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For No Apparent Reason
A focused law student, romance has been absent from Madison’s life. She has successfully planned each phase of her life and resigned to the fact that there will be plenty of time for love after she passes the bar exam—that is, until the single act of seeking shelter from a spring downpour dramatically alters the course of her life. Madison is lured away from the security of law school into a world where she learns about the destructive nature of greed. Thrust in a maze of money laundering and murder, Madison experiences the value of true friendship and witnesses the healing power of love.
320 pages, Paperback
First published October 10, 2013
1 person is currently reading
2056 people want to read
About the author
S.K. Derban
6 books205 followersBorn in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, S.K. Derban moved to London within the first three months, and remained in England until the age of five. Her father, an American citizen, was a decorated veteran of the second world war. Derban's mother, born and raised in the United Kingdom, was involved with the London Royal Ballet Company, and a great fan of the arts. Even after returning to the United States, Derban's life was filled with a love of the theatre and a passion for British murder mysteries.
S.K. Derban has always remained passionate about writing, and is thrilled to finally share her work with others. Her personal travel and missionary adventures also help to transport readers virtually across the globe. When writing, Derban relies on all aspects of her life, from her faith in the Lord, to her love and knowledge of the arts.
Special note from S.K. Derban... Be sure and sign up for my author newsletter if you would like to receive book updates. My newsletters are short and to the point. Your email address is safe with me, and I promise not to bombard you! Blessings! S.K. Derban
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S.K. Derban has always remained passionate about writing, and is thrilled to finally share her work with others. Her personal travel and missionary adventures also help to transport readers virtually across the globe. When writing, Derban relies on all aspects of her life, from her faith in the Lord, to her love and knowledge of the arts.
Special note from S.K. Derban... Be sure and sign up for my author newsletter if you would like to receive book updates. My newsletters are short and to the point. Your email address is safe with me, and I promise not to bombard you! Blessings! S.K. Derban
Sign up for my Newsletter here
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
January 8, 2016
Sweet, Dangerous & Captivating! An Excellent Read! I Loved It!
May 19, 2017
For No Apparent Reason by S.K. Derban is a contemporary murder mystery which I really enjoyed. There was a great plotline that drew the reader in from the start - the cosy opening that morphed into the very sinister.
With amateur sleuthing meeting the professional FBI, the reader realised something big was going down. There were warm touches as a romance bubbled alongside the mystery.
God was in control. "When you allow God to be in control, there is no need to worry about tomorrow." It did not always seem like it to the characters, but God always had a plan, we just need to trust Him.
Trust was a theme. When trying to solve a mystery, there is always the question of whom to trust.
There was a wonderful family bond shown in the novel. Sisters supported each other in lieu of a mother.
New friends are always welcome in life. Strangers soon become friends when drawn together by a common bond.
There was the theme of grief. Grief ties in with guilt. We often feel guilty when we begin to smile again following a death.
For No Apparent Reason was a cracking novel that had me engrossed and guessing. A great story with likable characters.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
With amateur sleuthing meeting the professional FBI, the reader realised something big was going down. There were warm touches as a romance bubbled alongside the mystery.
God was in control. "When you allow God to be in control, there is no need to worry about tomorrow." It did not always seem like it to the characters, but God always had a plan, we just need to trust Him.
Trust was a theme. When trying to solve a mystery, there is always the question of whom to trust.
There was a wonderful family bond shown in the novel. Sisters supported each other in lieu of a mother.
New friends are always welcome in life. Strangers soon become friends when drawn together by a common bond.
There was the theme of grief. Grief ties in with guilt. We often feel guilty when we begin to smile again following a death.
For No Apparent Reason was a cracking novel that had me engrossed and guessing. A great story with likable characters.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
July 19, 2016
For No Apparent Reason is the perfect book to throw in the beach bag, although I enjoyed it “on the go” picking it up at every opportunity! The author paused the suspense perfectly between each well written chapter.
I just loved how the cast of characters were brought to life. Madison, a witty young law student, along with several key characters, captivate us on a journey filled with adventure, romance, mystery, and friendship.
SK Derban shows that Adventure, Romance, and Mystery can captivate our attention without compromising a wholesome moral compass.
I have already recommended this book to all my friends! I look forward to new releases from SK Derban!
I just loved how the cast of characters were brought to life. Madison, a witty young law student, along with several key characters, captivate us on a journey filled with adventure, romance, mystery, and friendship.
SK Derban shows that Adventure, Romance, and Mystery can captivate our attention without compromising a wholesome moral compass.
I have already recommended this book to all my friends! I look forward to new releases from SK Derban!
August 12, 2014
"For No Apparent Reason" is a good example of an inspirational mystery - anyone of any age can read and enjoy this story.
Read full review in the 2014 August issue of InD’tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2014 August issue of InD’tale Magazine.
September 5, 2017
For No Apparent Reason by author S.K. Derban is a quirky murder mystery with memorable characters that really brought the story to life. We meet Madison a somewhat nosy college student on a stormy afternoon at the scene of a crime and unbeknownst to her, her life is about to get a bit more interesting.
Madison is a law student who is craving something different in her life. She has a boyfriend she is not in love with and pursuing a career she is not sure she is ready for. Enter a certain hunky mysterious FBI agent and Madison’s life suddenly takes a turn for the unpredictable.
I really liked the banter between Madison and Agent Court Braxton. Their verbal sparring hid the emotional turmoil and deeper feelings they had for each other. You could feel their attraction even though they not only did not kiss, but did not even hold hands till much, much later. The attraction was just there. I liked how close Madison was to her family and that she was such an out of the box character that along with Court we never knew what she would do next. She had a big heart for the victims that they became like family themselves.
This was the second book I have read by author Derban and I am really enjoying her writing style. It is a little bit different.
I received a copy of this book for free from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
Madison is a law student who is craving something different in her life. She has a boyfriend she is not in love with and pursuing a career she is not sure she is ready for. Enter a certain hunky mysterious FBI agent and Madison’s life suddenly takes a turn for the unpredictable.
I really liked the banter between Madison and Agent Court Braxton. Their verbal sparring hid the emotional turmoil and deeper feelings they had for each other. You could feel their attraction even though they not only did not kiss, but did not even hold hands till much, much later. The attraction was just there. I liked how close Madison was to her family and that she was such an out of the box character that along with Court we never knew what she would do next. She had a big heart for the victims that they became like family themselves.
This was the second book I have read by author Derban and I am really enjoying her writing style. It is a little bit different.
I received a copy of this book for free from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
January 19, 2014
This author's book offers a nice blend of real-life situations especially in how the main character finds herself at a crossroads in her young life. She doesn't really seem to realize that she's looking for lasting love--something that couldn't take a front seat in her life anyway when she's thrust in the middle of a murder mystery and events that threaten her safety. But she does meet a hot FBI agent and the chemistry is obvious. I found myself rooting for those two throughout the book. I like the lightness of the mystery and romance, which were a perfect blend. While this book is listed as contemporary women's fiction, I can see it appealing the YA reader. I'd certainly recommend it to my YA family and friends.
August 5, 2016
A good mystery that didn't get too dark with a story of an adventurous young woman looking for her first love. A book that I could recommend to my daughter.
June 23, 2017
The author did a great job of keeping my attention with this book. The plot was intriguing and a bit different than others I have read. The characters were interesting and believable.
One of my favorite characters was probably Court, the FBI agent. He was quite charming and attractive in many ways. He was focused on his job, and although attracted to Madison, didn't let that take precedence over his responsibility to the case. I would have enjoyed however seeing a little more happening between them during the main part of the book. Madison, the main character, was interesting, but often flirted with danger and she lied alot! It was almost like she justified it based on the reasons such as "the end justifies the means" type attitude. I wasn't too impressed with that, but of course, it helped make the story. Otherwise she's not too bad. I think I actually liked her sister Tara, over Madison herself. Her sister had a good head on her shoulders, was solid in her faith and beliefs, and I loved her homemaking abilities and mothering skills.
The story wasn't really graphic, although there were some tense scenes - especially during FBI confrontations and interrogations.There were also a couple of places some language is used. One of the things I did appreciate however, was the way the author dealt with Madison's relationship with her boyfriend who had an underlying anger problem, and remaining pure sexually until marriage. The author expressed values that matched my own.
I think you will enjoy the mystery, intrigue and suspense. The mystery seemed to wrap up before the book was over, so at that point, I kind of wondered what else the author could possibly have to say. But part of the story is the romance taking place and friendships being forged, which we get to watch play out towards the end. Personally, I would have liked to see it all conclude together with maybe some type of epilogue at the end wrapping up the relationship aspect.
I would recommend this book to older teens and those who enjoy mystery and suspense with a hint of romance. I was provided with a free copy of this book courtesy of the author and not required to review positively. All opinions are my own.
One of my favorite characters was probably Court, the FBI agent. He was quite charming and attractive in many ways. He was focused on his job, and although attracted to Madison, didn't let that take precedence over his responsibility to the case. I would have enjoyed however seeing a little more happening between them during the main part of the book. Madison, the main character, was interesting, but often flirted with danger and she lied alot! It was almost like she justified it based on the reasons such as "the end justifies the means" type attitude. I wasn't too impressed with that, but of course, it helped make the story. Otherwise she's not too bad. I think I actually liked her sister Tara, over Madison herself. Her sister had a good head on her shoulders, was solid in her faith and beliefs, and I loved her homemaking abilities and mothering skills.
The story wasn't really graphic, although there were some tense scenes - especially during FBI confrontations and interrogations.There were also a couple of places some language is used. One of the things I did appreciate however, was the way the author dealt with Madison's relationship with her boyfriend who had an underlying anger problem, and remaining pure sexually until marriage. The author expressed values that matched my own.
I think you will enjoy the mystery, intrigue and suspense. The mystery seemed to wrap up before the book was over, so at that point, I kind of wondered what else the author could possibly have to say. But part of the story is the romance taking place and friendships being forged, which we get to watch play out towards the end. Personally, I would have liked to see it all conclude together with maybe some type of epilogue at the end wrapping up the relationship aspect.
I would recommend this book to older teens and those who enjoy mystery and suspense with a hint of romance. I was provided with a free copy of this book courtesy of the author and not required to review positively. All opinions are my own.
June 6, 2017
Since she's been focused on law school, Madison really hasn't had a lot of time for romance. However, when she finds a returned package on the porch of a man accused of killing his wife, her curiosity is piqued. She takes the package, and finds herself compelled to return it to the rightful owner and prove the innocence of Samuel Livingston. Unknowingly, she has caught the eye of FBI Agent Court Braxton in more than one way. From the moment they met, there seemed to be sparks. Will those sparks turn into more? And more importantly, will they be able to prove Livingston's innocence before it's too late?
Full of suspense and romance, this book was amazing! I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. The characters were very relatable, and you will fall in love with each one. I felt as if I was there with the characters as they investigated the case, and I felt their frustrations right along with them. I did not want to put it down. I wanted to know if they'd solve the case, and most importantly what happened to Madison and Court? So if I've got your attention, and you want to find out....go, go get your copy now! You won't be disappointed!
**I received this book free from the author in exchange for a review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Full of suspense and romance, this book was amazing! I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. The characters were very relatable, and you will fall in love with each one. I felt as if I was there with the characters as they investigated the case, and I felt their frustrations right along with them. I did not want to put it down. I wanted to know if they'd solve the case, and most importantly what happened to Madison and Court? So if I've got your attention, and you want to find out....go, go get your copy now! You won't be disappointed!
**I received this book free from the author in exchange for a review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 30, 2017
I'd put this in the Christian Romantic Suspense/mystery category.
The book starts off right away with Madison snooping through the piled papers/mail on the porch where she was taking cover from a rainstorm. It seems like an odd thing to do but Madison has a tendency to stick her nose where it doesn't belong (as you will find out reading the book and the situations she puts herself in to help solve a crime).
Enter Court Braxton, FBI agent. He was just finishing up doing something at the house where Madison took refuge during the storm. Let's just say she caught his eye! Of course she was interfering with his investigation but she didn't know that in the beginning.
Both Madison and Court are very interested in the other person but they are slow in moving towards a date because of the crime that both are trying to solve. I like that Madison is holding out for marriage and isn't afraid to discuss her faith with Court to see where he stands. It was also nice to have this as a minor storyline and let the crime solving be the main focus at least until about 3/4 of the way through...and then the romance could ramp up.
Overall I enjoyed reading this book, the characters were engaging and the mystery was intriguing.
The book starts off right away with Madison snooping through the piled papers/mail on the porch where she was taking cover from a rainstorm. It seems like an odd thing to do but Madison has a tendency to stick her nose where it doesn't belong (as you will find out reading the book and the situations she puts herself in to help solve a crime).
Enter Court Braxton, FBI agent. He was just finishing up doing something at the house where Madison took refuge during the storm. Let's just say she caught his eye! Of course she was interfering with his investigation but she didn't know that in the beginning.
Both Madison and Court are very interested in the other person but they are slow in moving towards a date because of the crime that both are trying to solve. I like that Madison is holding out for marriage and isn't afraid to discuss her faith with Court to see where he stands. It was also nice to have this as a minor storyline and let the crime solving be the main focus at least until about 3/4 of the way through...and then the romance could ramp up.
Overall I enjoyed reading this book, the characters were engaging and the mystery was intriguing.
May 1, 2017
It is captivating, emotional and very funny
Ms. S. K. Derban captivated me again with her second book For No Apparent Reason. I really enjoyed reading this book. It is not only captivating, emotional and very funny as well.
Madison Rae will crack you up not only with her wittiness but how she forgets things too like her gadget. It is also a beautiful book about the love and support of a family.
This book is hard to put it down once you started reading it. It is very suspense. It will blow your mind. A book that handles any FBI involvement is my cup of tea to read. Madison and Court's relationship is like cat and a mouse. They both like to play games though the attraction is undeniable. I loved these two characters.
For No Apparent Reason teaches you to trust you instinct and do everything to help your neighbors. Madison Rae has that character being a student that studies crimes and law. She is one stubborn woman who will never says no while she can help. If you love to read crimes, this book is a must read. I highly recommended it. Prepare to be amazed and fall in-love with Madison Rae and Court.
Ms. S. K. Derban captivated me again with her second book For No Apparent Reason. I really enjoyed reading this book. It is not only captivating, emotional and very funny as well.
Madison Rae will crack you up not only with her wittiness but how she forgets things too like her gadget. It is also a beautiful book about the love and support of a family.
This book is hard to put it down once you started reading it. It is very suspense. It will blow your mind. A book that handles any FBI involvement is my cup of tea to read. Madison and Court's relationship is like cat and a mouse. They both like to play games though the attraction is undeniable. I loved these two characters.
For No Apparent Reason teaches you to trust you instinct and do everything to help your neighbors. Madison Rae has that character being a student that studies crimes and law. She is one stubborn woman who will never says no while she can help. If you love to read crimes, this book is a must read. I highly recommended it. Prepare to be amazed and fall in-love with Madison Rae and Court.
October 9, 2016
SNSBAH Rating: 3.0
~~~~~~~~~~Dee's ★★★ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Investigative detective story in a sort of grown up Nancy Drew tracking down clues to solve a murder mystery. The sleuthing is exciting as missing pieces to the puzzle begin to fall into place. But as the case closes and the bad guys are locked up, the story drags along with boring conversation. The momentum falls flat. Nice, mild, lukewarm story overall with little passion or interest but could certainly use a little spice to improve the flavor.
~~~~~~~~~~Dee's ★★★ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Investigative detective story in a sort of grown up Nancy Drew tracking down clues to solve a murder mystery. The sleuthing is exciting as missing pieces to the puzzle begin to fall into place. But as the case closes and the bad guys are locked up, the story drags along with boring conversation. The momentum falls flat. Nice, mild, lukewarm story overall with little passion or interest but could certainly use a little spice to improve the flavor.
September 8, 2016
I was drawn in and held captive from the prologue all the way through to the end. I fell in love with the main characters. I felt like somehow I knew them as I do my close friends. There was an unexpected purity in the story along with suspense and adventure. I loved it, and I recommend it!
November 18, 2014
This book has the best of a romance novel but done in a wholesome way. That is truly a first; I love having an extra copy that I can give to my mom or any family member and know that there is nothing offensive and it was fun to read!
November 21, 2014
A very enjoyable read that combines mystery, love and humor. It reminds me a little of Robert Parkers books, and I am now looking forward to S.K. Derban's next book. Was that the first book? It was a good one!
November 22, 2014
Sometimes you are moved to share really good finds! For No Apparent Reason is one of those great stories that stands out! SK Derban's tale is clever, suspenseful and suitable for young and old alike! Definitely a must read!!!
sandy Person
sandy Person
February 23, 2015
A well blended mystery with romance. A fast paced read with interesting characters that will keep you turning the pages.
Thanks to S.K. Derban and Goodreads for my copy.
Thanks to S.K. Derban and Goodreads for my copy.
April 25, 2014
Wow! I loved this book and found it hard to put down. The characters were wonderful! I am hooked as a true S.K. Derban fan. I cannot wait for her next novel!
November 18, 2014
I LOVED this book and fell in love with the characters right away! Such an easy, delightful read! Cant wait for the next book by this wonderful new author!
November 24, 2014
I loved this book! I can't wait to read another book by this author!
February 14, 2016
Great story - I loved it!
April 12, 2017
I immediately fell in love with Madison's character. She had that nosy but I'm trying to help attitude. Who doesn't like a character like that? I know in her heart she really felt like she could solve this case on her own even though she probably should have left it to the professionals. If I were in her shoes, the adventurous side of my would have wanted to do the same thing! The author did a great job in writing this part.
Mostly, I enjoyed her interactions with Court. You could tell by the way the author described their thoughts and actions that there was something there, but neither seemed to want to take the first step. I preferred having their romance take a back burner to the mystery of the story. This was smart on the author's part, as I felt it would have taken away from the main plot line, and their feelings may have interfered with solving the case. The story could have gone down a road that wasn't necessary, but instead this was the perfect blend of mystery and love.
I hope the sleuth in you will decide to give this a try. It was fun putting all the pieces together and figuring it all out. And...be prepared. You may be way off base like I was when you find out the truth! But hopefully you'll find that you have a new author to enjoy as well. I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Mostly, I enjoyed her interactions with Court. You could tell by the way the author described their thoughts and actions that there was something there, but neither seemed to want to take the first step. I preferred having their romance take a back burner to the mystery of the story. This was smart on the author's part, as I felt it would have taken away from the main plot line, and their feelings may have interfered with solving the case. The story could have gone down a road that wasn't necessary, but instead this was the perfect blend of mystery and love.
I hope the sleuth in you will decide to give this a try. It was fun putting all the pieces together and figuring it all out. And...be prepared. You may be way off base like I was when you find out the truth! But hopefully you'll find that you have a new author to enjoy as well. I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 3, 2017
I received a complimentary copy.
With a writing style that is unique and a story that grabs attention, this book is a great day killer. I found myself not wanting to delay the finish but at the same time having to put the book on hold for daily things. I was able to start back up and get right into the story which is not always an easy thing to do. The characters have a way of sweeping you up and the finish was worth every minute in between.
With a writing style that is unique and a story that grabs attention, this book is a great day killer. I found myself not wanting to delay the finish but at the same time having to put the book on hold for daily things. I was able to start back up and get right into the story which is not always an easy thing to do. The characters have a way of sweeping you up and the finish was worth every minute in between.
November 14, 2021
Sweet story, cozy mystery. This was a very enjoyable book. Young (nosy?) law student gets herself in the middle of a murder investigation. So, we're hooked immediately because this is what we all want!
Throw in a budding romance with a federal investigator, a lovely family and a new found friendship and you have a very interesting and sweet story. Recommend. Looking forward to reading "Circumvent" by this author.
Throw in a budding romance with a federal investigator, a lovely family and a new found friendship and you have a very interesting and sweet story. Recommend. Looking forward to reading "Circumvent" by this author.
February 11, 2017
I liked this book. But it didn't excite me. I wasn't captivated or enthralled by the characters, plot, or the mystery. It was a sweet story with a decent premise, but it took me a few days to really get into it. Overall, the writing is good and it is easy to read, I was just missing some excitement!
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews