Review: Remember When

Review: Remember WhenRemember When (includes In Death, #17.5) by J.D. Robb, Nora Roberts
Series: In Death #17.5
Published by Berkley on January 15, 2019
Genres: Mystery
Pages: 460
Goodreads
four-half-stars

FINAL DECISION: This is duology that combines a present-and-future story. When read together, it is a clever and engaging blend of contemporary romance (Roberts) and futuristic mystery (Robb). This crossover showcases Nora Roberts’ versatility as an author and provides a link between her two writing personas.

THE STORY: The book is divided into two parts. In the first, set in the present, Laine Tavish, the respectable owner of an antique shop, finds her past catching up with her when her criminal father’s old partner shows up looking for hidden diamonds. She teams up with Max Gannon, an insurance investigator, to solve the mystery and keep herself safe.

The second part, set in Eve Dallas’ future New York, follows the granddaughter of Laine and Max as she becomes entangled in a mystery surrounding the same diamonds. Eve must solve a murder and prevent more deaths while unraveling a decades-old puzzle.

OPINION: REMEMBER WHEN is a unique entry that brilliantly bridges Roberts’ contemporary romance world with her futuristic In Death series. The structure of the book is refreshing and adds an extra layer of intrigue to both stories. The contemporary portion showcases Roberts’ skill in crafting engaging romance with a touch of suspense. Laine and Max’s relationship develops naturally amidst the danger, with their chemistry and banter providing a perfect counterpoint to the tension of the diamond hunt. The transition to the futuristic In Death story works well, and it’s fascinating to see how the consequences of the first story play out in Eve’s time. The In Death portion delivers the usual mix of clever detective work and character moments that I have come to expect.

This book is unique because it ties together both parts of Roberts’ writing identity. Seeing the connections between the two time periods adds depth to both stories and provides longtime readers with a treat. I especially enjoyed how the tone of the books changed — it was almost like two different writers collaborated. The pacing in both stories is well-handled, with each story feeling complete while also being part of a larger whole.

WORTH MENTIONING: Although originally published in this combo format, it has also been divided into its separate parts and sold separately — “Hot Rocks” by Nora Roberts and “Big Jack” by J.D. Robb.

CONNECTED BOOKS: REMEMBER WHEN is a standalone in terms of the contemporary story. The futuristic portion fits into the IN DEATH series but can be read on its own. However, readers familiar with the In Death series will get more out of the character interactions in the second half.

STAR RATING: I give this book 4.5 stars.

four-half-stars

Imitation in Death

Imitation in DeathImitation in Death (In Death, #17) by J.D. Robb
Series: In Death #17
Published by Berkley Books on August 26, 2003
Genres: Mystery
Pages: 342
Goodreads
four-half-stars

FINAL DECISION: This is an interesting entry in the In Death series that balances a very creepy mystery with meaningful character development, especially for Eve and Peabody.

THE STORY: Lieutenant Eve Dallas faces a challenging case when a killer starts imitating infamous serial killers from history. As the body count rises, Eve must delve into the minds of both the current killer and the historical murderers they’re copying. Meanwhile, Eve continues navigating her personal growth and relationships as her past continues to comes back to her.

OPINION: IMITATION IN DEATH delivers a well-crafted mystery while developing the character relationships that make this series so compelling for me. The central case is one that is creepy as the killer imitates famous serial killers. The concept provides a fresh angle that keeps the investigation engaging. Robb handles the darker elements with skill, balancing the grim nature of the crimes with moments of levity and personal interaction. The book, as others in the series, is not unduly graphic despite the killings.

As always, the heart of the book lies in the character development. Eve’s growth continues to be a highlight as she becomes more comfortable with her role not just as a cop but also as a friend, wife, and part of a larger community. Her interactions with Roarke remain a cornerstone of the series, showing their partnership’s strength and individual growth. There is a new twist to Eve’s development as more of her past comes to light.

The secondary characters also get their moments to shine. Peabody’s development as she strives to reach the rank of detective and the various personal tidbits all add depth to the narrative. It’s particularly satisfying to see how the recurring characters continue to evolve, making the series’ world feel increasingly rich and lived-in. What I really love about this series are the characters and their interaction so every book that develops those stories and relationships is of particular interest to me. Here, the development of the relationship between Peabody and Eve is particularly special and I really enjoyed the last 10 percent of the book because of it.

WORTH MENTIONING: This entire series takes place over such a short period of time despite the years over which the books were written. It is sometimes surprising that this book picks up right after the prior ones. Specifically, Eve is enjoying Summerset being gone…until he is not.

CONNECTED BOOKS: IMITATION IN DEATH is the 17th book in the In Death series. While the mystery in this book is standalone, there are continuing and overarching storylines (especially regarding character relationships and development) that continue from book to book. I recommend reading the series in order, although it is not necessary.

STAR RATING: I give this book 4.5 stars.

four-half-stars

Review: The Banned Books Club

Review: The Banned Books ClubThe Banned Books Club by Brenda Novak
Published by MIRA Genres: Contemporary
Goodreads
three-stars

FINAL DECISION: A thoughtful exploration of sexual misconduct and domestic abuse, though the multiple storylines, lessened the impact of any of them. Too much was going on, and the story was too superficial sometimes.

THE STORY: Gia Rossi reluctantly returns to her hometown of Wakefield, Iowa, at the request of her sister Margot to help care for their dying mother. Seventeen years after leaving town following a painful accusation of sexual misconduct against her teacher, Mr. Hart, Gia finds herself confronting old wounds and divided loyalties. As she navigates the town’s lingering judgment and her past, Gia discovers unexpected allies in her old Banned Books Club. Meanwhile, Margot seizes an opportunity to escape her emotionally abusive marriage, leaving Gia to face the challenges of her homecoming alone. Through standing up for the truth, Gia finds a path to healing, love, and a future in the town she thought had rejected her.

OPINION: THE BANNED BOOK CLUB showcases Novak’s ability to tackle complex themes, but there are too many storylines for any of them to really resonate. While the book offers a nuanced exploration of sexual misconduct and domestic abuse, the “women as victim” narrative, which has become prevalent in contemporary women’s fiction, felt overdone to me.

Novak’s strength lies in her thoughtful portrayal of complex subjects. The parallel stories of Gia’s past trauma and Margot’s current struggle with emotional abuse are handled with sensitivity but lack depth. The author doesn’t shy away from showing the complicated aftermath of Gia’s accusation, illustrating how such events can divide a community and have long-lasting effects on all involved, but I wish that the story had focused on Gia’s story. Margot’s was not needed and ended up distracting from Gia story. Not only does the book deal with the harassment story and domestic abuse but also adds the impending death of the mother. For me, there was just too much drama going on, and I was disappointed because I really enjoyed Gia’s story and thought that a deeper, more intense focus on her life and budding romance would have made this a better book.

While the book tackles heavy themes and offers moments of hope and healing, the persistent focus on trauma and victimhood may be draining for me. The drama, while realistic, becomes worn over the course of the novel.

One of the book’s strengths is its refusal to offer easy answers. Instead, it presents a realistic portrayal of the messy, complicated nature of healing from trauma and the challenge of confronting long-held beliefs. However, the multiple traumatic storylines just don’t give enough space for the story to breathe and be the most impactful.

WORTH MENTIONING: The title of the book is somewhat deceptive if readers are expecting a focus on banned books. While there is a book club group in the story, it is not as prominent as one might expect from the title. The book primarily deals with themes of sexual misconduct and domestic abuse rather than literary censorship.

CONNECTED BOOKS: This is a standalone book.

STAR RATING: I give this book 3 stars.

three-stars

Review: Portrait in Death

Review: Portrait in DeathPortrait in Death (In Death, #16) by J.D. Robb
Series: In Death #16
Published by Berkley on February 25, 2003
Genres: Mystery
Pages: 347
Goodreads
four-stars

FINAL DECISION: A really good entry in the In Death series. While the mystery starts slow, it builds to a heart-pounding finale. The real triumph here is in the character interactions, especially Roarke’s personal journey and the moments with secondary characters.

THE STORY: Eve Dallas investigates a series of murders where young, healthy victims are found dead, with the killer leaving behind haunting portraits of them. As Eve hunts for the twisted photographer, Roarke faces a personal crisis when he uncovers shocking information about his past.

OPINION: PORTRAIT IN DEATH showcases Robb at her best, blending mystery and character development into a compelling whole.

The murder investigation starts solidly, if unremarkable. However, the book’s last quarter ratchets up the tension, delivering a heart-pounding conclusion that had me on the edge of my seat. Robb proves once again she can craft a thrilling finale.

However, what elevates this book is the character interactions. Roarke’s storyline is a standout, showing his vulnerability as he grapples with revelations about his past. This adds new depth to his character and allows for some powerful moments between him and Eve. Their relationship continues to evolve, with Eve stepping into a supportive role that showcases her growth.

The variety of moments with secondary characters adds richness to the narrative. From Peabody’s steady presence to Summerset’s unexpected role, each interaction feels meaningful and adds to the overall tapestry of the story.

What’s particularly noteworthy is how just about every emotional moment incorporates characters we already know. This approach adds depth and layers to the world of In Death, making each book feel increasingly lived-in and authentic. It’s a testament to Robb’s skill in building a complex, interconnected cast of characters that readers care about.

The balance between the case and personal storylines is masterfully handled, keeping the pacing tight throughout. While the mystery is ultimately satisfying, the characters’ emotional journeys make this book truly memorable.

WORTH MENTIONING: This book offers significant development for Roarke’s character, providing insight into his background that longtime readers will particularly appreciate.

CONNECTED BOOKS: PORTRAIT IN DEATH is the 16th book in the In Death series. While the mystery in this book is standalone, there are continuing and overarching storylines (especially regarding character relationships and development) that continue from book to book. I recommend reading the series in order, although it is not strictly necessary.

STAR RATING: I give this book 5 stars.

four-stars

Review: The Witch Queen of Halloween

Review: The Witch Queen of HalloweenThe Witch Queen of Halloween (Immortals After Dark, #18.5) by Kresley Cole
Series: Immortals After Dark #18.5
Published by Valkyrie Press on March 26, 2024
Genres: Paranormal
Pages: 179
Goodreads
five-stars

FINAL DECISION: A fun Halloween romp that just made me smile. Cole proves once again she’s a master at managing her long-running series.

THE STORY: Rök Kours, a smoke demon, and Poppy Dyer, a witch, are mercenaries who end up trapped in a deceased wizard’s house on Halloween. It’s a second chance for these two – their first date ended abruptly when Rok was summoned away and never came back, leaving Poppy with a heap of resentment.

OPINION: THE WITCH QUEEN OF HALLOWEEN packs a punch with its tight narrative and vivid characters. Cole’s creativity seems boundless, throwing in twists, suspense, and laugh-out-loud moments that keep you on your toes. She even sneaks in some pop culture nods and hints at future events.

Rök and Poppy’s relationship sizzles with great dialogue and chemistry. Their banter is top-notch as they tackle the challenges of the “haunted” house. Both are headstrong and passionate, making for an equal and exciting match.

The story is a treat for series fans, tying up loose ends from previous books. It’s cleverly plotted, showing off Cole’s knack for juggling a complex series.

I loved how the forced proximity trope played out here. The adventure is pure fun, and the steamy moments don’t disappoint. Cole has a real talent for creating characters you can’t help but root for.

WORTH MENTIONING: Don’t let the novella label fool you – this story is fully fleshed out with a solid plot and well-developed characters.

CONNECTED BOOKS: THE WITCH QUEEN OF HALLOWEEN is book 18.5 in the Immortals After Dark series. While the story stands on its own, I’d recommend reading the series in order to fully appreciate the Lore. That said, newcomers could still enjoy this as a standalone, though series readers will catch more of the nuances.

STAR RATING: I give this book 5 stars.

five-stars

Review: Purity in Death

Review: Purity in DeathPurity in Death (In Death, #15) by J.D. Robb
Series: In Death #15
Published by Berkley on February 27, 2021
Genres: Mystery
Pages: 362
Goodreads
four-stars

FINAL DECISION: Enjoyable addition to the series. The highlight is the development of secondary recurring characters. While the central conflict of procedural justice versus vigilantism is interesting, I found the character interactions (especially the recurring secondary characters) more compelling than the mystery itself.

THE STORY: Lieutenant Eve Dallas investigates a series of deaths caused by a vigilante group using a computer virus to kill those they deem guilty but who have escaped legal justice. The case is especially challenging as it seems to implicate powerful and well-connected people in New York City.

OPINION: I found PURITY IN DEATH to be a solid entry in the In Death series. The book’s central conflict between procedural justice and vigilantism provides an interesting backdrop for the investigation, raising questions about the nature of justice and the role of law enforcement.

The real strength of this installment, however, lies in the development of the secondary recurring characters. We see growth and change in familiar faces like Peabody, McNab, Feeney, and others. Their personal and professional developments add depth to the series’ world and provide some of the most enjoyable moments in the book.

Eve and Roarke’s relationship continues to evolve, offering a mix of supportive and conflicting moments that keep their dynamic interesting. Their scenes together remain a highlight of the series.

While the ethical questions raised by the vigilante group’s actions are thought-provoking, it’s the character interactions and growth that keep me coming back to these books. PURITY IN DEATH balances advancing the overall series arc through character development while providing a self-contained mystery.

WORTH MENTIONING: A character from a prior book in the series makes a significant appearance. I loved checking in.

CONNECTED BOOKS: PURITY IN DEATH is the 15th book in the In Death series. While the mysteries in each book are standalone, there are continuing and overarching storylines (especially regarding character relationships and development) that continue from book to book. I recommend reading the series in order, although it is not strictly necessary.

STAR RATING: I give this book 4 stars.

four-stars

Review: Reunion in Death

Review: Reunion in DeathReunion in Death (In Death, #14) by J.D. Robb
Series: In Death #14
Published by Berkley on March 5, 2002
Genres: Mystery
Pages: 378
Goodreads
five-stars

FINAL DECISION: REUNION IN DEATH is an outstanding entry in the In Death series. Eve’s personal journey as she confronts her past and deepens her relationships makes this a pivotal book in her character development. The balance of a compelling mystery with rich character growth results in a truly satisfying read.

THE STORY: Lieutenant Eve Dallas faces a blast from her past when Walter Pettibone is murdered at his own birthday party. The killer is Julianna Dunne, a woman Eve put away years ago who has now been released and is out for revenge. As Eve races to catch Julianna before she kills again, she must also confront the memories and emotions from her own past.

OPINION: REUNION IN DEATH stands out as a powerful installment in the series, offering a perfect blend of character development and suspenseful storytelling.

While there isn’t much mystery here since Julianna Dunne’s involvement is known early on, the book excels in its portrayal of a tense cat and mouse game. Eve’s attempts to anticipate and outwit the murderer create a palpable sense of urgency and excitement throughout the narrative. This chase adds a layer of suspense that keeps the pages turning, even as the focus remains on character development.

The heart of this book lies in Eve’s continued confrontation with her past. As she deals with Julianna, a reminder of her early cases, Eve is forced to revisit and process aspects of her history. This introspection leads to significant character growth, providing some of the most poignant and revealing moments in the series so far.

What makes this book truly special is how Eve’s personal growth impacts her relationships. We see a profound deepening of her connection with Roarke as she becomes more open and vulnerable. Their scenes together are both tender and passionate, showcasing the strength of their partnership in the face of Eve’s emotional journey and the high-stakes case.

Moreover, Eve’s character development extends to her other relationships as well. We see her building stronger connections with characters like Peabody, Mira, and Feeney. This evolution from the solitary character we met in NAKED IN DEATH to someone who is slowly building a network of meaningful relationships is beautifully portrayed.

WORTH MENTIONING: One thing I really enjoy about the IN DEATH series is how the secondary characters develop as well. This book gives readers more about Peabody and develops her character more as well.

CONNECTED BOOKS: REUNION IN DEATH is the fourteenth book in the IN DEATH series. The mystery here is self-contained and thus can be read as a standalone; however, the character development is significant in this series, and Eve’s struggles are important here, so I recommend reading the books in order.

STAR RATING: I give this book 5 stars.

five-stars

Review: Seduction in Death

Review: Seduction in DeathSeduction in Death (In Death, #13) by J.D. Robb
Series: In Death #13
Published by Berkley on September 1, 2001
Genres: Mystery
Pages: 372
Goodreads
four-stars

FINAL DECISION: SEDUCTION IN DEATH is a solid addition to the In Death series. The book shines in its exploration of Eve’s ongoing struggle with her past and the deepening of her relationship with Roarke while the mystery takes a backseat.

THE STORY: In 2059, New York Lieutenant Eve Dallas investigates a series of murders involving young women. As Eve works the case, she finds herself confronting aspects of her traumatic childhood, adding personal stakes to the investigation.

OPINION: SEDUCTION IN DEATH is an engaging read in the series, though its strengths lie more in character development than in the mystery itself. The most compelling aspects of this book are how the crime impacts Eve and forces her to grapple with her past. We see Eve exploring and dealing with new aspects of the tragedy of her childhood. This internal struggle adds depth to her character and provides some of the most poignant moments in the book.

As always, the interactions between Eve and Roarke are the highlight of the story. Their relationship continues to evolve and deepen, offering both tender moments and the spark of tension that makes their dynamic so engaging. Robb excels at showing how their connection deepens even as Eve struggles with her past and the demands of her job.

