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Review: Innocent in Death

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Review: Innocent in DeathInnocent in Death (In Death, #24) by J.D. Robb
Series: In Death #24
Published by Berkley on February 20, 2007
Genres: Mystery, Futuristic
Pages: 401
Goodreads
five-stars

FINAL DECISION: INNOCENT IN DEATH is one of the creepiest and emotional books in the series, showing just how fragile even the strongest relationships can be. It’s a standout entry that pairs a solid mystery with deep personal conflict between Eve and Roarke.

THE STORY: A beloved teacher is murdered in what seems like a clear-cut poisoning, and Eve’s investigation uncovers a web of lies, manipulation, and cruelty beneath the surface of an elite private school. But the case takes a backseat when someone from Roarke’s past reappears, threatening the trust and emotional equilibrium Eve has worked so hard to build.

OPINION: This book is unforgettable because of how deeply it tests Eve and Roarke’s marriage. The emotional distance between them is far more painful than any external danger they’ve faced, and Robb writes their conflict with an honesty that feels almost intrusive at times. Eve’s insecurity, born from her abusive past and her inexperience with love, collides with Roarke’s charm and the reappearance of someone who once knew him intimately. It’s hard to watch, yet impossible to turn away from. The emotional realism—how each of them reacts, lashes out, and retreats—is some of Robb’s best character work in the entire series.

Eve’s vulnerability is especially raw here. She can command a crime scene or face down a killer without hesitation, but she doesn’t know how to handle jealousy or emotional ambiguity. That confusion makes her both frustrating and heartbreakingly human. Roarke, too, is imperfect—his pride and past collide with his devotion to Eve, and the result is a rift that feels entirely believable. Their reconciliation isn’t quick or easy, which makes it feel earned.

Beyond the relationship turmoil, the murder investigation is chilling in its portrayal of what “innocence” really means. The victim is outwardly good, but the truth behind the school’s polished surface reveals selfishness, cruelty, and manipulation among both adults and children.

WORTH MENTIONING: This one is one of my favorites.

CONNECTED BOOKS: INNOCENT IN DEATH is the 24th book in the IN DEATH series. Although the mystery is self-contained, it is best read in order, as the emotional stakes depend heavily on the reader’s connection to Eve and Roarke’s history.

STAR RATING: I give this book 5 stars.

five-stars

Review: Born in Death

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Review: Born in DeathBorn 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
four-half-stars

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.

four-half-stars

Review: Memory in Death

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Review: Memory in DeathMemory in Death (In Death, #22) by J.D. Robb
Series: In Death #22
Published by Berkley Genres: Mystery, Futuristic
Pages: 347
Goodreads
four-half-stars

FINAL DECISION: A quieter book with a straightforward case, but the emotional weight makes this a strong entry. The story is intensely personal, and both Eve and Roarke have prominent roles. The best part of the series is how character-driven it is, and that’s where this one shines.

THE STORY: Eve is contacted by Trudy Lombard, a woman from her childhood who once took her in as a foster child—and abused her. Now Trudy is back, looking for money and threatening to go public with Eve’s secrets. But before the blackmail can go any further, Trudy is murdered. Eve has to solve the case while dealing with the emotional fallout of seeing her past resurface.

OPINION: This isn’t one of the more complicated mysteries in the series. The case comes together without major twists. But it’s effective because of how much it hits Eve personally. She’s shaken but still focused, and we get to see how she works through her trauma without letting it control her.

Roarke is heavily involved, and there’s some tension between them that works well. He wants to protect her, and she’s not comfortable with that. Their conflict adds depth and shows how they keep figuring each other out. Their scenes are a highlight.

The supporting cast plays a strong role here, too. Peabody, Nadine, and Summerset all help Eve process what’s happening in their own ways. These characters have been built up over the series as her support system, and that’s very clear in this book. Even though the plot is smaller in scale, the emotional impact gives it weight.

There’s also some needed humor and warmth woven into the story, especially in how awkwardly and reluctantly Eve handles giving out holiday presents. It adds levity and keeps the book from being too heavy despite the serious subject matter.

WORTH MENTIONING: This book takes place during the holiday season. There’s a shift toward Eve building traditions and accepting more of her found family.

CONNECTED BOOKS: Memory in Death is book 22 in the In Death series. The mystery stands alone, but the emotional arc is more meaningful if you’ve read the prior books.

STAR RATING: I give this book 4.5 stars.

four-half-stars

Review: Rage

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I received this book for free from Netgalley in order to prepare an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.


Review: RageRage (Kate Burkholder, #17) by Linda Castillo
Series: Kate Burkholder #17
Published by Minotaur Books on July 8, 2025
Genres: Contemporary, Mystery
Goodreads

FINAL DECISION: Rage delivers another solid entry in the Kate Burkholder series, fast-paced, disturbing, and packed with familiar faces, as Castillo balances brutal crime with emotional depth and steady character work.

THE STORY: The summer heat in Painters Mill turns suffocating in more ways than one when three Amish children discover dismembered human remains. The body is soon identified as Samuel Eicher, a young Amish man with a successful landscaping business. Not long after, his best friend, Aaron Shetler, is found stuffed in a barrel. Chief of Police Kate Burkholder investigates what connects these two gruesome deaths—and why no one wants to talk. As the bodies pile up and the violence escalates, Kate begins to suspect the victims were caught up in something far more dangerous than anyone imagined. With the help of her husband John Tomasetti and trusted colleagues, Kate follows the trail into the dark corners of Amish life—and becomes a target herself.

OPINION: Seventeen books in, this series remains one of my favorite comfort reads, even when the crimes themselves are anything but comforting. RAGE is a strong entry—tense, twisty, and consistently engaging.

The case is one of the most personally dangerous Kate has ever faced. The pacing is fast, the stakes are high, and the graphic nature of the murders adds a visceral edge to the story.

What stood out most to me in this installment is how much Kate has grown over the course of the series. Early on, she often tackled cases with a sense of isolation, even when surrounded by allies. In RAGE, we see her operating more fully as part of a team, trusting her staff, leaning on John Tomasetti, and collaborating closely with Sheriff Rasmussen. These working relationships feel earned and reflect the character development that has unfolded book by book.

I also loved seeing Kate and John as newlyweds—settled, steady, and continuing to support one another both professionally and personally. Their dynamic feels lived-in and authentic. Kate’s small police department continues to shine as well, and the camaraderie and loyalty between them bring heart to the story.

Thematically, the book explores the tension between community silence and personal truth, particularly within the context of rumspringa and the pressures faced by young Amish men. These cultural elements add richness and depth to what could otherwise be a standard police procedural.

WORTH MENTIONING: Yet again, Kate ends up injured and in mortal danger by the climax—something that’s happened so often in the series that it’s starting to feel repetitive rather than suspenseful.

CONNECTED BOOKS: RAGE is the seventeenth book in the Kate Burkholder series. The mystery stands alone, but the character development builds over the series. Best enjoyed in order.

STAR RATING: I give this book 4.5 stars.

NOTE: I received an eARC of this book via Netgalley. I was not required to write a review or to write a positive review. All opinions contained herein are my own.

Review: Survivor in Death

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Review: Survivor in DeathSurvivor In Death (In Death, #20) by J.D. Robb, Nora Roberts
Series: In Death #20
Published by Berkley Books on February 1, 2005
Genres: Mystery, Futuristic
Pages: 384
Goodreads
five-stars

FINAL DECISION: An emotionally powerful book. I’ve read it repeatedly and still enjoy it. The case involving a child survivor brings out new dimensions in the characters and challenges Eve in deeply personal ways. A standout entry that showcases the heart of the series.

THE STORY: Lieutenant Eve Dallas is called to a horrific crime scene where an entire family has been murdered in their sleep – all except for nine-year-old Nixie Swisher. As the only witness and possible target, Nixie must be protected. Eve brings her home, forcing Eve and Roarke to temporarily become guardians while hunting for cold-blooded killers who may return to finish the job.

OPINION: SURVIVOR IN DEATH is one of the books in the series that is important to the character development in the In Death series.

The murder investigation unfolds at a perfect pace. But what elevates this book to something special is how the case impacts Eve on a deeply personal level. Nixie’s situation resonates with Eve’s own childhood trauma, creating moments of genuine emotional power throughout the story.

Eve’s reluctant role as Nixie’s protector forces her outside her comfort zone in ways that reveal new aspects of her character. Her awkward but determined efforts to connect with and protect this traumatized child showcase both her growth throughout the series and her fundamental decency beneath the tough exterior.

Roarke shines in this book as well, naturally stepping into a supportive role for both Eve and Nixie. Their temporary family unit creates touching scenes which echo as the series goes forward, balancing the darkness of the crime with moments of warmth and even humor.

The secondary characters each contribute meaningfully to the story, from Peabody’s steadfast support to Summerset’s unexpected connection with Nixie. The entire cast rallies around this child in ways that highlight the found family that has formed around Eve over the course of the series.

WORTH MENTIONING: This book deals with the murder of children and family trauma, which may be difficult for some readers.

CONNECTED BOOKS: SURVIVOR IN DEATH is the 20th 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.

five-stars

Review: Visions in Death

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Review: Visions in DeathVisions in Death (In Death, #19) by J.D. Robb
Series: In Death #19
Published by Berkley Books on August 3, 2004
Genres: Mystery, Futuristic
Pages: 384
Goodreads
four-stars

FINAL DECISION: A solid entry in the In Death series that leans more toward the procedural side. While the mystery is well-crafted, the highlight is the development of Eve and Peabody’s relationship.

THE STORY: Eve Dallas investigates a series of brutal murders where women are strangled with a red ribbon, their eyes removed after death. The case takes an unusual turn when a psychic, Celina Sanchez, comes forward with visions of the murders. Initially skeptical, Eve must determine whether Celina’s insights are legitimate and if they can help catch the killer before he strikes again.

OPINION: VISIONS IN DEATH is a good addition to the series, though it focuses more heavily on the crime than character development. The investigation takes center stage in this book, with the serial killer case driving most of the action. Robb crafts a tense, methodical hunt for a particularly disturbing murderer. The procedural elements are well-executed, with Eve’s detective work showcased in detail as she pursues a killer with a specific pattern.

While the case is engrossing, there’s less of the personal growth and relationship development that makes the best books in this series shine. However, the book does deliver in one significant area: the evolution of Eve and Peabody’s relationship. Their dynamic deepens in meaningful ways, revealing the trust and respect that has grown between them. These moments provide the story’s emotional core and are the true highlight of this installment. They also show how far these two have come since Peabody was first introduced to the series.

The introduction of the psychic element adds an interesting dimension to the investigation, challenging Eve’s strictly logical approach.

WORTH MENTIONING: Reading these books years after they were written creates an interesting contrast between Robb’s imagined 2050s technology and our technological development. As we get closer to the timeframe of these books, the technological elements feel less like predictions of the future and more like an alternate timeline—a nostalgic vision of what we once thought the future might be.

CONNECTED BOOKS: VISIONS IN DEATH is the 19th 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 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: A Ruse of Shadows

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Review: A Ruse of ShadowsA Ruse of Shadows (Lady Sherlock, #8) by Sherry Thomas
Series: Lady Sherlock #8
Published by Berkley on June 25, 2024
Genres: Mystery
Pages: 368
Goodreads
four-stars

FINAL DECISION:  This book has a lot of mystery plot which sometimes confuses and overwhelms but has a payoff for those who have followed the series for a while.

THE STORY: Charlotte Holmes finds herself in a precarious position when Lord Bancroft Ashburton, previously imprisoned due to her investigations, forces her to search for his missing lieutenant, Underwood. The situation becomes even more complicated when Lord Bancroft himself turns up dead, and Charlotte emerges as the prime suspect, meeting all three criteria: motive, means, and opportunity. Meanwhile, Charlotte continues her plans to free her sister Livia’s beloved Stephen from Moriarty’s control, all while navigating her evolving relationship with Lord Ingram.

OPINION: This is a good but complex book that tells its story through two timelines: Charlotte’s interrogation in the present and the events leading to Lord Bancroft’s death. The story connects to plot points from earlier books in the series, revealing important information about Moriarty’s organization.

Charlotte stands out as the main character by being different from the original Sherlock Holmes – she has strong emotions and loyalty, though she shows them in her own way. The relationships in the book develop well, especially between Charlotte and Lord Ingram, and Charlotte’s efforts to help her sister Livia be happy. The “found family” aspect adds some warmth to the story.

The main challenge is keeping track of everything. There are many references to past events and characters, which might be hard to follow if you don’t remember the previous books well. While the author explains some background information, you need to pay close attention to follow the plot.

WORTH MENTIONING: The novel includes a helpful dramatis personae at the beginning to help readers keep track of the extensive cast of characters as the plot and relationships become more complex.

CONNECTED BOOKS: A RUSE OF SHADOWS is the eighth book in the Lady Sherlock series. The mystery here is self-contained, but the characters involved and the story draw from prior books in the series and should be read for complete understanding.

STAR RATING: I give this book 4 stars.

four-stars

Review: Divided in Death

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Review: Divided in DeathDivided in Death (In Death, #18) by J.D. Robb, Nora Roberts
Series: In Death #18
Published by Berkley Books on January 26, 2004
Genres: Mystery
Pages: 371
Goodreads
five-stars

FINAL DECISION: A standout entry in the In Death series that delivers both a tricky mystery and a deeply personal, emotional conflict between Eve and Roarke.

THE STORY: When Reva Ewing, a former Secret Service agent and Roarke employee, is found standing over the bodies of her husband and his lover, the case seems straightforward. But as Eve investigates, she uncovers a deeper conspiracy. Even more challenging, evidence surfaces involving Eve’s childhood trauma, leading to a fundamental conflict between Eve and Roarke, which challenges their marriage.

OPINION: This book delves deeply into Eve’s past trauma and the moral complexities of justice versus vengeance, making it an emotionally charged but immensely rewarding read. This series’s best books have an intriguing mystery and reveal complexities and conflicts between Eve and Roarke. This one satisfies both for me.

Although this is the eighteenth book, only a few years have passed since Eve and Roarke met and married. They are still working through their relationship challenges, and I enjoyed seeing them gain a deeper understanding of each other. Their conflict in this book feels genuine and adds depth to their relationship, forcing them to confront fundamental differences in their worldviews.

The mystery itself is solid, with layers of conspiracy and technological intrigue keeping the investigation interesting. However, what makes this book exceptional is the personal stakes—particularly as Eve must deal with new revelations about her past. The way she processes this information while simultaneously managing both the case and her conflict with Roarke showcases her growth as a character.

Secondary characters provide crucial support and perspective, helping to ground Eve and Roarke as they work through their differences. The number of secondary characters keeps growing, and I appreciate their complexity, as I care more about them with each new layer we learn.

WORTH MENTIONING: We learn more about Eve’s past for the first time in a couple of books.

CONNECTED BOOKS: DIVIDED IN DEATH is the 18th book in the In Death series. While the mystery in this book is standalone, there are continuing and overarching storylines (especially regarding Eve and Roake’s history) 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.

five-stars

Review: Remember When

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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

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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