| 4.22
| 3,322
| Feb 25, 2021
| Feb 25, 2021
|
liked it
| The Faceless Man by Helen H. Durrant is the second in the Detectives Lennox & Wilde series. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Joffe Books, a The Faceless Man by Helen H. Durrant is the second in the Detectives Lennox & Wilde series. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Joffe 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. Series Background: (Warning – May contain spoilers from previous books) DI Harry Lennox and DS Jess Wilde are detectives in Ryebridge in Northern England. They have been working together for the last couple of years. Harry's past is slowly coming to light, as we have learned that both his twin brother Paul and his father were killed in a suspicious fire in Scotland, while Harry was trying to take down a crime lord. He doesn't talk about it, and his true identity is being brought into question. He has recently had to find other sleeping arrangements as his friend's campervan was set ablaze, hoping for Harry's demise. Jess is living with her parents, but saving for a house of her own. Their boss is Superintendent Roderick Croft. My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions) When the body of teenager Dean Greenwood is found stabbed to death in a local park, Harry and Jess learn that the young man felt he was on the hunt for a serial killer. It looks like he may have been right, and it got him killed. Dean's bedroom walls and computers were a wealth of information, and identifying the pictures on his boards lead them to other murders and to three as-yet unidentified people that may be the killer's next victims. One of them is just a blank cut-out of a faceless man. So Jess and Harry, with the assistance of officer Colin Vance, are trying to track down these people before they are the next victims of this killer. Meanwhile, Harry is still being hounded by his past. My Opinions: Still not positive I like the characters. Harry works on "instinct", and Jess works with facts. That sounds great, but they are often at odds with each other, which sometimes makes for tense reading. Harry is still hiding stuff about his past, and Jess is still nit-picking. By the end of the book things were a bit better. Again, a couple of things were dropped, for example did they ever look into what officer took and ignored Dean's original call? I'm still not convinced this series is going to live up to my expectations. I love the author, and her writing is good. The plot was interesting and the twists good, but I think it's just that I'm not sure about the characters. They aren't really growing on me. However, it was still a fast and entertaining read. For a more complete review of this book and others (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, as well as author information), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ Merged review: The Faceless Man by Helen H. Durrant is the second in the Detectives Lennox & Wilde series. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Joffe 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. Series Background: (Warning – May contain spoilers from previous books) DI Harry Lennox and DS Jess Wilde are detectives in Ryebridge in Northern England. They have been working together for the last couple of years. Harry's past is slowly coming to light, as we have learned that both his twin brother Paul and his father were killed in a suspicious fire in Scotland, while Harry was trying to take down a crime lord. He doesn't talk about it, and his true identity is being brought into question. He has recently had to find other sleeping arrangements as his friend's campervan was set ablaze, hoping for Harry's demise. Jess is living with her parents, but saving for a house of her own. Their boss is Superintendent Roderick Croft. My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions) When the body of teenager Dean Greenwood is found stabbed to death in a local park, Harry and Jess learn that the young man felt he was on the hunt for a serial killer. It looks like he may have been right, and it got him killed. Dean's bedroom walls and computers were a wealth of information, and identifying the pictures on his boards lead them to other murders and to three as-yet unidentified people that may be the killer's next victims. One of them is just a blank cut-out of a faceless man. So Jess and Harry, with the assistance of officer Colin Vance, are trying to track down these people before they are the next victims of this killer. Meanwhile, Harry is still being hounded by his past. My Opinions: Still not positive I like the characters. Harry works on "instinct", and Jess works with facts. That sounds great, but they are often at odds with each other, which sometimes makes for tense reading. Harry is still hiding stuff about his past, and Jess is still nit-picking. By the end of the book things were a bit better. Again, a couple of things were dropped, for example did they ever look into what officer took and ignored Dean's original call? I'm still not convinced this series is going to live up to my expectations. I love the author, and her writing is good. The plot was interesting and the twists good, but I think it's just that I'm not sure about the characters. They aren't really growing on me. However, it was still a fast and entertaining read. For a more complete review of this book and others (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, as well as author information), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ ...more |
Notes are private!
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2
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Jun 23, 2021
not set
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Jun 25, 2021
not set
|
Sep 20, 2024
|
Kindle Edition
| ||||||||||||||
| 1601837488
| 9781601837486
| B01AEQB4J0
| 3.46
| 570
| Sep 21, 2015
| Sep 27, 2016
|
really liked it
|
3.5 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 un 3.5 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. For a more complete review of this book and others, please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ Merged review: 3.5 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. For a more complete review of this book and others, please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ ...more |
Notes are private!
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2
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not set
not set
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Jul 31, 2018
not set
|
Sep 18, 2024
|
ebook
| ||||||||||||||
| 1786814250
| 9781786814258
| B07FZSWKD4
| 4.33
| 1,702
| Sep 17, 2018
| Sep 18, 2018
|
really liked it
|
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! For a more complete review of this book and others, please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ Merged review: 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! For a more complete review of this book and others, please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ ...more |
Notes are private!
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2
|
Sep 04, 2018
not set
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Sep 06, 2018
not set
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Sep 17, 2024
|
ebook
| ||||||||||||||
| 1835256236
| 9781835256237
| B0DBHQR17R
| 4.42
| 114
| unknown
| Aug 27, 2024
|
None
|
Notes are private!
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1
|
Sep 30, 2024
|
not set
|
Aug 27, 2024
|
Kindle Edition
| |||||||||||||||
| 183525621X
| 9781835256213
| B0D94GH21V
| 4.29
| 172
| unknown
| Aug 27, 2024
|
really liked it
| 3.5 stars Gone by Dawn by H.K. Christie is the first in the FBI Agent Val Costa series. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Bookouture and of c 3.5 stars Gone by Dawn by H.K. Christie is the first in the FBI Agent Val Costa 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 Information: FBI Agent Val Costa lives in DC and has an 18-year old son Harrison who is starting at MIT. She is middle-aged, and divorced. She has a sister Maxine, who is a major in the U.S. Army. Their mom lives in Red Rose County, California, and is a retired sheriff. Val's boss is Kieran. My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions) FBI Agent Val Costa is supposed to be on medical leave to recover from an attack by the serial killer known as the Bear. She's only one of two women that have survived his brutality. Val now has his signature "S" carved into her. The Bear is still at large. So she and her son are staying with Val's mom in California, looking forward to a little bonding time before Harrison starts at MIT. They are all a little tense knowing that the Bear is still out there somewhere, and he may want to get Val back. Her boss has instructed her to see a therapist. and stay low. But when Scarlett Douglas, a local teenager goes missing, Val can't help but get involved. Red Rose County is a close-knit community, so Val feels obligated to help. She will work with Deputy Brady Tanner as a "consultant". He is an old high school friend. Against Kieran's orders, Val goes to see the Douglas family, and finds out that Scarlett was housebound due to a devastating diagnosis, and now she is missing. Val is determined to bring her back to her family. But she feels that May and Jack, Scarlett's parents, are keeping something from the investigators. In the back of her mind, the Bear is still causing her nightmares, and Val worries about the safety of her family. She has a lot on her plate. Meanwhile, Ava, who runs the Grace Center to help the homeless, is missing some of her regular visitors. Over the last few weeks, three teenagers have failed to appear, and although the police don't seem interested in three missing homeless people, Ava is determined to find them. My Opinions: This may turn out to be an interesting series, but the verdict is still out. Although her heart is in the right place, I didn't always like Val, who doesn't seem to obey anyone's orders. She's a little too headstrong. However, she is a strong female protagonist who is trying to juggle motherhood, work, and an aging parent. That was interesting, and I'm looking forward to seeing that progress. I loved her mom. Brady seems a little too meek, and I don't particularly like the idea that they may hook up. I think Val would just run right over him. The plot was really good, but there were not really any major surprises. It seemed very predictable. However, I still enjoyed the process. I didn't like the fact that there is this big "thing" hanging over Val's head which was not solved in this book, and therefore encourages the reader to buy book #2... That always annoys me. I did like how the author wove the different threads of Ava's story and Val's investigation together, although somewhat slowly. So overall, this was quite good. I'm looking forward to seeing how things progress in the next book. For a more complete review of this book and others (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, as well as author information), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
|
Aug 20, 2024
|
Aug 27, 2024
|
Aug 27, 2024
|
Kindle Edition
| ||||||||||||||
| 1662512260
| 9781662512261
| B0CKY25VRX
| 4.48
| 1,483
| Sep 03, 2024
| Aug 27, 2024
|
really liked it
| Leave No Trace by D.S. Butler is the 9th in the Detective Karen Hart series. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Thomas & Mercer, and of cours Leave No Trace by D.S. Butler is the 9th in the Detective Karen Hart series. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Thomas & Mercer, 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) DS Karen Hart lost her husband Josh and her daughter Tilly in a car accident. She later discovered it wasn't an accident, but it was covered up by some corrupt police officials. She currently works with DI Scott Morgan, DC Sophie Jones, and DC Rick Cooper. Their boss is DCI Churchill. She has recently started dating Mike. My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions) Eleven year old Tommy Burton disappears just meters from his mother while on an trip to Tattershall Castle. A small blue teddy bear was left at the scene. Morgan has to re-examine a 15 year old case where 3 boys were kidnapped, killed, and a blue teddy bear was left behind. The perpetrator is still in jail, but now Morgan is starting to doubt the findings in the old case. Or is it a copycat? He decides to talk to his old boss, who is now retired, but who had worked on the case with Morgan. Eventually, Morgan starts to doubt his old boss. However, Morgan's personality is very rigid, and he triple-checks everything. Everything is black or white for him, so he may be over-thinking the past case. Meanwhile, Sophie is at home recovering from the beating she received in their last case. Recovery is going to be long, and she's feeling useless. My Opinions: I'm not sure why, but this one dragged a little. It seemed to take forever to get going. I loved the plot, and although I didn't initially get the motive, I did pick the right perpetrator. I loved the twists. No one was who they seemed. I don't really like children in the mysteries I read, and this proved my point. They can be brats! The different personalities really shone through in this one, and I could really see both points of view...follow the rules, or be a little reckless. It was really interesting. The writing showed that the team really cares about one another, even if their opinions differ. As well, the chapters alternated between Morgan and Karen, so we knew where their minds went. Anyway, another great addition to the series. For a more complete review of this book and others (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, as well as author information), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ ...more |
Notes are private!
|
2
|
Aug 03, 2024
not set
|
Aug 17, 2024
not set
|
Aug 17, 2024
|
Kindle Edition
| ||||||||||||||
| 3.90
| 1,601
| Aug 15, 2024
| Aug 27, 2024
|
really liked it
| Talking To Strangers by Fiona Barton is the second in FBI Agent Elise King series. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Berkley Publishing and Talking To Strangers by Fiona Barton is the second in FBI Agent Elise King series. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Berkley Publishing and Penguin Random House Canada 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 Elise King is now living in Ebbing. After almost ten years together, Hugh had left her for a younger woman. Elise is now back at work, but still feeling the effects of chemo after her mastectomy. She works with DS Caro Brennan. The coroner is Aoife Mortimer. Elise's friend and neighbour Ronnie, although nosy, seems to know everyone in town, so sometimes she's quite helpful. So is reporter Kiki Nunn. My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions) The body of 44-year-old Karen Simmons is found in Knapton Wood. Kiki Nunn, a journalist, is trying to get her career back on track, and she is determined to make this story the one to do it. Luckily, she had met Karen the week before when she was interviewing women for an article she was writing regarding romance and on-line dating. So Kiki already knew about the dating apps Karen was using, and some of the creeps she had met. That is what Kiki is going to write about, and she plans on delving into it herself. Elise and her team are concentrating on the local men that Karen was dating. Kiki's interference is messing with Elise's case. Meanwhile, a 16 year old cold case comes into play. Annie's son Archie was killed in the same woods where Karen was found. The family has never been the same. My Opinions: I was thrilled when I heard about another Elise King book. My wish from my last review came true! Elise is a strong protagonist, and she has a great team behind her. I liked how the chapters were outlined in consecutive days, since the last book used a back and forth timeline. The story was mainly told by Elise and Kiki, as well as grieving mother Annie. That worked really well. The book was about sexual predators, on-line dating, and victim-shaming. It was also about loneliness and family. The plot held my interest from start to finish, and although I correctly identified the killer, it wasn't until the end that I was proven right. I found the pace fast, and the book was done in no time. I can't wait for the next in this series! For a more complete review of this book and others (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, as well as author information and contact details), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ ...more |
Notes are private!
|
1
|
Aug 13, 2024
|
Aug 21, 2024
|
Aug 11, 2024
|
ebook
| |||||||||||||||||
| 1805084224
| 9781805084228
| B0D2Q4SKT1
| 3.93
| 113
| unknown
| Aug 19, 2024
|
really liked it
| 3.5 stars The Safe House by Sam Baron is the third in the FBI Agent Susan Parker series. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Storm Publishing 3.5 stars The Safe House by Sam Baron is the third in the FBI Agent Susan Parker series. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Storm Publishing 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 - Contains spoilers from previous books) FBI Agent Susan Parker has been with the bureau over 10 years. Her team consists of Special agents Ramon Diaz, Kayla Regis, and David Moskovitch, with Trainee agent Brine Thomas. They work with Chief Evidence Investigator Marisol Mancini. Detective Naved Seth from the local police force has been working with the group as a liaison. Their old boss Deputy Director Connor Gentry is on leave pending some disciplinary action, and Deputy Director Zimal Bukhari has stepped in. Susan is a single mother to 7 year-old Natalie, who is deaf, but her sister-in-law Lata has been helping out since Susan's husband Amit was murdered. Susan's mother-in-law and her brother are antagonistic towards her, but her father-in-law is loving. Recently Susan's home was burned to the ground by a serial killer targeting Susan. My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions) Ramon seeks Susan's assistance when an underground safe house for illegal immigrants is blown up -- with the people still inside. No one survived. Although this is too "hot" of a political issue for any of the police agencies or FBI to handle, Susan is given permission to go off the books and look into it. She won't get much help, but she's allowed to use her team. They quickly determine that this was a mass murder, and everything leads to someone that the refugees call "the Saint", who has been their savior in the past. It may be that things have changed, as their savior may be the bomber. The Saint apparently has some type of military background. Things are about to get tense. Meanwhile, Susan and Lata are staying with the in-laws while they fight with insurance over the money from their house being burnt to the ground. Things are not going well. Then, Susan gets some disturbing news from Naved, who has been looking into her hubsand's murder. My Opinions: This was really interesting. I loved the plot from start to finish. Again, the characters are really good. Susan and her team are definitely a family. I'm getting sick of her mother-in-law and her brother. I'm hoping that their storyline will end soon. At first I was annoyed that the author added so much diversity to her characters -- it seemed forced -- so many different ethnicities, sexual orientations, and people with disabilities within the series. I'm now used to the inclusivity...or maybe not, as I am still thinking about it. I'm hoping that the questions about Amit will be dealt with soon. It's annoying that it goes from book to book to book without being finished. Okay, as much as I complain, these books are really interesting, and I'm looking forward to the next book.. For a more complete review of this book and others (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, as well as author information), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Jul 09, 2024
|
Aug 09, 2024
|
Aug 09, 2024
|
Kindle Edition
| ||||||||||||||
| 1789318424
| 9781789318425
| B095KTWGNN
| 4.34
| 1,237
| Jun 03, 2021
| Jun 03, 2021
|
really liked it
| Small Bones by Kerry Buchanan is the second in the new detective series starring Detectives Asha Harvey and Aaron Birch. First, let me thank NetGalley, Small Bones by Kerry Buchanan is the second in the new detective series starring Detectives Asha Harvey and Aaron Birch. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Joffe Books (in particular Nina Kicul for sending me a widget), 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) Detectives Asha Harvey, and Aaron Birch handle crime in Belfast, Ireland. Asha is always trying to prove herself as the rare Indian woman in a largely white, male police force. Aaron, too is trying to prove himself, because he became a detective through a graduate recruitment scheme, so his fellow officers think he jumped procedures. Their boss is CS Yvonne Patterson, who can be a little abrupt. My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions) Asha is now Acting Detective Inspector of the branch, and she feels even more determined to prove herself capable. When the remains of a child are found in a garden, she is right there. Sue Hearn was planting a herb garden, outside the family estate. It is just her and her father left, and he has dementia. She didn't expect to find a child's skeleton on the site of her grandfather's old greenhouse. Asha and Aaron start trying to finding out the identity of the child, and also start looking into the disappearance of Sue's mother when Sue was just a teenager. It seems she went missing about 30 years ago, which is also along the timeline that the body had been buried. Sue's father has been talking to her about her missing mother lately, and seems to be under the impression it could have been a policeman who was responsible. But with his memory issues, how much does Sue believe. As the investigation continues, it appears that Sue's father may have been right, and now more lives are in danger. My Opinions: This is only the author's second novel (and the second in the series), and it is really good. The author continues to prove herself as the books are well-written and the plots good. Yes, sometimes the descriptions are a little long, but all in all, I enjoyed the from start to finish. The characters are great. I love both Asha and Aaron. Again, I was pleased that the victim (Sue) was very involved in the book. The story is told from different perspectives, and I really enjoyed Sue's take on everything that was happening around her. As in the first, the book had a glossary of terms for "US readers". Maybe I have read enough British authors, but this didn't really seem necessary. The book ended in a bit of a cliffhanger, and but definitely peaked my interest in reading the next book. For a more complete review of this book and others (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, as well as author information), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ Merged review: Small Bones by Kerry Buchanan is the second in the new detective series starring Detectives Asha Harvey and Aaron Birch. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Joffe Books (in particular Nina Kicul for sending me a widget), 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) Detectives Asha Harvey, and Aaron Birch handle crime in Belfast, Ireland. Asha is always trying to prove herself as the rare Indian woman in a largely white, male police force. Aaron, too is trying to prove himself, because he became a detective through a graduate recruitment scheme, so his fellow officers think he jumped procedures. Their boss is CS Yvonne Patterson, who can be a little abrupt. My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions) Asha is now Acting Detective Inspector of the branch, and she feels even more determined to prove herself capable. When the remains of a child are found in a garden, she is right there. Sue Hearn was planting a herb garden, outside the family estate. It is just her and her father left, and he has dementia. She didn't expect to find a child's skeleton on the site of her grandfather's old greenhouse. Asha and Aaron start trying to finding out the identity of the child, and also start looking into the disappearance of Sue's mother when Sue was just a teenager. It seems she went missing about 30 years ago, which is also along the timeline that the body had been buried. Sue's father has been talking to her about her missing mother lately, and seems to be under the impression it could have been a policeman who was responsible. But with his memory issues, how much does Sue believe. As the investigation continues, it appears that Sue's father may have been right, and now more lives are in danger. My Opinions: This is only the author's second novel (and the second in the series), and it is really good. The author continues to prove herself as the books are well-written and the plots good. Yes, sometimes the descriptions are a little long, but all in all, I enjoyed the from start to finish. The characters are great. I love both Asha and Aaron. Again, I was pleased that the victim (Sue) was very involved in the book. The story is told from different perspectives, and I really enjoyed Sue's take on everything that was happening around her. As in the first, the book had a glossary of terms for "US readers". Maybe I have read enough British authors, but this didn't really seem necessary. The book ended in a bit of a cliffhanger, and but definitely peaked my interest in reading the next book. For a more complete review of this book and others (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, as well as author information), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ ...more |
Notes are private!
|
2
|
May 28, 2021
not set
|
May 30, 2021
not set
|
Aug 01, 2024
|
Kindle Edition
| ||||||||||||||
| 1789311551
| 9781789311556
| B07VJ47P2F
| 4.27
| 3,086
| Jul 31, 2019
| Jul 31, 2019
|
liked it
| Two Victims by Helen H. Durrant is the second in the Detective Rachel King series. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Joffe Books, and of c Two Victims by Helen H. Durrant is the second in the Detective Rachel King series. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Joffe 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. Series Background: (Warning – May contain spoilers from previous books) DCI Rachel King is with the serious crime squad for east Manchester. Her team consists of: DS Elwyn Pryce, her long-time colleague and friend; DC Jonny Farrell, the newest member of the team, and still a little green; and DC Amy Metcalfe, who shows potential, but is a bit unreliable. Rachel went through a somewhat amicable divorce and her husband bought the house next door in order to help raise their two teenage daughters. Although Rachel knows she cannot have a relationship with her first love Jed McAteer due to his criminal background, he is hard to forget. Only her partner knows of their relationship, and the fact that her youngest daughter is actually McAteer's. My Synopsis: Two bodies are found in a building site that Jed McAteer is developing into housing. Both shot in the head. One, Agnes Moore, is a local nurse who seems to be helping homeless young women every chance she gets. The other young girl is harder to identify. When Rachel's investigation leads her to another dead body, she steps on the toes of DCI Mark Kenton from another district, who insists on taking over. Apparently he is working on a human trafficking ring, and has been doing so for a long time. Rachel doesn't want to let go, but her boss seems to be siding with DCI Kenton. Rachel, of course, pushes back, and continues to do whatever she wants. My Opinions: This was another fast-paced story, and a very easy read. I am still unsure about Rachel. She's definitely a hard worker, but.... I still think her parenting skills are lacking, and her temper is a little out there. She seems very unprofessional in her work. Overall I am having a hard time liking her, which makes the books a little off-putting. I rather like the supporting cast (Elwyn, Jed, her daughters) better. The plot was good, and although I did guess the perpetrator early on, I could not determine the motive. Again, there was an appendix at the back of the book showing a list of British slang, which, as a Canadian, I find helpful (sort of wish it was at the beginning of the book). Overall, it was only an okay read, but I'm going to stick with the series, if only to see where it goes from here. For a more complete review of this book and others, please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ Merged review: Two Victims by Helen H. Durrant is the second in the Detective Rachel King series. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Joffe 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. Series Background: (Warning – May contain spoilers from previous books) DCI Rachel King is with the serious crime squad for east Manchester. Her team consists of: DS Elwyn Pryce, her long-time colleague and friend; DC Jonny Farrell, the newest member of the team, and still a little green; and DC Amy Metcalfe, who shows potential, but is a bit unreliable. Rachel went through a somewhat amicable divorce and her husband bought the house next door in order to help raise their two teenage daughters. Although Rachel knows she cannot have a relationship with her first love Jed McAteer due to his criminal background, he is hard to forget. Only her partner knows of their relationship, and the fact that her youngest daughter is actually McAteer's. My Synopsis: Two bodies are found in a building site that Jed McAteer is developing into housing. Both shot in the head. One, Agnes Moore, is a local nurse who seems to be helping homeless young women every chance she gets. The other young girl is harder to identify. When Rachel's investigation leads her to another dead body, she steps on the toes of DCI Mark Kenton from another district, who insists on taking over. Apparently he is working on a human trafficking ring, and has been doing so for a long time. Rachel doesn't want to let go, but her boss seems to be siding with DCI Kenton. Rachel, of course, pushes back, and continues to do whatever she wants. My Opinions: This was another fast-paced story, and a very easy read. I am still unsure about Rachel. She's definitely a hard worker, but.... I still think her parenting skills are lacking, and her temper is a little out there. She seems very unprofessional in her work. Overall I am having a hard time liking her, which makes the books a little off-putting. I rather like the supporting cast (Elwyn, Jed, her daughters) better. The plot was good, and although I did guess the perpetrator early on, I could not determine the motive. Again, there was an appendix at the back of the book showing a list of British slang, which, as a Canadian, I find helpful (sort of wish it was at the beginning of the book). Overall, it was only an okay read, but I'm going to stick with the series, if only to see where it goes from here. For a more complete review of this book and others, please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ ...more |
Notes are private!
|
2
|
Jul 25, 2019
not set
|
Jul 27, 2019
not set
|
Jul 31, 2024
|
Kindle Edition
| ||||||||||||||
| 1835255329
| 9781835255322
| B0D3JTSXHQ
| 4.40
| 657
| unknown
| Jul 15, 2024
|
4.5 stars Stolen Mothers by Stacy Green is the ninth in the FBI Agent Nikki Hunt series. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Bookouture, and of 4.5 stars Stolen Mothers by Stacy Green is the ninth in the FBI Agent Nikki Hunt 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: (Contains spoilers from previous books) Nikki Hunt is an FBI Agent whose parents were murdered when she was young. Their real killer is now behind bars, after she helped free Mark Todd (who she originally helped incarcerate). She now lives with his brother Rory, and family dynamics are settling down. She has a young daughter (Lacey), and her ex-husband (Tyler) was murdered by a serial killer (Frost) who is also now behind bars, and is apparently Nikki's half-brother. Nikki heads the BAU unit based out of St. Paul Minnesota. Her team consists of Crime Scene Analyst Courtney Hart and Agent Liam Wilson. They work closely with Sheriff Kent Miller. She has a new boss, Henry Garcia...and the verdict is still out. My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions) Nikki is called to the scene of a gruesome discovery. The tortured body of Kiania Watson has been found 3 doors down from her own home, pink trilliums are tied to her hand. Nikki knows this killer, whom she had been told was dead. But she is sure it is the same man who, nine years ago, had let her live. The same man who had told her that they would meet again. Now she just has to convince her team he's still alive. On further investigation, they find two morel victims who had died with the same injuries, stomach contents, and flowers by their side. They start looking for more, just across the border in Canada. The only one not convinced is Sheriff Kent Miller, who seems to have his mind on other things. Nikki soon realizes that the killer is targeting mothers to newborn babies. He may have let Nikki go 10 years ago because she was still pregnant with Lacy at the time. But he definitely has mother issues....and he may now be targeting Nikki. My Opinions: I am still really enjoying this series. The plot was a little dark and twisted, but excellent! It dealt with motherhood, miscarriages, and torture against women. There were a lot of characters, often from different police agencies, but it wasn't a bit deal. All the characters were interesting, but not all of them were "nice". There was one really despicable father that I would love to speak with.... I love the way things turned out with Anita. I also liked the friendship between Kent and Nikki, and the growing bond between Nikki and her new boss. Nikki's team is strong, and they have each others backs. Overall, this was a really good book. They really need to be read in order, because Nikki's past experiences has really formed her into who she is today. Definitely recommend this series! For a more complete review of this book and others (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, author information and a favorite quotation from the book), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Jul 03, 2024
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Jul 13, 2024
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Jul 13, 2024
|
ebook
| |||||||||||||||
| 1496749650
| 9781496749659
| 1496749650
| 3.77
| 367
| Feb 20, 2024
| Feb 20, 2024
|
really liked it
| 3.5 stars The Deepest Kill by Lisa Black is the third in the Locard Institute thriller series. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Kensington B 3.5 stars The Deepest Kill by Lisa Black is the third in the Locard Institute thriller series. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Kensington 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. Series Background: (May contain spoilers from previous books) Dr. Rachel Davies (a former forensic pathologist) is the assistant director of The Locard Institute which conducts research in forensic topics, from ballistics to DNA analysis, and trains scientists and technicians and law enforcement personnel from around the world. They have state-of-the-art technology available, and are often in demand. Dr. Ellie Carr, a forensic scientist for the FBI in DC, is joining the staff at Locard. Her mother died when she was 4, and she lived with her grandmother til she was 9, then with her Aunt Rosalie until she was 12, her Uncle Terry & Aunt Katie until she was 16, then Uncle Paul and Aunt Joana until she married Adam, who she recently divorced. My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions) The third richest man in America, Martin Post, calls Ellie and Rachel to his home in Florida's gulf coast to look into the death of his daughter. Ashley, an experienced boater and swimmer, was four months pregnant when she went for a boat ride that ended in disaster. Her body washed up on shore two weeks later. It looks like an accident, but her father is suspicious. He wants Ellie and Rachel to determine the real cause of death. Rachel and Ellie confirm that yes, his daughter was murdered...now they just have to find the perpetrator. Martin is sure it is his son-in-law, Greg. But why? Does his mistress have anything to do with it? Maybe it has to do with the new defense program that they are working on for the US Military? Could it be espionage? A botched kidnapping? There's definitely a strange family dynamic, with Martin over-seeing every move that everyone makes, and his "trophy" wife Dani going along with it all. Even Ashley had no qualms about living under her father's roof. Both Rachel and Ellie find themselves in trouble over this one. My Opinions: This was really interesting, with a few a few despicable characters, and a few twists. Again, the author provide a lot of technical forensic and medical issues, but explained everything very well. Her expertise shone through. Both Rachel and Ellie are interesting characters, and we've learned a little more about Ellie's past. However, there are still questions to be answered. I also like Michael, and assume he will get together with Ellie at some point....and for a change I'm hoping that romance happens. On the downside, it was a overly-detailed (again). The perpetrator was not a surprise. And I I hated the ending....it left so many unanswered questions. It was also really abrupt. So overall, while there were some things I disliked, the book was good, and I will continue with the series. For a more complete review of this book and others (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, as well as author information), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com ...more |
Notes are private!
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Sep 16, 2024
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Sep 23, 2024
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Jul 12, 2024
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Hardcover
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Kat (Katlovesbooks)
>
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| 3.96
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it was amazing
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Mar 10, 2023
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| 4.48
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it was amazing
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Jun 28, 2018
not set
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| 3.98
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really liked it
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Dec 19, 2019
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| 4.13
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liked it
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Apr 03, 2021
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Sep 26, 2024
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| 4.10
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it was amazing
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Apr 04, 2021
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Sep 26, 2024
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| 4.48
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it was amazing
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Apr 21, 2020
not set
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Sep 24, 2024
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| 4.61
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it was amazing
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Nov 09, 2022
not set
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Sep 23, 2024
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| 4.26
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really liked it
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Jul 23, 2019
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| 4.22
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Jun 25, 2021
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| 3.46
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really liked it
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Jul 31, 2018
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Sep 18, 2024
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| 4.33
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really liked it
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Sep 06, 2018
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| 4.42
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Aug 27, 2024
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| 4.29
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really liked it
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Aug 27, 2024
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Aug 27, 2024
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| 4.48
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really liked it
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Aug 17, 2024
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Aug 17, 2024
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| 3.90
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really liked it
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Aug 21, 2024
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Aug 11, 2024
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| 3.93
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really liked it
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Aug 09, 2024
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Aug 09, 2024
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| 4.34
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really liked it
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May 30, 2021
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| 4.27
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liked it
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Jul 27, 2019
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| 4.40
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Jul 13, 2024
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Jul 13, 2024
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| 3.77
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really liked it
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Sep 23, 2024
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Jul 12, 2024
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