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The Neve & Egan Cases #1
Russian Dolls
She’s lost a friend. He’s lost his sight. Can this unlikely duo solve an untouchable murder?College student Alexandra Neve never backs down from a challenge. So when her BFF Irina dies of an apparent suicide, she channels her grief into cracking the case police refuse to touch. After discovering a mysterious list of Russian names in her friend’s room, Neve’s attempts to retrace Irina’s steps nabs her an unexpected crime-solving partner.
With the help of her blind history professor Ashford Egan, Neve connects the suspicious death to a recent London murder. But as the Russian mafia closes in, student and teacher alike must quickly find a witness willing to tell all. Because revealing the secrets of a dark enterprise could have deadly consequences…
Can Neve and Egan expose the twisted truth before they become the next victims?
Russian Dolls is the first book in the refreshingly unique Neve & Egan Cases mystery series. If you like unlikely partnerships, plots lifted straight from the headlines, and twists you won’t see coming, then you’ll love Cristelle Comby’s gripping whodunit.
With the help of her blind history professor Ashford Egan, Neve connects the suspicious death to a recent London murder. But as the Russian mafia closes in, student and teacher alike must quickly find a witness willing to tell all. Because revealing the secrets of a dark enterprise could have deadly consequences…
Can Neve and Egan expose the twisted truth before they become the next victims?
Russian Dolls is the first book in the refreshingly unique Neve & Egan Cases mystery series. If you like unlikely partnerships, plots lifted straight from the headlines, and twists you won’t see coming, then you’ll love Cristelle Comby’s gripping whodunit.
318 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2013
51 people are currently reading
1038 people want to read
About the author
Cristelle Comby
16 books262 followersCristelle Comby was born and raised in the French-speaking area of Switzerland, in Greater Geneva, where she still resides.
She attributes to her origins her ever-peaceful nature and her undying love for chocolate. She has a passion for art, which also includes an interest in drawing and acting.
She is the author of the Neve & Egan Cases series, which features an unlikely duo of private detectives in London: Ashford Egan, a blind History professor, and Alexandra Neve, one of his students.
Currently, she is hard at work on her Urban Fantasy series Vale Investigation which chronicles the exploits of Death’s only envoy on Earth, PI Bellamy Vale, in the fictitious town of Cold City, USA.
She attributes to her origins her ever-peaceful nature and her undying love for chocolate. She has a passion for art, which also includes an interest in drawing and acting.
She is the author of the Neve & Egan Cases series, which features an unlikely duo of private detectives in London: Ashford Egan, a blind History professor, and Alexandra Neve, one of his students.
Currently, she is hard at work on her Urban Fantasy series Vale Investigation which chronicles the exploits of Death’s only envoy on Earth, PI Bellamy Vale, in the fictitious town of Cold City, USA.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
June 14, 2022
A short story to introduce the two main characters of the author's "Neve & Egan" series. The story isn't long enough to get any real insight into Professor Egan but we do get a nice back story for Lexa (Alexandra). I have another book or two of this series on my Kindle and I look forward to finding out how the characters evolve.
Merged review:
Dang ..... this was so damn good I just flew through the book in record speed! I absolutely love this author's style of writing, it clicked with me straight away for both her Neve and Egan book and her Redemption Road series. These are two series I'm definitely going to follow.
I suppose the novel qualifies as a "cosy" mystery in that there are no graphic descriptions of sex and both antagonists are amateur sleuths, but it couldn't be farther from the truth. There is a grittiness to the plot and palpable tension while the two investigate the very serious topic of sex trafficking which Neve believes brought about the death of her best friend.
I particularly enjoyed the constant banter, snarkiness and misunderstandings between the student and her professor and how she is slowly trying to get a very damaged man to come out of his shell. I can't wait to delve more into the series to see what develops between the two and also how far Professor Egan is going to heal.
Highly recommended read.
Merged review:
Dang ..... this was so damn good I just flew through the book in record speed! I absolutely love this author's style of writing, it clicked with me straight away for both her Neve and Egan book and her Redemption Road series. These are two series I'm definitely going to follow.
I suppose the novel qualifies as a "cosy" mystery in that there are no graphic descriptions of sex and both antagonists are amateur sleuths, but it couldn't be farther from the truth. There is a grittiness to the plot and palpable tension while the two investigate the very serious topic of sex trafficking which Neve believes brought about the death of her best friend.
I particularly enjoyed the constant banter, snarkiness and misunderstandings between the student and her professor and how she is slowly trying to get a very damaged man to come out of his shell. I can't wait to delve more into the series to see what develops between the two and also how far Professor Egan is going to heal.
Highly recommended read.
January 24, 2020
So. The MC is dumb as hell, whiney and impulsive. The plot is wobbly and the rest of the chars in the universe are equally stupid.
Yet I don't give a flying fuck because she and Egan are adorable. Sue me.
Yet I don't give a flying fuck because she and Egan are adorable. Sue me.
November 5, 2014
This book was recently entered and was a finalist in The Wishing Shelf Book Awards. this is what our readers thought:
FEEDBACK
Author: Ms Cristelle Comby
Title: Russian Dolls
COVER: 10/10
The readers thought the cover was excellent. They liked the strong, central image and the 1920s feel of the title lettering. They felt the cover was uncluttered and many of them commented positively on the blurb. They felt it was well-written and enticing.
CONTENT 9/10
All the readers enjoyed this crime novel very much. They liked the central characters, particularly the professor who is blind. They very much enjoyed the unpredictable plot and all the twists and turns. Many of the readers did not fall in love with Alexandra; they felt she was too stubborn, but they still enjoyed following her as she attempts to uncover what really happened to Irina. One reader (man, aged 39) put in his feedback, ‘I enjoyed this crime novel very much. I liked the interesting characters, particularly Professor Egan. I always enjoy a story where the characters are not perfect. It adds an interesting perspective to the story.’
A number of the readers commented on how well the author described Alexandra’s feeling at the funeral at the beginning of the book.
EDITING 10/10
The readers discovered no problems with grammar, spelling or punctuation. They also felt the book had excellent pacing, with a powerful opening chapter and a strong, interesting ending.
STYLE 8/10
In general, the readers enjoyed the style of writing. They felt the author did a good job of keeping up the pace of the story and of developing her two major characters. They also felt the author worked hard to describe character and setting in an interesting way.
A few of the readers commented on the first person, present tense narrative. One reader (woman, aged 57) put in her feedback, ‘This style of writing is becoming very common now. It works well in many ways. It’s sort of like sitting in a simulator; the reader becoming the central character in the story and experiencing everything in real time. I often find the first chapter of a book written this way a bit jarring, but when I get into it, I forget the style and enjoy the plot.’
TO SUM UP 37/40
STATS
Of the 23 readers:
23 thought the cover was good or very good;
18 felt the best part of the book was the twisting plot.
5 felt the best part of the book was the professor.
23 would like to read another book by this author.
‘Engaging and unpredictable. If you enjoy a good crime novel, you will enjoy this. Highly recommended.’ The Wishing Shelf Awards
FEEDBACK
Author: Ms Cristelle Comby
Title: Russian Dolls
COVER: 10/10
The readers thought the cover was excellent. They liked the strong, central image and the 1920s feel of the title lettering. They felt the cover was uncluttered and many of them commented positively on the blurb. They felt it was well-written and enticing.
CONTENT 9/10
All the readers enjoyed this crime novel very much. They liked the central characters, particularly the professor who is blind. They very much enjoyed the unpredictable plot and all the twists and turns. Many of the readers did not fall in love with Alexandra; they felt she was too stubborn, but they still enjoyed following her as she attempts to uncover what really happened to Irina. One reader (man, aged 39) put in his feedback, ‘I enjoyed this crime novel very much. I liked the interesting characters, particularly Professor Egan. I always enjoy a story where the characters are not perfect. It adds an interesting perspective to the story.’
A number of the readers commented on how well the author described Alexandra’s feeling at the funeral at the beginning of the book.
EDITING 10/10
The readers discovered no problems with grammar, spelling or punctuation. They also felt the book had excellent pacing, with a powerful opening chapter and a strong, interesting ending.
STYLE 8/10
In general, the readers enjoyed the style of writing. They felt the author did a good job of keeping up the pace of the story and of developing her two major characters. They also felt the author worked hard to describe character and setting in an interesting way.
A few of the readers commented on the first person, present tense narrative. One reader (woman, aged 57) put in her feedback, ‘This style of writing is becoming very common now. It works well in many ways. It’s sort of like sitting in a simulator; the reader becoming the central character in the story and experiencing everything in real time. I often find the first chapter of a book written this way a bit jarring, but when I get into it, I forget the style and enjoy the plot.’
TO SUM UP 37/40
STATS
Of the 23 readers:
23 thought the cover was good or very good;
18 felt the best part of the book was the twisting plot.
5 felt the best part of the book was the professor.
23 would like to read another book by this author.
‘Engaging and unpredictable. If you enjoy a good crime novel, you will enjoy this. Highly recommended.’ The Wishing Shelf Awards
March 21, 2013
Originally posted at: http://www.longandshortreviews.com/bo...
Welcome to a new detective team. This first book in The Neve&Egan Cases introduces us to an unlikely duo in the annals of detective fiction – a blind professor and his student. Comby makes it work.
The characters are the most interesting part of this book–to see the growth of Alexandra Neve as she plays off the steadier Ash Egan is interesting. She’s determined to prove that her friend did not commit suicide. Egan is steadier and provides a guiding hand when she wants to rush off half-cocked. On the other hand, Egan is withdrawn and friendless and Neve offers companionship he so desperately needs.
The plot is interesting–going from Alexandra’s conviction that her friend didn’t commit suicide to the discovery of a mysterious list to links to involvement in human trafficing and money laundrying, and more. I’m interested to see what else Ms. Comby has in store for Neve & Egan.
Welcome to a new detective team. This first book in The Neve&Egan Cases introduces us to an unlikely duo in the annals of detective fiction – a blind professor and his student. Comby makes it work.
The characters are the most interesting part of this book–to see the growth of Alexandra Neve as she plays off the steadier Ash Egan is interesting. She’s determined to prove that her friend did not commit suicide. Egan is steadier and provides a guiding hand when she wants to rush off half-cocked. On the other hand, Egan is withdrawn and friendless and Neve offers companionship he so desperately needs.
The plot is interesting–going from Alexandra’s conviction that her friend didn’t commit suicide to the discovery of a mysterious list to links to involvement in human trafficing and money laundrying, and more. I’m interested to see what else Ms. Comby has in store for Neve & Egan.
December 8, 2013
I was surprised by this book. I wasn't sure that it would be one that I would get into and enjoy. The subject matter seemed like it would be a hard one to dive into. I was surprised by the writing and plot. Both were well done.
Alexandra is a young college student mourning the death of her best friend. The clues left by her friend do not add up to a suicide. She begins to question and research to find out what really happened. She is lead down an unlikely path, with the help of her blind professor, Ashford Egan, they are able to unravel a very tightly woven thread.
Their questions lead them to action, mystery, and danger. They uncover clues that put them in the path of the Russian mafia and other unscrupulous men.
I would recommed this book to a mature reader. The only content warning comes from a victim's description of her rape and contains the 'f' bomb.
Alexandra is a young college student mourning the death of her best friend. The clues left by her friend do not add up to a suicide. She begins to question and research to find out what really happened. She is lead down an unlikely path, with the help of her blind professor, Ashford Egan, they are able to unravel a very tightly woven thread.
Their questions lead them to action, mystery, and danger. They uncover clues that put them in the path of the Russian mafia and other unscrupulous men.
I would recommed this book to a mature reader. The only content warning comes from a victim's description of her rape and contains the 'f' bomb.
February 18, 2017
I enjoyed the first part of this book and thought the partnership of a British college student and her blind history professor was interesting. The deeper I got into the book, however the more thoughtless and reckless the college student becomes. She endangers her own life and the life of her partner and even so, at the end of the book she is praised by a member of police force for her work and encouraged to continue! To be fair she does get to the bottom of a murder the police thought was suicide but, to me, that did not cause the risks she took to make any more sense.
October 10, 2017
I don't think I'd list this as 'thriller' its got the twists and turns that make it almost a thriller but at no point did I feel scared...
This book however is really good, and I really enjoyed it. Its even amusing, earning a few smirks or even chuckles from me while reading this. I found myself unable to put it down.
This was a random find and it was really lucky I found it. Probably a favourite read of the year!!
This book however is really good, and I really enjoyed it. Its even amusing, earning a few smirks or even chuckles from me while reading this. I found myself unable to put it down.
This was a random find and it was really lucky I found it. Probably a favourite read of the year!!
September 19, 2018
Two misfit characters with problems of their own, one a blind professor, Ashford Egan and one a student, Alexandra Neve find a common bond and a growing friendship while they try to solve the mystery of the questionable suicide of Alexandra's only real friend in school, Irania and involving the Russian mofia, human trafficking, and weapons while trying to stay alive doing so. Alexandra's problem is she has a hard time listening when she could get hurt and diving head first into what could be her demise without thinking. Her stubborness gets her and Ash into trouble many times. And the mafia tries to take her down before she and Ash can find the truth. This thriller keeps you turning pages which are full of red-herrings, twists and turns and dead ends. I loved the end which leaves you wanting to read the next book in the series. I received a copy of this book from the author but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.
September 18, 2018
Alexandra Neve is a student at UCL, London. Her blind History professor is pretty much a loner, and has an extremely sharp tongue when his students does something he doesn't like.
When Irina, Alexa's best and pretty much only friend is found dead, the police rule it a suicide. Alexa determines to find the truth of the matter, and prove she was murdered. Due to a strange set of circumstances, Alexa and professor Asford Egan team up, and discover they are like minded in finding the truth, and form an unusual friendship.
This is an excellent tale with well defined characters, a lot of humor in the beginning, and enough drama and twist in the story to keep the pages turning until the end.
When Irina, Alexa's best and pretty much only friend is found dead, the police rule it a suicide. Alexa determines to find the truth of the matter, and prove she was murdered. Due to a strange set of circumstances, Alexa and professor Asford Egan team up, and discover they are like minded in finding the truth, and form an unusual friendship.
This is an excellent tale with well defined characters, a lot of humor in the beginning, and enough drama and twist in the story to keep the pages turning until the end.
September 20, 2018
Wow talk about an interesting who done it.. totally enjoyed the story line and unlikely pair of detectives. Hopefully the continued books come in a set be cause I can’t wait to read the further adventures.
September 14, 2018
Allow a full day for this brilliant thriller introducing Alexandra Neve and Ashland Egan. I read an ARC and this voluntary review is my own opinion.
April 15, 2013
I received a complimentary copy of this book as a part of a book tour in exchange for a fair and honest review. I rated it 4.5 out of 5.
I found myself connecting with Cristelle Comby's Russian Dolls in a way I didn't expect, like her main character I'm somewhat quiet and keep to myself. I felt as if "Lexa" was a real person and someone I knew . While I tend to read more romantic suspense than just plain mystery, I really fell in love with Ms. Comby's characters and found myself staying up late and turning the pages to find out what was going to happen next. Touching on the timely subject of human trafficking, Ms. Comby's story gives us another glimpse into just how pervasive crime can be in our daily lives.
When college student Irina Anderson commits suicide by jumping off the roof of a building, her best friend Alexandra "Lexa" Neve can't believe it was a voluntary choice. Mostly a loner, Lexa knows Irina had a bright future and wouldn't have ended her life - something or someone had to have forced her to jump. Determined to conduct her own "real" investigation, she knows the cops have never investigated it as a homicide, Lexa accidentally stumbles across a clue. A clue that will lead to a new friend, organized crime and a new direction for her own future.
Blind, middle aged Professor Ashford "Ash" Egan knows Alexandra Neve is both quiet and smart. Her sudden curiosity about Russian geography on the heels of her friend's death, lets him know something is up. Gaining her confidence is easy, becoming her real friend takes both time and letting her get close. Something he's had trouble doing. When it's clear Lexa is in over her head, Ash is determined to help her stay one step ahead of the criminals and help her solve the mystery behind her friend's death.
While mostly a straight mystery/suspense book, Ms. Comby does give us a couple of different relationships inside this book; we get to see Lexa's relationship with her mom, her memories of her relationship with Irina, her growing friendship with Ash, and even the mild beginnings of a romance between Lexa and a local detective. While Lexa is quiet and hasn't made friends easily, she's honorable, tenacious and devoted to the people she has in her life. No one is going to get away with hurting one of her friends.
Ms. Comby also gives us Ash, a middle aged professor whose personality issues make him the perfect candidate to be Lexa's friend. He too has issues with the average person, doesn't make friends easily, and hasn't quite managed to deal with his blindness. At the same time, he and Lexa share many things in common; he's a decent human being, he's devoted to keeping Lexa safe, and he's able to see things from a different perspective than Lexa, which helps them investigate the crime.
While I was able to identify one of the villains at the start of the story, or at least I was suspicious of him from the start, Ms. Comby does a good job of keeping both the mystery alive and the plot moving at a good pace. While the police don't exactly come off as a shining example of justice at the beginning of this story, they do manage to get it together towards the end.
Will Lexa and Ash solve the mystery behind Irina's death and discover the identity of the mastermind behind the crime? You'll have to read Russian Dolls, the first book in the Neve & Egan Cases to find out. I can't wait to see what adventure Lexa and Ash find themselves involved in next.
I found myself connecting with Cristelle Comby's Russian Dolls in a way I didn't expect, like her main character I'm somewhat quiet and keep to myself. I felt as if "Lexa" was a real person and someone I knew . While I tend to read more romantic suspense than just plain mystery, I really fell in love with Ms. Comby's characters and found myself staying up late and turning the pages to find out what was going to happen next. Touching on the timely subject of human trafficking, Ms. Comby's story gives us another glimpse into just how pervasive crime can be in our daily lives.
When college student Irina Anderson commits suicide by jumping off the roof of a building, her best friend Alexandra "Lexa" Neve can't believe it was a voluntary choice. Mostly a loner, Lexa knows Irina had a bright future and wouldn't have ended her life - something or someone had to have forced her to jump. Determined to conduct her own "real" investigation, she knows the cops have never investigated it as a homicide, Lexa accidentally stumbles across a clue. A clue that will lead to a new friend, organized crime and a new direction for her own future.
Blind, middle aged Professor Ashford "Ash" Egan knows Alexandra Neve is both quiet and smart. Her sudden curiosity about Russian geography on the heels of her friend's death, lets him know something is up. Gaining her confidence is easy, becoming her real friend takes both time and letting her get close. Something he's had trouble doing. When it's clear Lexa is in over her head, Ash is determined to help her stay one step ahead of the criminals and help her solve the mystery behind her friend's death.
While mostly a straight mystery/suspense book, Ms. Comby does give us a couple of different relationships inside this book; we get to see Lexa's relationship with her mom, her memories of her relationship with Irina, her growing friendship with Ash, and even the mild beginnings of a romance between Lexa and a local detective. While Lexa is quiet and hasn't made friends easily, she's honorable, tenacious and devoted to the people she has in her life. No one is going to get away with hurting one of her friends.
Ms. Comby also gives us Ash, a middle aged professor whose personality issues make him the perfect candidate to be Lexa's friend. He too has issues with the average person, doesn't make friends easily, and hasn't quite managed to deal with his blindness. At the same time, he and Lexa share many things in common; he's a decent human being, he's devoted to keeping Lexa safe, and he's able to see things from a different perspective than Lexa, which helps them investigate the crime.
While I was able to identify one of the villains at the start of the story, or at least I was suspicious of him from the start, Ms. Comby does a good job of keeping both the mystery alive and the plot moving at a good pace. While the police don't exactly come off as a shining example of justice at the beginning of this story, they do manage to get it together towards the end.
Will Lexa and Ash solve the mystery behind Irina's death and discover the identity of the mastermind behind the crime? You'll have to read Russian Dolls, the first book in the Neve & Egan Cases to find out. I can't wait to see what adventure Lexa and Ash find themselves involved in next.
April 3, 2013
Playing Jokers Blog: all suits of genres and bookish news
I’ve never read a book that was specifically marketed as ‘New Adult’. I fall squarely within the intended audience of this new marketing phenomenon but I still am not quite sure I understand it. I’ve read my fair share of young adult and adult books, so it was definitely interesting to read something that was perhaps a bit more in-between.
Alexandra Neve and Ashford Egan are definitely not your typical sleuth pair. Similar to Dark Lie, where the main character suffered from Lupus, I enjoyed that the main characters are not extraordinarily beautiful or ‘perfect’. Egan’s blindness offered an interesting element to the mystery.
I enjoyed Russian Dolls for its intrigue and unpredictability. I am never that good at guessing where a mystery is going in the first place, but I didn’t find myself not wondering what was going to happen next, or what the resolution was going to be. The writing was at its strongest during the action scenes.
I did not give this book 5 stars because, Porca vacca! It could get a little repetitive. Alexandra started really bugging me in her inability to follow directions, particularly when the directions were coming from the police. I understand that it was imperative to have her be in the thick of it for the sake of there to be a story as it was written in first person, but her absolute refusal to follow directions, especially when they were important ones really bugged me. However, it could be said that that was strength of the character because she remains true to herself in that she is a very stubborn character and very well likely not have listened to her elders.
As far as whether this book fits within the New Adult category? I’d say yes. The main character is in her early twenties, trying to figure out who she is and the more adult themes are refreshing after some of the PG young adult reads out there. I think people are wrong when they try to say that New Adult should remain innocent of real violence or deep themes. Russian Dolls, while dealing with human trafficking and gang activity, is an exhilarating read that can help remove you into its world.
I’ve never read a book that was specifically marketed as ‘New Adult’. I fall squarely within the intended audience of this new marketing phenomenon but I still am not quite sure I understand it. I’ve read my fair share of young adult and adult books, so it was definitely interesting to read something that was perhaps a bit more in-between.
Alexandra Neve and Ashford Egan are definitely not your typical sleuth pair. Similar to Dark Lie, where the main character suffered from Lupus, I enjoyed that the main characters are not extraordinarily beautiful or ‘perfect’. Egan’s blindness offered an interesting element to the mystery.
I enjoyed Russian Dolls for its intrigue and unpredictability. I am never that good at guessing where a mystery is going in the first place, but I didn’t find myself not wondering what was going to happen next, or what the resolution was going to be. The writing was at its strongest during the action scenes.
I did not give this book 5 stars because, Porca vacca! It could get a little repetitive. Alexandra started really bugging me in her inability to follow directions, particularly when the directions were coming from the police. I understand that it was imperative to have her be in the thick of it for the sake of there to be a story as it was written in first person, but her absolute refusal to follow directions, especially when they were important ones really bugged me. However, it could be said that that was strength of the character because she remains true to herself in that she is a very stubborn character and very well likely not have listened to her elders.
As far as whether this book fits within the New Adult category? I’d say yes. The main character is in her early twenties, trying to figure out who she is and the more adult themes are refreshing after some of the PG young adult reads out there. I think people are wrong when they try to say that New Adult should remain innocent of real violence or deep themes. Russian Dolls, while dealing with human trafficking and gang activity, is an exhilarating read that can help remove you into its world.
March 28, 2013
This may be the fifth book about human sex trafficking that I have read in the past five months, and it never ceases to completely blow me away! This book leaves the familiar Mexican/Hispanic tie-in and tackles another area I never thought about--Russia.
Let's tackle the first thing. This book is almost completely free of profanity (the minor instances don't really bother me), and sex is only talked about. Morality is high, and justice is served. This is the first book in the series, and the ending left me practically breathless. I realized that I was going to be left hanging about ten pages before I finished the book, but it is not one of those endings that upset me. There is resolution, but there is a promise for more. All I can say is that Ms. Comby needs to get the next book out as soon as possible!
I love mysteries, and this book was everything I could have wanted from that standpoint. It also dealt with an important issue. But all these things do no automatically equal a 5-star rating. Neve and Egan are amazing detectives, and you never would have paired them up as amateur detectives. But they make it work, and it is one wild ride. I experienced it all: anger, humor, suspense, and practically nonstop action! This book is not for the faint of heart.
When I began the book, I liked it, but I almost viewed it as a chore. I truly enjoyed the story, but I just didn't lose myself into it until a little bit later. In fact, as I approached the last third of the book, I was so mesmerized that I lost track of where I was and what time it was! I had to know what the outcome would be.
My heart was touched as evidence and stories emerged. I found myself pondering this horrible crime against humanity, and I discussed it in detail with my mother. There is nothing like an outstanding, engaging story with a message, and I can assure you this book delivers just that. It is a fast read, and you will probably view your world differently once you finish it.
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.
Let's tackle the first thing. This book is almost completely free of profanity (the minor instances don't really bother me), and sex is only talked about. Morality is high, and justice is served. This is the first book in the series, and the ending left me practically breathless. I realized that I was going to be left hanging about ten pages before I finished the book, but it is not one of those endings that upset me. There is resolution, but there is a promise for more. All I can say is that Ms. Comby needs to get the next book out as soon as possible!
I love mysteries, and this book was everything I could have wanted from that standpoint. It also dealt with an important issue. But all these things do no automatically equal a 5-star rating. Neve and Egan are amazing detectives, and you never would have paired them up as amateur detectives. But they make it work, and it is one wild ride. I experienced it all: anger, humor, suspense, and practically nonstop action! This book is not for the faint of heart.
When I began the book, I liked it, but I almost viewed it as a chore. I truly enjoyed the story, but I just didn't lose myself into it until a little bit later. In fact, as I approached the last third of the book, I was so mesmerized that I lost track of where I was and what time it was! I had to know what the outcome would be.
My heart was touched as evidence and stories emerged. I found myself pondering this horrible crime against humanity, and I discussed it in detail with my mother. There is nothing like an outstanding, engaging story with a message, and I can assure you this book delivers just that. It is a fast read, and you will probably view your world differently once you finish it.
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.
August 31, 2013
Book review originally published here: http://www.iheartreading.net/reviews/...
Russian Dolls reminded me of a mature, gritty version of Veronica Mars. Alexandra Neve, our main character, doesn’t want to become your typical mystery-solving sleuth, but she’s forced into the role after her best friend commits suicide by jumping off a school building. When Alexandra finds a note with a list of names hidden in her best friend’s bedroom, she realizes there may be more going on than just a suicide. She never believed Idrana would take her own life in the first place, and with the clues adding up, it seems like something else is going on.
Alexandra finds an unexpected ally in her blind professor, Mr. Ashford Egan. He’s a grumpy, bitter man, but his intellect and quick wit make him the perfect ally for Alexandra. He recognizes the names Alexandra found as being names of towns all around Russia. When the two of them dive deeper into the mystery, they uncover a secret human trafficking organization, and before they very well realize it, put themselves in harm’s way.
I liked how Neve and Egan were an unlikely sleuthing pair, but yet they work remarkably well. I enjoyed Egan’s sarcastic, dry sense of humor, and Alexandra’s down-to-earth view on life. While the MC is a ‘new adult’ (and fits perfectly within the new genre of “new adult”) this book would be an excellent fit for the older young adult audience, and the adult audience alike. There’s action, mystery, suspense and a lot of character development. Some more grown up topics are touched upon, but in a mature, distanced way. There’s no swearing or profanity, which is a bonus. Lately, it seems like all the mystery novels I’ve read are wrapped in a layer of profanity with a bit of swearing on top. Here, no such thing – thank God.
Russian Dolls is a great debut novel. The author certainly managed to keep up the suspense, and to keep me at the edge of my seat until the end. I can’t wait to read more about the Neve and Egan cases.
Russian Dolls reminded me of a mature, gritty version of Veronica Mars. Alexandra Neve, our main character, doesn’t want to become your typical mystery-solving sleuth, but she’s forced into the role after her best friend commits suicide by jumping off a school building. When Alexandra finds a note with a list of names hidden in her best friend’s bedroom, she realizes there may be more going on than just a suicide. She never believed Idrana would take her own life in the first place, and with the clues adding up, it seems like something else is going on.
Alexandra finds an unexpected ally in her blind professor, Mr. Ashford Egan. He’s a grumpy, bitter man, but his intellect and quick wit make him the perfect ally for Alexandra. He recognizes the names Alexandra found as being names of towns all around Russia. When the two of them dive deeper into the mystery, they uncover a secret human trafficking organization, and before they very well realize it, put themselves in harm’s way.
I liked how Neve and Egan were an unlikely sleuthing pair, but yet they work remarkably well. I enjoyed Egan’s sarcastic, dry sense of humor, and Alexandra’s down-to-earth view on life. While the MC is a ‘new adult’ (and fits perfectly within the new genre of “new adult”) this book would be an excellent fit for the older young adult audience, and the adult audience alike. There’s action, mystery, suspense and a lot of character development. Some more grown up topics are touched upon, but in a mature, distanced way. There’s no swearing or profanity, which is a bonus. Lately, it seems like all the mystery novels I’ve read are wrapped in a layer of profanity with a bit of swearing on top. Here, no such thing – thank God.
Russian Dolls is a great debut novel. The author certainly managed to keep up the suspense, and to keep me at the edge of my seat until the end. I can’t wait to read more about the Neve and Egan cases.
June 8, 2016
1st-card of Tarot Deck
"Russian Dolls" by Cristelle Conby is a mystery-detective tale. A duo of unlikely sleuths sets this narrative apart from others. On one hand you have "Ash" Egan, an introverted history professor and blind to boot. On the other hand, you have "Lexa" Neve, a fearless, determined yet very naïve university student. These two amateurs don't seem to have necessary skills to confront a vortex of organized crime. It's a tribute to the author that she manages to pull it off with aplomb.
# The hunt begins when Lexa's roommate's body is discovered, an apparent suicide. Lexa gets her history professor "Ash" to help with her investigation. His "enhanced" sense of hearing acts like a natural lie detector.
# The high point of this narrative is the wonderful interplay between Lexa and Ash. They joke as if the reclusive professor is about to finesse a romantic tryst, but in truth Ash fulfills the role of her dead father, while Nexa pries into his habits and brings him out of himself. Their adventures and dialogues are well-crafted and enjoyable to read.
# As every student of the Tarot knows, the Fool is more than meets the eye. The Fool is the instigator, the trigger from which all else follows. Here is a brief descript in the author's own words:
# "...when a man is standing at the top of a cliff, it isn’t fear of falling that keeps him rooted to the edge — it’s the fear of not being able to resist the desire to jump, just to see what falling feels like."
# Conby presents an authentic rendition of a police procedural, although from the viewpoint of amateurs. She's is surprisingly good at describing physical conflicts and dangerous confrontations. I enjoyed this eBook and recommend it for others—mystery lovers or otherwise. 4.4 Stars.
"Russian Dolls" by Cristelle Conby is a mystery-detective tale. A duo of unlikely sleuths sets this narrative apart from others. On one hand you have "Ash" Egan, an introverted history professor and blind to boot. On the other hand, you have "Lexa" Neve, a fearless, determined yet very naïve university student. These two amateurs don't seem to have necessary skills to confront a vortex of organized crime. It's a tribute to the author that she manages to pull it off with aplomb.
# The hunt begins when Lexa's roommate's body is discovered, an apparent suicide. Lexa gets her history professor "Ash" to help with her investigation. His "enhanced" sense of hearing acts like a natural lie detector.
# The high point of this narrative is the wonderful interplay between Lexa and Ash. They joke as if the reclusive professor is about to finesse a romantic tryst, but in truth Ash fulfills the role of her dead father, while Nexa pries into his habits and brings him out of himself. Their adventures and dialogues are well-crafted and enjoyable to read.
# As every student of the Tarot knows, the Fool is more than meets the eye. The Fool is the instigator, the trigger from which all else follows. Here is a brief descript in the author's own words:
# "...when a man is standing at the top of a cliff, it isn’t fear of falling that keeps him rooted to the edge — it’s the fear of not being able to resist the desire to jump, just to see what falling feels like."
# Conby presents an authentic rendition of a police procedural, although from the viewpoint of amateurs. She's is surprisingly good at describing physical conflicts and dangerous confrontations. I enjoyed this eBook and recommend it for others—mystery lovers or otherwise. 4.4 Stars.
April 7, 2013
When Alexandra's friend Irina dies suddenly, she refuses to believe the police when they rule it suicide and close the case. Finding a list of names and cities in Irina's room, she begins to investigate with the help of her history professor, Egan Ashford. They stumble into a human trafficking ring run by the Russian Mafia.
"Russian Dolls" is an absorbing mystery novel with a unique detective duo. While they are amateurs, a popular device in many series, they are different from most. Alexandra (Lexa) is a college student, and Egan (Ash) is her middle-aged, blind professor. Much of the appeal of this novel is due to this pairing. Lexa tends to rush into situations without thinking, while Ash is, of necessity, more careful. They balance one another nicely.
While the plot wasn't the best I've read, it held my interest and did not drag. The only problem was that the premise of the Russian Mafia somehow felt like overkill. This, however, is only my opinion. The novel is the first in a series, so I'm sure the characters and plots will develop over time. I look forward to the next installment.
4 stars
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I am a member of Reading Addiction Blog Tours and a copy of this book was provided to me by the author. Although payment may have been received by Reading Addiction Blog Tours, no payment was received by me in exchange for this review. There was no obligation to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are entirely my own and may not necessarily agree with those of the author, publisher, publicist, or readers of this review. This disclosure is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision’s 16 CFR, Part 255, Guides Concerning Use of Endorcements and Testimonials in Advertising*
"Russian Dolls" is an absorbing mystery novel with a unique detective duo. While they are amateurs, a popular device in many series, they are different from most. Alexandra (Lexa) is a college student, and Egan (Ash) is her middle-aged, blind professor. Much of the appeal of this novel is due to this pairing. Lexa tends to rush into situations without thinking, while Ash is, of necessity, more careful. They balance one another nicely.
While the plot wasn't the best I've read, it held my interest and did not drag. The only problem was that the premise of the Russian Mafia somehow felt like overkill. This, however, is only my opinion. The novel is the first in a series, so I'm sure the characters and plots will develop over time. I look forward to the next installment.
4 stars
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I am a member of Reading Addiction Blog Tours and a copy of this book was provided to me by the author. Although payment may have been received by Reading Addiction Blog Tours, no payment was received by me in exchange for this review. There was no obligation to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are entirely my own and may not necessarily agree with those of the author, publisher, publicist, or readers of this review. This disclosure is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision’s 16 CFR, Part 255, Guides Concerning Use of Endorcements and Testimonials in Advertising*
April 7, 2013
When an unexpected death hits close to home, Neve is overcome with denial. She doesn't want to believe that her friend who loved life and always had a smile on her face has committed suicide, but the police cannot find any evidence to prove otherwise. So Neve decides to conduct her own investigation as she is certain that Irina didn't commit suicide but that Irina was well in fact murdered. Along with the help of her professor she goes on a hunt to find out the truth behind Irina's murder.
A five star mystery that can't be put down. Its like watching a TV show you cannot just leave it playing when you leave the room cause you might miss something. Russian dolls was amazing the writing was perfect, the plot was in a way unique since the student was helped by a teacher usually teachers don't let you get into anything dangerous but this was not the case . The only flaw that I found was that Neve kind of caved in way to quickly I mean she blurted everything out. But other than that it was a really really great read.
Neve and Egan were amazing characters, Neve really amazed me when she took control of the situations she showed how brave she was just by going in there and facing those guys. Finding out who was involved was like a slap to the face it literately took me by surprise because I kinda knew but I didn't want to believe it. I can't stop thinking about the ending, It's hard to review this book without giving away spoilers because every piece of info would be part of a spoiler so I will stop the gushing now
A five star mystery that can't be put down. Its like watching a TV show you cannot just leave it playing when you leave the room cause you might miss something. Russian dolls was amazing the writing was perfect, the plot was in a way unique since the student was helped by a teacher usually teachers don't let you get into anything dangerous but this was not the case . The only flaw that I found was that Neve kind of caved in way to quickly I mean she blurted everything out. But other than that it was a really really great read.
Neve and Egan were amazing characters, Neve really amazed me when she took control of the situations she showed how brave she was just by going in there and facing those guys. Finding out who was involved was like a slap to the face it literately took me by surprise because I kinda knew but I didn't want to believe it. I can't stop thinking about the ending, It's hard to review this book without giving away spoilers because every piece of info would be part of a spoiler so I will stop the gushing now
March 10, 2014
Alexandra has lost her best friend but does not believe the conclusion of the police that her friend committed suicide. While paying condolences are her friend’s house she finds a clue that she must follow and the hunt for Irina’s killer is begun. Involving her blind history professor seems a fluke but the two seem to balance one another out and as the sleuthing continues the two become better and better friends. The book is action packed and filled with twists and turns. At times I wished that Ashford, the professor, was younger because they seem so suited to one another. I found it difficult to believe that some of the behavior of Lexa and Ash characters would actually happen as written BUT it is after all fiction and fiction is meant to be a bit unreal at times. Russians, mafia, arms traders, murderers, human trafficking and a conclusion that makes you want to see what will happen in book two are all found in this book. The writing is in first person and in present tense – not my favorite style to read – but it flows nicely and is well written with stellar plot and character development.
August 24, 2014
I registered a book at BookCrossing.com!
http://www.BookCrossing.com/journal/12470353
I received this book as a review copy through LibraryThing.com earlier this year, but only got around to reading it recently.
I was surprised how much I enjoyed it. The detective duo combination of a university student (Neve) and her blind history professor (Egan) is very good, and the way their relationship develops while investigating the suicide of one of Neve's friends is believable and interesting.
Throw in the (as usual in these types of story) incompetent/unfriendly police inspector, the lower-ranked police detective willing to help, the Russian mafia, people smugglers, corruption at the top .... well it all starts to sound familiar. But the way Christelle Comby puts it all together overcomes the usual cliches and makes it a great little read. ****1/2 stars.
I'm looking forward to reading the future adventures of Neve and Egan.
http://www.BookCrossing.com/journal/12470353
I received this book as a review copy through LibraryThing.com earlier this year, but only got around to reading it recently.
I was surprised how much I enjoyed it. The detective duo combination of a university student (Neve) and her blind history professor (Egan) is very good, and the way their relationship develops while investigating the suicide of one of Neve's friends is believable and interesting.
Throw in the (as usual in these types of story) incompetent/unfriendly police inspector, the lower-ranked police detective willing to help, the Russian mafia, people smugglers, corruption at the top .... well it all starts to sound familiar. But the way Christelle Comby puts it all together overcomes the usual cliches and makes it a great little read. ****1/2 stars.
I'm looking forward to reading the future adventures of Neve and Egan.
March 23, 2014
This new detective team from Ms. Comby's first in a series is an outrageously unlikely pair. A ditsy female university student and her blind, older, male professor and their adventures to solve the death (murder or suicide?) of the young lady's friend is a quick read. I had real trouble believing some of the things that came out of this student's mouth. Some of her actions were risky behaviors or down-right dangerous. Her dialogue was sometimes silly and naive. But then I had a full stop and said, "wait a minute." I have taught undergraduates and have come to know some students that had the same capabilities to make such stupid decisions. After I resolved my preconceived misgivings, I sped through the rest of the tale and enjoyed it very much. In fact, I am looking forward to reading installment number two from these sleuths. Many thanks to the author and LibraryThing for a complimentary copy.
May 9, 2016
In 2014, I read the third book in The Neve & Egan Cases, Danse Macabre. At the time, it didn't feel like I missed much starting partway into the series. The book drew me in right away and this crime-fighting duo were characters I enjoyed getting to know.
Having read Russian Dolls, however, definitely made me appreciate the third book more.
This novel is just as much about how Neve and Egan learn to work together as it is about the case they are determined to solve. It cements the personalities played out in future books and creates the villain they are destined to meet again.
Another thing I like about Russian Dolls is that it leaves important parts of Egan's history unknown. While typically loose ends are a no-no for me, here, I feel they are just one component of what will drive this series forward. I'm definitely eager to read Book 2, Ruby Heart, and Book 4, Blind Chess.
Russian Dolls is the beginning of a superb series that you must check out.
Having read Russian Dolls, however, definitely made me appreciate the third book more.
This novel is just as much about how Neve and Egan learn to work together as it is about the case they are determined to solve. It cements the personalities played out in future books and creates the villain they are destined to meet again.
Another thing I like about Russian Dolls is that it leaves important parts of Egan's history unknown. While typically loose ends are a no-no for me, here, I feel they are just one component of what will drive this series forward. I'm definitely eager to read Book 2, Ruby Heart, and Book 4, Blind Chess.
Russian Dolls is the beginning of a superb series that you must check out.
May 21, 2016
It 's a short but very exciting, realistic mystery.
Alexandra Neve is a student at University College London. She's a very lonely girl, doesn't make friends easily. Instead she is attuned with Irina since their first meeting and immediately she becomes her best friend. When Irina died by falling from the roof of the University, the police thinks it's a suicide but Alexandra disagrees. She finds a list of names in Irina's room and with the help of a blind professor of history will try to find out what really happened, although they will have to investigate in the Russian mafia circles.
This couple of detectives is really well-matched, it was really fun to see them work together. Excellent choice to use Alexandra as narrator of the story.
The plot is well developed and very intriguing, the pace is really fast thanks to short but concise sentences. I really liked the prologue.
I highly recommend it to those who love mystery
Alexandra Neve is a student at University College London. She's a very lonely girl, doesn't make friends easily. Instead she is attuned with Irina since their first meeting and immediately she becomes her best friend. When Irina died by falling from the roof of the University, the police thinks it's a suicide but Alexandra disagrees. She finds a list of names in Irina's room and with the help of a blind professor of history will try to find out what really happened, although they will have to investigate in the Russian mafia circles.
This couple of detectives is really well-matched, it was really fun to see them work together. Excellent choice to use Alexandra as narrator of the story.
The plot is well developed and very intriguing, the pace is really fast thanks to short but concise sentences. I really liked the prologue.
I highly recommend it to those who love mystery
June 1, 2013
Alexandra Neve is a student at University College London, when her world tragically falls apart. In a bizarre turn of events Alexandra's best friend jumps from the university’s rooftop and the police automatically assume her friend’s death was a suicide and close the case. Alexandra can't stop asking "Why”? And teams up with an unlikely ally named Ashford Egan to find the answers she desperately needs. I really enjoyed the storyline, and think that there's a little something that any reader would enjoy. This book has it all, plot twists; unique characters and lots of excitement to keep you interested every step of the way. I would give this book a 5 out of 5 stars and I’m looking forward to the next book!!!
5 Stars
Billie Jo
5 Stars
Billie Jo
November 25, 2013
This book grips your attention from the very beginning until the end. Alexandra does not believe her friends death is a suicide. She takes it upon herself to find the truth.
Alexandra finds an unlikely ally in her search. Her History professor Ashford Egan is helping her. Not only is it unlikely a college professor would help, Ashford Egan is blind!
As the search goes on they find out they unwillingly got involved with the murder, mafia, and Russian mail order brides.
This book is book 1 in the Neve & Egan series. I give this book a 5 out of 5.
Alexandra finds an unlikely ally in her search. Her History professor Ashford Egan is helping her. Not only is it unlikely a college professor would help, Ashford Egan is blind!
As the search goes on they find out they unwillingly got involved with the murder, mafia, and Russian mail order brides.
This book is book 1 in the Neve & Egan series. I give this book a 5 out of 5.
February 27, 2017
A modern day English murder mystery with two very unusual amateur detectives. One is a retiring shy female (Neve) university student. Her partner (Egan) is a middle aged blind professor who is disliked by both students and faculty. They are able to take on all comers while investigating the death of Neve's friend. This is a book which will peak your interest early on and it will not flag as the story progresses.
I have rated this book 4.5 stars.
I obtained this book from Amazon in Kindle format.
Thank you Frank for the Review
I have rated this book 4.5 stars.
I obtained this book from Amazon in Kindle format.
Thank you Frank for the Review
April 4, 2013
Cristelle pens "Russian Dolls" in a plot filled with mystery, suspense, crime and the Russian Mafia. With well developed, believable characters this book will keep you reading till the end. I was totally engrossed with the book and highly recommend it to all crime, mystery fans.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the author which was provided for an honest review.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the author which was provided for an honest review.
September 7, 2013
At the start, this felt like it would be really dull- I even debated giving up, but as it was part of a book group, I persevered, and am glad I did- I found myself sucked into both the story, and the emerging friendship between Neve & Egan. I would recommend this to anyone, and will definitely be reading more of this series
September 6, 2017
Great read
Adults because of language . Alexa and Egan are awesome partners, looking for the mean Russian mob that is responsible for her friend's death. That's true friends! Alexa knew from start in her heart, but confirmed in the end, you'll have to read to find out the way!
Adults because of language . Alexa and Egan are awesome partners, looking for the mean Russian mob that is responsible for her friend's death. That's true friends! Alexa knew from start in her heart, but confirmed in the end, you'll have to read to find out the way!
September 17, 2017
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel.
From beginning to end this book had me , i didn't want to put it down!!
Looking forward to the next one! I love a good mystery/thriller!!
From beginning to end this book had me , i didn't want to put it down!!
Looking forward to the next one! I love a good mystery/thriller!!
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