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Recommend this book:
Feathers
Case Thirteen
Blair C Howard
2022 Gold Medal
322 Pages
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Fiction - Crime
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Feathers: Case Thirteen is a work of fiction in the mystery, sleuthing, and action/adventure subgenres. It is intended for the general reading audience from mature teens upward and was penned by author Blair Howard. Continuing the hugely successful Lt. Kate Gazzara Murder Files, this new and exciting case sees Kate meet the grisly reality of young women who have all been killed in violent, throat-slitting circumstances. But what else might they have in common? There are only feathers to lead Kate forward into a mysterious and dark network of sinister connections, and all she can hope is that the tough, no-nonsense approach she’s built up over the years will be enough to help her survive the horrible truth.
It is evident in every page penned by author Blair Howard that this is a writer who knows how to craft procedural mysteries to a tee. The fine art of clue placement, pace, and exposition is always in balance, and just when readers think there’s nothing more to discover about a particular element of the case, Kate finds something that turns the plot on its head even more. I also really enjoyed the concise and confident control Howard takes of the narrative, cutting to the quick with relevant details, but also giving breathing room where it’s due for the deeper moments that need to sink in for all their chilling, suspense-building glory. Kate’s emotional arc was also interesting and far from generic, making Feathers a procedural mystery drama that fans of the existing series and newcomers alike will not want to miss.
Feathers: Case Thirteen is a work of fiction in the mystery, sleuthing, and action/adventure subgenres. It is intended for the general reading audience from mature teens upward and was penned by author Blair Howard. Continuing the hugely successful Lt. Kate Gazzara Murder Files, this new and exciting case sees Kate meet the grisly reality of young women who have all been killed in violent, throat-slitting circumstances. But what else might they have in common? There are only feathers to lead Kate forward into a mysterious and dark network of sinister connections, and all she can hope is that the tough, no-nonsense approach she’s built up over the years will be enough to help her survive the horrible truth.
It is evident in every page penned by author Blair Howard that this is a writer who knows how to craft procedural mysteries to a tee. The fine art of clue placement, pace, and exposition is always in balance, and just when readers think there’s nothing more to discover about a particular element of the case, Kate finds something that turns the plot on its head even more. I also really enjoyed the concise and confident control Howard takes of the narrative, cutting to the quick with relevant details, but also giving breathing room where it’s due for the deeper moments that need to sink in for all their chilling, suspense-building glory. Kate’s emotional arc was also interesting and far from generic, making Feathers a procedural mystery drama that fans of the existing series and newcomers alike will not want to miss.
Recommend this book:
The Other Side Of Good
E. A. Coe
2022 Silver Medal
356 Pages
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Fiction - Crime
Reviewed by Natalie Soine for Readers' Favorite
The Other Side of Good by E. A. Coe is a thrilling, suspenseful novel set in Cincinnati. Alleged drug dealer Theo Jackson offers to donate $5M for a new youth center and Officer Denton Jones, commander of the Cincinnati Central Business District police patrol, is assigned by Colonel Jack Fitzpatrick, chief of police, to negotiate the terms. Denton’s assignment leads him to believe that Jackson is protected by a dishonest bureaucrat. Theo uncovers evidence of an international criminal organization facilitating human trafficking in the city involving Chinese criminal Sun Yi who works for an organization called Santu. Together a pastor and city officials, Officer Denton and Theo hatch a plan to shut down Santu. In the process, the team is faced with the decision to do what is right or do what is easy, but will they make the right choices between good and bad when they are faced with the gray area in between?
Author E. A. Coe has certainly created a masterpiece. The Other Side of Good is filled with action, drama, and excitement. The story gives the reader a new perspective on what is right or wrong, good or bad. Coe’s writing style is fast-paced and smooth flowing from beginning to end. Theo and Denton’s relationship is intriguing and unusual, but it works for both the men and the story surrounding them. The numerous characters are all well-defined including law enforcement officials, criminals, and their associates. I mostly enjoyed the twists, turns, and surprises that Coe includes in this web of criminal activities and law enforcement. The Other Side of Good is highly recommended to all adults and is deserving of a place on any bookshelf.
The Other Side of Good by E. A. Coe is a thrilling, suspenseful novel set in Cincinnati. Alleged drug dealer Theo Jackson offers to donate $5M for a new youth center and Officer Denton Jones, commander of the Cincinnati Central Business District police patrol, is assigned by Colonel Jack Fitzpatrick, chief of police, to negotiate the terms. Denton’s assignment leads him to believe that Jackson is protected by a dishonest bureaucrat. Theo uncovers evidence of an international criminal organization facilitating human trafficking in the city involving Chinese criminal Sun Yi who works for an organization called Santu. Together a pastor and city officials, Officer Denton and Theo hatch a plan to shut down Santu. In the process, the team is faced with the decision to do what is right or do what is easy, but will they make the right choices between good and bad when they are faced with the gray area in between?
Author E. A. Coe has certainly created a masterpiece. The Other Side of Good is filled with action, drama, and excitement. The story gives the reader a new perspective on what is right or wrong, good or bad. Coe’s writing style is fast-paced and smooth flowing from beginning to end. Theo and Denton’s relationship is intriguing and unusual, but it works for both the men and the story surrounding them. The numerous characters are all well-defined including law enforcement officials, criminals, and their associates. I mostly enjoyed the twists, turns, and surprises that Coe includes in this web of criminal activities and law enforcement. The Other Side of Good is highly recommended to all adults and is deserving of a place on any bookshelf.
Recommend this book:
The Big Tilt
Peter O'Keefe Book 2
Dan Flanigan
2022 Bronze Medal
308 Pages
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Fiction - Crime
Reviewed by Anne-Marie Reynolds for Readers' Favorite
The Big Tilt by Dan Flanigan is the second book in the Peter O’Keefe series. Peter O’Keefe has had some close shaves in his life, not least the Vietnam War and a showdown with a crime boss called Mr. Canada in the Arizona desert. A year on from that, O’Keefe finds himself in deep trouble in his own hometown, when an old school crush is murdered. But something doesn’t seem right. A friend of O’Keefe’s, Mike Harrigan, is in serious trouble, accused of things he didn’t do and O’Keefe now has a price on his head. Going deep into the criminal underworld, O’Keefe begins to uncover things that some people would prefer stayed hidden and his life is suddenly in the balance. Can he uncover the truth in time or will he become another statistic?
The Big Tilt (Peter O’Keefe Book 2) by Dan Flanigan is a thrilling read. I did find the beginning a little confusing but I suspect that’s because I haven’t read the first book – this is one of those series where the books need to be read in order. There is more than one story here, at least three different ones, but they are woven together with all becoming clear at the end. It is written well, very clear and easy-to-understand language (no jargon, which is a bonus), and a great plot, albeit a little complex at times. There is plenty of action and the author’s legal background really shone through at times. A gripping tale, this has some great characters, believable, real people who grow throughout the story. With plenty of action, this is one story you won’t want to put down.
The Big Tilt by Dan Flanigan is the second book in the Peter O’Keefe series. Peter O’Keefe has had some close shaves in his life, not least the Vietnam War and a showdown with a crime boss called Mr. Canada in the Arizona desert. A year on from that, O’Keefe finds himself in deep trouble in his own hometown, when an old school crush is murdered. But something doesn’t seem right. A friend of O’Keefe’s, Mike Harrigan, is in serious trouble, accused of things he didn’t do and O’Keefe now has a price on his head. Going deep into the criminal underworld, O’Keefe begins to uncover things that some people would prefer stayed hidden and his life is suddenly in the balance. Can he uncover the truth in time or will he become another statistic?
The Big Tilt (Peter O’Keefe Book 2) by Dan Flanigan is a thrilling read. I did find the beginning a little confusing but I suspect that’s because I haven’t read the first book – this is one of those series where the books need to be read in order. There is more than one story here, at least three different ones, but they are woven together with all becoming clear at the end. It is written well, very clear and easy-to-understand language (no jargon, which is a bonus), and a great plot, albeit a little complex at times. There is plenty of action and the author’s legal background really shone through at times. A gripping tale, this has some great characters, believable, real people who grow throughout the story. With plenty of action, this is one story you won’t want to put down.
Recommend this book:
Blaze In, Blaze Out
Joseph Lewis
2022 Honorable Mention
321 Pages
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Fiction - Crime
Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
Blaze In, Blaze Out is an action-packed thriller written by Joseph Lewis. A task force involving the ATF and the FBI worked together alongside Sergeant Detective Pat O'Connor and his partner Detective Paul Eilselmann to bring down the Ukrainian crime lord Dmitry Andruko. While Eilselmann plans to enjoy a bit of family time, O'Connor embarks on a fishing trip with fellow police officer Jamie Graff and four foster brothers named Brian, Brett, George, and Michael Two Feathers. However, seeking vengeance, Andruko hires two elite assassins to eliminate O'Connor and Eilselmann. One of them goes after Eiselmann, leading to a cop being hospitalized, while the other tracks O'Connor and the boys in the wilderness. With the killers leaving a bloody trail in their wake, will the detectives and the kids come out alive?
Filled to the brim with intrigue, action, and suspense, Blaze In, Blaze Out hooks you in from the start and refuses to let go until the end. Author Joseph Lewis infuses the narrative with a sense of tension and dread that will have you biting your nails in trepidation. The plot is completely unpredictable, and you're never quite sure what's going to happen next. The characters have fleshed-out backstories that make them feel grounded and easy to relate to. I found the dynamic between the brothers one of the best aspects of the book, alongside the vividly described action sequences that happen in quick bursts. O'Connor and Eiselmann are genuine good guys you find easy to root for. If you're looking for a well-written action-packed thriller, I recommend Blaze In, Blaze Out.
Blaze In, Blaze Out is an action-packed thriller written by Joseph Lewis. A task force involving the ATF and the FBI worked together alongside Sergeant Detective Pat O'Connor and his partner Detective Paul Eilselmann to bring down the Ukrainian crime lord Dmitry Andruko. While Eilselmann plans to enjoy a bit of family time, O'Connor embarks on a fishing trip with fellow police officer Jamie Graff and four foster brothers named Brian, Brett, George, and Michael Two Feathers. However, seeking vengeance, Andruko hires two elite assassins to eliminate O'Connor and Eilselmann. One of them goes after Eiselmann, leading to a cop being hospitalized, while the other tracks O'Connor and the boys in the wilderness. With the killers leaving a bloody trail in their wake, will the detectives and the kids come out alive?
Filled to the brim with intrigue, action, and suspense, Blaze In, Blaze Out hooks you in from the start and refuses to let go until the end. Author Joseph Lewis infuses the narrative with a sense of tension and dread that will have you biting your nails in trepidation. The plot is completely unpredictable, and you're never quite sure what's going to happen next. The characters have fleshed-out backstories that make them feel grounded and easy to relate to. I found the dynamic between the brothers one of the best aspects of the book, alongside the vividly described action sequences that happen in quick bursts. O'Connor and Eiselmann are genuine good guys you find easy to root for. If you're looking for a well-written action-packed thriller, I recommend Blaze In, Blaze Out.
Recommend this book:
Tell Her
A Lacey James Series Book 3
Chris Patchell
2022 Finalist
226 Pages
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Fiction - Crime
Reviewed by Jennifer Ibiam for Readers' Favorite
Trouble took a ride into the Sweet Home community, Oregon. Jonathan Jones, alias JJ, was at a bar hanging out when Jett Brady and his friends showed up. The group harassed the bartender, Harley Poole, and JJ defended her against his better judgment. Jett Brady was untouchable, as his father was a renowned local politician. However, things went south when Nicole, Jonathan’s girlfriend, found his body riddled with bullets in the home they shared. Detective Lacey James stepped in to investigate the murder, and every witness said JJ was a good man. So who killed him? Jett, a cheating girlfriend, an angry wife, an angry husband, or a blast from the past? Follow Lacey and her team as they find answers in Tell Her by Chris Patchell.
Tell Her: A Lacey James Series Book 3 by Chris Patchell was an enthralling tale of survival, family, grief, failures, successes, and revenge. Everything about this book appealed to me as it would do to lovers of crime thrillers and detective stories. Does karma exist? Could any sin go unpunished no matter the restitution? Tell Her was thought-provoking as I asked questions. This book also featured the struggles faced by career women, especially ones with spouses and kids. Is there such a thing as a work-life balance? Can women do it all? This novel was action-packed and featured a brilliant heroine in Lacey. Amber caught my attention because she was a pillar for Lacey. I also loved the plot, development, and editing. Patchell showed her flair for beautiful storytelling with this captivating book. Please, write more.
Trouble took a ride into the Sweet Home community, Oregon. Jonathan Jones, alias JJ, was at a bar hanging out when Jett Brady and his friends showed up. The group harassed the bartender, Harley Poole, and JJ defended her against his better judgment. Jett Brady was untouchable, as his father was a renowned local politician. However, things went south when Nicole, Jonathan’s girlfriend, found his body riddled with bullets in the home they shared. Detective Lacey James stepped in to investigate the murder, and every witness said JJ was a good man. So who killed him? Jett, a cheating girlfriend, an angry wife, an angry husband, or a blast from the past? Follow Lacey and her team as they find answers in Tell Her by Chris Patchell.
Tell Her: A Lacey James Series Book 3 by Chris Patchell was an enthralling tale of survival, family, grief, failures, successes, and revenge. Everything about this book appealed to me as it would do to lovers of crime thrillers and detective stories. Does karma exist? Could any sin go unpunished no matter the restitution? Tell Her was thought-provoking as I asked questions. This book also featured the struggles faced by career women, especially ones with spouses and kids. Is there such a thing as a work-life balance? Can women do it all? This novel was action-packed and featured a brilliant heroine in Lacey. Amber caught my attention because she was a pillar for Lacey. I also loved the plot, development, and editing. Patchell showed her flair for beautiful storytelling with this captivating book. Please, write more.
Recommend this book:
Body in the Woods
Carlos Jacobi Book 1
Dawn Brookes
2021 Gold Medal
627 Pages
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Fiction - Crime
Reviewed by Christian Sia for Readers' Favorite
Body in the Woods is the first book in the Carlos Jacobi series by Dawn Brookes and a perfect read for fans of crime thrillers. It is supposed to be a quiet Christmas at his sister’s place. At least, that is what private investigator Carlos Jacobi wanted, but everything changes when his ex-police dog discovers a body in the woods. The old man’s widow hires Carlos to investigate in this seemingly peaceful town with dangerous secrets. As he begins his investigation, he runs into someone he hoped he would never see again, and their experience in Afghanistan, characteristic of bad blood, makes it hard for the two to work together. Someone wants him out of the investigation, but when his dog makes another discovery, the conflict escalates. Can Carlos get to the bottom of the mystery?
I love it when an author takes time to develop characters that have depth, and Dawn Brookes does just that. Carlos is not just a strong character with a military background. Exploring his experiences in Afghanistan and the animosity between him and a mate that he runs into adds a deeper layer to the plot, and while this detail builds suspense and deepens character, it helps in moving the plot forward. DCI Terry Masters is a well-written character as well as DS Fiona Cook and many others. The setting is detailed and I enjoyed how descriptive the author is when exploring the features of the natural environment in which the story takes place. Dawn Brookes not only poignantly captures a sense of mystery and raw emotions in a quiet small town, but creates such relatable characters that any reader will want to follow on their journey. Body in the Woods is a bold and haunting story of murder and suspense.
Body in the Woods is the first book in the Carlos Jacobi series by Dawn Brookes and a perfect read for fans of crime thrillers. It is supposed to be a quiet Christmas at his sister’s place. At least, that is what private investigator Carlos Jacobi wanted, but everything changes when his ex-police dog discovers a body in the woods. The old man’s widow hires Carlos to investigate in this seemingly peaceful town with dangerous secrets. As he begins his investigation, he runs into someone he hoped he would never see again, and their experience in Afghanistan, characteristic of bad blood, makes it hard for the two to work together. Someone wants him out of the investigation, but when his dog makes another discovery, the conflict escalates. Can Carlos get to the bottom of the mystery?
I love it when an author takes time to develop characters that have depth, and Dawn Brookes does just that. Carlos is not just a strong character with a military background. Exploring his experiences in Afghanistan and the animosity between him and a mate that he runs into adds a deeper layer to the plot, and while this detail builds suspense and deepens character, it helps in moving the plot forward. DCI Terry Masters is a well-written character as well as DS Fiona Cook and many others. The setting is detailed and I enjoyed how descriptive the author is when exploring the features of the natural environment in which the story takes place. Dawn Brookes not only poignantly captures a sense of mystery and raw emotions in a quiet small town, but creates such relatable characters that any reader will want to follow on their journey. Body in the Woods is a bold and haunting story of murder and suspense.
Recommend this book:
Pieces of Wood
Kenneth James Moore
2021 Silver Medal
562 Pages
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Fiction - Crime
Reviewed by Vincent Dublado for Readers' Favorite
Pieces of Wood by Kenneth James Moore is an intense historical fiction novel that focuses on a real horrifying event that many of us are unaware of. The story is set in 1978. FBI agent Michaelene Westgate and her partner, Steve Donaldson, have been assigned to investigate a series of killings in Chicago. As the death toll of female victims rises, they are about to receive a history lesson in connection to the killings. A former World War 2 veteran recounts how he became a living witness to the Japanese Imperial Army’s orders to decimate the female population of their nation’s enemies. This order didn’t reach the United States as the war ended, but the motivation behind it is still in the hearts and minds of two loyal and fanatic followers of the Rising Sun. Westgate and Donaldson will soon learn that there is more than one killer, and they are trying to re-ignite an old battle plan.
In telling his story, Kenneth James Moore found a way to approach an untold vile scheme that could have been tragic and unimaginable—an idea that he has been able to convey by way of fiction. In this novel, he affirms that good men can triumph over evil. It is a statement that must be demonstrated in the series of grotesque killings or the intent in telling the message loses its meaning. The measure of Moore’s resourcefulness and attention to facts is admirable. The novel is haunting and powerful. It is necessary to have obsessive villains in a history-based novel for the hero to put the pieces of the puzzle together. Pieces of Wood gives you an idea of how a diabolical scheme in World War 2 was supposed to operate by showing and not just telling readers. It brought me to tears. Genocide seems to be an evil that accompanies human history. Read this work for the simple reason that we all need a good sense of the past, and we must never ever forget.
Pieces of Wood by Kenneth James Moore is an intense historical fiction novel that focuses on a real horrifying event that many of us are unaware of. The story is set in 1978. FBI agent Michaelene Westgate and her partner, Steve Donaldson, have been assigned to investigate a series of killings in Chicago. As the death toll of female victims rises, they are about to receive a history lesson in connection to the killings. A former World War 2 veteran recounts how he became a living witness to the Japanese Imperial Army’s orders to decimate the female population of their nation’s enemies. This order didn’t reach the United States as the war ended, but the motivation behind it is still in the hearts and minds of two loyal and fanatic followers of the Rising Sun. Westgate and Donaldson will soon learn that there is more than one killer, and they are trying to re-ignite an old battle plan.
In telling his story, Kenneth James Moore found a way to approach an untold vile scheme that could have been tragic and unimaginable—an idea that he has been able to convey by way of fiction. In this novel, he affirms that good men can triumph over evil. It is a statement that must be demonstrated in the series of grotesque killings or the intent in telling the message loses its meaning. The measure of Moore’s resourcefulness and attention to facts is admirable. The novel is haunting and powerful. It is necessary to have obsessive villains in a history-based novel for the hero to put the pieces of the puzzle together. Pieces of Wood gives you an idea of how a diabolical scheme in World War 2 was supposed to operate by showing and not just telling readers. It brought me to tears. Genocide seems to be an evil that accompanies human history. Read this work for the simple reason that we all need a good sense of the past, and we must never ever forget.
Recommend this book:
The Big Tilt
Peter O'Keefe Book 2
Dan Flanigan
2021 Bronze Medal
308 Pages
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Fiction - Crime
Reviewed by Anne-Marie Reynolds for Readers' Favorite
The Big Tilt by Dan Flanigan is the second book in the Peter O’Keefe series. Peter O’Keefe has had some close shaves in his life, not least the Vietnam War and a showdown with a crime boss called Mr. Canada in the Arizona desert. A year on from that, O’Keefe finds himself in deep trouble in his own hometown, when an old school crush is murdered. But something doesn’t seem right. A friend of O’Keefe’s, Mike Harrigan, is in serious trouble, accused of things he didn’t do and O’Keefe now has a price on his head. Going deep into the criminal underworld, O’Keefe begins to uncover things that some people would prefer stayed hidden and his life is suddenly in the balance. Can he uncover the truth in time or will he become another statistic?
The Big Tilt (Peter O’Keefe Book 2) by Dan Flanigan is a thrilling read. I did find the beginning a little confusing but I suspect that’s because I haven’t read the first book – this is one of those series where the books need to be read in order. There is more than one story here, at least three different ones, but they are woven together with all becoming clear at the end. It is written well, very clear and easy-to-understand language (no jargon, which is a bonus), and a great plot, albeit a little complex at times. There is plenty of action and the author’s legal background really shone through at times. A gripping tale, this has some great characters, believable, real people who grow throughout the story. With plenty of action, this is one story you won’t want to put down.
The Big Tilt by Dan Flanigan is the second book in the Peter O’Keefe series. Peter O’Keefe has had some close shaves in his life, not least the Vietnam War and a showdown with a crime boss called Mr. Canada in the Arizona desert. A year on from that, O’Keefe finds himself in deep trouble in his own hometown, when an old school crush is murdered. But something doesn’t seem right. A friend of O’Keefe’s, Mike Harrigan, is in serious trouble, accused of things he didn’t do and O’Keefe now has a price on his head. Going deep into the criminal underworld, O’Keefe begins to uncover things that some people would prefer stayed hidden and his life is suddenly in the balance. Can he uncover the truth in time or will he become another statistic?
The Big Tilt (Peter O’Keefe Book 2) by Dan Flanigan is a thrilling read. I did find the beginning a little confusing but I suspect that’s because I haven’t read the first book – this is one of those series where the books need to be read in order. There is more than one story here, at least three different ones, but they are woven together with all becoming clear at the end. It is written well, very clear and easy-to-understand language (no jargon, which is a bonus), and a great plot, albeit a little complex at times. There is plenty of action and the author’s legal background really shone through at times. A gripping tale, this has some great characters, believable, real people who grow throughout the story. With plenty of action, this is one story you won’t want to put down.
Recommend this book:
Dormir
Michael Golvach
2021 Finalist
302 Pages
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Fiction - Crime
Reviewed by Lesley Jones for Readers' Favorite
In Dormir by Michael Golvach, a life of combat and brutality has left Private Investigator Payden Beck tired and embittered. He longs for a peaceful future away from law enforcement, so when Police Officer Bill Dooley asks for his help to locate his missing niece, Paydon turns him away. Shortly afterward, the thirteen-year-old niece, Chloe, appears at his door saying she will be dead if he turns her away. Payden discovers that Chloe is witness to the most horrific crime involving the Spanish Mafia, corrupt police officers, and members of her own family. He must bring them to justice before they find Chloe. Payden must use his years of expertise to track his enemies down but will it be enough? When a child's life is at risk, morality and legality sometimes have to be ignored. Meanwhile, the child's grandmother, who is a ghost from Paydon's past, appears which further complicates matters. How much is Payden willing to sacrifice to protect an innocent girl?
Dormir by Michael Golvach is a superb crime thriller that will have you hooked from the first scene. The action and suspense are continuous with amazing plot twists and turns. I found the areas of conflict throughout absolutely masterful; anything could happen and no character was safe. There are many strong sub-plots too that examine family dynamics and human behavior in general. Valerie was a fascinating character who battled between loyalty to her family and her own integrity. Chloe was my favorite character, she was strong, fearless, and very intelligent, willing to face her greatest fears to protect those she cared about. The psychological cat and mouse battles between Payden and his enemies were nail-biting. The dialogue, especially from Payden, was sharp and realistic. I adored the relationship between Payden and Chloe - it developed beautifully and the scene in the hospital was very emotional and hard to read. You will need plenty of tissues for the ending.
In Dormir by Michael Golvach, a life of combat and brutality has left Private Investigator Payden Beck tired and embittered. He longs for a peaceful future away from law enforcement, so when Police Officer Bill Dooley asks for his help to locate his missing niece, Paydon turns him away. Shortly afterward, the thirteen-year-old niece, Chloe, appears at his door saying she will be dead if he turns her away. Payden discovers that Chloe is witness to the most horrific crime involving the Spanish Mafia, corrupt police officers, and members of her own family. He must bring them to justice before they find Chloe. Payden must use his years of expertise to track his enemies down but will it be enough? When a child's life is at risk, morality and legality sometimes have to be ignored. Meanwhile, the child's grandmother, who is a ghost from Paydon's past, appears which further complicates matters. How much is Payden willing to sacrifice to protect an innocent girl?
Dormir by Michael Golvach is a superb crime thriller that will have you hooked from the first scene. The action and suspense are continuous with amazing plot twists and turns. I found the areas of conflict throughout absolutely masterful; anything could happen and no character was safe. There are many strong sub-plots too that examine family dynamics and human behavior in general. Valerie was a fascinating character who battled between loyalty to her family and her own integrity. Chloe was my favorite character, she was strong, fearless, and very intelligent, willing to face her greatest fears to protect those she cared about. The psychological cat and mouse battles between Payden and his enemies were nail-biting. The dialogue, especially from Payden, was sharp and realistic. I adored the relationship between Payden and Chloe - it developed beautifully and the scene in the hospital was very emotional and hard to read. You will need plenty of tissues for the ending.
Recommend this book:
Flowers On Her Grave
Jennifer Chase
2020 Gold Medal
312 Pages
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Fiction - Crime
Reviewed by Lex Allen for Readers' Favorite
Following the tenth wedding anniversary of her aunt and uncle, Detective Katie Scott awakens to learn her aunt has been brutally murdered and her uncle, the Pine Valley Sheriff, is the only suspect. Because of her relationship with her uncle, Katie, the head of Pine Valley’s Sheriff Department’s Cold Case unit, is warned by the acting Sheriff to stay away from the murder investigation. Katie, an Afghanistan war veteran, highly talented detective, and all-round hard-headed woman, is not about to sit idly by while her uncle, the last member of her family, goes to prison for life... or worse. She figures out ways to investigate and comes up with some clues and evidence the assigned investigators missed. But the real coup comes when she digs through her cold cases.
It is rare when I read a book in only two sittings, but had I not fallen asleep on the couch at 4 a.m., I’d have finished Flowers on Her Grave in one sitting, making it one of a kind. Jennifer Chase is a writer extraordinaire. I can’t think of a single part of the writing trade that she could improve on. Her characters are as real as my next-door neighbors, her ability to show rather than tell, exceptional. Chase sets scenes with zero fat; she writes them lean but has everything necessary to give the reader a visual perspective. Throughout the story, there are little details that wouldn’t occur to most authors, but Chase gets them in there. One of these that comes to mind is her use of German language commands for her K9 German Shepard, Cisco. Flowers on Her Grave by Jennifer Chase is a fabulously written, exciting detective story that fans of any fiction genre will love. Character Katie Scott is amazing, and I am determined to go back and read books one and two in this series.
Following the tenth wedding anniversary of her aunt and uncle, Detective Katie Scott awakens to learn her aunt has been brutally murdered and her uncle, the Pine Valley Sheriff, is the only suspect. Because of her relationship with her uncle, Katie, the head of Pine Valley’s Sheriff Department’s Cold Case unit, is warned by the acting Sheriff to stay away from the murder investigation. Katie, an Afghanistan war veteran, highly talented detective, and all-round hard-headed woman, is not about to sit idly by while her uncle, the last member of her family, goes to prison for life... or worse. She figures out ways to investigate and comes up with some clues and evidence the assigned investigators missed. But the real coup comes when she digs through her cold cases.
It is rare when I read a book in only two sittings, but had I not fallen asleep on the couch at 4 a.m., I’d have finished Flowers on Her Grave in one sitting, making it one of a kind. Jennifer Chase is a writer extraordinaire. I can’t think of a single part of the writing trade that she could improve on. Her characters are as real as my next-door neighbors, her ability to show rather than tell, exceptional. Chase sets scenes with zero fat; she writes them lean but has everything necessary to give the reader a visual perspective. Throughout the story, there are little details that wouldn’t occur to most authors, but Chase gets them in there. One of these that comes to mind is her use of German language commands for her K9 German Shepard, Cisco. Flowers on Her Grave by Jennifer Chase is a fabulously written, exciting detective story that fans of any fiction genre will love. Character Katie Scott is amazing, and I am determined to go back and read books one and two in this series.
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