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The Art of Murder #2
Die Monet-Morde: Die Kunst des Mordens - Buch II
Das Letzte, was Jason West, ein junger und ehrgeiziger FBI Special Agent im Team für Kunstkriminalität, will - oder braucht - ist eine zweifelhafte und inoffizielle romantische Beziehung mit Sam Kennedy, dem legendär jähzornigen Chef der Verhaltensanalyse-Einheit des FBI.
Und es scheint, dass auch Sam von dieser Vorstellung nicht gerade begeistert ist.
Aber beide müssen ihre persönlichen Gefühle beiseite schieben, denn Sam benötigt Jasons Hilfe, um einen geistesgestörten Mörder zu jagen, der es auf reiche Sammler edler Kunstgegenstände abgesehen hat. Einen Killer, dessen Visitenkarte groteske Gemälde sind, auf denen er seine Morde darstellt.
Und es scheint, dass auch Sam von dieser Vorstellung nicht gerade begeistert ist.
Aber beide müssen ihre persönlichen Gefühle beiseite schieben, denn Sam benötigt Jasons Hilfe, um einen geistesgestörten Mörder zu jagen, der es auf reiche Sammler edler Kunstgegenstände abgesehen hat. Einen Killer, dessen Visitenkarte groteske Gemälde sind, auf denen er seine Morde darstellt.
378 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 25, 2017
105 people are currently reading
853 people want to read
About the author
Josh Lanyon
224 books5,418 followersAuthor of 100+ titles of Gay Mystery and M/M Romance, Josh Lanyon has built her literary legacy on twisty mystery, kickass adventure, and unapologetic man-on-man romance.
Her work has been translated into twelve languages. The FBI thriller Fair Game was the first Male/Male title to be published by Italy’s Harlequin Mondadori and Stranger on the Shore (Harper Collins Italia) was the first M/M title to be published in print. In 2016 Fatal Shadows placed #5 in Japan’s annual Boy Love novel list (the first and only title by a foreign author to place on the list). The Adrien English series was awarded the All-Time Favorite Couple by the Goodreads M/M Romance Group. In 2019, Fatal Shadows became the first LGBTQ mobile game created by Moments: Choose Your Story.
She’s an EPIC Award winner, a four-time Lambda Literary Award finalist (twice for Gay Mystery), an Edgar nominee, and the first ever recipient of the Goodreads All Time Favorite M/M Author award.
Josh is married and lives in Southern California with her irascible husband, two adorable dogs, a small garden, and an ever-expanding library of vintage mystery destined to eventually crush them all beneath its weight.
Find other Josh Lanyon titles at www.joshlanyon.com
Follow Josh on Twitter, Facebook, and Goodreads.
Her work has been translated into twelve languages. The FBI thriller Fair Game was the first Male/Male title to be published by Italy’s Harlequin Mondadori and Stranger on the Shore (Harper Collins Italia) was the first M/M title to be published in print. In 2016 Fatal Shadows placed #5 in Japan’s annual Boy Love novel list (the first and only title by a foreign author to place on the list). The Adrien English series was awarded the All-Time Favorite Couple by the Goodreads M/M Romance Group. In 2019, Fatal Shadows became the first LGBTQ mobile game created by Moments: Choose Your Story.
She’s an EPIC Award winner, a four-time Lambda Literary Award finalist (twice for Gay Mystery), an Edgar nominee, and the first ever recipient of the Goodreads All Time Favorite M/M Author award.
Josh is married and lives in Southern California with her irascible husband, two adorable dogs, a small garden, and an ever-expanding library of vintage mystery destined to eventually crush them all beneath its weight.
Find other Josh Lanyon titles at www.joshlanyon.com
Follow Josh on Twitter, Facebook, and Goodreads.
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 452 reviews
May 30, 2024
4.5 stars
Another intriguing mystery with many layers. I had no idea where it was going and how everything was connected. I didn't even try to solve it. 😅 There was only one situation I wasn't happy about and I wished I could change.
Loved the relationship development between Jason and Sam, as frustrating as it was. I didn't expect to get so much angst in this one and I really felt for Jason. But, as with the first book, the ending was wonderful.
Another intriguing mystery with many layers. I had no idea where it was going and how everything was connected. I didn't even try to solve it. 😅 There was only one situation I wasn't happy about and I wished I could change.
Loved the relationship development between Jason and Sam, as frustrating as it was. I didn't expect to get so much angst in this one and I really felt for Jason. But, as with the first book, the ending was wonderful.
May 29, 2017
BEAUTIFUL!
OMG, I loved this book! Granted, I didn't like the first half. It felt like a rehash of what we had to suffer through with Adrien and Jake at their lowest. Not to mention that Sam and Jason are separated by location for most of the book AND SIMPLY DIDN'T COMMUNICATE!!!
BUT once Sam and Jason are together on the same page (no kidding), things hit off so beautifully that I was literally drooling.
<3 <3 <3
Their sex is one of the hottest moments in any Lanyon novel, I think.
I also LOVE how revealing bits and pieces about Sam (who AGAIN didn't get his own POV - a true 'mystery guy') resulted in establishing Sam and Jason as a perfectly independent couple (I hope) with no more Adrien & Jake vibes.
The plot was well done again. I absolutely loved the atmosphere. Misty Camden Island with its many graveyards. The ruined clock tower. Breathtaking.
Once again, a real masterpiece, even though I kind of suffered through the first half alongside Jason.
A truly great book 2 in that awesome Art of Murder series. I cannot wait for book 3!
And I LOVE the connection to Winter Kill. I want to see more of Agent Darling ;-)
5 stars and a favorite!
OMG, I loved this book! Granted, I didn't like the first half. It felt like a rehash of what we had to suffer through with Adrien and Jake at their lowest. Not to mention that Sam and Jason are separated by location for most of the book AND SIMPLY DIDN'T COMMUNICATE!!!
BUT once Sam and Jason are together on the same page (no kidding), things hit off so beautifully that I was literally drooling.
<3 <3 <3
Their sex is one of the hottest moments in any Lanyon novel, I think.
I also LOVE how revealing bits and pieces about Sam (who AGAIN didn't get his own POV - a true 'mystery guy') resulted in establishing Sam and Jason as a perfectly independent couple (I hope) with no more Adrien & Jake vibes.
The plot was well done again. I absolutely loved the atmosphere. Misty Camden Island with its many graveyards. The ruined clock tower. Breathtaking.
Once again, a real masterpiece, even though I kind of suffered through the first half alongside Jason.
A truly great book 2 in that awesome Art of Murder series. I cannot wait for book 3!
And I LOVE the connection to Winter Kill. I want to see more of Agent Darling ;-)
5 stars and a favorite!
July 18, 2022
Eight months after the events from The Mermaid Murders, there hasn't been much progress in the Jason-Kennedy romance department. They've talked on the phone a few times, and occasionally let loose the odd innuendo or two, but nothing more concrete. When they finally do meet, Kennedy's body language all but telegraphs 'gentle letdown' to Jason. Lucky for him, there's plenty of art crime to keep our protagonist busy... like the overly grisly one responsible for finally bringing him face-to-face with Kennedy, in the first place.
On a less depressing note, Jason finally realizes that the good press he's been basking in for the last few years, has been master-minded by the (unofficial) president of his fan-club: truly flattering, but possibly not the smartest thing to act on. YOU HEAR ME, JASON?!
Additionally, his well-meaning older sisters positively insist on throwing him a teeny tiny birthday party (+/- 100 guests), where they're very helpfully threatening to set him up on a blind date. So yeah, life's just grand for one Jason West!
This book was... confusing. On the one hand, I so wanted to get interested in the murder-mystery solving process, but I couldn't really decide on which one to focus: Jason's ongoing investigations into evil double-crossing gallery business, the horrifying Monet-fanatic serial killer, or the very subtle creepy vibe presented by the deranged psychologist from the prequel. In the end, I just stopped caring, and focused my energy on Jason's love life. Or lack there of... whichever way you want to put it.
Another aspect I greatly enjoyed, was finding out more about Jason's family background. Although there had been some hints in the previous book, it is here that we finally see the scale of his parents' and siblings' connection to the upper crust. To say nothing of the fan-service in getting to see him "casually" wearing a tuxedo amidst a grisly crime scene. *wags eyebrows*
What I didn't enjoy, was the focus put on the the artistic aspect of things. And I don't just mean the murders. Wait, wait, wait: let me explain.
I realize that for members of the art crime division an interest in art is crucial (or at least recommended), but that doesn't make me personally less of a philistine, when it comes to appreciating the "classics".
Get me a Dali, and I'll happily spend an hour puzzling over the clever juxtaposition of the various creepy details in his paintings. Heck, I'm even willing to give an approving nod to the Renaissance masters. Impressionism and expressionism have never left much of a lasting ugh... impression on me. So don't be surprised to see me run away screaming, when you throw a Tiffany stained glass window in the mix.
Score: 2.8/5 stars
Once again, it was the romance between Kennedy and Jason that had me reach for the sequel posthaste, even though this particular installment proved to be somewhat unsatisfying in that regard. What can I say, Kennedy just knows how to make a well-timed confession. Incidentally, those puppy dog eyes of his should be illegal: rarely have I felt this guilty about judging a fictional character too quickly... *fidgets uncomfortably*
========================
Review of book 1: The Mermaid Murders
Review of book 3: The Magician Murders
Review of book 4: The Monuments Men Murders
Review of book 5: The Movie-Town Murders
On a less depressing note, Jason finally realizes that the good press he's been basking in for the last few years, has been master-minded by the (unofficial) president of his fan-club: truly flattering, but possibly not the smartest thing to act on. YOU HEAR ME, JASON?!
Additionally, his well-meaning older sisters positively insist on throwing him a teeny tiny birthday party (+/- 100 guests), where they're very helpfully threatening to set him up on a blind date. So yeah, life's just grand for one Jason West!
This book was... confusing. On the one hand, I so wanted to get interested in the murder-mystery solving process, but I couldn't really decide on which one to focus: Jason's ongoing investigations into evil double-crossing gallery business, the horrifying Monet-fanatic serial killer, or the very subtle creepy vibe presented by the deranged psychologist from the prequel. In the end, I just stopped caring, and focused my energy on Jason's love life. Or lack there of... whichever way you want to put it.
Another aspect I greatly enjoyed, was finding out more about Jason's family background. Although there had been some hints in the previous book, it is here that we finally see the scale of his parents' and siblings' connection to the upper crust. To say nothing of the fan-service in getting to see him "casually" wearing a tuxedo amidst a grisly crime scene. *wags eyebrows*
What I didn't enjoy, was the focus put on the the artistic aspect of things. And I don't just mean the murders. Wait, wait, wait: let me explain.
I realize that for members of the art crime division an interest in art is crucial (or at least recommended), but that doesn't make me personally less of a philistine, when it comes to appreciating the "classics".
Get me a Dali, and I'll happily spend an hour puzzling over the clever juxtaposition of the various creepy details in his paintings. Heck, I'm even willing to give an approving nod to the Renaissance masters. Impressionism and expressionism have never left much of a lasting ugh... impression on me. So don't be surprised to see me run away screaming, when you throw a Tiffany stained glass window in the mix.
Score: 2.8/5 stars
Once again, it was the romance between Kennedy and Jason that had me reach for the sequel posthaste, even though this particular installment proved to be somewhat unsatisfying in that regard. What can I say, Kennedy just knows how to make a well-timed confession. Incidentally, those puppy dog eyes of his should be illegal: rarely have I felt this guilty about judging a fictional character too quickly... *fidgets uncomfortably*
========================
Review of book 1: The Mermaid Murders
Review of book 3: The Magician Murders
Review of book 4: The Monuments Men Murders
Review of book 5: The Movie-Town Murders
June 10, 2017
Worth the wait for a crazy little thing called love... and murder.
Jason West is working a case of art fraud when a calling card is left by the Santa Monica pier.
Not far from the swanky hotels. A summons for his expertise brings him back into contact with Sam Kennedy. That fire has been banked while they each pursue their respective careers separated by a continent. Will it be stoked?
So, this was a lovely installment in the Sam/Jason story and the mystery was good and gruesome. Higher flying with art world money front and center and we learn a bit more of Jason's background, which is definitely more rarified than most. This one's a roller coaster so hold on tight.
Jason West is working a case of art fraud when a calling card is left by the Santa Monica pier.
Not far from the swanky hotels. A summons for his expertise brings him back into contact with Sam Kennedy. That fire has been banked while they each pursue their respective careers separated by a continent. Will it be stoked?
So, this was a lovely installment in the Sam/Jason story and the mystery was good and gruesome. Higher flying with art world money front and center and we learn a bit more of Jason's background, which is definitely more rarified than most. This one's a roller coaster so hold on tight.
October 10, 2022
✦ i am really enjoying this series so far. it's been a while since i read any of this author's work, so i'm very glad to see that her books are still as bingeable as i remember.
✦ great writing, interesting cases, nice chemistry between the mcs. very curious to see how their relationship will develop in the other books.
✦ great writing, interesting cases, nice chemistry between the mcs. very curious to see how their relationship will develop in the other books.
May 26, 2017
Okay, so after reading the real final, I'm gonna give this one a 5er. Wooooop!
