Never Doubt Nadine

by Roger Skrypczak

Phil Bressler, a semi-retired investigative reporter and his wife, Susan Taylor, are celebrating their wedding anniversary with their friends, Judge Ralph, and Tina Loften. The couples were married in a double ceremony the previous December. Phil and Susan met at the Washington Post and were married and divorced when they were much younger. Tina is Ralph's second wife who is decades younger than Ralph. Phil narrates the mystery.

274 pages, Paperback

Published November 6, 2023

Reviews

[Emma Norris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Never Doubt Nadine weaves together the lives of Phil Bressler, Susan Taylor, Judge Ralph, and Tina Loften in a mesmerizing dance of mystery, love, and betrayal. Phil's seasoned instincts as a semi-retired investigative reporter, combined with the complex history he shares with Susan, add layers of depth to their pursuit of truth. As the couple grapples with the complexities of their rekindled relationship, they find themselves deeply entangled in the unsettling mystery of their friends' lives. The portrayal of Judge Ralph and his younger wife, Tina, provides a stark contrast to Phil and Susan's dynamic, adding to the intrigue and emotional tension. The author's skillful narration through Phil's eyes captures the essence of each character's struggles, desires, and secrets, making the story personal and relatable. The emotional resonance of their intertwined fates kept me riveted, reflecting the unpredictable nature of love and the shadows cast by past choices.

[Robert John · Rating 5 out of 5]

What sets this novel apart isn't just its compelling plot but the palpable sense of personality infused within its narrative style – a feat not easily achieved. Moreover, the protagonist's evident adoration for his spouse injects a heartwarming sincerity into the storyline, challenging the often superficial romantic connections depicted elsewhere. Quik read!

[William Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

You might wonder, why should Nadine be trusted implicitly? Is she the hero of the story or the antagonist? The book leaves you curious about Nadine from the get-go.

Nadine's character is something you've got to explore by diving into the book yourself.

The story unfolds through Phil, a semi-retired journalist, who narrates this gripping mystery. Things take a turn when Nadine crashes his anniversary celebration, bringing along connections to Phil's best buddy, Ralph's, past and an urgent plea for help. Despite the reluctance of their spouses, Phil and Ralph find themselves drawn into Nadine's world for various reasons. The plot thickens as layers of truth unravel, leaving you questioning who to trust.

I was hooked by how the author skillfully entangled various elements, creating suspense and delivering satisfying twists. The cliffhangers keep you on the edge, while the romance between Phil and his wife, Susan, adds a tender dimension to the storyline. If you're a fan of complex characters and mysteries that make you second-guess every turn, this book's for you. The title is just the beginning of an enthralling journey.

[Lucas Matt · Rating 5 out of 5]

At the heart of the tale is Nadine, a mysterious figure wrapped up in a murder case where her own husband is the main suspect. But as Phil digs deeper, he finds himself tangled in a web of lies, secret pasts, and complicated relationships. Skrypczak has a real talent for keeping you guessing, crafting a world where no one can be trusted and everyone has something to hide.

The story is packed with unexpected turns and false leads, making sure you're always on your toes, desperate to piece together the truth. Never Doubt Nadine is a masterful mix of suspense, mystery, and a touch of psychological intrigue. It's clear Skrypczak knows how to tell a gripping story, making this book a great pick for anyone who loves a good mystery that keeps you guessing right to the very end.

[Mia Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story kicks off with an anniversary celebration that quickly spirals into a captivating tale, thanks to the unexpected arrival of the enigmatic Nadine. As the head coach of the University of Wisconsin's basketball team, Nadine's past with the group, especially with Phil, the seasoned reporter, adds layers to the narrative. The chemistry between Ralph and Nadine ignites a series of events that keep you guessing at every turn. The characters, all in their 60s, bring a refreshing depth and maturity to the story, adding to its uniqueness. Solid 5 stars!

[Arthur Henry · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's a total page-turner! Imagine sitting in a cozy diner on a dreary day, getting lost in a killer story - that's the vibe here. It's all about a murder mystery with a side of romance, which, by the way, is totally my jam. And the love the main dude has for his wife? So real and touching. It's not something you find in books that often, and it really added something special. Definitely passing this one on to all my friends. If you're looking for something that's easy to get into but hard to put down, this is it!

[Christin Nord · Rating 5 out of 5]

I recently picked up ""Never Doubt Nadine,"" a gripping crime novel by Roger Skrypczak. The story is told through the eyes of Phil Bressler, a somewhat retired investigative journalist and friend of Judge Ralph Loften. Nadine Marshall comes to Judge Loften for help in proving her husband Lester's innocence in the murder of Doreen Schultz Willis, linked to the influential Schultz Concrete Construction Company.

Skrypczak does an exceptional job of drawing the reader into the mystery and intrigue. The pacing is perfect, keeping you hooked without feeling rushed. I was particularly impressed with how the story is told from Phil's perspective. It gives a unique insight into the other characters and key events, making the complex web of relationships and plot twists easy to follow. Despite the large cast, I never felt lost or overwhelmed.

For someone who loves a good crime story, this book was a delightful find. It's clear, engaging, and well-crafted. I'd recommend it to anyone looking for a new mystery to dive into. You might just find yourself questioning everything you thought you knew about the characters, especially Nadine.

[David Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Narrated by Phil Bressler, a semiretired investigative journalist, the story unwinds in a web of mystery surrounding Lester Marshall's wrongful accusation. With its meticulous pacing and well-crafted intrigue, the novel keeps you guessing at every turn. Skrypczak's adeptness at character development shines through the singular perspective of Bressler, making the vast cast of characters distinct and memorable.

Skrypczak has truly outdone himself with this one.

[Elizabeth Davalos · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first-person narrative gives an intimate look into Phil Bressler's investigative journey, challenging the reader to discern truth from deception. Skrypczak skillfully plays with themes of trust and secrecy, weaving a tale where every character holds their cards close. 5 Stars!

[Lang Quinn · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story centers around Phil and Ralph who get caught up in trying to solve a murder. What I liked most was how real the characters felt. It's like the author really knows how to bring people to life on the page. The plot had its twists and turns which kept things interesting. Overall, a decent book if you're into mysteries.

[Catherine Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Skrypczak's novel is a brilliant blend of mystery and romance, set against a backdrop so vivid, it feels like you're there, in that diner, watching the story unfold on a rainy November day. The narrative's unique tone and style make it a standout read. Plus, the portrayal of genuine love in a marriage adds a refreshing depth. Highly recommend.

[Spencer Jaw · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author masterfully charts a detailed genealogy, connecting past events to the present, enriching the storyline and character development. The introductory snapshot sets the stage perfectly, making you feel like an insider privy to the unfolding drama

[Jennifer Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a compelling tale of love, betrayal, and justice, narrated by Phil Bressler.

The complex relationships between Phil, his ex-wife and current partner Susan, and their friends Judge Ralph and Tina Loften create a rich tapestry of drama and suspense. The story, set against the backdrop of a mysterious crime, delves deep into the nuances of human connections and the lengths one goes to protect loved ones.

It's a thought-provoking and emotionally charged read that beautifully captures the essence of lifelong connections and the shadows of past decisions.

[Julienne Sayers · Rating 5 out of 5]

The narrative, led by Phil Bressler, offers an intriguing look into a web of mysteries and lies, though at times it feels too guided, leaving little for reader interpretation. The noir elements are well-executed, and the suspense is palpable, but the character development could use more depth. Despite this, it's a decent pick for a quick noir fix, with enough twists to keep you turning pages.

[Michelle Steffen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very much enjoyed Never Doubt Nadine be Roger Skrypczak. Living in the area I can picture the characters as described by the narrator, and the towns were all familiar. This one will keep you guessing right up to the end.

[Cristina Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

As we navigate the twisted narratives through Phil Bressler's eyes, every character becomes a puzzle. Skrypczak masterfully crafts a story where trust is a rare commodity, making this a must-read for anyone who loves a good puzzle wrapped in intrigue. A classic noir gem!

[Shalene Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the story of Phil Bressler, a retired investigative reporter who gets pulled into the story he hopes will finally win him the Pulitzer Prize.
Nadine and Lester are a married couple. Lester has a one-night stand and is accused of mud3ring the woman from his affair.
Go on this informative adventure with Phil and his wife Susan while he
investigates the details of this story and all of the players.
Take a chance on this one and see if you can determine who is at the core of this puzzle. Will you doubt Nadine?

[Mary Jackson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book because it felt like I was peeking behind the curtain of a private detective's life. The way it was written brought a lot of humor and made me curious about what would happen next. I liked that the story was told from the writer's point of view because it felt like I was right there, piecing together the clues. The book does a great job of explaining the history of the main character's family, both in the past and present. It starts with a quick look at events before the main story, which really hooked me in. It was like being a secret observer in all the intense moments of the plot.

[Wendy Dell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Couldn't put it down! Never doubt Nadine is intriguing, suspense, and mystery Novel!
Can't wait for Roger's next one!

[Roger · Rating 5 out of 5]

Title: Never Doubt Nadine

Author: Roger Skrypczak

Reviewed by: Pamela Fullerton

Genre: Mystery

Published: November 6, 2023

Length: 274 Pages

Never Doubt Nadine

As a follow up to his earlier novella, fans of Roger Skrypczak will enjoy renewing their acquaintance with several of the major characters in this full length mystery/crime investigation procedural. Phil Bressler, a retired investigative reporter and his wife Susan, become embroiled in an effort to find the evidence that can exonerate Lester Marshall, husband of the title’s “Nadine”. Phil doesn’t always make it look easy, but his investigation of the twisted trails of fact and supposition is satisfying enough for any amateur sleuth. Beside, Bressler’s obvious affection for his newly re-married spouse is fun and almost inspiring.

It’s always interesting to encounter a book written in a different style. It somehow refreshes the palate of those of us who read incessantly, especially if we’re often confined to one genre. Skrypczak’s prose reads almost like a feature story in a newspaper or magazine. That makes the frequent and longing references to the Pulitzer Prize by the main character completely understandable. Although, as engrossed as the reader becomes by the unexpected deaths, their motivations, the detailed investigation and resolution: they might be forgiven for fearing that lofty aspiration to be an elusive Wisconsin winter dream.

One final note; I don’t personally know Nadine but if I did, I too would never doubt her.

Reviewer Pamela Fullerton is PJA Fullerton, author of the critically acclaimed anthology, Red Road Redemption published recently by WWA Press. Her stories are intimate vignettes, sometimes humorous but also realistic glimpses into the lives lived along rural roads. Fullerton has won and placed in numerous writing contests and currently has three new books pending publication. She is a member of WWA and the Chicago Writers Association and several regional writers workshops.

[Emma Charlotte · Rating 5 out of 5]

Never Doubt Nadine is an engrossing narrative that explores the deep intricacies of human relationships, the relentless pursuit of truth, and the enduring power of love. As Phil Bressler, a seasoned investigative reporter, and his wife, Susan Taylor, navigate through the twists and turns of a complex mystery involving their friends, Judge Ralph and Tina Loften, I found myself drawn into their world, reflecting on the nature of human connections and the shadows of the past.

The character development is profound, with each character presenting a unique perspective on life, love, and justice. Phil's narration provides a personal and intimate touch, making the story not only a mystery to solve but also a journey through the human psyche. His relationship with Susan is a testament to the complexities and the enduring nature of love, showcasing how past loves and experiences shape us. The contrast of their strong bond with the seemingly fragile relationship of Ralph and Tina adds a layer of depth and intrigue.

As the plot unfolds, revealing layers of betrayal, greed, and redemption, I was particularly moved by the moral dilemmas faced by the characters. The quest for justice in a world filled with moral ambiguity is a powerful theme that resonates throughout the story. The author brilliantly captures the essence of human frailty and the quest for redemption, making me ponder the true meaning of justice and morality.

The emotional depth of the story is further amplified by the vivid and engaging writing style. The author's ability to create a palpable atmosphere and evoke strong emotions is commendable. I felt every twist in my gut and every revelation in my heart, riding the emotional rollercoaster alongside the characters. The suspense is masterfully maintained throughout the book, keeping me hooked and invested in the outcome.

[Elliott Fowler · Rating 4 out of 5]

In Never Doubt Nadine, the author takes readers on an emotional odyssey through the eyes of Phil Bressler, whose life is as enigmatic as the cases he investigates. Reuniting with his ex-wife and colleague Susan Taylor, they dive into a harrowing mystery involving their closest friends, uncovering truths that challenge their perceptions of justice and morality. The narrative is a masterful blend of suspense and deep emotional exploration, highlighting the enduring complexities of love and the haunting persistence of the past.

Judge Ralph and Tina Loften's peculiar relationship adds an intriguing layer to the plot, juxtaposing the stability and maturity of Phil and Susan's renewed bond. The author's intricate storytelling and character development invite readers to ponder the profound connections between our deepest fears, desires, and the choices we make. As the mystery unravels, so do the characters, revealing their vulnerabilities and strengths in a tale that is as much about self-discovery as it is about solving a crime. This book left me contemplating the intricate web of human emotions and the lengths we go to protect those we love.

[Christine DeSmet · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s always a pleasure to read an author’s first novel. The protagonist is investigative reporter Phil Bressler, a confident, thoughtful and often-times amusing journalist at the pinnacle of his career and staring at retirement—if only multiple murders hadn’t happened, teasing him back into action. Phil lives in Portage, Wisconsin after stints in other places including Washington, D.C. The author has done a solid job of bringing to life a set of characters from the courts, law enforcement, and life in general in Wisconsin. This is authentic material, with court and police and journalism ethics and procedures given their due, all of which makes this first novel laudable. A tone of immediacy throughout gives the novel an excellent pace. Phil’s wife, Susan, also a former reporter, offers the right kind of restraint, wisdom, and love throughout and ultimately joins her husband in the investigation. Sweet relationships within Phil’s family and friendships create a fun counterpoint to the murders. Unfortunately, although the book lists several editors involved, punctuation mistakes throughout may bother some readers. Still, give this debut book and new author a chance.

[Tailor Ruth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Never Doubt Nadine by Roger Skrypczak is an absolute page-turner! Told through the eyes of Phil Bressler, a semi-retired investigative journalist, the novel dives into a dark and thrilling murder mystery. Nadine, the mysterious lady at the heart of the story, is tangled in a murder case with her own husband as the lead suspect. But as Phil digs deeper, he finds a tangle of lies, secrets, and complex relationships.

Skrypczak has a knack for keeping readers on their toes, crafting a story filled with twists, turns, and surprises. It's hard to know who to trust as the narrative unfolds, with every character seeming to hide their true intentions. The book is a fantastic mix of suspense, mystery, and a bit of psychological intrigue, all coming together to create a story that's both engaging and thought-provoking.

For anyone who loves a good thriller that keeps you guessing till the last page, Never Doubt Nadine is a brilliant choice. Roger Skrypczak's talent for storytelling shines through, making it a compelling read for mystery enthusiasts.

[John Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's the tale of Phil Bressler, once a dogged investigative journalist now enjoying retirement. Yet, fate has a different plan. A story lands in his lap, one that's not only intriguing but could potentially land him the prestigious Pulitzer Prize he's always yearned for.

The drama unfolds around Nadine and Lester, a seemingly average couple thrown into turmoil by Lester's fleeting indiscretion. However, the aftermath is anything but ordinary as Lester finds himself entangled in a murder accusation of the very woman he had a fling with. The plot thickens, drawing Phil and his wife Susan into a web of mystery and suspense.

As Phil digs deeper, the reader is taken on a journey through the labyrinth of lies, secrets, and betrayals. The characters are richly developed, each with their own hidden motives and secrets. The question that keeps you hooked: Can you trust Nadine?

[Thomas andrew · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Roger Skrypczak's novel Never Doubt Nadine, readers dive into a compelling tale full of twists and turns. The story is told from the perspective of Phil Bressler, a daring investigative reporter who dives deep into mysteries others fear to touch.

The book constantly keeps you guessing about the characters' true intentions. Is Nadine as innocent as she appears? Can we trust what Ralph says? And is our narrator, Phil, showing us the real picture or is he too colored by his own past? Skrypczak masterfully weaves a narrative where trust is rare, and every clue might be a trick to lead you astray.

For anyone who loves the dark, gripping style of classic noir, this book is a must-read. It's engaging, fast-paced, and keeps you on your toes till the very last page. Skrypczak has crafted a world where every character has their secrets, and it's up to you to piece together the truth.

[Brooke Riley · Rating 5 out of 5]

The novel starts on a light note with a double wedding anniversary but quickly dives into a complex narrative filled with intrigue and passion. What sets this book apart is the maturity of its characters. Being in their 60s, they bring a wealth of life experiences into their interactions, making the story resonate on a deeper level. The romantic twists are well-crafted, and the mystery element keeps you hooked till the last page. Skrypczak's writing style is engaging, making it a perfect weekend read for those who love a good mix of romance and mystery.

[Charles John · Rating 5 out of 5]

The blend of suspense and humor is balanced perfectly, ensuring that the narrative is both gripping and enjoyable. The detailed exploration of the protagonist's background and the events that led to the current situation add layers of depth to the story, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of the character's motivations and actions. This book is a standout for its ability to immerse readers in the investigative process while maintaining a light-hearted tone.

[Mary Behan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fun read. The cast of characters is large, but you get to know them so well that if they walked into your local diner, you’d recognize them immediately. There’s a comforting authenticity in the writing, and you learn a lot about investigative reporting, and the ins and outs of local policing in Wisconsin. The pace is excellent with tension maintained to the very end.

[Landen Acosta · Rating 5 out of 5]

The whole setup with Nadine trying to clear her husband with the help of a judge is unique and keeps you hooked. Roger Skrypczak has a way with words and pacing – never too fast to lose you but always enough to keep the pages turning. The way he introduces and develops characters is top-notch. If you’re into crime stories that don't just entertain but also make you think, this one's for you.