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Molly: House on Fire
Molly Kincaid is an extremely successful and equally wealthy defense attorney, but that is all even her closest friends know about her. Behind the facade is a dark past she thought she buried long ago. Now, Molly must face that past and the danger that comes with it. Murders and mayhem, a Civil War gold legend, and a secret Molly has carried for twenty-nine years threaten to bring her world crashing down around her. Molly Kincaid must return to the land of her birth and nothing good can come of that... or could it? Molly's house is on fire and the only way out is through the flames.
450 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 4, 2012
20 people are currently reading
623 people want to read
About the author
R.E. Bradshaw
26 books240 followersHow did a girl from the Outer Banks of North Carolina end up writing contemporary women's fiction in Oklahoma? Well, there has to be a woman involved. Bradshaw began her writing career in 2010, after leaving Theatre and teaching. Since then, her novels ranging from the popular romance, Waking Up Gray, to the Lambda Literary Award Finalists, thriller Rainey Nights and mystery Molly: House on Fire, have remained among Amazon’s bestsellers in lesbian fiction. All of Bradshaw’s books, thus far, are set in her beloved home state of North Carolina. She was transplanted from the coast to the Heartland by the love of her life, an Oklahoma girl, with whom she celebrate twenty-five years in June 2013. They have a son, Jon, and share their home with two dogs and two cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
October 29, 2020
Holy moly I didn't like this one. This is one of those reads where I wanted to chuck it half way through but I felt compelled to keep going just to have it done. That's never a good sign.
If you're interested, this book is a spinoff for a character, Molly Kincaid, that makes appearances in Bradshaw's Rainey Bell series. And like the Rainey Bell series, this is a mystery. I felt this could be read as a stand alone though.
With all of the five star reviews on this and the author's other books I was excited to dive in. The outset wasn't too bad. The description of a North Carolina small town, the introduction of several characters, and the humble and abusive beginnings of our lead character, Molly, actually reeled me in. I'll say this, Bradshaw can write just fine. It's the character choices, over the top drama, and the execution of plot that made this read eye roll and groan worthy.
My biggest beef is with Molly herself. She's a fine character in one respect. I mean, she has integrity. But, she's a hotshot in career, material opulence, and has more money than god. It oozes off of her and we're never made to forget it. She's slick. I don't like hotshots in real life and I don't like them in fiction apparently. And she's made to be a doppelganger of Jodie Foster, where people mistake her for her all the time to the point where some women use her to play out their celebrity fetish fantasies. Just yuck. For Jodie Foster fans, have at it. But, for me, I couldn't get Jodie's face out of my head and I didn't like it at all.
Plus, Molly Kincaid is a lawyer, not an A-list celebrity. Yet, that's how she exists in this world. I'm sorry, but unless you're Michael Avenatti, Michael Cohen, or Gloria Allred that suck up any limelight they can get, doing the talk show and media circuit, and/or are going down for crimes, the world does NOT follow any attorney's life, putting them in publications and treating them like stars. Nope.
The story has a romance but it's about as cardboard as my moving boxes. There's a lot of telling and we get the standard of both leads having perfect bodies and faces, etc, etc, yawn. Molly, the ever elusive one woman show, and Leslie, the ever elusive small town version of that, both FALL IN LOVE with each other in five or six days. As their interactions became more intimate, I felt less and less for them as a couple. I got to the point I was dreading a sex scene and, luckily, it was of the fade to black variety. Small mercies. If their relationship was attraction, intrigue, and a promise of more without all of the commitment, 180s, and throwing in the kitchen sink I could've believed it more but the way it was written pulled me away from them. And granted, Bradshaw does try to modify Molly's behavior and characteristics to show she's progressing in her own issues to move forward in a romance but in less than a week? Again, nope. Not to mention that Molly does a jerk and unsafe move, throwing a tantrum with her car, that made me go, "WHAT?!". I was endeared to Molly in the beginning chapters but it all faded afterwards.
And, there's so much winking going on it could be a drinking game. Winking is another peeve of mine. Find some other way for characters to engage with each other. I'm nearly 45 years of age at this point and have been winked at maybe three times my whole life and two of those times were before 10 years old. It doesn't happen.
As the book goes on, and it does go on and on because it's long, the drama escalates to the point of face palming. I actually started skimming around the 65% mark. I've been in many a movie theater where the same type of dynamic plays out on screen and it's not good. Bradshaw chose to bring Rainey Bell and some other characters into the book, who are all incredible experts in their fields and on her speed dial and available within 24 hrs. I think it would've been a lot better to keep this a Molly Kincaid mystery focusing on what Molly could do and bring without all of the side conversations and extra scenes which became repetitive in some respects. It's a shame because the book had enough drama in the beginning and even middle to carry it. But, as we neared climax, the drama was poured onto like a gas fire and the characters became caricatures. It was too much.
The mystery? It wasn't exactly predictable and, because more drama was thrown in as we went, there were red herrings that kept us guessing to the point where we wouldn't know everything until the final scenes. Bradshaw gives a pretty big hint somewhere along the middle that does point to who is behind it all that I was able to guess.
One good thing was that one of the characters in the book was a person with Aspergers and I thought that was depicted pretty well.
Overall, this was a big miss for me. I know there are plenty of people who like this kind of read who will get enjoyment out of it. I don't say that as an insult, just that this book is a matter of style and preference and it was a complete mismatch for me. I can't recommend.
If you're interested, this book is a spinoff for a character, Molly Kincaid, that makes appearances in Bradshaw's Rainey Bell series. And like the Rainey Bell series, this is a mystery. I felt this could be read as a stand alone though.
With all of the five star reviews on this and the author's other books I was excited to dive in. The outset wasn't too bad. The description of a North Carolina small town, the introduction of several characters, and the humble and abusive beginnings of our lead character, Molly, actually reeled me in. I'll say this, Bradshaw can write just fine. It's the character choices, over the top drama, and the execution of plot that made this read eye roll and groan worthy.
My biggest beef is with Molly herself. She's a fine character in one respect. I mean, she has integrity. But, she's a hotshot in career, material opulence, and has more money than god. It oozes off of her and we're never made to forget it. She's slick. I don't like hotshots in real life and I don't like them in fiction apparently. And she's made to be a doppelganger of Jodie Foster, where people mistake her for her all the time to the point where some women use her to play out their celebrity fetish fantasies. Just yuck. For Jodie Foster fans, have at it. But, for me, I couldn't get Jodie's face out of my head and I didn't like it at all.
Plus, Molly Kincaid is a lawyer, not an A-list celebrity. Yet, that's how she exists in this world. I'm sorry, but unless you're Michael Avenatti, Michael Cohen, or Gloria Allred that suck up any limelight they can get, doing the talk show and media circuit, and/or are going down for crimes, the world does NOT follow any attorney's life, putting them in publications and treating them like stars. Nope.
The story has a romance but it's about as cardboard as my moving boxes. There's a lot of telling and we get the standard of both leads having perfect bodies and faces, etc, etc, yawn. Molly, the ever elusive one woman show, and Leslie, the ever elusive small town version of that, both FALL IN LOVE with each other in five or six days. As their interactions became more intimate, I felt less and less for them as a couple. I got to the point I was dreading a sex scene and, luckily, it was of the fade to black variety. Small mercies. If their relationship was attraction, intrigue, and a promise of more without all of the commitment, 180s, and throwing in the kitchen sink I could've believed it more but the way it was written pulled me away from them. And granted, Bradshaw does try to modify Molly's behavior and characteristics to show she's progressing in her own issues to move forward in a romance but in less than a week? Again, nope. Not to mention that Molly does a jerk and unsafe move, throwing a tantrum with her car, that made me go, "WHAT?!". I was endeared to Molly in the beginning chapters but it all faded afterwards.
And, there's so much winking going on it could be a drinking game. Winking is another peeve of mine. Find some other way for characters to engage with each other. I'm nearly 45 years of age at this point and have been winked at maybe three times my whole life and two of those times were before 10 years old. It doesn't happen.
As the book goes on, and it does go on and on because it's long, the drama escalates to the point of face palming. I actually started skimming around the 65% mark. I've been in many a movie theater where the same type of dynamic plays out on screen and it's not good. Bradshaw chose to bring Rainey Bell and some other characters into the book, who are all incredible experts in their fields and on her speed dial and available within 24 hrs. I think it would've been a lot better to keep this a Molly Kincaid mystery focusing on what Molly could do and bring without all of the side conversations and extra scenes which became repetitive in some respects. It's a shame because the book had enough drama in the beginning and even middle to carry it. But, as we neared climax, the drama was poured onto like a gas fire and the characters became caricatures. It was too much.
The mystery? It wasn't exactly predictable and, because more drama was thrown in as we went, there were red herrings that kept us guessing to the point where we wouldn't know everything until the final scenes. Bradshaw gives a pretty big hint somewhere along the middle that does point to who is behind it all that I was able to guess.
One good thing was that one of the characters in the book was a person with Aspergers and I thought that was depicted pretty well.
Overall, this was a big miss for me. I know there are plenty of people who like this kind of read who will get enjoyment out of it. I don't say that as an insult, just that this book is a matter of style and preference and it was a complete mismatch for me. I can't recommend.
December 6, 2015
How great is this book? It should be studied by writers hoping to understand what makes a compelling read. Dialogue, plot, pacing, suspense and characters you care about. This book has them all.
R.E. Bradshaw sets the bar for thrillers, lesbian or mainstream. Excellent read.
R.E. Bradshaw sets the bar for thrillers, lesbian or mainstream. Excellent read.
December 30, 2014
After severing with her past at age 18, Molly Kincaid has never looked back. With the help of her foster parents, she has carved success after success leading to her own very lucrative private law practice. But on her 39th birthday, the past came calling again--in the form of a dying man's last whisper.
Molly House on Fire is an excellent and well-balanced mix of drama, romance, mystery and thriller. If the author's very popular Rainey Bell series is a little light on the romance, this one isn't. Although it doesn't start up right away, the development of the romance--from the initial attraction, the flirting (loved all that sexual tension in the midst of the mystery), the hesitation, the refusal to let go of past habits and fears, the LQs and the makeups, in other words, everything--was very well paced. It isn't just romance though. There is also friendship, camaraderie and loyalty. Molly's interactions with her partner Randy, her friends (a certain famous FBI profiler makes more than a cameo here!), and even the baddies, are lively and engaging. But the best is reserved for one bittersweet relationship, as Molly finally gets to know the woman she's loved all her life but never knew. Perfect.
Drama aside, the author also weaves a rich and intricate mystery that requires the reader to pay careful attention. Four murders, 2 mysterious deaths, anonymous threats and a legendary treasure everyone is after but no one has ever seen--Molly must figure out how they're all tied together--while defending an autistic boy from a murder charge.
My only beef has to do with the lead-up to the climax. The actions of the two main characters are like something from 'Dumb and Dumber'. Fortunately, this led to one of the most memorable and morbidly efficient (lol) climaxes in all of lesfic. :)
5 stars.
Molly House on Fire is an excellent and well-balanced mix of drama, romance, mystery and thriller. If the author's very popular Rainey Bell series is a little light on the romance, this one isn't. Although it doesn't start up right away, the development of the romance--from the initial attraction, the flirting (loved all that sexual tension in the midst of the mystery), the hesitation, the refusal to let go of past habits and fears, the LQs and the makeups, in other words, everything--was very well paced. It isn't just romance though. There is also friendship, camaraderie and loyalty. Molly's interactions with her partner Randy, her friends (a certain famous FBI profiler makes more than a cameo here!), and even the baddies, are lively and engaging. But the best is reserved for one bittersweet relationship, as Molly finally gets to know the woman she's loved all her life but never knew. Perfect.
Drama aside, the author also weaves a rich and intricate mystery that requires the reader to pay careful attention. Four murders, 2 mysterious deaths, anonymous threats and a legendary treasure everyone is after but no one has ever seen--Molly must figure out how they're all tied together--while defending an autistic boy from a murder charge.
My only beef has to do with the lead-up to the climax. The actions of the two main characters are like something from 'Dumb and Dumber'. Fortunately, this led to one of the most memorable and morbidly efficient (lol) climaxes in all of lesfic. :)
5 stars.
December 20, 2017
A story told superbly over the span of a week with a mishmash of crime, mystery and romance all rolled up into a tasty jambalaya of soulmate lovey-dovey mouthfuls of quick 'I-Love-Yous'. I didn't even realize it was only 5 days before the ILYs were thrown about (insert lesfic trope), because the spacing was so well done. Regardless, I was thoroughly entertained.
August 15, 2015
Woah, I love how the mystery, thrill and romance all blend into one seamlessly. The only thing that has me cringing all the time is that all the main characters are so perfect and beautiful, like Hollywood beautiful, Hollywood perfect. Overly perfect. There's no sense of realism there. I like Before It Stains because that feels more real. Lol! Nonetheless, it was a good read and now I want to read about Rainey and Katie.
April 12, 2012
Top notch, hot shot, lawyer, Molly Kincaid, is enjoying her comfortable privileged life until she receives a string of calls and emails. All stemming from her childhood home county. Unknown to Molly, these calls and emails are about to change her well ordered life forever.
Molly is going back to her roots. Back to a life she had long left behind in Dobbs county. A life she thought she would never have to re-visit again.
Unfortunately, Molly has no choice. She has to go back and face her past. She has to learn the truth about the life she had left behind so many years ago. A past life that is about to have a huge impact on Molly’s future. A past that could very well end the career Molly lives for.
Who and what in Molly’s past is coming back to haunt her? What can be so important that it could devastate Molly’s life? Who is about to enter Molly’s life and change it forever? Will Molly find the love she has always denied she wants?
This book about the story of Molly has been a long awaited dream for diehard fans of RE Bradshaw. It does not disappoint. The story is a blockbuster. A book with so much crammed into it, it will leave you breathless and still wanting even more.
Just for starters, we learn the story behind the successful lawyer, Molly Kincaid. How she grew up, what her family was like. All the things that makes Molly what she is today. Her story is harrowing. Hearing how young Molly grew up, enables us to understand how she became the woman we know today.
Knowing what makes Molly tick, makes her even more loveable than I’d already thought she was.
Not only do we hear all about Molly growing up, we are also plunged head first into mystery, murder, crime, corruption, deep dark secrets from the past all interwoven seamless into the story this wonderful book has to offer.
The book is extremely well written, in the typical RE Bradshaw style. We get to see Molly’s dearest friends from other books, including one of my favorites, Rainey Bell and her new family and the lovable Randy. The book is fast paced and a page turner right from the first page through to the last page. But, if you are like me, you won’t want to finish it too quickly, you will want to savor the whole story. Then go back and read it all over again.
With all the goings on in this book, you will also find the subtle touch of humor throughout that I’ve come to adore when reading one of RE Bradshaw’s books. No matter how serious the story is, there is always a little light relief interspersed among the dark deeds.
Last but not least, there is the romance. I always enjoy a touch of romance and I was more than happy with the balance of romance to the rest of the story.
Once again RE Bradshaw has written a winner. This book is perfect. It would make an excellent film.
Molly is going back to her roots. Back to a life she had long left behind in Dobbs county. A life she thought she would never have to re-visit again.
Unfortunately, Molly has no choice. She has to go back and face her past. She has to learn the truth about the life she had left behind so many years ago. A past life that is about to have a huge impact on Molly’s future. A past that could very well end the career Molly lives for.
Who and what in Molly’s past is coming back to haunt her? What can be so important that it could devastate Molly’s life? Who is about to enter Molly’s life and change it forever? Will Molly find the love she has always denied she wants?
This book about the story of Molly has been a long awaited dream for diehard fans of RE Bradshaw. It does not disappoint. The story is a blockbuster. A book with so much crammed into it, it will leave you breathless and still wanting even more.
Just for starters, we learn the story behind the successful lawyer, Molly Kincaid. How she grew up, what her family was like. All the things that makes Molly what she is today. Her story is harrowing. Hearing how young Molly grew up, enables us to understand how she became the woman we know today.
Knowing what makes Molly tick, makes her even more loveable than I’d already thought she was.
Not only do we hear all about Molly growing up, we are also plunged head first into mystery, murder, crime, corruption, deep dark secrets from the past all interwoven seamless into the story this wonderful book has to offer.
The book is extremely well written, in the typical RE Bradshaw style. We get to see Molly’s dearest friends from other books, including one of my favorites, Rainey Bell and her new family and the lovable Randy. The book is fast paced and a page turner right from the first page through to the last page. But, if you are like me, you won’t want to finish it too quickly, you will want to savor the whole story. Then go back and read it all over again.
With all the goings on in this book, you will also find the subtle touch of humor throughout that I’ve come to adore when reading one of RE Bradshaw’s books. No matter how serious the story is, there is always a little light relief interspersed among the dark deeds.
Last but not least, there is the romance. I always enjoy a touch of romance and I was more than happy with the balance of romance to the rest of the story.
Once again RE Bradshaw has written a winner. This book is perfect. It would make an excellent film.
February 19, 2018
I'm in the minority I know. I did not find Molly, the main character, likable at all. The scenes that are meant to be amusing, were not in my opinion. And what's with all the "winking"?? Annoying to read that word on every other page.
August 12, 2017
This book left me with a very divided opinion.
So I'll mark it as a solid 4.
The narrative is very well written and fluid, easy to understand.
The chapters are very well divided, which makes it easy to pause the reading. I particularly enjoyed it.
The mystery and suspense of the book held me tight; The whole investigation, to me, was very well executed.
There were a few parts, especially in the middle and end of the book, that I was able to predict some outcomes but nothing that really let me down.
Now ... What left me torn and made me hold to give a solid 5 was the part of the romance.
While the couple was a good mix, the speed as things escalated was disappointing.
I'm accustomed to slow burn and I think this trait ended my chances of enjoying reading a "common" romance.
The book has a lot of pages and the story is very well developed but I felt that the romance, even if it took a while to be fully developed, quickly escalated.
In just a week that the characters knew each other, they were already saying "I love you", "you are my home", "I waited my whole life for you" ... Practically asking for marriage ...
While this may be cute ... I thought the thing climbed so fast that I was surprised and stopped for a few seconds to just read a few sentences again and say, "seriously? But you just met the girl!"
Well ... I think some things could have been better if the characters had not said it to each other but in total, the romance was good ... It could be better if they were not playing love statements as if the relationship been going on for years ...
But as I said, this is because i'm a person who was tainted by slow burn ...
Overall, a great read and I'm seriously considering buying other books from the author.
So I'll mark it as a solid 4.
The narrative is very well written and fluid, easy to understand.
The chapters are very well divided, which makes it easy to pause the reading. I particularly enjoyed it.
The mystery and suspense of the book held me tight; The whole investigation, to me, was very well executed.
There were a few parts, especially in the middle and end of the book, that I was able to predict some outcomes but nothing that really let me down.
Now ... What left me torn and made me hold to give a solid 5 was the part of the romance.
While the couple was a good mix, the speed as things escalated was disappointing.
I'm accustomed to slow burn and I think this trait ended my chances of enjoying reading a "common" romance.
The book has a lot of pages and the story is very well developed but I felt that the romance, even if it took a while to be fully developed, quickly escalated.
In just a week that the characters knew each other, they were already saying "I love you", "you are my home", "I waited my whole life for you" ... Practically asking for marriage ...
While this may be cute ... I thought the thing climbed so fast that I was surprised and stopped for a few seconds to just read a few sentences again and say, "seriously? But you just met the girl!"
Well ... I think some things could have been better if the characters had not said it to each other but in total, the romance was good ... It could be better if they were not playing love statements as if the relationship been going on for years ...
But as I said, this is because i'm a person who was tainted by slow burn ...
Overall, a great read and I'm seriously considering buying other books from the author.
March 7, 2018
This is not a romance. It is an action/mystery book. The story itself is good if a bit too long for me. I lost interest in it and had to force myself to finish. Also, the comment: "I tell you, Molly. We have to get better control of our women." disgusted me and made this a butch book which I don't like. The only brief love scene was a couple kisses and an orgasm which also reminded me of being with men. It felt very awkward. I wonder if R.E. Bradshaw is not comfortable writing love scenes.
April 16, 2012
I'm sure that some of the North Carolina details peppered throughout the book will be lost on the majority of her readers, but RE Bradshaw sure nails this one when it comes to plot and characters. I never saw it the answer to the who-dun-it coming. Better than that (to me anyway because I'm a romance writer), Bradshaw writes characters you can fall in love with. Well worth the read.
July 23, 2012
Once again proving that love shows up when you least expect it. Good love story mixed with just a enough suspense and mystery.
June 27, 2016
Review written & published on Criticalwrit.com
There's something to be said about the expression “Don’t judge a book by its cover” and the self-published Molly: House on Fire, by R.E. Bradshaw, is one of those books that require us to go beyond the cover to get a measure of how good they are. And frankly, with the somewhat uninspired title and a cover that pains the eyes, I didn’t go into the book with good expectations. It turned out, however, to be a solid mystery novel.
Molly Kincaid is a hot-shot defense attorney. In fact, she’s one of the best there is, but when a call from her past disrupts her steady lifestyle, her childhood comes crashing back down on her. At home, there aren’t many people who really know about her— That she was born Molly Harris, a poor child in the South, she was “white trash” as they call it, and that she killed her father at a young age to stop his abuse on her mother. Given up for adoption at the age of ten by a mother who could no longer take care of her, she vowed to make a new life and hadn’t looked back once. But Joe, the police officer who had helped Molly and her mother back then, is dying, and he needs her help in a case fraught with danger. There’s a murderer on the loose, and he seems keenly interested in an old legend about lost Confederate gold… Soon, questions arise and the very things Molly had believed to be true for thirty years crumble under her.
Going back to her birth town is difficult for Molly, and she soon realizes nobody really forgot the kid she was, and it’ll prove to be to her advantage as she crashes into town to bring justice. The story reminds me of a spaghetti western movie, down to a colorful and solid secondary cast who rises to her side. And help she will need as she works to prove that Joey, Joe’s autistic grandson, didn’t kill his mother, especially if it means finding who the real killer might be. Bradshaw’s portrayal of Joey and of autism is excellent and I deeply enjoyed seeing an autistic individual that for once didn’t fall into the well-worn category of Sherlock-type quirky geniuses. Working with Joey brings Molly to meet Leslie, a psychologist and Joey’s teacher, and she soon finds that she cannot keep her mind (and her eyes) off the woman. She’ll have to do just that however, because her father’s family is still around, and they’re every bit as vile and dangerous as he was.
The mystery elements occupy most of the story and while the book takes time to introduce us to side characters from Bradshaw’s previous novels, it doesn't stray too far. The mystery starts slowly and Bradshaw is good at pacing the rise of tension throughout the book. By the time the pieces started all falling into place, I was anxious to see the story reach its climax. One of the things I especially liked about this book, was that the main character isn’t alone against those who would do her harm. A lot of books pit their hero against impossible odds but Bradshaw is good at introducing helpful side characters without clogging the narrative.
I also thought that the romance elements were a tad too awkward. I didn’t feel much chemistry between Leslie and Molly despite their occasional friendly banter. Leslie probably would have benefited from being more closely tied to the plot, but as it stands, she hovers on the edge of the narrative without real use beyond being here for Molly’s character development. Perhaps it is because I’m more accustomed to romance taking a bigger place than it does in this book, but I also found her to be somewhat shallowly written, and we never learn much about her. We know she shares Molly’s love of ridiculously high-priced fast cars, and is a caring person toward her protégé, but… that’s about it. I’m not usually picky when it comes to lesbian romance, but I felt very unsatisfied with this one.
Molly: House on Fire may not be a groundbreaking read, but it is a solid mystery novel that doesn’t lack suspense and that has the merit of tackling difficult subjects like domestic violence and what happens when people close their eyes on the suffering of victims: a downward spiral of more violence and pain.
There's something to be said about the expression “Don’t judge a book by its cover” and the self-published Molly: House on Fire, by R.E. Bradshaw, is one of those books that require us to go beyond the cover to get a measure of how good they are. And frankly, with the somewhat uninspired title and a cover that pains the eyes, I didn’t go into the book with good expectations. It turned out, however, to be a solid mystery novel.
Molly Kincaid is a hot-shot defense attorney. In fact, she’s one of the best there is, but when a call from her past disrupts her steady lifestyle, her childhood comes crashing back down on her. At home, there aren’t many people who really know about her— That she was born Molly Harris, a poor child in the South, she was “white trash” as they call it, and that she killed her father at a young age to stop his abuse on her mother. Given up for adoption at the age of ten by a mother who could no longer take care of her, she vowed to make a new life and hadn’t looked back once. But Joe, the police officer who had helped Molly and her mother back then, is dying, and he needs her help in a case fraught with danger. There’s a murderer on the loose, and he seems keenly interested in an old legend about lost Confederate gold… Soon, questions arise and the very things Molly had believed to be true for thirty years crumble under her.
Going back to her birth town is difficult for Molly, and she soon realizes nobody really forgot the kid she was, and it’ll prove to be to her advantage as she crashes into town to bring justice. The story reminds me of a spaghetti western movie, down to a colorful and solid secondary cast who rises to her side. And help she will need as she works to prove that Joey, Joe’s autistic grandson, didn’t kill his mother, especially if it means finding who the real killer might be. Bradshaw’s portrayal of Joey and of autism is excellent and I deeply enjoyed seeing an autistic individual that for once didn’t fall into the well-worn category of Sherlock-type quirky geniuses. Working with Joey brings Molly to meet Leslie, a psychologist and Joey’s teacher, and she soon finds that she cannot keep her mind (and her eyes) off the woman. She’ll have to do just that however, because her father’s family is still around, and they’re every bit as vile and dangerous as he was.
The mystery elements occupy most of the story and while the book takes time to introduce us to side characters from Bradshaw’s previous novels, it doesn't stray too far. The mystery starts slowly and Bradshaw is good at pacing the rise of tension throughout the book. By the time the pieces started all falling into place, I was anxious to see the story reach its climax. One of the things I especially liked about this book, was that the main character isn’t alone against those who would do her harm. A lot of books pit their hero against impossible odds but Bradshaw is good at introducing helpful side characters without clogging the narrative.
I also thought that the romance elements were a tad too awkward. I didn’t feel much chemistry between Leslie and Molly despite their occasional friendly banter. Leslie probably would have benefited from being more closely tied to the plot, but as it stands, she hovers on the edge of the narrative without real use beyond being here for Molly’s character development. Perhaps it is because I’m more accustomed to romance taking a bigger place than it does in this book, but I also found her to be somewhat shallowly written, and we never learn much about her. We know she shares Molly’s love of ridiculously high-priced fast cars, and is a caring person toward her protégé, but… that’s about it. I’m not usually picky when it comes to lesbian romance, but I felt very unsatisfied with this one.
Molly: House on Fire may not be a groundbreaking read, but it is a solid mystery novel that doesn’t lack suspense and that has the merit of tackling difficult subjects like domestic violence and what happens when people close their eyes on the suffering of victims: a downward spiral of more violence and pain.
March 17, 2017
I'm very happy I stumbled upon this book. It's been months since I found something that I wanted to finish!! Definitely checking out the other novels of the author.
June 28, 2012
Letting go of the past
At last Molly get’s a book to herself. Instead of Molly having a walk on role to sue the pants off the miscreants this time Molly is centre stage as the past catches up with her.
Free of her love for Stephanie (read “Before it Stains”), Molly finds true love where she least expects it, back in the town where she was born. There ghosts from her past gather to prevent her finding out what really happened to her mum and Molly puts her life on the line to protect the one’s she loves.
I love this fabulous pacey story, full of love, drama, humour and dark secrets.
This latest book from Rebecca Bradshaw shows how her story telling skills have developed and improved, she sucks you in and does not let you go until she is finished with you :-)
At last Molly get’s a book to herself. Instead of Molly having a walk on role to sue the pants off the miscreants this time Molly is centre stage as the past catches up with her.
Free of her love for Stephanie (read “Before it Stains”), Molly finds true love where she least expects it, back in the town where she was born. There ghosts from her past gather to prevent her finding out what really happened to her mum and Molly puts her life on the line to protect the one’s she loves.
I love this fabulous pacey story, full of love, drama, humour and dark secrets.
This latest book from Rebecca Bradshaw shows how her story telling skills have developed and improved, she sucks you in and does not let you go until she is finished with you :-)
April 9, 2012
This was a book I could not put down. I have read all her books and Molly has appeared in them and now to know her story is great. The great thing about it is, the characters from the other books appeared in this one. It make me think that I really know them. I was able to really get into the book. I felt as though I was there. Amazing. It had everything from fear, suspense, sadness, romance, humor and a whole lot of Molly. Thanks for telling her story. Now I can re-read the other books onnce again and understand why she is the way she is.
October 10, 2014
This book, people, read it.
So, I just read it for I think the 12th time. And each and every time, I get sucked into the story of Molly and what she has to come to terms with. And each and every time I get all emotional. I don't know why.
I thought the Rainy Bell books were the best I have ever read, but Molly's book is better.
For me, this is a classic.
So, I just read it for I think the 12th time. And each and every time, I get sucked into the story of Molly and what she has to come to terms with. And each and every time I get all emotional. I don't know why.
I thought the Rainy Bell books were the best I have ever read, but Molly's book is better.
For me, this is a classic.
January 9, 2015
What a funny, exciting and entertaining read. Wonderful characters and a great story about friendship. And now we know why Molly is awesome!
March 18, 2016
Nicely done. Wow!
July 14, 2012
This is Decky's best book yet...IMO.
August 13, 2017
This is such a great crime and mystery story. And also it is such an emotional ride to me. I would say there were parts that made me sad and tear but not cry my eyes out like the other novel that i had read though. There are some humors part too. And i really enjoy the little bit of romance that develop between the main characters.
Out of all characters, Sarah, even though she's dead but she is really catch my attention. Tbh, I think i really admire her. If she is alive, i know she will be a sweet and great mother. She was such a strong woman, despite whatever happened to her. She carried them all, trying to survived and look after Molly and always want what best for her daughter. It was so sad, she was waiting for so long until Molly turned 18 so she could contact her again but couldn't. That letter that hidden under her purse really emotional to me. I cried from that.
I think this book is not really different compare to reality. Some human are really cruel and greedy and will do whatever they can to get what they want..
Err.. I think i was off the topic now. Well anyway.this is such a great book. I really like Leslie btw :)
Out of all characters, Sarah, even though she's dead but she is really catch my attention. Tbh, I think i really admire her. If she is alive, i know she will be a sweet and great mother. She was such a strong woman, despite whatever happened to her. She carried them all, trying to survived and look after Molly and always want what best for her daughter. It was so sad, she was waiting for so long until Molly turned 18 so she could contact her again but couldn't. That letter that hidden under her purse really emotional to me. I cried from that.
I think this book is not really different compare to reality. Some human are really cruel and greedy and will do whatever they can to get what they want..
Err.. I think i was off the topic now. Well anyway.this is such a great book. I really like Leslie btw :)
Read
June 19, 2020I was drawn to this book because of the praise it has garnered from its readers—praise that seems genuine rather than just friend reviews. In fact, it may be one of the most beloved lesbian mysteries ever, with over 175 five-star ratings. And many of the book’s fans enjoy the book over and over again.
For one thing, it has length—at 450 pages, Bradshaw has more than enough room to do everything that has to be done to make a novel complete, unlike so many of the early Naiad mysteries that topped out at less than half that number of pages.
The plot is deliciously complicated, but essentially, Molly Kincaid, a top-notch lawyer living in Durham, North Carolina, receives a request from a dying man to solve a murder that happened in her old home town of Waitesville. This simple request—which she initially refuses—brings Molly’s entire bizarre and tragic childhood back to her in a rush. And make no mistake, this book is about Molly first and foremost; the mystery is secondary. So far, so good, especially since Molly is an interesting and unique individual. One of the most interesting parts of the book, though has to do with Molly's client, Joey, who lives with Asperger's Syndrome. The unique way that Leslie—Joey's psychologist—communicates with him is not only enjoyable, but informative.
I like the fact that the very popular Bradshaw publishes her own books. This is the direction that modern publishing is going and the quicker all lesbian mystery writers take control of their own product, the better off they will be financially. The main trouble is that many indie writers don’t have access to or can’t afford adequate editors. Although Molly: House on Fire reads better than most, there are still problems. I’m going to mention some of them here because most of the other reviewers have not.
First of all, Bradshaw seems to have her own theory about when to use hyphens for compound adjectives. “A dope using poor man,” for instance, instead of “a dope-using poor man.” Or “ear splitting levels” instead of "ear-splitting levels.” There are a lot of these. If she has a no-hyphens philosophy, fine, but she does use them sometimes so consistency is an issue. Second, the author sometimes gives us too much information—not anything really important to the story, just filler. Here’s an example. Molly has instructed Randy, her assistant on the case, to put some required forms in his briefcase and bring them to an important meeting. Yet when he does, Molly’s response is to gush. “Molly was more certain than ever that she made the right decision, [sic] in making Randy a partner.” These overstatements are subtle and hard to catch in an otherwise interesting novel, but they are there in abundance and detract from what could have been a tighter novel. The additions are not bad, just unnecessary—something that a better editor would have pointed out. My final peeve is Bradshaw’s decision to bring in Rainey Bell from her popular Rainey Bell Mysteries series. I think she should have just mentioned her in passing, maybe even asked for help but was told that Rainey was too busy. This is Molly’s book and it is unfair to her as a character for Rainey to wave a technological wand and make things better. It wasn’t necessary; Molly is a very strong, very intelligent character and could have—should have—handled the case by herself. In fact, I think that Bradshaw should write a prequel that describes Molly’s first cases and especially her first million-dollar case. A case that was solved before Molly met Rainey Bell.
The first half of the book roped me in pretty well. Molly’s love interest, Leslie Walker, a psychologist, is a likeable character and a good match for Molly. Their flirting throughout the book is charming. Yet somehow, I felt that halfway though, the book was over. I knew virtually everything that was gong to happen—both with Leslie and with the murder. All that was left to do was wade through the prose to the end. As far as the ending goes, I felt there were far too many unbelievable twists and contrivances—not the least of which was the ever-popular and always-annoying gambit of having your otherwise extremely intelligent protagonist suddenly do something completely stupid and out of character for the sake of injecting a little excitement and suspense into the story. A good novel does not need this type of formulaic implausibility.
Having said all this—and because I read one of the earliest printings of the paperback version of this book—Bradshaw may have already dealt with these problems without my knowing it. If so, my apologies. If I had to do it over again, I would have purchased the e-book, which is reasonably priced.
My rating? Well, it really doesn’t matter much, does it, especially since my own scores don’t affect Bradshaw’s average. Still, I can’t rave about the book like so many others have done. Nor do I feel much like ranting about how everybody else has overrated it. The first half is somewhere around a 4; the last half nearer a 3. It is a decent book with a good plot and excellent protagonist--it just needs a little trimming down. Call it 3.5 and try the first of the Rainey Bell mysteries. At the time I am writing this, the e-book is priced reasonably.
Note: I read what appears to be the first REB printing of this book.
Another Note: This review is included in my book The Art of the Lesbian Mystery Novel, along with information on over 930 other lesbian mysteries by over 310 authors.
For one thing, it has length—at 450 pages, Bradshaw has more than enough room to do everything that has to be done to make a novel complete, unlike so many of the early Naiad mysteries that topped out at less than half that number of pages.
The plot is deliciously complicated, but essentially, Molly Kincaid, a top-notch lawyer living in Durham, North Carolina, receives a request from a dying man to solve a murder that happened in her old home town of Waitesville. This simple request—which she initially refuses—brings Molly’s entire bizarre and tragic childhood back to her in a rush. And make no mistake, this book is about Molly first and foremost; the mystery is secondary. So far, so good, especially since Molly is an interesting and unique individual. One of the most interesting parts of the book, though has to do with Molly's client, Joey, who lives with Asperger's Syndrome. The unique way that Leslie—Joey's psychologist—communicates with him is not only enjoyable, but informative.
I like the fact that the very popular Bradshaw publishes her own books. This is the direction that modern publishing is going and the quicker all lesbian mystery writers take control of their own product, the better off they will be financially. The main trouble is that many indie writers don’t have access to or can’t afford adequate editors. Although Molly: House on Fire reads better than most, there are still problems. I’m going to mention some of them here because most of the other reviewers have not.
First of all, Bradshaw seems to have her own theory about when to use hyphens for compound adjectives. “A dope using poor man,” for instance, instead of “a dope-using poor man.” Or “ear splitting levels” instead of "ear-splitting levels.” There are a lot of these. If she has a no-hyphens philosophy, fine, but she does use them sometimes so consistency is an issue. Second, the author sometimes gives us too much information—not anything really important to the story, just filler. Here’s an example. Molly has instructed Randy, her assistant on the case, to put some required forms in his briefcase and bring them to an important meeting. Yet when he does, Molly’s response is to gush. “Molly was more certain than ever that she made the right decision, [sic] in making Randy a partner.” These overstatements are subtle and hard to catch in an otherwise interesting novel, but they are there in abundance and detract from what could have been a tighter novel. The additions are not bad, just unnecessary—something that a better editor would have pointed out. My final peeve is Bradshaw’s decision to bring in Rainey Bell from her popular Rainey Bell Mysteries series. I think she should have just mentioned her in passing, maybe even asked for help but was told that Rainey was too busy. This is Molly’s book and it is unfair to her as a character for Rainey to wave a technological wand and make things better. It wasn’t necessary; Molly is a very strong, very intelligent character and could have—should have—handled the case by herself. In fact, I think that Bradshaw should write a prequel that describes Molly’s first cases and especially her first million-dollar case. A case that was solved before Molly met Rainey Bell.
The first half of the book roped me in pretty well. Molly’s love interest, Leslie Walker, a psychologist, is a likeable character and a good match for Molly. Their flirting throughout the book is charming. Yet somehow, I felt that halfway though, the book was over. I knew virtually everything that was gong to happen—both with Leslie and with the murder. All that was left to do was wade through the prose to the end. As far as the ending goes, I felt there were far too many unbelievable twists and contrivances—not the least of which was the ever-popular and always-annoying gambit of having your otherwise extremely intelligent protagonist suddenly do something completely stupid and out of character for the sake of injecting a little excitement and suspense into the story. A good novel does not need this type of formulaic implausibility.
Having said all this—and because I read one of the earliest printings of the paperback version of this book—Bradshaw may have already dealt with these problems without my knowing it. If so, my apologies. If I had to do it over again, I would have purchased the e-book, which is reasonably priced.
My rating? Well, it really doesn’t matter much, does it, especially since my own scores don’t affect Bradshaw’s average. Still, I can’t rave about the book like so many others have done. Nor do I feel much like ranting about how everybody else has overrated it. The first half is somewhere around a 4; the last half nearer a 3. It is a decent book with a good plot and excellent protagonist--it just needs a little trimming down. Call it 3.5 and try the first of the Rainey Bell mysteries. At the time I am writing this, the e-book is priced reasonably.
Note: I read what appears to be the first REB printing of this book.
Another Note: This review is included in my book The Art of the Lesbian Mystery Novel, along with information on over 930 other lesbian mysteries by over 310 authors.
December 19, 2023
A juicy mystery that I honestly wasn't expecting. Lots of trauma but it was a refreshing change of pace compared to most mystery thrillers. I think my one complaint is how the love interest plays out, read very much like a cozy mystery or a hallmark movie, made me want to throw up in my mouth sometimes but maybe I am just a cynical lesbian who doesn't believe love happens like that ha!
October 23, 2019
Fantastic book, and brilliantly written. Loved the relationship between Molly and Leslie - a perfect match indeed. This was the first book I've read by this author, but I will be keen to read another.
July 19, 2020
This is a book I regularly revisit and this was a reread. Full of Bradshaw characters from other novels this mystery thriller is great, with an excellent romance thrown in. This is a book with all the feels and well worth a read.
March 2, 2017
No matter R.E. Bradshaw writes, it's always a pleasure to read her books. I loved the story about Molly and really hope, we get something new to read soon!
July 3, 2017
The story was good but it did not able to engaged me that much in to the whole thing. The romance was okay. Molly was a good lead. It was just okay for me.
May 18, 2018
This was fun.
September 12, 2020
An amazing read from start to finish! I loved every page of this book, definitely a favorite
April 17, 2021
Yeah .... this book is awesome such a thriller suspense and plot was pure genius ...and ghosts of past
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June 28, 2023
2.5 Stars
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