Audible Book Review: Portrait in Death by J.D. Robb

This has warm romance to offset a creepy killer.
Portrait in Death
In Death, book 16
By: J. D. Robb
Narrated by: Susan Ericksen

Series: In Death, Book 16
Length: 14 hrs and 2 mins
Unabridged Audiobook
Release date: 06-06-13
Language: English
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Genre: Female Detective, Mystery
My Rating: 4.75 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
After a tip from a reporter, Eve Dallas finds the body of a young woman in a Delancey Street dumpster. Just hours before, the news station had mysteriously received a portfolio of professional portraits of the woman. The photos seemed to be nothing out of the ordinary for any pretty young woman starting a modeling career. Except that she wasn't a model. And that these photos were taken after she had been murdered. Now Dallas is on the trail of a killer who's a perfectionist and an artist. He carefully observes and records his victim's every move. And he has a mission: to own every beautiful young woman's innocence, to capture her youth and vitality - in one fateful shot....
©2003 Nora Roberts (P)2013 Brilliance Audio, Inc.

Review:
This episode kicks off with Eve looking forward to peace at home as Roark’s majordomo, Summerset, is set to leave on vacation. A misstep causes a delay in that happy plan.

Eve gets a dead body tip from her reporter friend, Nadine. They stand at odds when Eve first refuses Nadine access at the crime scene and then demands that Nadine turn over any files and photos she has regarding the killing.

The photos show a young woman staged as a model – in death. Eve has no witnesses, but several suspects emerge as they pick apart the photos. She must discover an artist obsessed with capturing the innocence and vitality of his victims.

While Eve is busy investigating, Roarke learns a disturbing bit of his own history that causes him to withdraw into himself. The resulting tension and make up scenes are a strong part of this book. JD Robb (Nora Roberts) does an exquisite job of conveying Roarke’s pain, anger and withdrawal. Eve has to fight to get him to share what he has learned. Then, as he has often supported her, she must make an effort to be there when he needs her. This was a wonderfully warm romance element during the investigation of a twisted killer.

The usual great dialogue rapport is present between Eve and Roarke and with Eve’s team members, Peabody, McNab, Baxter and Feeney. There are also moments with Nadine, Summerset and Mavis. All fun and feisty. There is some bad language and of course grittiness related to murders. Still, this provides engaging characters with new mysteries in each book. I recommend the series to those who enjoy strong female detectives hunting down twisted killers.

Audible Notes: Susan Ericksen is the voice of these characters. She portrays each with a unique voice and energy suitable to their character. It is a pleasure to listen to this series which sometimes keeps me up too late. As always, this is great entertainment and narrated with skill and personality.

Source: Audible 2016 sale purchase. This qualifies for Audiobook, TBR and "P" for my Alphabet Challenge.

Audible Book Review: Seduction in Death: In Death, Book 13 by J. D. Robb

This is another entertaining crime investigation with two of my fav characters, Eve and Roarke.
Seduction in Death: In Death, Book 13
Written by: J. D. Robb
Narrated by: Susan Ericksen

Length: 12 hrs and 56 mins
Series: In Death, Book 13
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date:05-15-13
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Genre: Crime Thriller
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
Dante had been courting his victim in cyberspace for weeks before meeting her in person. A few sips of wine and a few hours later, she was dead. The murder weapon: a rare, usually undetectable date-rape drug with a street value of a quarter million dollars. Detective Eve Dallas is playing and replaying the clues in her mind. The candlelight, the music, the rose petals strewn across the bed - a seduction meant for his benefit, not hers. He hadn't intended to kill her. But now that he has, he is left with only two choices: to either hole up in fear and guilt or start hunting again....
©2001 Nora Roberts (P)2013 Brilliance Audio, Inc.

Review:
Eve Dallas knows that evil comes in all shapes and sizes. She is a detective who fights for the innocent dead. The latest victim is a young woman who had fallen onto the sidewalk from her high up apartment. Eve quickly recognizes that the death is not a suicide. The evidence shows that someone romanced her with flowers and wine. Eve correctly suspects she died from an accidental, but lethal, overdose or mix of rare date-rape drugs.

The security cameras caught images of the perpetrator, and he left a trail of fingerprints and DNA. But none of that is in the system and it appears that not even his face is real. Eve and her team are going to have to go the long route to track down the expensive shoes, clothing, flowers, wine, wig, make-up traces and, most importantly, the hard to get drugs, in an effort to tie them to the killer.

A few nights later another young woman is found murdered. This time the death is clearly not accidental - it is intentional and brutal. There is no trace evidence left at the scene of this fragile young woman. Either the killer is upping his game or there is more than one person involved.

Eve is determined, as always, to get the killer(s) before more young ladies die. She isn’t beyond using a little computer help from Roarke who is brought on board as a civilian consultant to help Eve think more like a man in this process of seduction.

The plot is detailed, a bit gritty because of the sexual/rape nature of the crimes, and has effective twists. JD Robb (Nora Roberts) does a wonderful job weaving personal character issues (this episode has the estranged romance between Peabody and McNab) in the background of the crime investigation. This story also reveals the crimes from the view of the killer(s) which adds interest. These books are always reliable entertainment and I will continue to download and listen to them as there is a long list ahead.

Audio Notes: Susan Erickson does her usual wonderful job of narrating this series. She has these characters pinned with personality and voice. I really enjoy listening to the books as I can follow them while doing mindless chores - vacuuming, folding laundry, etc. It makes for enjoyable and productive use of my time.

I purchased this with an Audible credit to continue in the series. This qualifies for my 2015 Audio Challenge.

Book Review and Giveaway: Interlude In Death: In Death, Book 12.5 by J. D. Robb

This is a quick novella that shows true Eve Dallas intensity.

Interlude In Death: In Death, Book 12.5
by J. D. Robb

• Publisher: Berkley (2006)
• ASIN: B000J1BO82

Genre: Futuristic, Crime Thriller
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: August 29, 2006
Publisher's Summary
In early spring of 2059, Lieutenant Eve Dallas is called off planet to face a grueling ordeal - giving a seminar at the largest police conference of the year, to be held in a swanky resort. A resort which just happens to be owned by her husband, Roarke, of course.
Even though Eve can't quite see it that way, it's supposed to be at least partly a vacation. But work intrudes in the form of a bloody homicide, and Eve is off and running. The case is complicated by Eve's personal history with the victim - and by the killer's history with Roarke. As danger closes in and the body count rises, Eve must find a way to stop the cycle of violence and revenge, and shove the past back where it belongs.

Review:
I have to admit that I am pleasantly surprised that each book in this series brings its own complete mystery event as well as the growing relationships among the characters.
Roarke has accompanied Eve, and many of her NY team, to one of his off planet resorts for a police conference. It’s a toss up which Eve likes least: space travel or leading a seminar. Roarke is hoping they can enjoy some of the luxuries of the resort as a bit of a vacation after her seminar.

Eve’s strong personality–sometimes popular, sometimes no–is shadowed by the attendance of a legendary 50 year icon in the police world, retired Commander Douglas Skinner. Even Peabody is awestruck. Eve is summoned by Skinner only to learn that he is a chauvinist and has it in for Roarke. He thinks he can bribe her to assist in taking Roarke down. As if! When Eve moves to step away she is blocked by one of Skinner’s security guards.

Next thing you now, fortunately– or not– for Eve, the guard shows up dead with Roarke as a prime suspect. At least the murder takes Eve’s attention away from her other issues, even though she is not in jurisdiction and has to share command with local authority. Peabody, Feeney and Dr. Mira get to assist in helping to profile and track the killer.

Once again there is wonderful interaction in the team, including Roarke. The mystery is well thought out even, or especially, for a quick novella. The action is fast paced and I thoroughly enjoyed the read.

Reading this alone would give the reader a good sense of the formula of this engaging series. However, I do recommend reading the books in order to get the full character development and interaction. Now I am ready for the next one on audio!

I checked the list and this came before the next one I was preparing to listen to on audio. It just so happens this was in my TBR box. :-)

ONE PRINT COPY GIVEAWAY

Since it is small I am including US and Canada.

ENTRY FORM HERE

(Don't forget to fill in the form for entry!
I have noticed a few commenters who forgot to enter through the Form.)

For 3 Extra Bonus entries  (a) comment on the review, OR

(b) tell me a favorite character in the series and why

OR

(c) visit THE AUTHOR'S WEBSITE and tell me something you like/learned there.

* This contest is open to US/CANADA only for Print Copy.
* This contest will close 7 PM (Central) March 31, 2015.
WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED after March 31, 2015.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond on the winners form linked in the announcement or by email.

Audio Book Review: Betrayal in Death: In Death, Book 12 Written by: J. D. Robb

Another great mystery in this entertaining series.

Betrayal in Death: In Death, Book 12

Written by: J. D. Robb

Narrated by: Susan Ericksen

Length: 12 hrs and 8 mins

Series: In Death, Book 12

Release Date:05-20-08

Publisher: Brilliance Audio

Genre: Crime Thriller

My Rating: 4.75 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary

At the luxurious Roarke Palace Hotel, a maid walks into suite 4602 for the nightly turndown - and steps into her worst nightmare. A killer leaves her dead, strangled by a thin silver wire. He's Sly Yost, a virtuoso of music and murder. A hit man for the elite. Lieutenant Eve Dallas knows him well. But in this twisted case, knowing the killer doesn't help solve the crime. Because there's someone else involved. Someone with a more personal motive. And Eve must face a terrifying possibility - that the real target may, in fact, be her husband Roarke.

Crack another case with Eve Dallas.

©2007 J. D. Robb; (P)2007 Brilliance Audio

Review:
Eve’s gorgeous husband, (hunky Irishman) Roarke, is hosting, at his premier hotel, a prestige auction for a mature movie star selling her memorabilia. The actress and her handsome son are working to make the event a big success to raise funds to fund a foundation to help young actors. .

Roarke and Eve are at a pre-auction preview when Eve is called to a murder of a maid in one of the suites. Although the maid is no one of great importance the killer’s signature is well known. The very brutal killing, ending in humiliation and stragulation by silver wire, is a recognizable MO of an assassin who has been slipping by authorities, including the FBI, for years. Now the killer has stepped into Eve’s territory and made it personal by killing someone associated with Roarke.

The FBI who try to muscle in on the case are not readily cooperative. The female agent has some sensibilities but the male shows outspoken dislike for Roarke and distain for Eve. His arrogance is clearly going to get in the way of the investigation.

An old childhood mate of Roarke’s, Mick, shows up for a surprise visit. He admits he is a rogue and a thief but he would never hurt Roarke and although he loves a good brawl, killing is not his thing.

Eve and her team dive in with their usual meticulous attention to detail and a little added internet help from Roarke. After a second murder Eve and Roarke know that it won’t be enough to find the hit man. They must determine who paid the fees to kills innocents associated with Roarke. Eve is able to track the assassin within a week but the FBI insist on making, and flubbing, the bust. Now Eve and Roarke must search his history to determine the next victim before the killer can strike again.

Eve and Roarke have to balance their singularly independent and protective-of-each other natures. Peabody and McNab have to cope with their increasing intimacy while trying to maintain their professional duties. There is tension, suspense and emotion that keep the reader/listener on edge.

I have to give a big “Thank You” and kudos to J.D. Robb (Nora Roberts). She does a great job keeping the relationships among these characters interesting while provided an entertaining mystery with each story. I have now finished book 12 and she is on number 40! I am glad there is lots of entertainment still to come. There is some bad language in this series, which, fortunately, flows by quickly. The murders tend to be fairly graphic as the forensics and details play an important part in each story. The total package is worthwhile entertainment for avid mystery fans.

Audio Notes: Susan Ericksen does an excellent job with the character voices and personalities. She has this series down to a fine art and I am very quickly engrossed when I begin each new audiobook. I can highly recommend this series in audio as the narration enhances the character relationships and the suspense of the mystery.

This audiobook is a choice from my own Audible Library. It qualifies for my 2015 Audiobook Challenge, TBR Dare, Winter COYER, “B” in Alphabet Soup, and Continuing a Series in Full House Challenge.

Audible Book Review plus Giveaway: Judgment in Death by J.D.Robb

This is a gripping installment in this series.
Judgment in Death
by J.D.Robb
Narrated by: Susan Ericksen

• Length: 12 hrs and 21 mins 
• • Series: In Death, Book 11
• Format: Unabridged




Release Date:05-20-08
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Program Type: Audiobook

Publisher's Summary
In an uptown strip joint, a cop is found bludgeoned to death. The weapon's a baseball bat. The motive's a mystery. It's a case of serious overkill that pushes Eve Dallas straight into overdrive. Her investigation uncovers a private club that's more than a hot spot. Purgatory's a last chance for atonement where everyone is judged. Where your most intimate fate depends on your most intimate sins. And where one cop's hidden secrets are about to plunge innocent souls into vice-ridden damnation.
Crack another case with Eve Dallas.
©2007 J. D. Robb; (P)2007 Brilliance Audio

Review:
Eve Dallas is called in to investigate another murder in her jurisdiction. She discovers that the murder victim is a cop who was apparently working a second job as club security. Under his body Eve finds thirty silver credit chips. The club, Purgatory, is owned by Eve’s business magnate husband, Roarke.

Eve presses into the details uncovering facts that make it look like the cop was on the take, receiving monies from a criminal boss, Max Ricker. Ricker had escaped arrest recently in circumstances that looked like police information had been leaked. As Eve pushes her investigation into which cops were involved with the failed arrest she bumps into IAB (Internal Affairs Bureau) Lieutenant Webster who unofficially warns her off the case.

Ricker was once a partner with Roarke before Roarke decided Ricker was bad business as Roarke was in the process of cleaning up all his business affairs to legitimate interests. Ricker hates Roarke and isn’t beyond using Eve to get to Roarke. As the book moves along Eve has a childhood memory that reveals a surprising connection to her own past as well. Ricker’s threats against Eve set Roarke on edge and create a tension at home between Eve and Roarke.

The plot clearly involves a killer who is angry by “betrayal”in the system and seeks his own justice. Eve is her usual determined and gutsy self in doggedly pursuing the leads. The tension between Eve and Roarke creates a good emotional interest to add to the mystery. As usual the regular characters, Peabody, Dr. Mira, Mavis and more, add great personality to the story.

I listened to this audio book every chance I got as it was so engrossing. It is one of my favorite in the series so far.

Audio Notes: I love Susan Ericksen as the narrator of this series. She never fails to surprise me at the versatile voices and emotional intensity she nails with her narration. This is a great series to listen to in audio!

I purchased this through my Audible subscription and will continue the series.

Giveaway:

I happened to pick up this Audio Cassette recently with several other In Death titles at a thrift shop.
ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for a used Audio Cassette - appears to be in good working condition.

ENTRY FORM HERE

(Don't forget to fill in the form for entry! I have noticed a few commenters who forgot to enter through the Form.)

For 3 Extra Bonus entries comment on the review, OR

visit THE AUTHOR'S WEBSITE and tell me something you like/learned there.

* This contest is open to U.S. address only for cassette audio book.
* This contest will close 5 PM (Central) July 12, 2014.
WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED after July 12, 2014.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

Audio Book Review: Witness in Death: In Death, Book 10 by J.D. Robb

Another thoroughly engaging mystery with Eve Dallas and her team, including husband, Roarke.
Witness in Death: In Death, Book 10
Written by: J. D. Robb
Narrated by: Susan Ericksen

Length: 11 hrs and 22 mins
Series: In Death, Book 10
Format: Unabridged
Release Date:05-20-08
Publisher: Brilliance Audio

Genre: Crime Thriller
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
Opening night at New York's New Globe Theater turns from stage scene to crime scene when the leading man is stabbed to death center stage. Now Eve Dallas has a high profile, celebrity homicide on her hands. Not only is she lead detective, she's also a witness - and when the press discovers that her husband owns the theater, there's more media spotlight than either can handle. The only way out is to move fast. Question everyone and everything...and in the meantime, try to tell the difference between the truth - and really good acting.
Crack another case with Eve Dallas.
©2007 J. D. Robb; (P)2007 Brilliance Audio

Review:
This is another good mystery to be solved by Lieutenant Eve Dallas with help from Roarke and Dr Mira. Eve and Roarke were attending the opening night of theater when a late scene turns all too real with the stabbing of the arrogant male lead. Eve had many on site witnesses, including herself. As she diligently researches and interviews the cast she discovers that most everyone disliked the victim and there are several with motive. The understudy gains a chance to move into a big position. Several of the ladies have the old motive of ‘the woman scorned.’

A stage hand shows up dead as an apparent suicide leaving a note confessing to the killing. That is all too neat and coincidental for Eve. She pushes, finding unexpected and surprising connections between the victim and others of the cast. Although the clues start to point one way Eve sets up a scene to trap the real killer.

As always, there is great rapport between Eve and Roarke and also between Eve and her team. Peabody is ‘meeting’ with McNab which drives Eve crazy. Feeney is his usual reliable background investigator. I really enjoyed the mystery and the process of unraveling and uncovering the killer.

Audio Notes: Susan Ericksen does a wonderful job of narrating this series. There is lots of energy with good emotion and wonderful voices. I love listening to these stories!

This audio came from my own Audible library.

Audible Book Review: Conspiracy in Death by J.D. Robb

Another intense investigation with Eve and Roarke
Conspiracy in Death: In Death, Book 8

• Written by: J. D. Robb
• Narrated by: Susan Ericksen
• Length: 12 hrs and 27 mins 
• • Series: In Death, Book 8
• Format: Unabridged





Release Date:05-20-08
Publisher: Brilliance Audio

Genre: Mystery, Suspense
My Rating: 4.75 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
With the precision of a surgeon, a serial killer preys on the most vulnerable souls of the world's city streets. The first victim: a sidewalk sleeper, found dead in New York City. No bruises, no signs of struggle. Just a laser-perfect, fist-sized hole where his heart had once been. Lieutenant Eve Dallas is assigned to investigate. But in the heat of a cat-and-mouse game with the killer, Dallas' job is suddenly on the line. Now her hands are tied...between a struggle for justice - and a fight for her career.

Crack another case with Eve Dallas.
©2007 J. D. Robb; (P)2007 Brilliance Audio

Review:
Eve Dallas faces a skilled, clearly arrogant surgeon in this eighth installment. Someone is killing the homeless and unwanted in society - those whom some police consider not worth much effort in investigation. The deaths are done with laser-perfect precision removing organs which would seem to be damaged. Since the organs have no worth on a black market what could be the purpose?

Eve finds at the first scene a street officer, Bowers, who went to Academy with Eve although Eve doesn’t remember her much. But Bowers remembers Eve and is extremely bitter at Eve’s successful career. Bowers is about to cause major trouble for Eve accusing her of a wide range of inappropriate behavior including bigotry, abuse and sleeping her way to the top. Eve doesn’t care about Bowers’ insubordinate, bad attitude except to the extent it obstructs Eve’s investigation because it is clear that Bowers could care less about the homeless and prostitute victims.

Eve is putting unappreciated pressure on the creme of the surgical community and slowly uncovering a history of like crimes that begin to give her clues to a motive. Unfortunately, just as she is getting closer to the killer, Eve is devastated when Bowers’ distracting reports lead to a suspension for the possible murder of Bowers! Taking away her badge is equal to taking away the identity that Eve managed to create for herself.

It takes support, both technical and emotional, from Roarke to see Eve through this trouble and help her solve the medical crime. As always there is plenty of action, could rapport with Eve’s team and wonderful personal interaction with Roarke.

Audio notes: Susan Ericksen does a fabulous job with this series. She makes a good mystery even better with exceptional emotional intensity and personality to the voices. I really enjoy listening to this series!

I picked this from my own Audible Library.

Audible Book #Review and Cassette Giveaway: Loyalty in Death by J.D. Robb

This is another exciting mystery for Lieutenant Eve Dallas.

Loyalty in Death: In Death, Book 9
UNABRIDGED
    By J. D. Robb
    Narrated By Susan Ericksen
        Series: In Death, Book 9


LENGTH  12 hrs and 15 mins
RELEASE DATE  05-20-08
PUBLISHER  Brilliance Audio
Amazon Link

Genre: Crime Thriller, Futuristic
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
Eve Dallas returns to face her most ingenious foe - a "secret admirer" who taunts her with letters...and kills without mercy.
An unknown bomber is stalking New York City. He is sending Eve Dallas taunting letters promising to wreak mass terror and destruction among the "corrupt masses". And when his cruel web of deceit and destruction threatens those she cares for most, Eve fights back. It's her city...it's her job...and it's hitting too close to home. Now, in a race against a ticking clock, Eve must make the pieces fit - before the city falls.
Crack another case with Eve Dallas.
©2007 J. D. Robb; (P)2007 Brilliance Audio

Review:
Once again Eve is faced with new murders and threats to solve. Eve is investigating a bizarre killing by a jealous lover. Although the murderer acknowledges the rage of passion, not all the facts add up. However that case is soon overshadowed when Eve begins to receive taunting messages from a bomber group threatening to take down famous spots in New York, if not all of New York. The group calls themselves “Cassandra” and they want to eliminate the corrupt government. They claim “We are loyal...” but they are not loyal to the innocent lives they ruthlessly kill.

Roarke owns many of the famous locations in New York and he gets a threat too as part of the “capitalist corruption” that must be eliminated. The first building targeted is a vacant warehouse where Eve escapes with only minor injuries. Roarke isn’t going to stand by and let Eve face these threats alone. Not only because the properties being threatened may belong to him but, more importantly, because he is scared for Eve’s safety. Eve does her usual bold dashing into the fray with Roarke right behind her.

Eve’s assistant, Peabody, gets side tracked when her younger brother, Zeke, comes to town. Zeke is attracted to an older woman he met in Arizona even though he knows he should stay away from her. She engaged him to do work in New York and, coincidentally–or perhaps not–the woman’s husband is the brother of the bizarre murder victim. Ultimately Zeke’s involvement and another death give Eve a new direction for the bomber investigation.

Peabody is training nicely until she becomes distracted by a sudden, sizzling attraction between her and McNab, the nerdy tech expert on Eve’s team. Peabody is a strong, humorous character and adds more interest to these stories.

As always, I enjoyed the mystery and the interaction between the characters. The sexual tension between Eve and Roarke is romantic and steamy. There is some discord that fits with their strong personalities. Eve is still trying to understand how she ended up married to this gorgeous, wealthy man with the high tech toys that reach to places where normal law enforcement channels may not go. There was a bit of head hopping where all of a sudden the thoughts/POV would be Peabody’s or McNab’s instead of Eve’s. This was a little distracting in the audio version.

Audio Notes: The narrator, Susan Ericksen, does an amazing job on the character voices–even the computer and the creepy messages! She delivers each voice with an appropriate accent and personality features.  This adds to my enjoyment of the series.

I was disappointed by the use of the “F” word more liberally than I liked. This seemed more noticeable in the first half of the book. Still, the overall story package is engaging and good reading entertainment.

I grabbed this from my Audible Library.

I still need to update my button to make this a "Challenge" but no year - however long it takes since the series is over 36 books now. :-) And it looks like I jumped Conspiracy in Death, Book 8. I don't see it in my read lists so I'll have to go back a book.

I thought I had  print copy but I found I have an Audio Cassette Copy of the book
ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for a used Tape Cassette AudioBook Copy:

 ENTRY FORM HERE

For 3 Extra Bonus entries Visit the author's website and tell me something you find of interest.

* This contest is open US or Canada entries.
* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on May 17, 2012.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
WINNERS WILL BE ANNOUNCED on May 18, 2012.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

Book Review: Midnight in Death by J.D. Robb

You'll find quick crime thrills in this short story from the "In Death" series.
Midnight in Death
by J.D. Robb 

• File Size: 381 KB
• Print Length: 96 pages
• Publisher: Berkley (September 27, 2005)
• Sold by: Penguin Publishing
• Language: English
• ASIN: B000OZ0NW6

Genre: Crime Thriller
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Book Description
Release Date: September 27, 2005 | Series: In Death
The number-one New York Times bestselling In Death series explodes with intrigue, passion, and suspense.  Now, Nora Roberts, writing as J.D. Robb, propels you into the darkest night of Lieutenant Eve Dallas's life—when a killer comes to call...
Eve's name has made a Christmas list, but it's not for being naughty or nice.  It's for putting a serial killer behind bars.  Now the escaped madman has her in his sights.  With her husband, Roarke, at her side, Eve must stop the man from exacting his bloody vengeance—or die trying...

Review:
This is book 7.5 of the “In Death” series featuring futuristic NY detective, Eve Dallas, and her hunky, master financial wizard, husband, Roarke.

Eve and Roarke are planning on celebrating their first Christmas and New Year’s holidays as a married couple. Considering that they both had troubled childhoods they are hoping to set new traditions now that they have found love together.  Unfortunately their plans are interrupted by a sadistic killer, from Eve’s past.  The Christmas eve call brings Dallas to the huge Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center where a local judge hangs naked with a message carved on his chest. The killer, David Palmer, has escaped from prison and has left a list of targets he plans to capture and torture to death, including Eve herself. 

Eve calls in her usual support team: Peabody, Feeney and McNab. This is a short story but has the usual high intensity team police procedures, crime suspense and good, if limited, character interaction of the full novels. The investigation is fast and furious as victims are snatched in spite of police protection. Eve’s friend and psychologist, Dr. Mira, is also on the list too so Eve has extra incentive to stop the killer before he gets his hands on anyone else.  In between the crime scenes and trying to puzzle out the killer’s location and next moves there are enjoyable dialogue and romance scenes for Eve and Roarke.

I know the result was inevitable but I was a little disappointed that the very clever killer, who could get around so many police security measures, is brought down rather easily at the end. Otherwise this short story has all of the wonderful features I enjoy in this series and I am ready to pick up book 8, Conspiracy in Death, for the next ‘Dallas’ adrenaline hit. If you like crime thrillers and you haven’t tried this series yet I highly recommend it. This one is okay as a stand alone but you’ll enjoy the characters more if you start from the beginning.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Opening paragraph:

   Murder respects no traditions. It ignores sentiment. It takes no holidays.

I do love this series and had to get some of it in before the year flew by! This is from my own TBR Kindle library.

What was I thinking when I limited my challenge to two years for this series (now up to 35 not including the 8 shorts)? I will be updating my button to make it a Challenge but no year - however long it takes. :-)

2012 Challenges - Post Five (15 - 19 ) - Mystery Related

Fifteen, Sixteen and Seventeen, Mysteries and Cozies - Completed
Nineteen (Criminal Plots) and Twenty (In Death)

All of these challenges involve mysteries so I have grouped them together.  I was looking for the Suspense Challenge where you have to pick a book from various themes of suspense like legal, cozy, serial, detective, etc. If anyone has seen that challenge please let me know as I'd like to sign up for that too. :-)
FIFTEEN:  Mystery & Suspense

Hosted by Book Chick City

I will do Twelve
(This list does not include Romantic Suspense.)

01. Deeper Water by Robert Whitlow; Christian Mystery; my rating 4.75.

02. The Whisperer by Donato Carrisi; Psychological Thriller; my rating 4.5

03. Bleed For Me by Michael Robotham; Crime Fiction; my rating 4.25.

04  Lethal Legacy by Carol Ann Erhardt; a little mystery, a little romance; my rating 4.0.

05. Illusion by Frank Peretti; Paranormal, Christian Fiction; my rating 4.5.

06. Desperate Housedogs by Sparkle Abbey; Mystery; my rating 4.0.

07. Get Fluffy by Sparkle Abbey; Mystery; my rating 3.75.

08. Web of Evil by J.A. Jance; Mystery, Thriller; my rating 3.5.

09. Wired Kingdom by Rick Chesler; Thriller; my rating 4.25. 

10. Her Royal Spyness by Rhys Bowen; Mystery (Historical); my rating 4.25.

11. Whisper II: The Books by Terry Rich Hartley; Psychological Thriller; my rating 4.25.

12. Forgive Me Alex by Lane Diamond; Psychological suspense thriller; my rating 4.5.
13. Dark Side of Valor by Alicia Singleton; Christian Suspense; my rating 4.75.
14. Tidewater Inn (The Hope Beach Series) by Colleen Coble; Christian Mystery Romance; my rating 4.5.


SIXTEEN: Cozy Mystery

Hosted by Debbie's Book Bag!

What's a cozy you ask?
A cozy mystery generally follows a few guidelines:
1) It is clean, no language, very little if any sexual situations, no gore.
2.) Cozies are lighter in nature than a mainstream mystery or thriller. (Readers who loved Nancy Drew and Trixie Belden as young readers will love cozies!)
3.) Cozies usually have a female protagonist but not always (a few are male), who has another day job.
4.) Cozies are about amateur sleuths, not professionals.
5.) Cozies generally have a small town setting but that's not always the case.

Sign-Ups for this challenge will run from December 4, 2011 to February 4, 2012.
I am choosing:  Level 2 Gumshoe: 4 to 6 Cozy Mysteries

SEVENTEEN: Cruisin' thru the Cozies

Hosted by Socrates' Book Reviews

To find out exactly what a cozy mystery is, check out Cozy-Mystery.com. This site is dedicated to cozy mysteries and does a great job of defining them as well as giving a list of cozy mysteries.
I choose Level 1 - Snoop - Read at least 6 books

For Sixteen and Seventeen:

01. Lethal Legacy by Carol Ann Erhardt; a little mystery, a little romance; my rating 4.0.

02. Desperate Housedogs by Sparkle Abbey; Mystery; my rating 4.0.

03. Get Fluffy by Sparkle Abbey; Mystery; my rating 3.75.

04. Nipped in the Bud by Susan Sleeman; Cozy Mystery, Christian; my rating 4.25.

05. A Fistful of Collars by Spenser Quinn; Cozy Mystery; my rating 4.0.

06. Everybody Loved Roger Harden by Cecil Murphey; Cozy Mystery, Christian Fiction; my rating 4.0.

07. A Brew to a Kill: A Coffeehouse Mystery by Cleo Coyle; Cozy Mystery; rating 4.5.

EIGHTEEN:  Criminal Plots II

Hosted by JensBookThoughts

This year's Rules of the Road:

You'll be reading six books between January 1, 2012, and December 31, 2012. One book should be read that fits into each of the following categories:

1. Novel with a weapon in the title (examples: A Night of Long Knives, A Nail Through the Heart, Sharp Objects, The Rope, Lay Down my Sword and Shield) NO

2. Book published at least 10 years ago - this should be an easy one, time to pull out those backlists (examples: Goodnight Irene, The Black Echo, Indemnity Only)  NO

3. Book written by an author from the state/provinence/etc. where you live. (I live in Ohio, so examples for me would be Carla Buckley, Les Roberts, Craig McDonald) No One Left to Tell by Karen Rose; Romantic Suspense; my rating 4.75

4. Book written by an author using a pen name (i.e., Spencer Quinn, Ross Macdonald, Ariana Franklin, Noah Boyd, Juliett Blackwell, Lisa Black)  Desperate Housedogs by Sparkle Abbey; Mystery; my rating 4.0.

5. Crime novel whose protagonist is the opposite gender of the author (i.e., Demolition Angel, Bury Your Dead, Calumet City)   Deeper Water by Robert Whitlow; Christian Mystery; my rating 4.75.

6. A stand-alone novel written by an author who writes at least one series (i.e., El Gavilan (Craig McDonald), Long Gone (Alafair Burke), The Lock Artist (Steve Hamilton), Envy the Night (Michael Koryta), The Most Dangerous Thing (Laura Lippman)) Illusion by Frank Peretti; Paranormal, Christian Fiction; my rating 4.5.

NINETEEN:  In Death Series

Hosted by The Happily Ever After

This challenge calls for reading one IN DEATH book each month.  Since I have been reading these books I'm glad to do this!

I'll be starting the year with book:
7.5. "Midnight in Death" (in the Silent Night anthology or the Three in Death anthology)
 Midnight in Death by J.D. Robb; Crime Thriller; my rating 4.0.                

Audible Book Review: Vengeance in Death by J.D. Robb

My favorite "In Death" listen so far!

Vengeance in Death: In Death, Book 6 

• UNABRIDGED
• by J. D. Robb
• Narrated by Susan Ericksen

     Genre: Crime Thriller
     My rating: 4.75 of 5.0

Product Description:
He is an expert with the latest technology...a madman with the mind of a genius and the heart of a killer. He quietly stalks his prey. Then he haunts the police with cryptic riddles about the crimes he is about to commit - always solved moments too late to save the victims' lives.
Police lieutenant Eve Dallas found the first victim butchered in his own home. The second lost his life in a vacant luxury apartment. The two men had little in common. Both suffered unspeakable torture before their deaths. And both had ties to an ugly secret of 10 years past - a secret shared by none other than Eve's new husband, Roarke.

Review: 

The serial killer in this book is a brutal, twisted religious fanatic who sees himself as an instrument of God’s righteous vengeance. He is taunting Eve with clues that have her racing to the crime scenes only to arrive moments after the death of the victims.  It is soon clear that the killer is purposefully playing Eve and plans to include Roarke and Eve as ultimate victims in his plan of revenge.

I have always been a bit put off by the antagonism between Eve and Roarke’s friend/man servant, Sommerset.  I really think they should be getting/ trying to get along better since they both have such strong connection and love for Roarke. This story brings their animosity  to a head as the killer twists the clues and events to point to Sommerset.  And there is cause for Sommerset to become the primary suspect when the connection of the victims to Raorke’s and Sommerset’s past lives is revealed to Eve.  Even though Eve is trying to do her job and trying to prove Sommerset’s innocence, Sommerset is not particularly cooperative.

This book is full of the great dialogue I enjoy between the characters.  There is great sensual heat and growing emotional attachment between Eve and Roarke.  There is growing comraderie too between Eve and Peabody. More and more of Peabody’s quirky character is being revealed.

I love how the emotions are “shown” by action.  I can clearly visualize Eve’s anger through this phrase: she...“closed her mouth, teeth first.” The narrator, Susan Ericksen, does a suburb job with the accents, including Eve’s crisp tough cop persona, Peabody’s nasally New York, Sommerset’s uptight, prissy butler tone, Roarke’s cheerful and passionate Irish, Dr. Mira’s fresh and professional female, and various other, particularly Irish, accents of the characters in this story.  Even more impressive is Ms. Ericksen’s fine performance of the emotional action.  She nails the expressions of trembling fear, snarling disapproval, chuckling warmth, frustrated weariness and twisted psychotic venom - just to identify a few.  

One apt quote I jotted down from this Audible was Eve’s summary of the killer’s twisted religious vengeful purpose:
“And the seeds of his faith were sown in blood, rooted in vengeance and bloomed in death.”

I thought this was the best of the series so far. I look forward to listening to book 7, Holiday in Death.
This book was from my own Audible TBR list. Check the review before this one for a chance to win a used copy of Book 5, Ceremony in Death.

This series consists of 33 full length novels plus a few Novellas and a few in anthologies.  If anyone wants to join this challenge let me know and I will set up a linky or we can just share reading along.

Audible Book Review and Print Giveaway: Ceremony in Death by J.D. Robb

This is another suspenseful investigation with the wonderful narration that makes this series click for me.

Ceremony in Death: In Death, Book 5

• UNABRIDGED
• by J. D. Robb
• Narrated by Susan Ericksen

Genre: Thriller Suspense
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Product Description
Conducting a top secret investigation into the death of a fellow police officer has Lieutenant Eve Dallas treading on dangerous ground. She must put professional ethics before personal loyalties. But when a dead body is placed outside her home, Eve takes the warning personally. With her husband, Roarke, watching her every move, Eve is drawn into the most dangerous case of her career. Every step she takes makes her question her own sense of right and wrong - and brings her closer to a confrontation with humanity's most seductive form of evil.

Review:  In this fifth installment Eve is intent on investigating the death of a fellow officer. Eve doesn't believe the rumors of corruption and she will have to push to find the evidence of murder in the death that some would pass off as a suicide. Her superiors are only giving her limited time and resources to check out her hunches. There is more strain as she is looking into the death behind the back of her former partner and good friend, Captain Feeney.

The investigation reveals that the officer’s granddaughter was involved with a group of Wiccan. The investigation becomes more intense when the young girl turns up dead and the body of an associated boy is dumped at Eve and Roarke’s gate. The further trail of death leads to a Satanic cult.

Officer Peabody continues to build in character as Eve’s sharp and eager to learn assistant. She is able to share some knowledge of the Wiccan practices. But it is the dark rituals and ceremonies that are dragging Eve into danger, with Roarke butting in of course.

The narrator does a good job with pacing, helping to keep the suspense building.  I wasn’t enthralled with the witchcraft issues but they made for a an interesting, sinister plotline. As usual the dialogue is sharp and an enjoyable aspect of the book.  I am really enjoying the series. Check out the next review of Vengeance in Death which has more detail on my feelings about the emotions and narration.

This series consists of 33 full length novels plus a few Novellas and a few in anthologies.  I am moving on to book 7 now.  If anyone wants to join this challenge let me know and I will set up a linky. or we can just share reading along together.

I listened to the Audible version from my TBR but once again I set aside my used copy of the book to share. :-)
TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY FOR THE USED PAPERBACK COPY of Ceremony in Death:
If you have already read this book tell me about it and if you win this giveaway you may pick from the review or ARC books and I'll award this book to another winner.

1.Mandatory entry: I'm not going to make you jog to the author's website each time I read and offer one of these books. So just enter a comment if you are interested and tell me if you have read any of the series yet.

2. For an extra entry tell me if you have a series you like enough to do as a challenge.

3. For an extra entry, become a follower or tell me if you are already a follower.

4. For two extra entries, blog, facebook, tweet (any of those networks!) about this giveaway and tell me where you did.

(Five total entries possible.)
It is not necessary to use separate entries unless you want them in different chronological order.

* This contest is open to US and Canada only. (So sorry this can't be international. The book is available at Book Depository though.)
* No P.O. Boxes Please - for shipping reasons.
* This contest will close 10:00 PM (Central) on November 4, 2011.
The WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED on November 5. 
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

Audible Book Review; Print Giveaway: Rapture in Death by J. D. Robb

Another fast paced listen!

Rapture in Death: In Death, Book 4

• UNABRIDGED
• by J. D. Robb
• Narrated by Susan Ericksen

Genre: Crime Thriller
My Rating:  4.75 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary:
They died with smiles on their faces. Three apparent suicides: a brilliant engineer, an infamous lawyer, and a controversial politician. Three strangers with nothing in common - and no obvious reasons for killing themselves. Police lieutenant Eve Dallas found the deaths suspicious. And her instincts paid off when autopsies revealed small burns on the brains of the victims. Was it a genetic abnormality or a high-tech method of murder?

Eve's investigation turned to the provocative world of virtual reality games - where the same techniques used to create joy and desire could also prompt the mind to become the weapon of its own destruction.

Crack another case with Eve Dallas.

Review: This is the fourth story in this great series.
Eve and Rourke are finishing up their honeymoon when they are disrupted by an apparent suicide of one of the employees. There is no reason for the young man to kill himself and the death scene is odd with the man hanging naked with a smile on his face.

Soon Eve is called to another death scene which again appears to be a suicide with the victim, a brutal defense attorney, naked and smiling.  But neither the man’s lover nor Eve believe he would kill himself.

Next Eve is pulled in to talk down a high profile journalist who is threatening to jump off a building ledge.  The naked woman is happily raving and almost takes Eve with her. Eve learns of another death of a controversial politician and her persistence, and a bit of stretching the rules, helps to find evidence of a burn spot on the brains of three of the victims. Now Eve is even more convinced that something, or someone, is triggering these deaths.

While Eve struggles with the investigations, her good friend Mavis is cutting a song demo. The music producer is very eager to get support from Eve and Roarke. They don’t realize at first that they have some intensely wild behavior each time they listen to the demo music. But an uncontrollable incident makes Eve suspect that the bizarre deaths are being instigated by music and possibly a new virtual reality headset. Although Eve has a suspect, he doesn’t fit all the profiles and they are having trouble linking him to the deaths.

There is plenty of fast paced momentum in the mystery with clues and misdirection as to the culprit(s). The personalities and interactions of the characters is wonderfully human and engaging.  Even though Mavis might drive you crazy she is an eccentric change of pace in the characters. I enjoy Peabody’s (Eve’s new officer assistant) directness and wry wit and Feeney’s (Eve’s former partner) dependable support and talents that complement Eve’s efforts.

The narrator does a fine job with all the accents and the high energy and pace of the book. I listened to it in two days!

Three word description: Intense, intriguing, “mag” (as Mavis would say, which I think means magnificent!)

This series consists of 33 full length novels plus a few Novellas and a few in anthologies.  I will be starting book 5 very soon and I read one out of sequence last year. If anyone wants to join this challenge let me know and I will set up a linky.

I listened to the Audible version but I had a used copy of the book.

TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY FOR THE USED PAPERBACK COPY of Rapture in Death:
If you have already read this book tell me about it and if you win this giveaway you may pick from the review or ARC books and I'll award this book to another winner.


1.Mandatory entry: Visit the author's website and tell me the title of another of the books or the full name of one of the characters.
Please leave your e-mail!

2. For an extra entry tell me if you have a series you like enough to do as a challenge.

3. For an extra entry, become a follower or tell me if you are already a follower.

4. For two extra entries, blog, facebook, tweet (any of those networks!) about this giveaway and tell me where you did.

(Five total entries possible.)
It is not necessary to use separate entries unless you want them in different chronological order.

* This contest is open to US and Canada only. (So sorry this can't be international. The book is available at Book Depository though.)
* No P.O. Boxes Please - for shipping reasons.
* This contest will close 10:00 PM (Central) on June 24, 2011.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.

Book Review Audible; Print Giveaway: Glory in Death by J. D. Robb

This is an entertaining mystery series with good strong characters.

Glory in Death (In Death #2) by J.D. Robb.

Glory in Death: In Death, Book 2

• UNABRIDGED
• by J. D. Robb
• Narrated by Susan Ericksen
• Price:$15.95
  Sale Price:$9.23

    Genre:  Mystery, Romantic Suspense
      My Rating:  4.5 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary:
In a time when technology can reveal the darkest of secrets, there's only one place to hide a crime of passion - in the heart.

The first victim was found lying on a sidewalk in the rain. The second was murdered in her own apartment building. Police lieutenant Eve Dallas had no problem finding connections between the two crimes. Both victims were beautiful and highly successful women. Their glamorous lives and loves were the talk of the city. And their intimate relations with men of great power and wealth provided Eve with a long list of suspects - including her own lover, Roarke.

    As a woman, Eve was compelled to trust the man who shared her bed. But as a cop, it was her job to follow every lead... to investigate every scandalous rumor... to explore every secret passion, no matter how dark, or how dangerous.

Review:  Action heats up between Lt. Eve Dallas and Roarke.
This is the second book of the “in death” series set in New York in a future with hi tech investigative tools.  Eve Dallas is a gutsy police detective who has a knack for walking through the crime scene and visualizing the crime. She is relentless on tracking evidence.

Eve has to do her job and that includes documenting that her powerful lover, Roarke, is not a viable suspect. Roarke is pushing for a commitment but Eve has a painful and abusive past that makes it difficult for her to commit to anyone and she only wants to trust and depend on herself.  Will Eve be able to keep Roarke if she can’t offer more in the relationship?

While pursing the murderer Eve has to fend off obnoxious reporter C.J. Morse.  Eve makes arrangements to work with female investigative reporter Nadine. With the help of the police profiler, Eve determines that the killer is striking down successful and visibly powerful women. Eve realizes that both her friend, Nadine, and Eve herself could be targets. Eve decides to heat up the publicity setting herself up as bait.

I really enjoyed the mystery story as well as the intense romance between Eve and Roarke. The narrator does a wonderful job with the accents. I am anxious to get the next book and expect it will be within the next week or so.

I listened to the Audible version but I had a used copy of the book
TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY FOR THE USED PAPERBACK COPY:

1.Mandatory entry: Visit the author's website and tell me something of interest you find there.
Please leave your e-mail!

2.   For an extra entry tell me if you have read this author or this series and what you think about it.  If you have already read this book tell me about it and if you win this giveaway you may pick from the review or ARC books and I'll award this book to another winner.

3. For an extra entry, become a follower or tell me if you are already a follower.

4. For two extra entries, blog, facebook, tweet (any of those networks!) about this giveaway and tell me where you did.

(Five total entries possible.)
It is not necessary to use separate entries unless you want them in different chronological order.

* This contest is open to US and Canada only. (So sorry this can't be international. The book is available at Book Depository though.)
* No P.O. Boxes Please - for shipping reasons.
* This contest will close 10:00 PM (Central) on May 6, 2011.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.