The actual crime and the criminal’s identity are less important in this installment, with the whodunnit revealed early on. This allows more room for character exploration, which works to the book’s advantage.

While not the most mystery-focused entry in the series, SEDUCTION IN DEATH delivers on the character development and relationship aspects that fans of the series have come to love. It’s a solid addition that furthers the overall arc of Eve’s personal growth and her relationship with Roarke.

WORTH MENTIONING: There is a great secondary character story that continues to develop which adds some levity when Eve’s personal story is darker here.

CONNECTED BOOKS: SEDUCTION IN DEATH is the 13th book in the In Death series. While the crime plot stands alone, the character development benefits significantly from familiarity with earlier books.

STAR RATING: I give this book 4 stars.

four-stars

Review: Primal Mirror

Review: Primal MirrorPrimal Mirror (Psy-Changeling Trinity, #8) by Nalini Singh
Series: Psy-Changeling Trinity #8
Published by Berkley on July 23, 2024
Genres: Paranormal
Pages: 398
Goodreads
five-stars

FINAL DECISION: This book is simply amazing. I loved the interaction between Auden and Remi. Sometimes, the book reads like a psychological thriller, which is perfect for the story. The Psy-Changeling series is an amazing achievement that keeps getting better.

THE STORY: Remi, the alpha of the RainFire leopard pack, meets Auden Scott, a psychometric Psy with a troubled past. Months after their initial encounter, Remi discovers Auden is heavily pregnant, with no memory of how it happened. Auden, the daughter of former Psy Councillors, has suffered brain damage from her parents’ experiments and experiences memory gaps and personality shifts.

As Auden struggles to protect her unborn child from those who might wish to harm or control them, including members of her own family, she turns to Remi for help. Remi, drawn to Auden, vows to protect her and her baby.

Meanwhile, the PsyNet is on the verge of collapse, adding urgency and complication to their situation. As Remi and Auden grow closer, they must navigate the dangers posed by Auden’s family, her mysterious condition, and the wider crisis affecting the Psy race.

OPINION: I was absolutely captivated by PRIMAL MIRROR, the latest addition to Nalini Singh’s Psy-Changeling Trinity series. From the moment I started reading, I was drawn into the intricate world Singh has created, and I found myself completely immersed in the story of Remi and Auden.

What strikes me most about Singh’s writing, and PRIMAL MIRROR is no exception, is her incredible strength in character development and the connections she weaves between characters. The web of relationships and interactions between various characters and communities is truly astounding. I found myself marveling at how seamlessly she integrates new characters like Auden into the existing framework while also deepening our understanding of established characters like Remi.

The chemistry between Remi, the strong and protective alpha of the RainFire leopard pack, and Auden Scott, a psychometric Psy with a mysterious past, was electric. I found myself rooting for them from their very first encounter. Their relationship doesn’t exist in isolation, though – it’s beautifully contextualized within the broader tapestry of pack dynamics, Psy politics, and inter-species relations.

Singh’s world-building continues to leave me in awe. With each book, she manages to expand this universe in ways that feel both surprising and inevitable. PRIMAL MIRROR is no exception, adding new layers to an already rich tapestry. I love how she balances intimate character moments with grand, world-shaping events, creating a narrative that feels both personal and epic.

What I particularly enjoyed was how the book seamlessly blended elements of a psychological thriller with the paranormal romance I’ve come to expect from the series. Auden’s struggle with her memory gaps and unexpected pregnancy added a layer of suspense that kept me on the edge of my seat. I couldn’t put the book down, desperate to unravel the mystery surrounding her condition.

The ongoing crisis in the PsyNet provided a thrilling backdrop to Remi and Auden’s personal story. It was also a joy to see familiar faces like Lucas, Aden, and Kaleb make appearances, further reinforcing the interconnected nature of Singh’s world.

Ultimately, I closed this book with a contented sigh, thoroughly satisfied yet eager for more. The Psy-Changeling series continues to be my ultimate favorite, and this book is a shining example of why. It’s a perfect blend of scorching romance, heart-pounding action, and intriguing plot twists, all built on a foundation of rich character development and masterful world-building. I’m already counting down the days until I can dive into the next installment of this extraordinary saga.

WORTH MENTIONING: This book wraps up some of the ongoing storyline while opening new avenues for future books.

