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Jessie Martin Series #3
The Empty Kayak
A KIRKUS REVIEW EDITORS SELECTION!
The third installment in the award-winning "Queen City Crimes Series".
For Detective Ebony Jones, crime is always personal. But this time, it strikes too close to home.
A pop-up thunderstorm marched its way across the Hudson River, ambushing a young couple’s kayaking trip. The woman miraculously made it back to shore, but her fiancé remains missing. Ebony and her partner are the first responders who rush to the river to assist in rescuing the capsized boater.
The victim’s identity shocks Ebony to the core. Kyle Emory, the ex-boyfriend of her estranged best friend, attorney Jessie Martin, is the man who never made it out of the water. The accident ignites a firestorm between the two friends, pitting them against each other in a race to discover whether Kyle survived or whether he met his untimely demise. Under pressure from the chief and the DA, Ebony needs to solve the mystery, while Jessie seeks justice for the sake of the daughter she shares with Kyle.
The investigation leads them through the dark worlds of social media, online sports betting, and extreme sports. Along the way, they uncover lies and betrayals, and gather a list of dangerous suspects who are all linked to the accident survivor, Kyle’s mysterious fiancée. Even more, the discovery that Kyle possessed his own life-shattering secrets has trapped Ebony between her career and her lifelong friendship with Jessie. Yet neither Ebony nor Jessie will stop until they unearth the truth. Even if it destroys their friendship and their lives.
But the evidence is as murky as the secretive Hudson River. Only the river knows whether Kyle’s untimely death was an accident, a suicide, or something more sinister.
PRAISE FOR THE EMPTY KAYAK
"Three strong women follow their own inexorable paths to justice in THE EMPTY KAYAK, and it's a pleasure to cheer them on. THE EMPTY KAYAK is not only a compelling and believable mystery, but a sharply drawn portrait of women's friendships."
--Joseph Finder, New York Times bestselling author of House on Fire
“Twisty personal relationships build to a satisfying, stunner finale in THE EMPTY KAYAK.”
--Lisa Black, New York Times bestselling author of the Locard Institute series
"Poignant in places, nail-biting in others, the tension and turmoil add up to some fine high-stakes suspense."
--Steve Berry, New York Times bestselling author of The Last Kingdom
“Impressive...An involving whodunit with strong characters who must find a way to work together.” Kirkus Reviews.
“In Jodé Millman’s propulsive thriller The Empty Kayak, a drowning investigation leads to legal wrangling. The prose is emotive and sensory...and in effect, the book doubles as a study of how women assume power, while also showing how such roles affect their lives and relationships.”
—Foreword Reviews
The third installment in the award-winning "Queen City Crimes Series".
For Detective Ebony Jones, crime is always personal. But this time, it strikes too close to home.
A pop-up thunderstorm marched its way across the Hudson River, ambushing a young couple’s kayaking trip. The woman miraculously made it back to shore, but her fiancé remains missing. Ebony and her partner are the first responders who rush to the river to assist in rescuing the capsized boater.
The victim’s identity shocks Ebony to the core. Kyle Emory, the ex-boyfriend of her estranged best friend, attorney Jessie Martin, is the man who never made it out of the water. The accident ignites a firestorm between the two friends, pitting them against each other in a race to discover whether Kyle survived or whether he met his untimely demise. Under pressure from the chief and the DA, Ebony needs to solve the mystery, while Jessie seeks justice for the sake of the daughter she shares with Kyle.
The investigation leads them through the dark worlds of social media, online sports betting, and extreme sports. Along the way, they uncover lies and betrayals, and gather a list of dangerous suspects who are all linked to the accident survivor, Kyle’s mysterious fiancée. Even more, the discovery that Kyle possessed his own life-shattering secrets has trapped Ebony between her career and her lifelong friendship with Jessie. Yet neither Ebony nor Jessie will stop until they unearth the truth. Even if it destroys their friendship and their lives.
But the evidence is as murky as the secretive Hudson River. Only the river knows whether Kyle’s untimely death was an accident, a suicide, or something more sinister.
PRAISE FOR THE EMPTY KAYAK
"Three strong women follow their own inexorable paths to justice in THE EMPTY KAYAK, and it's a pleasure to cheer them on. THE EMPTY KAYAK is not only a compelling and believable mystery, but a sharply drawn portrait of women's friendships."
--Joseph Finder, New York Times bestselling author of House on Fire
“Twisty personal relationships build to a satisfying, stunner finale in THE EMPTY KAYAK.”
--Lisa Black, New York Times bestselling author of the Locard Institute series
"Poignant in places, nail-biting in others, the tension and turmoil add up to some fine high-stakes suspense."
--Steve Berry, New York Times bestselling author of The Last Kingdom
“Impressive...An involving whodunit with strong characters who must find a way to work together.” Kirkus Reviews.
“In Jodé Millman’s propulsive thriller The Empty Kayak, a drowning investigation leads to legal wrangling. The prose is emotive and sensory...and in effect, the book doubles as a study of how women assume power, while also showing how such roles affect their lives and relationships.”
—Foreword Reviews
366 pages, Paperback
Published May 30, 2023
6 people are currently reading
3598 people want to read
About the author
Jodé Millman
5 books729 followersJode is a life-long resident of the beautiful Hudson Valley in New York State. After many years of practicing law, she semi-retired her briefcase to write.
Her award-winning debut thriller, THE MIDNIGHT CALL (2019) was the recipient of the 2020 BRONZE IPPY AWARD, 2020 AMERICAN Fiction Award for Legal Thriller, 2021 Independent Press Award, Finalist - 2021 Book Excellence Award, Finalist - 2020 Write Touch Readers Choice Awards, Finalist - 2020 National Readers Choice Award, Shortlist - 2019 CLUE AWARD. In 2014, THE MIDNIGHT CALL was designated as the "Best Police Procedural" by Chantireviews.com and was short-listed for the Clue Award.
Her second thriller, HOOKER AVENUE, was released in April 2022, and is a Finalist for the RWA/KOD Daphne Du Maurier Award for Excellence in Mystery/Suspense. It won the 2022 Independent Press Award, was a Finalist for the American Fiction Award and is a First Place in the Clue Awards.
Her third novel, THE EMPTY KAYAK is a First Place Winner of the 2023 Clue Award, and a Finalist for the Independent Press and Best Thriller Award.
These three mysteries compose THE QUEEN CITY CRIMES series, which received the First Place Award in the 2023 Clue Book Series Awards.
In addition to writing crime fiction, Jode loves reading a good mystery. She holds a Masters In English Literature, and has taught undergraduate and law school, where her classes combined her interests in Law and Literature.
She is a book reviewer for Booktrib.com and New York Journal of Books, a podcaster and creator of THE WRITERS LAW SCHOOL.
Her award-winning debut thriller, THE MIDNIGHT CALL (2019) was the recipient of the 2020 BRONZE IPPY AWARD, 2020 AMERICAN Fiction Award for Legal Thriller, 2021 Independent Press Award, Finalist - 2021 Book Excellence Award, Finalist - 2020 Write Touch Readers Choice Awards, Finalist - 2020 National Readers Choice Award, Shortlist - 2019 CLUE AWARD. In 2014, THE MIDNIGHT CALL was designated as the "Best Police Procedural" by Chantireviews.com and was short-listed for the Clue Award.
Her second thriller, HOOKER AVENUE, was released in April 2022, and is a Finalist for the RWA/KOD Daphne Du Maurier Award for Excellence in Mystery/Suspense. It won the 2022 Independent Press Award, was a Finalist for the American Fiction Award and is a First Place in the Clue Awards.
Her third novel, THE EMPTY KAYAK is a First Place Winner of the 2023 Clue Award, and a Finalist for the Independent Press and Best Thriller Award.
These three mysteries compose THE QUEEN CITY CRIMES series, which received the First Place Award in the 2023 Clue Book Series Awards.
In addition to writing crime fiction, Jode loves reading a good mystery. She holds a Masters In English Literature, and has taught undergraduate and law school, where her classes combined her interests in Law and Literature.
She is a book reviewer for Booktrib.com and New York Journal of Books, a podcaster and creator of THE WRITERS LAW SCHOOL.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
May 5, 2023
First and foremost, a large thank you to Reedsy Discovery and Jodé Millman for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
Jodé Millman is back with another thriller in her Queen City Crimes series, pulling on a unique case to pique the reader’s interest. There is much going on and when a young man goes missing, all his secrets come spilling out. An empty kayak is all that’s left, but Ebony Jones is not convinced that it was simply an accident. She will have to peel things back, working in an industry when women are still better seen than heard, and hope to get to the bottom of this mystery. Millman does well to craft a great story for the reader, peppering her own perspectives in throughout.
Ebony Jones is a dedicated detective who goes outside the bounds of her job to help those in need. When she and her partner are called to the scene of a missing kayaker in the Hudson River, there are a number of questions. How did a woman make it to shore during a flash thunderstorm and her fiancé remain missing? The more Detective Jones probes, the more questions emerge.
When the victim is identified as Kyle Emory, Detective Jones is shocked and concerned. Kyle was the ex-boyfriend of her best friend, Jessie Martin, a lawyer who takes no prisoners. As Detective Jones probes for answers, she must approach Jessie to see what she knows, which only opens up old wounds and creates chaos. Was Kyle swept out in the water, his body still unaccounted for, or did somewhat have a role in some foul play? Detective Jones asks and receives little in the form of open responses from her estranged friend, who is now stuck being a single parent to a young girl.
When Detective Jones follows the clues coming from Kyle Emory’s life, she finds herself in some very dark places, where many would never dare to tread. Betrayals and risky business prove to be central to the discoveries, but the question remains, how much did Jessie Martin know about the man with whom she was so close for a time? Ebony Jones is prepared to put it all on the line, including her friendship, to get answers and truths that no one seems ready to share. A great story that pulls the reader into the middle, proving that Jodé Millman is at the top of her game!
Having experienced reading the work of Jodé Millman, I knew what I would be facing, pleasantly so. Millman works through her story effectively and keeps the reader in the middle of it all. As with some mysteries, the perspectives prove useful to provide context and help enrich the larger story. Millman’s narrative pacing works in this piece, where all is slowly revealed for those who wonder. The characters tell their own story, as well as filling in the gaps of the victim, to offer a complete piece that is sure to impress most readers. Plot development is key, as there is nothing like trying to decipher what’s going on. Ebony Jones is not the most subservient character, so she needs to really stand out as the plot thickens and things get out of control. I have been impressed with Jodé Millman in the past and hope others discover her work soon, as it is a wonderful escape from some of the heavier reading I have been doing of late.
Kudos, Madam Millman, for an intense thriller that kept me guessing throughout.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
Jodé Millman is back with another thriller in her Queen City Crimes series, pulling on a unique case to pique the reader’s interest. There is much going on and when a young man goes missing, all his secrets come spilling out. An empty kayak is all that’s left, but Ebony Jones is not convinced that it was simply an accident. She will have to peel things back, working in an industry when women are still better seen than heard, and hope to get to the bottom of this mystery. Millman does well to craft a great story for the reader, peppering her own perspectives in throughout.
Ebony Jones is a dedicated detective who goes outside the bounds of her job to help those in need. When she and her partner are called to the scene of a missing kayaker in the Hudson River, there are a number of questions. How did a woman make it to shore during a flash thunderstorm and her fiancé remain missing? The more Detective Jones probes, the more questions emerge.
When the victim is identified as Kyle Emory, Detective Jones is shocked and concerned. Kyle was the ex-boyfriend of her best friend, Jessie Martin, a lawyer who takes no prisoners. As Detective Jones probes for answers, she must approach Jessie to see what she knows, which only opens up old wounds and creates chaos. Was Kyle swept out in the water, his body still unaccounted for, or did somewhat have a role in some foul play? Detective Jones asks and receives little in the form of open responses from her estranged friend, who is now stuck being a single parent to a young girl.
When Detective Jones follows the clues coming from Kyle Emory’s life, she finds herself in some very dark places, where many would never dare to tread. Betrayals and risky business prove to be central to the discoveries, but the question remains, how much did Jessie Martin know about the man with whom she was so close for a time? Ebony Jones is prepared to put it all on the line, including her friendship, to get answers and truths that no one seems ready to share. A great story that pulls the reader into the middle, proving that Jodé Millman is at the top of her game!
Having experienced reading the work of Jodé Millman, I knew what I would be facing, pleasantly so. Millman works through her story effectively and keeps the reader in the middle of it all. As with some mysteries, the perspectives prove useful to provide context and help enrich the larger story. Millman’s narrative pacing works in this piece, where all is slowly revealed for those who wonder. The characters tell their own story, as well as filling in the gaps of the victim, to offer a complete piece that is sure to impress most readers. Plot development is key, as there is nothing like trying to decipher what’s going on. Ebony Jones is not the most subservient character, so she needs to really stand out as the plot thickens and things get out of control. I have been impressed with Jodé Millman in the past and hope others discover her work soon, as it is a wonderful escape from some of the heavier reading I have been doing of late.
Kudos, Madam Millman, for an intense thriller that kept me guessing throughout.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
May 2, 2023
For Detective Ebony Jones, crime is always personal. But this time, it strikes too close to home.
A pop-up thunderstorm marched its way across the Hudson River, ambushing a young couple’s kayaking trip. The woman miraculously made it back to shore, but her fiancé remains missing. Ebony and her partner are the first responders who rush to the river to assist in rescuing the capsized boater.
The victim’s identity shocks Ebony to the core. Kyle Emory, the ex-boyfriend of her estranged best friend, attorney Jessie Martin, is the man who never made it out of the water. The accident ignites a firestorm between the two friends, pitting them against each other in a race to discover whether Kyle survived or whether he met his untimely demise. Under pressure from the chief and the DA, Ebony needs to solve the mystery, while Jessie seeks justice for the sake of the daughter she shares with Kyle.
The investigation leads them through the dark worlds of social media, online sports betting, and extreme sports. Along the way, they uncover lies and betrayals, and gather a list of dangerous suspects who are all linked to the accident survivor, Kyle’s mysterious fiancée. Even more, the discovery that Kyle possessed his own life-shattering secrets has trapped Ebony between her career and her lifelong friendship with Jessie. Yet neither Ebony nor Jessie will stop until they unearth the truth. Even if it destroys their friendship and their lives.
But the evidence is as murky as the secretive Hudson River. Only the river knows whether Kyle’s untimely death was an accident, a suicide, or something more sinister.
This was my first read by Jode Millman and certainly not my last. I am hooked. Well written and just sheer perfection. Will recommend to others.
A pop-up thunderstorm marched its way across the Hudson River, ambushing a young couple’s kayaking trip. The woman miraculously made it back to shore, but her fiancé remains missing. Ebony and her partner are the first responders who rush to the river to assist in rescuing the capsized boater.
The victim’s identity shocks Ebony to the core. Kyle Emory, the ex-boyfriend of her estranged best friend, attorney Jessie Martin, is the man who never made it out of the water. The accident ignites a firestorm between the two friends, pitting them against each other in a race to discover whether Kyle survived or whether he met his untimely demise. Under pressure from the chief and the DA, Ebony needs to solve the mystery, while Jessie seeks justice for the sake of the daughter she shares with Kyle.
The investigation leads them through the dark worlds of social media, online sports betting, and extreme sports. Along the way, they uncover lies and betrayals, and gather a list of dangerous suspects who are all linked to the accident survivor, Kyle’s mysterious fiancée. Even more, the discovery that Kyle possessed his own life-shattering secrets has trapped Ebony between her career and her lifelong friendship with Jessie. Yet neither Ebony nor Jessie will stop until they unearth the truth. Even if it destroys their friendship and their lives.
But the evidence is as murky as the secretive Hudson River. Only the river knows whether Kyle’s untimely death was an accident, a suicide, or something more sinister.
This was my first read by Jode Millman and certainly not my last. I am hooked. Well written and just sheer perfection. Will recommend to others.
June 24, 2023
I received an advance review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you Jodé Millman and Partners In Crime Tours. I had the privilege to read the first two books and jumped at the chance to continue with the series.
The Empty Kayak is the third in the Jessie Martin series and it keeps getting better! For Detective Ebony Jones, crime is always personal. But this time, it strikes too close to home.
A pop-up thunderstorm marched its way across the Hudson River, ambushing a young couple’s kayaking trip. The woman miraculously made it back to shore, but her fiancé remains missing. Ebony and her partner are the first responders who rush to the river to assist in rescuing the capsized boater.
Ebony is shocked to the core when she sees the victim is Kyle Emory. Kyle is the ex-boyfriend of her estranged best friend and attorney, Jessie Martin. The accident ignites a firestorm between the two friends, pitting them against one another, in their race to figure out if Kyle perished or survived. The pressure is high for both women as Ebony tries to solve the crime while Jessie seeks justice for the daughter she shares with Kyle.
This investigation takes the reader through the dark worlds of social media, online sports betting, and extreme sprots. Uncovering lies and betrayals while a dangerous list of suspects emerges who are connected to Kyle’s mysterious fiancée combined with Kyle’s own life shattering secrets will leave you sitting on the edge of your seat. Neither woman will back down even if it destroys their friendship not to mention their lives. As you might suspect, the evidence is as murky as the secretive Hudson River.
I am a HUGE fan of this author and will be anxiously awaiting the next installment. Jodé’s ability to weave together a complex story with multidimensional and deep characters is what I admire most. She tells stories that dig deep into the character’s emotions and what makes them tick while providing descriptions that make me feel like I am a part of the story. I like police procedures combined with the psychology of people and this book did not disappoint!
The Empty Kayak is the third in the Jessie Martin series and it keeps getting better! For Detective Ebony Jones, crime is always personal. But this time, it strikes too close to home.
A pop-up thunderstorm marched its way across the Hudson River, ambushing a young couple’s kayaking trip. The woman miraculously made it back to shore, but her fiancé remains missing. Ebony and her partner are the first responders who rush to the river to assist in rescuing the capsized boater.
Ebony is shocked to the core when she sees the victim is Kyle Emory. Kyle is the ex-boyfriend of her estranged best friend and attorney, Jessie Martin. The accident ignites a firestorm between the two friends, pitting them against one another, in their race to figure out if Kyle perished or survived. The pressure is high for both women as Ebony tries to solve the crime while Jessie seeks justice for the daughter she shares with Kyle.
This investigation takes the reader through the dark worlds of social media, online sports betting, and extreme sprots. Uncovering lies and betrayals while a dangerous list of suspects emerges who are connected to Kyle’s mysterious fiancée combined with Kyle’s own life shattering secrets will leave you sitting on the edge of your seat. Neither woman will back down even if it destroys their friendship not to mention their lives. As you might suspect, the evidence is as murky as the secretive Hudson River.
I am a HUGE fan of this author and will be anxiously awaiting the next installment. Jodé’s ability to weave together a complex story with multidimensional and deep characters is what I admire most. She tells stories that dig deep into the character’s emotions and what makes them tick while providing descriptions that make me feel like I am a part of the story. I like police procedures combined with the psychology of people and this book did not disappoint!
April 24, 2023
I enjoyed the police procedural aspects of the story and the overall mystery with multiple suspects. I know this is part of a series but it seemed the references to prior storylines were not necessary. Were they there to get me to go back and read those ... if so too much information, if not they weren't needed to build these characters. Overall enjoyed it and would read the next in the series.
May 20, 2023
Who doesn’t love a twisty mystery? Admittedly, I am a mystery fan though I know some readers do not like mysteries. In The Empty Kayak, Jode’ Millman provides readers with a page-turning mystery that begins with a drowning.
Ebony Jones, Poughkeepsie detective, discovers Lily, Jessie’s year-old daughter, at the scene of a drowning. Jessie and Ebony have been best friends for a long time. Shocked to see the child she knows so well in such a terrible situation, Ebony discovers nothing is as she imagined. The drowning victim is Kyle, Jessie’s ex, Lily’s father. What has happened and how did Lily escape death?
Besides being a mystery fan, I am also a fan of stories featuring strong women. The Empty Kayak does just that by telling the story through the eyes of Ebony, Jessie, and Cindie who is the district attorney. Each woman has her own reasons for being interested in the drowning and what is behind it.
Millman writes with precision. This description of Ebony during the search of the water for Kyle or his body illustrates how Millman captures the moment: “Ebony’s limbs were heavy, as though her body was being compressed into the rocky shore beneath her feet.” Later in the book, as the investigation progresses, another description of Ebony gives readers more insight: “Ebony’s own legs felt rubbery as they placed the woman in the back seat and locked the door.”
The story builds though the gathering of evidence, and the three women’s persistence in seeing the case through to the end. Readers will want to understand the conclusion, but they will also appreciate the friendships experienced in the story.
For book clubs, often, a mystery offers little in the way of discussion once the crime is solved. With The Empty Kayak, however, there are other issues besides the drowning and what is behind it. Members will have plenty to discuss about the connection found in the three women.
Ebony Jones, Poughkeepsie detective, discovers Lily, Jessie’s year-old daughter, at the scene of a drowning. Jessie and Ebony have been best friends for a long time. Shocked to see the child she knows so well in such a terrible situation, Ebony discovers nothing is as she imagined. The drowning victim is Kyle, Jessie’s ex, Lily’s father. What has happened and how did Lily escape death?
Besides being a mystery fan, I am also a fan of stories featuring strong women. The Empty Kayak does just that by telling the story through the eyes of Ebony, Jessie, and Cindie who is the district attorney. Each woman has her own reasons for being interested in the drowning and what is behind it.
Millman writes with precision. This description of Ebony during the search of the water for Kyle or his body illustrates how Millman captures the moment: “Ebony’s limbs were heavy, as though her body was being compressed into the rocky shore beneath her feet.” Later in the book, as the investigation progresses, another description of Ebony gives readers more insight: “Ebony’s own legs felt rubbery as they placed the woman in the back seat and locked the door.”
The story builds though the gathering of evidence, and the three women’s persistence in seeing the case through to the end. Readers will want to understand the conclusion, but they will also appreciate the friendships experienced in the story.
For book clubs, often, a mystery offers little in the way of discussion once the crime is solved. With The Empty Kayak, however, there are other issues besides the drowning and what is behind it. Members will have plenty to discuss about the connection found in the three women.
December 13, 2024
This mystery is part of a series, but can be read as a standalone book. Kyle and his fiance Olivia go out kayaking on the Hudson River, when an unexpected storm pops up. Olivia returns to shore, but Kyle doesn't.
As the detectives start looking into Olivia and her family, they begin to suspect that this might be more than a kayaking accident.
This book felt like it had a few pieces that just didn't quite fit together. It also felt a bit slow at times. While the author clearly thought through the story carefully, it lingered too much on some of the details for me.
This is an average mystery novel for me. Good story and well thought out, but a little slow.
I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
As the detectives start looking into Olivia and her family, they begin to suspect that this might be more than a kayaking accident.
This book felt like it had a few pieces that just didn't quite fit together. It also felt a bit slow at times. While the author clearly thought through the story carefully, it lingered too much on some of the details for me.
This is an average mystery novel for me. Good story and well thought out, but a little slow.
I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 28, 2023
MY THOUGHTS -
This book started out good and ended up great. A couple of spots got my heart racing. The last part of this book definitely outshined the first, and it was nonstop reading through the last fourth of the book. My heart was pounding as I read towards the end. I even had tears in my eyes at one point.
I love that this took place in upstate New York, my old stomping ground. We used to live just a few hours from where the setting is and we even had a cabin in the Adirondacks, not right where this took place but within a few hours. I had even visited Lake George a few times when I was younger. The book even talked about The Adirondack Paddle Fest and Outdoor Expo. which my husband and I went to once! I love when books take place somewhere real rather than a fictional town. I feel like I can relate more when I can look it up on a map.
A lot of police procedure and details in this book. So if you are into that kind of thing… It’s in there! But there’s also a lot of emotion, and feelings, and relationship development. I thought there was great character development. I loved Ebony, but especially loved Jessie and her ambition to keep going, not giving up with her own investigation even when it got tough and personal.
"We have a missing victim, a survivor, multiple witnesses, the weather, the unique location, the defective kayak, and the accident itself." ~ If this sounds like your kind of book, then this one is for you!
I voluntarily posted this review after receiving a copy of this book from Partners in Crime Tours - Thank You!!
This book started out good and ended up great. A couple of spots got my heart racing. The last part of this book definitely outshined the first, and it was nonstop reading through the last fourth of the book. My heart was pounding as I read towards the end. I even had tears in my eyes at one point.
I love that this took place in upstate New York, my old stomping ground. We used to live just a few hours from where the setting is and we even had a cabin in the Adirondacks, not right where this took place but within a few hours. I had even visited Lake George a few times when I was younger. The book even talked about The Adirondack Paddle Fest and Outdoor Expo. which my husband and I went to once! I love when books take place somewhere real rather than a fictional town. I feel like I can relate more when I can look it up on a map.
A lot of police procedure and details in this book. So if you are into that kind of thing… It’s in there! But there’s also a lot of emotion, and feelings, and relationship development. I thought there was great character development. I loved Ebony, but especially loved Jessie and her ambition to keep going, not giving up with her own investigation even when it got tough and personal.
"We have a missing victim, a survivor, multiple witnesses, the weather, the unique location, the defective kayak, and the accident itself." ~ If this sounds like your kind of book, then this one is for you!
I voluntarily posted this review after receiving a copy of this book from Partners in Crime Tours - Thank You!!
July 8, 2023
This well written story grabbed me from page one and kept going through the acknowledgements at the end! No laundry got done or dinner was made today. I can't wait to read her other stories! Great sense of place and deep characters and relationships. Suspense. Friendship. Legal twists and turns. Family dynamics. Lots to learn, too - without it being forced. I can only imagine the hours of research that went into book. So glad I won this on GoodReads and have been introduced to this incredible author!
April 27, 2023
The book is gripping and unputdownable. In the midst of young couple’s kayaking trip, thunderstorm marched its way across the Hudson River. And Olivia makes her way back to the shore but Kyle Emore remains missing. Perhaps the man was harbouring secrets. Detective Ebony is determined to find him but before that she is in dilemma that how will she tell Jessie about Kyle. Also the revelation of Olivia and Kyle’s engagement leaves her in such a shock. Later Olivia comes under suspicion when her secret gets unveiled. While Jessie is seeking justice and wished that Kyle comes back for his daughter. But only the Hudson river knows, if Kyle’s tragic death was an accident, suicide or well panned death. In the midst of lies, deception, betrayals, secrets and dangerous suspects, Jessie and Ebony are determined to solve the mystery of Kyle’s death.
I loved the investigation. Detective Ebony Jones has an extraordinary skills and Jessie herself did a great job at accessing information about Olivia. The description of River Hudson is so intriguing. The characters are so mysterious and secretive. I loved the ending. It was satisfying.
I loved the investigation. Detective Ebony Jones has an extraordinary skills and Jessie herself did a great job at accessing information about Olivia. The description of River Hudson is so intriguing. The characters are so mysterious and secretive. I loved the ending. It was satisfying.
June 23, 2023
This is not the first book in this series. While there are many references to events found in previous novels, it reads well on its own. The plot centers around answering the questions of whether the death was accidental or deliberate and, if deliberate, the identity of the villain. Millman did a good job of planting doubts so we cannot draw a conclusion early.
The characters are adequately developed. Jessie's intense feelings for her ex-boyfriend did not seem realistic, however. While he was the father of her daughter, Jessie says he betrayed and lied to her and was an ultimate scumbag. (807, 983/4899) He had been financially and parentally irresponsible. (443/4899)
There is more in the novel about personal lives than about the police investigative procedure. The police work was somewhat ineffective. That allowed Jessie to uncover facts the police seemed to overlook. She got phone records and uncovered other important documents before the police did. The evidence that ultimately solved the dilemma was mentioned early on and I kept wondering why the police had done nothing to pursue it.
The novel touches on several issues, from social media popularity to complicated marital and family relationships. The setting descriptions were done well. Millman's writing style is good and I will be looking for more from her.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book through Partners in Crime Book Tours. My comments are an independent and honest review.
The characters are adequately developed. Jessie's intense feelings for her ex-boyfriend did not seem realistic, however. While he was the father of her daughter, Jessie says he betrayed and lied to her and was an ultimate scumbag. (807, 983/4899) He had been financially and parentally irresponsible. (443/4899)
There is more in the novel about personal lives than about the police investigative procedure. The police work was somewhat ineffective. That allowed Jessie to uncover facts the police seemed to overlook. She got phone records and uncovered other important documents before the police did. The evidence that ultimately solved the dilemma was mentioned early on and I kept wondering why the police had done nothing to pursue it.
The novel touches on several issues, from social media popularity to complicated marital and family relationships. The setting descriptions were done well. Millman's writing style is good and I will be looking for more from her.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book through Partners in Crime Book Tours. My comments are an independent and honest review.
July 5, 2023
great story!
I downloaded Jodi’s book before my trip to the Baltic’s
I really enjoyed reading this book on my down times on vacation …..was perfect!
Couldn’t put it down…living in the Hudson Valley and following the story was great…. Character were very interesting
Easy reading ….. highly recommend
I downloaded Jodi’s book before my trip to the Baltic’s
I really enjoyed reading this book on my down times on vacation …..was perfect!
Couldn’t put it down…living in the Hudson Valley and following the story was great…. Character were very interesting
Easy reading ….. highly recommend
July 23, 2023
Detective Ebony finds herself in the middle of a personal potential murder scene when her best friends ex-husband goes missing after a kayaking accident on the river. As more information comes up, the scene looks more and more like a murder and less like an accident. However, with them on seemingly opposite sides, Ebony and her best friend Jessie become estranged. Except coming together through their stubbornness and issues may be the only chance they have at solving his death.
This book was super entertaining. I think at some moments it dragged on, but overall I was intrigued the whole time. I wouldn’t say this book was predictable, but it stayed in the realm of predictability the whole time, the details were the only thing I wasn’t able to really guess.
This book was super entertaining. I think at some moments it dragged on, but overall I was intrigued the whole time. I wouldn’t say this book was predictable, but it stayed in the realm of predictability the whole time, the details were the only thing I wasn’t able to really guess.
June 22, 2023
Jode’ Millman has written another winner with An Empty Kayak, the third novel in the Queen City Crimes Novels. This is a well written, well thought out book by a very talented author. It is fast paced with well developed and strong characters. A mystery that will keep the pages turning. Ms. Millman keeps you guessing from the start. A man goes missing from a kayak after an unexpected thunderstorm hits. Is this just a terrible accident or a murder….or maybe suicide??? The secrets are many and it is filled with twist and turns. The writing skills of this author will make you feel a part of this story. The descriptions are vivid and thrilling. You will be on the edge of your seat just waiting for some answers. I highly recommend this book and others by this skillful author.
Thank you Partners in Crime Book Tours, Level Best Books and Jode’ Millman for allowing me to be a part of this captivating book tour. The opinions expressed are strictly my own.
#partnersincrimebooktours. #levelbestbooks. #jodemillman
#anemptykayak. #arc
Thank you Partners in Crime Book Tours, Level Best Books and Jode’ Millman for allowing me to be a part of this captivating book tour. The opinions expressed are strictly my own.
#partnersincrimebooktours. #levelbestbooks. #jodemillman
#anemptykayak. #arc
July 8, 2023
Fellow Dutchess county Tesident
I have now read all 3 of the Queen City Crimes Mystery Novel. It was fun to read all of the familiar locations.
I was impressed with her adaptations of crimes and the development of the characters.
I have totally enjoyed reading these and anxiously await the next.
Fantastic job, Jode!
I have now read all 3 of the Queen City Crimes Mystery Novel. It was fun to read all of the familiar locations.
I was impressed with her adaptations of crimes and the development of the characters.
I have totally enjoyed reading these and anxiously await the next.
Fantastic job, Jode!
July 21, 2023
I really enjoyed this book and found it very hard to put down. A very old fashion murder in very modern times, with a glimpse of how life is perceived in the 21st century and what is most important to many.
The book opens with a kayaking incident on the Hudson River, is it accident, suicide or foul play, and will the body be found. This is a story the walks one through the step of the law enforcement agencies, and with the use modern technology the truth is discovered. Thanks you NetGalley and the publishers for the DRC
The book opens with a kayaking incident on the Hudson River, is it accident, suicide or foul play, and will the body be found. This is a story the walks one through the step of the law enforcement agencies, and with the use modern technology the truth is discovered. Thanks you NetGalley and the publishers for the DRC
Read
June 22, 2023Boasting both emotional complexity and well-developed characters, THE EMPTY KAYAK by Jodé Millman will suck readers into its nail-biting mystery!
July 30, 2024
Just one of those books that reel you in and the experience holds you tight and is more than satisfying.
The list of suspects moves each from the bottom to the top and from maybe to yes and to not likely and then up the list again as evidence is identified and verified. Enjoyable, yes, well written, yes, recommended yes. 5 stars yes
My thanks to the sponsors of this book’s goodreads giveaway for the opportunity to obtain and read The Empty Kayak.
The list of suspects moves each from the bottom to the top and from maybe to yes and to not likely and then up the list again as evidence is identified and verified. Enjoyable, yes, well written, yes, recommended yes. 5 stars yes
My thanks to the sponsors of this book’s goodreads giveaway for the opportunity to obtain and read The Empty Kayak.
July 28, 2024
Good book
May 11, 2023
Review Synopsis: Good police procedural. Very character driven and engaging. First book I have read by the author. 3rd book in a series but works as a standalone. Satisfying ending. I would read the next in the series.
Good reads has this listed as the 3rd book in the Queen City Crimes series. But I also found it listed as the Jessie Martin Series. Jessie and Ebony are long time friends who are on the same side of the law, but in opposite corners. Ebony, a detective and Jessie a lawyer. The women have a long history together and are battling to keep that friendship alive in the wake of their careers and the crimes that keep throwing them together while pulling them apart.
You have to wait a bit for the body to turn up in this story but that doesn't keep it from diving right into a missing person story and possible murder. Ebony and her partner become the lead detectives in what turns out to be the death of Jessie's ex-boyfriend and father of her child. Jessie is shocked to find out that her ex was not only involved with Olivia, a social media influencer, but engaged to be married.
This is a well written story that tries to keep you guessing on "if" there was a crime and who may have committed it. But the real story is "why". That's what kept me reading and engaged. I'm giving this book a solid 3.5 stars for a well told exciting story and wonderfully written characters. It is absolutely not necessary to have read the first two books in the series because I feel as if I have read them already just from this book. There is constant referencing of the former two crime stories that involved our lead characters. Some of it was needed to make this a standalone book and to better understand why the characters felt and acted as they did. But by half way through the book those previous stories are hammered in and I was ready to move on. Move on it did but I definitely had to push through that first half. I did like that Kyle, the deceased ex of Jessie, was still able to "make an appearance" in this story. It had me grieving as if were there.
Although the story had a satisfying end, I felt that were some hints of character arcs (Cindie and her husband perhaps) that may be showing up in another story and I would absolutely love to see this court case carry out while they are working on another crime scene. Can't say that would happen if there is a 4th book. But a reader can wish. Solid 3.5 stars (higher if the previous two books hadn't been referenced so often). And 2 thumbs up. I would read more by Jode Millman and continue with this series. Thank you #netgalley and #levelbestbooks for this eARC for kindle.
Good reads has this listed as the 3rd book in the Queen City Crimes series. But I also found it listed as the Jessie Martin Series. Jessie and Ebony are long time friends who are on the same side of the law, but in opposite corners. Ebony, a detective and Jessie a lawyer. The women have a long history together and are battling to keep that friendship alive in the wake of their careers and the crimes that keep throwing them together while pulling them apart.
You have to wait a bit for the body to turn up in this story but that doesn't keep it from diving right into a missing person story and possible murder. Ebony and her partner become the lead detectives in what turns out to be the death of Jessie's ex-boyfriend and father of her child. Jessie is shocked to find out that her ex was not only involved with Olivia, a social media influencer, but engaged to be married.
This is a well written story that tries to keep you guessing on "if" there was a crime and who may have committed it. But the real story is "why". That's what kept me reading and engaged. I'm giving this book a solid 3.5 stars for a well told exciting story and wonderfully written characters. It is absolutely not necessary to have read the first two books in the series because I feel as if I have read them already just from this book. There is constant referencing of the former two crime stories that involved our lead characters. Some of it was needed to make this a standalone book and to better understand why the characters felt and acted as they did. But by half way through the book those previous stories are hammered in and I was ready to move on. Move on it did but I definitely had to push through that first half. I did like that Kyle, the deceased ex of Jessie, was still able to "make an appearance" in this story. It had me grieving as if were there.
Although the story had a satisfying end, I felt that were some hints of character arcs (Cindie and her husband perhaps) that may be showing up in another story and I would absolutely love to see this court case carry out while they are working on another crime scene. Can't say that would happen if there is a 4th book. But a reader can wish. Solid 3.5 stars (higher if the previous two books hadn't been referenced so often). And 2 thumbs up. I would read more by Jode Millman and continue with this series. Thank you #netgalley and #levelbestbooks for this eARC for kindle.
June 1, 2023
As a storm rushes in, a young couple’s kayaking trip on the Hudson River unexpectedly takes a bad turn. Only one of them returns from the water.
There’s immediately a personal connection for the lead detective, Ebony Jones, adding an emotional aspect to it. As secrets are revealed, what starts out as a missing person case evolves into a possible homicide and whodunnit. While I quickly guessed the suspect (there are definitely several characters with more than questionable dealings), it was still an entertaining read. It’s an overall good police procedural.
Very relevant to social media these days and what drives people to be, or seem to be, as they are. While it’s the third book in this series, it works well as a standalone. I’d never read anything by this author, but would definitely read more of her work.
Solid 3 1/2 stars
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.
#TheEmptyKayak #NetGalley
There’s immediately a personal connection for the lead detective, Ebony Jones, adding an emotional aspect to it. As secrets are revealed, what starts out as a missing person case evolves into a possible homicide and whodunnit. While I quickly guessed the suspect (there are definitely several characters with more than questionable dealings), it was still an entertaining read. It’s an overall good police procedural.
Very relevant to social media these days and what drives people to be, or seem to be, as they are. While it’s the third book in this series, it works well as a standalone. I’d never read anything by this author, but would definitely read more of her work.
Solid 3 1/2 stars
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.
#TheEmptyKayak #NetGalley
June 2, 2023
Detective Ebony Jones is a dedicated caring cop stuck in the middle of a perplexing case. She and her partner are called to the river for a "missing and presumed" incident. The victim turns out to be the father of a toddler belonging to a once good friend of Ebony (Jessie, a criminal defense lawyer who is currently engaged to the former DA. Ebony recognizes this almost immediately because said toddler is at the scene with the parents of the presumed fiancee. What a mess! The investigation is a tangled mess with incredible plot twists and some really inventive red herrings, while the interpersonal aspects are occasionally baffling. A good read.
I requested and received an EARC from Level Best Books/Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA)/Members' Titles via NetGalley. Thank you
I requested and received an EARC from Level Best Books/Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA)/Members' Titles via NetGalley. Thank you
May 30, 2023
I enjoyed the mystery and whodunit. The two police detective, Ebony and Zander, made a good team and bounced off each other well.
From the blurb I was hoping for more danger and mystery.
Without having read the other books, it's hard to get a feel for Jessie. She's not as single focused as the blurb made me think she was, and didn't get as involved as I thought she would.
There were some bits of information that kind of jarred me out of the book, like the reason Drew calls Ebony 'Sugar' or more specifically, it's placement in the book.
All in all I read this in 2 days (that damn adulting) and really enjoyed it.
I wasn't surprised by the killer but I didn't guess who it was until it was revealed. Which is a plus in my book.
I received a copy via NetGalley and all opinions are my own.
From the blurb I was hoping for more danger and mystery.
Without having read the other books, it's hard to get a feel for Jessie. She's not as single focused as the blurb made me think she was, and didn't get as involved as I thought she would.
There were some bits of information that kind of jarred me out of the book, like the reason Drew calls Ebony 'Sugar' or more specifically, it's placement in the book.
All in all I read this in 2 days (that damn adulting) and really enjoyed it.
I wasn't surprised by the killer but I didn't guess who it was until it was revealed. Which is a plus in my book.
I received a copy via NetGalley and all opinions are my own.
June 4, 2023
Fast paced with twists and turns…
I’ve read all of Ms. Millman’s books and this is the best yet. Her attention to detail, character building and narrative skills are top notch. “The Empty Kayak” is a true page turner!
I’ve read all of Ms. Millman’s books and this is the best yet. Her attention to detail, character building and narrative skills are top notch. “The Empty Kayak” is a true page turner!
May 17, 2023
Kimberly from Daytona Beach Shores FL Community Center Book Club says….. It was an interesting twist to have the ex wife doing so much research on Kyle’s circumstances. With the resources available to us today it helped make the research fascinating. I liked the relationship between Jessie and Ebony and how they managed to become friends again through this awful situation. You kept us guessing to the very end on what truly happened to Kyle. A good read. #booktribbc #booktribbookclub #daytonabeachshorescommunitycenter
June 26, 2023
In The Empty Kayak, book three of the Queen City Crimes Series, author Jode Millman transports the reader back to the tranquil Hudson Valley town of Poughkeepsie, New York, for another intriguing story that will keep the reader guessing and turning the pages.
Poughkeepsie Police Detective Ebony Jones responds to a report of a missing kayaker after a rainstorm capasizes his kayak in the Hudson River. Ebony is shocked to learn that the missing man is Kyle Emory, the ex-fiance of her estranged best friend, criminal attorney Jessie Martin. Kyle and Jessie share a one-year old daughter, Lily, who had been with Kyle and his new fiancee, Olivia Vargas and her family at the park. Olivia and Kyle had gone kayaking in the river, but only Olivia returns to the shore. Ebony informs Jessie of Kyle's disappearance, and about Olivia, a person who she had no knowledge of or their relationship and recent engagement. Questions arise when the search for Kyle's body is slow going, was it an accident, a suicide, or a murder?
Attorney Jessie Martin receives a visit that no one ever wants. Jessie is determined to find the cause behind Kyle's disappearance, especially when her behind the scenes research into Kyle's life reveals secrets and lies, and she is determined to find the truth and seek justice, especially for her daughter.
Can Ebony and Jessie solve the mystery behind Kyle's disappearance? And will their investigation further strain their friendship in the long run?
Author Jode Millman weaves a slow-building and suspenseful tale that follows Detective Ebony Jones and criminal defense attorney Jessie Martin's investigation into the disappearance of Jessie's ex-fiance, Kyle Emory. They embark on an investigation that will reveal dark secrets and a tangled web of lies and deceit that will challenge their resolve to uncover the truth.
The reader will be easily drawn into this multi-layered story with a richly descriptive plot that interweaves police procedure and a dangerous cat-n-mouse game that will keep them guessing as personal and professional dramas, past histories, motives, and clues are uncovered. The reader will follow along as Ebony and Jessie are both determined to find out the truth behind Kyle's disappearance, and as tensions build, the suspect list grows, leaving them to put all the pieces of the puzzle together.
Author Jode Millman does an amazing job of taking the reader along for the ride as the investigative and legal process plays out with suspenseful twists and turns, and a surprising ending that will leave the reader wanting more.
The Empty Kayak has enough drama, tension, action, dark secrets, intrigue, and unexpected twists and turns that will take the reader on one heck of a thrilling roller coaster ride.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author / publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest book review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Partners In Crime Book Tours.
https://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspo...
Poughkeepsie Police Detective Ebony Jones responds to a report of a missing kayaker after a rainstorm capasizes his kayak in the Hudson River. Ebony is shocked to learn that the missing man is Kyle Emory, the ex-fiance of her estranged best friend, criminal attorney Jessie Martin. Kyle and Jessie share a one-year old daughter, Lily, who had been with Kyle and his new fiancee, Olivia Vargas and her family at the park. Olivia and Kyle had gone kayaking in the river, but only Olivia returns to the shore. Ebony informs Jessie of Kyle's disappearance, and about Olivia, a person who she had no knowledge of or their relationship and recent engagement. Questions arise when the search for Kyle's body is slow going, was it an accident, a suicide, or a murder?
Attorney Jessie Martin receives a visit that no one ever wants. Jessie is determined to find the cause behind Kyle's disappearance, especially when her behind the scenes research into Kyle's life reveals secrets and lies, and she is determined to find the truth and seek justice, especially for her daughter.
Can Ebony and Jessie solve the mystery behind Kyle's disappearance? And will their investigation further strain their friendship in the long run?
Author Jode Millman weaves a slow-building and suspenseful tale that follows Detective Ebony Jones and criminal defense attorney Jessie Martin's investigation into the disappearance of Jessie's ex-fiance, Kyle Emory. They embark on an investigation that will reveal dark secrets and a tangled web of lies and deceit that will challenge their resolve to uncover the truth.
The reader will be easily drawn into this multi-layered story with a richly descriptive plot that interweaves police procedure and a dangerous cat-n-mouse game that will keep them guessing as personal and professional dramas, past histories, motives, and clues are uncovered. The reader will follow along as Ebony and Jessie are both determined to find out the truth behind Kyle's disappearance, and as tensions build, the suspect list grows, leaving them to put all the pieces of the puzzle together.
Author Jode Millman does an amazing job of taking the reader along for the ride as the investigative and legal process plays out with suspenseful twists and turns, and a surprising ending that will leave the reader wanting more.
The Empty Kayak has enough drama, tension, action, dark secrets, intrigue, and unexpected twists and turns that will take the reader on one heck of a thrilling roller coaster ride.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author / publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest book review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Partners In Crime Book Tours.
https://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspo...
July 13, 2023
Thank you to Library Thing and Jodé Millman for allowing me to read The Empty Kayak, the third installment in Millman's Queen City Crimes series. I've read the other two, so was familiar with the characters and plots from the previous two novels. There is probably more backstory than needed for a new reader to follow this storyline. Nevertheless, I believe this book is the best of the three.
The author did a great job of conveying a sense of place. The series is set in Poughkeepsie, New York, along the Hudson River. Because this story involved a drowning in the Hudson, there was a lot more opportunity to develop the setting, and the river as a character.
Like the other two books, POV alternates between defense lawyer Jessie Martin and her best friend from grade school, detective Ebony Jones. Their relationship has been strained over the last decade because their professions often pit them against each other, and because they both withhold critical information from each other, they make things a lot harder than they could be.
The previous two books showed more of Jessie, whereas this one focused more on Ebony. And I found I liked Ebony better; Jessie seemed too whiny and devious. Fortunately, the two women learn to work together better in this book.
The story opens when Ebony and her partner, Zander, respond to a boating accident on the Hudson. Social media influencer Olivia Vargas, picnicking with her family, is beside herself because her fiance disappeared while kayaking when a rogue storm blew up. Ebony recognizes a child with the family as Lily, Jessie's daughter, and she soon learns the missing man is Kyle Emory, Jessie's ex-boyfriend and Lily's father. Neither Jessie nor Kyle's parents knew about his engagement to Olivia.
This was a good mystery. Although there wasn't much doubt about "whodunnit" and why, the author did a good job of showing how the detectives, D.A., and Jessie went about uncovering the clues and proving that Kyle's death was no accident.
The author did a great job of conveying a sense of place. The series is set in Poughkeepsie, New York, along the Hudson River. Because this story involved a drowning in the Hudson, there was a lot more opportunity to develop the setting, and the river as a character.
Like the other two books, POV alternates between defense lawyer Jessie Martin and her best friend from grade school, detective Ebony Jones. Their relationship has been strained over the last decade because their professions often pit them against each other, and because they both withhold critical information from each other, they make things a lot harder than they could be.
The previous two books showed more of Jessie, whereas this one focused more on Ebony. And I found I liked Ebony better; Jessie seemed too whiny and devious. Fortunately, the two women learn to work together better in this book.
The story opens when Ebony and her partner, Zander, respond to a boating accident on the Hudson. Social media influencer Olivia Vargas, picnicking with her family, is beside herself because her fiance disappeared while kayaking when a rogue storm blew up. Ebony recognizes a child with the family as Lily, Jessie's daughter, and she soon learns the missing man is Kyle Emory, Jessie's ex-boyfriend and Lily's father. Neither Jessie nor Kyle's parents knew about his engagement to Olivia.
This was a good mystery. Although there wasn't much doubt about "whodunnit" and why, the author did a good job of showing how the detectives, D.A., and Jessie went about uncovering the clues and proving that Kyle's death was no accident.
June 29, 2023
I received a gifted copy and am providing a review.
This is book three in the Queen City Crimes series. If you have not met these characters, I would recommend reading The Midnight Call and Hooker Avenue to get a sense of their personalities.
Jessie - the young attorney. Jessie is pretty stubborn and tends to get herself in a mess, only to find her way out again. She believes in the system, but she also believes in finding the truth. This is especially true in this tale of The Empty Kayak.
Ebony - a detective in Poughkeepsie, New York. She is also Jessie’s best friend, or at least she used to be. To say that their differences get in the way of their friendship is an understatement. They both want to fix what broke in their friendship, they just can’t seem to find a way to do so.
Hal - Jessie’s fiancé. He is also involved in the legal system and stands by Jessie, even when she chooses to shut him out.
Zander - Ebony’s partner. Their partnership has endured some pretty rocky roads, but they stick by one another. Their relationship is coming up with some even bigger challenges, but I suspect their paths will continue to cross.
The Vargas family - if you want to read about some drama, check this family out, most especially Olivia. She is what I would term a drama queen. She is also very concerned about her social media following. Then there are her parents, her brother, and her supposed ex-husband. These characters add a certain flair, a certain dynamic to this tale of what happened surrounding The Empty Kayak.
The consistency of these characters keeps me wanting to read more about them and their adventures, especially Jessie, Hal, Ebony, and Zander. I am quite certain they will be facing more adversaries while seeking out the truth, even if they are seemingly on opposite sides sometimes.
This is book three in the Queen City Crimes series. If you have not met these characters, I would recommend reading The Midnight Call and Hooker Avenue to get a sense of their personalities.
Jessie - the young attorney. Jessie is pretty stubborn and tends to get herself in a mess, only to find her way out again. She believes in the system, but she also believes in finding the truth. This is especially true in this tale of The Empty Kayak.
Ebony - a detective in Poughkeepsie, New York. She is also Jessie’s best friend, or at least she used to be. To say that their differences get in the way of their friendship is an understatement. They both want to fix what broke in their friendship, they just can’t seem to find a way to do so.
Hal - Jessie’s fiancé. He is also involved in the legal system and stands by Jessie, even when she chooses to shut him out.
Zander - Ebony’s partner. Their partnership has endured some pretty rocky roads, but they stick by one another. Their relationship is coming up with some even bigger challenges, but I suspect their paths will continue to cross.
The Vargas family - if you want to read about some drama, check this family out, most especially Olivia. She is what I would term a drama queen. She is also very concerned about her social media following. Then there are her parents, her brother, and her supposed ex-husband. These characters add a certain flair, a certain dynamic to this tale of what happened surrounding The Empty Kayak.
The consistency of these characters keeps me wanting to read more about them and their adventures, especially Jessie, Hal, Ebony, and Zander. I am quite certain they will be facing more adversaries while seeking out the truth, even if they are seemingly on opposite sides sometimes.
December 31, 2023
It is no wonder that The Empty Kayak has received a lot of praise and great reviews. Jode Millman knows how to craft the story so that the reader can navigate it effortlessly.
The Empty Kayak is the third book in the Queen City Crimes series and you will get swept into the story immediately.
In The Empty Kayak Detectives Ebony Jones and Zander Pulaski are called to a drowning on the Hudson River. When they arrive they find the Vargas family with one member, Olivia, hysterical. Olivia and her fiance were kayaking when a storm popped up and her fiance capsized and went missing in the water. Ebony is shocked to learn that the fiance is Kyle Emory …. her best friend Jessie’s ex boyfriend and the father of her infant daughter. Kyle had brought their daughter, Lily, to the park but would not be returning her to Jessie … that would be on Ebony to do.
Ebony and Zander begin their investigation but are being stonewalled by the Vargas family and not allowed to interview Olivia. This makes them more suspicious of the drowning event and dive into their investigation in other ways. Unfortunately Ebony and Jessie, who is a lawyer, do not have a strong relationship currently so they do not work together.
Once the case hits a critical point, Jessie and Ebony have no other choice but to work together if they want to find justice for Kyle and allow him to rest in peace….
Readers will be on the edge of their seats reading The Empty Kayak !! Millman will have you so focused, nothing else will matter. You will want to do whatever you can to find out the truth behind Kyle’s drowning …. even if it is just turning the pages as you read.
The Empty Kayak is the third book in the Queen City Crimes series and you will get swept into the story immediately.
In The Empty Kayak Detectives Ebony Jones and Zander Pulaski are called to a drowning on the Hudson River. When they arrive they find the Vargas family with one member, Olivia, hysterical. Olivia and her fiance were kayaking when a storm popped up and her fiance capsized and went missing in the water. Ebony is shocked to learn that the fiance is Kyle Emory …. her best friend Jessie’s ex boyfriend and the father of her infant daughter. Kyle had brought their daughter, Lily, to the park but would not be returning her to Jessie … that would be on Ebony to do.
Ebony and Zander begin their investigation but are being stonewalled by the Vargas family and not allowed to interview Olivia. This makes them more suspicious of the drowning event and dive into their investigation in other ways. Unfortunately Ebony and Jessie, who is a lawyer, do not have a strong relationship currently so they do not work together.
Once the case hits a critical point, Jessie and Ebony have no other choice but to work together if they want to find justice for Kyle and allow him to rest in peace….
Readers will be on the edge of their seats reading The Empty Kayak !! Millman will have you so focused, nothing else will matter. You will want to do whatever you can to find out the truth behind Kyle’s drowning …. even if it is just turning the pages as you read.
July 9, 2023
I received a copy of Millman's new novel as a Goodreads Giveaway. I enjoyed the complex plot featuring the drowning death of Kyle in the Hudson River; the circumstances surrounding his drowning were ambiguous - was it suicide, was it accidental or was it murder? As so often the initial police and family reactions favored misadventure; others favored suicide and a few went for the killing option. Millman expertly walks the reader thru the investigation's painstaking work to discover the truth with Kyle's former fiancé Jessie adding her own dogged efforts to find the reasons for his untimely passing.
The initial opening of the novel sets the stage so strongly that it motivates the reader to want to know what's going to happen. Kyle's new fiancé, Olivia, seems suspiciously distracted by her phone and her appearance at the scene by the river; we learn about a missing plug in his kayak - is this a red herring? Why did Kyle change his insurance beneficiaries just before his death? What were Kyle and Olivia's brother Augie arguing about? Millman wraps up this thriller into a exciting package of forensic evidence, passionate finger-pointing and outright lies.
At times the novel suffered from overuse of adjectives and descriptive phrases that didn't really drive the plot forward but this observation didn't detract from my enjoyment of the book.
Shawn Callon, author of The Simon Montfort Series, wrote this review.
The initial opening of the novel sets the stage so strongly that it motivates the reader to want to know what's going to happen. Kyle's new fiancé, Olivia, seems suspiciously distracted by her phone and her appearance at the scene by the river; we learn about a missing plug in his kayak - is this a red herring? Why did Kyle change his insurance beneficiaries just before his death? What were Kyle and Olivia's brother Augie arguing about? Millman wraps up this thriller into a exciting package of forensic evidence, passionate finger-pointing and outright lies.
At times the novel suffered from overuse of adjectives and descriptive phrases that didn't really drive the plot forward but this observation didn't detract from my enjoyment of the book.
Shawn Callon, author of The Simon Montfort Series, wrote this review.
June 3, 2023
Jodé Millman does it again. The Empty Kayak poses a lot more questions than answers during the first two-thirds of the book. Detective Ebony Jones comes up against her estranged best friend, attorney Jessie Martin, when Jessie’s ex, Kyle Emory, disappears in a storm while kayaking on the Hudson River. He was with his new fiancée (the one that no one seems to have been aware) and she’s either a spoiled rich diva or a very smart and manipulating young woman. Everything Kyle could do wrong, he appears to have done wrong – no life jacket, wearing street clothes, etc. – but that’s only at the surface. What’s going on behind the scenes is where it gets really interesting. Millman takes us into the worlds of sports betting and social media influencing, with secrets, and deceptions along the way. Jones and Martin both attempt to solve the mystery of Kyle’s death, leading to some surprising results. Millman has the remarkable ability to take her readers deep into the minds of her protagonists and you find yourself working right along with them to solve the case. The ending was a surprise to me and a perfect way to wrap the story. I’m very eager to see where Ebony Jones and Jessica Martin find themselves next.
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