Spent Identity

Annalisse Series #2

by Marlene M. Bell

It was murder, kidnapping, and conspiracy that had initially swept Manhattan antiquities assessor Annalisse Drury into the arms of sports car magnate Alec Zavos—but with that turmoil safely behind them, Annalisse is left wondering if their whirlwind romance has any future.

Frustrated, she flees the city to Kate Walker's beautiful farmhouse in upstate New York - seeking advice from a woman who's been like a mother to her since she lost her own parents as a teen. However, the moment Annalisse arrives, she discovers Aunt Kate has more pressing things to worry about than Annalisse's stormy relationship with Alec—like a dead man's body discovered in the Walker Farm barn!

Aunt Kate recognizes something about the deceased, but she refuses to explain who he was—and as Annalisse probes further, she uncovers even more secrets her aunt has kept from her. When Kate goes missing, Annalisse realizes that everything she thought she'd known about her family is now in question—and people in her former hometown are willing to kill to preserve their secrets.

Coming to the aid of Annalisse in her search for Kate, Alec is soon swept into the deadly mystery as well. As he and Annalisse work to save her aunt from a ruthless killer, they're forced not only to fight for their survival, but also to determine together whether their love will be strong enough to endure yet another brush with death.

Spent Identity is the second installment of Marlene M. Bell's thrilling Annalisse series - explosive romantic suspense mysteries for fans of Kathy Reichs and Dan Brown.

Genres: Mystery, Romance, Suspense, Thriller, Fiction, Romantic Suspense, Love

Kindle Edition

Published December 11, 2019

About the author

Marlene M. Bell shares many traits with the bold, curious protagonists she writes, chief among them, the uncanny ability to stumble down unexpected paths. Her foray into writing began with popular articles on raising sheep, only to veer into far more thrilling territory with the acclaimed Annalisse series. Starring a New York antiquities appraiser who chases dangerous criminals in far-flung locales, the series has won eight international literary awards and an avid fan base around the world.

When Marlene’s not busy plotting her next heart-pounding novel, she’s exploring her wooded Texas farm with camera in hand and thirty sheep faithfully in tow. As an accomplished painter and nature photographer, she’s always hunting for the next spark of inspiration—or the next adventure calling her name.

Visit marlenembell.com to stay up to date with new releases or request a signed copy.

Reviews

[Althea ☾ · Rating 3 out of 5]

“When my mind wanders, it is always to you.”

Spent Identity is surely exactly everything that it is marketed as: romantic and suspenseful.

I should mention that I haven’t read the first book in this series but this book can stand on it’s own in my opinion. If you are interested in reading Spent Identity and are wondering if the first book needs to be read before getting into this one: I completely understood everything that was happening, you’ll be fine.

— overall thoughts: 3.5 —

First of all, that dead guy in the barn in the very first chapter completely caught me off guard and captured me right off the bat. Just from that opening scene I already knew that the mystery would be intriguing.

I have honestly not read that much adult mystery but I seriously enjoyed the atmosphere of this book a lot more than I thought I would. It’s safe to say that it reached my expectations of a romantic murder mystery. The writing style is not overly flowery, the actions scenes were fantastic in my opinion, and I just really loved following Alec and Annalise.

Other than that, the suspense is definitely there and the mystery was my favorite aspect. The overall intense and dark atmosphere played a big role in my enjoyment.

Alec and Annalise’s dynamic was so easy to flow with, especially given that I did not have the the emotional connections to them as people who have read the first book did. Aside from the significant lack of diversity I have to say that it may be slightly cliché but still definitely romantic. Anyhow, there was far from a shortage of characters to be attached to even if you are not sold on the romance.

I do not have much of a say in terms of character development from the first book since I did not read it prior to reading Spent Identity but here the characters remained mainly consistent. With that said, it’s safe to say that this is more of a plot-driven book and I would recommend this to you if you enjoy the romantic mystery vibe.

Unfortunately, the plot felt like it was dragging in too many parts for me personally and that was the main reason that I was not able to give it the full 5 stars. It is slow paced so I get that was for the suspense aspect. Spent Identity follows a one track plot for the most part but it was not a bug letdown, just a personal preference. At the same time, I liked that it was easy to listen to and the plot was not overly complex.

I would recommend this to anyone into romantic murder mysteries, you’ll get what you are looking for.


— I received this audiobook at no-cost from Audiobook Empire. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it. —

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[Leslie aka StoreyBook Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm not sure where to start with my review other than to hold on to your seat because it is going to be a fast and furious ride!

This is the second book in the series and while it could be read on its own, it might be best to pick up the first book to get a feel for the characters and the background.  The book provides plenty of details to lay a foundation for what occurred in case you choose not to read Stolen Obsession, so it isn't an absolute must.

The story picks up with Annalisse and Alec and their relationship.  Let's just say things are a little rocky, not because they don't care for each other, but that life is getting in the way and someone might need to make some changes to his work life.  I can't imagine what it is like to be part of the elite class and the security measures that need to be in place to keep people safe.  But sometimes it isn't the unknown that causes a problem, it can be someone in your own family as Annalisse discovers.

Annalisse and Alec's characters are still developing.  I'm not sure if I could be friends with Annalisse because she has a tendency to let things slip out that shouldn't be said out loud, at least not to those that are in the room.  She even admits to having a big mouth, so at least that is progress.  Plus, bad luck seems to follow her and I'm not sure I want to be around her in case it rubbed off on me!  Alec was left to fill some big shoes but it is getting away from his passion as a veterinarian.  Unfortunately, it has blinded him to reality and he is close to losing what he holds most dear to him.

Now for the wild ride - Annalisse's Aunt Kate goes missing, there is a car wreck, Kate's son is selling the farm from under Kate, there is a kidnapping, someone unexpected appears from nowhere, and so much more.  And all of this happens within a week.  It is non-stop action and kept me turning the page until well past my bedtime.  I think that if all of this was happening to me I would need a vacation away from everyone to decompress.

The mystery kept me intrigued and on the edge of my seat.  There were so many possibilities for who was involved and why that I never guessed correctly until all was revealed.  Some of it was very surprising, but some I guessed earlier in the book but not fully.  Not everything is wrapped up in a nice bow at the end, there is still a cliffhanger or two and hopefully, those will be addressed in the next book.

This series is not one to miss and I can't wait until the next book comes out to see what happens next for Annalisse and Alec.

We give this 4 paws up.

[Dianne · Rating 3 out of 5]

The book opens with Annalisse heading to the farm she saw as home and the aunt who raised her for comfort, regrouping and advice. What she finds is a dead body, a family member threatening to sell the beloved farm just as her aunt goes missing. Unresolved romantic issues from the previous book, I assume will flare and Annalisse will find herself in the middle of a tsunami of trouble, deceit and danger-THEN the plot thickens!

SPENT IDENTITY by Marlene M. Bell is a murder mystery with tentacles reaching in every direction, a good choice for me, but I just couldn’t relate to the characters or events without the background and getting-to-know-you of book one. The author can write, she can create interesting characters, some fleshed out well, some not-so-much, perhaps their set up was done previously?

As this book stands, it is good, there is lots of action and a huge dependency on smells…lots of smells.

I received this book as part of a blog tour for review and to be honest, I was NOT told this was the second in a series or I would have requested book one or not reviewed.

Series: Annalisse - Book 2
Publication Date: December 11, 2019
Publisher: Marlene M. Bell
Genre: Mystery
Print Length: 254 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com

[Sophia · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had a cover love moment- pretty flowers yet ominous feeling- that led me to reading the blurb which led me to deciding I had to read this one. New to me author and series just added to the excitement.

Spent Identity is the second in the Annalisse series of romantic suspenses. I did all right reading it out of order, but that said, I think I would have gotten more out of it reading in order so that's what I recommend.

The book opens with a short prologue of a man finding a body. Ironically, he was reading a murder mystery and is a huge fan of the genre.

Next, Annalisse has left NYC to visit her Aunt Kate and the family farm where she hopes to spend some time with Kate who never fails to give her good counsel and make her feel better. It has been months since Annalisse was with Alec and she suspects her relationship is over as he dives back into his jet setting world and his workaholic habits.
But, instead of a relaxing and stress-free visit with Aunt Kate, she learns that Kate's son is selling the farm out from under her and there is a dead body in the barn. Kate knows something about it, but before they get much further, Kate disappears. Alec swoops back in to help and naturally, his presence complicates just as much as helps Kate since it was her disappearing relationship with Alec that sent her running to the farm.

Spent Identity took me utterly by surprise. I was not expecting all the adrenaline moments, the rapid pace, or the feeling that I was constantly discovering more and more mysteries and character complexities. It was the ominous roses on the cover. Ha! I blame them for being blown about like that. I had a good time with that part and, to some extent, the characters. There were a few development issues that made it hard to know certain characters and their motives better.

Though well-developed, it was a struggle for me to appreciate both Annalisse and Alec. She got on my nerves a few times with the way she cuts loose with her mouth not giving a thought to others and I got startled a few times with choices and actions since I understood her to be an antiquities expert. Alec really needed to get over the unneeded jealousy of another man especially when he prioritized his life differently for the last few months. There were other quibbling little things, but, at the same time, the flaws made them real, too.

Honestly, I had no idea who was behind things in the end or even what all was significant and not. I did like seeing Alec back in the picture- not that I read the first book so I could only understand to a certain extent- because I liked seeing them working together. At first, I didn't think they worked as a couple, but I let myself be persuaded. Mostly, I enjoyed the wild ride of a mystery this was.

So, that was a great surprise and I invite other mystery romance lovers to give it a shot. Don't follow my lead, though. Instead, get the series from the beginning.

My thanks to Lola's Blog Tours for providing a copy of the book to read in exchange for an honest review.

[Tangled in Text · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read the first book in the series, but it is not necessary. Spent Identity can be read as a stand alone. It had enough little snapshots into the previous book that you are not left feeling like you are missing a piece of the puzzle.

I loved Spent Identity because there was never a slow moment. The story had a great energy and was action-packed. There was so much going on that I never had the chance to guess at the culprit. I stayed glued to the edge of my seat the entire book! There was never a downtime where something new wasn't developing which is when I usually read a little more passively to focus my efforts on being my own sleuth to try and solve it before the characters do. There were so many red herrings and suspects that I really had no idea until it was revealed and they weren't even on my radar! Marlene kept me connected and feeling like a part of this story.

I'm sorry Annalisse, but I'd be giving you a wide berth if I knew you. You seem to have EVERYTHING that can go wrong in life happening to you times ten. Your parents are dead, your best friend was murdered in the last book, and now your aunt is missing. I'm sorry but it’s you, not me and I'd be running.

Two little comments and both about Annalisse's man of hers. One he refers to her multiple times as the art lady and if my husband called me, the accountant lady, like he calls her the art lady, I'd look at him like he's crazy. I didn't find that endearing in the slightest. Then he refers to her aunt as Lady, and I cringed. Instead of using her name, I'm just imagining me getting a family members attention by saying, hey lady, and getting slapped; it felt disrespectful and awkward. That boy needs some suave, but maybe that's considered normal where he comes from.

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Spent Identity is the second book in the Annalisse series. It’s a stand alone although I would have preferred to have read book one first. I loved the setting in the Catskills in upper New York. The author does a great job of describing the big farm/ranch. I was hooked immediately when a decomposing body is found in the barn, and then Annalisse’s Aunt Kate goes missing. I struggled a bit with character confusion which I think would be remedied by reading book one first. The writing and twists and turns kept me engaged. I love descriptive writing and Bell does a great job, “The scent of honeysuckle from pots on the porch quickly replaced her concern for something dead nearby." I like Annalisse, she’s a badass.” I recommend to all mystery lovers. My plans are to rad the first book before moving on to book 3. Thanks to the author and BookSirens for giving me opportunity to read and review Spent Identity. I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. 3.5 rounded up to 4

[InD'tale Magazine · Rating 4 out of 5]

It will keep the reader turning the page to the very end.

Read full review in the 2020 February issue of InD'tale Magazine.

[Sheila Samuelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: 5 Stars!!
Review:
Another Phenomenal Edge of your seat Thriller by Marlene M Bell!!

This Book picks up where Book 1 left off with Annalisse driving from Manhattan NY to Goshen NY to visit her Aunt but while visiting there's a disappearance and Murder.

There were lots of twists and turns in this book at the end there were two twists I did not see coming and I'm not going to mention them in this review because I don't want to give away any spoilers for anybody that is looking forward to reading this series but I will tell you that this book was just so intense to read there was so much going on but it wasn't confusing it was just so fast-paced that when I thought who the kidnapper and killer was I was completely wrong it ended up being somebody else and when I thought it was that person I ended up being somebody else so it definitely keeps you guessing it's not a predictable thriller.

The Characters were fun and enjoyable to read about. Most all of the Characters from Book 1 were in this Book with 7 NEW Characters that I felt really made the storyline evolve even more to make it more interesting.

The Setting was beautifully described which made me feel like I was actually in Goshen NY while reading especially when the scenery was described.

Overall a Wonderfully written Book 2 in this Thriller Series. Can't wait to read Book 3 very soon!!

[Kristine Hall · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 STARS. What hits readers from the very first lines of SPENT IDENTITY is the smell. Reading SPENT IDENTITY is as much an olfactory experience as anything else. Whether an aroma emanates from food or folk or flora or fauna, readers can count on experiencing scents right along with the characters in the book. I have a particularly sensitive sense of smell, so I read and wrinkled my nose at the descriptions of death, decay, and body odors (of both the dead and the living, who may “smell like old corn chips and onions.” Ha! Spot on!) Smells can be such a powerful trigger, and author Marlene Bell incorporates them perfectly into the story as a mechanism to give readers extra information and make the scenes realistic.

Bell sneaks in small details that careful readers will notice (like the worn copy of Annalisse’s favorite book that she always carries). Many are red herrings, but some are real clues to completing the many puzzles readers will discover in SPENT IDENTITY. There are several layers of mystery and at times, the threads of information seem disconnected, wispily floating in the air like spider’s silk. Wonderfully, the threads all find each other and connect so that motivations are exposed, and questions are mostly answered – quite a feat considering the main characters’ propensity for self-sabotage, finding danger, and getting injured.

There are five key players in SPENT IDENTITY, and while Bell fleshes-out some more completely than others, none are ever fully revealed to readers. That’s a little frustrating, resulting in my feeling less sympathetic or even ambivalent about the characters. I want to care more, but I just don’t know enough about what makes any of them tick. Additionally, some of the characters’ actions and reactions puzzle me and/or feel false, particularly in terms of their lack of professionalism or acting illogically given all the surrounding factors and prior experiences that they bring to the table. Happily, the action-packed, rapid pace of the story combined with my desire to see how it all would turn out kept me fully engrossed in the story so much that I shirked work duties and read it in two sittings.

SPENT IDENTITY can stand alone even though it’s the second book in the Annalisse Series, but the author brings a lot of broad details from the first book into the second book. I read (with my ears) book one, STOLEN OBSESSION, and so I knew the references in full and enjoyed the reminders of the chaos and calamities that these characters have already endured. Having this prior knowledge enriches the reading experience, and I recommend that readers start with book one. Honestly, some of the full background information that can only be gleaned by reading the first book seems vital to fully understanding SPENT IDENTITY, particularly when it comes to relationships between characters. Without that insight, I can see how some readers starting with book two might not have patience for Annalisse’s or Alec’s (or even Chase’s) behavior. Plus, everyone needs to know Generosa Zavos! Read book one.

The ending of SPENT IDENTITY is fully satisfying and allows readers to breathe after holding their collective breath through the dizzying pace of this roller coaster ride of a book. Bell leaves readers gratified -- and intrigued with a bit of a cliffhanger and a well-placed page at the story’s conclusion announcing book three, CALICO RAVEN. Hooray! I am in!

Thank you to the author and Lone Star Book Blog Tours for providing me a print copy in exchange for my honest opinion – the only kind I give. This full review and other special features on Hall Ways Blog.

[Jenn Z at That's What She's Reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

(photo credit to Kristine Hall @hall_ways)

When the previous book in this series, Stolen Obsession, toured with Lone Star in 2018, I did not have the opportunity to read it. Garnering so much fanfare from the team definitely got my attention, so I was super excited to get a chance to read this book for this tour. Although the author does a great job of incorporating previous events into this story so that new readers won't feel lost, I do want to return to the first book simply to understand more of the nuance that is certainly difficult to capture when you start from the middle. While I enjoyed the story, I'm quite sure I would have felt more connected to the characters and their romance had I obviously began with the first book.

From the very beginning, a disarming tone is set up that suggests not everything is what it seems. Something is dead, but no one is quite sure what. When the body is found, questions surface about identity and whether the actual ID card discovered can be trusted. And then suddenly, Kate vanishes. So many crimes are going on, but are they all connected or just coincidences? Escalating crimes follow, bringing more danger to the mysteries. Walking through the perspectives of Annalisse and Alex allows the truth to unfold right along with the reader, so every twist and turn is shocking for everyone and incredibly difficult to pin down until the final reveal.

While at times unsettling, I enjoyed just how much action and adventure Annalisse finds herself in considering her everyday career as an antiquities appraiser. While I personally haven't determined how I feel about Annalisse, her character is a testament to how lifelike she has been written. She could be charming, annoying, resilient, fragile, or fickle. She has strong emotional responses and reactions, yet I found myself either wanting her to trust her instincts more or acknowledge the possibility that if a clue looks like a clue it more than likely is a clue.

The tension is fantastically built as the characters move to new locations to find out more information; however, the pacing tended to slow down once they arrived and casual conversation ensued or romantic trysts were attempted. I found myself baffled at times by the lack of urgency when the violence and upheaval was taking a dramatic uptick. But in the end, it seemed to speak once again to how authentic the writing reflects our own reactions at any given moment.

"The scent of honeysuckle from pots on the porch quickly replaced her concern for something dead nearby."

Echoing the reflections of fellow reviewers, the author's descriptive writing is phenomenal at setting the entire scene, especially when it comes to the olfactory sense. Whether it's the body decomposing in the barn, Kate's signature lavender sachets, rank body odor, or the fresh scent of warm pastry, every aroma emanates off the page, leaving you scrunching your nose or taking a deep breath! The imagery is beautiful or nightmarish, but remarkably well done.

Overall, this was a fast paced, engaging, and easy read that will resonate with readers who enjoy their mysteries with a little more edginess. I look forward to the next book, Calico Raven, to discover what Annalisse will find herself thrust into next!

Many thanks to the author and Lone Star Book Blog Tours for providing me with a free copy of the book. This is my honest and thoughtful review.

[Lorilei Gonzales · Rating 4 out of 5]

My first thoughts on the cover of Spent Identity by Marlene M. Bell were how beautiful and eerie it was at the same time. There’s something classy about the red roses in the vase and the envelope with the calligraphy ‘A’ on it, but the wilt to the roses and the shattered and crooked title stamped on top of them clues the reader to the sinister story within.

As much as I liked the irony of the farmhand reading a crime novel while stumbling across a crime scene, I thought that the tone of the prologue didn’t quite match the rest of the book. I’m having trouble explaining this – I have typed and deleted my thoughts three times now – but here goes. Ethan is from New Zealand and he is the first character we meet. Although the narration is from a third person perspective, the tone has an across the pond feel, probably because Ethan’s thoughts are on the page as well. I probably didn’t explain that very well but it obviously stuck with me and I wanted to address it.

In the first chapter, the tone changes with the introduction of our protagonist, the lovely Annalisse. It isn’t until she interacts with the opposite sex that you realize how her beauty outshines her pretty name. I liked the contrast of her being this take charge, independent woman who still needs reassurances and shared confidences with her closest relative, Aunt Kate. Kate is also the picture of strength, even at her advanced age and ailment. She amused me most when she moons of Annalisse’s boyfriend, Alec, one minute and then pragmatically dismisses the thought of him the next.

From the moment that Ethan, Annalisse, and Kate try to identify a dead man in the barn, confusion set in on me and I couldn’t shake it for most of the book. There were so many male characters mentioned or in motion (two dead and at least six others interacting with Annalisse), that I felt like I couldn’t keep everyone straight. The name found on the dead man was significant to Kate, but the deceased was not that person. Alec was easy enough to keep straight, but between his security detail/friends that show up to try to solve the mystery, I got a little lost. And it made me a little squirmy that even Alec’s friends seemed to kinda have the hots for Annalisse too.

But character confusion aside, I was truly riveted with the twists and turns. I had two or three theories in my brain and not one of them were even close to the ending. But even more fantastic than the big reveal at the end, I appreciated Bell’s use of exposition throughout to prepare us for what a bad ass Annalisse is. I had not read Stolen Obsession, so I would have been confused with Annalisse’s cool head in the midst of crisis and experience with weapons had there not been snippets of details from book one of the series. I also really enjoyed the thought process that the “team” let the reader in on so that we could try to solve the mystery alongside them. And don’t get me started on the messages from the unknown person/killer. The creativity and the danger behind each “gift” sent a tingle down my spine.

Since I plan on going back to read the first book, I recommend you do the same if you have not already read it. I think that seeing how Annalisse and Alec first meet and the trials that they go through together will make you more invested in seeing them through a difficult time in their relationship. I’m looking forward to book three.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Few books have frustrated, flustered or forced me to the edge of my seat as much as Spent Identity by Marlene M. Bell. I was happy to discover Bell's first book in the Annalisse Series, Stolen Obsession, almost two years ago. Aside from the gorgeous cover art, I quickly fell in love with the cocktail of historical artifacts (my secret love) and murder mystery romance. Stolen Obsession had excellent pacing, characters, and the banter between Annalisse and Alec was the stuff of Old Hollywood films. I was excited to see where their adventures would carry us next. 

In a refreshing twist, Spent Identity shifts settings from the high rises of New York, to Aunt Kate's peaceful sheep farm. Annalisse is taking a break from her lonely lifestyle of luxury and going back to her roots. She craves the peace that comes from her aunt's farm and Kate's advice on what to do about her dwindling relationship with Alec. After all, Aunt Kate always knows what to say, and there's also the pleasant distraction of New Zealand farmhand Ethan. But Kate has troubles of her own, between her son selling the farm against her will and the dead body Ethan discovers in the barn. Thus begins a whirlwind race to solve several interweaving mysteries, filled with unexpected twists and turns. With no way to discern friend from foe, Annalisse is determined to save her aunt, their home, and her relationship with Alec.

Happily Ever After doesn't exist in real life, not without work and communication. Both of these relationship pillars are sorely lacking between Annalisse and Alec Zavros on the outset of Spent Identity. When we last saw our title characters, they had given into weeks of sexual tension and dove headfirst into their steamy relationship. Fast-forward nine months later and Annalisse faces the reality of dating a former playboy/billionaire workaholic. Alec's initial attempts to suddenly compensate for his absences were frustrating to read, not helped by Annalisse so easily giving in. Will he truly change his tune? Or is he giving her what she wants for now?

A highlight and delight, in contrast, came from my new favorite character, wannabe sleuth, Ethan. Ethan adds both a needed sense of flirty fun and an added layer of mystery. I also couldn't help but see actor/musician Brett Mackenzie every time Ethan came onto the scene. Still, as fun as Ethan was, I felt his side of the love triangle was unnecessary. I didn't enjoy Alec's irrational jealousy of him, especially since Annalisse never seemed to take Ethan seriously as a potential suitor. Part of me hoped to see Ethan become Annalisse's comedic sidekick as she unveiled the mystery. Instead, Ethan constantly gets left behind in favor of more angst from our star couple.

An exploration of what happens after happily ever after, Spent Identity carries our heroine on a personal journey that will radically impact her future. Marlene M. Bell has once again delivered an inspired suspenseful romance and a worthy sequel to Stolen Obsession.

**I was provided with a copy of Spent Identity by the author and this is my voluntary and honest review.**

[Meghan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was received as an ARC from Marlene M. Bell in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.

We are in the search of good thrillers and I fell in love with this book right from the start. Spent Identity tells the story Annalisse Drury and her arrival at her family estate unknowing that there are secrets kept in the dark until now. Since Annalisse's arrival, a dead body was found, her aunt she reconnects with disappears and there is a vengeful murder taken place with Annalisse as the prime suspect. Annalisse must stop at nothing to uncover the secrets and save her family even if it means befriending the Greek Tycoon turned ally Alec Zavos. I know our community will enjoy this book. This had everything; drama, action, conflict and edge of your seat thrills that will leave you speechless and then talk about it all night. Our Adult Book Club will for sure love this and I can't wait for the thrilling discussion we will have come the release of this book.

We will consider adding this title to our Adult Fiction collection at our library. That is why we give this book 5 stars.

[Clueless Gent · Rating 4 out of 5]

Spent Identity is filled with enough twists and turns to make Lombard Street envious!

Marlene M. Bell certainly knows how to spin a tale - and spin it she does. The book starts off a little on the slow side, but as the mystery deepened I found myself turning the pages rather quickly. I had a very hard time keeping my eyes in place - they always wanted to skip ahead a few paragraphs to see what happened.

This story is book two of the Annalisse Series. I did not read the first book, and that took away some of the enjoyment of this story. There are many times when the author refers to action that happened in the first book. Although some backstory was provided, I know this book would have been even more enjoyable if I read its predecessor. But please don’t misunderstand: this is a wonderful story and I really enjoyed it!

Spent Identity Fills the Senses

Bell did an amazing job with her description. She was sure to touch on all the senses. If a character is sweating, Bell tells us how much. If a character is crying, Marlene tells us how salty the tears taste. And don’t get me started on the German cooking! It was utterly delightful.

This story spans a wide gamut of sensory material. In addition to the good smells of the German cooking, there are some pretty nasty ones, too! Yes, there is a skunk, but that’s far from the worst smell.

If a character is in pain, Bell describes it perfectly. If a character is still healing from an injury, Bell doesn’t forget to include how subsequent events impact the injury.

Technically Speaking

I only came across about a handful of very minor SPAG problems. They certainly didn’t take away from my enjoyment of the story.

The character arcs for the two main characters were pretty good. I’d be interested in seeing how they compare to the character arcs in the first book.

As I mentioned, the beginning of the book is a bit slow - at least it was for me. It does take a little while to get going, but don’t give up! You’d miss all the good stuff. The crescendo to the climax begins about midway though the book. Once it starts, it never slows down. That’s a good thing.

There are some pretty darn good plot twists in the story. They’re not all at the end, either. I have mixed feelings about one of the big reveals near the end. A little backstory would have made it more believable.

I will likely go back and read the first book, and then the third one when it comes out. The main characters are very likable, and the antagonists and very unlikable. It’s a good match. It’s a fun read and I recommend it.

(I received a free copy of this book from Lone Star Book Blog Tours in exchange for my honest review.)

[Lynn Poppe · Rating 4 out of 5]

I came for the mystery and stayed for the secrets revealed.
But what really kept me turning the pages in Spent Identity was what happened to Kate? And who is the dead guy in the barn? Ms. Bell skillfully keeps us guessing throughout most of the novel. There are kidnappings, multiple plot twists, various potential baddies, and a few more spoiler-y wild goose chases sprinkled throughout.
The novel moves at a mostly quick pace, with Annalisse driving the search for her aunt.
On the character front, I don’t know if I would want to hang out with this cast of characters on a personal level. Disaster does seem to follow Annalisse and the other characters (and I’m accident-prone enough!). Annalisse describes herself as “Dangerous to longevity”. I do appreciate that she is determined to find her aunt and is willing to fight back when needed. Alec is an interesting character. He has realized that he’s taken on too much work (as a result of actions in the first novel) and that he needs to make some changes to keep their relationship alive. I appreciate the growth shown in his character to the betterment of their relationship.
I loved the addition of P.I. Bill Drake to the characters in this novel. He steps in to help find Kate. While doing so, he injects some much-needed humor into the story. I’d be interested in reading other stories with his low-key Florida vibe.
I’m not sure if it was intentional by Ms. Bell or not, but I did struggle with the love square of the main male characters all showing interest in Annalisse. I had the impression that, in addition to her boyfriend Alec, both Ethan (the Kiwi farm hand) and Bill (the P.I.) were attracted to Annalisse. Alec’s jealousy, deservedly or not, is not the actions of an adult and is a character flaw I am not interested in. And to top it off, Annalisse seemed oblivious to both Ethan and Bill. I would have preferred that Ethan and Bill focus on solving the crime instead of Annalisse.
This novel also serves a somewhat cautionary tale of don’t mess with the crime scene! Annalisse, Kate, and Ethan all try to play amateur sleuth with the dead body in the barn. And I imagine any detective who came across the disturbed scene would be cringing. I think we should take this as a warning and NOT disturb crime scenes when we come across them!
Spent Identity is the second book in a series, but it can be read as a stand-alone. Ms. Bell covers enough of the first novel to fill in any plot gaps for a new reader while not recapping so much as to fatigue a seasoned reader.
Overall, the fast pace kept my attention and the mystery kept me intrigued. Check out Spent Identity for a great mystery read.

[Ruthie Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Spent Identity by Marlene M. Bell is quite the mystery, filled with an abundance of clues but few answers and even fewer leads as to who did what to whom. The reveal is slow and steady in this one but well worth the wait. Marlene knows how to keep the reader intrigued and turning the pages. If you think you are good at puzzling out mysteries early on, brace yourself because with Spent Identity, you have met your match.

When Annalisse Drury heads to the Walker Ranch to see her Aunt Kate, she has no idea her world is about to be upended...again. Spent Identity follows Stolen Obsession (2018), but it can still be enjoyed as a standalone, even with the many references to events in book one. Both are thrilling adventures, so you will certainly want to read them both.

Annalisse's relationship with the handsome, wealthy Alec Zavos appears to be all but over, and she needs her Aunt Kate's pragmatism and sage advice. When Annalisse arrives at Walker Farm, she falls headlong into a murder mystery, followed almost immediately by Kate's disappearance. Foul play is definitely afoot. This mystery has so many twists, turns, and surprises that determining the identity of the culprit (or culprits) early on is virtually impossible. Suspects are coming out of the woodwork in droves. Who killed the mysterious dead guy in Aunt Kate's barn? Is the ranch hand and amateur sleuth, Ethan, a good guy or a bad guy? Why aren't Kate's adult children concerned about her disappearance? Can Annalisse and Alec salvage their relationship amidst yet another dangerous adventure?

But the big question on everyone's mind is where is Aunt Kate?

Marlene M. Bell spins quite the web of misadventures, strange phone calls, suspicious packages, compromised crime scenes, and more than one kidnapping. What makes this mystery so entertaining is the light dusting of romance between Alec and Annalisse and the comedic undertones that expand as the story progresses. Mix in several interesting characters (and I really do mean interesting) and a baffling mystery that will keep you guessing, and you're good to go. Spent Identity has all the necessary elements for an engaging afternoon (or evening) of unraveling a perplexing mystery and finding out just what happened to Aunt Kate.

[Christena · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

“All she’s missing is the space suit. That Seattle rain washed away what sense she had left.” Annalisse laughed.

Marlene M. Bell wove a fast-paced mystery story in the second Annalisse Series book. In Spent Identity the story begins with a dead man and then escalates to a missing person. It is a fast nonstop, a who-done-it thrill-ride story that has some romance, lots of family problems, and evils that I never saw coming.

Is the story far-fetched in an Alice in Wonderland kinda way? Definitely but that was the charismatic delight of Spent Identity. Bell crafted a story that literally took me away from my present situation of waiting on my adoptive mom to have surgery. Annalisse’s story is one that makes you so immersed in the story that you’ll forget about all your own troubles and woes. Trust me Annalisse has ample troubles that you’ll forget your own.

The author’s writing is very conversational that allowed me to immerse myself in the story completely. From there I was taken on a twisted, winding mystery story that I could never guess what was coming next. I had my own gut feelings about where the story was leading but where it landed was a complete shocker.

If you love swift books that can take you away from your own world for a weekend then check out Spent Identity. Maybe your problems will seem less than Annalisse’s.

By the way – I love authors who introduce me to new plants. I really thought candytuft was a made-up plant by the author. It is, in fact, real with the flowerheads looking very similar to Texas native frogfruit.

As a side note, I did not read the first book in the series. The second book in this series can stand alone on itself if it needed. There were enough snippets woven into this story that I was not lost.

[Jypsy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Prism and the author for a complimentary copy. I voluntarily reviewed this book. All opinions expressed are my own.

Spent Identity
Annalisse Series #2
By: Marlene M. Bell


*REVIEW* 🌟🌟🌟🌟

How do you like your mysteries? Like boiling water or making a three tiered cake from scratch? As the crow flies or in a zigzag pattern all the way? In Spent Identity, author Marlene M. Bell is driving at top speed down the zigzag mountain road while throwing homemade cake out the window! Are you with me here, or have I lost you? This story is chaotic to the core, and I quiet liked it. If I can guess the plot twist, the story is ruined. That's not the case here. It's a mystery that branches off into something else then grows vines that go in every direction. I'm being vague, I know, and it's intentional. The characters, well, Annalisse is bad luck walking. If you see her coming your way, throw some salt over your left shoulder and run. Alec is too rude for my taste. Lady? Seriously? I just dislike him, and I'm not sure how I feel about Annalisse and Alec together-annoying or not? The side characters are much more likeable and genuine and humorous, and I wouldn't mind a story about them. This story is well written, dramatic, compelling and suspenseful, as well as beautifully descriptive. The setting, the atmospheric presence of place and time, is its own immersive character. All in all, it's a crazy thrill ride with numerous surprises that mystery fans will love!

[The Page Ladies Book Club · Rating 4 out of 5]

Spent Identity by Marlene M. Bell is another high-stakes mystery that plunges Annalisse Drury into danger that’s far closer to home.

Still reeling from the whirlwind of murder, betrayal, and romance that brought her and sports car mogul Alec Zavos together, Annalisse flees New York for the comfort of her beloved Aunt Kate’s farmhouse. But instead of solace, she finds a corpse hidden in the barn and a tangle of secrets that suggest her aunt has been hiding much more than Annalisse ever imagined. When Kate herself vanishes, Annalisse is left to confront the shadowy truths of her past and a town determined to keep them buried, even if it means killing to protect them.

What makes this sequel compelling is how Bell weaves together mystery and family drama. The suspense escalates with every revelation, shifting the danger from international intrigue to deeply personal stakes. Alec’s return raises the tension even further both in the danger he and Annalisse face, and in their evolving relationship. Can a romance born in chaos survive when tested again and again by death and deception?

Bell’s writing combines small-town unease with nail-biting suspense, offering readers both the thrill of a whodunit and the emotional pull of a heroine struggling to reconcile love, loss, and loyalty.


Spent Identity is a twisty, emotional ride that proves Marlene M. Bell knows how to raise both the stakes and the heartbeats. Fans of romantic suspense will be eager to follow Annalisse and Alec wherever their dangerous path leads next.

[Shelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

After the excitement that Annalisse and Alec faced in Stolen Obsession, I was curious where the new adventure would take them. The scenery is slightly less exotic; but nonetheless, the action makes up for staying stateside. Once Auntie Kate is missing, Annalisse faces another wild ride of chasing down leads and warding off people who put her in danger.


I was taken back a bit when Alec proposes so soon into the book and she refuses. I felt like it was a cold, odd rejection. She was heading to visit with Kate because she felt like Alec was pulling away, then she gets what she wants deep down and it's a flat-out no. I tried to put myself in her shoes and let that one slide --- but it nagged me through the entire book.


Along the search for Kate, Annalisse seemed to drift away from Alec in a few ways. The romance was minimal, making me wonder if they'd end the book together. I'm hoping that will increase in the next book.


Bell does an amazing job twisting you into confusion with the pieces of evidence gathered from one chapter to the next. When the big reveal happens, it will add even more questions. When they're answered, it's definitely quite the twist that foreshadows what is to come. The ending leaves me hopeful; but also with more questions.


Overall, I have to give this book 4.5 stars. I wanted to give it 5; but I couldn't get past the slight shift in Annalisse's behavior (even prior to the news she receives). She frustrated me and I couldn't feel for her like I wanted to. She lowers herself to the same level as Kate's children, causing a slight loss of respect.

I received a complimentary copy for reviewing purposes. All opinions are my own.

[Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you in advance to Prism Book Tours and the author, Marlene M. Bell, for sending me a complimentary copy to review. All words are my own in this review and a positive review was not required.

To start off – as lately I have been reading and reviewing mostly “Christian” and “clean” reads – this is not a “Christian” read; at least it is not defined as one. It is also not a “clean” read per se as there is some “sex” talk, and mention of a prior sex act.

With regard to language, there is mild profanity in this book with vulgar insults used for both men and women. The “F” word is absent so the language leans more to PG-13.

There are some mentions of drug addiction and infidelity. While I am mostly steering away from such reads in general – it didn’t bother me as I’ve read far worse in the past.

This book has a “film noir” feel to it. It was a page-turning read that I found was difficult to put down at times.

The cover is simple, somewhat like the covers of the “Twilight” saga – and most of us know what kind of an impact those books had. Thus – “never judge a book by the cover”.

While this book could survive as a standalone read, and the events of the previous novel are mentioned in this one to refresh or introduce a new reader – it might be a good idea to read the first novel “Stolen Obsession” anyway.

In this novel, the reader sees Annalisse attempting to figure out her relationship with Alec, especially after the events in the previous novel.

The book starts off with the discovery of a corpse in a barn at her aunt’s farm. After the discovery, Annalisse’s Aunt Kate goes missing. From there, the adventure and mystery element doesn’t stop. Murder, kidnapping, extortion, diabolical family members – this has all the elements of a thriller/suspense novel, with a slight dash of romance thrown in.

There is even a minor “competing” love interest, in the way of an Australian whose amusing use of Aussie slang, makes this quite an interesting read.

The writer has a realistic, graphic and vivid writing style. So much so that I could see the action taking place as if I was watching a movie.

The end was shocking and not what I was expecting or anticipating. It definitely tied in with the story.

There was enough about the previous book’s events in this one that made me curious enough to eventually read it in the future. I will also keep a lookout for Calico Raven, the third installment.

There are a few technical issues, as with any fictional story.

One was Alec’s rental car was being passed from person to person in it. As a proud and frequent Enterprise member, my contract stipulates only the people on the contract can drive it. I don’t know if that is true for ALL rental car companies, or if it varies by state though.

Also, in a review for this book, someone corrected the use of the author’s use of BEAMER (BMW) to BEEMER. And, I’ll admit, I thought it was “BEEMER” as well.

However, in my research (for this review) – the author, reviewer, and I were all wrong.

It is, according to BMW’s website (https://www.bmw.com/en/automotive-lif... October 2019) BIMMER for a BMW car and BEAMER/BEEMER for the BMW motorcycle. So, I did manage to learn something from that.

Those mistakes didn’t inhibit the reading or my enjoyment of the storyline.

This was a hard one to rate, but overall – four (4) stars.

[Jo Dervan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Annalisse was a 30 year old woman working at a NYC art gallery where she met the owner’s wealthy veterinarian son, Alec. They dated seriously and while on vacation with his family on a yacht in Europe, his Dad was killed.

So Alec was forced to take over the running of his father’s sports car company. This left little time for a relationship and Annalisse decided to break off from Alec. So she drove up for a weekend to the farm where her Aunt Kate had raised her after the girl’s parents died tragically.

Shortly after Annalisse arrived, Ethan, the hired hand from New Zealand, discovered the dead body of a stranger in the barn. While the police investigated the death, Annalisse and Kate decided to stay at Alec’s estate nearby. Kate seemed very upset by the dead body and wanted time alone to calm down. So she went to the horse barn alone and could not be found an hour later.

The rest of the book deals with Annalisse and Alec’s search for Kate with the help of a private investigator.

This is the second in a trilogy and some important events from the first book were mentioned but never explained. There were also a couple questions (e.g how Ethan appeared at the farm exactly when Kate needed him? What was the secret that Alec’s ex wife swore to keep secret? ) that were never answered in the book. I am guessing all will be explained in the third book.

I was intrigued by the descriptions this book as having a female detective. It did not. Annalisse was helpful to the investigator that Alec hired but not the solver of the mysteries in the story.

I received this ARC from Edelweiss and the publisher and in return for an honest review

[Christine Kempton · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book for an honest review. This is the second book in this series featuring Annalisse. This is a fantastic follow up to the first book - Stolen Obssession. It picks up a few months after the conclusion of the previous book. This book was another page turner as you go through what happened to Aunt Kate and what secrets are left to be told. Annalisse and Alec continue to work through their relationship in the world they live in with Alec's father now gone and Alec and the helm of the company. It was a well paced book that I enjoyed. I am looking very forward to the next book in the series!

[Lesa · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story and writing aren't bad and I mostly enjoyed reading this one. My one complaint: the author needs to learn how to reference events from previous books in way that is engaging to the reader. Every time a prior event was referenced in this book -- and there were a LOT of them -- I felt like I was at my boyfriend's work holiday party, where I don't know anyone that everyone is talking about.

[Truly Trendy PR]

Spent Identity is the second book in the Annalisse Series by Marlene M. Bell. A romantic suspense that pulls you in from the beginning with of unexpected twists and turns. The characters are well-written and have creative backstories. Spent Identity is the kind of story that grabs your attention with mystery and intrigue that will leave you wanting more. **I received a complimentary copy from RABT Book Tours and the author in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.**

[Annarella · Rating 4 out of 5]

A gripping and entertaining read. I liked the solid mystery that kept me guessing, the well thought cast of characters and the setting.
Even if it's the second in a series I had no issues with the characters or the plot.
I will surely read other books in this series.
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.

[Jackie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I won this in a goodreads giveaway. It’s a decent book. I wish I’d read the first one first but this second one is very good. Thank you for the autograph!

[Joy · Rating 5 out of 5]

MY THOUGHTS ON THIS BOOK
#iReadBookTours

Spent Identity is book 2 in the Annalisse Series by Marlene M. Bell. Annalisse is at it again as she makes a trip from the big city to the farm, where things are cozier, and she liked spending time with her aunt. But this time around, Annalisse is shocked that a dead body turns up in her aunts barn. Who could it be and who is responsible for the murder of this person. Annalisse was also shocked to find that her aunt’s son is selling the farm. But how can that be? What is the story behind selling the farm and who is this person in their barn.

Join the journey as Annalisse, again finds herself wrapped up in another murder case, and trying to find out how to keep her aunts farm. But then when her aunt went missing, this was the main case for Annalisse. What on earth was happening? As each issue hit Kate head on, I think her attitude and the way she dealt with each of these things was admirable, and I so much enjoyed tagging along with she and to find out the guilty one.

I couldn’t put this fast pace Murder mystery/suspense/thriller down once I started reading it. The plot is so intense, and with the twists and turns throughout the book it’s difficult to figure out who is responsible for everything going on, so I had to read on to see who the bad person was. I’m giving Spent Identy Four Stars. If you enjoy sudpense/thrillers and a little mystery added in, you don’t want to miss this one! I’m giving Spent Identity Five Stars! Such a.good read

A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

[BooksCoffee · Rating 5 out of 5]

This winning second installment in the Annalisse Series from Bell trails Annalisse Drury, 30-year-old antiquities expert who arrives at her childhood home and gets entangled into a murder investigation while her aunt goes missing.

Trying to get away from the miseries of her dwindling relationship with the business tycoon Alec Zavos, Annalisse Drury arrives at the family ranch to see Aunt Kate. After the body of a stranger turns up strangled to death in the barn, the police presence forces the women to seek shelter at Alec’s nearby estate in Catskills. But when Kate goes missing at the estate, the resulting investigation draws a few too many connections to the past secrets and soon past and the present lives begin to collide.

Bell makes good use of local rural color (the pleasant atmosphere of the Walker farm lingers long after readers finish the book) and infuses this charming, swiftly paced mystery with intelligent, unexpected twists. She skillfully imbues Annalisse and Alec’s delicious romance into the storyline without ever losing track of her plot or slowing the pace.

For all the thrilling pleasures of the mystery plot, which includes murder, disappearance, old secrets, and lies, it's Bell’s characters (key as well as minor), who are standouts: Bell has created an appealing, relatable lead in Annalisse; Kate with her spunkiness is easy to root for, and the readers will hope to see more of her in the upcoming installments.

Fans of well-constructed cozy mysteries will hungrily devour this sophisticated, clever crime novel.

A complete page-turner.

[pawsreadrepeat · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you Marlene M Bell and iRead Book Tours. I'm excited to be a part of this tour.

Spent Identity is the second in the Annalisse Series. The book begins with her aunt missing. To find her, Annalissa must uncover secrets of the past. Unfortunately lies and deceit run deep through the heart of the town. What I like about this series is that each book can be read as a standalone.
In this installment, Annalissa is on her way to the family farm, where she grew up and the aunt who raised her. Upon arrival, there is a dead body, a family member making threats, and her aunt missing.

The author continues to do an excellent job of creating mystery and suspense with a solid foundation. Full of twists and turns, this book kept me engaged and on the edge of my seat from start to finish. Bell’s description are spot on and I love the back drop of the Catskill Mountains in upper NY. I’ve never been but I feel like I’d recognize it.

This series continues to combine two of my favorite tropes (mystery and romance). The chemistry between Annalissa and Alec is palpable. Unresolved feelings always make for a delightful read.

I’m hooked on this series and looking forward to book 3!