Born in Death (In Death, #23) by J.D. Robb, Nora Roberts
Series: In Death #23
Published by Berkley Books on November 7, 2006
Genres: Mystery, Paranormal, Futuristic
Pages: 338
Goodreads

FINAL DECISION: A strong entry in the series that balances the murder investigation with major developments in Eve and Roarke’s personal lives, along with those of their friends. Another book where the person is better than the mystery for me.

THE STORY: Eve Dallas and her team (friends and colleagues) investigate the brutal murders of two young accountants, uncovering a tangled web of fraud and corruption. At the same time, Eve and Roarke are thrust into unexpected roles as Mavis is planning for the birth of her child.

OPINION: This book works because it combines a solid, suspenseful mystery with moments of warmth and humor. The mystery is grounded and detailed, yet the highlight is how the personal stakes rise with Mavis and Leonardo’s baby. Eve’s struggles with impending godparenthood allow for sharp character growth and plenty of laughs, especially as she navigates the unfamiliar world of baby showers and Lamaze. The juxtaposition of grim murders with joyous new life brings balance and depth to the story. This is one of the books that illustrates Eve’s evolving capacity for friendship and connection. Her loyalty to Mavis, though awkwardly expressed, shows how far she has come since the early books.

WORTH MENTIONING: This book does a great balance between slapstick humor and the serious mystery story.

CONNECTED BOOKS: BORN IN DEATH is the 23rd book in the In Death series. It can be read as a standalone for the mystery plot, but the emotional payoff is richer if read in series order, especially for the Mavis storyline.

STAR RATING: I give this book 4 stars.