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Daniel Rinaldi #4
Phantom Limb
Psychologist and police consultant Daniel Rinaldi's new patient—a former Hollywood starlet now married to a ruthless business tycoon—is kidnapped right outside his office. Through a bizarre sequence of events, he's forced to deliver the ransom demand himself, drawing him into a deadly cat-and-mouse game with a brilliant, lethal adversary. Complicating things is the victim's own family, whose members have dark secrets of their own and whose loyalties are suspect.
250 pages, Hardcover
First published June 3, 2014
9 people are currently reading
313 people want to read
About the author
Dennis Palumbo
34 books40 followersFormerly a Hollywood screenwriter (My Favorite Year, Welcome Back, Kotter, etc.), Dennis Palumbo is now a licensed psychotherapist and author
His mystery fiction has appeared in Ellery Queen's Mystery Magazine, The Strand, and elsewhere, and is collected in From Crime to Crime.
His acclaimed series of crime novels (Mirror Image, Fever Dream, Night Terrors, Phantom Limb, and Head Wounds) feature psychologist Daniel Rinaldi, a trauma expert who consults with the Pittsburgh Police. All are from Poisoned Pen Press. For more info, visit www.dennispalumbo.com.
His mystery fiction has appeared in Ellery Queen's Mystery Magazine, The Strand, and elsewhere, and is collected in From Crime to Crime.
His acclaimed series of crime novels (Mirror Image, Fever Dream, Night Terrors, Phantom Limb, and Head Wounds) feature psychologist Daniel Rinaldi, a trauma expert who consults with the Pittsburgh Police. All are from Poisoned Pen Press. For more info, visit www.dennispalumbo.com.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
January 29, 2016
I received an advance copy (ARC) of this book for review. This does not change how I reviewed this book. Phantom Limb is the fourth Daniel Rinaldi mystery book, but is the first one I have read. Mystery books are some of my favorite go to books. I started reading mystery books as a young teen because my mom, grandma and aunt all read them. Growing up my grandma, mom, aunt and I would talk mystery books and trade our favorite books back and forth over the years. The description on the back of the book: “Psychologist and Pittsburgh Police Department consultant Daniel Rinaldi has a new patient. Lisa Harland, a local girl, once made a splash in Playboy and the dubious side of Hollywood before bottoming out. Back home, down and out again, she married one of the city’s richest and most ruthless tycoons. Lisa’s challenge to Danny is that she intends to commit suicide by 7:00 PM. His therapist skills may buy some time—but, exiting, she’s kidnapped right outside his office. Summoned to the Harland estate, Danny is forced, through a bizarre sequence of events, to be the bag man on the ransom delivery. This draws him into a deadly cat-and-mouse game with a brilliant, lethal adversary. Complicating things is the unhappy Harland family, whose members have dark secrets of their own along with suspect loyalties, as well as one of Danny’s other patients, a volatile vet whose life may, like Lisa’s, be at risk. What is really at stake here?” I was instantly engrossed and hooked, and the book is action packed the whole way through.
I do not want to give more of the plot away. It is a mystery so of course there are numerous characters introduced and many suspects. The main character, Daniel Rinaldi, acknowledges the fact that he is someone who seems to find himself in the middle of “crazy” mysteries and cases. I love that the author did this. Some mystery series thrust the main character into one “crazy” situation after another like it is commonplace. I think it is apparent, in a good way, that the author has a psychotherapist background (it is mentioned in the beginning of the ARC that Palumbo currently practices psychotherapy). It adds levity to the character of Daniel.
Since this was not the first book in the series I was worried I may be confused. However, that was not the case. This book stands alone, while also clearly complimenting the other books in the series in that it makes references to other cases that I assume were discussed in the previous books. It helps give background to the character of Daniel, but does not spoil too much of what happened previously so that it will be easy for me to go back and read the previous books.
One of the things I kept thinking about while reading this book is how I could envision this as a TV show or movie. It struck me as a Bones type of book. I have not read the books that Bones is based on, but I have watched the show. The way the characters lives are interspersed into the cases in an organic way is what made me think of Bones while reading Phantom Limb.
If you enjoy mysteries and do not mind gritty then this is a great book for you. I loved it. I cannot wait to read the rest of the books in the series. Plus, I will definitely be recommending this book to my mom and aunt. (Sadly, I cannot recommend it to my grandma, though she probably has access to all the books she wants in Heaven.)
Here are some nuggets (quotes) that I loved. All are non-spoilers:
“Yet, like with my father, a felt sense of her lingers. Perhaps this is true for everyone. That those with whom we’re most intimately connected persist, not only in memory, but almost like missing parts of ourselves. Like phantom limbs, we feel their presence, even though they’re gone forever…” (Page 138)
“ ‘Whenever I feel a strong wind, I think of Elvira.’ He glanced over at me. ‘Our old nanny when I was a child. She used to say the sound of the wind was the wail of lost souls, the dead flying around the world looking for a way into heaven.’” (Page 150)
[Note about the quotes: This is in ARC so page numbers may be changed and it is also possible the text or quotes themselves could be edited before being published.]
It is quotes like these that make this book stand out as different from other mysteries. It has so many other elements than just the mystery and delves deeper into characters than many mysteries do. Check it out and let me know what you think.
Phantom Limb will be released in September by Poisoned Pen Press.
lostbraincell.weebly.com
I do not want to give more of the plot away. It is a mystery so of course there are numerous characters introduced and many suspects. The main character, Daniel Rinaldi, acknowledges the fact that he is someone who seems to find himself in the middle of “crazy” mysteries and cases. I love that the author did this. Some mystery series thrust the main character into one “crazy” situation after another like it is commonplace. I think it is apparent, in a good way, that the author has a psychotherapist background (it is mentioned in the beginning of the ARC that Palumbo currently practices psychotherapy). It adds levity to the character of Daniel.
Since this was not the first book in the series I was worried I may be confused. However, that was not the case. This book stands alone, while also clearly complimenting the other books in the series in that it makes references to other cases that I assume were discussed in the previous books. It helps give background to the character of Daniel, but does not spoil too much of what happened previously so that it will be easy for me to go back and read the previous books.
One of the things I kept thinking about while reading this book is how I could envision this as a TV show or movie. It struck me as a Bones type of book. I have not read the books that Bones is based on, but I have watched the show. The way the characters lives are interspersed into the cases in an organic way is what made me think of Bones while reading Phantom Limb.
If you enjoy mysteries and do not mind gritty then this is a great book for you. I loved it. I cannot wait to read the rest of the books in the series. Plus, I will definitely be recommending this book to my mom and aunt. (Sadly, I cannot recommend it to my grandma, though she probably has access to all the books she wants in Heaven.)
Here are some nuggets (quotes) that I loved. All are non-spoilers:
“Yet, like with my father, a felt sense of her lingers. Perhaps this is true for everyone. That those with whom we’re most intimately connected persist, not only in memory, but almost like missing parts of ourselves. Like phantom limbs, we feel their presence, even though they’re gone forever…” (Page 138)
“ ‘Whenever I feel a strong wind, I think of Elvira.’ He glanced over at me. ‘Our old nanny when I was a child. She used to say the sound of the wind was the wail of lost souls, the dead flying around the world looking for a way into heaven.’” (Page 150)
[Note about the quotes: This is in ARC so page numbers may be changed and it is also possible the text or quotes themselves could be edited before being published.]
It is quotes like these that make this book stand out as different from other mysteries. It has so many other elements than just the mystery and delves deeper into characters than many mysteries do. Check it out and let me know what you think.
Phantom Limb will be released in September by Poisoned Pen Press.
lostbraincell.weebly.com
September 5, 2014
I enjoyed this mystery, suspense story set in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Its nice to read a mystery story that doesn’t take place in the oh-so familiar literary settings of Los Angeles or New York . Daniel Rinaldi is a psychologist who occasionally acts as a consultant for the Pittsburgh Police Department. In this the fourth book of a series, Rinaldi has a new walk-in client. The tall, well built sexy blonde may be showing a few signs of wear do to a hard life, but she still lives up to her one time Playmate image. Her threat to kill herself by 7:00PM, if Rinaldi doesn’t talk her out of it, has the psychologist’s mind spinning. Lisa is the trophy wife of one of Pittsburgh’s wealthiest men. Although she is obviously in deep emotional pain, Lisa is very reluctant to tell Rinaldi what is troubling her. As the inconclusive session comes to an end, Rinaldi opens the door of his office and immediately gets cold cocked by a large nondescript stranger. When he regains consciousness, he finds himself surrounded by police and EMT’s. Rinaldi’s client has been reported missing by her wealthy husband. All his wealth and political influence are pressing on the police as well as Rinaldi’s aching head to try and figure out what happened. Who could have known Lisa would be at Rinaldi’s office and vulnerable? Lisa’s sordid past and her husband’s limitless wealth spell out kidnapping and ransom. Why do the kidnappers insist on Rinaldi helping to deliver the ransom? Rinaldi will have to play all his old contacts in the P.P.D. to stay close to the case and help figure out who done it. Book provided for review by Poisoned Pen Press.
April 19, 2015
Daniel Rinaldi is a Pittsburgh psychologist and consultant to the Police Department, counseling victims suffering reactions to violent crimes. Somehow he also manages to get himself into all kinds of dangerous situations and probably could use similar help himself from some other professional. In this fourth novel in an excellent series, he outdoes his involvement and placing himself in death’s ways several times.
It all begins when Lisa Harland, trophy wife of a billionaire, keeps an initial appointment during which she informs Rinaldi that she intends to commit suicide at 7 pm that evening. The reason for her plan does not appear until later in the plot, but Rinaldi convinces her to postpone the effort by one day. But on the way out after their time was up, Rinaldi is knocked unconscious and she is kidnapped. Then begins a more complicated story, and one well worth reading.
The author, a licensed psychotherapist, sprinkles the book with all kinds of perceptive observations, providing deep insights into the characters and their motivations. Written smoothly and at a crisp pace with few complications, the tale resolves itself logically and is most satisfying, leading this reader, at least, waiting breathlessly for the next chapter in the adventures of Danny Rinaldi.
It all begins when Lisa Harland, trophy wife of a billionaire, keeps an initial appointment during which she informs Rinaldi that she intends to commit suicide at 7 pm that evening. The reason for her plan does not appear until later in the plot, but Rinaldi convinces her to postpone the effort by one day. But on the way out after their time was up, Rinaldi is knocked unconscious and she is kidnapped. Then begins a more complicated story, and one well worth reading.
The author, a licensed psychotherapist, sprinkles the book with all kinds of perceptive observations, providing deep insights into the characters and their motivations. Written smoothly and at a crisp pace with few complications, the tale resolves itself logically and is most satisfying, leading this reader, at least, waiting breathlessly for the next chapter in the adventures of Danny Rinaldi.
August 1, 2014
Phantom Limb: Dennis Palumbo
A phantom is something that can exist in the mind of a person but is not really there. I can haunt them, cause them to believe that something exists yet it does not. Imagine living your life as if you are going through the motions, doing things by rote yet not really thinking anyone sees you or cares that you are there. Sometimes people lose a limb and think it’s too attached to them even though it’s gone. An apparition, a vision that seems to reoccur within the depths of a person’s mind yet that’s the only place it really exists.
Lisa Harland lives in a world that was created by others in order to make it look like she was some type of starlet or movie queen. Lisa’s life took more than a downward turn when she married a rich industrialist named Charles Harland and this ordinary girl who once filled the centerfold in Playboy, enjoyed recreational and hard drugs, drank and eventually bottomed out lived her life married to one of Pittsburgh’s richest and most dangerous businessmen. Lisa gave up on life because she was being blackmailed, threatened and had been abused by someone that was close to not only her but her husband. Someone that many feared others hated and would soon prove to be more than just an adversary but a coldhearted killer. What would you do if you were a psychologist and consultant for Pittsburgh Police Department and a client or patient came into your office and dared you to convince them to not commit suicide. Within a short 50-minute time frame consultant Daniel Rinaldi had to convince new patient Lisa Harland not to take her own life. The time 6: 10 the end game would be 7:00 P.M. using everything he had and incorporating all of his skills Daniel needed to find a way to convince Lisa to vote for life and hopefully buy himself some time to delve more into the real Lisa. But, although she agreed to a pardon for herself or a reprieve from the warden, she was far from home free. Leaving his office someone stood in her way, enter Daniel office, knocked him and out kidnapped Lisa. But why? Who and what would the end result be? Lisa’s disappearance was to be handled without the police or any law enforcement agency included. But, Charles Harland was a powerful man and one phone call would change what the demands of the kidnappers were and the chain of events would place more than just Lisa in harms way. Phantom Limb: Dennis Palumbo: Just where is this imaginary vision? Who will it strike next and why was Lisa kidnapped? Her story will unfold and readers won’t believe the outcome or who is behind what Dennis Palumbo so brilliantly delivers.
Danny has not choice to be to the Harland Estate and face a cast of characters that from the start will not be on his top ten list of favorite people. Mike Payton the security guard roughs him up and uses him for a punching bag to make sure that he’s not going to endanger his boss. A deadly killer named Sykes and his accomplice Griffin are behind the kidnapping but who orchestrated it and why? Five million in bearer bonds is what the kidnappers want. Arthur Drake is counsel for Charles Harland, Mike Payton his bodyguard, James Harland his outcast son and Detective Lieutenant Biegler whose presence creates more dissension and whose lack of proper leadership could blow it all. Added in Danny is the one that is told to deliver the ransom. When the first attempt goes sour the second proves deadly for someone. As the author reveals Lisa’s history and story we also learn more about James, the death of his younger brother, the guilt that he feels for introducing him to drugs and a downward spiral life and the end result that would alienate him from his father’s love forever.
Added in we meet the cast at Noah’s Ark the bar that Danny frequents and a veteran named Skip whose life changed and might be as volatile as an explosive bomb unless he seeks the help that Danny suggests that he get.
When both the police and the FBI question Danny and insist that he reveal his consultation with Lisa, he invokes the confidentiality clause much to the frustration of both the police and the FBI. Wanting to get Lisa back, placing himself in danger. Special Agent Gloria Russo finds herself a victim of this dangerous killer as Danny is tricked into meeting with her and before the killers can do their worst something happens and the tables are turned. Able to escape and find their way to safety, Lisa is still missing, the nurse that takes care of Charles Harland is missing and the end result is more than just tragic.
Lisa’s revelation of what happened to her at the hand of James Harland changes the complexion of the investigation for Danny as he promises not to reveal what happened to her, keeping information from the police and the FBI and knowing that she might still carry out the threat she made when she met him. But, things get hot when Danny returns home after being interrogated and can’t sleep. Finds his way to Noah’s Ark and a starling revelation is made that might link not only the identity of Julian to someone he just met but who else might be behind the kidnapping and why! Money, greed, power or was it something else that someone wanted? Just why was Lisa taken and who was the mastermind? Who is Julian? What about James? He hates his father and Lisa, did he have something to do with the murders and her kidnapping? Who are the Four horsemen?
