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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: 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: Atonement Sky

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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: Atonement SkyAtonement Sky (Psy-Changeling Trinity, #9; Psy-Changeling, #24) by Nalini Singh
Published by Berkley on July 15, 2025
Genres: Paranormal
Goodreads
four-half-stars

FINAL DECISION: A dark, emotional, and satisfying second-chance romance, ATONEMENT SKY explores pain, guilt, and healing in the way only the Psy-Changeling series can. Eleri and Adam’s story delivers the emotional intensity and character depth that long-time readers crave, while still pushing the series-wide arc forward in meaningful ways.

THE STORY: Justice Psy Eleri Dias knows her time is almost up. Her shields are deteriorating, and psychic burnout is imminent. She travels to Raintree, Arizona, to track a serial killer—but also to confront the one man she’s never been able to forget. Adam Garrett, now wing leader of a group of falcon changelings, was once a teenage boy who opened her heart, and then lost everything. Their reunion is strained, as ten years of pain and misunderstanding sit between them, but the case forces them into close proximity. As they work to uncover a killer, they also unearth long-buried truths about what really happened in the past… and what they still mean to each other.

OPINION: Eleri and Adam had a connection from the start, but were torn apart by events neither could control. A decade later, that connection hasn’t faded, but has only been avoided by both of them. I appreciated that both characters had to change in order to reunite with each other. Adam’s shift from bitterness to open devotion is rewarding. Eleri, meanwhile, learns how to let herself feel again and to choose love, even at great cost.  Adam and Eleri both carry the weight of their past, and I liked that the book allowed them space to work through it. Nothing is easy between them. Adam has to face the consequences of his own assumptions, and Eleri has to reckon with choices she made at a time when she had very little power. I found their journey believable and compelling, especially as they slowly begin to trust each other again. There is real gentleness between them once they move past the anger. Adam and Eleri are sweet together after much pain from their past, and that tenderness gives the story its emotional weight.

The pacing of the book is especially well done. Just when things seem to be going right, the emotional and plot tension ramps up again. The romance unfolds alongside an ongoing murder investigation, and the mystery gives the story momentum. I liked how the case wasn’t just a backdrop. It ties into the broader Psy-Changeling world and ends up providing answers to lingering questions in the series. Singh strikes a strong balance here: the emotional core of the book is the relationship, but the external stakes raise the urgency and keep the story grounded in the larger series arc.

I also really liked that Sasha and Lucas (one of my favorite couples) make significant appearances. For a time, it felt like Singh was using the Trinity arc to move away from the original cast, but I’m glad to see more and more of the original crew returning in meaningful ways. It adds depth, continuity, and emotional weight for longtime readers. That’s especially true of Sophia and Max, whose presence in this book is not just background. They play a critical role, and in many ways, this book gives them a powerful second act. Their story is still unfolding, and I found their scenes just as compelling as the main arc.

WORTH MENTIONING: We finally get an in-depth look at a falcon-shifter clan. Their aerial lifestyle, cultural bonds, and protectiveness add a new dynamic to the changeling world.

CONNECTED BOOKS: ATONEMENT SKY is the ninth book in the Psy-Changeling Trinity series, which continues the overarching Psy-Changeling storyline and is book twenty-four. While this book can be read on its own, readers will get more out of it with some background. BONDS OF JUSTICE (Psy-Changeling #8), which features Sophia as the heroine, offers important context and ties directly into her role here.

STAR RATING: I give this book 4.5 stars.

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

four-half-stars

Review: It Takes a Psychic

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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: It Takes a PsychicIt Takes a Psychic (Ghost Hunters #17) by Jayne Castle
Series: Ghost Hunters #17
Published by Berkley on June 3, 2025
Genres: Paranormal, Futuristic
Goodreads
five-stars

FINAL DECISION: A fun, fast-paced mix of romance, mystery, and teamwork, IT TAKES A PSYCHIC is everything I love about Jayne Castle’s Harmony books—smart characters, a rich world, and dust bunnies that steal the show.

THE STORY: IT TAKES A PSYCHIC is set on Harmony, a distant planet settled by humans where psychic powers and alien tech are part of everyday life. Leona Griffin is a psychic archeologist who can tell if ancient artifacts are real. When she’s invited to a fancy collectors’ event, she finds a mysterious object called Pandora’s Box—and then stumbles across a murder. She ends up on the run with Oliver Rancourt, a private investigator with his own psychic skills. Together, they head to the spooky town of Lost Creek to figure out what’s going on in that town.

OPINION: Leona and Oliver made a great team. I really enjoyed watching them work together—no unnecessary drama, no games, just two capable people thrown into a dangerous situation and handling it with trust and teamwork. Their connection felt real, and the romance developed naturally alongside the action.

The mystery and suspense kept things moving. There were enough twists to stay interesting, and the stakes felt high without ever getting too heavy. And as always, Harmony is just a fun place to spend time. Castle keeps finding new corners of this world to explore, and it never feels stale.

And then there’s Roxy. The dust bunnies are always a highlight of these books—sometimes even more than the romance—and Roxy is no exception. She’s unpredictable, funny, and totally steals every scene she’s in.

I’ve enjoyed my time on Harmony with its psychic talents and offbeat charm, especially as a longtime fan of the Arcane series. These books are clearly the descendants—maybe even the great-great-grandchildren—of those historical (and contemporary) novels, and I love seeing how that world has expanded.

One thing I’ve always appreciated about Krentz/Castle/Quick is how she writes competency. From her early books in the 1980s to now, her characters know what they’re doing—at work, in danger, and in relationships. That’s true here too. The couple doesn’t just fall in love—they solve problems together. The characters may have a little “extra” with their psychic edge, but they still feel grounded, and honestly, some of her most compelling.

This is the perfect book for summer fun—even if the summer happens to be on another planet.

WORTH MENTIONING: Dust Bunnies!!! I am a sucker for them.

CONNECTED BOOKS: IT TAKES A PSYCHIC is book seventeen in the Ghost Hunters series. You don’t need to read the others to enjoy this one—the story and romance stand on their own—but the world feels richer if you’re already familiar with the series. Longtime readers will catch more of the background and details, and it does pick up where the prior book in the series left off and answers some lingering questions.

STAR RATING: I give this book 5 stars.

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

five-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: Shattering Dawn

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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: Shattering DawnShattering Dawn (The Lost Night Files Book 3) by Jayne Ann Krentz
Series: The Lost Night Files #3
Published by Berkley on January 7, 2025
Genres: Romantic Suspense
Goodreads
four-half-stars

FINAL DECISION: A satisfying blend of paranormal suspense and romance that successfully concludes the Lost Night Files trilogy, though it leans more heavily on suspense than romance. While I would have enjoyed more romantic moments between Amelia and Gideon, the well-crafted mystery and fascinating paranormal elements make this a satisfying end to the Lost Night Files.

THE STORY: This book, the third and final in the series, follows Amelia Rivers, a member of the Lost Night Files podcast team, as she investigates a mysterious stalker who may be connected to her own haunting past. The story intertwines supernatural elements with romantic suspense, centered around a night of missing memories and unexplained phenomena.

Three years ago, Amelia Rivers and her two friends, Pallas Llewellyn, and Talia March, were lured to the Lucent Springs Hotel under the false premise of job opportunities related to its remodeling. That night changed their lives forever – they lost all memory of what transpired and emerged with paranormal abilities. This shared experience led them to form the Lost Night Files podcast, through which they discovered others with similar stories: some gained enhanced abilities, while others were driven to madness.

Amelia’s particular gift allows her to perceive the night world in a landscape of colors and auras, which she captures through vintage photography equipment. When she becomes aware of a stalker, she uses her ability to photograph their aura before seeking help from private investigator Gideon Sweetwater.

Though skeptical of Amelia’s claims and unsure whether she’s paranoid or running a con, Gideon accepts the case.

OPINION: This final installment of The Lost Night Files trilogy was enjoyable. The book leans heavily into the suspense elements, which might be a slight adjustment for readers who, like me, typically prefer a stronger focus on romance. However, the story is so well-crafted that this didn’t significantly impact my enjoyment.

What really works in this book is how the paranormal elements are woven into both the characters’ personal development and the overall mystery. Amelia’s supernatural abilities with auras and photography give her character interesting quirks, while Gideon’s struggles with his nightmarish dreamscapes add depth to his personality. Like in other books by Krentz featuring paranormal talents, these abilities create an engaging energy that elevates the story beyond a standard suspense novel.

The relationship between Amelia and Gideon develops at a faster pace than in the previous books, and while their chemistry is genuine, the romantic moments are somewhat sparse. They spend most of the book working together to solve the mystery of Amelia’s stalker, which gives their relationship a strong partnership feel. Their mutual acceptance of each other’s paranormal abilities helps build their connection, even if the romantic elements sometimes take a backseat to the action.

The suspense storyline is particularly strong in this installment. The twists and turns are well-plotted and make perfect sense within the story’s framework. Everything connects logically, with the foundation for each revelation carefully laid throughout the narrative. The return to Lucent Springs Hotel adds an extra layer of tension that keeps the pages turning.

As the conclusion to the trilogy, the book does an excellent job of bringing all the plot threads together while maintaining the high stakes established in the earlier books. While I would have enjoyed more romantic scenes between Amelia and Gideon, their relationship still feels authentic and satisfying. The paranormal aspects of the story continue to fascinate, giving both characters interesting challenges to overcome together.

WORTH MENTIONING: Plenty of Easter Eggs for longtime Krentz/Quick/Castle readers. It does not distract new readers, who probably will not even realize that there are references at all.

CONNECTED BOOKS: SHATTERING DAWN is the third book in the Lost Night Files series. The romance is self-contained, and while there is an overarching storyline, a reader could easily catch up and enjoy this as a standalone.

STAR RATING: I give this book 4.5 stars.

NOTE: I received an eARC of this book via Netgalley so that I could prepare this review before the release date. I was not required to write a review or to write a positive review. All opinions contained herein are my own.

four-half-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

Review: Portrait in Death

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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: Purity in Death

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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

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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