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Sharyn Howard Mystery #1
Last Dance
When the local prom queen is found murdered in the high school parking lot, Sheriff Sharyn Howard gets a double shock. The crime scene, complete with the victim laid out in pristine fashion, is eerily similar to another prom-night murder that occurred ten years before. Sharyn's father was sheriff at the time and caught the perp, who's now on death row awaiting his execution—just days away.
Is there a copycat killer on the loose or is an innocent man about to die for the crime? Facing pressure from her mother not to destroy her late father's reputation, Sharyn looks into both murders. Soon she has proof that the real killer was never caught. Now she must race against the clock to stop an execution and catch a killer, before more innocent blood is spilled.
Is there a copycat killer on the loose or is an innocent man about to die for the crime? Facing pressure from her mother not to destroy her late father's reputation, Sharyn looks into both murders. Soon she has proof that the real killer was never caught. Now she must race against the clock to stop an execution and catch a killer, before more innocent blood is spilled.
252 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1999
20 people are currently reading
270 people want to read
About the author
Joyce Lavene
78 books646 followersaka Elyssa Henry and Joye Ames, J.J. Cook, and Ellie Grant
Joyce Lavene and Jim Lavene are a wife and husband team who have written and published more than 70 books since 1999. They live in North Carolina with their family and enjoy cooking, photography and ghost hunting.
Joyce Lavene and Jim Lavene are a wife and husband team who have written and published more than 70 books since 1999. They live in North Carolina with their family and enjoy cooking, photography and ghost hunting.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
November 18, 2015
Last Dance by Joyce & Jim Lavene.
Sheriff Sharyn Howard of Diamond Springs is working hard not only in upholding the law and protecting the innocent but in building a respect with her fellow officers...in particular Nick. Sheriff Howard comes from a line of Sheriff's her grandfather being the first followed by her Dad. However they were men of honor ...she had a ways to go before she earned the same amount of respect from everyone in Diamond Springs.
It was prom night and after everyone had left the dance and clean up was completed a body was found in the parking lot. There was something about this murder scene that rang familiar to Sheriff Howard. Could she face up to the cost of that familiarity?
I enjoyed this book from the first page. Easy reading with interesting and realistic characters as well as their relationships. The ending was not a surprise for me.
Sheriff Sharyn Howard of Diamond Springs is working hard not only in upholding the law and protecting the innocent but in building a respect with her fellow officers...in particular Nick. Sheriff Howard comes from a line of Sheriff's her grandfather being the first followed by her Dad. However they were men of honor ...she had a ways to go before she earned the same amount of respect from everyone in Diamond Springs.
It was prom night and after everyone had left the dance and clean up was completed a body was found in the parking lot. There was something about this murder scene that rang familiar to Sheriff Howard. Could she face up to the cost of that familiarity?
I enjoyed this book from the first page. Easy reading with interesting and realistic characters as well as their relationships. The ending was not a surprise for me.
December 23, 2012
Quick book to read, I finished it in less than a day. This is the first book in a series with the protagonist being a female Sheriff (Sharyn Howard). Sharyn runs for Sheriff after her sheriff father is killed. She has been on the job for a while before this story starts.
This mystery is interesting but as soon as a particular character was introduced I knew who the murderer was. So then I had to wait on Sheriff Sharyn to figure it out.
There was a major contradiction in the story that bothered me but overall the book was good. I will continue reading this series.
This mystery is interesting but as soon as a particular character was introduced I knew who the murderer was. So then I had to wait on Sheriff Sharyn to figure it out.
There was a major contradiction in the story that bothered me but overall the book was good. I will continue reading this series.
January 6, 2016
I really enjoyed this book. It grabbed my interest right away and it was a quick read for me. I was a little disappointed that I figured out who the murderer was, although I wasn't sure. It didn't detract from my enjoyment of the book. I am looking forward to reading more.
January 17, 2016
The Last Dance written by Joyce and Jim Lavene, is being re-released. This is the 1st book in the Sharyn Howard series, which also is the 1st cozy mystery series that the Lavenes had written in the early 2000s. There are 11 more books to follow in the series. I first read parts of the series, but never the whole thing, so I am super happy to get the chance to read all the books.
When fairly new sheriff, Sharyn Howard, is called to investigate the murder of pretty prom goer Carrie Sommers, high school senior, Sharyn is taken back. Back to the day of her own prom and the murder of another high school senior, Leila Bentley. Sharyn knows that the murders are almost identical, but who was in the area each time, and hadn't someone been arrested for Leila's murder? Wasn't he arrested, tried and due to die soon?
As always I am amazed by the Lavenes. How two people have such fertile minds, was it by chance that they were brought together, or was it all part of the master plan? Whatever it was, I'm glad it happened, but I do think that it was this series and these authors who led to my addiction to cozy mysteries. I'm very happy to say that no intervention will be needed.
FTC Full Disclosure - A copy of this book was sent to me by the author in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.
When fairly new sheriff, Sharyn Howard, is called to investigate the murder of pretty prom goer Carrie Sommers, high school senior, Sharyn is taken back. Back to the day of her own prom and the murder of another high school senior, Leila Bentley. Sharyn knows that the murders are almost identical, but who was in the area each time, and hadn't someone been arrested for Leila's murder? Wasn't he arrested, tried and due to die soon?
As always I am amazed by the Lavenes. How two people have such fertile minds, was it by chance that they were brought together, or was it all part of the master plan? Whatever it was, I'm glad it happened, but I do think that it was this series and these authors who led to my addiction to cozy mysteries. I'm very happy to say that no intervention will be needed.
FTC Full Disclosure - A copy of this book was sent to me by the author in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.
January 11, 2016
Sharon Howard takes over being Sheriff of Diamond Springs, a position held by her father and grandfather. When a student is found dead in the school parking lot the morning after the prom, the Sheriff cannot help but notice similarities to a case from 10 years ago when her father was Sheriff.
Throughout the investigation Sharon cannot shake the feeling that they are missing things and things just don't add up. Against everybody's advice, she reopens the 10 year old case of Leila Bentley's death even though a man is on death row charged with her murder. With the help of the coroner, Nick, they convince the others that it is worth looking into. Even when they pick up an employee from the school for the murder of Carrie Sommers, the Sheriff is still not convinced.
You will LOVE this book, The story is well written and captivates you as soon as you begin reading it. You will keep like you are a resident of Diamond Springs who wants justice for the 2 murders.
Throughout the investigation Sharon cannot shake the feeling that they are missing things and things just don't add up. Against everybody's advice, she reopens the 10 year old case of Leila Bentley's death even though a man is on death row charged with her murder. With the help of the coroner, Nick, they convince the others that it is worth looking into. Even when they pick up an employee from the school for the murder of Carrie Sommers, the Sheriff is still not convinced.
You will LOVE this book, The story is well written and captivates you as soon as you begin reading it. You will keep like you are a resident of Diamond Springs who wants justice for the 2 murders.
January 9, 2016
This was the first book ever published by this prolific writing duo, which is now being re-released for any readers who may have missed it at the time. While it is not, in my opinion, as strongly written as the more recent books, it is still a very good story.
Sharyn Howard is a very strong female character, which is always a plus for me. While she is concerned about reopening a case her father considered solved, she knows that it is more important for justice to be served.
My only real problem with this book was that I solved the mystery and knew the identity of the murderer midway through, and had to go through several more chapters feeling frustrated with Sharyn for NOT figuring it out.
**I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.**
Sharyn Howard is a very strong female character, which is always a plus for me. While she is concerned about reopening a case her father considered solved, she knows that it is more important for justice to be served.
My only real problem with this book was that I solved the mystery and knew the identity of the murderer midway through, and had to go through several more chapters feeling frustrated with Sharyn for NOT figuring it out.
**I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.**
January 6, 2016
Sheriff Sharyn Howard gets a huge shock when the local prom queen is found murdered in the high school parking lot. The girl is laid out exactly like another murdered girl was 10 yrs earlier. But, her father caught the murderer of that young lady......or did he?
I really enjoyed this book and I'm looking forward to reading the next one. Sharyn is a very likable character and I'm looking forward to reading more about how her story is going to progress. I kind of had a feeling who the murderer was but, I wasn't quite sure till the end. So happy I got a chance to read it cause it is such a great read!
I really enjoyed this book and I'm looking forward to reading the next one. Sharyn is a very likable character and I'm looking forward to reading more about how her story is going to progress. I kind of had a feeling who the murderer was but, I wasn't quite sure till the end. So happy I got a chance to read it cause it is such a great read!
January 9, 2016
I can see why the Sharyn Howard mysteries are being re-released. Last Dance, the first book in the series, was such a great read I couldn't stop reading it until I was done. Like all wonderful books, I was sad to have finished it so quickly, but am happy that the other books in the series are being re-released as well. I loved Sheriff Howard and can't wait to read what is next for her, Nick, and the other characters.
January 13, 2016
Loved it! It had me turning pages! I liked Sharyn! The writing was cool! The plot got me hooked from the beginning. And I was very happy when my guess who could have murdered Carrie Sommers and may also be the murder that happened ten years ago.
Enjoyed the book very much and am excited to read rest of the series! Got the book in exchange of an honest review.
Enjoyed the book very much and am excited to read rest of the series! Got the book in exchange of an honest review.
February 4, 2021
The Sharyn Howard Mysteries are wonderful. I wish Jim Lavene would continue the series he and his wife wrote. She was a wonderful author. While the guilty person in the story was pretty easy to figure out, the intrigue kept me glued to the pages. It did not require the fluff so many others feel they must add, to be a good book. I've read others in this series as I found them, and just can't get my fill.
November 28, 2017
I would have given this a higher rating if it hadn't been so obvious who the killer was. Fast read. Likable characters. Looking forward to the next book--to see how the characters and their relationships with each other develop.
July 11, 2019
I had enjoyed "Last One Down" (Sharyn Howard 10) and decided to read the series in order.
What a disappointment! Last Dance has a paltry plot and badly written characters. It's short, though.
If you like Sharyn Howard, skip this one.
What a disappointment! Last Dance has a paltry plot and badly written characters. It's short, though.
If you like Sharyn Howard, skip this one.
July 25, 2020
Good, fast paced, and enjoyable. However, the killer was not a surprise. As soon as the character was introduced I knew it was going to be him. I really liked Sharyn and Ernie; they have a great partnership and I am glad that she has at least one person on her team who genuinely respects and likes her. Joe and Ed still have a ways to go. As for Nick, I think his reason for not getting along with her is less because she's a woman and more because she's a woman he's interested in who happens to kinda sorta be his boss. But, we will see as the series progresses. I will definitely be reading from from this series. Also, it was really sweet that all of her deputies and Nick showed up at reunion to support her. Lastly, I can't figure out why she still lives with her mother; shes 28! I hope future books will see her getting a home of her own and some independence.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 25, 2021
I really liked this book!!! I honestly was iffy about reading it but the story was great! I figured out early who done it but it didn’t ruin anything and the epilogue was perfection!!! I recommend this read!!!!
October 12, 2017
I liked the characters and the story, but I did find the mystery predictable.
It was a good set-up for an ongoing series, though.
It was a good set-up for an ongoing series, though.
April 3, 2020
Enjoyable read
Well developed characters, good story line. Light reading and I would recommend it for a summer mystery reader. It was enjoyable.
Well developed characters, good story line. Light reading and I would recommend it for a summer mystery reader. It was enjoyable.
April 5, 2016
Last Dance is the first book in the Sharyn Howard Mystery series by Joyce Lavene Jim Lavene. This was the first book ever published by this dynamic team which launched their creative, highly productive careers in 1999. It has been re-released for the cozy mystery readers who may have missed it at the time. I am a fan of Jim and Joyce Lavene books and delighted that I’ve now been able to “start at the beginning” of their mystery book career! Each book is unique and you never know what to expect. This book is definitely different than any of the other books that I have read that were penned by this amazing team. After reading this book I can see why the Sharyn Howard mysteries is being re-released.
Last Dance is set in the small town of Diamond Springs, N.C. Sheriff Sharyn Howard comes from a line of Sheriff's following her Grandfather and Dad. Some the challenges she confronts include earning the respect of her fellow officers and the citizens of Diamond Springs.
It is prom night in Diamond Springs and after the last dance, when the cleanup was completed, a body was found in the parking lot. Sheriff Howard quickly recognizes similarities to a case from when her father was Sheriff approximately 10 years ago. Her intuition tells her all of the information gathered just doesn’t add up. Something significant is missing. In the interest of justice, she reopens a 10-year-old case; that of Leila Bentley's death (even though the man charged with her murder is on death row). With the help of Nick, the coroner, she convinces others that it is worth exploring. As I read, I wanted justice for the victim and justice for a man wrongfully convicted 10 years prior. Sheriff Howard is determined to find the real killer before he/she strikes again. If you are looking for a great mystery that is difficult to set down, then this is a must read book.
In my opinion, this is a very good story, although it doesn’t have the strong character development or as tightly woven or suspenseful plot characteristic of the Lavene’s more recently written and published series/books. That stated, I did really enjoy this book and I'm looking forward to reading the next one in the series. I’m positive the other books in this series will demonstrate the character development and strong plots I’ve come to love. I’m giving this a 4-star rating as, overall, I really enjoyed this book. I’m definitely be looking forward reading more of the adventures of Sheriff Sharyn Howard, Nick, and the other characters. This is a quick, good book to read on a snowy evening.
Full Disclosure – A Kindle copy of this book was given to me by the author in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Last Dance is set in the small town of Diamond Springs, N.C. Sheriff Sharyn Howard comes from a line of Sheriff's following her Grandfather and Dad. Some the challenges she confronts include earning the respect of her fellow officers and the citizens of Diamond Springs.
It is prom night in Diamond Springs and after the last dance, when the cleanup was completed, a body was found in the parking lot. Sheriff Howard quickly recognizes similarities to a case from when her father was Sheriff approximately 10 years ago. Her intuition tells her all of the information gathered just doesn’t add up. Something significant is missing. In the interest of justice, she reopens a 10-year-old case; that of Leila Bentley's death (even though the man charged with her murder is on death row). With the help of Nick, the coroner, she convinces others that it is worth exploring. As I read, I wanted justice for the victim and justice for a man wrongfully convicted 10 years prior. Sheriff Howard is determined to find the real killer before he/she strikes again. If you are looking for a great mystery that is difficult to set down, then this is a must read book.
In my opinion, this is a very good story, although it doesn’t have the strong character development or as tightly woven or suspenseful plot characteristic of the Lavene’s more recently written and published series/books. That stated, I did really enjoy this book and I'm looking forward to reading the next one in the series. I’m positive the other books in this series will demonstrate the character development and strong plots I’ve come to love. I’m giving this a 4-star rating as, overall, I really enjoyed this book. I’m definitely be looking forward reading more of the adventures of Sheriff Sharyn Howard, Nick, and the other characters. This is a quick, good book to read on a snowy evening.
Full Disclosure – A Kindle copy of this book was given to me by the author in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 5, 2016
Last Dance is the first book in the Sharyn Howard Mystery series by Joyce Lavene Jim Lavene. This was the first book ever published by this dynamic team which launched their creative, highly productive careers in 1999. It has been re-released for the cozy mystery readers who may have missed it at the time. I am a fan of Jim and Joyce Lavene books and delighted that I’ve now been able to “start at the beginning” of their mystery book career! Each book is novel and you never know what to expect. This book is definitely different than any of the other books that I have read that were penned by this amazing team. After reading this book I can see why the Sharyn Howard mysteries is being re-released.
Last Dance is set in the small town of Diamond Springs, N.C. Sheriff Sharyn Howard comes from a line of Sheriff's following her Grandfather and Dad. Some the challenges she confronts include earning the respect of her fellow officers and the citizens of Diamond Springs.
It is prom night in Diamond Springs and after the last dance, when the cleanup was completed, a body was found in the parking lot. Sheriff Howard quickly recognizes similarities to a case from when her father was Sheriff approximately 10 years ago. Her intuition tells her all of the information gathered just doesn’t add up. Something significant is missing. In the interest of justice, she reopens a 10-year-old case; that of Leila Bentley's death (even though the man charged with her murder is on death row). With the help of Nick, the coroner, she convinces others that it is worth exploring. As I read, I wanted justice for the victim and justice for a man wrongfully convicted 10 years prior. Sheriff Howard is determined to find the real killer before he/she strikes again. If you are looking for a great mystery that is difficult to set down, then this is a must read book.
In my opinion, this is a very good story, although it doesn’t have the strong character development or as tightly woven or suspenseful plot characteristic of the Lavene’s more recently written and published series/books. That stated, I did really enjoy this book and I'm looking forward to reading the next one in the series. I’m positive the other books in this series will demonstrate the character development and strong plots I’ve come to love. I’m giving this a 4-star rating as, overall, I really enjoyed this book. I’m definitely be looking forward reading more of the adventures of Sheriff Sharyn Howard, Nick, and the other characters. This is a quick, good book to read on a snowy evening.
Last Dance is set in the small town of Diamond Springs, N.C. Sheriff Sharyn Howard comes from a line of Sheriff's following her Grandfather and Dad. Some the challenges she confronts include earning the respect of her fellow officers and the citizens of Diamond Springs.
It is prom night in Diamond Springs and after the last dance, when the cleanup was completed, a body was found in the parking lot. Sheriff Howard quickly recognizes similarities to a case from when her father was Sheriff approximately 10 years ago. Her intuition tells her all of the information gathered just doesn’t add up. Something significant is missing. In the interest of justice, she reopens a 10-year-old case; that of Leila Bentley's death (even though the man charged with her murder is on death row). With the help of Nick, the coroner, she convinces others that it is worth exploring. As I read, I wanted justice for the victim and justice for a man wrongfully convicted 10 years prior. Sheriff Howard is determined to find the real killer before he/she strikes again. If you are looking for a great mystery that is difficult to set down, then this is a must read book.
In my opinion, this is a very good story, although it doesn’t have the strong character development or as tightly woven or suspenseful plot characteristic of the Lavene’s more recently written and published series/books. That stated, I did really enjoy this book and I'm looking forward to reading the next one in the series. I’m positive the other books in this series will demonstrate the character development and strong plots I’ve come to love. I’m giving this a 4-star rating as, overall, I really enjoyed this book. I’m definitely be looking forward reading more of the adventures of Sheriff Sharyn Howard, Nick, and the other characters. This is a quick, good book to read on a snowy evening.
January 19, 2016
Sharyn Howard has big shoes to fill, her father’s and grandfather’s to be precise, as the first female sheriff in the small North Carolina town of Diamond Springs. When she is called to the scene of a homicide, she cannot help but feel déjà vu. High school student Carrie Sommers was killed and laid out in the school parking lot after prom…just like Sharyn’s classmate Leila Bentley was ten years ago. Sharyn cannot help but think the two crimes were committed by the same person. But, if that is indeed the case, then Sharyn’s father put the wrong man on death row. She stands to make a lot of people in town, some powerful people, including her mother, quite angry and may lose her elected position because of it. She finds unlikely support in the coroner Nick, who up until now has been a nemesis of sorts.
Last Dance is a rerelease of the first mystery written by Joyce and Jim Lavene, and it is sure to please fans of the writing duo. The premise of the story is good, and it got off to a great start. Sharyn is likable and a strong protagonist. Nick is also likeable despite his unpleasant attitude toward Sharyn, an attitude that is never explained (maybe it is forthcoming in the next book). The crime is interesting, but my problem is with the perpetrator. As soon as he/she was mentioned the first time, I knew he/she did it. It was a little disappointing to figure it out so early in the tale and frustrating at times waiting for Sharyn to catch on.
This is a quick, cozy read. Overall, I liked it and look forward to Sharyn’s next adventure.
**I received an advance copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. This did not influence my opinions in any way.**
Last Dance is a rerelease of the first mystery written by Joyce and Jim Lavene, and it is sure to please fans of the writing duo. The premise of the story is good, and it got off to a great start. Sharyn is likable and a strong protagonist. Nick is also likeable despite his unpleasant attitude toward Sharyn, an attitude that is never explained (maybe it is forthcoming in the next book). The crime is interesting, but my problem is with the perpetrator. As soon as he/she was mentioned the first time, I knew he/she did it. It was a little disappointing to figure it out so early in the tale and frustrating at times waiting for Sharyn to catch on.
This is a quick, cozy read. Overall, I liked it and look forward to Sharyn’s next adventure.
**I received an advance copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. This did not influence my opinions in any way.**
January 25, 2016
As far as I know, this was the first Joyce Lavene book I've read, and it sure won't be the last--not in this series and not with her other books and series, either.
In this book, the first in the series, Sharyn Howard is the sheriff of a small town, and the first female sheriff. Her dad and grandfather were sheriffs in the town before her, and she wants the same career. Then a senior girl is murdered on prom night, and the circumstances remind Sharyn too much of another case ten years ago, also on prom night, when another blonde, pretty senior girl was murdered. Only the man sentenced to die for the first murder is awaiting his execution in a few days in prison. Could this be a copycat killer--who waited ten years? Sheriff Howard doesn't think so.
Even though her father brought in that man as the killer, Sharyn now thinks the real killer is still out there, free and maybe planning his next murder, while the convicted man may be going to an undeserved death. Now she is scrambling hard to find not only the answers to the current murder, but what really happened ten years ago, and what connections it has to this crime before an even worse injustice can be done than the loss of ten years of a man's life for a murder he didn't commit.
The best part of this book is the interaction between Sharyn Howard and her staff, witnesses, and members of the community at large as she works to find the killer. Joyce Lavene has an easy to read style that makes the reading fly, and I am eager to read not only the next book in this series, but most of the rest of her series as well (and she's got some doozies!). I certainly recommend this book to mystery lovers everywhere and suggest they do some exploring in those other series, as well.
In this book, the first in the series, Sharyn Howard is the sheriff of a small town, and the first female sheriff. Her dad and grandfather were sheriffs in the town before her, and she wants the same career. Then a senior girl is murdered on prom night, and the circumstances remind Sharyn too much of another case ten years ago, also on prom night, when another blonde, pretty senior girl was murdered. Only the man sentenced to die for the first murder is awaiting his execution in a few days in prison. Could this be a copycat killer--who waited ten years? Sheriff Howard doesn't think so.
Even though her father brought in that man as the killer, Sharyn now thinks the real killer is still out there, free and maybe planning his next murder, while the convicted man may be going to an undeserved death. Now she is scrambling hard to find not only the answers to the current murder, but what really happened ten years ago, and what connections it has to this crime before an even worse injustice can be done than the loss of ten years of a man's life for a murder he didn't commit.
The best part of this book is the interaction between Sharyn Howard and her staff, witnesses, and members of the community at large as she works to find the killer. Joyce Lavene has an easy to read style that makes the reading fly, and I am eager to read not only the next book in this series, but most of the rest of her series as well (and she's got some doozies!). I certainly recommend this book to mystery lovers everywhere and suggest they do some exploring in those other series, as well.
January 15, 2016
Last Dance
Joyce and Jim Lavene
Last Dance, is the first in the Sharyn Howard Mysteries. Although this series has been published prior, due to high demand from fans of Joyce and Jim it has been re-released. Sheriff Sharyn Howard has been elected to the office of Sheriff of Diamond Springs, North Carolina. This is a position that was held by her father and grandfather. It hasn’t been easy paths for Sheriff Howard due to many of the deputies aren’t sure how they feel about a woman sheriff as their boss. This means Sheriff Howard has to prove herself not just to the community but also to her own department. When the death of a popular senior student takes place at the end of the prom, Sheriff Howard is called to the scene. The similarities of this death cause Sheriff Howard to recall the death of another popular student, ten years prior. Both cases share many of the same clues and this sends red flags to Sharyn that the man who was found guilty and on death row in prison may not be guilty after all. When she makes a determination to re-open the previous case it causes a riff not just with the community but also with her own mother. You will not want to put this book down until you find out who is guilty.
Joyce and Jim Lavene
Last Dance, is the first in the Sharyn Howard Mysteries. Although this series has been published prior, due to high demand from fans of Joyce and Jim it has been re-released. Sheriff Sharyn Howard has been elected to the office of Sheriff of Diamond Springs, North Carolina. This is a position that was held by her father and grandfather. It hasn’t been easy paths for Sheriff Howard due to many of the deputies aren’t sure how they feel about a woman sheriff as their boss. This means Sheriff Howard has to prove herself not just to the community but also to her own department. When the death of a popular senior student takes place at the end of the prom, Sheriff Howard is called to the scene. The similarities of this death cause Sheriff Howard to recall the death of another popular student, ten years prior. Both cases share many of the same clues and this sends red flags to Sharyn that the man who was found guilty and on death row in prison may not be guilty after all. When she makes a determination to re-open the previous case it causes a riff not just with the community but also with her own mother. You will not want to put this book down until you find out who is guilty.
January 12, 2016
This is the recently re-released first book in the Sharyn Howard series written by Joyce and Jim Lavene. Last Dance has a well-developed plot and a great cast of relatable characters. I really enjoyed reading this page-turner. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good, clean mystery. Last Dance drew me into the mystery and held my interest until the ending. I’m looking forward to reading more books in this series.
The story is set in Diamond Springs and the main character is Sheriff Sharyn Howard, who is following in her grandfather and father’s footsteps. A murder takes place in the high school’s parking lot on prom night and the details are extremely similar to a murder that took place in this small town on prom night ten years ago that her father investigated. The investigation of the murder of Carrie Sommers leads Sharyn to believe these two murders are too similar to be coincidental and that the same person committed both even though a man is on death row for the murder of Leila Bentley. Almost everyone is upset when she moves to reopen the first murder case.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The story is set in Diamond Springs and the main character is Sheriff Sharyn Howard, who is following in her grandfather and father’s footsteps. A murder takes place in the high school’s parking lot on prom night and the details are extremely similar to a murder that took place in this small town on prom night ten years ago that her father investigated. The investigation of the murder of Carrie Sommers leads Sharyn to believe these two murders are too similar to be coincidental and that the same person committed both even though a man is on death row for the murder of Leila Bentley. Almost everyone is upset when she moves to reopen the first murder case.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 11, 2016
Sheriff Sharyn Howard is newly elected to her office. She knows that following in her father and grandfather's footsteps will be hard, but she's determined to do her best. When a beautiful young girl is found murdered in the school parking lot after prom, Sharyn feels the pressure. She's struck by the similarity to a murder that happened ten years ago. As she cautiously investigates, tension builds. She thinks the wrong man was convicted of the first crime. Her father had made the arrest. What should she do? Sharyn is a intelligent and feisty woman. She won't stop until she finds the truth. She can't let an innocent man be put to death. I found her to be a compelling character. I liked her and her strength. Diamond Springs is a small town where people feel safe. It was the perfect backdrop for this mystery. The secondary characters were interesting and added to the drama. This story pulled me right in. I wanted justice for the victim. I hope to see more of Sheriff Howard. She is a great character.
January 7, 2016
I have always been of fan of Jim and Joyce Lavene books! Each book is unique and you never know what to expect. This book is definitely different than any book I have ever read by them. There are no supernatural entities and quirky characters. That being said I was totally blown away by this book. I was expecting something different but was amazed at the talent these two authors possess! This book takes place in a small town that has been rocked by two murders in the past ten years. The sheriff seems to think the two cases are related but is she willing and brave enough to stir up a hornets nest since the original sheriff who solved the first case was her own father! This could mean that proving herself right means her father convicted an innocent man! I really enjoyed this book and can't wait to read the next in this series! I was giving this book for a fair and honest review! I highly recommend this book and don't forget to check out their other series you won't be disappointed!
May 28, 2016
Last Dance (A Sharyn Howard Mystery Book 1) By Joyce & Jim Lavene
The Prom Queen is found murdered and Sheriff Sharyn Howard is investigating. She recalls a similar murder ten years prior, and her father was Sherffi at the time, and a man was convicted and sent to prison. But she wonders if the wrong man is behind bars. There are a lot of similarities between the two murders. As she begins to investigate further she decides to re-open the ten year old murder case, which causes an uproar in the community and in her family.
A fast paced murder/mystery. The plot moves at a rapid pace with originality, suspense and Drama. Sharyn is very likable, she is put in an awkward situation having to question her (late) Fathers thinking on the old case. Overall I found Last Dance to be an enjoyable fun read.
The Prom Queen is found murdered and Sheriff Sharyn Howard is investigating. She recalls a similar murder ten years prior, and her father was Sherffi at the time, and a man was convicted and sent to prison. But she wonders if the wrong man is behind bars. There are a lot of similarities between the two murders. As she begins to investigate further she decides to re-open the ten year old murder case, which causes an uproar in the community and in her family.
A fast paced murder/mystery. The plot moves at a rapid pace with originality, suspense and Drama. Sharyn is very likable, she is put in an awkward situation having to question her (late) Fathers thinking on the old case. Overall I found Last Dance to be an enjoyable fun read.
January 9, 2016
Loved It!
Sharyn Howard is the Sheriff of Diamond Springs. When the prom queen is found murdered in the parking lot after the prom, Sharyn is reminded of another murder that happened ten years when her father was the sheriff of Diamond Springs. The further she looks into the current case and how similar the murders are to each other; she is convinced that the man who was accused of the murder ten years ago is innocent. She is determined to find the real killer before he strikes again. If you are looking for a great mystery that will keep you reading way past your bedtime, then you need to read this book. I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
A Review copy was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
Sharyn Howard is the Sheriff of Diamond Springs. When the prom queen is found murdered in the parking lot after the prom, Sharyn is reminded of another murder that happened ten years when her father was the sheriff of Diamond Springs. The further she looks into the current case and how similar the murders are to each other; she is convinced that the man who was accused of the murder ten years ago is innocent. She is determined to find the real killer before he strikes again. If you are looking for a great mystery that will keep you reading way past your bedtime, then you need to read this book. I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
A Review copy was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
January 11, 2016
This is the first book in the Sharyn Howard series. Sharyn is the sheriff in the small town of Diamond Springs, a position previously held by her father and grandfather. When she is called to the murder scene for a high schooler killed on prom night, she is struck by the similarity between this murder and one committed here in town ten years ago. But that can't be possible, because her father solved that case with the convicted murderer currently on death row. But voicing her concerns will bring unrest to the town and unpopularity with not only the higher-ups in the town, but also her own family. This is a great series with a strong female lead and good supporting players. These books were originally released years ago, but I am glad they are being rereleased so I can catch up on the series. Disclosure: I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 11, 2014
Since I don't normally write reviews unless I have something specific to say, here's the break down of how I rate my books...
1 star... This book was bad, so bad I may have given up and skipped to the end. I will avoid this author like the plague in the future.
2 stars... This book was not very good, and I won't be reading any more from the author.
3 stars... This book was ok, but I won't go out of my way to read more, But if I find another book by the author for under a dollar I'd pick it up.
4 stars... I really enjoyed this book and will definitely be on the look out to pick up more from the series/author.
5 stars... I loved this book! It had earned a permanent home in my collection and I'll be picking up the rest of the series and other books from the author ASAP.
January 12, 2016
This is a good book to while away the evening with and a quick read. The book kept me reading much later than I planned last evening. I enjoyed this book very much and it also kept my interest until the end. Sharyn Howard and her deputies, plus the small town of Diamond Springs were very believable. Sharyn is the sheriff of Diamond Springs. A murder takes place on Prom night. It is too much like a previous murder that took place 10 years previously. A lot of people are against her but she prevails! I really enjoyed it, from start to finish.
FTC Full Disclosure - A copy of this book was sent to me by the author in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.
FTC Full Disclosure - A copy of this book was sent to me by the author in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.
November 24, 2014
Carrie Sommers walked out into the parking lot, glad that the prom was over.
Sharyn Howard is the sheriff of Diamond Springs, North Carolina. The murder of a popular high school girl is eerily familiar to a murder ten years ago when her father was sheriff. Sharyn becomes rather unpopular in town when she halts the execution of the man sentenced for the first murder.
A good mystery that shows the tight community of a small town. The Lavene writing team does an excellent job of keeping your attention and drawing you into the story. I look forward to reading more in the series.
3 stars
Sharyn Howard is the sheriff of Diamond Springs, North Carolina. The murder of a popular high school girl is eerily familiar to a murder ten years ago when her father was sheriff. Sharyn becomes rather unpopular in town when she halts the execution of the man sentenced for the first murder.
A good mystery that shows the tight community of a small town. The Lavene writing team does an excellent job of keeping your attention and drawing you into the story. I look forward to reading more in the series.
3 stars
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