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Debbie Bradley Crime Mysteries #2
The Poison Dart
The ripple effects of an overdose send shock waves through a community. A sweeping drug bust upends lives, exposing the cartel's deep reach into the Midwest. A quest for a better life threatens to destroy a family. As Debbie Bradley digs deeper into each story, startling connections emerge. When fates collide, who will survive?
314 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 1, 2024
31 people are currently reading
1906 people want to read
About the author
Geri Dreiling
3 books94 followersI'm an award-winning journalist as well as a lawyer and professor. I'm an avid runner and a decent gardener in my free time. My two kids are now all grown up and doing amazing things. I live in St. Louis with my husband and our lovably complicated rescue Schnoodle, Charlie.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
February 8, 2025
This is a good read from an independent author. It's always nice to have a chance to support writers who invest so much of themselves into a book, without the support of a publishing house.
The novel took off about a third of the way through, and strongly held my interest until the end. In fact, I read over 250 pages in one afternoon! The plot is believable and gripping, characters are well described and for the most part, highly relatable.
Speaking of the end…it was fabulous. I absolutely love the way Geri Dreiling brought the story to a close (and that's all I’ll say to avoid spoilers).
Just a couple of reasons for 4 stars versus 5: There's some character confusion early on. A number of characters appear within just a few chapters and it's challenging to keep them all straight, (especially because several have names beginning with the same letter). I found myself turning back to the first few pages to clarify the who's who. I haven’t read the prior installment in this series, and perhaps that would have helped.
Secondly, I'm not a fan of excessive foul language and there is a fair amount in this story. Given that the plot involves addicts and a drug cartel, it's understandable, but for me, it does detract a bit from the reading experience.
All in all, Geri is a great writer and I'm looking forward to reading another of her novels.
The novel took off about a third of the way through, and strongly held my interest until the end. In fact, I read over 250 pages in one afternoon! The plot is believable and gripping, characters are well described and for the most part, highly relatable.
Speaking of the end…it was fabulous. I absolutely love the way Geri Dreiling brought the story to a close (and that's all I’ll say to avoid spoilers).
Just a couple of reasons for 4 stars versus 5: There's some character confusion early on. A number of characters appear within just a few chapters and it's challenging to keep them all straight, (especially because several have names beginning with the same letter). I found myself turning back to the first few pages to clarify the who's who. I haven’t read the prior installment in this series, and perhaps that would have helped.
Secondly, I'm not a fan of excessive foul language and there is a fair amount in this story. Given that the plot involves addicts and a drug cartel, it's understandable, but for me, it does detract a bit from the reading experience.
All in all, Geri is a great writer and I'm looking forward to reading another of her novels.
March 1, 2024
The Poison Dart: A Debbie Bradley Mystery” by award-winning author Geri Dreiling, is book two in the Debbie Bradley Crime Mysteries series and an intriguing crime thriller that hits all the buttons. The compelling plot catches you up right away. An overdose death lights the fuse that leads to mystery and Debbie Bradley, who investigates the deeply shocking death. The citizens are rocked, but Bradley gets herself in so deep she may not find her way out. A drug cartel and a drug bust underpin this taut, suspenseful novel, leading to surprising revelations about how far-reaching its tentacles are. It affects lives and families in ways that are destructive and sometimes irreversible. One family tries to rise above it, but it feels like a losing battle. Bradley has her hands full trying to get to the bottom of the mystery, discovering disturbing connections that make her a target, and it isn’t clear just who will come out of this alive.
Dreiling’s style of writing and solid execution take this familiar genre to another level. Her descriptive writing puts you in the center of each scene, as if you’re there in the room. Her skill at building characters and settings with rich detail brings this story realism. You become so invested in the characters that you feel as if you know them personally and have to see how things turn out for them. This is an author you can trust to ground your mystery journey in realism and a level of excitement and gravitas that will have you craving more. The plot is different and satisfying….and very human given most of us know someone touched by drugs and addiction…with a fitting conclusion. Debbie is the kind of journalist, sleuth, and advocate you want in your corner. She is determined and resourceful and has dealt with challenges. The other characters are interesting too, including Chase Laclede and Detective Flannery. I believe readers will be thoroughly entertained, maybe even touched, and informed about drug-related matters that go on in the shadows and under our noses.
This passage is a sample of what lies in store for the reader:
Freedom was J.R.’s sole passenger. Last night, cloaked in darkness, freedom had stroked his cheek lovingly. Today, driving down the highway midafternoon, she belligerently tried to wrest the steering wheel from him. Forget Debbie Bradley, she urged. Canada is where we should go. But forgetting Debbie meant abandoning them. As long as they were prisoners of the cartel, so was he.
If you like appealing characters who don’t give up, don’t miss “The Poison Dart: A Debbie Bradley Mystery” by Geri Dreiling. It’s a superb hit.
Dreiling’s style of writing and solid execution take this familiar genre to another level. Her descriptive writing puts you in the center of each scene, as if you’re there in the room. Her skill at building characters and settings with rich detail brings this story realism. You become so invested in the characters that you feel as if you know them personally and have to see how things turn out for them. This is an author you can trust to ground your mystery journey in realism and a level of excitement and gravitas that will have you craving more. The plot is different and satisfying….and very human given most of us know someone touched by drugs and addiction…with a fitting conclusion. Debbie is the kind of journalist, sleuth, and advocate you want in your corner. She is determined and resourceful and has dealt with challenges. The other characters are interesting too, including Chase Laclede and Detective Flannery. I believe readers will be thoroughly entertained, maybe even touched, and informed about drug-related matters that go on in the shadows and under our noses.
This passage is a sample of what lies in store for the reader:
Freedom was J.R.’s sole passenger. Last night, cloaked in darkness, freedom had stroked his cheek lovingly. Today, driving down the highway midafternoon, she belligerently tried to wrest the steering wheel from him. Forget Debbie Bradley, she urged. Canada is where we should go. But forgetting Debbie meant abandoning them. As long as they were prisoners of the cartel, so was he.
If you like appealing characters who don’t give up, don’t miss “The Poison Dart: A Debbie Bradley Mystery” by Geri Dreiling. It’s a superb hit.
March 15, 2024
In the second installment of the Debbie Bradley Crime Mysteries, "The Poison Dart," Geri L. Dreiling presents a gripping and timely narrative that delves into the devastating epidemic of drug addiction. Through the lens of determined reporter Debbie Bradley, the novel exposes the intricate web of cartels, illicit substances, and the personal toll addiction takes on individuals and their loved ones. Fueled by her background in law and journalism,
Dreiling skillfully crafts Debbie Bradley as a relatable and tenacious protagonist.
The author's intimate knowledge of the justice system and investigative reporting lends authenticity to the intricate plot, where addiction's destructive effects are laid bare. "The Poison Dart" stands as a testament to Dreiling's exceptional storytelling abilities. Her meticulous attention to detail and talent for weaving intricate plot threads keeps readers captivated from start to finish.
The novel effortlessly blends elements of crime, suspense, and social commentary, making it a compelling and thought-provoking read. With its relatable characters, gripping plot, and exploration of a crucial societal issue, "The Poison Dart" is a must-read for fans of crime fiction and those seeking insights into the complexities of addiction. Dreiling's masterful writing leaves readers eager to delve into her future works and witness Debbie Bradley's continued pursuit of justice.
Dreiling skillfully crafts Debbie Bradley as a relatable and tenacious protagonist.
The author's intimate knowledge of the justice system and investigative reporting lends authenticity to the intricate plot, where addiction's destructive effects are laid bare. "The Poison Dart" stands as a testament to Dreiling's exceptional storytelling abilities. Her meticulous attention to detail and talent for weaving intricate plot threads keeps readers captivated from start to finish.
The novel effortlessly blends elements of crime, suspense, and social commentary, making it a compelling and thought-provoking read. With its relatable characters, gripping plot, and exploration of a crucial societal issue, "The Poison Dart" is a must-read for fans of crime fiction and those seeking insights into the complexities of addiction. Dreiling's masterful writing leaves readers eager to delve into her future works and witness Debbie Bradley's continued pursuit of justice.
January 23, 2024
This novel follows the story of Journalist Debbie Bradley, who in this opportunity finds herself investigating an overdose death. What she doesn´t know is that she's getting into the crosshairs of one of the most dangerous crime organizations in the Midwest.
I do recommend reading first "Crime Beat Girl", the first delivery of the Debbie Bradley Crime Mysteries, as it gives more context and information about her traumas and personality. Both are medium-sized stories, interesting from page one for people who enjoy suspense and mystery novels.
Overall, a great book. I enjoyed this book even more than the previous one, the author excelled and improved her way of writing. I'll be waiting for the next one!
I do recommend reading first "Crime Beat Girl", the first delivery of the Debbie Bradley Crime Mysteries, as it gives more context and information about her traumas and personality. Both are medium-sized stories, interesting from page one for people who enjoy suspense and mystery novels.
Overall, a great book. I enjoyed this book even more than the previous one, the author excelled and improved her way of writing. I'll be waiting for the next one!
January 26, 2024
I'm obsessed with crime mysteries books and The Poison Dart by Geri Dreiling is a great second installment in the Debbie Bradley series. This novel was so hard to read for me because it is full of reality and sometimes, reading books about topics that we see daily is cruel, but this book is not just that. It has a narrative that captures the devastating impact of a drug overdose and the subsequent drug bust that reveals the deep roots of a cartel in a Midwest community. Through the protagonist, Debbie Bradley, the authors explore the complex connections between various characters affected by the drug trade, from those seeking a better life to those caught in the crossfire of criminal activities.
I believe the stroger thing about this book is that the storytelling is rich and engaging, offering a blend of suspense and a plot development that kept me on the edge of my seats. I highly recommend this one, seeing all the complexities of crime, justice, and the human condition, make us more empathic to this issue.
I believe the stroger thing about this book is that the storytelling is rich and engaging, offering a blend of suspense and a plot development that kept me on the edge of my seats. I highly recommend this one, seeing all the complexities of crime, justice, and the human condition, make us more empathic to this issue.
January 7, 2024
Journalist Debbie Bradley may dislike the “Crime Beat Girl” moniker, but it’s forever associated with the story of murder and corruption that launched her on the national stage. Her grateful publisher rewards Debbie with a podcast to go with her regular magazine column, then tips her off to a new story, one that will test both her discretion and determination. The son of a wealthy St. Louis family is dead from an overdose, but will she be allowed to investigate and tell his tragic story without interference? Or must she fall back on the compelling if impersonal tale of the city’s heroin and fentanyl crisis?
J.R. could tell her that story. Enslaved by a vicious and powerful cartel, he batches these lethal drugs for sale. If he refuses, if he puts one toe out of line, he may never see his wife and daughter ever again. For they too are in the cartel’s clutches.
At turns moving and shocking, The Poison Dart weaves a tale of addiction, lies and brutality that is all too close to home. As these worlds collide and danger mounts, no-one knows who to trust. Only one thing is certain: Debbie Bradley will be at the heart of it.
I enjoyed Crime Beat Girl, but loved Poison Dart so much more. The writing is tight and compelling, and the characters absorbing. This is an excellent sequel, that promises great things for the series!
J.R. could tell her that story. Enslaved by a vicious and powerful cartel, he batches these lethal drugs for sale. If he refuses, if he puts one toe out of line, he may never see his wife and daughter ever again. For they too are in the cartel’s clutches.
At turns moving and shocking, The Poison Dart weaves a tale of addiction, lies and brutality that is all too close to home. As these worlds collide and danger mounts, no-one knows who to trust. Only one thing is certain: Debbie Bradley will be at the heart of it.
I enjoyed Crime Beat Girl, but loved Poison Dart so much more. The writing is tight and compelling, and the characters absorbing. This is an excellent sequel, that promises great things for the series!
January 17, 2024
The fierce, determined, and resilient Debbie Bradley is back for more in this second installment of the Debbie Bradley Crime Mysteries series. “The Poison Dart” begins in a sadly relatable endemic, drug addiction. When son of prominent St. Louis real estate family, Caleb Webb, passes away from a heroin and fentanyl overdose reporter Debbie Bradley picks up the story.
Crafting Debbie Bradley with hints of her own background, author Geri L. Dreiling brings to the page a wealth of experience as both a lawyer and journalist herself. “The Poison Dart” brings with it the tangled web of the cartel, drugs, and those who fall prey to their product. Addiction doesn’t discriminate between rich and poor as Dreiling crafts an all to realistic fall into heroin and the conflicted suffering family and friends of addicts live with.
Like the poison dart frog, drugs have a toxic effect not only on the body, but on families and relationships too. The jump from painkillers to heroin is a familiar tale as Debbie Bradley slowly unravels the story within. Never one to shy away from danger, the characters, confessions, and breadcrumbs once again seem to follow her home.
“The Poison Dart” reads successfully as a standalone, providing enough back story and recap of Debbie’s highlights to ensure readers can jump right in on book two. But fans of book one, “Crime Beat Girl,” will recognize the history between several of the supporting characters contained in these pages. From Detective Flannery to Chase Laclede, editor Sam and her own sounding board and lawyer of a mother, Beth, all remain ever present within this second book.
Dreiling successfully intertwines her aptitude for law, reporting, and writing in this riveting read as Debbie Bradley returns to the page to break the story wide open once again. With a talent for plot creation, patiently unwinding the threads of all angles, and never lacking for excitement, Dreiling is an author you will want to read time and time again.
Crafting Debbie Bradley with hints of her own background, author Geri L. Dreiling brings to the page a wealth of experience as both a lawyer and journalist herself. “The Poison Dart” brings with it the tangled web of the cartel, drugs, and those who fall prey to their product. Addiction doesn’t discriminate between rich and poor as Dreiling crafts an all to realistic fall into heroin and the conflicted suffering family and friends of addicts live with.
Like the poison dart frog, drugs have a toxic effect not only on the body, but on families and relationships too. The jump from painkillers to heroin is a familiar tale as Debbie Bradley slowly unravels the story within. Never one to shy away from danger, the characters, confessions, and breadcrumbs once again seem to follow her home.
“The Poison Dart” reads successfully as a standalone, providing enough back story and recap of Debbie’s highlights to ensure readers can jump right in on book two. But fans of book one, “Crime Beat Girl,” will recognize the history between several of the supporting characters contained in these pages. From Detective Flannery to Chase Laclede, editor Sam and her own sounding board and lawyer of a mother, Beth, all remain ever present within this second book.
Dreiling successfully intertwines her aptitude for law, reporting, and writing in this riveting read as Debbie Bradley returns to the page to break the story wide open once again. With a talent for plot creation, patiently unwinding the threads of all angles, and never lacking for excitement, Dreiling is an author you will want to read time and time again.
February 27, 2025
Crime reporter Debbie Bradley investigates a high-profile overdose and confronts the shadowy world of drug dealers. Several elements set this novel apart from other books in the genre. The novel is set in St. Louis , an unexpected place to find cartels which deal in drugs and human trafficking. Another unusual feature is the strong female protagonist, a dedicated journalist, who has a dynamic bond with her mother, a successful attorney. Though both women have romantic interests, they prioritize their relationship and their careers. Indeed, the author's background in journalism and law enriches the intelligent dialogue and adds layers of authenticity to the storyline. Finally, this narrative is not so much about heroes and villains, as culprits and victims. The main characters belong to the upper-middle class, lawyers, accountants, real estate developers and journalists. But the wealthy community of college educated professionals is not immune to the tragedy of addiction, and the author explores the wrong turns that can derail a promising life. All the main characters are well-rounded and even the culprits have extended backstories. The author delves into the economic hardship that lures mules to transport the drugs, and the human trafficking that has trapped illegal aliens into processing the substances. The contrast of advantaged and disadvantaged creates a rich tapestry and a skillfully woven plot. There is no need for gratuitous violence, or sensational twists, the suspense evolves organically from realistic human interactions. The Poison Dart is a compelling read that provides an insightful look at the opioid crisis disrupting the fabric of modern society.
January 26, 2024
This read has an incredible narrative that deepens into the horrific realities of drug addiction and cartel violence. It was so moving and difficult to read because of its realm and hard background. The story follows Debbie Bradley, a journalist dubbed the "Crime Beat Girl," as she investigates the overdose death of a wealthy St. Louis family's son. The author's writing skills can be seen throughout the book; how she mixes this personal tragedy with the broader, brutal context of the Midwest's heroin and fentanyl crisis. The character of J.R., trapped in the clutches of a vicious cartel and forced to produce lethal drugs, adds a deeply emotional and distressing dimension to the story. I think this book is something else; the author's writing, the dramatic history, the toughness in the topic of drug abuse and cartel violence are amazing. I was so engaged with the unexpected plot twists and rich character development that with no doubt, I recommend you to read it.
January 27, 2024
This is a very recommended crime book.
"The Poison Dart: A Debbie Bradley Mystery" by Geri Dreilong is a gripping exploration of the far-reaching consequences of an overdose and a relentless drug bust. Dreilong weaves a complex narrative, unveiling the intricate web of the cartel's influence in the Midwest. As Debbie Bradley delves into the lives impacted by these events, the connections she unravels are nothing short of startling. The tension rises as quests for a better life clash with the looming threat of family destruction. In this compelling mystery, Dreilong keeps readers on the edge of their seats, skillfully navigating through a world where survival hangs in the balance. This is a very recommended crime book.
"The Poison Dart: A Debbie Bradley Mystery" by Geri Dreilong is a gripping exploration of the far-reaching consequences of an overdose and a relentless drug bust. Dreilong weaves a complex narrative, unveiling the intricate web of the cartel's influence in the Midwest. As Debbie Bradley delves into the lives impacted by these events, the connections she unravels are nothing short of startling. The tension rises as quests for a better life clash with the looming threat of family destruction. In this compelling mystery, Dreilong keeps readers on the edge of their seats, skillfully navigating through a world where survival hangs in the balance. This is a very recommended crime book.
January 24, 2024
One interesting fact about this crime thriller is that Dreiling relies more on intelligent conversations, on the proper and strategic use of lies, and on wordplay instead of the gory scenes that usually accompany these types of books.
The narrative contains the right blend of mystery, crime scenes and action. It is one of those books that keep one glued until the very end.
The author’s writing style is superb, and the general presentation of the story instills a sense of intrigue that invites us to keep flipping pages. The writing is tight and compelling, and the characters absorbing. I loved this second book in the series and I look forward to continuing to enjoy more books!
The narrative contains the right blend of mystery, crime scenes and action. It is one of those books that keep one glued until the very end.
The author’s writing style is superb, and the general presentation of the story instills a sense of intrigue that invites us to keep flipping pages. The writing is tight and compelling, and the characters absorbing. I loved this second book in the series and I look forward to continuing to enjoy more books!
January 26, 2024
Very engaging book
''The Poison Dart: A Debbie Bradley Mystery'' is the second book in the Debbie Bradley Crime Mysteries series. Where drugs, murders, and corruption are the strong points. This book continues the investigation carried out by reporter Debbie Bradley. In this book, she has to find the truth and save her life from organized crime in St. Louis. This story shows the difference between the pain of a family losing a child to drugs and also what is behind that, the drug cartels and politics. This novel is really good and will immerse you from the beginning. I highly recommend starting with the first book so you don't miss anything of this great story.
''The Poison Dart: A Debbie Bradley Mystery'' is the second book in the Debbie Bradley Crime Mysteries series. Where drugs, murders, and corruption are the strong points. This book continues the investigation carried out by reporter Debbie Bradley. In this book, she has to find the truth and save her life from organized crime in St. Louis. This story shows the difference between the pain of a family losing a child to drugs and also what is behind that, the drug cartels and politics. This novel is really good and will immerse you from the beginning. I highly recommend starting with the first book so you don't miss anything of this great story.
January 26, 2024
''The Poison Dart: A Debbie Bradley Mystery'' is the second book in the Debbie Bradley Crime Mysteries series. Where drugs, murders, and corruption are the strong points. This book continues the investigation carried out by reporter Debbie Bradley. In this book, she has to find the truth and save her life from organized crime in St. Louis. This story shows the difference between the pain of a family losing a child to drugs and also what is behind that, the drug cartels and politics. This novel is really good and will immerse you from the beginning. I highly recommend starting with the first book so you don't miss anything of this great story.
January 26, 2024
“Surely, the end of her charmed life was near.”
“The Poison Dart” by Geri Dreilin revolves around the story of a Journalist named Debbie Bradley in the middle of an investigation of a drug overdose story only to cross paths with a dangerous drug ring in her city. Debbie is a great character and the perfect investigative journalist, tenacious and creative. It has an interesting topic and an exciting setting that will keep you reading until the last page. I wish I had read the first book, which I will be doing now, and hopefully, there will be a next book in the series as the story has quite a depth in it, not just some typical mystery novel.
“The Poison Dart” by Geri Dreilin revolves around the story of a Journalist named Debbie Bradley in the middle of an investigation of a drug overdose story only to cross paths with a dangerous drug ring in her city. Debbie is a great character and the perfect investigative journalist, tenacious and creative. It has an interesting topic and an exciting setting that will keep you reading until the last page. I wish I had read the first book, which I will be doing now, and hopefully, there will be a next book in the series as the story has quite a depth in it, not just some typical mystery novel.
January 26, 2024
A book second in a mystery series. Unfortunately, many can relate to the topic in the book. Overdose. A difficult word for many. The Poison Dark is the second in a series written by Geri Dreiling. I love reading mysteries. This one was difficult to read because of the topic. However, I stuck to it, and the story revealed heartbreak, and heartache. I hope people stick with this series. And it's ok if you are unable to read this book because of past difficulties. I hope most people are able to read this book.
June 18, 2024
The Poison Dart by Geri Dreiling
This is a thriller for sure. There are realistic subjects that will make you want to push forward with this one. The author really knows how to keep the reader on the edge. This book has dark tendencies with drug abuse and is written well. I do prefer books in first POV. Yet that didn't mean jack while I read.
I'd be interested to see how this series turns out in the long run.
This is a thriller for sure. There are realistic subjects that will make you want to push forward with this one. The author really knows how to keep the reader on the edge. This book has dark tendencies with drug abuse and is written well. I do prefer books in first POV. Yet that didn't mean jack while I read.
I'd be interested to see how this series turns out in the long run.
September 29, 2025
That being said, it is a decent story that keeps you guessing. Debbie Bradley is a reporter on the crime beat who is determined to get her story. What appears to be a story about a fentanyl laced heroine overdose, takes her deep into cartel territory as she follows her leads to discover the source of the tainted drugs.
Read my full review on my blog: https://writingtoberead.com/2025/07/1...
Read my full review on my blog: https://writingtoberead.com/2025/07/1...
January 27, 2024
The Poison Dart is a wonderful thriller that kept me engaged from the beginning to the end. Each and every character has their own personality and voice. Definitely a page turner!
January 27, 2024
Good Book
I really enjoyed reading this book. One lesson the book will teach you is you do not do drugs and you definitely don't mess with the cartel.
I really enjoyed reading this book. One lesson the book will teach you is you do not do drugs and you definitely don't mess with the cartel.
July 14, 2025
Amazing second book may even be better than the first. I hope there is another in the series it is really hard not to like Debbie!!!
June 12, 2024
This book is the second of a series, but there is enough of a backstory presented with the characters that the reader will soon be engrossed in the story. it is a fast paced, can't put down read, that will have the reader enthralled in the story, as the story elements hit close to home- drug addiction, cartels, family issues, etc. Recommended read for anyone who loves a good mystery.
October 29, 2024
This book took me by surprise. I wasn't expecting how fast this book took off. Good read!
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews