When the tortured and mutilated body of Benji Thatcher, a 15-year old street urchin, is discovered after the attempt to bury him is interrupted, SebasWhen the tortured and mutilated body of Benji Thatcher, a 15-year old street urchin, is discovered after the attempt to bury him is interrupted, Sebastian St. Cyr, Viscount Devlin gets involved at the request of Paul Gibson. What was done to this child offended Sebastian's sensibilities and he immediately launches an investigation only to find that there appears to be a pattern of street children inexplicably disappearing. No one seems to have noticed.
Throughout this series, the plight of the poor and abandoned children has been in the background. This story faces those issues head on as we're given more insight into the ugly truths of the era. These children were virtually invisible to the gentry and noble class as both Sebastian and Hero highlight, him through the investigation and her through research of an article she's writing in the topic.
The author's further commitment to historical authenticity is the incorporation of the works and story of the Marquis de Sade, infamous for his debauchery and sexual deviancy and from which the term sadism was created. The suspects were tied to de Sade either as admirers of his last book or as followers of his sexual practices. Make no mistake, this is an uncomfortable story as these are behaviors inflicted on children and it's not an indictment about sexual proclivities. It was hard to take in but respectfully presented without any hint of gratuitous violence.
It's not all doom and gloom as there are important progressions in Sebastian's personal life. It was brilliantly and deftly presented, providing a balance sorely needed to offset the distasteful aspects of the investigation. It also is clear that this series hasn't yet ended...not a cliffhanger but definitely the promise of more to come.
I love this series and this book was outstanding. I also recommend not reading it until you've read all of the others before it as the character development evolves to a pretty loud crescendo in this one. Yes, you'd enjoy this on its own merits but you'd be missing some critical subtleties that just makes the reading experience extraordinary....more
Jesse Warwick is the HORNET Team medic who’s struggling with a lot of issues but mainly how to develop a relationship with his 15-year old troubled soJesse Warwick is the HORNET Team medic who’s struggling with a lot of issues but mainly how to develop a relationship with his 15-year old troubled son, Connor, and how to cope with perceived medical failures in the field. Complicating his life even more is the new addition to the team, Lainie Delcambre, a woman who was part of his past and he can’t keep out of his mind and heart. She’s trying to fit in as the only female in the group.
This story took a while to get going as much time was spent developing these characters in the beginning, despite a great prologue. Though both were in earlier books in the series, Jesse and Lainie weren’t fleshed out much. It was worth the time spent though because when things got crazy, I felt like I knew them so well and could predict their actions. Jesse and Lainie were well suited despite their differences. I also liked how the issues related to her being the only female on the team were portrayed. It was honest without being indicting or whining.
Speaking of action, it was pretty nonstop once the setting shifted to Martinique. It was riveting, heartbreaking and chilling. There was nothing predictable about anything that happened from thereon out. I literally couldn’t stop reading. I’m used to the books in this series being suspenseful but this was so much more. It was breathtaking.
I love this series and really liked this book, even though there were parts that broke my heart. The ending promised at least one more story and that makes me happy. 4.5 stars
(I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review)...more
Tish Gordon has graduated from law school and is poised to begin working as an associate at the prestigious law firm where she's done her externship tTish Gordon has graduated from law school and is poised to begin working as an associate at the prestigious law firm where she's done her externship the past two summers. Her plan to spend her last free summer back in Landon, Minnesota is derailed when the partner asks her to help out a former colleague. The catch? It's in Jalesville, Montana...the hometown of Case Spicer, the young musician that professed his heart to her seven years ago at her sister's wedding. It didn't go well.
I looked forward to this story as I didn't know much about Tish other than her drive to be a lawyer and her disastrous encounter with Case at Camille's wedding. I also had completely different expectations from what actually happened so it ended up being fresh and surprising. Instead of Case resuming his pursuit, he kept his distance and was rather aloof. It was an interesting but angst-filled journey for Tish as she struggled to come to terms with who she really was, who and what was most important and how to listen to her heart.
I enjoyed getting to know Tish and returning to Jalesville where Camille and Mathias had previously discovered their connected pasts with the Rawley family. The connection to the Dove Trilogy continues here (but not as strongly as the previous book) and I am again fascinated with the linkages. Case was also a lovely character with a tough past but a pure and giving spirit. I got a bit frustrated for how long it took for these two to openly communicate but ultimately realized that troublesome journey was critical to both their self discoveries. There's also a bit of mystery and tension brought by external forces that made things lively. I'm so loving this series and am anxiously waiting for the next book's release!
(I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review)...more
Renowned actor Carter St. Clair is viciously attacked in his home by a stalker and barely survives. His brother brOriginally posted onThe Book Nympho
Renowned actor Carter St. Clair is viciously attacked in his home by a stalker and barely survives. His brother brings him back home to Rarity Cove, South Carolina to heal, both mentally and physically. Guilt ridden about the death of his companion and bordering on depression, Carter's recuperation becomes a challenge for his family. Physical therapist Quinn Reese has also returned home to Rarity Cove following the collapse of her marriage to an NFL star. When her former brother-in-law asks for her help with Carter, she sees it as an opportunity to establish her independence despite her troubled history with him.
This story had everything I like in the genre. There was always a sense of melancholy surrounding both Carter and Quinn until they reconnected. It was her job to help Carter with his recuperation but he helped her just as much, healing her emotionally following her awful marriage. They're both normally strong people but now experiencing a period of weakness. They found a source of strength in each other that happened gradually and naturally. Their romance was quite lovely.
The suspense was twofold as Carter's memory of the attack didn't immediately return and Quinn's estranged husband was a constant threat. It was always in the background until the climatic confrontations for both. I had a tough time putting this book down.
I'm captivated by this series and LOVE the covers to date as they beautifully represent the mood and tone of the stories within. This story is another gem and Tentler is now on my auto buy list. Her writing style simply works for me.
(I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review)...more
I said in my review of Tapped that I needed just a little bit more. Well, I got a lot more in this follow up story.
Ross Hoffman walked away from his I said in my review of Tapped that I needed just a little bit more. Well, I got a lot more in this follow up story.
Ross Hoffman walked away from his relationship with Evelyn and Austin after realizing the impossibilities of having it work, especially with Evelyn being pregnant with his child and legally married to Austin. He escapes to a brewery in Boulder but cannot seem to forget Evelyn. When he is suddenly drawn back to Grand Rapids, he's "lightstruck" by their new brewmaster, Elisa (Elle) Nagel, a fellow German who is completely opposite of his "type."
Frankly, I loved the three-way relationship between Austin, Evelyn and Ross as Crowe created a fascinating situation between them so I was disappointed when Ross walked away. However, as I learned more about the man, I discovered why he made the right decision. On the surface, Elle doesn't seem like the kind of woman who'd be interested in Ross and she does indeed pose a formidable challenge. She's also got a huge trail of baggage following her. But, they're both extraordinarily passionate about their work and each other. It's a rocky relationship in both arenas but never, ever dull. I loved how they loved each other and it was nice to see Ross create a new relationship with Evelyn and Austin.
There's quite a bit of drama in this story but it befit these characters. The ending is quite traumatic, providing a level of suspense and triumph I didn't foresee. I loved the story and the characters, all of them, and hope we haven't seen the last of them.
(I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review)...more
Psychologist Evelyn Talbot continues her study of some of the most dangerous serial killers in the country at her special facility located near Anchor Psychologist Evelyn Talbot continues her study of some of the most dangerous serial killers in the country at her special facility located near Anchorage, Alaska. Her newest inmate is Lyman Bishop, aka the Zombie Maker, whose weapon of choice is an ice pick, which he uses to crudely perform lobotomies on his female victims. Meanwhile, Jasper Moore, the man who brutally attacked Evelyn as a teen, is plotting his next move that will bring him closer to her.
Admittedly, this is a creepy series given what Evelyn does but this story really disturbed me, so much so it took me longer to finish because I was terrified as to what I’d find next when I turned the page. Getting Jasper’s point of view iced the cake as this guy is charming and clever (think Ted Bundy). Lyman was also one sick fellow, masterful in controlling his emotions so he appeared harmless. What made this so terrifying is we know what’s coming unbeknownst to Evelyn. Despite my trepidation, this was just the kind of brew I like in my thrillers. Thank goodness there’s a little bit of romance to provide some respite between the suspense.
I very much enjoyed this one, even if it scared me silly. I could hardly make it through to the breathtaking climax and I even did something I never do...peeked a little at the epilogue. I know, I know...shame on me but I couldn’t stand it any longer. Fair warning, there’s a bit of a cliff hanger of sorts, only to set up what the next book will portend. I can hardly wait. Well done, Ms. Novak.
(I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review)...more
Gwen Bailey is feeling pretty good about herself for a change now that her family has emerged from the grief and despair brought about by the death ofGwen Bailey is feeling pretty good about herself for a change now that her family has emerged from the grief and despair brought about by the death of her brother and nephew five years ago. Her parents leaned heavily on her for support and now that her other brother has returned to town, it's her turn to focus on her own happiness. And at the center of that focus is The Muffin Man, or TMM as he's "confectionately" known as he comes into her chocolate shop every morning for his coffee and muffin. What she doesn't know is he's Dr. Luke Thomson and he's keeping a secret that could potentially devastate her.
What's not to like about Gwen? She's a great friend, sister and daughter with the sunniest of dispositions. Her one failing, however, is her own self perception but she's working on that, too. Luke has the same attraction towards her as she has for him but knows he can never begin a relationship because of that monster of a secret. Despite these issues, they both plod forward inelegantly but it all works. I loved how their relationship developed and it was a nice change of pace to see the guy have all the angst.
I was looking forward to this story and it lived up to my expectations. I adored Gwen and Luke clearly earned his redemption. The strong theme of family, conventional and otherwise, added wonderful foundations and layers to an already good story. There are equal amounts of heartbreaking and heartwarming moments, especially near the end. Here's hoping we haven't seen the last of Shadow Creek.
(I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review)...more
Loretta Simmons returns home to Hope, Oklahoma after her marriage collapses from a slow but miserable death. She's determined to be independent, essenLoretta Simmons returns home to Hope, Oklahoma after her marriage collapses from a slow but miserable death. She's determined to be independent, essentially raising her 9-year old daughter, Hazel, like a single parent. Things are awkward when the man she callously dumped for the man she married is renovating the building where her bookstore is housed. Deacon Fox keeps his distance but eventually life puts them on the same path.
The biggest conflict in this story is how Deacon and Loretta will resolve what happened between them as teens and that gets dealt with pretty early on. What remains is the slow building new relationship between the two of them, connected through Hazel who dazzles Deacon and he her. Add to the mix a new dog named Otis, a Great Dane who needs training, and you've got a delightful story. I also liked the narrator who interpreted the vibe of the town and these characters pretty well and added the requisite distinctions.
One of the things I love about this series is how the past characters are all connected. The new characters are introduced to the circle and the friendships that develop are heartwarming. Hope is a place I like to come visit to uplift my spirit and feel better about my community. These are good, hard working people who aren't wealthy (well, one of them is) and experience the normal issues associated with work, family and friends. I like them, like visiting with them and I really liked Loretta and Deacon. I thought he let her off the hook too easily but it was true to his character. There are a few new characters introduced here so I'm looking forward to more stories and returning to this town. 3.5 stars
(I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review)...more
Taylor Dawson is working as an intern and equine therapist at Daphne’s horse farm, Healing Hearts, but her real agenda is to check out Clay Maynard, Taylor Dawson is working as an intern and equine therapist at Daphne’s horse farm, Healing Hearts, but her real agenda is to check out Clay Maynard, her biological father who she only recently learned wasn’t the monster her mother made him out to be. She’s also making headway with one of the kids in her therapy who hasn’t spoken since she witnessed her mother’s murder...unbeknownst to the killer.
The stories that involve children always unnerve me and this one definitely set me on edge. The scenes involving the children, Jazzie and Janie Jarvis, were just chilling. It was balanced, though, by Clay's reunion with his daughter, Sienna, now known as Taylor. I’ve long awaited this story and I reveled in every part of their discovery. Loved every minute of it. Even Taylor and Ford’s instant attraction worked.
Marguerite Gavin did a great job narrating the story, as usual. She captured so many voices distinctively. The villain in this story was particularly nasty and she nailed him. I was glad to return to Baltimore, which is my favorite of the cities in this series because of the character connections and their sense of family. And, for once, the body count didn’t spin out of control!...more
As Jane Smith's 25th birthday approaches, she suddenly has a compelling need to find her biological father. Though she's never questioned the love of
As Jane Smith's 25th birthday approaches, she suddenly has a compelling need to find her biological father. Though she's never questioned the love of her adopted parents, she's always been acutely aware of how different she looks from them and her adorable twin sisters. She knows her father's first name and is Greek (thanks to her bio mother), responsible for her height, eyes of separate colors and dark coloring. So, off she goes on a sudden trip to Greece to find him, picking the island of Santorini simply because it "called" to her.
After reading Almost a Bride, I vowed to listen to the rest of the series because I figured it would be outstanding on audio. My instincts were dead on as the humor was expertly translated. Jane is the most stoic of the group of friends so her decision to suddenly step outside her comfort zone was completely out of character. As imagined, her journey was loaded with missteps, misunderstandings and hilarious moments.
But Jane's most extraordinary encounter comes when she meets the gorgeous man she discovered in the island's travel magazine. His name is Dimitri (coincidentally the same as the father she's trying to find) and he's the man who will be her guide for her stay. I loved Dimitri and how he got Jane to find herself in the process. He was the perfect foil to the self deprecating Jane.
This was a cute story with lots of fun moments, even when Jane's pessimistic attitude could be wearying. Just when I thought it was getting to be too much, the story took an incredible turn and became one of substance and insight. That turn brought balance to Jane's search and in finding him, she found herself. You will absolutely love the ending and the wonderful trek through a Greek island that is so descriptively presented. This series nails the comedy and great travel.
(I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review)...more
Psychologist Lucy Flannery returns to her hometown of Dahlonega, Georgia after an 18-year hiatus following the murder of her mother and brother, suppoPsychologist Lucy Flannery returns to her hometown of Dahlonega, Georgia after an 18-year hiatus following the murder of her mother and brother, supposedly by her father. New DNA tests have exonerated him and now she has to figure out how to forgive herself for unfairly hating the man she once adored. She clashes with Sheriff Ben Paulson quickly after setting foot in town but they soon figure out they've got a common purpose when it appears that Lucy's being targeted.
I was hoping we'd see Ben Paulson again as I liked him in Avarice and loved him in this story. Lucy's a prickly and complex woman but she and Ben connected on the common experience of having lost family to violence. Their banter was witty and humorous, one of the elements of the story that I found compelling. The mystery was thorny with lots of suspects, murky motives and interesting twists wrapped around two characters who were well suited.
Even though I nailed the villain really early on, the story was so good it didn't matter and I challenged my suspect often. The trick was to figure out the motive, all the while as we waited for Lucy to reconnect with her father and his family. It was an emotional reading experience as this book tugs on so many of them.
I love this series and the author continues to be an auto buy. She NEVER fails. ...more
Widow Sally Cowan, Lady Norwood, is introducing her niece, Meg, to London society and has focused on one suitor, Sir Charles Kinglake. While he's a biWidow Sally Cowan, Lady Norwood, is introducing her niece, Meg, to London society and has focused on one suitor, Sir Charles Kinglake. While he's a bit older (about 29-years old to her 18), he's charming, kind, considerate and attentive. But, he's not yet issued a proposal and the season is close to ending. Charles is even more frustrated as he's trying to court Lady Norwood!
Sally is one of the more spirited of the Dashing Widows so it was startling to see her so off balance once she owned up to her feelings for Charles. She was so damaged emotionally by her first marriage to a boorish and cruel oaf, Sally couldn't see the proverbial forest. Even Meg had to intervene for her to acknowledge that Charles had no interest in anyone other than Sally.
This was a passionate and, at times, funny story about two really wonderful people that couldn't follow the straight line to each other. Sally loved her independence after ten years in a loveless marriage and the idea of a love match was incomprehensible to her. Charles frustration was well earned. I enjoyed this story, as I always do with Campbell's stories, though Sally's stubbornness was wearying. However, there's a very powerful scene between her and the last Dashing Widow that was very moving and made all that musing worth the wait.
(I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review)...more
Amos Decker is walking to the FBI building in Washington DC when he witnesses Walter Dabney, a prominent owner of a government contracting firm, pull Amos Decker is walking to the FBI building in Washington DC when he witnesses Walter Dabney, a prominent owner of a government contracting firm, pull out a gun and shoot a woman who was also walking in that vicinity. He then turns the gun on himself. It's clear that Dabney murdered Anne Berkshire, a substitute school teacher, but what's not so clear is the why. Since Decker witnessed the event and the case is handed to the FBI, the task force is given the assignment.
Unlike the first two books, the task force is investigating a hot case instead of a cold one. It's classic police procedural with Decker's added unique skills. As it progresses, the investigation runs smack into another of the alphabet agencies, the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) and Harper Brown, their liaison. It was a gnarly puzzle, leading down unexpected and surprising paths. I ended up suspecting quite a few from time to time but ended up going with my initial instincts, which were right. I loved that the clues were all there for me to deduce much of it on my own (along with a lot of help from Decker).
What I truly loved about this book was the relationship elements. Decker is experiencing the benefits of being part of a team after the circumstances of his tragic past and it humanizes him and the story. It makes quite a difference in a good way. Also, the duality narration has found its rhythm and it rocked. Kyf Brewer and Orlagh Cassidy made this a very enjoyable listening experience.
Still loving this series and Amos Decker. This story might not have all excitement of the first two but it certainly strains the brain in figuring out the mystery.
(I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review)...more
RN Ellie Meeks is a widow with 2-year twins (almost 3) who were born after her husband died in Iraq. It's been almost four years now and though her miRN Ellie Meeks is a widow with 2-year twins (almost 3) who were born after her husband died in Iraq. It's been almost four years now and though her mind tells her she's ready her heart isn't ready to let go of husband Dan. Enter neighbor Jesse Moretti, a former Army Ranger now a volunteer member of the Rocky Mountain Search & Rescue Team who works for the Ski Resort as a patroller. He definitely claims her head and starts chipping away at her heart.
I really liked this story primarily because of the main characters, Ellie and Jesse. There's so much to admire about both of them and together, they were even more likable. Their burgeoning relationship was honest (to a degree), mature and pretty wonderful. Jesse's propensity for rescue served the relationship well as he recognized the boundaries while he did the honorable thing. I loved how they helped each other push through their individual issues.
One of the strong points of the series is the incredible sense of community that permeates everything in each story. It was even more resounding here and added so much to my enjoyment. Ellie and Jesse had a lovely relationship and, of course, the twins added adorable relief. I really don't want this series to end.
(I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review)...more
Homicide Lieutenant Samantha (Sam) Holland and her partner Freddie Cruz are called to a scene where a body was found on the banks of the Anacostia RivHomicide Lieutenant Samantha (Sam) Holland and her partner Freddie Cruz are called to a scene where a body was found on the banks of the Anacostia River. As they begin their investigation, agents suddenly show up, surround Sam and whisk her away without explanation. A serious and credible threat was received against the Vice President's family and that means more than just Sam and son, Scotty.
This was a solidly interesting case that went in some strange directions. I liked that the resolution came about through dogged police procedurals involving the entire team. It was engaging and allowed me to follow the case and make my own deductions that turned out to be on target. That works for me in a mystery.
My biggest issue continues to be with Sam operating without a net when she's the Second Lady. I just can't suspend reality enough to swallow her not having protection. Here I felt she was particularly stubborn and unreasonable and it threw me out of the story. It's the reason why I dropped a half star.
I opted to listen this time and am glad I did. Eva Kaminsky normally is a voice I enjoy and that held true here. She does a great job with character distinctions, especially Sam and Freddie who she just nails. I may never go back to reading the series as I really enjoyed her performance and the story despite my issues with Sam. And, the bonus story at the end was an unexpected delight and so, so necessary. You'll have to read/listen to it yourself to understand what I'm talking about. 3.5 stars
(I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review)...more
Wow! Two romances in one and the action is riveting.
Beatrice is in labor and Cal agreed to her plan to have the baby at home. No sooner than they and Wow! Two romances in one and the action is riveting.
Beatrice is in labor and Cal agreed to her plan to have the baby at home. No sooner than they and Hunter arrive home from Chicago, trouble shows up in a big and awful way. With all agents assigned and out of town, it all falls in the hands of Connor McKenzie, the more than able Shadow Force International (SFI) office manager, and Sabrina Merinos, one of their pilots.
I loved this story. Seeing Beatrice tamed by labor was an experience in itself. The assault on her and Cal's home was chilling and everything that happened going forward was breathtaking. I'd always wondered about Connor and in just a few pages, I got him and the brewing romance between him and Sabrina. Seeing SFI in action is always interesting and this situation delivered (pardon the pun).
I literally couldn't put this story down and finished it in one sitting. It's a really nice addition to the series. 4.5 stars
(I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review)...more
Sierra Jones has had a pretty troubled life and is now ready to pursue a more productive path. She decides to visit her brother, Cal, in Sullivan's Cr
Sierra Jones has had a pretty troubled life and is now ready to pursue a more productive path. She decides to visit her brother, Cal, in Sullivan's Crossing and what began as a short stopover turns out to be an indefinite stay.
This was a very compelling story as we followed Sierra's journey to sustained sobriety. I learned so much about the realities experienced by those recovering from addictions, things we take for granted but are serious triggers for the addict. She was a pretty woman with a not so attractive history and her honesty about it all was admirable. I liked her caution about her developing relationship with firefighter and paramedic Conrad (Connie) Boyle, despite his wonderful personality and full court press to hurry things along.
The secondary storyline involving a more mature couple was also interesting, addressing the issues faced by single parents trying to provide for their families and have time for meaningful relationships. It was beautifully written.
The strong sense of community is an important element in this series and it resonated loudly in this story. There's also a suspense aspect I really enjoyed, adding even more tension and conflict to an already complex set of issues. I really enjoyed this book, especially the nail biting climax as Sierra's past returns in a terrible way. I'm looking forward to the return to Sullivan's Crossing.
(I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review)...more
Wow. What a crazy, train wreck ride! What else would you expect from the Brotherhood?
I have to come clean and admit I've never been a Xcor fan and havWow. What a crazy, train wreck ride! What else would you expect from the Brotherhood?
I have to come clean and admit I've never been a Xcor fan and have hated Layla's duplicity about her relationship with him. Because these stories have a multitude of storylines, I wasn't concerned about these two characters being the major focus as I was counting on the others to hold my interest. Xcor launched into this series as a cruel and brutal man, no way was there any possibility he could redeem himself in my mind and it irritated me that Layla betrayed the Brotherhood by continuing to see him. *sigh* I caved.
Layla's revelation was received explosively, much more than I ever anticipated and my imagination was pretty creative. It set off a series of events that unsettled the Brotherhood and beyond, which hooked me through the end. It changed my opinion of some of the other characters (yes, that means you, Qhuinn), no matter how this ended.
There were quite a few controversial situations in this story, some many may take serious issue with and I refuse to rehash the details. I'm not sure how I feel about some of them but I was very much drawn into this book. The storytelling is superb, the pace breakneck, the drama...well, dramatic. The narrator, Jim Frangione, continues to nail the characters and the crazy dialogue. I'll never go back to reading these books!
I enjoyed this book immensely, even while some of the characters' directions angered me or offended my sensibilities. But isn't that what a good story is supposed to do? I also consider it a miracle that Ward made me end up rooting for Xcor and I'm still unsettled about that. I'll be waiting in line for the next one. Love it or hate it, you will not be bored.
(I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review)...more
Cara Lindstrom is in the wind and Matt Roarke has taken leave from the FBI for awhile as he tries to get his head straight. But, he decides to start fCara Lindstrom is in the wind and Matt Roarke has taken leave from the FBI for awhile as he tries to get his head straight. But, he decides to start from her beginning to seek answers and it leads him to the town where she was assigned to her first group home. There is definitely something off in that place and Roarke makes it his mission to uncover the truth.
I loved how this story was told almost as much as the story itself. Roarke's investigation is chronicled in the present as Cara's is real time when she was 14-years old, fresh out of California's dreadful Youth Authority. The contrast was fascinating as the two experiences were paralleled and we learn so much more about her and those who had a profound impact on her. Even more troublesome though is the abysmal treatment of the children in the custody of the social services system and the sad state of affairs regarding rape investigations. All feature significantly in this story but the last two aren't fiction. We've much work to do here as a society. There are some vile creatures in this story but balanced by some true heroes.
I especially enjoyed seeing Roarke in action on his own, getting a strong sense of the man and agent as he finds his way. Things are not completely resolved here but he (and I) have a lot more clarity as it relates to the enigmatic Cara Lindstrom. I'm still slayed by this series and impatiently await the next book.
(I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review)...more
Eve and Roarke are on their way home from a fancy gala when they almost run into a young woman wandering dazed, naked and bloodied in the street. SounEve and Roarke are on their way home from a fancy gala when they almost run into a young woman wandering dazed, naked and bloodied in the street. Sound familiar? It echoes of 8-year old Eve, nameless at the time in Dallas. As Eve begins her investigation, she uncovers a series of like assaults that are vicious and cruel, especially this last one that continues to remind her of what was done to her prior to liberation.
What I really liked about this story is seeing how much Eve is evolving, even in how she responds to crimes that evoke memories of her awful origins. She confronts the issues differently and more responsibly. The case is chilling and gnarly but it was fairly clear to me who the perpetrator might be even if the motive was unclear. As I'm a big fan of the procedural aspects of this series, I enjoyed sifting through and assembling the clues and profiles to arrive at deductions.
This was another solid addition to the series and I enjoyed the story. The continued focus on the dynamics of Eve's squad is another source of reading pleasure as we begin to know more of her team beyond Baxter, Trueheart and Peabody. I'm really liking how the series is evolving. ...more
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