TOXIC BLONDE is book 2 in The Delarosa Series and can be read as a stand-alone.
Johnny Delarosa is a private investigator and because this book is told in first person, I find myself narrating it in the old timey detective voice. Very noir in nature. There are layers and twists and suspense and everything that makes a detective series good.
This is an enjoyable read that was easy to follow and I definitely recommend it.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Maura Harperhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMaura Harper2019-10-19 17:56:302019-10-19 19:59:35Toxic Blonde (A Johnny Delarosa Thriller Book 2) by David Stever – Review by Maura Harper
Toxic Blonde by David Stever a five-star read that will keep you on the edge of your seat. This is the second story in the Delarosa Series, and I have read them in order and enjoyed them that way, I would recommend you read them in order to get the most out of them. Johnny Delarosa is described in such a great way that he is exactly as you picture an old time PI, he keeps the story going. The suspense is done very well, it keeps you hooked all the way through. The action is powerful enough to keep you on your toes but not overdone to the point that it drives you mad. Overall a very well-done story and one you shouldn’t miss.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Sara Oxtonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngSara Oxton2019-10-19 11:36:292019-10-19 14:36:12Toxic Blonde (A Johnny Delarosa Thriller Book 2) by David Stever – Review by Sara Oxton
Toxic Blonde is the 2nd book in the Johnny Delarosa Thriller Series by David Stever. I had loved the first book in the series and this one was even better. It is an action packed thriller that will grab you from the very beginning and have you on the edge of your seat right up to the very end. Stever sure knows how to write an amazing thriller. The story continually flows and is full of emotion, drama, suspense and intrigue. I could not put this book down. In this book Johnny thinks he has taken on another boring case proving that a husband is having an affair. In fact it turns out to be much, much more than that and Johnny ends up helping out the FBI in a case which also involves the Russian Mafia – a far cry from the boring cheating case he thought he had taken on. Again Johnny is helped out by his assistant Katie and Mike, his ex-partner when he was a cop, who he now owns a bar with. We are also introduced to Eric, a hacker, who has an outrageous personality. I really hope Eric continues to be part of the team in future books in this series as he added so much character to this book. If you enjoy an action packed thriller then this is definitely the book for you.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Karyn Taylorhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKaryn Taylor2019-10-19 08:54:382019-10-19 09:51:33Toxic Blonde (A Johnny Delarosa Thriller Book 2) by David Stever – Review by Karyn Taylor
Diamonds & Deception by Ellen Butler is the third book in the Karina Cardinal Mystery series. This can be read as a standalone but I recommend reading the series in order. Karina has gotten herself into another scrape but this time with not all on her own. Jillian, her sister, has gotten into some intrigue because of her friend Sadira. This is a fun, thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The location is D.C. and there are Russian Mob, gang members, diamonds and more. I highly recommend this read and bet you won’t want to put it down either.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Sheri Schraderhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngSheri Schrader2019-10-18 10:47:202019-10-18 12:50:00Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 3) by Ellen Butler – Review by Sheri Schrader
Toxic Blonde is the second book in A Johnny Delarosa thriller series by David Stever. If you like thrillers this will be right up your reading standards. David Stever can keep you guess on what the outcome will be. His stories have a deep mysterious plot line, plus complex characters. I love Johnny Delarosa. I can picture him in my mind’s eye and to me that makes me enjoy the story even more. There is everything to make this story a thriller. From Russian mobsters, FBI, whistle blowers, and a computer hacker that all play a part in this thriller. Will this be too much for Johnny Delarosa this time? Who can he trust? Is there someone lying in wait that noone sees coming? You will have to read the story to find out.
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 Fish2019-10-17 20:04:142019-10-18 23:30:50Toxic Blonde (A Johnny Delarosa Thriller Book 2) by David Stever – Review by Erica Fish
I absolutely adore the Johnny Delarosa Thrillers and Toxic Blonde was no exception to that. This book once again brings it all home with action, adventure, drama, suspense, and a bit of romance to keep things sweet, or spicy depending on how you want to look at it.
In Toxic Blonde we find Johnny Delarosa at it again trying to work a cheating spouse case. These tend to be what he is best at and despite the fact that things tend to get a bit more messy and complicated only seems to fuel his desire for these cases.
“Infidelity pays the bills, so says a wise old private eye.”
I really enjoyed Keira Kane, our main female character and as promised “the most beautiful femme fatale to ever travel the pages of crime fiction.” She definitely makes for some interesting reading. I would have to say she easily makes this one of my favorite sleuth/mystery reads that I have stumbled upon in years. I am so looking forward to seeing what the next Johnny Delarosa book will bring us.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Liz Vrchotahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLiz Vrchota2019-10-17 11:28:292019-10-17 12:06:19Toxic Blonde (A Johnny Delarosa Thriller Book 2) by David Stever – Review by Liz Vrchota
I am very glad to have found Stever and enjoyed this second book in the series as much as the first. Fast paced, action packed, and it kept me guessing. I really enjoy Stever’s writing style and character development. The plot moved quickly and I found myself zipping through the pages to figure out how everything would resolve. Very enjoyable read and one I would recommend to others.
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 Lovelace2019-10-16 21:19:162019-10-16 21:19:16Toxic Blonde (A Johnny Delarosa Thriller Book 2) by David Stever – Review by Heather Lovelace
Diamonds & Deception is the third book in the Karina Cardinal series by Ellen Butler. Let me just say Ellen Butler you know how to grab a reader and keep them engaged throughout the entire book. I would recommend reading the first two books so you will get to know Karina and become her book friend. Karina has a knack for getting into a tight spot. Being a mystery genre, I knew there were roller coaster rides but some of the twists and turns really dropped my jaw a couple of times. Will Karina be able to help the investigation? Will she be able to team up with her sister to solve this mystery or will she have to call in Mike to help her again? There are no hints here. You have to read the book to find out for yourself.
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 Fish2019-10-15 19:34:322019-10-15 19:57:14Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 3) by Ellen Butler – Review by Erica Fish
Diamonds and Deception by Ellen Butler is the third book in the Karina Cardinal Mystery Series. This is a series that is fast paced and full of twists and turns. You don’t necessarily have to have read these books in order although personally I think you will miss out on a lot of cha after and background development if you don’t. As usual this book was engaging and interesting. I found myself trying to figure it out as we went along. I find it really easily to slip straight back into these characters, even if it has been a while since I read the last book. Ellen Butler really does know how to create an intriguing story with great characters. You should definitely give this series a go!
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 Baker2019-10-15 15:10:322019-10-15 16:21:38Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 3) by Ellen Butler – Review by Kerry Baker
Ellen Butler’s Karina Cardinal Mystery series continues with Diamonds & Deception. Being book number three in the series you would think that you would know what to expect as far as storyline goes but Ellen Butler manages to keep things fresh, adventurous, and always exciting. I never for one moment find myself bored whenever I am absorbed in a Karina mystery.
I would highly recommend that you start with book one, Isabella’s Painting, if you haven’t done so prior to reading this one. The story and the mystery may be different with each book but the characters develop and often repeat. Their side stories keep things multidimensional and to fully enjoy it you will want the full picture.
Diamonds & Deception boasts a sneaky and complicated tale of mistaken identity and blows up into so much more. This has something for everyone in it from romance to mystery and doesn’t let up till the very last page where there is promise of more excitement to come in future books. I can’t wait to see what will come next for Karina and her sleuthing gang!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Liz Vrchotahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLiz Vrchota2019-10-15 14:37:122019-10-15 16:19:24Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 3) by Ellen Butler – Review by Liz Vrchota
I give Toxic Blonde: A Johnny Delarosa Thriller (The Delarosa Series Book 2) by David Stever, 5 stars.
PI Johnny is back and this time his case involves yet another cheating spouse. But hey, there’s good money in it. Only, this isn’t so simple. His client quickly fears for her life, and then the client’s uncle comes to him and says that there’s much more than just the husband cheating. He sounds a bit paranoid, but Johnny quickly realizes that it may all be true. But who or what is behind it all? Just how far will they go?
I loved the first book and could not wait to read this second one. I was yet again blown away. The author pulls you in with action quite quickly, unlike some books who draw it out. Then there are the characters, both the returning ones and the new ones. I love Johnny and the people he works with, it’s so great to seem them all again. You get to meet quite a few new people attached to this new case too. Every one if them is interesting and you’re left with who is actually guilty — like the great Agatha Christie, you can see how each one could be a suspect.
This book harkens back to the great PI novels of old, but adds an updated approach with new technology and younger secondary characters. I love that Johnny himself as well as his partner are older, they’ve seen more and have a different take than the young detectives. In my opinion, this is not something we see enough of.
If you are a fan of the classic whodunit, but with an updated twist, I highly recommend this book and series. You do not have to read book one to follow the story, but I do suggest it since it is also so good.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Erin Wolfhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngErin Wolf2019-10-14 10:24:232019-10-14 12:15:35Toxic Blonde (A Johnny Delarosa Thriller Book 2) by David Stever – Review by Erin Wolf
This is the second book in this series and PI Delarosa is back. This is a story full of action, suspense and mystery even some sitting on the edge of your seat page turning. In this installment Delarosa is back on a case. He takes on a case he thinks will just be a typical case until he has to invest his two friends help in solving it. These are a great group of characters that make you feel right there with them. I highly recommend reading this book and the previous one in this series.
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 Wagner2019-10-09 10:45:322019-10-09 10:45:32Toxic Blonde (A Johnny Delarosa Thriller Book 2) by David Stever – Review by Bobbi Wagner
Infidelity pays the bills, so says a wise old private eye. But for PI Johnny Delarosa, his routine cheating spouse case turns into a tangled mess when his client, Mary Ann Bellamy, is run off the road and left for dead. Her husband, the owner of a cutting-edge aerospace technology firm, puts his career and marriage at risk by having an affair with his senior executive, the sexy, enigmatic Keira Kaine—the most brutal femme fatale to ever travel the pages of crime fiction. When a whistle blower appears, along with the FBI, Russian mobsters, and an eccentric computer hacker, the case weaves through a maze of surprises that lead to a violent and stunning climax. Delarosa, along with his assistant, Katie, and partner, Mike, must learn who he can trust before the case turns into a homicide—his own.
David Stever is a novelist, screenwriter, and film producer. He writes the Johnny Delarosa mystery-thriller series, debuting with AUBURN RIDE, paying homage to the great detective fiction of the past. The series has been called “noir for the 21st Century.” Fans of hard-boiled, crime thriller books, complete with sexy femme fatales, will love the Delarosa series.
He is a member of the Private Eye Writers of America, the International Thriller Writers, and the Maryland Writers Association. Originally from Tyrone, Pennsylvania, he lives in Columbia, Maryland with his wife and family. Please visit www.davidstever.comand be sure to sign the mailing list for news and updates!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00itsybitsybookbitshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngitsybitsybookbits2019-10-09 00:01:312020-04-04 00:55:22Toxic Blonde (A Johnny Delarosa Thriller Book 2) by David Stever
This mystery kept me glued to the pages from beginning to end. I love how Butler continues to draw me in to this series. The characters are thoughtfully developed and I like watching the progression of our main character through each book. Overall I found this suspense to be another worthwhile tale and should be added to every mystery lover’s library.
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 Lovelace2019-10-07 22:37:592019-10-07 22:37:59Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 3) by Ellen Butler – Review by Heather Lovelace
This is the third book in this series, I enjoyed it just as much as the previous two. One of the things I enjoy most about this author is her ability to pull me into her story and keep me engaged until the end. This is a mystery and suspense that kept me guessing what would happen next. Karina and her sister Jilly team up to help find out who set up a friend. When they dig to deep and Karina is forced to call Mike, will he be there? I highly recommend finding out what happens in this story.
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 Wagner2019-10-07 17:11:112019-10-07 17:11:11Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 3) by Ellen Butler – Review by Bobbi Wagner
International bestselling and award-winning author Ellen Butler presents book three in the Karina Cardinal mystery series! Fans of Melinda Leigh and J.D. Robb, who love the humor of Janet Evanovich’s Stephanie Plum will adore this gripping mystery adventure.
The rainbows-and-unicorns period of her friends-to-lovers relationship with Mike Finnegan officially over, Karina Cardinal is taking a tactical retreat. No way is she calling him for rescue from one of her infamous “scrapes.”
Too bad trouble, if not her middle name, is a close relative.
Sadira Manon, friend and colleague of Karina’s sister Jillian, has been dropping way too much cash on designer labels for a middle school teacher. Even one who moonlights as a jewelry store clerk. But when she’s accused of theft, the loose diamond falling out of her purse is enough for the police to sing the song of their people—”Miranda Rights.”
Karina, Jilly, and Silverthorne Security join forces to investigate who’s setting Sadira up to take a fall, and why. They dig up a shady tangle of Russian mob ties and gambling debts. By the time Karina realizes they’ve dug too deep—and maybe a little too far outside the law—Jillian’s in trouble, and the only way out of this particular pot of hot water is to make that phone call…and hope Mike doesn’t let it go to voice mail.
Ellen Butler is a bestselling author writing critically acclaimed suspense and award-winning historical fiction. Her experiences working at a medical association in Washington, D.C. inspired the Karina Cardinal series. She is a member of Sister’s in Crime, International Thriller Writers, and the Office of Strategic Services Society.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00itsybitsybookbitshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngitsybitsybookbits2019-10-07 00:01:102020-05-28 17:32:47Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 3) by Ellen Butler
The Confectioner Chronicles: The Complete Fantasy Mystery Series contains all the instalments of The Confectioner’s Chronicles by Claire Luana. This is a really wonderful, imaginative and beautifully written series- with fantasy, mystery, magic, intrigue, adventure, danger, suspense, humour, fun, heartache, tension, conflict, hostile enemies, disappearances, investigations, romance, food, surprises, twists, drama, and action. I have adored all Ms. Luana’s books, and this series is no exception! She really knows how to weave a spellbinding story that hooks her readers right from the beginning.
The series consists of: -The Confectioner’s Guild (Book #1) -The Confectioner’s Coup (Book #2) -The Confectioner’s Truth (Book #3) -The Confectioner’s Exile (Prequel Novella)
The characters are so beautifully crafted- quirky, fully realised individuals who continued to develop and grow over the course of the series. They were so enchanting and added an extra element of appeal and interest to the whole story. Ms Luana has created a unique and wonderful world in which to set her story. Her imagination seems to know no bounds as she brings so many creative and unique elements to her storylines. It’s so wonderfully written- full of visual texture and intricate detailing. The story is complex- with many layers, all beautifully interwoven and stitched together quite seamlessly to produce these delightful reads.
All I can say is WOW- this series is well worth the read!
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 Hayes2019-09-06 15:48:132019-09-06 15:55:00The Confectioner Chronicles: The Complete Fantasy Mystery Series by Claire Luana – Review by Angela Hayes
The Confectioner Chronicles: The Complete Fantasy Mystery Series by Claire Luana is a unique YA fantasy, thriller, romance series that is full of magic and the unusual and should not be missed. It is also a murder mystery that is action packed and well paced. Claire weaves her magic with just the right amount of mystery and suspense, action and danger, romance and intrigue, heartache and love, humour and fun. I enjoyed the story so much that it finished before I was ready and I didn’t even notice because I was so enthralled to find out what was going to happen next. In book 1 Wren was falsely accused of murder by cupcake and has a month to find out who framed and who the actual murderer is and clear her name.
In book 2 Wren having barely survived, she is having to face enemies, both old and new as she tries to solve the mystery behind disappearing Guild members.
In book 3 Wren is heartbroken and still reeling from the loss and betrayal of others. On the run, tired, scared, hurt and faced with her past all the while the political unrest continues and Wren wonders if she will ever have her family back and lead a normal life again.
This series should be on everyone’s reading list. I mean books in one stop what could be better.
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 Bishop2019-08-31 19:23:582019-08-31 22:54:23The Confectioner Chronicles: The Complete Fantasy Mystery Series by Claire Luana – Review by Jenni Bishop
The Girls Across the Bay by Emerald O’Brien is book one of The Knox and Sheppard Mysteries series.
The storyline of this book is truly engaging and I couldn’t wait to get to the end to find out what was happening. The characters, Grace and Madigan were very well written and made reading the book more enjoyable. These girls bonded through tough circumstances and grew to have great strength. The small town setting is beautiful. I truly enjoy stories with these small town settings as it makes the story more relatable.
It was slightly distracting that the characters thoughts were italicized but I was able to overlook the distraction for the whole of the story. I would read the next book in the series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angelina Frazzinihttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngelina Frazzini2019-08-07 09:42:562019-08-07 10:05:51The Girls across the Bay (The Knox and Sheppard Mysteries, Book 1) by Emerald O’Brien – Review by Angelina Frazzini
The Girls Across the Bay (The Knox and Sheppard Mystery Book 1) By Emerald O’Brien My Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Emerald O’Brien takes a look into the lives of three small town residents as they dig into a mysterious death of a local housewife. The past shows its ugly head as unusual clues and coincidences tie them to a second mystery. As the investigation continues, they find that their own childhood nightmare is somehow linked to the crime. Grace has overcome many obstacles from her childhood to get to where she is today. She is a police detective who is all about the job. So when one fatal mistake finds her struggling to stay on the job, she finds herself starting over in Tall Pines. Madigan is a reporter for the local newspaper. She finds herself in a daily struggle to get that elusive front page story. Thane, her nemesis, is the editor go-to reporter and he always seems to be just one step ahead of Madigan. John is a troubled soul who finds his whole world turned upside down when his wife is found murdered in the living room of his home. His past and some mistakes have made him the prime suspect in a crime he couldn’t have committed, or could he? The author uses easy to read storytelling and unique characters to draw and keep our attention. Her descriptions help to make the characters real and you can almost feel the emotions that they are experiencing. The story unfolds at a quick pace, making this page turner hard to put down. I am excited to read the second book! I highly recommend this book!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Rhonda K Pulkhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRhonda K Pulk2019-08-06 19:54:262019-08-06 20:23:04The Girls across the Bay (The Knox and Sheppard Mysteries, Book 1) by Emerald O’Brien – Review by Rhonda Pulk
5 Star The Girls across the Bay (The Knox and Sheppard Mysteries, Book 1) by Emerald O’Brien is a wonderfully written mystery that had me on the edge of my seat trying to figure out what happens next.I was drawn in and hooked from the beginning and didn’t want to put it down till the end. Madigan and Grace became sisters years ago when they were both in the same Foster Home,and they formed a very strong bond. These two lived through a hellish nightmare and were then split up. Years later they were reunited . When a young woman is found dead ,Grace investigates it. What will happen when old wounds are reopened? What happens when secrets are revealed? Are they in danger? Find out what happens next in this must read Book. I can’t wait to read more from this Author.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Dawn Daughenbaughhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngDawn Daughenbaugh2019-08-06 19:22:322019-08-06 20:28:54The Girls across the Bay (The Knox and Sheppard Mysteries, Book 1) by Emerald O’Brien – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh
The pacing for this book was a bit meh. Similar aspects of detective/police/journalism seemed rushed in one part and nit picked at others. It could be one of those things where the formatting is deliberate and only becomes apparent on a second read. Some of the plot was confusing and I couldn’t really nail down a timeline but it didn’t really confuse me too much. Hopefully the next book will answer some of my questions and resolve a cliffhanger or two. All in all, this was a very nice read and I am looking forward to the next book in the series
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Emma Morrealehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngEmma Morreale2019-08-06 15:53:232019-08-06 16:33:57The Girls across the Bay (The Knox and Sheppard Mysteries, Book 1) by Emerald O’Brien – Review by Emma Morreale
I give The Girls Across the Bay (The Knox and Sheppard Mysteries Book 1) by Emerald O’Brien, 5 stars.
Madigan and Grace met in foster care when they were young and have been sisters ever since. Madigan is a reporter but is frustrated with her job. Grace is a cop who has ended up in a small town since an incident in the city. The two are struggling, but are stronger together. When a murder happens in their small town, the two try to figure out just what happens. But the more they find out, the more it looks like things from their past may be lurking. Will they get to the bottom of it? At what cost?
I really enjoyed this book. Both women have struggled in life, they’re very complicated characters. This makes this book so much more interesting. The other characters just round a good whodunit even more. The story itself is quite interesting too. There are so many twists and turns, which always makes for a great murder mystery. Not to mention all the possible suspects, but you will never know just what happened until the end. I cannot wait to read more of this series.
If you enjoy suspense murder mysteries with strong female main characters, this book is for you.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Erin Wolfhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngErin Wolf2019-08-06 13:13:372019-08-06 16:32:06The Girls across the Bay (The Knox and Sheppard Mysteries, Book 1) by Emerald O’Brien – Review by Erin Wolf
The Girls Across the Bay is the first of the instalment of the Knox and Sheppard series. It’s a mystery/thriller that follows the lives of two foster sisters, their careers and how they are merged together under some tragic circumstances. This was a detailed read and I loved how much we were thrown into the characters and their world. Although a longer read, I found I couldn’t put this down and finished it in one Sunday-afternoon sitting. If you love a good mystery and strong family ties, this is definitely the book for you!
This is one of those books that had me hooked from the moment I read the blurb. Not only was it creepy, it also mentioned two of my favourite careers to read about: detective and journalist. Don’t ask me why, but I just love characters in these lines of work; I find them so interesting and fun to read! With Grace and Madigan also being family, I knew this was going to be a book I would enjoy. And the story did not disappoint. While it took me a while to get my head around the logistics and connections of the plot, I can’t deny that I was hooked on the story from the very beginning. The elusiveness of Grace and Madigan’s past is enough to keep you interested but throw in a murder, some romance and colleague rivalry, and you have the makings for a really entertaining read. Seeing Grace and Madigan battle with their colleagues was one of my favourite parts of this book, even if it was a little frustrating at times!
The murder of a local women is the heart of the story and let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a good murder mystery? The investigation of the crime was actually really well paced and well written. It didn’t drag on for too long, nor did it feel rushed and unnatural, which can often be the case with mysteries when they are too romance heavy. I liked the twist of having Madigan’s journalist career involved in the investigation, too, as this offered a different perspective to things.
If you can’t already tell, I really enjoyed this book. After being in a bit of a reading slump, this has definitely peaked my interests and got me back into a reading mood, especially for mysteries. This was a fab start to a new series and I know I will be buying the rest of the books. Thanks to the author for such a great read!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Ashleigh Whitwellhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAshleigh Whitwell2019-08-06 12:50:002019-08-06 16:31:12The Girls Across The Bay (The Knox and Shepphard Mysteries, Book 1) by Emerald O’Brien – Review by Ashleigh Whitwell
The Girls Across The Bay by Emerald O’Brien was a thrilling 5 star read and book one in the Knox and Sheppard series.
Madigan and Grace are sisters by heart, they lived in a foster home that brought on some abusive situations until the foster father was arrested and the girls were split up. We start out with each of them as adults, Madigan is a journalist and Grace is a police officer.
Grace has moved to Deerhorn County, the girls are excited to find themselves close together again. When there is a murder, things take a twist and some things from the past come back.
There were so many twist and turns I didn’t know which way was up at times. I love a story that keeps me wondering and I wasn’t disappointed. We get dual POV so that we can get both girls perspective on things. Overall this was a thrilling mystery with so much going on, Emerald O’Brien does a great job with her writing. I was done before I knew it. I can’t wait to read more from this series. 1-click and get started today.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Michelle Austinhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMichelle Austin2019-08-04 21:53:412019-08-04 22:07:11The Girls across the Bay (The Knox and Sheppard Mysteries, Book 1) by Emerald O’Brien – Review by Michelle Austin
This mystery shows you that you don’t have to be blood to create a deep family bond that lasts forever! Madigan Knox and Grace Sheppard are sisters, bound together as children through tragic events in foster care that shape the people they will become in ways they don’t even realize. The Girls Across the Bay gives us an in depth look into the minds and hearts of its characters from childhood to adulthood, showing us both their strengths and weaknesses. Madigan is a journalist and Grace a detective in the small town of Tall Pines. As Madigan and Grace work to solve a murder, they take the reader on a ride that keeps you guessing and has you on the edge of your seat page after page! It’s a mental and emotional rollercoaster you won’t want to get off! I couldn’t put this book down and look forward to finding out what happens next!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Michelle Kinghttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMichelle King2019-08-04 06:19:042019-08-04 06:29:52The Girls Across the Bay (The Knox and Sheppard Mysteries, Book 1) by Emerald O’Brien – Review by Michelle King
The Trouble With Paradise (A Madeline Dawkins Mystery Book 4) by Cynthia Hamilton. This is the 4th book in the Madeline Dawkins Mystery series. These have been such fun books to read. This is the story of 2 dead husbands and their wives. One wife is in jail for the crazy tractor death of her much older husband and the other wife is convinced that her husband’s death was not a suicide like they are trying to make her believe. Madeline has been on rest for 4 months and during that time her ex husband in jail has gotten parole and has asked Mike to help him figure out if Lindsay Bartholomew was set up for her husband’s death. At the same time Santa Barbara District Attorney Conrad Adams is helping Mike and Madeline search for answers in Lindsay Bartholomew’s husband “suicide”. Will Mike and Madeline solve these mysteries before someone else dies and will they discover that these 2 men had a lot more in common than it seems. Read The Trouble with Paradise 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 Treadway2019-07-31 20:32:522019-08-01 12:48:42The Trouble With Paradise (A Madeline Dawkins Mystery Book 4) by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Tausha Treadway
With even more page turning suspense and a little extra romance for Madeline and Mike, the fourth installment of the Madeline Dawkins Mysteries is fantastic. Two different women with dead husbands need help for almost opposite reasons. One isn’t convinced of her husband’s suicide and the other might have been framed for her husband’s bizarre death. Madeline’s trash bag ex asks for help and out of the goodness of his heart, Mike says yes. Yes, the help is for Lindsay but I still think Steve had some nerve even asking. Mike and Madeline have hearts really too good for their world and are prepared to do whatever it takes to help these two women.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Emma Morrealehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngEmma Morreale2019-07-31 16:14:532019-07-31 16:31:49The Trouble With Paradise (A Madeline Dawkins Mystery Book 4) by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Emma Morreale
The Trouble With Paradise (A Madeline Dawkins Mystery Book 4) by Cynthia Hamilton is a five star novel. I have loved getting to know Madeline and Mike as people over the course of the first three books. Having more to devour, only makes this series better. This time, the duo has started investigating the deaths of two people. One, the wife was in prison for killing her husband and two, the police said it was a suicide. Once the pair is put to the task, they start finding out more and more. What they uncover is truly crazy and I did not see it coming. This book was difficult to put down and I didn’t do much of that until it was finished!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Julie Lounellohttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJulie Lounello2019-07-28 22:50:232019-07-29 08:13:37The Trouble With Paradise (A Madeline Dawkins Mystery Book 4) by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Julie Lounello
The Trouble with Paradise (Madeline Dawkins Mystery) by Cynthia Hamilton
Another great mystery in a great series. I love to read about Mike and Madeline and how they solve their next case. This story kept me on the edge of my seat while I was anticipating what was going to happen next. The author does a wonderful job weaving a suspenseful story full of action and interesting characters. I have loved reading this series from the start. I can’t wait to read the next book by this amazing author. I highly recommend this book.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Candida Hopperhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngCandida Hopper2019-07-28 17:33:442019-07-28 19:12:46The Trouble With Paradise (A Madeline Dawkins Mystery Book 4) by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Candida Hopper
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