THE MURDERS OF LILLIAN ROSS is the best book of 2021! The choices we make in life can affect what happens to us. Lillian and Allison are both survivors of childhood abuse. They both had similar circumstances that ended up in different life choices. Lillian used Allison to mess with her head but her final words – “Live for me.” were poignant. Lillian had given up on her life when she was forced to kill to survive. Allison had buried the memories of what had happened to her but they resurfaced while doing Lillian’s book. Allison started suffering almost immediately with a type of survivor guilt. She wanted to save Lillian, who didn’t ask for her help. Though hard to get through in some spots, it is so worth it. The research put into writing the book is spot on. Your emotions will go for an emotional roller coaster. The characters are so well-written. Lillian’s parents are real pieces of work. Ira was a disappointment. Mr. Tanner felt so much like one of the “celeb” lawyers. This book will leave you thinking. This really was a phenomenal book.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shelly Kittellhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShelly Kittell2021-07-21 21:26:112021-07-23 09:05:35The Murders of Lillian Ross by Sirena Van Schaik – Review by Shelly Kittell
Madeline and her husband Mike own and run the MDPI as well as a party-planning company called Current Events. Madeline and Mike attend an event at the home of Troy and Tara Richardson for their fifth wedding anniversary. After escaping from the party early, the couple gets a call from their former rival in the PI business, Russell Barnett. Russell asks them to take the lead in finding his nephew, Dylan, who has been missing for six days. After a shortened night of sleep, Madeline is awoken by a phone call from Troy Richardson. His wife, Tara, has disappeared, and he wants them to help him find her.
MDPI now has three missing persons: Dylan and his girlfriend, Paige, and Tara Richardson. Trying to put the puzzle pieces together for both of these cases in a harrowing affair. It is not easy to handle one missing person’s case, but two at the same time is near impossible. Madeline’s quizzical nature has her frantically trying to make sense of the disappearance of Dylan and his girlfriend while trying to bring her client’s wife home safely.
I have never read Cynthia Hamilton’s The Madeline Dawkins Mystery series before. I found that Houses of Deception is easily a stand-alone read. There are connections to past events mentioned in the book, but these do not affect the plot. I hope to read more of this series in the future.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Ashley Doverhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAshley Dover2021-07-21 20:40:552021-07-23 09:04:03Houses of Deception (The Madeline Dawkins Mystery Series Book 6) by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Ashley Dover
Madeline and Mike Delaney run a husband-and-wife private detective business, as well as Madeline’s party-planning business. Early the morning after an anniversary bash for a real estate power couple, Madeline is called by the husband to state that the wife is missing and the husband wants his wife found. Could Madeline and Mike help? Just as M&M start investigating the wife’s, Tara’s, disappearance, the son of an old friend also disappears, and M&M’s PI business mentor asks them to help find the missing young man. So the plot line switches back and forth between the two disappearances. Plots thicken, and M&M methodically work their cases. I loved the art-heist dimension (stolen by the Nazis?) added to the missing young man’s case, and nothing was as it first appeared in either case. This was a fun book ,b/c I did not ever know what was happening in either (all three, really) of the disappearances until the author started telegraphing possibilities. My only quibble is really my own fault: this is book #6 in a series, but the first I’d read. I think knowing more of the back story on Mike and Madeline would have helped. Otherwise, a very enjoyable mystery.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Sherry Sharpnackhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngSherry Sharpnack2021-07-21 13:20:102021-07-22 19:44:26Houses of Deception (The Madeline Dawkins Mystery Series Book 6) by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Sherry Sharpnack
“But you made it,”Allison said, “You survived, and I know you are going to survive this.” “Did I?” Allison asked as her more tears ran down her cheeks. “I don’t think I ever left that apartment. I think they breathed life into corpse, and she has been walking through the world without any joy…without anything but pain.”
Moments ago I finished this book, and I am still weighed by the heaviness of it. The Murders of Lillian Ross wasn’t a book I expected to fall in love with, but I found pieces of myself between the pages and paragraphs, between the smiles and the tears, this book was very close to my heart.
PLEASE READ TWs IN SYNOPSIS BEFORE READING THIS BOOK!
