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A Brandy Alexander Mystery #5
No Such Thing as a Lost Cause: A Brand Alexander Mystery
Brandy is in the fight of her life... When rookie cop, Dave Wolinski is shot during a routine traffic stop, Brandy (who's along for the ride) finds herself face to face with the shooter; drug-crazed, pit bull fighting, gang member, Mario Lewis. Brandy shoots Lewis in self defense and becomes the target of gang retaliation. Things heat up when Lewis, who appeared to be recovering from the wound inflicted by Brandy, suddenly, and mysteriously dies. Brandy has no sympathy for the dog abuser, but figures if she can clear her name, maybe the gang will back off. Soon, Brandy is thrust into a world of dog fighting, gang atrocities and a particularly sadistic gentleman named 'Torch' whose favorite pastime is setting people on fire.
280 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2012
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189 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
February 6, 2013
I laughed out loud so frequently during this book. That is rare for me.
Many times I saw a situation as awkward or mildly amusing but then Brandy’s comment or internal thought about it made it hilarious. I don’t know if others will find this as funny as I did. Humor is different for people. But if you want to laugh you must try her. This is book 5 in the series. I suggest you read book 1 first. I rated book 1 a little less than the others because I wanted her to have romance at the end. Just know that she gets her romance by the end of book 4. If I had known that in advance I might have been a little more patient. See below for the list of books.
Brandy is soooo likeable. She has so much empathy and care for others. She lies all the time, and her friends know she lies. Many of her lies are so others will feel better, or so others won’t worry about her. She wants to be an investigative reporter. She’s unemployed during most of the book. She’s not good at normal jobs. But boy she is really good at causing problems for bad guys in her odd ways.
Her former boyfriend is a cop. Her current boyfriend has mysterious links to criminal types. I was happy with the ending. This is not a romance novel, but I had positive romantic feelings at the end, sort of happy for now with good anticipation for the future.
THE SERIES:
You can read any book as a stand-alone, but I think it’s best if you read them in order. The first book sets thing up.
4 stars. No Such Thing As A Secret
5 stars. No Such Thing As A Good Blind Date
5 stars. No Such Thing As A Free Lunch
5 stars. No Such Thing As A Free Ride
5 stars. No Such Thing As A Lost Cause
DATA:
Narrative mode: 1st person Brandy. Kindle count length: 3,815 (434 KB) 259 pages. Swearing language: strong including religious swear words, but not often used. Sexual language: mild to none. Number of sex scenes: 4, mostly referred to no details. Setting: current day mostly Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Copyright: 2012. Genre: humorous female mystery with a little romance.
Many times I saw a situation as awkward or mildly amusing but then Brandy’s comment or internal thought about it made it hilarious. I don’t know if others will find this as funny as I did. Humor is different for people. But if you want to laugh you must try her. This is book 5 in the series. I suggest you read book 1 first. I rated book 1 a little less than the others because I wanted her to have romance at the end. Just know that she gets her romance by the end of book 4. If I had known that in advance I might have been a little more patient. See below for the list of books.
Brandy is soooo likeable. She has so much empathy and care for others. She lies all the time, and her friends know she lies. Many of her lies are so others will feel better, or so others won’t worry about her. She wants to be an investigative reporter. She’s unemployed during most of the book. She’s not good at normal jobs. But boy she is really good at causing problems for bad guys in her odd ways.
Her former boyfriend is a cop. Her current boyfriend has mysterious links to criminal types. I was happy with the ending. This is not a romance novel, but I had positive romantic feelings at the end, sort of happy for now with good anticipation for the future.
THE SERIES:
You can read any book as a stand-alone, but I think it’s best if you read them in order. The first book sets thing up.
4 stars. No Such Thing As A Secret
5 stars. No Such Thing As A Good Blind Date
5 stars. No Such Thing As A Free Lunch
5 stars. No Such Thing As A Free Ride
5 stars. No Such Thing As A Lost Cause
DATA:
Narrative mode: 1st person Brandy. Kindle count length: 3,815 (434 KB) 259 pages. Swearing language: strong including religious swear words, but not often used. Sexual language: mild to none. Number of sex scenes: 4, mostly referred to no details. Setting: current day mostly Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Copyright: 2012. Genre: humorous female mystery with a little romance.
February 4, 2013
I picked up the first Brandy Alexander book when I was looking for a romantic mystery series several years ago. Someone on the Amazon romance forum suggested this series and I promptly bought all three paperback books. I read the first, No Such Thing As A Secret and enjoyed the mystery and the character interactions. By the end of the second book I was feeling a definite attachment to Brandy and her friends and wanted to see where the main relationship was headed. With each book the characters became more real and well-developed, and the mysteries got better. By the end of book three Brandy and the gang were definitely "in my life" and I spent time thinking about them even when I wasn't reading. I then had to wait for book four for almost a year!
Why am I drawn to these characters? I can't say for sure. There is a mix of reality and farce in Brandy's adventures, and the humor is combined with serious situations in the mysteries. One thing that is obvious by the end of book 2- Brandy isn't a stagnant character--doing and saying the same things over and over for a laugh. She grows and matures through the books, while keeping some of her klutzy charm. As Brandy grows, the mysteries in the books become more serious and more relevant. Book four, No Such Thing As A Free Ride, deals with runaway teens and life on the streets. There are no easy answers or quick fixes offered. This book, No Such Thing as a Lost Cause, deals with dog fighting. Parts of it aren't easy to read, but it's well-done and well-researched.
But for me, the key to the books is the way I connect with the characters. I've watched Nick and Brandy grow closer through five books now, and I care about them and their problems. Fredman somehow writes these characters so they feel real to me. That doesn't mean I think there are many Nick's around. But given the character Fredman has written, he is consistent and believable.
If I've heard correctly, there is one more book to go. I don't know when that one will be out, but I'll wait as patiently as possible for the conclusion. It won't be easy saying good-bye to my Philadelphia friends, but it's nice to know I can go back and revisit them whenever I want to!
Why am I drawn to these characters? I can't say for sure. There is a mix of reality and farce in Brandy's adventures, and the humor is combined with serious situations in the mysteries. One thing that is obvious by the end of book 2- Brandy isn't a stagnant character--doing and saying the same things over and over for a laugh. She grows and matures through the books, while keeping some of her klutzy charm. As Brandy grows, the mysteries in the books become more serious and more relevant. Book four, No Such Thing As A Free Ride, deals with runaway teens and life on the streets. There are no easy answers or quick fixes offered. This book, No Such Thing as a Lost Cause, deals with dog fighting. Parts of it aren't easy to read, but it's well-done and well-researched.
But for me, the key to the books is the way I connect with the characters. I've watched Nick and Brandy grow closer through five books now, and I care about them and their problems. Fredman somehow writes these characters so they feel real to me. That doesn't mean I think there are many Nick's around. But given the character Fredman has written, he is consistent and believable.
If I've heard correctly, there is one more book to go. I don't know when that one will be out, but I'll wait as patiently as possible for the conclusion. It won't be easy saying good-bye to my Philadelphia friends, but it's nice to know I can go back and revisit them whenever I want to!
December 28, 2014
Absolutely loved it! Despite the serious topic, Shelly Fredman once again brings delightful humor to the NSTAA series through the thoughts and antics of Brandy and her friends. I love the way Brandy processes things through food and over thinking.
In the sixth book of the series, the fallout from an ill-fated ride-along weighs heavily on Brandy as she deals with her new relationship with Nick, accepting a new woman in Bobby's life, and trying to win over Johnny's new guy. When she discovers a disgusting twist in the already horrendous world of dog fighting, her increased awareness of the atrocity haunts her. In typical Brandy fashion, and over the concern of her friend. she feels compelled to take action against the horror of this so called sport. While trying to determine if a man who died in a hospital was, in fact, murdered, she encounters the more problems and greater danger. After all it wouldn't be a Brandy book is someone wasn't trying to kill her.
All of our regular friends are back offering her support. You have to love these guys. This books has the usual humor but there is also a feeling that these guys are growing up, even Brandy.
If you are a fan of Brandy and her friends you will love this book. If you are new to her world, hold on and get ready for a wild ride.
In the sixth book of the series, the fallout from an ill-fated ride-along weighs heavily on Brandy as she deals with her new relationship with Nick, accepting a new woman in Bobby's life, and trying to win over Johnny's new guy. When she discovers a disgusting twist in the already horrendous world of dog fighting, her increased awareness of the atrocity haunts her. In typical Brandy fashion, and over the concern of her friend. she feels compelled to take action against the horror of this so called sport. While trying to determine if a man who died in a hospital was, in fact, murdered, she encounters the more problems and greater danger. After all it wouldn't be a Brandy book is someone wasn't trying to kill her.
All of our regular friends are back offering her support. You have to love these guys. This books has the usual humor but there is also a feeling that these guys are growing up, even Brandy.
If you are a fan of Brandy and her friends you will love this book. If you are new to her world, hold on and get ready for a wild ride.
December 27, 2012
This is my favorite series ever. Shelly Fredman just gets better with every book. I don't understand why she's not on the bestseller list. The No Such Thing As A series has humor, heart, suspense and romance. They're what Janet Evanovichs books should be and aren't. They leave me immediately wanting the next one.
December 28, 2012
Many, many, moons ago Shelly Fredman contacted me about her book, No Such Thing As A Secret, and asked if I’d be willing to read and review it. After reading the synopsis I dove into the book and I have been a fan ever since. I have made other readers in my life fans as well. There is just something so loveable about Brandy and these books; they’re just the right kind of comfort reading. I always feel like I am reading about and visiting with good friends.
In this 5th book, Brandy is witness to a cop being shot and while trying to save him she is forced to defend herself and ends up shooting the gang member who later dies. This gets Brandy wrapped up in 100 kinds of trouble. Luckily, the hunky men in her life, past and present, are there to help pick up the pieces and kiss the hurts. (If only we all had a Nick and Bobby at our sides *purrs*)
While there is a healthy dose of humor, this tale was more emotional to me. I don’t know if my empathy levels are off the charts but I was crying and worrying and feeling everything that Brandy was feeling. Some of it, like the jealousy and the hopelessness and doubts, wasn’t easy to swallow, but so real to life and true to the integrity of the book and characters; it only enhanced my reading experience.
Every time I read one of these books, I am left grinning and wanting another one, soon. The author, unfortunately, likes to torture me with long waits between books! That’s OK though because I’ll enjoy rereading these while I wait.
If you’ve never read a Brandy Alexander Mystery, do yourself a favor and start with the first book in the series. If you, like me, are a returning fan, you won’t be disappointed. Shelly Fredman makes a habit out of topping herself. I loved it!
No Such Thing as a Secret
No Such Thing as a Good Blind Date
No Such Thing as a Free Lunch
No Such Thing as a Free Ride
No Such Thing as a Lost Cause
Cherise Everhard, December 2012
In this 5th book, Brandy is witness to a cop being shot and while trying to save him she is forced to defend herself and ends up shooting the gang member who later dies. This gets Brandy wrapped up in 100 kinds of trouble. Luckily, the hunky men in her life, past and present, are there to help pick up the pieces and kiss the hurts. (If only we all had a Nick and Bobby at our sides *purrs*)
While there is a healthy dose of humor, this tale was more emotional to me. I don’t know if my empathy levels are off the charts but I was crying and worrying and feeling everything that Brandy was feeling. Some of it, like the jealousy and the hopelessness and doubts, wasn’t easy to swallow, but so real to life and true to the integrity of the book and characters; it only enhanced my reading experience.
Every time I read one of these books, I am left grinning and wanting another one, soon. The author, unfortunately, likes to torture me with long waits between books! That’s OK though because I’ll enjoy rereading these while I wait.
If you’ve never read a Brandy Alexander Mystery, do yourself a favor and start with the first book in the series. If you, like me, are a returning fan, you won’t be disappointed. Shelly Fredman makes a habit out of topping herself. I loved it!
No Such Thing as a Secret
No Such Thing as a Good Blind Date
No Such Thing as a Free Lunch
No Such Thing as a Free Ride
No Such Thing as a Lost Cause
Cherise Everhard, December 2012
January 6, 2013
They just keep getting better! This time Brandy finds a dead dog in a trunk along with one that is almost dead. But that discovery leads her down many different roads both in her investigation and her private life, and of course her life is put in danger many times. This book will have you laughing, crying, screaming at Brandy,and in the end fist pumping. I was so totally involved in it, I even was craving Philly cheese steak. Can't wait for the next one to come out.
December 24, 2012
This series just doesn't disappoint! This is the fifth book in a great mystery/romance series and you know its the fifth book. The characters have all grown and learned. Its funny, believable and one of the best series out there in its genre.
January 29, 2013
Chick-Lit with a bite! I'm new to the Brandy Alexander series and now have some serious catching up to do. First of all, I couldn't have pulled off the combo of the dark and dangerous world of dog fighting with the humor, romance and sweetness that was wrapped throughout this read. Kudos to author Shelly Fredman to accomplish this in such a skilled way. A very entertaining read.
I know a lot of readers are talking about Brandy's romance interests -- you know who you are Team Nick or Team Bobby -- but I've got to tell you the subplot that had me in stitches was the John - Garrett adventures.
I don't think this is a spoiler - but the way this book ended had me cheering. Way to go talented author! Keep 'em coming!
I know a lot of readers are talking about Brandy's romance interests -- you know who you are Team Nick or Team Bobby -- but I've got to tell you the subplot that had me in stitches was the John - Garrett adventures.
I don't think this is a spoiler - but the way this book ended had me cheering. Way to go talented author! Keep 'em coming!
January 11, 2015
I really enjoyed this series. Brandy Alexander is a fun and likeable character who keeps getting herself into trouble by trying to help someone and is great at putting all the pieces together whether the detectives on the case want her help or not. This is the latest installment of the "No Such Thing As...." series. There were times I wanted to strangle Brandy and her insecurities with her and Nick's relationship but loved her inner dialog with herself about the whole thing plus her jealously over Bobby new girl. And I wanted to cheer at how she handled her and Nick's (sigh!) relationship at the end of the book. The whole cast of characters in this series provides some great laughs and you will be able to relate to at least one of them.
August 19, 2019
I have enjoyed these books so much and really hate that I've read the last one available now. Next on my agenda is to go through my Kindle and highlight all of my favorite parts.
Brandy is slightly immature emotionally, but has a wonderful and entertaining group of friends surrounding her. I can honestly say that I enjoyed each of the secondary characters and what they brought to the series. They enhanced my enjoyment of the books, rather than detracting from it.
Nick Santiago is now one of my all-time favorite fictional men. I now dream of hearing "Hello, Angel" one day.
Shelly Fredman has done a wonderful job with character development and growth. I can't recommend this series highly enough.
Brandy is slightly immature emotionally, but has a wonderful and entertaining group of friends surrounding her. I can honestly say that I enjoyed each of the secondary characters and what they brought to the series. They enhanced my enjoyment of the books, rather than detracting from it.
Nick Santiago is now one of my all-time favorite fictional men. I now dream of hearing "Hello, Angel" one day.
Shelly Fredman has done a wonderful job with character development and growth. I can't recommend this series highly enough.
January 24, 2013
Love Brandy, love Nick and I even love Bobby (hate that name though, it makes me think of Dallas and the way JR said the name) I hate to see her have to choose... wish she could just have both of them, but it's just not that kind of book. lol The thing I really love about these books it that you see growth and change in each book. I love seeing her with Nick, but the scenes with Bobby just broke my heart, when I wasn't laughing that is. I can't wait for the next one, to see how her relationships develop and change.
January 24, 2013
The latest installment in the Brandy Alexander series was wonderful. Shelly did a beautiful job on touching on such a hard topic, and Brandy handled it so well. She showed a great emotional turmoil for someone who was starting out in a new relationship. Given that Nick is a wonderful man of mystery (and I'm soooo on Team Nick here) it's understandable for Brandy to be uncertain a lot of the time, especially given the long time relationship she had with Bobby.
Once again, Shelly has captured my attention and has me wanting more! :-) Fabulous job!
Once again, Shelly has captured my attention and has me wanting more! :-) Fabulous job!
January 27, 2013
I absolutely adore this series. I can not wait for more to be revealed on these character's lives. Will Nick get over his fears, will Brandy remain available, is Bobby really into this other woman or is he playing with fire??? Will anything get resolved? Will it be Nick/Brandy or Bobby/Brandy?? Is Brandy really in love with Nick or is she using him because she's to scared to give into her love for Bobby?? Hmmm I guess I'll just have to wait and see!
February 26, 2013
I have always liked this series from the first book and it keeps getting better. What can I say if your a fan of Nick there is plenty to be had, Brandy as usual is her funny self but in this one she is having so much self doubt I hope she is in for a change for the better in the next one. Thank god for the ending no cliff hanger to be seen this time although I was worried we were going to have a teary ending but it worked out right in the last couple of pages.
January 13, 2013
I can't help loving this series. Great characters, laughing, crying, excitement and angst. Brandy is maturing and evolving in positive ways. Looking forward to the final book.
April 24, 2013
Two-haiku review:
Brandy falls afoul
Of some really evil guys
Dog fights and torching
Not for weak of heart
Sensitive subject matter
Too many errors
Brandy falls afoul
Of some really evil guys
Dog fights and torching
Not for weak of heart
Sensitive subject matter
Too many errors
November 13, 2022
Brandy is on a ride along when she's involved in an officer shooting that uncovers an illegal dog fighting ring. She shoots the shooter and is the target of a gang enforced hit. Trying to stay safe while digging into ties among the gang and an enforcer who likes to torch his victims has her in too many suspects cross hairs. Spending more time with Nick has Brandy falling more in love and they are exclusive but I was disappointed with how much of her self esteem and now paranoia are putting a damper on their relationship along with Nick's secret work. She loves Nick but is still jealous that Bobby is moving on with his life. Her and John's friendship has been strained since his new relationship with Garrett and her dependence on Franny is more subdued since the baby was born leaving Janine to help with crisis. Drive by shootings and fights have Brandy running out of her nine lives she seems to have. I hope this series gets back on track with Brandy being back to a strong female lead along with her girlfriends and her friendship with John and the startling happening with Nick.
March 6, 2019
Back on point, good story
June 24, 2019
Still love the characters this mystery wasn’t as interesting to me as the last one but still a run read.
December 28, 2012
Brandy.. Brandy.. Brandy.. thank god you are not pregnant!!!!!
You gotta love Brandy for her sarcasm and wit as she gets in over her head once again. The story revolves around animal abuse and dog fighting, educating the readers with out getting on a soap box. Brandy unwittingly stumbles into a police shooting, while protecting the shot cop, she shoots a gang banger. It makes Utube and the threats on her life begins. The gang banger is killed and Brandy's curiosity gets the best of her as she looks into why suddenly everyone is turning up dead. Not everything is what it seems as the true killer is revealed and the cops once again have to give the credit to Brandy. Brandy still has her insecurities as she deals with her relationship issues with Nick. And, her jealousy over John and Bobby finding some one special.
You gotta love Brandy for her sarcasm and wit as she gets in over her head once again. The story revolves around animal abuse and dog fighting, educating the readers with out getting on a soap box. Brandy unwittingly stumbles into a police shooting, while protecting the shot cop, she shoots a gang banger. It makes Utube and the threats on her life begins. The gang banger is killed and Brandy's curiosity gets the best of her as she looks into why suddenly everyone is turning up dead. Not everything is what it seems as the true killer is revealed and the cops once again have to give the credit to Brandy. Brandy still has her insecurities as she deals with her relationship issues with Nick. And, her jealousy over John and Bobby finding some one special.
January 31, 2015
I love this series!
Sally Fredman is the real deal. These books are fun humorous and have a social conscious. The stories are compelling and she hasn't disappointed me yet. She doesn't fall back on easy plot devices to draw you in and keep you wanting more, she does it with solid writing. In other series i've read authors don't allow their lead characters any authentic growth, they keep them penned in love triangles and limbo over life choices for an unnaturally long time just to keep the series going. Thanks to Ms. Fredman for treating her readers and her characters with respect.
Sally Fredman is the real deal. These books are fun humorous and have a social conscious. The stories are compelling and she hasn't disappointed me yet. She doesn't fall back on easy plot devices to draw you in and keep you wanting more, she does it with solid writing. In other series i've read authors don't allow their lead characters any authentic growth, they keep them penned in love triangles and limbo over life choices for an unnaturally long time just to keep the series going. Thanks to Ms. Fredman for treating her readers and her characters with respect.
June 3, 2013
If you are looking for a good summer read you can't go wrong with Shelly Fredman's Brandy Alexander series. The latest book in this great series is NO SUCH THING AS LOST CAUSE. It takes on a very difficult subject with sensitivity and justice along with a bit of fun and adventure. If you like Janet Evanovich, Lisa Lutz, Molly Harper and Lois Greiman, you will love Shelly. Her books are available in digital as well as 'dead tree' versions. Give her a try. You won't regret.
June 15, 2014
I loved this series!I read it from start to finish with nothing in between and I enjoyed every book.
But,with this last book,I felt like we took a step backwards,at least regarding Brandy's relationship with .
Brandy actually surprised me.She's tough now,didn't really need anyone to rescue her anymore.
I hope there will be more books in the series,because I absolutely will read them.
But,with this last book,I felt like we took a step backwards,at least regarding Brandy's relationship with .
Brandy actually surprised me.She's tough now,didn't really need anyone to rescue her anymore.
I hope there will be more books in the series,because I absolutely will read them.
May 15, 2014
I found Brandy Alexander Mysteries about 5 days ago and in those 5 days I've read all 5 books (sometimes reading until 3 am :)) Actually, I've just finished a Lost Cause and I am crying like an idiot. Yeah, it might make you cry, but you will also laugh a lot. I am hooked, I am addicted, and I hope to read the next book very soon.
Thank you, Shelly!
Thank you, Shelly!
January 19, 2016
This was the best book out of the series! And what an incredibly moving and strong ending to a book. I love the main character, Brandy, so much. She's strong yet vulnerable and the author knows exactly when to show each of her attributes. I love seeing how her and Nick's character grow in each book.
April 19, 2015
Brandy chose a man, but she can't let go of the other man and is full of jealousy when he dates. And with the man she chose, there is jealousy, insecurity, questions, etc. So not happy with the relationship aspect if this.
February 20, 2013
LOVED this book! I think it's my favorite of all so far. The ending was perfect! Can't wait for the next one!
April 8, 2013
Loved it! When can we expect #6?!!!!
April 16, 2013
Can't wait for the next installment!
May 26, 2013
This series was terrific and I laughed until the last word. The only big problem I have is the waiting for the next book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews