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Taking Candy
It was so easy. Like Taking Candy…
A rash of home invasions with no survivors.
A senior district judge ambushed and gunned down in his car.
Two detectives, each working their own cases, have one thing in common. They think they know who the perp is, but they can’t prove it.
How are they going to stop him?
And as more time passes, one thing becomes
Somebody is going to have to step up and do something about it.
A rash of home invasions with no survivors.
A senior district judge ambushed and gunned down in his car.
Two detectives, each working their own cases, have one thing in common. They think they know who the perp is, but they can’t prove it.
How are they going to stop him?
And as more time passes, one thing becomes
Somebody is going to have to step up and do something about it.
240 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 27, 2023
1 person is currently reading
15 people want to read
About the author
Robert Lalonde
55 books27 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Robert Lalonde est né à Oka en 1947. Après avoir obtenu un baccalauréat ès arts au Séminaire de Sainte-Thérèse, il a poursuivi des études en interprétation théâtrale au Conservatoire d'art dramatique de Montréal.
En 1970, il a obtenu le premier prix d'interprétation du Conservatoire et une bourse d'un an qui lui a permis de voyager en Europe et aux États-Unis.
Professeur d'art dramatique au Cégep Lionel-Groulx, il a aussi enseigné au Conservatoire d’art dramatique de Montréal ainsi qu'à l’Université du Québec de Trois-Rivières. Acteur dans de nombreux films et téléfilms, homme de scène, il se consacre également à l'adaptation de textes pour le théâtre et à l'écriture romanesque. Il a entre autres traduit le livre d'Anne Michaels, Fugitive Pieces (La Mémoire en fuite, Boréal, 1998).
Ses notes sur l’art de voir, de lire et d’écrire, parues dans Le Devoir il y a quelques années, ont été très appréciées du public et se retrouvent, complétées de textes inédits, dans Le Monde sur le flanc de la truite et Le Vacarmeur, tous deux publiés au Boréal.
Robert Lalonde représente le Québec à chaque automne depuis 1997 en tant que membre du jury du Prix de l’Union latine, à Rome (Italie).
En 2005, il a fait paraître le roman Que vais-je devenir jusqu’à ce que je meure ?, un bouleversant portrait de l’adolescence. Enfin, au printemps 2007, Robert Lalonde nous a offert le recueil de nouvelles Espèces en voie de disparition, une plongée vers l’humanité qui se cache derrière le quotidien, une échappée vers la part la plus vivante de nous. Ce recueil a été finaliste dans la catégorie « Romans et nouvelles » des prix du Gouverneur général 2007 et finaliste du Prix du Grand public La Presse /Salon du livre de Montréal. Il est également, à l’heure actuelle, finaliste du Grand Prix littéraire Archambault et du Prix littéraire des collégiens 2008. En 2009, il nous offrait deux novellas réunies dans Un cœur rouge dans la glace et au printemps 2011, il a publié sous le titre Le Seul Instant ses carnets, regroupant réflexions et aquarelles.
Robert Lalonde est né à Oka en 1947. Après avoir obtenu un baccalauréat ès arts au Séminaire de Sainte-Thérèse, il a poursuivi des études en interprétation théâtrale au Conservatoire d'art dramatique de Montréal.
En 1970, il a obtenu le premier prix d'interprétation du Conservatoire et une bourse d'un an qui lui a permis de voyager en Europe et aux États-Unis.
Professeur d'art dramatique au Cégep Lionel-Groulx, il a aussi enseigné au Conservatoire d’art dramatique de Montréal ainsi qu'à l’Université du Québec de Trois-Rivières. Acteur dans de nombreux films et téléfilms, homme de scène, il se consacre également à l'adaptation de textes pour le théâtre et à l'écriture romanesque. Il a entre autres traduit le livre d'Anne Michaels, Fugitive Pieces (La Mémoire en fuite, Boréal, 1998).
Ses notes sur l’art de voir, de lire et d’écrire, parues dans Le Devoir il y a quelques années, ont été très appréciées du public et se retrouvent, complétées de textes inédits, dans Le Monde sur le flanc de la truite et Le Vacarmeur, tous deux publiés au Boréal.
Robert Lalonde représente le Québec à chaque automne depuis 1997 en tant que membre du jury du Prix de l’Union latine, à Rome (Italie).
En 2005, il a fait paraître le roman Que vais-je devenir jusqu’à ce que je meure ?, un bouleversant portrait de l’adolescence. Enfin, au printemps 2007, Robert Lalonde nous a offert le recueil de nouvelles Espèces en voie de disparition, une plongée vers l’humanité qui se cache derrière le quotidien, une échappée vers la part la plus vivante de nous. Ce recueil a été finaliste dans la catégorie « Romans et nouvelles » des prix du Gouverneur général 2007 et finaliste du Prix du Grand public La Presse /Salon du livre de Montréal. Il est également, à l’heure actuelle, finaliste du Grand Prix littéraire Archambault et du Prix littéraire des collégiens 2008. En 2009, il nous offrait deux novellas réunies dans Un cœur rouge dans la glace et au printemps 2011, il a publié sous le titre Le Seul Instant ses carnets, regroupant réflexions et aquarelles.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
June 18, 2023
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed reading this book. The characters were interesting and the plot moved quickly. I felt like the twists at the end were unexpected and still fit in with the story line without leaving giant plot holes. I usually don't like police procedurals, but this was quite good and I was pleasantly surprised. I will check out other things by this author after how much I enjoyed this book.
I really enjoyed reading this book. The characters were interesting and the plot moved quickly. I felt like the twists at the end were unexpected and still fit in with the story line without leaving giant plot holes. I usually don't like police procedurals, but this was quite good and I was pleasantly surprised. I will check out other things by this author after how much I enjoyed this book.
June 25, 2023
In "Taking Candy," Robert Lalonde crafts a profoundly moving narrative that explores the themes of resilience, friendship, and the strength to overcome adversity. This heartwarming tale takes readers on a journey of self-discovery, highlighting the transformative power of human connections and the ability to find solace in unexpected places.
"Taking Candy" tells the story of Candy, a young girl who has endured unimaginable hardships and finds herself navigating a world filled with uncertainty and loneliness. Lalonde masterfully captures the essence of Candy's vulnerability and her determination to forge her own path, painting a vivid portrait of resilience in the face of immense challenges.
One of the book's strengths lies in Lalonde's ability to weave a captivating narrative while addressing sensitive and thought-provoking subjects. Through Candy's journey, Lalonde explores themes such as trauma, loss, and the healing power of genuine human connections. Lalonde's prose is imbued with compassion and sensitivity, drawing readers into Candy's world and evoking a range of emotions.
"A poignant tribute to the indomitable spirit of resilience and the unbreakable bonds of friendship."
"Robert Lalonde's 'Taking Candy' is an emotional rollercoaster that will tug at your heartstrings."
"Experience a journey of hope and healing in this captivating tale of survival and self-discovery."
"An unforgettable story that reminds us of the extraordinary strength that resides within the human soul."
"Lalonde's masterful storytelling transports readers to a world where brokenness is mended by the power of love and friendship."
Lalonde delivers a powerful message about the importance of finding solace and support in the face of adversity through Candy. The friendships she forms along her journey reveal the resilience of the human spirit and the potential for growth and healing, even in the darkest of times.
Lalonde's prose breathes life into the characters, making them relatable and endearing. Candy's transformation is both inspiring and heartrending, as she discovers her own inner strength and learns to trust in the kindness of others. The narrative is expertly paced, keeping readers engaged and invested in Candy's fate until the very last page.
"Taking Candy" is an emotionally charged novel that will leave a lasting impression on readers. Lalonde's ability to tackle difficult subjects with sensitivity and grace is commendable, making this book a must-read for those seeking a tale of resilience, friendship, and the healing power of the human spirit.
"Taking Candy" tells the story of Candy, a young girl who has endured unimaginable hardships and finds herself navigating a world filled with uncertainty and loneliness. Lalonde masterfully captures the essence of Candy's vulnerability and her determination to forge her own path, painting a vivid portrait of resilience in the face of immense challenges.
One of the book's strengths lies in Lalonde's ability to weave a captivating narrative while addressing sensitive and thought-provoking subjects. Through Candy's journey, Lalonde explores themes such as trauma, loss, and the healing power of genuine human connections. Lalonde's prose is imbued with compassion and sensitivity, drawing readers into Candy's world and evoking a range of emotions.
"A poignant tribute to the indomitable spirit of resilience and the unbreakable bonds of friendship."
"Robert Lalonde's 'Taking Candy' is an emotional rollercoaster that will tug at your heartstrings."
"Experience a journey of hope and healing in this captivating tale of survival and self-discovery."
"An unforgettable story that reminds us of the extraordinary strength that resides within the human soul."
"Lalonde's masterful storytelling transports readers to a world where brokenness is mended by the power of love and friendship."
Lalonde delivers a powerful message about the importance of finding solace and support in the face of adversity through Candy. The friendships she forms along her journey reveal the resilience of the human spirit and the potential for growth and healing, even in the darkest of times.
Lalonde's prose breathes life into the characters, making them relatable and endearing. Candy's transformation is both inspiring and heartrending, as she discovers her own inner strength and learns to trust in the kindness of others. The narrative is expertly paced, keeping readers engaged and invested in Candy's fate until the very last page.
"Taking Candy" is an emotionally charged novel that will leave a lasting impression on readers. Lalonde's ability to tackle difficult subjects with sensitivity and grace is commendable, making this book a must-read for those seeking a tale of resilience, friendship, and the healing power of the human spirit.
June 2, 2023
Taking Candy is a true crime mystery. Detective Scappini has spent many years on the force, dedicating his career to putting criminals away. When a local Judge is gunned down in cold blood he is put on the case. He is hot on the trail of Lester who has a record of killing in cold blood not to leave anyone behind who can identify him. Murders are happening left and right in Toronto and all leads point to Lester, a hired gunman who has zero problem doing the job he is hired to do, but his biggest mistake all starts with his now girlfriend Chrissy.
Detective Scappini hooks up with Detective Hall and Detective Brill who are partners in another department to help see if the break in and murders that they are investigating have anything to do with his Judge case. Time and time again the crime scene is the same, again leading to Lester. When the three detectives decide that they are sick of the senseless killings and have nothing but gut instincts to go on they take matters into their own hands. But do they have the right killer?
I really enjoyed this story, the flow of the characters were great, the detail of the events spot on, the in-between happenings to lead up to all the events worked great and right up until the last chapter I could not put this book down and binge read it. However it is the last chapter that throws me for a loop. I want to know more, I want some more information as to how the story came to this end. That is my reasoning for the 4 stars. I am looking forward to more books from Robert Lalonde.
I was given an ARC of Taking Candy for my honest review.
Detective Scappini hooks up with Detective Hall and Detective Brill who are partners in another department to help see if the break in and murders that they are investigating have anything to do with his Judge case. Time and time again the crime scene is the same, again leading to Lester. When the three detectives decide that they are sick of the senseless killings and have nothing but gut instincts to go on they take matters into their own hands. But do they have the right killer?
I really enjoyed this story, the flow of the characters were great, the detail of the events spot on, the in-between happenings to lead up to all the events worked great and right up until the last chapter I could not put this book down and binge read it. However it is the last chapter that throws me for a loop. I want to know more, I want some more information as to how the story came to this end. That is my reasoning for the 4 stars. I am looking forward to more books from Robert Lalonde.
I was given an ARC of Taking Candy for my honest review.
June 13, 2023
Wowzer! I read this book so fast that I lost track of time. Robert Lalonde truly knows how to write a mystery with police procedures. You have a Judge who is murdered, a detective fully involved ready to investigate, and an additional two detectives from another department who all believe they know who the murderer is . Add in more murders and voila you have a mystery that needs answers quickly. But can they find the true murderer? Is the guy they think responsible really the one? This is an action packed story that does not stop with the twists and turns. I was so engrossed with the authors story telling ability. The characters were so well developed and invested that they meshed so well together. I would love to see this made into a movie!
5 out of 5 stars
Thank you to NetGalley as well as the author and publisher for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my unbiased and honest review.
5 out of 5 stars
Thank you to NetGalley as well as the author and publisher for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my unbiased and honest review.
June 25, 2023
This book is set in Canada just before (in fact almost into) the pandemic of 2020, although no mention at all is made of this. The premise is that a police detective, grizzled Detective Scappini, has the death of a judge to solve - the judge was murdered in his car. His colleagues are working on a series of home invasions where the perpetrator leaves no one alive to tell tales.
Apparently it is based on true crimes, although I didn't realise that when I read it. I found the plot fairly turgid - somehow it just never got traction and depth for me. The characters remained fairly one dimensional, and indeed it felt more like a regurgitation of facts rather than a story one would read for pleasure.
A bit disappointing really; the tale itself is an interesting one but nothing really drew me in.
Thank you to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for allowing me access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Apparently it is based on true crimes, although I didn't realise that when I read it. I found the plot fairly turgid - somehow it just never got traction and depth for me. The characters remained fairly one dimensional, and indeed it felt more like a regurgitation of facts rather than a story one would read for pleasure.
A bit disappointing really; the tale itself is an interesting one but nothing really drew me in.
Thank you to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for allowing me access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 4, 2023
Whilst I did really enjoy this one and found it a refreshing change of pace from other police procedurals, it also felt a bit slower and maybe more detailed orientated than I'd like. I'm too used to TV crime shows and their magic results in an hr and crimes solved in 2 days where as this felt like quite an independent look into the inner workings in a more realistic way. I liked the characters and found them well written and realistic and found myself very fascinated by the chain of events and how things got solved. It felt more like a true crime podcast than a fiction which also worked for me
May 22, 2023
There are a lot of deaths in this book. However, it’s a thriller and that’s what you sign up for and there’s no gory description which is my boundary for a good tale.
I really liked this story – it was sharp, focused, all ends neatly tied up, easy to follow and had a couple of neat twists at the end that I hadn’t seen coming. To top it all there was a dash of humour sprinkled throughout and that always adds a star for me. I read the book in two days. If you want a quick, lean read that’s exciting and you like twists then this book is for you!
I really liked this story – it was sharp, focused, all ends neatly tied up, easy to follow and had a couple of neat twists at the end that I hadn’t seen coming. To top it all there was a dash of humour sprinkled throughout and that always adds a star for me. I read the book in two days. If you want a quick, lean read that’s exciting and you like twists then this book is for you!
July 4, 2023
YOU WON’T WANT TO PUT THIS ONE DOWN!
I think Robert LaLonde accurately described himself and TAKING CANDY when he wrote the following about “Sterling” (one of the characters in the book). . . . “Sterling was exactly the kind of reporter who could go on to writing best-selling crime novels. He had the uncanny ability of making readers feel they were at the scene of the crime, walking through the mystery with him, and discovering the secret that lay buried there under the rubble.” INDEED!
I think Robert LaLonde accurately described himself and TAKING CANDY when he wrote the following about “Sterling” (one of the characters in the book). . . . “Sterling was exactly the kind of reporter who could go on to writing best-selling crime novels. He had the uncanny ability of making readers feel they were at the scene of the crime, walking through the mystery with him, and discovering the secret that lay buried there under the rubble.” INDEED!
April 17, 2024
An Overall Good Read
Author Robert Lalonde weaves a marvelous mystery with quite the surprise twist! The plot is complex enough to keep the reader guessing and the story is very fast paced with just enough detail.
Generally, the story could use a little more character development with the main character, and the very end - epilogue - seemed a little out of place.
Still, I loved this story and any fan of Harlan Corbin would enjoy this read!
Author Robert Lalonde weaves a marvelous mystery with quite the surprise twist! The plot is complex enough to keep the reader guessing and the story is very fast paced with just enough detail.
Generally, the story could use a little more character development with the main character, and the very end - epilogue - seemed a little out of place.
Still, I loved this story and any fan of Harlan Corbin would enjoy this read!
June 23, 2023
This was a DNF (did not finish) for me. I just couldn't get into it.
I was given a copy via NetGalley. this opinion is my own and not a reflection on the writing style or the plot. It just didn't grab my attention.
I was given a copy via NetGalley. this opinion is my own and not a reflection on the writing style or the plot. It just didn't grab my attention.
July 5, 2023
*Received Free copy from NetGalley*
I really enjoyed the characters in this book and how they switched perspectives to build the suspense. I was intrigued while trying to figure out the who and why of the crimes BUT towards the end, the story felt rushed. I felt like the ending wasn't satisfying.
I really enjoyed the characters in this book and how they switched perspectives to build the suspense. I was intrigued while trying to figure out the who and why of the crimes BUT towards the end, the story felt rushed. I felt like the ending wasn't satisfying.
June 22, 2023
True crime at its finest! This book reminded me to keep my door lock and the light on! I did not see the twist coming and I loved that! Not being able to guess the twist! I will definitely read more!
June 25, 2023
This crime novel was quite interesting, some twists were surprising, others not as much as intended, but I couldn't really get into he writing style that reads somehow like a police report.
June 30, 2023
An interesting approach to presenting true crime in novel format. The perspective of the reporter added an extra angle and kept the pace strong.
November 1, 2023
Thank you Netgalley for an ARC! I tried to love this book! It was all over the place with the characters and plot. The story was hard to follow and not captivating. I rate this book a 1.9
November 23, 2023
An enjoyable, Elmore Leonard-esque crime story. Fast-paced and highly readable, with a great twist at the end.
August 12, 2025
Fast paced thrill that will keep you glued. Characters were over all balances as well as the story plot. There are some twist and turns you don't see coming.
November 19, 2023
Taking Candy by Robert Lalonde is a mystery with police procedures. This book and the characters were extremely interesting, and the plot moves along quickly. The story is set in Canada and Detective Scappini has spent many years on the police force, and he has dedicated his career to putting criminals behind bars. When a local Judge is gunned down in cold blood Detective Scappini is put on the case.
Scappini is quickly on the tail of Lester Sapp who is extremely dangerous as a career criminal and who has a record of killing in cold blood so as not to leave any witnesses behind who can identify him. The body count goes up after Sapp looks in the notebook of the judge and sees his lawyers name with a note of money payments. There are also a couple of crooked police officers mixed in which adds to the suspense.
The author Robert Lalonde lets the readers feel they are at the scene of the crimes, and realistically keeps the reader engrossed by the chain of events. I enjoyed this book, liked the characters, and found them professionally written. Thanks to NetGalley and to the publishers of this book for giving me a free advance copy of the book to preview and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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Scappini is quickly on the tail of Lester Sapp who is extremely dangerous as a career criminal and who has a record of killing in cold blood so as not to leave any witnesses behind who can identify him. The body count goes up after Sapp looks in the notebook of the judge and sees his lawyers name with a note of money payments. There are also a couple of crooked police officers mixed in which adds to the suspense.
The author Robert Lalonde lets the readers feel they are at the scene of the crimes, and realistically keeps the reader engrossed by the chain of events. I enjoyed this book, liked the characters, and found them professionally written. Thanks to NetGalley and to the publishers of this book for giving me a free advance copy of the book to preview and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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September 4, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed the characters in this book and how the narration shifted perspectives. The crime and story was well built but I believe the ending 25% of the book felt out of place, based on the characters, and rushed.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews