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Detective Quaid #1
Murder, Madness & Love
After a gritty detective becomes involved with a beautiful widow suspected of murder, slander and obsession obstruct his quest for justice.
426 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 6, 2008
248 people are currently reading
1620 people want to read
About the author
Yolanda Renee
19 books105 followersAt one time Alaska called to me and I answered. I learned to sleep under the midnight sun, survive in below zero temperatures, and hike the Mountain Ranges. I've traveled from Prudhoe Bay to Valdez, and the memories are some of my most valued. The wonders, mysteries, and incredible beauty that is Alaska has never left me and thus now influence my writing.
Despite my adventurous spirit, I achieved my educational goals, married, and I have two wonderful sons. Writing is now my focus, my newest adventure!
Despite my adventurous spirit, I achieved my educational goals, married, and I have two wonderful sons. Writing is now my focus, my newest adventure!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
January 14, 2018
Read all my reviews on http://urlphantomhive.booklikes.com
They suspected her of being a black widow, killing her husband in a car crash. Now she claims she is being stalked.
I'm not quite sure about Murder, Madness and Love, even though it provided everything that was advertised in the title. While it had me guessing for quite some time I still felt like something was missing. But maybe it was just that I feel like detective stories are not really what I want to be reading right now.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
They suspected her of being a black widow, killing her husband in a car crash. Now she claims she is being stalked.
I'm not quite sure about Murder, Madness and Love, even though it provided everything that was advertised in the title. While it had me guessing for quite some time I still felt like something was missing. But maybe it was just that I feel like detective stories are not really what I want to be reading right now.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
November 10, 2016
Murder most foul and the horror of being stalked are wrapped around a love story made almost impossible by the circumstances.
The question: Is Sarah the Black Widow, the woman who killed her husband and maybe her friends, or is she the victim? You think you know, and then you don't, not until the very end of the story.
This first book in the Steven Quaid series provides one tense and horrifying moment after the other. Even if you think you understand who the killer is on one page, you're unsure on the next. So, of course, you must turn that page.
The question: Is Sarah the Black Widow, the woman who killed her husband and maybe her friends, or is she the victim? You think you know, and then you don't, not until the very end of the story.
This first book in the Steven Quaid series provides one tense and horrifying moment after the other. Even if you think you understand who the killer is on one page, you're unsure on the next. So, of course, you must turn that page.
March 28, 2017
3.5 stars
Murder, Madness, and Love deliver just what the title promises. We have murders, a lot of them. We have some young women who are murdered by a mysterious stalker who signs every murder with a red valentine sent to Sarah, a young woman beautiful and rich, that has a stalker with a passion and that may or may not have killed her husband. And we have Michael's murder. Michael was Sarah's husband and his murder is older than the other, but it seems that all the new murders are in one way or another linked with Michael's death.
And we have madness. A lot of it, too! Because we have this murderer/stalker that really is insane and that loves theatrics a lot. Or maybe not... there is no stalker, just a crazy woman, a black widow in search of a new prey.
And we have also love. Because this book is a thriller, yes, but it also a romance. Detective Quaid thinks Sarah guilty even before he met her. He thinks she's just a black widow and he thinks she's dangerous. But then he meets her. And he likes her... a lot! It does not love at first sight because she's cold, she's distant and he thinks she's guilty of all the murders. But he can't stop the feeling. And neither can she. So we read about their love and their relationship who evolves while we are reading and while all the murders and the threats took place.
But it's not an easy love story: he's a police detective and she's a victim/suspect. And there are other people around them (mostly around her, there is even a former lover who tries to conquer her again). And nothing is as it seems.
The plot twists are really good and the author really did a good job with the suspense and the solution
It's not the best book ever, but it's a good reading.
Murder, Madness, and Love deliver just what the title promises. We have murders, a lot of them. We have some young women who are murdered by a mysterious stalker who signs every murder with a red valentine sent to Sarah, a young woman beautiful and rich, that has a stalker with a passion and that may or may not have killed her husband. And we have Michael's murder. Michael was Sarah's husband and his murder is older than the other, but it seems that all the new murders are in one way or another linked with Michael's death.
And we have madness. A lot of it, too! Because we have this murderer/stalker that really is insane and that loves theatrics a lot. Or maybe not... there is no stalker, just a crazy woman, a black widow in search of a new prey.
And we have also love. Because this book is a thriller, yes, but it also a romance. Detective Quaid thinks Sarah guilty even before he met her. He thinks she's just a black widow and he thinks she's dangerous. But then he meets her. And he likes her... a lot! It does not love at first sight because she's cold, she's distant and he thinks she's guilty of all the murders. But he can't stop the feeling. And neither can she. So we read about their love and their relationship who evolves while we are reading and while all the murders and the threats took place.
But it's not an easy love story: he's a police detective and she's a victim/suspect. And there are other people around them (mostly around her, there is even a former lover who tries to conquer her again). And nothing is as it seems.
The plot twists are really good and the author really did a good job with the suspense and the solution
It's not the best book ever, but it's a good reading.
October 11, 2016
Oh. My. God. This book was MADDENING! What started out promising turned to a complete mess to the point I actually laughed out loud at places where there should have been the most tension.
I'll leave my review from when I had only read about 8 or 9 chapters below this one, since I stand by what I said. However, the book only got worse. So much I could say, so instead of rambling, I'll try to stick to bullet points.
-Sarah got worse, becoming more and more a fragile damsel-in-distress as the book goes on. The author also inexplicably lost that characters voice during key times of the plot.
-Within a chapter, Steven goes from thinking ignorant, awful things about her, to being madly in love, literally ready to say "I do," even though the only "conversations" he ever had with her were short, terse lines of questioning about the murders, with implied accusations against her. This character did a total 180 (common theme,) going from a hard a*s cop, to poetic, lovesick fool in a matter of pages.
-At this point in the book, it turns from mystery into a cringeworthy, cheesy romance where he can't live without his "angel," the "essence" of his being, and she randomly loved him back too, her strong, brave "warrior." I was seriously embarrassed for the characters
-The heroine did so many stupid things to put herself at greater risk, I was secretly hoping she'd die. I think the author thought she was making her seem brave, or loyal to a fault to her friends, but she ran off too many times, and withheld too much info to be anything but a fool
-To be fair, it wasn't just her, even after numerous times of the stalker fooling them all, and showing he could get to her, they still kept leaving her without decent protection, and were under the delusion that keeping her away from town, in an isolated setting, during winter in Alaska, where blizzards could make escape and/or rescue virtually Impossible, was a GREAT idea. Also, apparently, the security detail didn't even bother with guns until like the sixth time something happened??? "Now everyone had a gun, even Eddie." Wow, so it's just now occurring to you that may be a good idea??
-So many instances of poor security detail, and decision-making it was exasperating. Sarah remembers crucial information that would point to the real murderer, but instead of calling Steven right away, she waits a day until he decides to show up to the cabin to tell him??? Don't get me started on letting her go into the church, with only ONE security guy, sitting OUTSIDE the church, even after he stalker took down MULTIPLE security people in the past and they KNEW he was still out there, and KNEW they were coming upon a key date where he was likely to attack.
-Hard to follow at times, whether they were in Seattle or Alaska. They went back and forth so much, it wasn't always clear who was where.
Honestly, I could get very specific with callouts, but that would take too long. Suffice it to say, there were too many times I found myself yelling "WHAT?! That makes no sense!!! Why would you do/not do that?"
If you don't like cheesy, insta-love romance interspersed with your mystery,
foolish Mary Sue heroines, poor decision making from characters who should know better, a mystery plot that focuses less on detecting and more on keeping princess safe, and a consistent plot, with a credible build-up to the climax, then skip this book.
Review after 9 chapters:
The book started out promising, but I don't know if I can finish this, the main characters are awful. Sarah is a fragile princess who cries every other page and lets everyone around her call the shots. She's supposed to come off as oh-so-brave, but she just comes across as silly, always getting overly emotional and running away. She never asserts herself and just acts like some misunderstood gentle soul. It's also driving me nuts how every man fawns all over her, declaring her the most perfect being on the planet, even though the writer gives her no other personality than that of the helpless, fragile little girl who needs to be protected from the big, bad world.
Steven is a first-class a**hole who is the lousiest Detective I've read in book form. Seriously, does this guy ever believe in actually looking for evidence or is hearsay and gossip the only way he solves cases? His reaction and response to her was way out of line and made him irredeemable as the hero in my eyes, especially one who apparently is going to be the love interest. As a detective, I understand he should be cynical and wary of her based on what he's heard, but his characterization of her based on how she looked (which he stereotyped) was vicious, vindictive, and completely d*ckish. The worst part was that she kept putting up with his shots at her.
Beyond this, the story does not always make sense or flow very well. The characters reactions and emotions towards each other take random 180s at any moment, and it is very unclear whether many of them like or hate Sarah, while she seems completely oblivious.
Also, the plot seems to becoming more of a fight for Sarah's attention than an actual mystery with actual clues dropped throughout. Don't care about her gentleman suitors, just get on with the story.
I'll leave my review from when I had only read about 8 or 9 chapters below this one, since I stand by what I said. However, the book only got worse. So much I could say, so instead of rambling, I'll try to stick to bullet points.
-Sarah got worse, becoming more and more a fragile damsel-in-distress as the book goes on. The author also inexplicably lost that characters voice during key times of the plot.
-Within a chapter, Steven goes from thinking ignorant, awful things about her, to being madly in love, literally ready to say "I do," even though the only "conversations" he ever had with her were short, terse lines of questioning about the murders, with implied accusations against her. This character did a total 180 (common theme,) going from a hard a*s cop, to poetic, lovesick fool in a matter of pages.
-At this point in the book, it turns from mystery into a cringeworthy, cheesy romance where he can't live without his "angel," the "essence" of his being, and she randomly loved him back too, her strong, brave "warrior." I was seriously embarrassed for the characters
-The heroine did so many stupid things to put herself at greater risk, I was secretly hoping she'd die. I think the author thought she was making her seem brave, or loyal to a fault to her friends, but she ran off too many times, and withheld too much info to be anything but a fool
-To be fair, it wasn't just her, even after numerous times of the stalker fooling them all, and showing he could get to her, they still kept leaving her without decent protection, and were under the delusion that keeping her away from town, in an isolated setting, during winter in Alaska, where blizzards could make escape and/or rescue virtually Impossible, was a GREAT idea. Also, apparently, the security detail didn't even bother with guns until like the sixth time something happened??? "Now everyone had a gun, even Eddie." Wow, so it's just now occurring to you that may be a good idea??
-So many instances of poor security detail, and decision-making it was exasperating. Sarah remembers crucial information that would point to the real murderer, but instead of calling Steven right away, she waits a day until he decides to show up to the cabin to tell him??? Don't get me started on letting her go into the church, with only ONE security guy, sitting OUTSIDE the church, even after he stalker took down MULTIPLE security people in the past and they KNEW he was still out there, and KNEW they were coming upon a key date where he was likely to attack.
-Hard to follow at times, whether they were in Seattle or Alaska. They went back and forth so much, it wasn't always clear who was where.
Honestly, I could get very specific with callouts, but that would take too long. Suffice it to say, there were too many times I found myself yelling "WHAT?! That makes no sense!!! Why would you do/not do that?"
If you don't like cheesy, insta-love romance interspersed with your mystery,
foolish Mary Sue heroines, poor decision making from characters who should know better, a mystery plot that focuses less on detecting and more on keeping princess safe, and a consistent plot, with a credible build-up to the climax, then skip this book.
Review after 9 chapters:
The book started out promising, but I don't know if I can finish this, the main characters are awful. Sarah is a fragile princess who cries every other page and lets everyone around her call the shots. She's supposed to come off as oh-so-brave, but she just comes across as silly, always getting overly emotional and running away. She never asserts herself and just acts like some misunderstood gentle soul. It's also driving me nuts how every man fawns all over her, declaring her the most perfect being on the planet, even though the writer gives her no other personality than that of the helpless, fragile little girl who needs to be protected from the big, bad world.
Steven is a first-class a**hole who is the lousiest Detective I've read in book form. Seriously, does this guy ever believe in actually looking for evidence or is hearsay and gossip the only way he solves cases? His reaction and response to her was way out of line and made him irredeemable as the hero in my eyes, especially one who apparently is going to be the love interest. As a detective, I understand he should be cynical and wary of her based on what he's heard, but his characterization of her based on how she looked (which he stereotyped) was vicious, vindictive, and completely d*ckish. The worst part was that she kept putting up with his shots at her.
Beyond this, the story does not always make sense or flow very well. The characters reactions and emotions towards each other take random 180s at any moment, and it is very unclear whether many of them like or hate Sarah, while she seems completely oblivious.
Also, the plot seems to becoming more of a fight for Sarah's attention than an actual mystery with actual clues dropped throughout. Don't care about her gentleman suitors, just get on with the story.
September 27, 2013
Thank you kindly to Curiosity Quills for offering me this book for review.
Wealthy Businessman Dies in Car Crash … BLACK WIDOW SUSPECTED!
To escape headlines such as the above, Sarah Palmer moves back to her home, Alaska, to grieve and to carry on her late husbands work. It seems as if there is no escape however as she starts to receive strange phone calls and cards in the post. Meanwhile, Steven Quaid is investigating the murders of local women...all of whom bear a resemblance to Sarah.
For a start I can tell you that this book does exactly what it says on the cover. You will find Murder, Madness AND love within its pages, wrapped up in a neat little mystery package. As a debut novel I thought it was terrific - especially with the characterisation and the way Yolanda Renee links everything together without ever giving so much away that it will be obvious whats going on..
Sarah was a lovely character, still haunted by the death of her husband, and facing prejudice initially from Steven, who in a rush to judgement is none too kind, she is a strong and intriguing protagonist. The mystery element is strong and compelling and the writing style intelligent yet easily flowing.
When I look at the crime and mystery genre over all, I would call this above average but not yet at the top of the pile...there is potential here though for Yolanda Renee to head on upwards. It wasnt one of those debut novels where you felt like the author had already been writing for a lifetime, but it was definitely one where you knew there were better things to come.
Overall extremely enjoyable, and if you are a fan of this kind of tale you will probably find this a great read.
Happy Reading Folks!
Wealthy Businessman Dies in Car Crash … BLACK WIDOW SUSPECTED!
To escape headlines such as the above, Sarah Palmer moves back to her home, Alaska, to grieve and to carry on her late husbands work. It seems as if there is no escape however as she starts to receive strange phone calls and cards in the post. Meanwhile, Steven Quaid is investigating the murders of local women...all of whom bear a resemblance to Sarah.
For a start I can tell you that this book does exactly what it says on the cover. You will find Murder, Madness AND love within its pages, wrapped up in a neat little mystery package. As a debut novel I thought it was terrific - especially with the characterisation and the way Yolanda Renee links everything together without ever giving so much away that it will be obvious whats going on..
Sarah was a lovely character, still haunted by the death of her husband, and facing prejudice initially from Steven, who in a rush to judgement is none too kind, she is a strong and intriguing protagonist. The mystery element is strong and compelling and the writing style intelligent yet easily flowing.
When I look at the crime and mystery genre over all, I would call this above average but not yet at the top of the pile...there is potential here though for Yolanda Renee to head on upwards. It wasnt one of those debut novels where you felt like the author had already been writing for a lifetime, but it was definitely one where you knew there were better things to come.
Overall extremely enjoyable, and if you are a fan of this kind of tale you will probably find this a great read.
Happy Reading Folks!
March 19, 2016
I just finished reading book three in this series, and happened to notice the review I'd written for the first book wasn't here on Goodreads. Dunno why; it's still on Amazon. At any rate, I did a quick copy-and-paste to bring the original review for this book back. THEN I'll think about how to tell you about how much I loved the THIRD book in this series...
***************
Is the beautiful Sarah Palmer an innocent victim, or did she actually murder the husband she claims to grieve? Is she the clever and deceptive Black Widow many believe her to be, or is someone working overtime to not only frame her for her husband's death, but for a growing number of other gruesome murders, as well? From the first time he sees her, the police detective investigating the murders is deeply attracted to her, and the more he works with her, the stronger the attraction becomes... and it seems to be reciprocated. Is it love... or has he fallen under a Black Widow's dangerous spell?
Bottom line? I loved this book.
***************
Is the beautiful Sarah Palmer an innocent victim, or did she actually murder the husband she claims to grieve? Is she the clever and deceptive Black Widow many believe her to be, or is someone working overtime to not only frame her for her husband's death, but for a growing number of other gruesome murders, as well? From the first time he sees her, the police detective investigating the murders is deeply attracted to her, and the more he works with her, the stronger the attraction becomes... and it seems to be reciprocated. Is it love... or has he fallen under a Black Widow's dangerous spell?
Bottom line? I loved this book.
September 25, 2016
I really did not like this book. At the beginning, it seemed interesting, and I thought it would be. However, as I got farther into it, I started thinking, "Why is almost every male character in this book so enchanted with Sarah?" I think pretty much the only one who wasn't was her assistant, Jackson, and I was left with the impression that he was supposed to be gay. From John, to Eddie, to Steven, to Gerry, to Scott, to poor, deceased Michael...I just didn't get it. Sure, she was beautiful, but there was nothing in the author's description of her that stood out to me as remarkable. In fact, she just seemed petulant and annoying to me. Why did she keep running off to be alone, without telling anyone, when all that did was put her in danger, and thus, put everyone else who then had to go off looking for her in danger too? There were some interesting twists and turns in the plot, but I just couldn't get past this part. Usually, when I read one book in a series, I really want to continue until I've finished the entire series. Not so with this one.
March 8, 2017
I couldn't finish this. I made it about 38% and decided I didn't care what happened and didn't want to waste any more of my life on it. Quite frankly, I'm surprised I hung in as long as I did. The story was no longer progressing, it became only about how wonderful Sarah is and how every man alive loves her. People are being murdered, but who cares when you can stare into the beautiful green eyes of a snow angel?!?! The characters were all just awful, there were a lot of editing mistakes, and the plot completely disappeared long before I stopped reading. Highly recommend passing on this.
September 17, 2013
The novel starts with a murder of a beautiful woman in the snowy streets of Anchorage, the same night Steven Quaid and Sarah Palmer first spot each other across the distance. In a rare light moment, in an attempt to "vanquish the blackness of winter to another time", Sarah has rushed into the fresh snow to make snow angels. Despite his initial annoyance at a woman alone on the streets at midnight, Steven henceforth regards Sarah as his "snow angel".
The chase is on to find the murderer of the first victim, Debra, and it continues relentlessly as other women die. Who is committing these murders? Steven knows they are irrevocably linked to the death of Michael Palmer and his 'black' widow, Sarah Palmer. Each of the women's murder scenes is accompanied by a note - From Your Dead Valentine. The detectives know the notes are aimed at Sarah Palmer. Each of the dead women look just like her.
The murderer leads the investigative team on a merry chase, with many red herrings along the way. The murders are occurring on the 14th of each month, so the rush is on to track down the murderer before February 14th, which is calculated as the date Sarah Palmer will die -- her wedding anniversary with Michael Palmer.
Sarah Palmer is in a predicament right from the start. She is being stalked by a murderer with a penchant for knifing victims and scaring her half to death with heavy-breathing phone calls and night visits to her bedroom, yet the press and some of the police hired to protect her believe she is the murderer of Michael Palmer. As Detective Terry O'Conner says: "...while the case has gone cold, secrets never stay secrets forever." "Black widows devour husbands and Terry feared she would strike again."
Anchorage is indeed in for "another bloody winter" as bodies are found and the detectives always seem to be a step behind. Even Steven "Hawk" Quaid is flummoxed at the identity of the murderer once he convinces himself that Sarah is innocent and he means to make her his wife when the mysteries are solved.
I especially love novels where the settings are a character as they're so well wrought, but Yolanda pours her passion into her characters not her settings. The story is character driven from go to woah. I think the novel would have been much richer with more attention to detail -- Anchorage, Seattle, a Cliff House, Idaho -- so many amazing settings.
Another minus was that at times the characters didn't react as real-life people would react in similar situations, and the dialogue didn't ring true all the time -- but there is a lot of dialogue between characters, so Yolanda can be forgiven a few blips.
Overall, a great debut novel. The best thing about this murder mystery is that I never worked out 'whodunnit'. If you read it, you'll know why. I can't wait for more.
Yolanda Renee is an author to watch.
The chase is on to find the murderer of the first victim, Debra, and it continues relentlessly as other women die. Who is committing these murders? Steven knows they are irrevocably linked to the death of Michael Palmer and his 'black' widow, Sarah Palmer. Each of the women's murder scenes is accompanied by a note - From Your Dead Valentine. The detectives know the notes are aimed at Sarah Palmer. Each of the dead women look just like her.
The murderer leads the investigative team on a merry chase, with many red herrings along the way. The murders are occurring on the 14th of each month, so the rush is on to track down the murderer before February 14th, which is calculated as the date Sarah Palmer will die -- her wedding anniversary with Michael Palmer.
Sarah Palmer is in a predicament right from the start. She is being stalked by a murderer with a penchant for knifing victims and scaring her half to death with heavy-breathing phone calls and night visits to her bedroom, yet the press and some of the police hired to protect her believe she is the murderer of Michael Palmer. As Detective Terry O'Conner says: "...while the case has gone cold, secrets never stay secrets forever." "Black widows devour husbands and Terry feared she would strike again."
Anchorage is indeed in for "another bloody winter" as bodies are found and the detectives always seem to be a step behind. Even Steven "Hawk" Quaid is flummoxed at the identity of the murderer once he convinces himself that Sarah is innocent and he means to make her his wife when the mysteries are solved.
I especially love novels where the settings are a character as they're so well wrought, but Yolanda pours her passion into her characters not her settings. The story is character driven from go to woah. I think the novel would have been much richer with more attention to detail -- Anchorage, Seattle, a Cliff House, Idaho -- so many amazing settings.
Another minus was that at times the characters didn't react as real-life people would react in similar situations, and the dialogue didn't ring true all the time -- but there is a lot of dialogue between characters, so Yolanda can be forgiven a few blips.
Overall, a great debut novel. The best thing about this murder mystery is that I never worked out 'whodunnit'. If you read it, you'll know why. I can't wait for more.
Yolanda Renee is an author to watch.
September 23, 2013
Here's the basic premise: beautiful and wealthy Sarah Palmer has been tagged a "Black Widow" by the press and some cops, under suspicion of having murdered her extremely well-to-do husband, Michael, in Seattle. Seeking peace, Sarah returns to her native Alaska, intending to go about doing the good work of setting up her husband's foundation so as to honor him, and in adjusting to her "new normal" of loss.
Here's the hitch: when she gets back home, Sarah receives some rather creepy valentines, but the heart-shaped notes aren't love-tokens, by any stretch. In fact, they're clues and connections to the murders of several blonde-haired and green-eyed women. And guess who else is blonde and green-eyed? If you guessed Sarah, then ding-ding-ding!
Ace police detective Steven Quaid is determined to catch this Alaskan killer. He's equally determined to hate poor Sarah's guts, based on the speculation of his pal Terry from the Seattle police force, who's just bent on pegging Michael Palmer's death on his "Black Widow."
SOME MILD SPOILERS FOLLOW
In fact, Steve's so dead set against Sarah at the start that he blindly attacks her, as Sarah rightly notes, without any concrete evidence at all. I found his prejudiced attitude and, frankly, unprofessional behavior and language toward her off-putting, so by the time he began to look at Sarah's history with the clear, analytical cop-brain for which he's famed, I wasn't too keen on relaxing my dislike of him. But the loving care he showed Sarah eventually turned me around.
I liked the character of Sarah very much, in part because I have this thing about rooting for the underdog in any given situation. But mainly, Sarah comes off as an elegant woman who's doing her best to keep herself together and do good work while dealing with heaps of grief. At times, I worried that she couldn't possibly survive the next big thing to hit her, but danged if she didn't. Every time. And girlfriend gets loads of abuse heaped upon her. Like, a lot, poor gal. Still, there's this thread of steel running along her spine, for which I have to say kudos. I admire Sarah for maintaining her graciousness, of both spirit and mind, and for her sheer grit and determination to bloody well survive. You go, gurl!
Renée weaves a crafty tale, so rich in the Alaskan landscape and rhythms that at times I got lulled into thinking this was a delightfully "cozy" mystery. Only then some brutal murder would flash before my eyes and I'd be all like, "Whoa!" I feel like, beneath the charming world Sarah was desperately trying to recreate, there was this Dean Koontzian edge of crazy that totally kept me on the edge of my seat. I recommend Murder, Madness, & Love to those who enjoy a layered mystery which is warmed by a lovely romance and spiced with a bit of the truly bizarre.
Here's the hitch: when she gets back home, Sarah receives some rather creepy valentines, but the heart-shaped notes aren't love-tokens, by any stretch. In fact, they're clues and connections to the murders of several blonde-haired and green-eyed women. And guess who else is blonde and green-eyed? If you guessed Sarah, then ding-ding-ding!
Ace police detective Steven Quaid is determined to catch this Alaskan killer. He's equally determined to hate poor Sarah's guts, based on the speculation of his pal Terry from the Seattle police force, who's just bent on pegging Michael Palmer's death on his "Black Widow."
SOME MILD SPOILERS FOLLOW
In fact, Steve's so dead set against Sarah at the start that he blindly attacks her, as Sarah rightly notes, without any concrete evidence at all. I found his prejudiced attitude and, frankly, unprofessional behavior and language toward her off-putting, so by the time he began to look at Sarah's history with the clear, analytical cop-brain for which he's famed, I wasn't too keen on relaxing my dislike of him. But the loving care he showed Sarah eventually turned me around.
I liked the character of Sarah very much, in part because I have this thing about rooting for the underdog in any given situation. But mainly, Sarah comes off as an elegant woman who's doing her best to keep herself together and do good work while dealing with heaps of grief. At times, I worried that she couldn't possibly survive the next big thing to hit her, but danged if she didn't. Every time. And girlfriend gets loads of abuse heaped upon her. Like, a lot, poor gal. Still, there's this thread of steel running along her spine, for which I have to say kudos. I admire Sarah for maintaining her graciousness, of both spirit and mind, and for her sheer grit and determination to bloody well survive. You go, gurl!
Renée weaves a crafty tale, so rich in the Alaskan landscape and rhythms that at times I got lulled into thinking this was a delightfully "cozy" mystery. Only then some brutal murder would flash before my eyes and I'd be all like, "Whoa!" I feel like, beneath the charming world Sarah was desperately trying to recreate, there was this Dean Koontzian edge of crazy that totally kept me on the edge of my seat. I recommend Murder, Madness, & Love to those who enjoy a layered mystery which is warmed by a lovely romance and spiced with a bit of the truly bizarre.
February 13, 2017
This one was really good! At the start, you really wanted to like the main character, but the facts appeared to be stacked against her! There were so many twists and turns, that no sooner had you clarified your missions and thoughts of the main character and the other characters, everything was different! But the twists and changes did not appear contrived and unnatural. It's all a very involved and complicated story, and not only did the author keep the reader gassing, but the author kept the reader interested and anxious and ready to hear the end – even when the end was still three hours away. But all three of those hours worth it and I loved the book :-)
And it's the first of, so far, three with the same detective. I'm looking forward to more!
And it's the first of, so far, three with the same detective. I'm looking forward to more!
November 22, 2016
MURDER, MADNESS & LOVE is like a jigsaw puzzle with a thousand tiny pieces and only half the box cover to show how the picture is supposed to look. Just when you put one piece in, the picture takes on a whole new look different from what you first thought it would be.
Narrator Piper Goodeve does an excellent job giving unique voices to each of the characters. Her cadence and accents add depth to the story. Her dramatic range and pacing are perfect as she interrupts the varying emotions of the characters. She gives a clear and understandable reading.
This story moves at a quick pace but keeps your attention from beginning to end. The multiple twists and turns, along with a few surprises, keeps the suspense high as the story unfolds.
Author Yolanda Renée has skillfully developed complex characters that make it had to determine their innocence, especially the characters you quickly become fond of. The complexity of the characters isn’t such that they are hard to follow, but rather feature shadows of possible secrets and/or suspected hidden agendas giving them great depth.
The Alaskan setting comes alive through the author’s vivid descriptions and rich details. The crisp chill of the setting adds another layer to the story.
This thriller will have you on the edge of your seat until the very end. A good blend of mystery, suspense, action, touch of romance, and intrigue makes MURDER, MADNESS & LOVE an exhilarating start to what promises to be a fascinating series.
FTC Full Disclosure – A copy of this audio book was sent to me by the publisher. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review. The thoughts are completely my own and given honestly and freely.
Narrator Piper Goodeve does an excellent job giving unique voices to each of the characters. Her cadence and accents add depth to the story. Her dramatic range and pacing are perfect as she interrupts the varying emotions of the characters. She gives a clear and understandable reading.
This story moves at a quick pace but keeps your attention from beginning to end. The multiple twists and turns, along with a few surprises, keeps the suspense high as the story unfolds.
Author Yolanda Renée has skillfully developed complex characters that make it had to determine their innocence, especially the characters you quickly become fond of. The complexity of the characters isn’t such that they are hard to follow, but rather feature shadows of possible secrets and/or suspected hidden agendas giving them great depth.
The Alaskan setting comes alive through the author’s vivid descriptions and rich details. The crisp chill of the setting adds another layer to the story.
This thriller will have you on the edge of your seat until the very end. A good blend of mystery, suspense, action, touch of romance, and intrigue makes MURDER, MADNESS & LOVE an exhilarating start to what promises to be a fascinating series.
FTC Full Disclosure – A copy of this audio book was sent to me by the publisher. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review. The thoughts are completely my own and given honestly and freely.
July 19, 2011
Intense may be an understatement for this book. I was gripping the edges of my reader in white-knuckled anticipation by the end of the first chapter. There were just so many questions from the very beginning that I raced through the pages to find the answers.
Although I may pride myself on picking up on hints when it comes to most mysteries, I was like a mouse in a maze when it came to this plot. Just as I think I turn a revealing corner to the plot, another wall hits me square in the face and I find myself flat on my butt again, shaking my head in bewilderment at yet another dead end.
I realize Sarah is the one being hounded, but I could not help feeling that I was being played with as a reader. I know how the saying goes, “Fool me twice, shame on me,” but I was fooled so many times I started to feel like the village idiot. I would say to put me in the corner with a dunce hat, but I honestly have to chalk-up this frustrating feeling to fine-planned creative writing. Definitely, a well plotted story.
Death, stalking, heart-break, fear, more death – just how much is Sarah supposed to take? I wasn’t even sure how much more I could take. Call me “dizzy” because that roller coaster ride had me up and down more times than I can count. Was it worth the woozy spells, you ask? Of course!
How often do you get to read a mystery that has at least one scene steamy enough to melt a little snow off that Alaska plane, an original plot, and a scheme so perplexing that I defy anyone to figure out who done it. I can only wonder what could possibly happen in the coming sequels. What else could possibly go wrong?
Although I may pride myself on picking up on hints when it comes to most mysteries, I was like a mouse in a maze when it came to this plot. Just as I think I turn a revealing corner to the plot, another wall hits me square in the face and I find myself flat on my butt again, shaking my head in bewilderment at yet another dead end.
I realize Sarah is the one being hounded, but I could not help feeling that I was being played with as a reader. I know how the saying goes, “Fool me twice, shame on me,” but I was fooled so many times I started to feel like the village idiot. I would say to put me in the corner with a dunce hat, but I honestly have to chalk-up this frustrating feeling to fine-planned creative writing. Definitely, a well plotted story.
Death, stalking, heart-break, fear, more death – just how much is Sarah supposed to take? I wasn’t even sure how much more I could take. Call me “dizzy” because that roller coaster ride had me up and down more times than I can count. Was it worth the woozy spells, you ask? Of course!
How often do you get to read a mystery that has at least one scene steamy enough to melt a little snow off that Alaska plane, an original plot, and a scheme so perplexing that I defy anyone to figure out who done it. I can only wonder what could possibly happen in the coming sequels. What else could possibly go wrong?
April 26, 2016
An unexplainable, deplorable death opens, Murder, Madness and Love, the first book of a series by Yolanda Renèe. The scene in itself, an alley, leading to a car park, outside of a noble bar where the woman worked, is detestable, but it captivated my attention, throwing me into Renèe well-crafted book like a fireball.
Sarah Palmer, labeled as The Black Widow, due to the circumstances behind her husband’s death becomes the first suspect on Quaid’s list after he talks with his colleague and friend, Terry O’ Conner. However, Sarah Palmer and Steven Quaid are drawn to each other; loving her changes his viewpoint.
The book is based on locations in Alaska and Renee’s descriptive scenes give us a vivid picture of the cold. Renèe shows the loveliness and the beauty of the forty-ninth state and displays the dangers and the attitudes of the people who live within its borders. Packed with suspense, each chapter brings you deeper into her Alaskan world.
Her caring approach to the original inhabitants calling them by their tribal name impressed me. I had started reading book three of her series and had the hunger to know what happened before book three as I read her snippets in The A to Z Blog Challenge where she is also a participant. I then decided to put down the third book and read Murder, Madness and Love.
Renèe has written a beautiful Thriller filled with tension and curiosity that will keep you turning the pages.
I look forward to reading book two.
Shalom Aleichem,
Pat Garcia
Sarah Palmer, labeled as The Black Widow, due to the circumstances behind her husband’s death becomes the first suspect on Quaid’s list after he talks with his colleague and friend, Terry O’ Conner. However, Sarah Palmer and Steven Quaid are drawn to each other; loving her changes his viewpoint.
The book is based on locations in Alaska and Renee’s descriptive scenes give us a vivid picture of the cold. Renèe shows the loveliness and the beauty of the forty-ninth state and displays the dangers and the attitudes of the people who live within its borders. Packed with suspense, each chapter brings you deeper into her Alaskan world.
Her caring approach to the original inhabitants calling them by their tribal name impressed me. I had started reading book three of her series and had the hunger to know what happened before book three as I read her snippets in The A to Z Blog Challenge where she is also a participant. I then decided to put down the third book and read Murder, Madness and Love.
Renèe has written a beautiful Thriller filled with tension and curiosity that will keep you turning the pages.
I look forward to reading book two.
Shalom Aleichem,
Pat Garcia
February 5, 2017
Murder, Madness and Love was one strange twist after another. Just when you thought you had it figured out another twist comes.
Sarah was considered a black widow cause everyone thought she killed her husband, but then she gets wrapped in the twisted games of a serial killer who kills women on the 14th of every month and sends her a nasty little valentine.
She has some great friends who believe in her innocence and will do anything to protect her from the psycho. Detective Steven Quaid fell in love at first site but when he realized she was the black widow, he vowed to take her down, then changes his view as he was still falling for her and decided to investigate her husband's death while trying to catch a serial killer. Protecting Sarah was his main goal, but it's proving to be pretty hard.
So I liked this story but I didn't love it, I never fully connected with Sarah although she is a tough character. I found the relationship between her and Steven to just be strange, the man hated because he thought she was a killer and determined to take her down then, he was head over heels in love with her, and she just forgives him for thinking she was a killer...it just doesn't flow with me. Now maybe if it became a build up over a few books in the series, but I don't think I could be so forgiving of someone who called me a killer. I also thought because of all the different twist that it seemed a bit long.
Though with it's flaws it was still an interesting read and I did enjoy it. I am curious to see what will happen with the rest of the series.
Gave it a 3.5 on my blog.
Sarah was considered a black widow cause everyone thought she killed her husband, but then she gets wrapped in the twisted games of a serial killer who kills women on the 14th of every month and sends her a nasty little valentine.
She has some great friends who believe in her innocence and will do anything to protect her from the psycho. Detective Steven Quaid fell in love at first site but when he realized she was the black widow, he vowed to take her down, then changes his view as he was still falling for her and decided to investigate her husband's death while trying to catch a serial killer. Protecting Sarah was his main goal, but it's proving to be pretty hard.
So I liked this story but I didn't love it, I never fully connected with Sarah although she is a tough character. I found the relationship between her and Steven to just be strange, the man hated because he thought she was a killer and determined to take her down then, he was head over heels in love with her, and she just forgives him for thinking she was a killer...it just doesn't flow with me. Now maybe if it became a build up over a few books in the series, but I don't think I could be so forgiving of someone who called me a killer. I also thought because of all the different twist that it seemed a bit long.
Though with it's flaws it was still an interesting read and I did enjoy it. I am curious to see what will happen with the rest of the series.
Gave it a 3.5 on my blog.
August 10, 2016
I was lucky enough to win a copy of this book.
Murder, mystery and crime isn't a genre I often read, so I was looking forward to the change of pace.
The first scene grabs with a violent murder, and although it's a bit confusing since characters and circumstances aren't clear for a bit, the mood of the book is perfectly set.
The characters are well done. Even when sympathy for them rises, there's always a shadow of doubt as to what their intentions might be. The author does a terrific job of keeping the true murderer and reasons behind the crimes hidden, while dribbling out pieces to the puzzle the entire way through. There are many unexpected twists and turns mixed in between high tension situations.
Sometimes the writing felt a bit blunt and jagged, but still it was easy to get lost in the pages. Sarah, the main character, is easy to like and feel for, but then, so are her friends. There's a large cast of characters, giving the mystery lots of layers without ever getting confusing. The romance is very present but doesn't over take the main plot. The uncertainty of the growing relations adds a nice touch to the already unclear mystery surrounding the characters.
Summed up, this is a great read for thriller and crime fans. The plot is layered and filled with tons of twists and turns, and it definitely doesn't have a predictable ending. I read this in one sitting and enjoyed every moment.
Murder, mystery and crime isn't a genre I often read, so I was looking forward to the change of pace.
The first scene grabs with a violent murder, and although it's a bit confusing since characters and circumstances aren't clear for a bit, the mood of the book is perfectly set.
The characters are well done. Even when sympathy for them rises, there's always a shadow of doubt as to what their intentions might be. The author does a terrific job of keeping the true murderer and reasons behind the crimes hidden, while dribbling out pieces to the puzzle the entire way through. There are many unexpected twists and turns mixed in between high tension situations.
Sometimes the writing felt a bit blunt and jagged, but still it was easy to get lost in the pages. Sarah, the main character, is easy to like and feel for, but then, so are her friends. There's a large cast of characters, giving the mystery lots of layers without ever getting confusing. The romance is very present but doesn't over take the main plot. The uncertainty of the growing relations adds a nice touch to the already unclear mystery surrounding the characters.
Summed up, this is a great read for thriller and crime fans. The plot is layered and filled with tons of twists and turns, and it definitely doesn't have a predictable ending. I read this in one sitting and enjoyed every moment.
October 11, 2013
Having been branded a black widow, Sarah Palmer moves to Alaska where she grew up and hopes she can find the peace she's been seeking. Yet the shadow of her husband's death follows her and darkens are murders of women who look similar to her begin to happen. Detective Steven Quaid always trusts his gut. It has never let him down. At first he distrusts Sarah, but then his feelings for her grow and he finds himself caught in her spell. Maybe his gut was wrong this time. Or could he be the black widow's next victim?
A skillfully crafted crime thriller that has you on the edge of your seat through to the end. Just when you think you might have it figured out, the plot twists again and you're left with new questions. It's difficult to trick me and I don't fall easily for red herrings, but I had no idea how this story would turn out. It was wonderful how all the pieces fit together at the end.
Sarah is a strong protagonist. A woman who you can sympathize with and yet get suspicious of at the same time! I particularly liked Steven Quaid. He played it smart even when his emotions were involved. I can't wait to read more with him in Yolanda Renee's next novel.
A skillfully crafted crime thriller that has you on the edge of your seat through to the end. Just when you think you might have it figured out, the plot twists again and you're left with new questions. It's difficult to trick me and I don't fall easily for red herrings, but I had no idea how this story would turn out. It was wonderful how all the pieces fit together at the end.
Sarah is a strong protagonist. A woman who you can sympathize with and yet get suspicious of at the same time! I particularly liked Steven Quaid. He played it smart even when his emotions were involved. I can't wait to read more with him in Yolanda Renee's next novel.
March 10, 2011
I get sucked into well written books. I’m right there with the characters, going through whatever they’re going through, sharing their thoughts and feelings. That’s why I now know what it would be like to spend time in an Alaskan winter and how terrifying it would be to be stalked by a brutal killer who hates me for a reason I don’t understand.
Yolanda Renee has created such rich, multidimensional characters who speak so clearly about who they are that I could not only recognize them if I met them on the street, I’d know what to serve them if they came to my house for dinner.
A word of caution, though. Do not start this book late at night like I did. You won’t get any sleep if you do, either because you can’t put it down or because you just might be afraid to stop reading until the killer is caught. Ms. Renee is as good at introducing tension and writing believably scary scenes as she is at describing the beauty of Alaska.
Yolanda Renee has created such rich, multidimensional characters who speak so clearly about who they are that I could not only recognize them if I met them on the street, I’d know what to serve them if they came to my house for dinner.
A word of caution, though. Do not start this book late at night like I did. You won’t get any sleep if you do, either because you can’t put it down or because you just might be afraid to stop reading until the killer is caught. Ms. Renee is as good at introducing tension and writing believably scary scenes as she is at describing the beauty of Alaska.
January 20, 2014
I was in the mood for a good mystery, and this book delivered! Once I got started, I had trouble putting it down, and found myself walking around the house with my Kindle.
Sarah Palmer recently lost her husband in an accident, and many people blame her, earning her the nickname, Black Widow. Her husband used to send her cards on the 14th of every month, and now, she starts getting the cards again, starting with one from "My Dead Valentine." She also begins getting calls from an unknown number at 2:14am every night. Later, she learns that the cards have corresponded with murders of other women who look like her. Her friends from a private security company and a detective Steven Quaid, protect Sarah and wish to solve the mystery of the murders and what they have to do with Sarah, which also provides opportunity for romantic entanglements.
If you like a good mystery, you should definitely check this out!
Sarah Palmer recently lost her husband in an accident, and many people blame her, earning her the nickname, Black Widow. Her husband used to send her cards on the 14th of every month, and now, she starts getting the cards again, starting with one from "My Dead Valentine." She also begins getting calls from an unknown number at 2:14am every night. Later, she learns that the cards have corresponded with murders of other women who look like her. Her friends from a private security company and a detective Steven Quaid, protect Sarah and wish to solve the mystery of the murders and what they have to do with Sarah, which also provides opportunity for romantic entanglements.
If you like a good mystery, you should definitely check this out!
February 3, 2014
Murder, Madness and Love is an excellent thriller set in the landscape of an Alaskan winter. I loved the Alaskan setting from the start, and was intrigued from the get-go when Det. Steven Quaid sees Sarah Palmer making snow angels in the freshly-fallen snow.
The story takes many twists and turns and I loved that I didn't know for sure if Sarah really was the "black widow" she was accused of being. There were times that I was as suspicious of her as Quaid was.
But regardless of what happened between Sarah and her husband back in Seattle, the deadly Valentine murders she is now faced with in Alaska are terrifying. Renee skillfully builds the suspense and the tension mounts as Quaid tries to discover the killer before Valentine's Day.
I didn't see the ending of the story coming and I loved how Renee brought everything together for a great conclusion.
Steven Quaid is a fantastic character and I look forward to more in this series.
The story takes many twists and turns and I loved that I didn't know for sure if Sarah really was the "black widow" she was accused of being. There were times that I was as suspicious of her as Quaid was.
But regardless of what happened between Sarah and her husband back in Seattle, the deadly Valentine murders she is now faced with in Alaska are terrifying. Renee skillfully builds the suspense and the tension mounts as Quaid tries to discover the killer before Valentine's Day.
I didn't see the ending of the story coming and I loved how Renee brought everything together for a great conclusion.
Steven Quaid is a fantastic character and I look forward to more in this series.
January 8, 2015
Detective Steven Quaid is following the trail of a serial murderer. The only clues seem to point to Sarah Palmer, the recently widowed wife of executive Michael Palmer, who died suddenly in a car accident. Could she be a black widow? If she is, then why is someone stalking her?
The author has done a great job of creating a number of potential and very valid suspects, and ratcheting up the tension. The gruesome murders and terrifying stalking and kidnap scenes lead to an exciting and totally unexpected conclusion.
This is a great debut novel and I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
The author has done a great job of creating a number of potential and very valid suspects, and ratcheting up the tension. The gruesome murders and terrifying stalking and kidnap scenes lead to an exciting and totally unexpected conclusion.
This is a great debut novel and I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
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August 17, 2016Twisted Love
A murder mystery of the highest caliber, Yolande Renee weaves a twisted tale of murder, money, madness, and unrequited love. A well written story with rich descriptions and exceptionally vibrant characters. This story which jumps from the Alaskan wilderness, to the city of Anchorage, and Seattle. A young widow, branded a black widow by the Seattle Police Department after the death of her husband goes home to Alaska only to find herself the recipient of "Valentine's" from a murderer who is killing people she knows. This book seems almost tranquil at times is truly an edge of your seat psychological thriller.
A murder mystery of the highest caliber, Yolande Renee weaves a twisted tale of murder, money, madness, and unrequited love. A well written story with rich descriptions and exceptionally vibrant characters. This story which jumps from the Alaskan wilderness, to the city of Anchorage, and Seattle. A young widow, branded a black widow by the Seattle Police Department after the death of her husband goes home to Alaska only to find herself the recipient of "Valentine's" from a murderer who is killing people she knows. This book seems almost tranquil at times is truly an edge of your seat psychological thriller.
August 18, 2016
Murder, Madness, and Love is a confusing story a d maybe I'm just getting old but I found it hard to follow.
Murder,Madness and Love started out good but to me all the twists and turns messed it up. It's not like the movie where you think the bad guy is dead and then he pops up again. This book just went on and on from crazy plot to crazy plot. I began to think poor Sarah's troubles would never end.
Murder,Madness and Love started out good but to me all the twists and turns messed it up. It's not like the movie where you think the bad guy is dead and then he pops up again. This book just went on and on from crazy plot to crazy plot. I began to think poor Sarah's troubles would never end.
August 31, 2016
This book was a good book. I had to re-read a couple spots and change the he to a she due to a clerical error. Sarah Parker is a beautiful lady to which someone hates and is out to destroy. Murder after murder keep piling up. Is it Sarah that killed her husband or is it someone out to get her. Trouble and attempts on her and her acquaintances lurks at every turn, in every chapter. Great read for sure!
August 18, 2016
A very good mystery novel .It kept me reading for hours.there was nothing that I disliked. It is not often that I
Did not figure out who the murder was till the end. I liked Sarah and Steven together
At the end. It was a very good murder mystery . Thank you very much for good reading. Claire
Did not figure out who the murder was till the end. I liked Sarah and Steven together
At the end. It was a very good murder mystery . Thank you very much for good reading. Claire
August 15, 2016
Kept me on the edge of my seat .
Fast paced. Loved it. The characters were real
I still think that Detective Terry in Seattle should have lost his job. Steven should definitely ked him.
Fast paced. Loved it. The characters were real
I still think that Detective Terry in Seattle should have lost his job. Steven should definitely ked him.
August 28, 2016
Great love story!
Mystery and romance, this book has it all. Her husband's murder was made to look like an accident but still Sara was labeled "The Black Widow". Quade was trying to solve the mystery before the killer got Sara too.
Mystery and romance, this book has it all. Her husband's murder was made to look like an accident but still Sara was labeled "The Black Widow". Quade was trying to solve the mystery before the killer got Sara too.
August 31, 2016
Page turning
Loved this book couldn't put it down.
How the mind hides the hurt just keeps you on your toes doubting what you're thinking and whether the black widow really is innocent.
Looking forward to starting the next in the series.
Loved this book couldn't put it down.
How the mind hides the hurt just keeps you on your toes doubting what you're thinking and whether the black widow really is innocent.
Looking forward to starting the next in the series.
October 29, 2013
Just finished reading it. It's a great book. Would recommend it to others.
August 14, 2016
very good
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