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A Rainey & Levine Thriller #2
Crosshairs
They thought the nightmare was over. Intern Jill Raney and the man she loves, obstetrical resident David Levine, barely escaped death at the hands of a madman on the steep roof of an old part of the hospital. The awful scene, captured by overhead news choppers, became a media obsession, run horrifyingly over and over. Jill and David are now reluctant "celebrities" - and the targets of every wacko who wants to share in the attention.
Including a killer. Someone who begins venting his fury at their "fame" by his hideous assaults on women - assaults which Jill and David discover are also death threats to them, and to a 6-month-old baby who has yet to be born.
Their predator is clever. Haughty. Leaves cryptic "clues" to taunt them and the police, who are at a loss. He knows how to leave no physical evidence behind. No prints, no fibers, no eyewitnesses.
Jill and David must still return to their exhausting hospital duties, knowing that any psycho can just walk into a hospital. Friends beg David, who is a crack shot, to carry a gun, but he doesn't. "What's the use?" he asks. "A doctor's back is always turned."
Instead, Jill and David join forces to become detectives on their own, helping the police in ways that even forensics experts never imagined; working frantically to uncover an unspeakable secret that dooms their fate and that of a sweet-faced, unborn child...unless they can put an end to an obsessed killer's twisted quest.
Including a killer. Someone who begins venting his fury at their "fame" by his hideous assaults on women - assaults which Jill and David discover are also death threats to them, and to a 6-month-old baby who has yet to be born.
Their predator is clever. Haughty. Leaves cryptic "clues" to taunt them and the police, who are at a loss. He knows how to leave no physical evidence behind. No prints, no fibers, no eyewitnesses.
Jill and David must still return to their exhausting hospital duties, knowing that any psycho can just walk into a hospital. Friends beg David, who is a crack shot, to carry a gun, but he doesn't. "What's the use?" he asks. "A doctor's back is always turned."
Instead, Jill and David join forces to become detectives on their own, helping the police in ways that even forensics experts never imagined; working frantically to uncover an unspeakable secret that dooms their fate and that of a sweet-faced, unborn child...unless they can put an end to an obsessed killer's twisted quest.
228 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 29, 2013
103 people are currently reading
482 people want to read
About the author
J.A. Schneider
17 books572 followersWheaton College, Norton MA (French Lit Major, Minor in Spanish & squeezed in Russian.)
Sorbonne, Jr. Year in Paris
Exchange student in the Soviet Union, where I got arrested for spreading anti-Soviet propaganda - ugh. Caught with friends laughing at their pea-green-colored drinking water; that was the offense; four of us arrested. Let go after a day, guess they decided we weren't worth an international incident...
Now excited about my new upcoming thriller, THE GIRL THIEF! Release May 30!
Former writer at Newsweek Magazine. Author of the 6-book EMBRYO medical thriller series; the 4-book Detective Kerri Blasco Police/Psychological Thrillers FEAR DREAMS, HER LAST BREATH, WATCHING YOU, & SHOELESS CHILD.
Also 7 standalone thrillers: INTO THE DARK, GIRL WATCHING YOU, WHAT YOU'VE DONE, CRY TO ME, THE WIFE LIST & THE GIRL THIEF. Also the U.S. Civil War thriller, KATE WARNE'S SISTER IS MISSING. (She was America's first female detective and a Pinkerton. The story takes place in NYC - a pro-South hotbed - at the outbreak of the Civil War.)
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/joyce.schnei...
Twitter https://twitter.com/JoyceSchneider1
Website: https://jaschneiderauthor.net
Sorbonne, Jr. Year in Paris
Exchange student in the Soviet Union, where I got arrested for spreading anti-Soviet propaganda - ugh. Caught with friends laughing at their pea-green-colored drinking water; that was the offense; four of us arrested. Let go after a day, guess they decided we weren't worth an international incident...
Now excited about my new upcoming thriller, THE GIRL THIEF! Release May 30!
Former writer at Newsweek Magazine. Author of the 6-book EMBRYO medical thriller series; the 4-book Detective Kerri Blasco Police/Psychological Thrillers FEAR DREAMS, HER LAST BREATH, WATCHING YOU, & SHOELESS CHILD.
Also 7 standalone thrillers: INTO THE DARK, GIRL WATCHING YOU, WHAT YOU'VE DONE, CRY TO ME, THE WIFE LIST & THE GIRL THIEF. Also the U.S. Civil War thriller, KATE WARNE'S SISTER IS MISSING. (She was America's first female detective and a Pinkerton. The story takes place in NYC - a pro-South hotbed - at the outbreak of the Civil War.)
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/joyce.schnei...
Twitter https://twitter.com/JoyceSchneider1
Website: https://jaschneiderauthor.net
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
July 18, 2013
With the conclusion of Embryo, Intern Jill Raney and Obstetrician David Levine were finally safe; their nightmare was over, the maniac was dead and everyone could breathe a sigh of relief. But were they safe? With Jill and David on three days leave to recuperate from the trauma, they reluctantly returned to work feeling drained, tired and in need of more time off. This is where Embryo 2 commences, so the two stories blend well.
Bombarded by crowds of waiting media and onlookers as they tried to enter the hospital, they were shocked to learn of their “celebrity status”. Everyone wanted a piece of them, handing them flowers, wanting autographs; obsession didn’t cover it. Jill and David were ushered through the crowd to be greeted by their friends and colleagues with tears and hugs. They were told their first day back would be quiet so they could settle back in…it wasn’t meant to be, with David being called immediately to a delivery, and Jill to an emergency.
Suddenly the horror was beginning again, with women being brutally raped and attacked, and a message written on each victims’ stomach. With the police immediately involved, they worked out that the two of them were being targeted once again, with death threats against them, plus the six month old unborn fetus; the miracle in the test tube.
Pushed to investigate the current atrocities, Jill and David hoped to save the lives of others as well as their own. But the madman who was after them was devious, sly, obsessed and completely off the radar. The clues were miniscule but they were there. As the pace picked up, the clock was ticking and the race was on. Would they find the psychopathic killer before it was too late? Would Jill and David survive this time? And what about Jesse?
I absolutely loved this book! A brilliant follow up to the first novel by Schneider, and I’ve just learned there’s a third in the works! A medical thriller of gripping proportions, I encourage everyone who loves a good psychological thriller to give this series a go!
Bombarded by crowds of waiting media and onlookers as they tried to enter the hospital, they were shocked to learn of their “celebrity status”. Everyone wanted a piece of them, handing them flowers, wanting autographs; obsession didn’t cover it. Jill and David were ushered through the crowd to be greeted by their friends and colleagues with tears and hugs. They were told their first day back would be quiet so they could settle back in…it wasn’t meant to be, with David being called immediately to a delivery, and Jill to an emergency.
Suddenly the horror was beginning again, with women being brutally raped and attacked, and a message written on each victims’ stomach. With the police immediately involved, they worked out that the two of them were being targeted once again, with death threats against them, plus the six month old unborn fetus; the miracle in the test tube.
Pushed to investigate the current atrocities, Jill and David hoped to save the lives of others as well as their own. But the madman who was after them was devious, sly, obsessed and completely off the radar. The clues were miniscule but they were there. As the pace picked up, the clock was ticking and the race was on. Would they find the psychopathic killer before it was too late? Would Jill and David survive this time? And what about Jesse?
I absolutely loved this book! A brilliant follow up to the first novel by Schneider, and I’ve just learned there’s a third in the works! A medical thriller of gripping proportions, I encourage everyone who loves a good psychological thriller to give this series a go!
April 12, 2015
Just when obstetricians Jill Raney and David Levine think their nightmare is over, they realize that a crazed maniac is targeting them for revenge. He's raping women and leaving his mark on them as sickening messages to the famous pair. So once more, they team up with detectives to solve the mystery and find the lunatic before he finds them and before he can hurt anyone else--including innocent little Jesse (who was conceived in a Petri dish and developed in an artificial uterus).
This story will keep you guessing. Schneider writes a great medical thriller/mystery. Although it had been about two years since I read the first book, everything came right back to me, with the help of the author's references to prior events, and I felt as though I didn't miss a beat. This story is fine even for those who haven't read the first book, as it's completely stand-alone. It's a well-written, solid story with the added bonus of medical facts and jargon. Plus, humor! I definitely had a good laugh at the imagery this particular line evoked:
"She even diplomatically ducked an overweight guy demanding to have her examine his 'man titties.'"
Oookay then! :O
I greatly enjoyed this story. Now on to the third book, Raney & Levine!
This story will keep you guessing. Schneider writes a great medical thriller/mystery. Although it had been about two years since I read the first book, everything came right back to me, with the help of the author's references to prior events, and I felt as though I didn't miss a beat. This story is fine even for those who haven't read the first book, as it's completely stand-alone. It's a well-written, solid story with the added bonus of medical facts and jargon. Plus, humor! I definitely had a good laugh at the imagery this particular line evoked:
"She even diplomatically ducked an overweight guy demanding to have her examine his 'man titties.'"
Oookay then! :O
I greatly enjoyed this story. Now on to the third book, Raney & Levine!
July 6, 2013
I was given both of these books as a gift for an honest review and what a wonderful gift it was. Crosshairs takes off right where Embryo ended. Jill and David are trying to recover from the terror they experienced on the rooftop of the medical center. Jill is suffering nightmares and signs of PTSD. Soon she discovers the nightmares may soon become reality. The terror Jill and David experienced has thrown them both into the public spotlight, and into the path of a madman. They try to resume normal life, but soon realize their lives are still in danger. Crosshairs keeps you turning the pages far into the night as you try to guess who the villain is. All fans of medical thrillers, you must give this series a try. It has it all - action, suspense, romance! I know I will be eagerly awaiting the 3rd book in this series.
March 12, 2015
I have been wanting to read book 2 since I finished book 1 lol. Ok, it took me a few days to read it after I finished my previous book. But I could easily dip in and out of this book and knowing I will follow the pace.
It carries on from where book 1 left off. Jill Raney and David Levine are on a few days sabbatical due to the previous trauma (read Embryo to find out). They are shoved straight into the media attention as soon as they come back and STRAIGHT into danger all over again.
I guessed who the culprit was this time and it even made me think if I had the right 1 as they thought it was someone else. I am so glad I read this and the ending is great. Can't wait to dip into book 3 soon.
It carries on from where book 1 left off. Jill Raney and David Levine are on a few days sabbatical due to the previous trauma (read Embryo to find out). They are shoved straight into the media attention as soon as they come back and STRAIGHT into danger all over again.
I guessed who the culprit was this time and it even made me think if I had the right 1 as they thought it was someone else. I am so glad I read this and the ending is great. Can't wait to dip into book 3 soon.
April 25, 2019
Every bit as much of a suspenseful, tension-laced, jaw-dropping, thrill ride as the first!
January 17, 2016
By: J.A. Schneider
Published By: J.A. Schneider
Age Recommended: Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Review:
"Embryo 2" by J.A. Schneider was a wonderful sequel to 'Embryo' that turned out to be another good mystery thriller read. The author did a wonderful job with all of the twist and turns in the 'fast paced medical suspense and thriller.' You will find from this read again trying to figure out who this guilty person was. Truly all of the characters were so well developed and captivating only keeping you on the edge of your seat wondering what was coming next. All I can say is the writing of this novel gives the reader good writing and a awesome plot that was simply well done. This author has truly done her research with all of the medical terms thought the read. The hero and heroine of this read was simply off the chart in how they were a wonderful obstetrical team that solved medical problems, at the same time they both were faced with all the dangers from this crazy psychopathic rapist and murderer. It only left me saying Wow... what a read.
If you are into a good medical thriller with lots of suspense..."Embryo 2" will take you there and let's not forget about this author's first one...'Embryo' which really takes you to the second novel. Would I recommend? YES!
Published By: J.A. Schneider
Age Recommended: Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Review:
"Embryo 2" by J.A. Schneider was a wonderful sequel to 'Embryo' that turned out to be another good mystery thriller read. The author did a wonderful job with all of the twist and turns in the 'fast paced medical suspense and thriller.' You will find from this read again trying to figure out who this guilty person was. Truly all of the characters were so well developed and captivating only keeping you on the edge of your seat wondering what was coming next. All I can say is the writing of this novel gives the reader good writing and a awesome plot that was simply well done. This author has truly done her research with all of the medical terms thought the read. The hero and heroine of this read was simply off the chart in how they were a wonderful obstetrical team that solved medical problems, at the same time they both were faced with all the dangers from this crazy psychopathic rapist and murderer. It only left me saying Wow... what a read.
If you are into a good medical thriller with lots of suspense..."Embryo 2" will take you there and let's not forget about this author's first one...'Embryo' which really takes you to the second novel. Would I recommend? YES!
March 10, 2015
This is the second in the Embryo series and the action flows smoothly from the end of Book 1. There is enough background provided that it could be a stand alone novel, but I would not recommend that as the reader would miss so much of the good stuff.
Once again the action and suspense are non-stop and continue to make a good medical thriller.
Jill and David return to work several days after the ending of Book 1. In that book the work and experimentation of one crazy doctor were brought to light. Although he died, he left behind him what will end up being more controversial as the series continues. He created a life in a petrie dish and modified the genes and it was found gestating in artificially created womb. It was a fully viable fetus at the time it was found, so we're not just talking about a lot of "cells" here. Amazingly the "baby" now named Jessie is responsive to those around him even waving to those around him before his birth.
Jill and David's new concern in this volume is a brutal rapist who has decided to leave messages to the docs on the bellies of the women he has raped. This creep is the problem and mostly through Jill's detective skills they are able to put pieces together. Even the police say several times that Jill and David would have made great detectives and you know that in the future they will be working closely with the police. I loved the suspense as police and hospital staff try to identify the rapist and figure out what the message is that he wants to send to Jill and David. Like a good mystery, there are even red herrings as to the creep's identity. It wasn't until about 85% through that I figured out who the perp was and then there is the battle with him. All in all exciting and a wonderful plot.
Unfortunately there were two problems I had which force me to rate this book with 4 stars rather than 5. 1) In public, Jill is strong and determined forcing herself to overcome her fears left after what happened in book 1. But in private, she falls apart and needs to lean on her man for strength. I would have liked to have seen Jill being the strong one for David as well and his being close to meltdown himself sometimes. 2) There were some grammar and usage errors and this book needed more thorough editing.
In spite of those problems is was a great read. I loved seeing the return of supporting characters and getting to know them a little better. I liked the fact that the rest of the team of doctors who were harassing Jill and David, calling for Jill's internship to be ended, now actually apologizing to her and thanking her for what she had done in exposing the "bad apple" on their team of genetic counseling doctors. She is now respected as well as accepted.
All in all a great book that has me anxious to continue the series. I am particularly anxious to discover is Jessie will be "just like any other kid" or be the superhuman his originator claimed he would be.
Once again the action and suspense are non-stop and continue to make a good medical thriller.
Jill and David return to work several days after the ending of Book 1. In that book the work and experimentation of one crazy doctor were brought to light. Although he died, he left behind him what will end up being more controversial as the series continues. He created a life in a petrie dish and modified the genes and it was found gestating in artificially created womb. It was a fully viable fetus at the time it was found, so we're not just talking about a lot of "cells" here. Amazingly the "baby" now named Jessie is responsive to those around him even waving to those around him before his birth.
Jill and David's new concern in this volume is a brutal rapist who has decided to leave messages to the docs on the bellies of the women he has raped. This creep is the problem and mostly through Jill's detective skills they are able to put pieces together. Even the police say several times that Jill and David would have made great detectives and you know that in the future they will be working closely with the police. I loved the suspense as police and hospital staff try to identify the rapist and figure out what the message is that he wants to send to Jill and David. Like a good mystery, there are even red herrings as to the creep's identity. It wasn't until about 85% through that I figured out who the perp was and then there is the battle with him. All in all exciting and a wonderful plot.
Unfortunately there were two problems I had which force me to rate this book with 4 stars rather than 5. 1) In public, Jill is strong and determined forcing herself to overcome her fears left after what happened in book 1. But in private, she falls apart and needs to lean on her man for strength. I would have liked to have seen Jill being the strong one for David as well and his being close to meltdown himself sometimes. 2) There were some grammar and usage errors and this book needed more thorough editing.
In spite of those problems is was a great read. I loved seeing the return of supporting characters and getting to know them a little better. I liked the fact that the rest of the team of doctors who were harassing Jill and David, calling for Jill's internship to be ended, now actually apologizing to her and thanking her for what she had done in exposing the "bad apple" on their team of genetic counseling doctors. She is now respected as well as accepted.
All in all a great book that has me anxious to continue the series. I am particularly anxious to discover is Jessie will be "just like any other kid" or be the superhuman his originator claimed he would be.
February 19, 2014
EMBRYO 2 is the continuation of the wonderful story we read in EMBRYO. We follow along with the hospital intern and resident, Jill and David. After a few days rest to recover from the turmoil caused by a crazy doctor, the two are back at work. Now being treated like celebrities, they are being fussed over by both fellow doctors and patients. Things are hectic as they attempt to find some normalcy. To further complicate things, a victim enters the hospital bearing a cryptic message, the first of many. Evidence points to a killer that is targeting the hospital's latest heroes. Jill and David must work together, along side the investigators, in hopes of uncovering the secret villain.
Another superb book by the author. (I am now a devoted fan!) The same dynamic characters, only with more suspense and more twists that will leave you on the edge of your seat. The author's word usage, much like in the first book, puts the reader in the hospital--seeing what the characters see, feeling what they feel. Throughout this book, we get to see those same wonderful relationships--between Jill and David, between the interns, between the doctors and interns. There's an underlying emphasis on those friendships we see. They protect each other, support each other. This adds a nice element, that goes beyond suspense and mystery. This book, the series for that matter, is deserving of more than 5 stars. The author has created this place and these characters, that you can't help but fall in love with. At the end of each book, you are anxious to see what happens next. I was thrilled to see that EMBRYO 3 is in the works. It will definitely be on my must-read.
Another superb book by the author. (I am now a devoted fan!) The same dynamic characters, only with more suspense and more twists that will leave you on the edge of your seat. The author's word usage, much like in the first book, puts the reader in the hospital--seeing what the characters see, feeling what they feel. Throughout this book, we get to see those same wonderful relationships--between Jill and David, between the interns, between the doctors and interns. There's an underlying emphasis on those friendships we see. They protect each other, support each other. This adds a nice element, that goes beyond suspense and mystery. This book, the series for that matter, is deserving of more than 5 stars. The author has created this place and these characters, that you can't help but fall in love with. At the end of each book, you are anxious to see what happens next. I was thrilled to see that EMBRYO 3 is in the works. It will definitely be on my must-read.
March 9, 2014
After being hooked on the first 'Embryo' I had to read the second. I wanted to see where David and Jill's relationship went and what new adventures they may find themselves in.
Needless to say, J.A. Schneider did not let us down!
After the terrible excitement ends (in the first Embryo) we find the loving couple taking a few days off before returning back to work. The two are now famous and even their co-workers are acting weird. Patients are coming in just to see them and as if fame isn't bad enough, rape victims begin showing up with cryptic messages on them.
Together, once again, David and Jill know they have to do their own investigating if they are to get to the bottom of this. Work isn't even a safe haven anymore as they have to watch their backs inside the hospital and outside of it.
The worst part of all, is that Jill and David aren't just the only targets this psycho is after, but the test tube baby who hasn't even been 'born' yet.
Fantastic job on the continual development of Jill and David's relationship. This was another action packed thriller that left me guessing and trying to solve the puzzle along with the characters. Just when I thought I had it figured out, the story took a twist and I was wrong!
Really looking forward to book 3! I can't say that the first or the second in this series is better than the other because i think they are both fantastic. I loved how the story picked right up from where the first one left off and we continued to follow these characters and this world as it continued to flourish!
Needless to say, J.A. Schneider did not let us down!
After the terrible excitement ends (in the first Embryo) we find the loving couple taking a few days off before returning back to work. The two are now famous and even their co-workers are acting weird. Patients are coming in just to see them and as if fame isn't bad enough, rape victims begin showing up with cryptic messages on them.
Together, once again, David and Jill know they have to do their own investigating if they are to get to the bottom of this. Work isn't even a safe haven anymore as they have to watch their backs inside the hospital and outside of it.
The worst part of all, is that Jill and David aren't just the only targets this psycho is after, but the test tube baby who hasn't even been 'born' yet.
Fantastic job on the continual development of Jill and David's relationship. This was another action packed thriller that left me guessing and trying to solve the puzzle along with the characters. Just when I thought I had it figured out, the story took a twist and I was wrong!
Really looking forward to book 3! I can't say that the first or the second in this series is better than the other because i think they are both fantastic. I loved how the story picked right up from where the first one left off and we continued to follow these characters and this world as it continued to flourish!
April 13, 2015
This is #2 in the Embryo series, and continues the story of Jill, an intern at a teaching hospital, David, a resident at the same hospital, and Jesse, an embryo created in a petri dish by a deranged fertility research doctor in a secret attic lab, and currently growing in an artiricial womb that was removed from the secret lab to the NICU of the OB floorof the hospital. Joining the cast of characters are Jill and David's colleagues from EMBRYO , much of the same hospital staff, and a few new characters.
Jesse is endangered by religious zealots claiming that he is the Devil's spawn, among other things. Even the hospital is threatened by person(s) unknown. Jill and David have also received threats and clues from what appears to be a serial killer.
The hospital administration tries to capitalize on the miracle baby Jesse, to turn the public eye from the terrible things that took place at their fertility clinic toward the more positive things and their record of successful pregnancies carried full term.
While I have read better medical thrillers, I still gave it 3-1/2 STARS, ROUNDED TO 4 because this is another "WHAT IF? " book. With today's technology, these things COULD happen, and so could all the reactions. And of course, many twists and turns lead to the conclusion. I will seek out embryo 3, 4,and 5 just because I want to know more of what happens.
Jesse is endangered by religious zealots claiming that he is the Devil's spawn, among other things. Even the hospital is threatened by person(s) unknown. Jill and David have also received threats and clues from what appears to be a serial killer.
The hospital administration tries to capitalize on the miracle baby Jesse, to turn the public eye from the terrible things that took place at their fertility clinic toward the more positive things and their record of successful pregnancies carried full term.
While I have read better medical thrillers, I still gave it 3-1/2 STARS, ROUNDED TO 4 because this is another "WHAT IF? " book. With today's technology, these things COULD happen, and so could all the reactions. And of course, many twists and turns lead to the conclusion. I will seek out embryo 3, 4,and 5 just because I want to know more of what happens.
July 5, 2013
We left Jill and David thinking it was all over. They fought the good fight, saved countless lives and yet…even still with lack of sleep the ever so curious Jill has found a way to get them into more trouble as she finds herself the target for another plot of evil.
While I read I began to wonder why she didn’t just find another internship, move away start fresh. Instead she braved the elements with her beloved David once more as women began to be brutalized and sent to the ER with messages on their bellies meant for the two love birds.
Who was after them now?
J.A. Schneider really connected her audience with this sequel. We find ourselves following Jill as she uncovers so much more than she bargained for to not only save innocent women from being attacked on her behalf, but a helpless innocent life that started out as a miracle.
Both Books were edgy, well written and well rounded. I would recommend these books to anyone who loves shows like Trauma life in the ER, Grey’s Anatomy etc… you can really connect with the story and characters as if sitting in front of the television and watching it happen in real time.
While I read I began to wonder why she didn’t just find another internship, move away start fresh. Instead she braved the elements with her beloved David once more as women began to be brutalized and sent to the ER with messages on their bellies meant for the two love birds.
Who was after them now?
J.A. Schneider really connected her audience with this sequel. We find ourselves following Jill as she uncovers so much more than she bargained for to not only save innocent women from being attacked on her behalf, but a helpless innocent life that started out as a miracle.
Both Books were edgy, well written and well rounded. I would recommend these books to anyone who loves shows like Trauma life in the ER, Grey’s Anatomy etc… you can really connect with the story and characters as if sitting in front of the television and watching it happen in real time.
July 7, 2013
SCHNEIDER NAILS IT AGAIN
When you see the covers of Embryo and Embryo II you know you are looking at something special. These are first novels for new author J. A. Schneider, who has done a spectacular job with both of them. That would be impressive enough but the fact that they are medical thrillers and that she is not a physician just knocks it out of the park. (However, her long time husband is a physician who has shared many harrowing hospital cases with her.)
I loved Embryo. Embryo II is well done and certainly is a grade A sequel. I'm sad-faced to admit that I didn't like it as well as Embryo, but in a word, well, two words: So what. Many people liked it better, so there you go.
The author gifted me this book in exchange for an honest review, however after reading Embryo I would have purchased the sequel, post haste. I love medical thrillers so I will be watching for her next book and hoping she doesn't change genres. She's very good at this hospital stuff. Really. I highly recommend both Embryo and Embryo II. Schneider will keep the little hairs raised on the back of your neck, and probably send a few chills down your spine. Keep the lights on.
When you see the covers of Embryo and Embryo II you know you are looking at something special. These are first novels for new author J. A. Schneider, who has done a spectacular job with both of them. That would be impressive enough but the fact that they are medical thrillers and that she is not a physician just knocks it out of the park. (However, her long time husband is a physician who has shared many harrowing hospital cases with her.)
I loved Embryo. Embryo II is well done and certainly is a grade A sequel. I'm sad-faced to admit that I didn't like it as well as Embryo, but in a word, well, two words: So what. Many people liked it better, so there you go.
The author gifted me this book in exchange for an honest review, however after reading Embryo I would have purchased the sequel, post haste. I love medical thrillers so I will be watching for her next book and hoping she doesn't change genres. She's very good at this hospital stuff. Really. I highly recommend both Embryo and Embryo II. Schneider will keep the little hairs raised on the back of your neck, and probably send a few chills down your spine. Keep the lights on.
July 10, 2013
Wow! I really loved Embryo so immediately started this one the second I finished reading it. The plot restarts exactly where Embryo left off which made the book flow nicely into the next sequence of events.
The main characters feature again in Embryo 2: Crosshairs and it was great to see them all develop more as the story progressed. This book had my heart thumping many times, again it took a lot to tear me away from my Kindle. There were some truly scary parts in this book (I don't think I'll ever look at a chicken in the same way again!!) The clown ~ arrrgh... I truly dislike clowns and this made me even more certain of that fact!!
I am now eagerly awaiting part 3 of Embryo ~ it's sure to be a great success. I'm really looking forward to seeing what will be thrown at the characters next!
I received Embryo 2: Crosshairs from the author in exchange of a fair and honest review. Many Thanks Joyce, please keep writing you're a true favourite author of mine now.
The main characters feature again in Embryo 2: Crosshairs and it was great to see them all develop more as the story progressed. This book had my heart thumping many times, again it took a lot to tear me away from my Kindle. There were some truly scary parts in this book (I don't think I'll ever look at a chicken in the same way again!!) The clown ~ arrrgh... I truly dislike clowns and this made me even more certain of that fact!!
I am now eagerly awaiting part 3 of Embryo ~ it's sure to be a great success. I'm really looking forward to seeing what will be thrown at the characters next!
I received Embryo 2: Crosshairs from the author in exchange of a fair and honest review. Many Thanks Joyce, please keep writing you're a true favourite author of mine now.
October 17, 2013
Fast Paced And Brilliantly Written!
Ms Schneider has done it again! After the heart-racing read of "Embryo", the first book in this series, Embryo 2 : Crosshairs, does not fail to disappoint. Fast paced and full of continual intrigue Ms Schneider successfully transports her readers into a realm of medical drama that easily competes with such writers as Chricton and Cook, although Ms Schneider is a far superior writer than the latter author, her concepts and ideas are an easy match for Chricton lovers of medical drama.
It isn't essential that you read the first novel first, but you would be missing out on so much if you did. I wouldn't personally recommend reading Embryo 2 before reading Embryo.
It takes a great deal to please me when reading medical thrillers because so many are too thin on authentic medical procedures and terms. Ms Schneider's books fulfil every criteria for readers who enjoy this genre! My one wish is that the author writes more!!
Brava Ms J Schneider!
Ms Schneider has done it again! After the heart-racing read of "Embryo", the first book in this series, Embryo 2 : Crosshairs, does not fail to disappoint. Fast paced and full of continual intrigue Ms Schneider successfully transports her readers into a realm of medical drama that easily competes with such writers as Chricton and Cook, although Ms Schneider is a far superior writer than the latter author, her concepts and ideas are an easy match for Chricton lovers of medical drama.
It isn't essential that you read the first novel first, but you would be missing out on so much if you did. I wouldn't personally recommend reading Embryo 2 before reading Embryo.
It takes a great deal to please me when reading medical thrillers because so many are too thin on authentic medical procedures and terms. Ms Schneider's books fulfil every criteria for readers who enjoy this genre! My one wish is that the author writes more!!
Brava Ms J Schneider!
July 27, 2014
I loved book 1 and I liked this one a lot too. This is not at all a stand a lone novel, Id recommend reading book 1 first then the rest. Sometimes saying the plot was a little scattered in this one, but I thought the plot overall was good and kept with the energy of book one. The criminals and the characters were nicely written.
If you are a fan of medical thrillers this is for you, otherwise I will say a lot of medical terminology will be redundant and not easily understood. If you know a little bit about this background I know the series will be great for you too. What I liked was how the characters can be doctors and also go after the bad guys. I dont know any doctors who can jump and do a roof chase, but I am sure that there are a few. Overall another fast paced book for thriller and mystery lovers.
If you are a fan of medical thrillers this is for you, otherwise I will say a lot of medical terminology will be redundant and not easily understood. If you know a little bit about this background I know the series will be great for you too. What I liked was how the characters can be doctors and also go after the bad guys. I dont know any doctors who can jump and do a roof chase, but I am sure that there are a few. Overall another fast paced book for thriller and mystery lovers.
May 5, 2013
I loved this book! It was a sequel to Embryo and although I didn't think it was possible, this book was even more exciting! It is a very fast paced medical thriller, packed full of suspense.
The author gave me a copy of the book to read and give an honest review. I can tell you this is a book that is now selling for $2.99 and it is worth every bit of that and more!
The plot keeps you wondering with the twists and turns that the author has added to make me read late into the night. Sleep, who needs it? Yet I hated to see this book come to the end. The characters were very likable and I hope to read more about them in future books.
If medical thrillers are a genre you like, this one will become a favorite! I'm hoping the author has much more in store for her readers!
The author gave me a copy of the book to read and give an honest review. I can tell you this is a book that is now selling for $2.99 and it is worth every bit of that and more!
The plot keeps you wondering with the twists and turns that the author has added to make me read late into the night. Sleep, who needs it? Yet I hated to see this book come to the end. The characters were very likable and I hope to read more about them in future books.
If medical thrillers are a genre you like, this one will become a favorite! I'm hoping the author has much more in store for her readers!
July 9, 2013
This is a continuation of the story from Embryo. It can be read independently, but I would not recommend it.
In Embryo 2, Drs. Jill Raney & David Levine return to work after the events of Embryo. They face their daily turmoils as well as a new yet connected stalker.
Aside from one section of text that repeated itself early in the book (not sure if that was a download or editing error), I enjoyed this book more than the first one. Either it was me knowing the characters already or they actually were more fully flushed/rounded out.
As with the first book, the writing is griping and intense.
Definitely a well written enjoyable tale!
In Embryo 2, Drs. Jill Raney & David Levine return to work after the events of Embryo. They face their daily turmoils as well as a new yet connected stalker.
Aside from one section of text that repeated itself early in the book (not sure if that was a download or editing error), I enjoyed this book more than the first one. Either it was me knowing the characters already or they actually were more fully flushed/rounded out.
As with the first book, the writing is griping and intense.
Definitely a well written enjoyable tale!
June 17, 2015
The author manages to create another intriguing story line involving David and Jill. The pacing and plot line came together nicely. It's easy to see why the third installment has just been released. I found the first book a bit more engaging, but this installment is worth the read, especially since I want to know what's going to happen to the baby...
July 27, 2014
I received this book for my review and I highly recommend it. Jill and David along with their friends Seem so real and the action is intense. You can really see this happening Great Job, J.A. Hope to see more story line with Jill, David and Jessie!
May 1, 2013
Embryo2: Crosshairs,J.A. Schmidt's sequel to Embryo is action packed and extremely fast paced. Part of the time I was sitting on the edge of my seat. And the whole book I was analyzing the characters trying to figure out who dunit. Great read.
July 4, 2013
Another roller coaster ride! This second book is just as good as the first! Just when Jill and David thought their troubles were behind them, they find out it isn't over yet. Highly recommend reading both of these books, you won't be disappointed!
February 1, 2014
Good book. Like part one of this book, it definitely holds your attention and I found myself reading really fast because I wanted to see what happens next.
April 16, 2021
Not a moment's letup in the action
Jill has fears...of heights, of stairs going down, and nightmares about the fight on the roof.
She also still has her intuition and knowledge...although what it uncovers in 2 vicious rapes just a day apart is a bit more than she bargained for.
The embryo Z niw a fetus, actually - is still in his tank, now in the NICU woth the preemies. He l9ves visitors while he's awake, his favorite music is a Beethoven piece, and soon, Jill names him - a name she always liked, and likes more since she looked it up and discovered it meant "gift of God" - Jesse.
Some madman wants them dead...Jill, David, & Jesse - and almost gets his way. In the endz David & Jill manage to keep him from killing at all, mostly because of Jill's fast thinking.
One of the clues to who it might be is a night nurse known to be friendly, helpful, always bringing people together...and one who has a really bad back. She is brutally and savagely attacked - raped, and cut up inside so badly that they have ro open her upp to repair all the damage. They know she has an infecrionn, and cultures and sensitivities are being done. She ends up with a bacterial infextion called pseudomonas auruginisum - not sure of. The soelling on the 2md half of the name - but it ots a vicoous bacteria that at the tome.this was set in, was almost always lethal. Now, there are more drugs rhan just cefepime that can s u ccessfully treat it. But there was no way for her to be exposed to it except by her attacker. The cops had evidence if the suspect having a respiratory illness befire the doctors realized.
They are looking for a sociopath/psychopath who is methodical, gets spooked easily, and wants to kill David, Jill, & Jesse. And has the beginnings of a severe respiratory illness.
And he finds them.
Neanwhie, there os a PR guy who beelieves he can tape whatever and womever he wantsnfoor the publicity campaign, when he can't. He ised to be a hoity toiry artiste in Soho, but in a recession, when the hedge find managers are even struggling, he lost his gallry - bit keot his websote. Jill hapooenednto overhear this when she visited the preschool age Baby School kids for a party and to give some encouragement to a med student eho became a nirse and works as a nurse to pay his way through school, studying hard and ahead of what others in his class are doing. It turns out he's a ventriloquist, & quite good at it. This and a dad and thenphotofrapher is how Jill f9nds this out...be in the right place at the right time, listen, and encourage people to talk more.
Still, even she is surprised when he actually catches up to her.
How do you have a gunfight in a NICU? You don't....but it loooks like the creep has the upper hand. Several times things look bad. Really bad.
Things resolve, though, as they usually do. Getting to res8lution is a nail-biting hard grind, though.
Jill has fears...of heights, of stairs going down, and nightmares about the fight on the roof.
She also still has her intuition and knowledge...although what it uncovers in 2 vicious rapes just a day apart is a bit more than she bargained for.
The embryo Z niw a fetus, actually - is still in his tank, now in the NICU woth the preemies. He l9ves visitors while he's awake, his favorite music is a Beethoven piece, and soon, Jill names him - a name she always liked, and likes more since she looked it up and discovered it meant "gift of God" - Jesse.
Some madman wants them dead...Jill, David, & Jesse - and almost gets his way. In the endz David & Jill manage to keep him from killing at all, mostly because of Jill's fast thinking.
One of the clues to who it might be is a night nurse known to be friendly, helpful, always bringing people together...and one who has a really bad back. She is brutally and savagely attacked - raped, and cut up inside so badly that they have ro open her upp to repair all the damage. They know she has an infecrionn, and cultures and sensitivities are being done. She ends up with a bacterial infextion called pseudomonas auruginisum - not sure of. The soelling on the 2md half of the name - but it ots a vicoous bacteria that at the tome.this was set in, was almost always lethal. Now, there are more drugs rhan just cefepime that can s u ccessfully treat it. But there was no way for her to be exposed to it except by her attacker. The cops had evidence if the suspect having a respiratory illness befire the doctors realized.
They are looking for a sociopath/psychopath who is methodical, gets spooked easily, and wants to kill David, Jill, & Jesse. And has the beginnings of a severe respiratory illness.
And he finds them.
Neanwhie, there os a PR guy who beelieves he can tape whatever and womever he wantsnfoor the publicity campaign, when he can't. He ised to be a hoity toiry artiste in Soho, but in a recession, when the hedge find managers are even struggling, he lost his gallry - bit keot his websote. Jill hapooenednto overhear this when she visited the preschool age Baby School kids for a party and to give some encouragement to a med student eho became a nirse and works as a nurse to pay his way through school, studying hard and ahead of what others in his class are doing. It turns out he's a ventriloquist, & quite good at it. This and a dad and thenphotofrapher is how Jill f9nds this out...be in the right place at the right time, listen, and encourage people to talk more.
Still, even she is surprised when he actually catches up to her.
How do you have a gunfight in a NICU? You don't....but it loooks like the creep has the upper hand. Several times things look bad. Really bad.
Things resolve, though, as they usually do. Getting to res8lution is a nail-biting hard grind, though.
January 25, 2022
J.A. Schneider continues to impress me with her intriguing storylines and character development. In Embryo 2 Crosshairs, we pick up the story of Jill and David right after the events in Embryo, her first book in this six-book series.
After taking a few days off after their harrowing experience at the end of the previous book, they return to work and discover they are now celebrities. Something neither want. Unfortunately, with celebrity status, comes the attention of the crazies.
The new crazy is a psychotic rapist who sends messages carved into the flesh of his victims. As the plot develops, the author intricately weaves the story of our two protagonists and their attempts to stop the madman from attacking more victims.
As with other books I’ve read by J.A. Schneider, her prose keeps the reader’s attention with a fast-paced story. I found my ability to put down a book in the middle of the story severely challenged with this novel. I highly recommend this intense psychological thriller.
After taking a few days off after their harrowing experience at the end of the previous book, they return to work and discover they are now celebrities. Something neither want. Unfortunately, with celebrity status, comes the attention of the crazies.
The new crazy is a psychotic rapist who sends messages carved into the flesh of his victims. As the plot develops, the author intricately weaves the story of our two protagonists and their attempts to stop the madman from attacking more victims.
As with other books I’ve read by J.A. Schneider, her prose keeps the reader’s attention with a fast-paced story. I found my ability to put down a book in the middle of the story severely challenged with this novel. I highly recommend this intense psychological thriller.
February 25, 2022
A heart-pounding medical thriller!
I can always depend on author J.A. Schneider to reel me into her nail-biting thrillers on page one and keep me on the edge of my seat to the end. Embryo 2 Crosshairs, Book two of her Raney & Levine Thrillers, is one of this author’s earlier books, and the intrigue didn’t disappoint me. Her fresh storylines and rich characters consistently ring true, which is sometimes challenging in medical storylines. Book two picks up right after the harrowing experiences of Embryo, [book one] ends.
Jill and David return to work with a new celebrity status, which catches the attention of a psychotic rapist who enjoys carving messages into the flesh of his victims. The plot thickens as the hero and heroine zero in on the villain.
If you love fast-paced, gripping thrillers that will keep you up at night completely enthralled in a wonderfully crafted storyline, pick up a copy of Embryo––start with book one and be assured book two will continue the heart-pounding thrills and chills. I highly recommend this intense psychological thriller.
I can always depend on author J.A. Schneider to reel me into her nail-biting thrillers on page one and keep me on the edge of my seat to the end. Embryo 2 Crosshairs, Book two of her Raney & Levine Thrillers, is one of this author’s earlier books, and the intrigue didn’t disappoint me. Her fresh storylines and rich characters consistently ring true, which is sometimes challenging in medical storylines. Book two picks up right after the harrowing experiences of Embryo, [book one] ends.
Jill and David return to work with a new celebrity status, which catches the attention of a psychotic rapist who enjoys carving messages into the flesh of his victims. The plot thickens as the hero and heroine zero in on the villain.
If you love fast-paced, gripping thrillers that will keep you up at night completely enthralled in a wonderfully crafted storyline, pick up a copy of Embryo––start with book one and be assured book two will continue the heart-pounding thrills and chills. I highly recommend this intense psychological thriller.
May 27, 2023
I loved this book as much as the first one! The story line is gripping, you find yourself guessing and wondering what will happen next. Even my reading pace matched the tension in some part of the book. It’s very well written, I love the author’s style and I will definitely read book 3 in this series, in fact I already started... If you haven’t read the first book I highly recommend you to do so, you won’t regret it!
January 16, 2018
This is a very good part 2 of the Embryo series. After Rainey and Lavine get back to work at the hospital, getting in to a normal routine is tough. Especially with all of the attention they are receiving from the media. Then they start getting crank letters and messages. Then the threats start, and one is not kidding. The book gets intense in some areas. That makes it a very good read.
August 14, 2017
Five 🌟
Another great Randy & Levine Thriller. It will keep you on the edge of your seat at times. Well written. I enjoyed discovering the bad guy at the end. I had guessed wrong! I love it when they fake me out on the bad guys! Thanks!
Another great Randy & Levine Thriller. It will keep you on the edge of your seat at times. Well written. I enjoyed discovering the bad guy at the end. I had guessed wrong! I love it when they fake me out on the bad guys! Thanks!
May 10, 2019
after the death of sonny sears and arnett, dr.s rainey and levine thought the threats were over. but there was a hidden sadistic raping psychopath still determined to exact revenge on the 2 doctors for all that had been taken from him/her.
June 26, 2017
Book 2 read out of order but didn't matter good read
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