CONNECTED BOOKS: PRIMAL MIRROR is the 8th book in the Psy-Changeling Trinity series and the 23rd book in the series. This book should not be read as a standalone because it depends upon the series’ mythology. A reader can start with the first book in the Trinity series, but because the entire Psy-Changeling series is so good, I recommend starting from the beginning.

STAR RATING: I give this book 5 stars.

five-stars

Review: The Burning

Review: The BurningThe Burning (Kate Burkholder, #16) by Linda Castillo
Series: Kate Burkholder #16
Published by Minotaur Books on July 9, 2024
Genres: Mystery
Pages: 320
Goodreads
five-stars

FINAL DECISION: THE BURNING offers a perfect blend of shocking crime, cultural insights into Anabaptist life, and the compelling dynamic between newlyweds Kate and Tomasetti as they solve the case.

THE STORY: Police Chief Kate Burkholder is called to investigate when an excommunicated Amish man, Milan Swanz, is found chained to a stake and burned alive in the woods near Painters Mill, Ohio. The brutal nature of the crime leads Kate to explore deep-rooted aspects of Anabaptist history and traditions, including past persecutions and cultural practices.

As Kate delves deeper into the case, she encounters resistance (again) from the Amish community, who prefer to handle their affairs internally. The investigation takes a personal turn when evidence surfaces that implicates Kate’s own brother in the murder, creating tension between her and her superiors in law enforcement.

Simultaneously, Kate is navigating her new marriage to John Tomasetti. As they work together on this complex case, the investigation’s pressures force them to confront challenges in balancing their personal and professional lives.

The case becomes increasingly complicated as Kate uncovers layers of secrets and motivations within the community. She must navigate the delicate balance between respecting Amish customs and pursuing justice while dealing with mounting pressure from her family ties and her role as Chief of Police.

OPINION: As a long-time fan of Linda Castillo’s Kate Burkholder series, I eagerly anticipated THE BURNING after Kate’s marriage in the last book. I’m thrilled to say it exceeded my expectations. This sixteenth installment is a dark, chilling ride that hooked me from the first page.

What I love most about this series is how Castillo brings the characters to life, and in THE BURNING, she’s outdone herself. Kate Burkholder, our tenacious Chief of Police, feels more real to me with each book. Her recent marriage to John Tomasetti adds a new dimension to her character, and I particularly enjoyed seeing them work together on this case.

The plot revolves around a horrific murder – an Amish man burned alive. Castillo doesn’t pull her punches with the graphic details, but she effectively conveys the brutality of the crime. As Kate delves into the investigation, the tension ramps up, especially when her brother becomes implicated. I was utterly engrossed as the mystery unfolded.

One of the standout aspects of this book for me was Castillo’s skillful exploration of Anabaptist culture. As always, she manages to weave educational elements into the narrative without ever feeling didactic or slowing the pace. I found myself fascinated by the insights into this community, learning about their beliefs and practices in a way that felt organic to the story. Castillo’s approach is consistently respectful, offering a nuanced portrayal that avoids stereotypes or oversimplification. Her meticulous research is evident, bringing an authenticity to the setting that immerses the reader in Kate’s world. This cultural backdrop adds depth to the characters and their motivations, enriching the reading experience.

The pacing was punishing as the action rarely lets up, and I could not put the book down. Castillo’s writing is crisp and efficient, without unnecessary repetition, which I always appreciate. The plot twists kept me guessing, and the action-packed ending kept me on the edge of my seat.

While I love the mystery aspect, the characters in this world keep me coming back to the series. Kate’s growth throughout the books has been a joy to witness, and in this installment, I was particularly impressed by her ability to delegate and lead her team effectively.

In conclusion, THE BURNING is another stellar addition to the Kate Burkholder series. It’s gripping and suspenseful and showcases Castillo’s storytelling prowess. If you’re a fan of police procedurals or crime thrillers with strong female leads, I can’t recommend this book enough. I’m already counting down the days until the next installment!

WORTH MENTIONING: Now that Kate and John are married, I liked seeing that there might be a new romance in the series.

CONNECTED BOOKS: THE BURNING is the sixteenth book in the Kate Burkholder series. The mystery is self-contained; thus, this book can be read as a standalone. The overarching character stories are much better when the series is read in order, but that is unnecessary for those who are only interested in the mystery.

STAR RATING: I give this book 5 stars.

NOTE: I received an eARC of this book via Netgalley in preparing this review. I was not required to write a review or to write a positive review. All opinions contained herein are my own. I purchased a copy of the book myself after its release.

five-stars