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Under the Moonlight #2
Forever Doomed
It's not wise to wander the cruise ship Forever alone at night. You might not live to see daylight.
Detective Jack Harney agrees to do an old Army buddy a favor. Curt Noble had some personal business to attend to, he didn’t say what. What he did say was he needed someone to temporarily take over his duties as head of security on the struggling cruise ship Forever. Jack hesitates, but he owes Curt his life so agrees. He’s told the worst mischief he can expect to encounter will be the occasional shoplifter, or drunk. Instead, one week into the cruise, a beautiful red head and a member of the crew are ruthlessly murdered. Are the two murders connected? It’s up to Jack to find out. He must find the killer before the ship returns to Tampa’s port, or worse, before another dead body is found. This won't be easy. The ship is old, it's security systems outdated, and clues are few, or so it seems at first
It’s not just a sense of obligation that motivates Jack to agree to Curt's request; Jack moved thousands of miles, started over, and still can't get Amy O'Brian out of his heart or mind. When she shows up on the ship, as part of a large wedding party, Jack must fight to stay focused. To make matters worse, Amy isn't his only distraction; a sexy and mysterious woman has made it her mission to seduce Jack.
As the body count rises, and time slips away, Jack has to ask himself, “Did someone commit the perfect crime?”
Detective Jack Harney agrees to do an old Army buddy a favor. Curt Noble had some personal business to attend to, he didn’t say what. What he did say was he needed someone to temporarily take over his duties as head of security on the struggling cruise ship Forever. Jack hesitates, but he owes Curt his life so agrees. He’s told the worst mischief he can expect to encounter will be the occasional shoplifter, or drunk. Instead, one week into the cruise, a beautiful red head and a member of the crew are ruthlessly murdered. Are the two murders connected? It’s up to Jack to find out. He must find the killer before the ship returns to Tampa’s port, or worse, before another dead body is found. This won't be easy. The ship is old, it's security systems outdated, and clues are few, or so it seems at first
It’s not just a sense of obligation that motivates Jack to agree to Curt's request; Jack moved thousands of miles, started over, and still can't get Amy O'Brian out of his heart or mind. When she shows up on the ship, as part of a large wedding party, Jack must fight to stay focused. To make matters worse, Amy isn't his only distraction; a sexy and mysterious woman has made it her mission to seduce Jack.
As the body count rises, and time slips away, Jack has to ask himself, “Did someone commit the perfect crime?”
- GenresMystery
271 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 1, 2013
19 people are currently reading
433 people want to read
About the author
MaryAnn Kempher
16 books76 followersI get most of my exercise these days by shaking my head. Unknown author.
Boy, can I relate, but I try to focus on what's in front of me, usually cake. Da Dum Dum.
Anyway, I'm obviously an author. I served 20 years in the US Air Force and soon after retirement came up with the idea for my first book--which I promptly discarded. It was about insurance fraud and trust me, they make it very hard to steal their money, so I had to come up with a different idea.
Book one is mostly a romantic comedy with a murder mystery thrown in, and while I think it's pretty good especially for a first book, I discovered I enjoyed writing the mystery of the book the most.
So, books two through eight are mysteries.
All the books have a lot of humor in them.
With the exception of book two, which takes place on board an ill-fated cruise ship, my books are set in Reno NV where I spent my teenage years, or some of them anyway.
Enjoy!
Boy, can I relate, but I try to focus on what's in front of me, usually cake. Da Dum Dum.
Anyway, I'm obviously an author. I served 20 years in the US Air Force and soon after retirement came up with the idea for my first book--which I promptly discarded. It was about insurance fraud and trust me, they make it very hard to steal their money, so I had to come up with a different idea.
Book one is mostly a romantic comedy with a murder mystery thrown in, and while I think it's pretty good especially for a first book, I discovered I enjoyed writing the mystery of the book the most.
So, books two through eight are mysteries.
All the books have a lot of humor in them.
With the exception of book two, which takes place on board an ill-fated cruise ship, my books are set in Reno NV where I spent my teenage years, or some of them anyway.
Enjoy!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
March 1, 2014
Review also on www.jolasbookshelf.wordpress.com
It was a good story although I found it predictable. Not from the start but after some of the clues were presented to the reader I pretty much solved the case ;). I don't know why it took Jack so long! Well, maybe I read to many mystery books and watch too many cop shows ;).
The romance storyline brought to the book refreshing side and it didn't bore me at all. The wedding shenanigans were amusing (the wedding dress) and a nice break from the main plot.
I will have to check out the first book which is somewhat related to this one.
Thanks to MaryAnn Kempher for sending me a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
It was a good story although I found it predictable. Not from the start but after some of the clues were presented to the reader I pretty much solved the case ;). I don't know why it took Jack so long! Well, maybe I read to many mystery books and watch too many cop shows ;).
The romance storyline brought to the book refreshing side and it didn't bore me at all. The wedding shenanigans were amusing (the wedding dress) and a nice break from the main plot.
I will have to check out the first book which is somewhat related to this one.
Thanks to MaryAnn Kempher for sending me a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 25, 2014
I mean no disrespect when I say that this book is a good beach read. Fast, well written and extremely engaging. The characters are well developed and although this is a sequel and I have not read the first this was easy to follow and the characters were easy to engage with.
I especially enjoyed the beginning of this book where the first murder is described from a variety of perspectives and characters point of view. This was something I had not read before and I it really worked to engage the reader. At times there were aspects of this book that reminded me of Agatha Christie even to the fact that there was a reveal at the end although not as in-depth as some of Christie's characters. I have to be honest and say that I had my suspicions about one of the murderers early on in the book although this did not spoilt the read at all. I have to say there is a huge coincident in the book when two of the characters meet up again which I found to be a little hard to believe. Putting this aside this did not spoil the story at all.
This was a good fast read with an engaging story which has left me wanting to read the first in the series now. Will definitely be looking out for more from this author.
I especially enjoyed the beginning of this book where the first murder is described from a variety of perspectives and characters point of view. This was something I had not read before and I it really worked to engage the reader. At times there were aspects of this book that reminded me of Agatha Christie even to the fact that there was a reveal at the end although not as in-depth as some of Christie's characters. I have to be honest and say that I had my suspicions about one of the murderers early on in the book although this did not spoilt the read at all. I have to say there is a huge coincident in the book when two of the characters meet up again which I found to be a little hard to believe. Putting this aside this did not spoil the story at all.
This was a good fast read with an engaging story which has left me wanting to read the first in the series now. Will definitely be looking out for more from this author.
August 12, 2015
WELL, LET ME START OFF BY SAYING THAT I NORMALLY DON'T READ THIS TYPE OF GENRE, BUT AFTER CHECKING IT OUT ON AMAZON AND GOODREADS, I DECIDED TO GIVE IT A SHOT. I AM SOOOO HAPPY THAT I DID. THIS STORY GRABBED ME IN FROM THE FIRST FEW PAGES AND I WAS HOOKED! I FINISHED THIS BOOK IN ABOUT 3 HOURS AND WHEN I WAS FINISHED, I HAD A SERIOUS HANGOVER!
ALL OF THE CHARACTERS WERE WELL DEVELOPED AND THE PLOT WAS ON POINT!! EVERYTHING FLOWED WELL, ESPECIALLY THE PACE OF THE STORY. IT WASN'T BORING AT ALL; LOTS OF SUSPENSE AND IT HAD ME IN A STATE OF PANIC AT SOME POINTS. I FELT LIKE I WAS ONE OF THE CHARACTERS, TRYING TO FIGURE OUT WHO THE KILLER WAS AND SOMETIMES THERE WERE PARTS OF THE STORY THAT JUST SHOCKED ME!! I LOVED THAT MARYANN ALSO INCORPORATED A LITTLE ROMANCE AS WELL. AND TALK ABOUT THAT SEX SCENE! WHOA, HOT STUFF!! THIS BOOK HAD ME LAUGHING OUT LOUD AT TIMES AND I LOVED THAT EACH CHARACTER HAD THEIR OWN STORY. I ESPECIALLY LOVED THE CONNECTION BETWEEN JACK AND AMY; THEY WERE ADORABLE AT TIMES.
OVERALL THIS WAS A GREAT AND SURPRISING READ. I AM DEFINITELY GOING TO CHECK OUT MORE OF MARYANN'S WORK AND HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK.
ALL OF THE CHARACTERS WERE WELL DEVELOPED AND THE PLOT WAS ON POINT!! EVERYTHING FLOWED WELL, ESPECIALLY THE PACE OF THE STORY. IT WASN'T BORING AT ALL; LOTS OF SUSPENSE AND IT HAD ME IN A STATE OF PANIC AT SOME POINTS. I FELT LIKE I WAS ONE OF THE CHARACTERS, TRYING TO FIGURE OUT WHO THE KILLER WAS AND SOMETIMES THERE WERE PARTS OF THE STORY THAT JUST SHOCKED ME!! I LOVED THAT MARYANN ALSO INCORPORATED A LITTLE ROMANCE AS WELL. AND TALK ABOUT THAT SEX SCENE! WHOA, HOT STUFF!! THIS BOOK HAD ME LAUGHING OUT LOUD AT TIMES AND I LOVED THAT EACH CHARACTER HAD THEIR OWN STORY. I ESPECIALLY LOVED THE CONNECTION BETWEEN JACK AND AMY; THEY WERE ADORABLE AT TIMES.
OVERALL THIS WAS A GREAT AND SURPRISING READ. I AM DEFINITELY GOING TO CHECK OUT MORE OF MARYANN'S WORK AND HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK.
March 14, 2014
I couldn't put this book down. the writing style will capture you into the multiple twists and turns and the plot will keep you in this clue like mystery. At first my head was spinning trying to figure out how all the pieces fit but as I got into this book I was captured. So many things going on but yet they were all connected. I am still curious as to why Jack's friend Curt had to leave.
anywhoo we have the bake contest in which the chef Philippe's goods are being attacked, the old ladies eating desserts like there is no tomorrow, the wedding in which Jack's love who left him is there, three murders, diamonds and a cackling witch who is trying to get back together with Scott who is engaged to Katherine. Oh and the stripper who wants more and is attracted to Jack and whom Jack is attracted to as well but she is a suspect. told you alot to put in your head. As Jack is trying to solve the murders, he is impeded left and right. the security camera footage is bad, people holding things from him, and a attraction that can ruin him. He is on the cusp so many times of putting it all together and than whamo another murder, a dessert issue or his ex-Amy comes into play.
Jack is a nice guy. Just confused and in this book we get to see how his mind works and starts to put things together. Amy poor amy really needs to see who she is but my favorite is Scott and his brother Alex those two together are precious. As was Jojo although that one I did not see coming. The stripper Marni is a interesting character and I am glad Joshua is there for her although she should have come forward to Jack earlier because alot of things could have been prevented.
This book is a fast paced, keep you on your toes and have you constantly trying to figure out the murders book that you will not put down to the last page is read. I do wonder what is next for Amy, Jack and Curt.
anywhoo we have the bake contest in which the chef Philippe's goods are being attacked, the old ladies eating desserts like there is no tomorrow, the wedding in which Jack's love who left him is there, three murders, diamonds and a cackling witch who is trying to get back together with Scott who is engaged to Katherine. Oh and the stripper who wants more and is attracted to Jack and whom Jack is attracted to as well but she is a suspect. told you alot to put in your head. As Jack is trying to solve the murders, he is impeded left and right. the security camera footage is bad, people holding things from him, and a attraction that can ruin him. He is on the cusp so many times of putting it all together and than whamo another murder, a dessert issue or his ex-Amy comes into play.
Jack is a nice guy. Just confused and in this book we get to see how his mind works and starts to put things together. Amy poor amy really needs to see who she is but my favorite is Scott and his brother Alex those two together are precious. As was Jojo although that one I did not see coming. The stripper Marni is a interesting character and I am glad Joshua is there for her although she should have come forward to Jack earlier because alot of things could have been prevented.
This book is a fast paced, keep you on your toes and have you constantly trying to figure out the murders book that you will not put down to the last page is read. I do wonder what is next for Amy, Jack and Curt.
March 14, 2014
Jack Harney is a detective who has recently transferred to Tampa Florida. An old army friend has asked him for a huge favor; take his place as head of security on a cruise ship. Jack is hesitant but he owes the man. Don’t worry his friend said
“the worst mischief he could expect to encounter would be the occasional shoplifter or drunk tourist.”, yea right! Murder and a delicious crime spree ensue. Jack knows if he doesn’t have a suspect when the ship returns to Tampa two weeks early he’ll likely lose his detective position.
“Well, let’s just say we’ve misplaced him,”
I’m not ashamed to I was a bit skeptical when I was asked to read this book. A run down cruise ship, murder, mystery, I just wasn’t sure I would like it. Let me tell you, you CAN NOT judge a book by its cover or by the simple blurb about the story. I LOVED this book, LOVED IT!!! It was rather confusing in the beginning but it had to be in order to keep me guessing. This book was more than a simple murder mystery, there were so many mini stories intertwined I couldn’t put the book down. Romance, betrayal, passion, humor and some sex, yup this book has it all. MaryAnn Kempher really brought the characters to life; I couldn’t wait to find out what would happen next in each mini story. How would all the pieces fall into place, what is the connection between the different groups, some I could guess at the path, some I was caught well of guard. I give this book 5 stars and impatiently await the next book by this talented author. I love how she ended the story, “The end, for now.”
“the worst mischief he could expect to encounter would be the occasional shoplifter or drunk tourist.”, yea right! Murder and a delicious crime spree ensue. Jack knows if he doesn’t have a suspect when the ship returns to Tampa two weeks early he’ll likely lose his detective position.
“Well, let’s just say we’ve misplaced him,”
I’m not ashamed to I was a bit skeptical when I was asked to read this book. A run down cruise ship, murder, mystery, I just wasn’t sure I would like it. Let me tell you, you CAN NOT judge a book by its cover or by the simple blurb about the story. I LOVED this book, LOVED IT!!! It was rather confusing in the beginning but it had to be in order to keep me guessing. This book was more than a simple murder mystery, there were so many mini stories intertwined I couldn’t put the book down. Romance, betrayal, passion, humor and some sex, yup this book has it all. MaryAnn Kempher really brought the characters to life; I couldn’t wait to find out what would happen next in each mini story. How would all the pieces fall into place, what is the connection between the different groups, some I could guess at the path, some I was caught well of guard. I give this book 5 stars and impatiently await the next book by this talented author. I love how she ended the story, “The end, for now.”
March 8, 2014
Book Review originally published here: http://www.iheartreading.net/book-tou...
I received a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Even though I didn’t read the first book, I could follow the story of Forever Doomed just fine. The book starts by introducing us to Jack Harney, who takes over his best friend Curt’s responsibilities as head of security while the latter takes care of some personal business. Unfortunately for Jack, things are about to get very messy. Another security guard, Matt, and a beautiful woman named Pam, are both found murdered. Jack has to find out who the killer is before the ship returns to Port, or before the killer makes another victim. On top of that, Amy turns up on board as part of a large wedding party. Amy, the girl Jack can’t forget, no matter how much he wants to. With love and the perils of the heart blocking his logic, Jack must act quickly to find the killer.
Because it all happens on a ship, and there’s no way to get off the ship until it reaches shore, the book kind of reads like a locked-room mystery. The killer is on board of the ship and can strike again at any moment. This instantly makes the book a whole lot more suspenseful.
I figured out the murderer rather quickly though, but that didn’t ruin my fun. The author has a fluent writing style. The characters had a surprising amount of depth, and the plot was solid. Give this one a shot if you enjoy mysteries.
I received a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Even though I didn’t read the first book, I could follow the story of Forever Doomed just fine. The book starts by introducing us to Jack Harney, who takes over his best friend Curt’s responsibilities as head of security while the latter takes care of some personal business. Unfortunately for Jack, things are about to get very messy. Another security guard, Matt, and a beautiful woman named Pam, are both found murdered. Jack has to find out who the killer is before the ship returns to Port, or before the killer makes another victim. On top of that, Amy turns up on board as part of a large wedding party. Amy, the girl Jack can’t forget, no matter how much he wants to. With love and the perils of the heart blocking his logic, Jack must act quickly to find the killer.
Because it all happens on a ship, and there’s no way to get off the ship until it reaches shore, the book kind of reads like a locked-room mystery. The killer is on board of the ship and can strike again at any moment. This instantly makes the book a whole lot more suspenseful.
I figured out the murderer rather quickly though, but that didn’t ruin my fun. The author has a fluent writing style. The characters had a surprising amount of depth, and the plot was solid. Give this one a shot if you enjoy mysteries.
December 23, 2013
Forever Doomed
By: Mary Ann Kempher
I really liked this new book of Mary Ann Kempher. If you haven’t read the first one yet you will not get lost and read this one first. Found the story could be a stand alone. Well a murder has happened and Jack has to figure out who has done it. I was always changing my mind on who it was through the book. How much can go on a cruise ship? Lot’s of guessing . You will enjoy this book a bit of mystery and romance. Two great subjects together and Mary Ann did a wonderful job. Looking to see what is next.
By: Mary Ann Kempher
I really liked this new book of Mary Ann Kempher. If you haven’t read the first one yet you will not get lost and read this one first. Found the story could be a stand alone. Well a murder has happened and Jack has to figure out who has done it. I was always changing my mind on who it was through the book. How much can go on a cruise ship? Lot’s of guessing . You will enjoy this book a bit of mystery and romance. Two great subjects together and Mary Ann did a wonderful job. Looking to see what is next.
December 11, 2013
Though slow to start, for me, I actually ended up quite enjoying this little foray into the depths of intrigue among the passengers of the cruise ship Forever. With quirky characters, such as the Chef whose pastries are constantly being destroyed and the seductive stripper there for, among other things, a bachelor party...Will Jack solve the murders? Will the wedding take place? Jump feet first into the depths of Forever Doomed and find out!
September 5, 2022
WELL, LET ME START OFF BY SAYING THAT I NORMALLY DON'T READ THIS TYPE OF GENRE, BUT AFTER CHECKING IT OUT ON AMAZON AND GOODREADS, I DECIDED TO GIVE IT A SHOT. I AM SOOOO HAPPY THAT I DID. THIS STORY GRABBED ME IN FROM THE FIRST FEW PAGES AND I WAS HOOKED! I FINISHED THIS BOOK IN ABOUT 3 HOURS AND WHEN I WAS FINISHED, I HAD A SERIOUS HANGOVER!
ALL OF THE CHARACTERS WERE WELL DEVELOPED AND THE PLOT WAS ON POINT!! EVERYTHING FLOWED WELL, ESPECIALLY THE PACE OF THE STORY. IT WASN'T BORING AT ALL; LOTS OF SUSPENSE AND IT HAD ME IN A STATE OF PANIC AT SOME POINTS. I FELT LIKE I WAS ONE OF THE CHARACTERS, TRYING TO FIGURE OUT WHO THE KILLER WAS AND SOMETIMES THERE WERE PARTS OF THE STORY THAT JUST SHOCKED ME!! I LOVED THAT MARYANN ALSO INCORPORATED A LITTLE ROMANCE AS WELL. AND TALK ABOUT THAT SEX SCENE! WHOA, HOT STUFF!! THIS BOOK HAD ME LAUGHING OUT LOUD AT TIMES AND I LOVED THAT EACH CHARACTER HAD THEIR OWN STORY. I ESPECIALLY LOVED THE CONNECTION BETWEEN JACK AND AMY; THEY WERE ADORABLE AT TIMES.
OVERALL THIS WAS A GREAT AND SURPRISING READ. I AM DEFINITELY GOING TO CHECK OUT MORE OF MARYANN'S WORK AND HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK
ALL OF THE CHARACTERS WERE WELL DEVELOPED AND THE PLOT WAS ON POINT!! EVERYTHING FLOWED WELL, ESPECIALLY THE PACE OF THE STORY. IT WASN'T BORING AT ALL; LOTS OF SUSPENSE AND IT HAD ME IN A STATE OF PANIC AT SOME POINTS. I FELT LIKE I WAS ONE OF THE CHARACTERS, TRYING TO FIGURE OUT WHO THE KILLER WAS AND SOMETIMES THERE WERE PARTS OF THE STORY THAT JUST SHOCKED ME!! I LOVED THAT MARYANN ALSO INCORPORATED A LITTLE ROMANCE AS WELL. AND TALK ABOUT THAT SEX SCENE! WHOA, HOT STUFF!! THIS BOOK HAD ME LAUGHING OUT LOUD AT TIMES AND I LOVED THAT EACH CHARACTER HAD THEIR OWN STORY. I ESPECIALLY LOVED THE CONNECTION BETWEEN JACK AND AMY; THEY WERE ADORABLE AT TIMES.
OVERALL THIS WAS A GREAT AND SURPRISING READ. I AM DEFINITELY GOING TO CHECK OUT MORE OF MARYANN'S WORK AND HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK
August 12, 2024
Forever Doomed
Very good story. From the beginning to the end, I was kept interested figuring out who was responsible for the murders. There were a couple twist I did not see coming. Ms. Kempher did an excellent job and will check out more of her books.
Very good story. From the beginning to the end, I was kept interested figuring out who was responsible for the murders. There were a couple twist I did not see coming. Ms. Kempher did an excellent job and will check out more of her books.
July 14, 2025
suspenseful
Great read, keeps you in suspense until the end. Can’t wait to see where book 3 will take me. The characters are very likable and you feel like you personally know them.
Great read, keeps you in suspense until the end. Can’t wait to see where book 3 will take me. The characters are very likable and you feel like you personally know them.
February 13, 2014
****FOUR STARS FOR FOREVER DOOMED****
Out on the open water murders happen on a cruise ship. The body count is piling up for Jack and he has just a few days to figure out who killed who and why.
Jack gets roped into taking over head of security on the cruse ship Forever. Only expecting a few drunken fights or problems he thinks it's going to be an easy favor for his friend. But when someone is found stabbed with no real witnesses Jack is thrust into the position as detective on a cruise with poor surveillance cameras.
A wedding is to take place on the cruise but when the ship is turned around headed back to Tampa things get pushed up. Drama between the grooms brothers fiancé and bride keeps you wrapped up in their drama all while death is happening around them.
Marni's friend is killed on the ship. But she isn't acting like someone who is upset by it. Marni is caught in some lies. Did she kill Pam? Who is Marni exactly?
Will Jack figure out who the murder is? Will the wedding continue despite the body count rising, and did Marni kill Pam?
MYSTERIES MYSTERIES AND MORE MYSTERIES!
First off let me say… I had NO idea this book was a sequel. Which is actually good because I didn't read the first one and when reading this one I was never lost! So this can be read as a stand alone.
Secondly I haven't read a mystery since I last read a Mary Kate and Ashley Olson book when I was 8! I LOVED this book. It was a nice a change from what I normally read. The author kept me guessing on who did it. I had ideas on things at first but they were proven wrong. Then some of my other suspicions were proven correct.
In the beginning of this book the first murder is told through many different points of view. I LOVED that! It gave you like a panoramic view of the first murder. It made it fun and so interesting.
This book was very well written. A fun easy read that kept me wondering about the characters and who done it all day long.
So with that said Forever Doomed gets 4 stars from me!!!
Fantastic job MaryAnn Kempher!
-Holly from Pretty lil page turners!
www.prettylilpageturners.blogspot.com
Out on the open water murders happen on a cruise ship. The body count is piling up for Jack and he has just a few days to figure out who killed who and why.
Jack gets roped into taking over head of security on the cruse ship Forever. Only expecting a few drunken fights or problems he thinks it's going to be an easy favor for his friend. But when someone is found stabbed with no real witnesses Jack is thrust into the position as detective on a cruise with poor surveillance cameras.
A wedding is to take place on the cruise but when the ship is turned around headed back to Tampa things get pushed up. Drama between the grooms brothers fiancé and bride keeps you wrapped up in their drama all while death is happening around them.
Marni's friend is killed on the ship. But she isn't acting like someone who is upset by it. Marni is caught in some lies. Did she kill Pam? Who is Marni exactly?
Will Jack figure out who the murder is? Will the wedding continue despite the body count rising, and did Marni kill Pam?
MYSTERIES MYSTERIES AND MORE MYSTERIES!
First off let me say… I had NO idea this book was a sequel. Which is actually good because I didn't read the first one and when reading this one I was never lost! So this can be read as a stand alone.
Secondly I haven't read a mystery since I last read a Mary Kate and Ashley Olson book when I was 8! I LOVED this book. It was a nice a change from what I normally read. The author kept me guessing on who did it. I had ideas on things at first but they were proven wrong. Then some of my other suspicions were proven correct.
In the beginning of this book the first murder is told through many different points of view. I LOVED that! It gave you like a panoramic view of the first murder. It made it fun and so interesting.
This book was very well written. A fun easy read that kept me wondering about the characters and who done it all day long.
So with that said Forever Doomed gets 4 stars from me!!!
Fantastic job MaryAnn Kempher!
-Holly from Pretty lil page turners!
www.prettylilpageturners.blogspot.com
March 4, 2014
Actually gave 3.5 stars but it deserves to be rounded up to 4 instead of rounded down to 3 :)
Well, I’m usually not a huge fan of murder mystery books, but I’ve gotta admit… I really enjoyed this one. I felt like it was very clever of author MaryAnn Kempher to not only introduce the murder events fairly quickly into the story, but she also allowed the details to unfold through the perspective of several different characters, which had me engaged in the mystery right from the start.
The story was very fast paced and had wonderful flow… the characters, although completely different in backgrounds and personality blended well together and had great depth and development. I loved the fact that the story wasn’t just a crime mystery, but also included elements of romance and several witty moments of comedy. I have to say that my favorite character… wasn’t one of the main characters, but one of the minor side individuals by the name of Chef Philippe, the pastry chef on the cruise ship… I swear, with the description of the crazy “Doc Brown” from the “Back to the Future” movies and constantly yelling out “Saboteurs!” every time his character was included in a particular dialogue, just had me giggling my ass off! In addition to crazy Chef Philippe, we also have “Bridezilla”, jump-outta-the cake stripper gram, a couple of pastry loving, “Golden Girl” chef groupies, the equivalent of “Bill & Ted” on the security team having an excellent adventure and catty ex-girlfriends all rounded out the cast of side characters… Now that’s entertainment!
Even though this is actually a sequel to another book written by MaryAnn Kempher, it can certainly be read as a stand-alone. I hadn’t read the first book and had no trouble following along with this one. All in all, this was an enjoyable and very entertaining read that brought so many different facets of genres but all woven together in an excellent story. Great job Miss Kempher!
3.5 Stars ~Kathy
Well, I’m usually not a huge fan of murder mystery books, but I’ve gotta admit… I really enjoyed this one. I felt like it was very clever of author MaryAnn Kempher to not only introduce the murder events fairly quickly into the story, but she also allowed the details to unfold through the perspective of several different characters, which had me engaged in the mystery right from the start.
The story was very fast paced and had wonderful flow… the characters, although completely different in backgrounds and personality blended well together and had great depth and development. I loved the fact that the story wasn’t just a crime mystery, but also included elements of romance and several witty moments of comedy. I have to say that my favorite character… wasn’t one of the main characters, but one of the minor side individuals by the name of Chef Philippe, the pastry chef on the cruise ship… I swear, with the description of the crazy “Doc Brown” from the “Back to the Future” movies and constantly yelling out “Saboteurs!” every time his character was included in a particular dialogue, just had me giggling my ass off! In addition to crazy Chef Philippe, we also have “Bridezilla”, jump-outta-the cake stripper gram, a couple of pastry loving, “Golden Girl” chef groupies, the equivalent of “Bill & Ted” on the security team having an excellent adventure and catty ex-girlfriends all rounded out the cast of side characters… Now that’s entertainment!
Even though this is actually a sequel to another book written by MaryAnn Kempher, it can certainly be read as a stand-alone. I hadn’t read the first book and had no trouble following along with this one. All in all, this was an enjoyable and very entertaining read that brought so many different facets of genres but all woven together in an excellent story. Great job Miss Kempher!
3.5 Stars ~Kathy
April 28, 2014
A cruise ship- murders, smuggling, thievery, a retired army man, and his ex girlfriend on board. The very characters of the book make way for a promising read. The book has just the sort of summary that would make you pick it up. Forever Doomed, is, simply a cruise ship named Forever, which is doomed to tragedies one after another.
The lone PI, (already?) Jack Harney, fills in for a friend, whose job is to man a cruise ship. The friend promises Jack a simple, straightforward job for a few days in the ship. But at the last moment, it is revealed that there is also a wedding planned in the ship. Jack gets a premonition but still manages to go along fairly well.
Not even a day or two into his new job, Jack encounters a murder, and though solving it seems easy, (only the ship’s occupants could be murderers) it is fairly difficult (because everyone is a suspect).
The plot is a simple whodunit sort of story, with many confusing leads and false positives. The characters are well sketched out and written classically, though most are predictable. The credibility of certain scenes is questionable, though there are no major logic errors. The author does give a disclaimer that says she does not know the exact procedure legally, but the story is good enough.
A seasoned reader will find out the culprits halfway through the story, but is a fun read anyway. Forever doomed is a simple, but exciting murder story that tries to be a mystery. The best part is the lead detective, and the way he identifies the thieves. Special mention to Nene, the one character who captured my heart.
There could have been more twists and turns and this would have made the reader sit up in suspense instead of lounging in the armchair.
Read the book if you loved mystery stories with a simple theme and a bit of melodrama in your books.
The lone PI, (already?) Jack Harney, fills in for a friend, whose job is to man a cruise ship. The friend promises Jack a simple, straightforward job for a few days in the ship. But at the last moment, it is revealed that there is also a wedding planned in the ship. Jack gets a premonition but still manages to go along fairly well.
Not even a day or two into his new job, Jack encounters a murder, and though solving it seems easy, (only the ship’s occupants could be murderers) it is fairly difficult (because everyone is a suspect).
The plot is a simple whodunit sort of story, with many confusing leads and false positives. The characters are well sketched out and written classically, though most are predictable. The credibility of certain scenes is questionable, though there are no major logic errors. The author does give a disclaimer that says she does not know the exact procedure legally, but the story is good enough.
A seasoned reader will find out the culprits halfway through the story, but is a fun read anyway. Forever doomed is a simple, but exciting murder story that tries to be a mystery. The best part is the lead detective, and the way he identifies the thieves. Special mention to Nene, the one character who captured my heart.
There could have been more twists and turns and this would have made the reader sit up in suspense instead of lounging in the armchair.
Read the book if you loved mystery stories with a simple theme and a bit of melodrama in your books.
February 18, 2015
Katherine, Scott, and Amy from Mocha, Moonlight, and Murder are back. Katherine and Scott are now engaged. All 3 are on the cruise ship Forever because Scott's brother Alex is having a cruise ship wedding. Scott's entire family is aboard. They don't care too much for Katherine because she is the reason he got shot 6 mos ago. Plus, his ex-fiancee is Alex' bride-to-be's best friend.
Jack Harney is a Tampa Police Detective temporarily acting as Head of Security on Forever. He has been assured there are never any problems bigger than a rowdy drunk or a shoplifter. Boy is he in for a surprise! He has to deal with three murders, stolen diamonds, sabotage of Chef Phillipe's baked goods, antiquated security cameras and systems, witnesses who aren't much help, lustful attraction to a murder suspect, and all the regular goings on aboard ship. Oh yeah, he also has to contend with Amy! Seems Jack and Amy dated back in Reno and he wanted a future together but Amy broke his heart. He moved to Tampa to get away. Now she wants him back!
Poor Jack! If something can go wrong, it will. Jack is a good detective but he simply doesn't have much to work with. He perseveres and saves the day. As if you had any doubts! ;-))
I really liked Mocha... but I liked this book even more. It has a good story line, interesting (and some eccentric) characters, plot twists, humor, murder, lust, sex (with no details)--what more could you want from a cozy mystery. I highly recommend this book. I couldn't put it down. I am definitely reading the next book, Sweet Mystery.
5 Stars
Jack Harney is a Tampa Police Detective temporarily acting as Head of Security on Forever. He has been assured there are never any problems bigger than a rowdy drunk or a shoplifter. Boy is he in for a surprise! He has to deal with three murders, stolen diamonds, sabotage of Chef Phillipe's baked goods, antiquated security cameras and systems, witnesses who aren't much help, lustful attraction to a murder suspect, and all the regular goings on aboard ship. Oh yeah, he also has to contend with Amy! Seems Jack and Amy dated back in Reno and he wanted a future together but Amy broke his heart. He moved to Tampa to get away. Now she wants him back!
Poor Jack! If something can go wrong, it will. Jack is a good detective but he simply doesn't have much to work with. He perseveres and saves the day. As if you had any doubts! ;-))
I really liked Mocha... but I liked this book even more. It has a good story line, interesting (and some eccentric) characters, plot twists, humor, murder, lust, sex (with no details)--what more could you want from a cozy mystery. I highly recommend this book. I couldn't put it down. I am definitely reading the next book, Sweet Mystery.
5 Stars
March 25, 2014
This is a murder mystery set on the cruise ship, Forever.
Jack Harney is a cop in Tampa, and gets a leave from the force in order to sub as head of security on the cruise ship for about two months for his friend.
It does get a bit complicated with a cast of a kabillion, many of them entangled as the friends and relatives of a soon-to-be-married young coupe, plus a score of other passengers and crew. In addition to the planned on-board wedding, we have a bakery contest with all its attendant complexities.
Then one of the crew disappears. Blood is found in the kitchen. The stripper's cake disappears, the one she is supposed to jump out of at the bachelor party. One of the passengers is found dead on the one of the decks. They turn the ship around after only two weeks and head back to Florida so the police can take over the investigation. Jack is trying to find out who dunnit, when another person falls into the elevator shaft and eeeuuuu I don't even want to think about it.
So we have a lot of somewhat high-schooley drama with all those interrelated people and their exes, you know -- who doesn't like who, and who is trying to get into who's knickers, and who is mad at whom -- stuff like that, which pretty much has nothing to do with the murders, and we have the murders, and all in all, there is a lot going on. And you will never guess whodunnit.
But it does keep you turning pages, that's for sure
Jack Harney is a cop in Tampa, and gets a leave from the force in order to sub as head of security on the cruise ship for about two months for his friend.
It does get a bit complicated with a cast of a kabillion, many of them entangled as the friends and relatives of a soon-to-be-married young coupe, plus a score of other passengers and crew. In addition to the planned on-board wedding, we have a bakery contest with all its attendant complexities.
Then one of the crew disappears. Blood is found in the kitchen. The stripper's cake disappears, the one she is supposed to jump out of at the bachelor party. One of the passengers is found dead on the one of the decks. They turn the ship around after only two weeks and head back to Florida so the police can take over the investigation. Jack is trying to find out who dunnit, when another person falls into the elevator shaft and eeeuuuu I don't even want to think about it.
So we have a lot of somewhat high-schooley drama with all those interrelated people and their exes, you know -- who doesn't like who, and who is trying to get into who's knickers, and who is mad at whom -- stuff like that, which pretty much has nothing to do with the murders, and we have the murders, and all in all, there is a lot going on. And you will never guess whodunnit.
But it does keep you turning pages, that's for sure
August 7, 2016
Katherine and Scott both decide to go on a cruise, along with Amy for Scott’s brother’s wedding. Amy had recently broken up with Jack and he had moved away to start anew without her. Amy had decided to tag along on the cruise in hopes to meet someone new! But Amy is slowly coming to the conclusion that she has made a dreadful mistake about breaking up with Jack.
It doesn't take long though when meeting new people takes a back seat to all the dead bodies showing up or people start going missing! There is something very strange going on on the “Forever” and the Head of Security is way in over his head!
Without giving any more of this great little mystery away, I just have to say that I loved this book! These mysteries resemble the Janet Evanovich mysteries in that Katherine and Amy and Scott always get mixed up in things that are way over their heads! The only difference is Katherine and Amy can make up their minds who they really love!
This book is fast-paced and keeps your attention right to the last page! So many twists and turns and little stories mixed in to keep you off track of who the real murderer is! I give this mystery five stars and look forward to reading more of the escapades of Katherine, Scott, Amy and Jack!
It doesn't take long though when meeting new people takes a back seat to all the dead bodies showing up or people start going missing! There is something very strange going on on the “Forever” and the Head of Security is way in over his head!
Without giving any more of this great little mystery away, I just have to say that I loved this book! These mysteries resemble the Janet Evanovich mysteries in that Katherine and Amy and Scott always get mixed up in things that are way over their heads! The only difference is Katherine and Amy can make up their minds who they really love!
This book is fast-paced and keeps your attention right to the last page! So many twists and turns and little stories mixed in to keep you off track of who the real murderer is! I give this mystery five stars and look forward to reading more of the escapades of Katherine, Scott, Amy and Jack!
August 9, 2016
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I was a little unsure about how I would feel about this book given its genre. I’m not normally a who-done-it kind of girl but fortunately I really enjoyed this read!
The book starts off with Jack who is doing his friend a huge favor by stepping in for him at work while he handles personal business. Although Jack hates being on water and confine spaces, he accepts. It was suppose to a simple gig but shortly after Jack starts working on the Forever cruise ship as Head of Security, things get really real, really fast and we are thrust into a game of clue!
I loved that I felt like I was an investigator while reading this story. The characters were all well developed, the plot was amazingly done and the writing was outstanding! Even though this was the 2nd book in the series, I was able to read this book with ease.
I wasn’t exciting the different emotions I experienced while reading this book, that’s for sure. I was laughing, I was gasping, and I was kept guessing the entire time right up until the end!
I am definitely going to be reading more from this author!
I was a little unsure about how I would feel about this book given its genre. I’m not normally a who-done-it kind of girl but fortunately I really enjoyed this read!
The book starts off with Jack who is doing his friend a huge favor by stepping in for him at work while he handles personal business. Although Jack hates being on water and confine spaces, he accepts. It was suppose to a simple gig but shortly after Jack starts working on the Forever cruise ship as Head of Security, things get really real, really fast and we are thrust into a game of clue!
I loved that I felt like I was an investigator while reading this story. The characters were all well developed, the plot was amazingly done and the writing was outstanding! Even though this was the 2nd book in the series, I was able to read this book with ease.
I wasn’t exciting the different emotions I experienced while reading this book, that’s for sure. I was laughing, I was gasping, and I was kept guessing the entire time right up until the end!
I am definitely going to be reading more from this author!
March 26, 2014
The cruise ship "Forever" is doomed, and not just because there is a wedding planned far out to sea! Ex-lovers, new lovers, and want-to-be lovers abound! There are dastardly people aboard, causing murder, mayhem, and ruined cakes, and it's up to one detective to put it all together before time runs out.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review and I'll start off by saying that I loved it! Yes, it's a bit like a soap opera, what with all the hormone bouncing and cattiness, but it read like a guilty pleasure. Even though I wanted to punch some characters in the jiggly bits, it was an easy read with some surprises and a chef with his priorities in exactly the right place. That there was a book that came before this one that you didn't have to read first, made it all the better. It read perfectly as a stand-alone.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review and I'll start off by saying that I loved it! Yes, it's a bit like a soap opera, what with all the hormone bouncing and cattiness, but it read like a guilty pleasure. Even though I wanted to punch some characters in the jiggly bits, it was an easy read with some surprises and a chef with his priorities in exactly the right place. That there was a book that came before this one that you didn't have to read first, made it all the better. It read perfectly as a stand-alone.
August 9, 2016
***I received this book in exchange for an honest review.***
Even though Forever Doomed is a sequel to Mocha, Moonlight and Murder this book can be a stand alone. I did not read the first one so I didn't feel lost. This is the first book I have read of Maryann Kempher and I know it won't be the last. I really enjoyed this book and didn't put it down. The characters,the plot and keeping the readers interested that she did. Jack Harney a detective taking over for his friend on a cruise ship is in for one interesting cruise. His buddy might say it is quiet and nothing really happens, well maybe not for for Curt Noble but for Jack well lets say "they saved it all for Jack." I found it to be a good murder mystery. I give this book a 5-Star review.
March 4, 2014
This is the second book by Kempher, a sequel to MOCHA, MOONLIGHT, AND MURDER. It is not necessary to read the first book, however, to appreciate FOREVER DOOMED. Forever is the name of the cruise ship and Jack is working security; this is how he ends up being the "detective". In addition to the mystery, there is the romantic tension between Jack and the woman he recently broke up, who coincidentally happens to take this cruise. Add a few laughs with wedding hassles and some of the other characters, and this is a fun read. I like Jack and Amy, so I plan on going back and reading the first one in the series, and I'm looking forward to the next in the series.
March 10, 2014
Forever Doomed
By: MaryAnn Kempher
Reviewed by: Aubrey Storm
***I received a ARC for my Honest review***
This book was a genre that I normally don't read, so when starting it I of course was very skeptical of what to expected.
I must say after I started reading it I found it very catching. The mystery and face pace of the book had me into this book in no time.
I am very surprised that I actually enjoyed this murder mystery.
Thanks Author MaryAnn Kempher for a book that took me out of my comfort zone but soon realized I enjoyed!! Would now consider reading more Murder Mystery!!!
By: MaryAnn Kempher
Reviewed by: Aubrey Storm
***I received a ARC for my Honest review***
This book was a genre that I normally don't read, so when starting it I of course was very skeptical of what to expected.
I must say after I started reading it I found it very catching. The mystery and face pace of the book had me into this book in no time.
I am very surprised that I actually enjoyed this murder mystery.
Thanks Author MaryAnn Kempher for a book that took me out of my comfort zone but soon realized I enjoyed!! Would now consider reading more Murder Mystery!!!
February 9, 2015
Book 2 is a stand alone and you don't have to read book 1 but some of the characters are revisited. This time it centers around Detective Jack Harney. You remember Jack, he's Scott's best friend. Well he transfers from Carson Nevada to to Tampa Fla. where he's asked by his old army friend to take his place as head of security on a cruse ship. Sounds simple right? WRONG!! Murder and a crime spree keep Jack on his toes plus it doesn't help him a bit that his ex is one of the passengers. He has just a little time to solve the crimes or he's in big trouble. Betrayal, romance, murder, mystery and some sex, what's not to like about this book and I will probably be reading the next book.
April 29, 2014
I received this book for free from Goodreads.
Well, after a quick scan of the reviews, I guess I am going to be the curmudgeon. This was an OK book. If I had purchased it, I would have been very angry at myself for wasting my money.
The “who dun it “portion is all right. Although it is a stilted and still amateurish, the idea is good. The romance portion is saccharine. I am not a fan of “adult romance” or what I call bodice rippers.
Reads almost like a final paper in a creative writing class. Sorry, I won’t be back for more.
Well, after a quick scan of the reviews, I guess I am going to be the curmudgeon. This was an OK book. If I had purchased it, I would have been very angry at myself for wasting my money.
The “who dun it “portion is all right. Although it is a stilted and still amateurish, the idea is good. The romance portion is saccharine. I am not a fan of “adult romance” or what I call bodice rippers.
Reads almost like a final paper in a creative writing class. Sorry, I won’t be back for more.
March 10, 2014
***Received this book for an honest review***
This is not the genre of book I usually read but I thought I would give it a shot. I’m so glad that I did read it. It was one of the better mysteries I have read.
I loved how different each of the characters were but how well the story flowed with them in it. The story flowed well and was very easy to follow. I pretty much figured out who the killer was right when it happened but I loved reading how they went about figuring it out throughout the book.
I would definitely recommend this book to any mystery lovers out there. VERY awesome book.
This is not the genre of book I usually read but I thought I would give it a shot. I’m so glad that I did read it. It was one of the better mysteries I have read.
I loved how different each of the characters were but how well the story flowed with them in it. The story flowed well and was very easy to follow. I pretty much figured out who the killer was right when it happened but I loved reading how they went about figuring it out throughout the book.
I would definitely recommend this book to any mystery lovers out there. VERY awesome book.
January 2, 2016
This book was recommended by the author on Facebook. As an avid reader, and a professional proofreader and copy editor, I was SHOCKED at how poorly written it was. The grammar alone distracted from the story. The facts never really matched, and it was almost an embarrassment to read this.
If you want to become a writer, please do not take notes from this writer who professes to share on her blog how to write.
When a sentence can say "her and I," I don't even want to read further.
It was boring, predictable, and just plain horrible.
If you want to become a writer, please do not take notes from this writer who professes to share on her blog how to write.
When a sentence can say "her and I," I don't even want to read further.
It was boring, predictable, and just plain horrible.
April 28, 2014
Murder on the High Seas
This was an excellent book and the first I have read by this author. Jack Harney, a detective for a Tampa police department, fills in as head of security on a cruise ship for an old army buddy of his. A job where nothing ever happens. Except when Jack is in charge. There were several errors in the book which slowed me down just a little, but I highly recommend this book. I bought this book with my own money and was not given anything for this review.
This was an excellent book and the first I have read by this author. Jack Harney, a detective for a Tampa police department, fills in as head of security on a cruise ship for an old army buddy of his. A job where nothing ever happens. Except when Jack is in charge. There were several errors in the book which slowed me down just a little, but I highly recommend this book. I bought this book with my own money and was not given anything for this review.
March 22, 2014
First rate who done it! I thoroughly enjoyed this shipboard mystery! It keeps you wondering who killed who and who will be killed next! From the last sentence there may be more mysteries to follow. I would like to read them. The characters are fun.
I was given this book for an honest review.
Reviewed by Laura
I was given this book for an honest review.
Reviewed by Laura
July 23, 2014
This was a cute little story. In the beginning, I'd say the first 20 pages it almost lost me. I had a little trouble keeping up with who is who. I'm glad I stuck it out. Once the story got going it was a cute story. It's an easy read. Multiple story lines kept it from dragging.
An enjoyable read.
An enjoyable read.
April 29, 2018
Was a very cute little book. Totally got me hooked on the series. Nice, quick, easy read and you totally fall in love with the characters. You can't help it. I read this one first (not realizing it was a second in series), and it does work as a stand alone, but it sure does help if you read book one first. I was happy to go back and reread this one after I finished the first however.
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