Lies, deceits, betrayals, hate, drug, cartels, greed, power and revenge are all at the center of this novel. A recurring theme that runs throughout this novel is acceptance. Lisa wants people to accept her for the person she has become and not what she was before. James cannot reconcile himself with his feelings for what he did to his brother and knows that his father will never accept him as a true son. Danny seems to be searching for his own acceptance as he works with many agencies as a consultant and yet in many ways is an outcast. Forgiveness comes hard to so many as some of the characters like Mike Payton pay a heavy price for their actions. Often blaming himself for what happened to Lisa and not moving ahead with the investigation into her disappearance the right way and holding back information, he learns a hard lesson but not in a good way. Danny finds himself in the middle of this controversy and searches long and hard within himself whether to keep Lisa’s confidence, tell the police what she told him or just hope for a positive outcome. When the author describes what happened to Lisa on pages 186-187 you being to wonder is what Danny does or does not do is truly justified. Sergeant Harry Polk, counselor Arthur Drake, James Harland, Charles Harland, Mike Payton, Daniel Rinaldi, Skip Hines and the killers themselves: Each having their own agenda. Each one searching for their own truth and each one seeking a goal of their own: Money, greed, revenge, retribution, hate, fear in a climate filled with sex, drugs, slave trade4 and a high profile billionaire who will use his influence and power to get what he wants. This is one novel that will keep you wondering until the very end: Whose facing the hardest decisions? Whose Phantom Limb will haunt them for ever as some are not part of your body, the limb of a tree but some limbs are situations in life that some claim or state: My Life hangs on a delicate limb and hopefully it won’t break off!
Each character carrying a burden and own hidden pain whether imaginary or real it is still there. Skip his missing limb, James his hate for his father and himself causing an inner pain that will never go away. Lisa who does not regret her past but hates her present and does not want to be defined by what someone wants to bring out about her. Mike Payton hides the truth about someone and his feelings for another. Characters that have human flaws that might cost them more than the respect of Charles Harland. Gloria Reese who must face what the killers tried to do to her and yet represses it in order to not lose face at work. Each one harbors a secret but at what price?
An ending that will not only leave the reader with many unanswered questions but will bring to light something in Danny’s life that has haunted him for so long and given him pain: Phantom Limb: A phantom limb is the sensation that a missing limb or amputated part of the body feels like it’s still attached. Sensations sometimes occur after the body part is removed. Attacks occur over time but although the limb is not there in some cases the pain is real. Danny learns at the end of this novel that something that has haunted him for so long just might represent something real. The answer cannot be found within the pages of this outstanding novel but within the ones the author will pen when we find out what is next for Danny.
Fran Lewis: Reviewer
A phantom is something that can exist in the mind of a person but is not really there. I can haunt them, cause them to believe that something exists yet it does not. Imagine living your life as if you are going through the motions, doing things by rote yet not really thinking anyone sees you or cares that you are there. Sometimes people lose a limb and think it’s too attached to them even though it’s gone. An apparition, a vision that seems to reoccur within the depths of a person’s mind yet that’s the only place it really exists.
Lisa Harland lives in a world that was created by others in order to make it look like she was some type of starlet or movie queen. Lisa’s life took more than a downward turn when she married a rich industrialist named Charles Harland and this ordinary girl who once filled the centerfold in Playboy, enjoyed recreational and hard drugs, drank and eventually bottomed out lived her life married to one of Pittsburgh’s richest and most dangerous businessmen. Lisa gave up on life because she was being blackmailed, threatened and had been abused by someone that was close to not only her but her husband. Someone that many feared others hated and would soon prove to be more than just an adversary but a coldhearted killer. What would you do if you were a psychologist and consultant for Pittsburgh Police Department and a client or patient came into your office and dared you to convince them to not commit suicide. Within a short 50-minute time frame consultant Daniel Rinaldi had to convince new patient Lisa Harland not to take her own life. The time 6: 10 the end game would be 7:00 P.M. using everything he had and incorporating all of his skills Daniel needed to find a way to convince Lisa to vote for life and hopefully buy himself some time to delve more into the real Lisa. But, although she agreed to a pardon for herself or a reprieve from the warden, she was far from home free. Leaving his office someone stood in her way, enter Daniel office, knocked him and out kidnapped Lisa. But why? Who and what would the end result be? Lisa’s disappearance was to be handled without the police or any law enforcement agency included. But, Charles Harland was a powerful man and one phone call would change what the demands of the kidnappers were and the chain of events would place more than just Lisa in harms way. Phantom Limb: Dennis Palumbo: Just where is this imaginary vision? Who will it strike next and why was Lisa kidnapped? Her story will unfold and readers won’t believe the outcome or who is behind what Dennis Palumbo so brilliantly delivers.
Danny has not choice to be to the Harland Estate and face a cast of characters that from the start will not be on his top ten list of favorite people. Mike Payton the security guard roughs him up and uses him for a punching bag to make sure that he’s not going to endanger his boss. A deadly killer named Sykes and his accomplice Griffin are behind the kidnapping but who orchestrated it and why? Five million in bearer bonds is what the kidnappers want. Arthur Drake is counsel for Charles Harland, Mike Payton his bodyguard, James Harland his outcast son and Detective Lieutenant Biegler whose presence creates more dissension and whose lack of proper leadership could blow it all. Added in Danny is the one that is told to deliver the ransom. When the first attempt goes sour the second proves deadly for someone. As the author reveals Lisa’s history and story we also learn more about James, the death of his younger brother, the guilt that he feels for introducing him to drugs and a downward spiral life and the end result that would alienate him from his father’s love forever.
Added in we meet the cast at Noah’s Ark the bar that Danny frequents and a veteran named Skip whose life changed and might be as volatile as an explosive bomb unless he seeks the help that Danny suggests that he get.
When both the police and the FBI question Danny and insist that he reveal his consultation with Lisa, he invokes the confidentiality clause much to the frustration of both the police and the FBI. Wanting to get Lisa back, placing himself in danger. Special Agent Gloria Russo finds herself a victim of this dangerous killer as Danny is tricked into meeting with her and before the killers can do their worst something happens and the tables are turned. Able to escape and find their way to safety, Lisa is still missing, the nurse that takes care of Charles Harland is missing and the end result is more than just tragic.
Lisa’s revelation of what happened to her at the hand of James Harland changes the complexion of the investigation for Danny as he promises not to reveal what happened to her, keeping information from the police and the FBI and knowing that she might still carry out the threat she made when she met him. But, things get hot when Danny returns home after being interrogated and can’t sleep. Finds his way to Noah’s Ark and a starling revelation is made that might link not only the identity of Julian to someone he just met but who else might be behind the kidnapping and why! Money, greed, power or was it something else that someone wanted? Just why was Lisa taken and who was the mastermind? Who is Julian? What about James? He hates his father and Lisa, did he have something to do with the murders and her kidnapping? Who are the Four horsemen?
Lies, deceits, betrayals, hate, drug, cartels, greed, power and revenge are all at the center of this novel. A recurring theme that runs throughout this novel is acceptance. Lisa wants people to accept her for the person she has become and not what she was before. James cannot reconcile himself with his feelings for what he did to his brother and knows that his father will never accept him as a true son. Danny seems to be searching for his own acceptance as he works with many agencies as a consultant and yet in many ways is an outcast. Forgiveness comes hard to so many as some of the characters like Mike Payton pay a heavy price for their actions. Often blaming himself for what happened to Lisa and not moving ahead with the investigation into her disappearance the right way and holding back information, he learns a hard lesson but not in a good way. Danny finds himself in the middle of this controversy and searches long and hard within himself whether to keep Lisa’s confidence, tell the police what she told him or just hope for a positive outcome. When the author describes what happened to Lisa on pages 186-187 you being to wonder is what Danny does or does not do is truly justified. Sergeant Harry Polk, counselor Arthur Drake, James Harland, Charles Harland, Mike Payton, Daniel Rinaldi, Skip Hines and the killers themselves: Each having their own agenda. Each one searching for their own truth and each one seeking a goal of their own: Money, greed, revenge, retribution, hate, fear in a climate filled with sex, drugs, slave trade4 and a high profile billionaire who will use his influence and power to get what he wants. This is one novel that will keep you wondering until the very end: Whose facing the hardest decisions? Whose Phantom Limb will haunt them for ever as some are not part of your body, the limb of a tree but some limbs are situations in life that some claim or state: My Life hangs on a delicate limb and hopefully it won’t break off!
Each character carrying a burden and own hidden pain whether imaginary or real it is still there. Skip his missing limb, James his hate for his father and himself causing an inner pain that will never go away. Lisa who does not regret her past but hates her present and does not want to be defined by what someone wants to bring out about her. Mike Payton hides the truth about someone and his feelings for another. Characters that have human flaws that might cost them more than the respect of Charles Harland. Gloria Reese who must face what the killers tried to do to her and yet represses it in order to not lose face at work. Each one harbors a secret but at what price?
An ending that will not only leave the reader with many unanswered questions but will bring to light something in Danny’s life that has haunted him for so long and given him pain: Phantom Limb: A phantom limb is the sensation that a missing limb or amputated part of the body feels like it’s still attached. Sensations sometimes occur after the body part is removed. Attacks occur over time but although the limb is not there in some cases the pain is real. Danny learns at the end of this novel that something that has haunted him for so long just might represent something real. The answer cannot be found within the pages of this outstanding novel but within the ones the author will pen when we find out what is next for Danny.
Fran Lewis: Reviewer
July 2, 2018
Consulting police psychologist Daniel Rinaldi becomes embroiled in a convoluted kidnap scheme when an aging porn star consults him for suicidal ideation. While the first 50 pages were intriguing and held great promise, the plot quickly devolved into a cockeyed series of absurd twists that defied believability. Even worse, the dialogue consisted of a series of childish banter between one dimensional characters that all-too-often repeated phrases of "Bite me", "Screw you", and their like no matter what the circumstances. I found myself skimming the last third of the book as there was virtually nothing substantive happening that couldn't have been boiled down to 10 pages of poorly cobbled together plot resolution.
February 23, 2019
Although hard to put down as the action never lets up, the storyline has quite a few murders, mayhem and awful characters. But I enjoyed that the story was set in Pittsburgh, my hometown. Not sure if I will read anymore of this series.
October 26, 2014
Title: Phantom Limb: Daniel Rinaldi, Book 4
Author: Dennis Palumbo
Narrator: Tom Taylorson
Publisher/Date: Blackstone Audio, 09/01/14
I received this audiobook for review through Audio Jukebox
(and the crowd goes wild..)
This is the 4th book in the Daniel Rinaldi series, which I love.
That being said, it wasn't my favorite.
I have been pondering how to review this book without sounding as if I am slamming the writer and the editors.
It is a fine book, it is. Really. It is definitely worth the read. Truly.
But....
What struck me is that it was just a vehicle.
You know how you are watching a series on TV and some episodes are just obviously there to move the plot forward?
It isn't the most exciting episode and not much happens, but it sets the scene for the next episode and you just know that it will be epic?
Well, that's this book for me. I think the next book will be epic!
I found the characters to be an unlovable bunch.
Not a group I would want to stuck at a dinner party with, though it could be interesting to nurse my drink in the corner and watch, knowing that the party would end and I would never have to see any of them. Ever again.
But the story in itself was ok.
There were the red herrings, the plot twists and the great locations that make the heart sing.
Now..to go nuts on to some points that drove me wild and not in the 'good way'.
See?
I told you it would sound as if I was slamming the entire thing.
But read it.
Go ahead.
It's fine.
We are with the Doc again and he is having his usual messed up, no good, very bad week.
He is driving his totally fly car and the Iron City on tap is cold and crisp and the jazz is excellent!
Or better yet, listen to it!
Let the narrator pump the story directly into your brain pan.
That's the best way to get a good story!
Author: Dennis Palumbo
Narrator: Tom Taylorson
Publisher/Date: Blackstone Audio, 09/01/14
I received this audiobook for review through Audio Jukebox
(and the crowd goes wild..)
This is the 4th book in the Daniel Rinaldi series, which I love.
That being said, it wasn't my favorite.
I have been pondering how to review this book without sounding as if I am slamming the writer and the editors.
It is a fine book, it is. Really. It is definitely worth the read. Truly.
But....
What struck me is that it was just a vehicle.
You know how you are watching a series on TV and some episodes are just obviously there to move the plot forward?
It isn't the most exciting episode and not much happens, but it sets the scene for the next episode and you just know that it will be epic?
Well, that's this book for me. I think the next book will be epic!
I found the characters to be an unlovable bunch.
Not a group I would want to stuck at a dinner party with, though it could be interesting to nurse my drink in the corner and watch, knowing that the party would end and I would never have to see any of them. Ever again.
But the story in itself was ok.
There were the red herrings, the plot twists and the great locations that make the heart sing.
Now..to go nuts on to some points that drove me wild and not in the 'good way'.
See?
I told you it would sound as if I was slamming the entire thing.
But read it.
Go ahead.
It's fine.
We are with the Doc again and he is having his usual messed up, no good, very bad week.
He is driving his totally fly car and the Iron City on tap is cold and crisp and the jazz is excellent!
Or better yet, listen to it!
Let the narrator pump the story directly into your brain pan.
That's the best way to get a good story!
January 28, 2018
Daniel Rinaldi is a private psychologist that also consults with the Pittsburg Police Department when needed. In the past, this has brought trouble to his doorstep. Unfortunately, this time things could get deadly for him.
His new patient was a Playboy model and starred in some sketchy films. Returning home to Pittsburg she is now married to a very rich man with questionable activities. These activities get her snatched right after her first session with Rinaldi.
This plunges Rinaldi into the case as well as into danger. Happenstance puts him in even more danger with the kidnappers; he is tagged to be the one to deliver the ransom to the bad guys. Will he be able to save the young woman he just met or will her secrets be too much for the kidnappers to chance letting her go at any price? Either way Rinaldi feels he has to help her. Unfortunately for him, his involvement is becoming more treacherous with each passing hour. He may not be able to save her or himself from the psychopath behind the whole scheme.
Palumbo’s gripping tale is a nail-biting, page turning mystery that pulls the reader along for the ride. The witty banter and complex characters round out this fantastic read. The unexpected twists and turns kept me guessing until the last pages – a perfect mystery in my opinion.
As a former Hollywood screenwriter and licensed psychotherapist he brings firsthand knowledge to the pages along with his amazing fiction, making the perfect combo for great mysteries. This is the first book I have read in the Daniel Rinaldi Mystery series, but the fourth book in Palumbo’s series. It works perfectly as a stand-alone book if you choose to read it first. He has published a mystery collection, From Crime to Crime and has had short fiction published in Ellery Queen’s Mystery Magazine.
DISCLOSURE OF MATERIAL CONNECTION: I have a material connection because I received a review copy that I can keep for consideration in preparing to write this content. I was not expected to return this item after my review. Copyright © 2018 Laura Hartman
His new patient was a Playboy model and starred in some sketchy films. Returning home to Pittsburg she is now married to a very rich man with questionable activities. These activities get her snatched right after her first session with Rinaldi.
This plunges Rinaldi into the case as well as into danger. Happenstance puts him in even more danger with the kidnappers; he is tagged to be the one to deliver the ransom to the bad guys. Will he be able to save the young woman he just met or will her secrets be too much for the kidnappers to chance letting her go at any price? Either way Rinaldi feels he has to help her. Unfortunately for him, his involvement is becoming more treacherous with each passing hour. He may not be able to save her or himself from the psychopath behind the whole scheme.
Palumbo’s gripping tale is a nail-biting, page turning mystery that pulls the reader along for the ride. The witty banter and complex characters round out this fantastic read. The unexpected twists and turns kept me guessing until the last pages – a perfect mystery in my opinion.
As a former Hollywood screenwriter and licensed psychotherapist he brings firsthand knowledge to the pages along with his amazing fiction, making the perfect combo for great mysteries. This is the first book I have read in the Daniel Rinaldi Mystery series, but the fourth book in Palumbo’s series. It works perfectly as a stand-alone book if you choose to read it first. He has published a mystery collection, From Crime to Crime and has had short fiction published in Ellery Queen’s Mystery Magazine.
DISCLOSURE OF MATERIAL CONNECTION: I have a material connection because I received a review copy that I can keep for consideration in preparing to write this content. I was not expected to return this item after my review. Copyright © 2018 Laura Hartman
February 10, 2017
Police psychologist Daniel Rinaldi returns in Phantom Limb, another deftly plotted thriller from Dennis Palumbo. This one revolves around Lisa Campbell, ex-Hollywood starlet, ex-Playboy model, and current arm candy to a disabled tycoon, and her planned suicide—to occur at precisely 7 p.m. Daniel has a single 50 minute session to convince her otherwise. But as if that wasn’t enough pressure, as soon as Lisa leaves his office she is kidnapped. But this is no ordinary kidnapping and Daniel is launched on a roller coaster ride that pits him against the police, the kidnappers, and the powerful and ruthless Harlan family, and brings his own professional ethics and family secrets into play. This might be the best among the stories in this excellent series.
DP Lyle, award-winning author of the Jake Longly, Samantha Cody, and Dub Walker thriller series
DP Lyle, award-winning author of the Jake Longly, Samantha Cody, and Dub Walker thriller series
July 29, 2014
I received a free e-copy of Phantom Limb: a Daniel Rinaldi Mystery by Dennis Palumbo from NetGalley for fair review.
I loved the fact that it kept me guessing from chapter to chapter. There were plenty of twists & turns to this mystery including kidnapping & murder.
I read it in one sitting. That & the hangover a book leaves after I've finished reading are two of my gauges of a successful book. Now I'm not quite ready to move on to the next. I want to allow these characters to linger a bit longer with me.
I won't go into the synopsis. You can read that on ANY book cover. I wanted to leave a RAVE review about the character, Daniel Rinaldi. This is the fourth book with him as the protagonist. Now I have all the other Palumbo books added to my wish list.
I loved the fact that it kept me guessing from chapter to chapter. There were plenty of twists & turns to this mystery including kidnapping & murder.
I read it in one sitting. That & the hangover a book leaves after I've finished reading are two of my gauges of a successful book. Now I'm not quite ready to move on to the next. I want to allow these characters to linger a bit longer with me.
I won't go into the synopsis. You can read that on ANY book cover. I wanted to leave a RAVE review about the character, Daniel Rinaldi. This is the fourth book with him as the protagonist. Now I have all the other Palumbo books added to my wish list.
October 31, 2014
This was a first-reads copy. Ordinarily I only read books in a series in order, but since this is just out, and I loved the first book, I felt I should read and review it ASAP, despite not having read the last two books.
I really enjoy this series, and except for the amount of violence I was very pleased with this episode. Dennis is a terrific writer, and the story flows smoothly. I like Daniel and his friends, and can tolerate the cranky police and FBI higher ups. The bad guys are exceptionally bad, and the plot was nicely intricate. There was alot of referencing to earlier plots, which I have not read, but nothing was spoiled, that I could see.
I am fascinated with the thinking process of Daniel. The initial chapters where he meets with Lisa Campbell are wonderful. So very human. He allows the backstory to be revealed gradually, without glaring jumps. Actions follow logically. Pittsburgh is used as a terrific backdrop.
The final chapter hints at what is to come next, and I am ready for it.
I really enjoy this series, and except for the amount of violence I was very pleased with this episode. Dennis is a terrific writer, and the story flows smoothly. I like Daniel and his friends, and can tolerate the cranky police and FBI higher ups. The bad guys are exceptionally bad, and the plot was nicely intricate. There was alot of referencing to earlier plots, which I have not read, but nothing was spoiled, that I could see.
I am fascinated with the thinking process of Daniel. The initial chapters where he meets with Lisa Campbell are wonderful. So very human. He allows the backstory to be revealed gradually, without glaring jumps. Actions follow logically. Pittsburgh is used as a terrific backdrop.
The final chapter hints at what is to come next, and I am ready for it.
September 29, 2014
Another great read from the folks at Poisoned Pen Press! Phantom Limb is the fourth book in the Daniel Rinaldi series by author Dennis Palumbo.
This series is set in Pittsburgh which is a city that I have not visited. Luckily author Palumbo is able to bring the city to life in this book, Phantom Limb. Daniel Rinaldi is a psychologist and Pittsburgh Police Department consultant. Author Palumbo is a psychotherapist so is able to realistically portray Rinaldi.
I wish that I had read the earlier books in the series so that I could get more out of the relationships between Rinaldi and the people in his life. It is not necessary to have read the previous books to follow the story.
Phantom limb is full of lots of twists and is filled with interesting people! The Harland family is full of secrets. We are introduced to them through Rinaldi's patient Lisa Harland, an ex-Playboy playmate and wife of the wealthy, older Charles Harland. Lisa, after just threatening suicide, is kidnapped right after her session with Rinaldi.
Well-written thriller! Just released earlier this month!
This series is set in Pittsburgh which is a city that I have not visited. Luckily author Palumbo is able to bring the city to life in this book, Phantom Limb. Daniel Rinaldi is a psychologist and Pittsburgh Police Department consultant. Author Palumbo is a psychotherapist so is able to realistically portray Rinaldi.
I wish that I had read the earlier books in the series so that I could get more out of the relationships between Rinaldi and the people in his life. It is not necessary to have read the previous books to follow the story.
Phantom limb is full of lots of twists and is filled with interesting people! The Harland family is full of secrets. We are introduced to them through Rinaldi's patient Lisa Harland, an ex-Playboy playmate and wife of the wealthy, older Charles Harland. Lisa, after just threatening suicide, is kidnapped right after her session with Rinaldi.
Well-written thriller! Just released earlier this month!
January 5, 2018
As a psychotherapist, author Dennis Palumbo has no problem getting into character motive, angst, or defining the theme in his novels. As a former Hollywood screenwriter, the dialog in this novel is spot on.
Phantom Limb is the fourth in the Daniel Rinaldi series. A psychologist becomes a consultant for the Pittsburgh Police Department. Rinaldi as a protagonist shows compassion and a need for truth, as would a man of his profession,
This novel is another fun and suspenseful read. The story is the meeting of old Pittsburgh society with Hollywood glitz. What turns out is a mystery so compelling, you can’t put the novel down until the last page.
Reviewed on Le Coeur de l'Artiste http://www.djadamson.com/le-coeur-de-...
Phantom Limb is the fourth in the Daniel Rinaldi series. A psychologist becomes a consultant for the Pittsburgh Police Department. Rinaldi as a protagonist shows compassion and a need for truth, as would a man of his profession,
This novel is another fun and suspenseful read. The story is the meeting of old Pittsburgh society with Hollywood glitz. What turns out is a mystery so compelling, you can’t put the novel down until the last page.
Reviewed on Le Coeur de l'Artiste http://www.djadamson.com/le-coeur-de-...
July 26, 2016
Dennis Palumbo now has four thrillers (as of September 1, 2014) in the Daniel Rinaldi mysteries set in Pittsburgh, where he grew up. That is one of the features that drew me to the series and I began reading each one as it came out. Each one improves on the last.
Daniel Rinaldi is a psychologist who reluctantly gets called in, by the police, to help with difficult cases needing his skills. His specialty is traumatized victims of crime including sexual assault. But never fear. Since Dennis Palumbo is also a psychologist in real life, he never goes too far with the violence or the sex. The focus is on one heck of a good story. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
Daniel Rinaldi is a psychologist who reluctantly gets called in, by the police, to help with difficult cases needing his skills. His specialty is traumatized victims of crime including sexual assault. But never fear. Since Dennis Palumbo is also a psychologist in real life, he never goes too far with the violence or the sex. The focus is on one heck of a good story. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
March 24, 2020
ALWAYS Great!
One more book in the Daniel Rinaldi series to read and then I'm caught up. I actually think it just gets better book by book. For me personally, Dennis Palumbo has created a perfect series and character. I truly hope this series has the lasting power it deserves. Phantom Limb is full of suspense, action, emotion, and is nothing short of a thrill a minute. Daniel Rinaldi is so multi dimensional and the writing so realistic I feel like I could call him up and make an appointment!, or step up to the bar and order a drink from Noah. HEAD WOUNDS.... here I come!!!!!
One more book in the Daniel Rinaldi series to read and then I'm caught up. I actually think it just gets better book by book. For me personally, Dennis Palumbo has created a perfect series and character. I truly hope this series has the lasting power it deserves. Phantom Limb is full of suspense, action, emotion, and is nothing short of a thrill a minute. Daniel Rinaldi is so multi dimensional and the writing so realistic I feel like I could call him up and make an appointment!, or step up to the bar and order a drink from Noah. HEAD WOUNDS.... here I come!!!!!
May 31, 2015
Pretty interesting mystery starring a psychologist who gets drawn in when an old B movie star comes to see him to keep her from suicide but gets kidnapped right outside his office door. The minor characters are kind of stock...nasty old businessman/CEO; evil, twisted, rich son; faithful retainers; and Mafia criminals. But I did like personalities of the main character, his friends, and the kidnap victim.
November 3, 2014
Phantom Limb was the first book of Dennis Palumbo's that I've read and it was excellent! Palumbo does a great job of building characters that the reader cares for. He also ties up all the loose ends, while leaving the reader waiting and wanting more...
June 26, 2015
I wanted to read more of it, and somehow I wanted it to develop even more.
Easy to follow narrative of the smartest and coolest psychiatrist one could think of, and wonderful portrayal of popular characters and their real faces and feelings.
Easy to follow narrative of the smartest and coolest psychiatrist one could think of, and wonderful portrayal of popular characters and their real faces and feelings.
September 2, 2014
My first A Daniel Rinaldi Mystery, but it will not be my last. Now I need to begin with the first in the series.
December 4, 2014
For thriller and crime fans, this one is certainly worth your time. Quick enjoyable read. Another great find from Poisoned Pen Press
October 31, 2014
Pittsburgh setting makes up for some of the creaky explanations that come at the end of the book in this workmanlike thriller.
November 16, 2014
This is a very impressive thriller and maintains the high standard of books in this series.
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November 30, 2014
Like this author - more than his "I am smarter than anyone else " main character. Still a good read.
September 25, 2014
Another excellent novel from Dennis Palumbo.
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