This story follows the life of Lillian Ross, a child groomed for the light that follows the wealthy. A portrait-perfect family that can do no wrong, has done much wrong indeed. As Lillian introduces us to the Skeletons in her closet, Allison revisits some of her own. Will Lillian’s story save Allison? Or will it only mirror Allison’s own future?
I found myself so immersed in this book and Lillian’s story. There were so many palpable and vivid scenes, I felt as if I was in the same room as these characters. As a murder/crime mystery documentary lover and hopeful future writer myself, I LOVED following Allison’s’ story as she helped Lillian tell her truth. Normally reading the things these girls go through (SA, abuse, etc) don’t get to me so hard, but some of the incidents in their lives, their family members, and more reflected even my own life to the point that; At a few times, I felt like I was reading about myself!
The way inner struggle, mental health, the choices we are given as women, and the alienation of being a survivor, were portrayed in this book felt accurate and truthful to me. It resonated with me the way the author showed the ugly side of healing. I appreciate this, and I hope to see more accurate portrayals of this in books. Many people don’t prefer this in their fiction, but I think it’s important to show the way abuse, and trauma can stay with people. Even further on into their lives.
There were times I had to go back and reread parts that didn’t make sense to me personally the first time (I read a little too fast whoops!) but that’s the only “problem” I had with this one. Other than that, I honestly enjoyed this book and recommend it for crime readers!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Cassiehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngCassie2021-07-21 11:58:482021-07-22 19:41:34The Murders of Lillian Ross by Sirena Van Schaik – Review by Cassie
The Murders of Lillian Ross by Sirena Van Schaik. I LOVED this book. I read it in 2 settings. I couldn’t hardly put it down. Its the story of author Allison McKinnon who has taken on the story of Lillian Ross who is in prison for the murder of her father and her pimp/husband. Allison has written several true crime stories so is familiar with going to prisons to visit inmates but there is something about Lillian that doesn’t set right with her. Allison has her own past she is dealing with and there is something about Lillian that feels familiar. Her mother has begged her not to write this book but she is determined to finish it even though she has started getting threats about it. What Allison finds out about Lillian’s uptown upbringing is shocking and not so different than her own past. Will Allison survive long enough to get the book published? Is Lillian really guilty of these horrible crimes? Read this book to find out! You won’t be disappointed!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tausha Treadwayhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTausha Treadway2021-07-21 11:40:222021-07-22 19:38:42The Murders of Lillian Ross by Sirena Van Schaik – Review by Tausha Treadway
WOW!!!!!! I’m pretty sure I still haven’t processed everything I read in this book. What an amazing web you discover within these pages! I know I’m going to dig back in soon to relive every twist. Just an amazing ride that will leave your head spinning. A must read!!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Heather Lovelacehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHeather Lovelace2021-07-21 09:19:352021-07-21 09:19:35The Third Nanny (Secrets of Redemption) by Michele PW (Pariza Wacek) – Review by Heather Lovelace
Glenn Maynard jumps right into the story of Troy and the abusive life he has lived since a child. Troy has shapes his life and decisions around the abuse his entire life until one day he comes home to a tragedy and it changes everything for him.
I love to fall in love with characters from the books I read. However, it was impssoible to fall in love with these characters because they are dark and oh so damaged. I felt sympathy for them for sure but not love. That was shockingly okay for me because at the same time the book kept me so intrigued that it didn’t matter if i hated the characters I just had to know what happened next. I have never read Maynard’s work before. It was fast paced and I absolutely loved his writing style. He defintley isn’t afraid to jump right into the middle of it and get the story going. He brought me along for this twisted ride of a book and I could not put it down.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Alexandra Leithhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAlexandra Leith2021-07-21 07:09:252021-07-22 19:34:37Chatroom With A View by Glenn Maynard – Review by Alexandra Leith
A really great crime read. This is the sixth book in the series and it was so engaging. Even when I had to stop reading, I was easily able to pick it up and get absorbed back into the pages. Madeline and Mike are so relatable and I was swept up by the drama surrounding the cases. The author executed the interwoven storyline excellently and kept the intrigue going right until the end. If you enjoy a good detective series don’t miss this one.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Rayne Easthttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRayne East2021-07-21 04:52:322021-07-22 19:32:49Houses of Deception (The Madeline Dawkins Mystery Series Book 6) by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Rayne East
Houses of Deception is the sixth book in The Madeline Dawkins series by Cynthia Hamilton. I know I say this with every new release, but I LOVE this series soooo much!!! I am so happy I discovered Cynthia Hamilton, and Madeline Dawkins- they are definitely at the top of my ‘must read’ list. The story is very cleverly woven with lots of intriguing developments that pulled me further and further into the story. This story has all the ingredients that I have come to expect from a great read, and from Ms. Hamilton. There is plenty of mystery, suspense, danger, action, adventure, surprising developments, drama, tension, and other clever touches. As expected, Cynthia Hamilton, put Madeline and Mike through their paces- as well as crafting a very smart, tightly woven, and thought provoking mystery that had me glued to the pages as everything unfolded. I devoured it all in one sitting. This is a fantastic addition to the series which seem to get better and better with each new instalment. This could be read as a standalone, but I do not recommend doing that as you would be missing out on 5 other superb books that contain so much detail, past ‘adventures’, and character development. Trust me, it is worth starting this series at the beginning! So, if you love a cleverly crafted and thrilling mystery then what are you waiting for? Grab yourself a copy and dive in- but be prepared to develop a major addiction to Cynthia Hamilton’s stories- you’ll find that one book won’t be enough. So, limber up your ‘one-click’ finger and get set for an exciting ride! Can’t wait for “Other People’s Money” (Book #7)- it can’t get here soon enough!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2021-07-20 23:16:512021-07-22 19:25:08Houses of Deception (The Madeline Dawkins Mystery Series Book 6) by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Angela Hayes
Houses of Deception (The Madeline Dawkins Mystery Series Book 6) by Cynthia Hamilton is a fast paced mystery book. Her characters are very relatable and easy to connect. The plot is quite gripping, In their journey to search to find one person, Madeline and Mike discover that there are more missing people and also a stolen piece of art. There are multiple twists and turns and the plot is nothing short of a roller coaster ride. I enjoy detective stories and I liked this mystery very much. I should very much like to go back and read the rest of the books in this series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Anantha Rusumhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAnantha Rusum2021-07-20 22:23:522021-07-22 19:23:08Houses of Deception (The Madeline Dawkins Mystery Series Book 6) by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Anantha Rusum
Drifting, Falling is smart, dark, and infinitely unforgettable. Our troubled narrator Ripley is highly intelligent and witty as she unravels her traumatic past and waxes poetical about the men in her life, and her current objective: the best suicide possible. She navigates her daytime life as university student, nighttime job as a very high-priced call girl, and still has time to play games with her therapist. She is sociopathic and cutting, but also hilarious and full of facts as she regales us with tales in her journal. I didn’t expect to like this as much as I did – there is something very compelling about her story and the way she tells it. Her story will surprise you as she lets it out, piece by piece. Very well done and I will definitely seek out more books by this authour.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Erica Shoebridgehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngErica Shoebridge2021-07-20 21:14:552021-07-22 19:18:27Drifting, Falling: Diary of a Call Girl Suicide by A.J. Ullman – Review by Erica Shoebridge
A frantic early-morning phone call propels the detectives down a rabbit hole as a missing person case turns into a kidnapping for ransom. Join Maddison and Mike on another thrilling case. Cynthia Hawkins is an amazing author and has become one of my favorite authors in crime. The Maddison Dawkins Series is one that you just have to read from start to finish. While this is the sixth novel in this series it can be read as a standalone novel. However, I do recommend that you read them in order. You will fall in love with the characters and the author from page one. Hawkins knows how to keep her readers engaged in her novels.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Emma Clawsonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngEmma Clawson2021-07-20 20:52:152021-07-22 19:14:42Houses of Deception (The Madeline Dawkins Mystery Series Book 6) by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Emma Clawson
Houses of Deception The Madeline Dawkins Mystery Series Book 6, was my first book by Cynthia Hamilton. Although I did not read the 5 books prior to this one in the series, I really enjoyed the way this book was written and that the author went back and explained about previous events to tie the story together. For someone who didn’t know anything about the previous characters I was not lost in reading the 6th book in the series and I liked that. The story kept me wanting more by having 2 mysteries to solve in it. The build-up for both storylines was nicely written and kept my attention throughout the entire book. It was hard to put this book down and I will definitely be going back and reading the previous books to get a better idea of what Madeline and Mike have experienced in the past.
The author really adds lots of twists and turns to the story and makes the reader want to find out if the hunches that Madeline and Mike have are correct or wrong turns on the path to solving the mystery. I can’t wait until I get the opportunity to read another in this series!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Sarah Devereauxhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngSarah Devereaux2021-07-20 19:34:452021-07-22 19:07:57Houses of Deception (The Madeline Dawkins Mystery Series Book 6) by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Sarah Devereaux
I love The Madeline Dawkins mystery series. Cynthia Hamilton has a way of keeping the story on point and keeping moving. The plotline kept me on the edge of my seat and it was full of ups and downs, twists and turns, and total blindsided by what just happened. I love the characters. They are fully developed and complex in nature. Madeline is back in her detective role. She is looking for some missing people. Madeline is working with Mike on two separate missing person cases, but what they did not see coming was the people whom they were looking for may not be on the up and up. What will Madeline and Mike find out about working on these cases? I highly recommend this book, but make sure you have time to read it all.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Erica Fishhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngErica Fish2021-07-20 18:03:552021-07-22 18:41:15Houses of Deception (The Madeline Dawkins Mystery Series Book 6) by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Erica Fish
Having read and enjoyed the previous five books in this series I was looking forward to Hamilton’s latest novel and was definitely not disappointed. ‘Houses of Deception’ is the sixth instalment in the Madeline Dawkins series and it was great to be back with our heroine Madeline and her now husband Mike. The pair make a great private investigating team and in this story they have their hands full juggling two cases with three missing people involved. The first case sees the couple teaming up with Russell Barnett their former nemesis, but they agree to work together as the missing person is Dylan Latham, the son of Burt who lost his life saving Madeline’s. Not only is Dylan missing but also his girlfriend Paige and they appear to have disappeared without a trace. Then when a women is kidnapped and a ransom is asked for, her husband reaches out to the MDPI team. As the team start investigating knowing they have no time to waste they uncover secrets, lies and shameful pasts whilst having to navigate ransom drops, stolen art, and extortion schemes. Soon they start to wonder if the missing people are actually innocent victims after all.
As usual I was drawn into Madeline and Mike’s world and was hooked from page one. The exciting and complex storyline had me gripped and the plot twists kept me guessing until the last page. Madeline and Mike continue to be a great team who I feel I am working alongside to solve the cases with them as the author makes them come alive. I enjoy the banter between them which makes them seem like a realistic couple and also makes them feel very relatable. Although it can be read as a standalone story the characters and storylines do crossover and I would recommend reading the rest of the series as each book is better than the last.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Gordonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Gordon2021-07-20 16:28:212021-07-22 18:39:34Houses of Deception (The Madeline Dawkins Mystery Series Book 6) by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Jennifer Gordon
Houses of Deception (The Madeline Dawkins Mystery Series Book 6) by Cynthia Hamilton is totally a book you could read without having read the first five books in the series. The novel itself is fast-paced and draws you in from the first page. The characters are compelling, and it was very easy to fall right into their world and believe it. The chemistry of Madeline and Mike is intriguing and makes the story captivating. If you are into mysteries with tons of action, this is definitely a good one. I was held ransom by the suspense and found myself trying to solve each case. This is the first book I’ve read by this author, and you can bet I’m going to go back and read the previous five. I give this book four stars!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Christine J. Spulakhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngChristine J. Spulak2021-07-20 15:58:232021-07-22 18:38:53Houses of Deception (The Madeline Dawkins Mystery Series Book 6) by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Chrissy Spulak
Houses Of Deception by Cynthia Hamilton is the sixth book in the fantastic Madeline Dawkins series. Each book in the series has been exciting and a thrill to read and this book certainly carries on that tradition. This whole book was detailed and complex. The story twisted this way and that and really kept you in your toes the whole wait through. I really love diving back into this series. It never takes me long to become fully invested in the characters again. This is a really strong series that keeps getting better and better. I am looking forward to whatever is next.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kerry Bakerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKerry Baker2021-07-20 15:35:132021-07-22 18:36:26Houses of Deception (The Madeline Dawkins Mystery Series Book 6) by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Kerry Baker
This is the sixth book in the Madeline Dawkins series and I don’t know how but Cynthia Hamilton keeps making them better than the last. In this story we are reunited with our strong and fearless heroine in Madeline along with her now husband Mike. Together then make up a great investigative team and each case they gets is always never as it seems. And the cases in this book are no exception.
The first case involves a couple who are already Madeline’s clients. Well clients of her other business of party organising. Troy and Tara. At the couples 5th wedding anniversary everything seems perfect in their life, however when Tara is kidnapped and her life threatened Troy reaches out to Madeline and Mike to find and rescue her. However what they find as they start investigating is that things aren’t what they first seemed and someone is hiding things.
The second case they have is to find a missing man called Dylan Latham. Dylan is the son of Burt Latham( Burt was responsible for helping Madeline and saving her life). When Dylan is reported to them as missing Madeline starts the hunt and again things soon take a twist. Not only is Dylan missing but also his girlfriend Paige. Could this just be a case of a young couple running away together? Or has something more sinister happend? Is it connected to the help Burt gave Madeline or has Dylan’s girlfriend uncovered something that has placed them in danger?
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kerry Carrhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKerry Carr2021-07-20 10:29:572021-07-22 18:28:41Houses of Deception (The Madeline Dawkins Mystery Series Book 6) by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Kerry Carr
Houses of Deception (The Madeline Dawkins Series Book 6) By Cynthia Hamilton
4-stars
This was a truly phenomenal suspense read from start to finish! This was my first book by this author so I can honestly say that this book can be read as a standalone as I hadn’t read any previous books of the series and I had no issues jumping in and piecing together all of the details.
From the very beginning I was intrigued; the author managed to captivate me and keep me guessing the whole way through. I loved all of the twist and turns, added surprise elements and of course all the mystery.
I look forward to reading more from this author in the near future!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kaitlynn Taylorhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKaitlynn Taylor2021-07-20 10:28:182021-07-22 18:27:35Houses of Deception (The Madeline Dawkins Mystery Series Book 6) by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Kaitlynn Taylor
Houses of Deception (The Madeline Dawkins Mystery Series Book 6) by Cynthia Hamilton. This is the 6th book in the Madeline Dawkins Series and can be read as a standalone but is much better if you read them in order. Its the continuing story of the MDPI team who consists of Mike and Madeline Delaney. After they attend a party given by Tara & Troy Richardson they get a call the next morning that Tara is missing. They have been given the message that if the police are called they will kill Tara so they hire Mike and Madeline. At the same time they have another missing person case come up and they are trying to give them both equal attention. Will they be able to find the victims before its too late? Will the missing people be as innocent as they seem? Read this page turning mystery to find out!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tausha Treadwayhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTausha Treadway2021-07-20 09:50:542021-07-22 19:36:10Houses of Deception (The Madeline Dawkins Mystery Series Book 6) by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Tausha Treadway
This is a series I have enjoyed from the first book. This author has done such a great job with the mystery and suspense aspects of this story. I enjoyed being pulled into the story from the beginning and kept engaged to the end. This is a fast paced story that is full of action and one of my favorite characters Madeline Dawson. There is much going on in this book but the author did a great job of keeping the details straight so I didn’t get lost. Madline is back in another mystery of missing people and two cases are anything but what it looks like and of course you can’t forget about Mike who is also back in this mystery story. I enjoyed the twists and turns and how they kept me turning pages. This is truly a great story that I highly recommend.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Bobbi Wagnerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngBobbi Wagner2021-07-20 08:19:232021-07-22 18:24:39Houses of Deception (The Madeline Dawkins Mystery Series Book 6) by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Bobbi Wagner
Houses of Deception (The Madeline Dawkins Series Book 6) by Cynthia Hamilton is another great addition to this mystery series. Cynthia knows how to write a good mystery. Her narrative always takes the reader on a journey that is as suspenseful and intriguing as it is mysterious. I love the wonderful and lovable characters she infuses so much heart and soul into. I love the twists and trying to see where Cynthia is taking us, but I usually get it wrong.
I have said it before, and I will say it again I adore both Madeline and Mike as a team and the way they think and solve their mysteries. Nothing is ever as it seems, and this may be the one time they may be in way over their heads.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jenni Bishophttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJenni Bishop2021-07-20 07:55:512021-07-22 18:24:09Houses of Deception (The Madeline Dawkins Mystery Series Book 6) by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Jenni Bishop
And two cases that are anything but what they seem.
The MDPI team agrees to join forces with former nemesis Russell Barnett to find Dylan Latham, the son of the man who lost his life while working to save Madeline’s.
The investigation turns into a hunt for two twenty-somethings who’ve disappeared without a trace, starting at the home of land rich Cat Kingman, an eccentric woman in her late-70s. Madeline and Mike soon find themselves wading through a shameful past for clues as they scramble to save two young lives.
A frantic early-morning phone call from a client of Madeline’s Current Affairs event enterprise propels the detectives down a rabbit hole as a missing person case turns into a kidnapping for ransom.
Now juggling two cases, Madeline and Mike can’t afford to waste any time. But as they dive deeper into both investigations, red flags and gut feelings cause them to question whether the people they’re searching for are really innocent victims—or guilty parties responsible for orchestrating sinister plots.
As they navigate ransom drops, stolen art, and extortion schemes, the two cases prove to be more complicated than either investigator can imagine.
What lies will unravel if they find Dylan, Paige, and Tara? And what secrets will stay hidden if they don’t?
Houses of Deception is the sixth installment in the Madeline Dawkins series.
Cynthia Hamilton started writing 2000 as a means of coping with a mystery illness that was finally diagnosed as Late-Stage Lyme Disease nine years after the onset. Writing has been her lifeline and a way to channel that overly-active inner voice. That horrible disease turned out to be a blessing in disguise, giving her a career she never imagined for herself, one that never gets old.
As of 2021, she has 13 books to her credit, 11 which are in print. She is currently working on the 7th book in the Madeline Dawkins Mystery Series, “Other People’s Money.” She lives in Santa Barbara, California with her husband of 41 years. She loves reading, writing and walking for hours, especially on the beach. She considers herself immensely fortunate.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Houses-of-Deception-1.jpg346217itsybitsybookbitshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngitsybitsybookbits2021-07-20 00:01:012021-10-30 04:55:40Houses of Deception (The Madeline Dawkins Mystery Series Book 6) by Cynthia Hamilton
As a first-time reader of the Jarvis Mann Detective Series, I was very pleased to discover that R. Weir is a true-crime author. I love the twists and turns that are found in the plot. The characters are great, especially Jarvis.
Jarvis Mann is a private detective for hire. After discovering the death of a former colleague, a wealthy entrepreneur sends Jarvis to San Diego from Colorado to discover what took place and caused Rocky’s death. While in San Diego, Jarvis follows a lead that takes him into the gang territory of a particularly dangerous group. A second encounter with the group leads to a month of recovery and rehabilitation.
Returning to San Diego, his sights set on discovering the truth leads down a dark road. With people of unlimited means and a possible government agency on his heels, Jarvis continues his delve into the mystery of Rocky’s death. Can he solve the mystery before it’s too late?
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Ashley Doverhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAshley Dover2021-07-19 19:44:002021-07-22 18:09:21Mann in the Crossfire (Jarvis Mann Detective Series Book 8) by R Weir – Review by Ashley Dover
Janey is thrown back in time when she receives a letter from her sister, Kelly, who disappeared eight years ago. With the help of her friend Bryn, she sets in motion a plan to find out what happened to her sister.
Janey decides to become the Johnson family’s third nanny in six months. This was the job held by Ashley, whom Janey thinks is her sister from eight years ago. Janey steps in to help out the family hoping to become their next nanny. She works night and day only barely able to keep her friend, Bryn, apprised of her plan to find her sister. Unfortunately, things are not always as they seem in Redemption, Wisconsin.
Follow this twisted tale of Janey, the third nanny. Trust me! You will never believe the ending!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Ashley Doverhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAshley Dover2021-07-19 19:20:472021-07-22 18:03:59The Third Nanny (Secrets of Redemption) by Michele PW (Pariza Wacek) – Review by Ashley Dover
This is a very engrossing psychological thriller. Janey, in search of her long-lost sister, gets tangled up in the web of the Johnsons, the last family her sister worked for before disappearing. As she does her own investigative work to follow the threads to her sister, she becomes more tangled and enmeshed in the danger. This story definitely sends your mind reeling, casting about for answers as clues are steadily delivered. Janey’s childhood memories come sifting in through the present, adding colour and depth to what is really going on here. This is very well-written, and the pace of the plot was great and kept tensions high without going overboard. The characters were nuanced and their personalities diverse. Couldn’t put it down until I had read the final page.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Erica Shoebridgehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngErica Shoebridge2021-07-19 15:53:482021-07-22 17:57:44The Third Nanny (Secrets of Redemption) by Michele PW (Pariza Wacek) – Review by Erica Shoebridge
This is a new author for me which I enjoyed reading . This is a suspenseful story about a serial killer who has been locked up for a long time but now new murders are popping up. Is this serial killer back? Did the detective make a mistake and the wrong person is locked up? Could there be a copycat? Andrew is the detective who worked this case. He has since retired, is now a drunk and has lost so much to this case. Does he have it in him to take this on again? He is a great, strong character that I felt for. The case took so much of him the first time and now he is facing unanswered questions that he needs answers too. He made the story fun and entertaining to read. This is a great story that I highly recommend reading. It is worth the pick up for sure.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Bobbi Wagnerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngBobbi Wagner2021-07-18 14:00:172021-07-19 12:01:26Azrael by Matthew Huntley – Review by Bobbi Wagner
Lillian Ross has been silent for years regarding the horrific crimes she was convicted of committing. But she is finally ready to tell her story–but only to true crime writer, Allison McKinnon. Allison is used to writing about the victims–the aftermath, their families, and how they survive. She is drawn to Lilian’s story, however, and agrees to be her voice.
SPECTACULAR! The Murders of Lillian Ross reads like a true crime novel–including excerpts from police interviews, the trial, and interrogations. The story draws the reader in from page 1 and doesn’t let go! The emotions the story elicits, the trials that both Lillian and Allision confront from their past, and the magnificent writing style combine to make a 5 star read. Highly recommend!!!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kayla Bullockhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKayla Bullock2021-07-17 17:50:252021-07-19 10:46:39The Murders of Lillian Ross by Sirena Van Schaik – Review by Kayla Bullock
This book was written so powerfully. It is NOT for the faint of heart. It touches a lot of “taboo” subjects like abuse, rape, prostitution, as well as suicidal thoughts in graphic detail. You can tell that Sirena Van Schaik is writing from the heart and from experience, making this novel even more heartbreakingly wonderful. Once started, I couldn’t put it down. As a survivor myself, I really felt connected to the main character, Allison. Sirena Van Schaik described everything perfectly.
It takes a different direction than most books which makes it very unique on it’s own. It circles around the life, both past and present, of a true crime author named Allison. Allison is writing her next book about Lillian Ross, Lillian is in prison for the murder of two men.
Once Allison meets with Lillian at the prison, she realizes that they both have a lot in common. This makes Allison’s past come up to haunt her. When Lillian was first convicted for the murders, she didn’t even try to fight the sentences. Years later, she gets in contact with Allison finally ready to talk about why she took the life of two men. It is a heartbreaking tale of a bad childhood, which led into a bad, if not worse adult hood, until she just broke.
Sirena Van Schaik was very good of getting into the mind of the murderer and why she did what she did. The author also had a very good balance of switching from past and present of both main characters as well as throwing in some scenes of the court case, evidence, etc. I would recommend this book who is looking for something real.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Santana Hickshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngSantana Hicks2021-07-17 17:41:212021-07-19 10:45:45The Murders of Lillian Ross by Sirena Van Schaik – Review by Santana Hicks
“Watch your back. Keep your eyes open. And be careful who you trust. It was exhausting, pretending everything was normal. Even though I knew I couldn’t drop my guard for even a moment…”
WOW!!! WOW!!! WOW!!! I really am having trouble finding the words to do this book the justice it deserves. This was such a brilliant, twisty, and unpredictable read that I really couldn’t put down till I had read every single last word! Those last few chapters- OMG!!! I did not see that coming, that’s for sure. So well done!! Highly recommended!!! Must read!!! The Third Nanny by Michele Pariza Wacek intrigued me from the moment I laid eyes on it. I quickly snapped up a copy and dove in as psychological thrillers are my favourite genre of all- and this one promised to be great. As this was my first read from Michele PW, I really didn’t know what to expect going in- but I am soooo happy that I found her, finally- I really don’t know why I haven’t come across her work before now as she has quite a few books to her name- but all is right in the world because now I have a new author to add to my ‘must read’ list. The most exciting thing is that she has so many more books for me to buy and devour!! I love that feeling of discovery! The thrill of knowing that you are about to go on an epic book binge with an author you know won’t disappoint and one who I know I will love whatever it is she chooses to write. For this little ol’ book worm, there is nothing better! From the moment I opened this book, the intrigue began. Janey receives a letter form her sister who has been missing for eight years. Eight years of not knowing what happened to her. Eight years of wondering why she left. Eight years of not knowing if she was even alive still. Then the letter arrives, and that in itself is a bit of a puzzle- the letter is somewhat disturbing, speaking of danger, and begging for help- but is it already too late? Janey is now desperate to find her sister. And so this amazing puzzle begins. Janey embarks on her quest that will see her unravelling the mystery of her sister’s disappearance, the secrets and lies that she will have to unwind in order to find the truth. Her journey of discovery had me on the edge of my seat the whole way along- trying to piece everything together before the final reveal. But the ‘big reveal’ left me reeling- I didn’t expect that at all. So well done!!! The last few chapters were intense!!! This is a gripping psychological thriller, with a stalker, twists and turns, layers, suspense, palpable tension, danger, an unpredictable storyline, secrets, lies, obsession, paranoia, trauma, investigation, emotion, and a quest for answers. There are flashbacks to past events that really help to build the backstory and also adds to the tension of the story. Things are definitely not what they seem on the surface. Michele PW certainly knows how to instil tension and a chilling, creepy factor to her storyline which made her book unputdownable! Can’t wait to explore the rest of her books. #MUSTREAD
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2021-07-16 23:48:412021-07-19 10:11:50The Third Nanny (Secrets of Redemption) by Michele PW (Pariza Wacek) – Review by Angela Hayes
We may request cookies to be set on your device. We use cookies to let us know when you visit our websites, how you interact with us, to enrich your user experience, and to customize your relationship with our website.
Click on the different category headings to find out more. You can also change some of your preferences. Note that blocking some types of cookies may impact your experience on our websites and the services we are able to offer.
Essential Website Cookies
These cookies are strictly necessary to provide you with services available through our website and to use some of its features.
Because these cookies are strictly necessary to deliver the website, refuseing them will have impact how our site functions. You always can block or delete cookies by changing your browser settings and force blocking all cookies on this website. But this will always prompt you to accept/refuse cookies when revisiting our site.
We fully respect if you want to refuse cookies but to avoid asking you again and again kindly allow us to store a cookie for that. You are free to opt out any time or opt in for other cookies to get a better experience. If you refuse cookies we will remove all set cookies in our domain.
We provide you with a list of stored cookies on your computer in our domain so you can check what we stored. Due to security reasons we are not able to show or modify cookies from other domains. You can check these in your browser security settings.
Google Analytics Cookies
These cookies collect information that is used either in aggregate form to help us understand how our website is being used or how effective our marketing campaigns are, or to help us customize our website and application for you in order to enhance your experience.
If you do not want that we track your visit to our site you can disable tracking in your browser here:
Other external services
We also use different external services like Google Webfonts, Google Maps, and external Video providers. Since these providers may collect personal data like your IP address we allow you to block them here. Please be aware that this might heavily reduce the functionality and appearance of our site. Changes will take effect once you reload the page.
Google Webfont Settings:
Google Map Settings:
Google reCaptcha Settings:
Vimeo and Youtube video embeds:
Other cookies
The following cookies are also needed - You can choose if you want to allow them:
Privacy Policy
You can read about our cookies and privacy settings in detail on our Privacy Policy Page.