---
So I guess I'm waiting on an updated version of the book because there was some kinda problem. Whoops! I'm still waiting on it, sooooo... yep. Will change my review accordingly, haha
---
Original review:
Wait, what?
Okay. So close to 5 stars. But like. Okay. Where to start?
I love the romance in this book. I adore it. It's not easy and it's not all hearts and rainbows. Not to say it's filled with angst, but these are messy relationships between people who, okay, don't always put 'love' first. Which is realistic. That's the case for a lot of people. I can relate. I can appreciate that. It makes the happiest of the happy moments better.
I really enjoyed the time spent between Sam and Jason in this edition. Except their lack of communication could be frustrating but I kind of enjoyed that.
The mystery was incredibly interesting. I loved it, just as I did in the first book. Really interesting side characters, a really sweet-ass island which reminded me of the one from The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo. Artwork, money, privilege, questions. Awesome.
Things I didn't love.
Uh, Jason seemed a little whiny in this? I think he was a tiny bit more whiny in this book. And insecure. And his constant monologues about how he feels about Sam were getting a little overdone.
Annnnd the big thing I didn't love. This is a big one and I imagine most, if not all, reviews are going to at least mention it:
It's just like... I'm really left hanging here, man. Like I'm okay with relationships taking course over a few books, but leaving that up in the air is pretty major, so that's where one star went.
Would I recommend? Yes. Absolutely
BUT...maybe wait until the next installment to read this one? Or the whole series? I dunno. I'm left feeling very "Awwww, shit!" about this but I did enjoy it the whole time I was reading it.
---
So I guess I'm waiting on an updated version of the book because there was some kinda problem. Whoops! I'm still waiting on it, sooooo... yep. Will change my review accordingly, haha
---
Original review:
Wait, what?
Okay. So close to 5 stars. But like. Okay. Where to start?
I love the romance in this book. I adore it. It's not easy and it's not all hearts and rainbows. Not to say it's filled with angst, but these are messy relationships between people who, okay, don't always put 'love' first. Which is realistic. That's the case for a lot of people. I can relate. I can appreciate that. It makes the happiest of the happy moments better.
I really enjoyed the time spent between Sam and Jason in this edition. Except their lack of communication could be frustrating but I kind of enjoyed that.
The mystery was incredibly interesting. I loved it, just as I did in the first book. Really interesting side characters, a really sweet-ass island which reminded me of the one from The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo. Artwork, money, privilege, questions. Awesome.
Things I didn't love.
Uh, Jason seemed a little whiny in this? I think he was a tiny bit more whiny in this book. And insecure. And his constant monologues about how he feels about Sam were getting a little overdone.
Annnnd the big thing I didn't love. This is a big one and I imagine most, if not all, reviews are going to at least mention it:
It's just like... I'm really left hanging here, man. Like I'm okay with relationships taking course over a few books, but leaving that up in the air is pretty major, so that's where one star went.
Would I recommend? Yes. Absolutely
BUT...maybe wait until the next installment to read this one? Or the whole series? I dunno. I'm left feeling very "Awwww, shit!" about this but I did enjoy it the whole time I was reading it.
November 30, 2017
Review written November 30, 2017
4.8 Stars - Simply fabulous Lanyon stuff
Book #2 in “The Art of Murder”
**********************************************
Yay, back to these two... — "The last thing Jason West, ambitious FBI special agent with the Art Crimes Team wants -- or needs -- is his uncertain and unacknowledged romantic relationship with legendary Behavioral Analysis Unit Chief Sam Kennedy." — We remember them from The Mermaid Murders.
The Monet Murders was so very good in every way. It hooked me completely and I enjoyed every second of this audiobook listening (most of it in my free day today).
Heartbreaking love story, sexy moody feelings, huge understandable attraction and a very good, and in the end thrilling, crime case. Josh Lanyon really knows how to do it. Her/his longer crime-romance novels are always top quality. ~ Looking forward to more stories with these two FBI agents.
I “read” the 9 hours audiobook (well enough) narrated by Kale Williams.
Recommended series.
**********************************************
I LIKE - awesome great JL M/M romances as this one
4.8 Stars - Simply fabulous Lanyon stuff
Book #2 in “The Art of Murder”
**********************************************
Yay, back to these two... — "The last thing Jason West, ambitious FBI special agent with the Art Crimes Team wants -- or needs -- is his uncertain and unacknowledged romantic relationship with legendary Behavioral Analysis Unit Chief Sam Kennedy." — We remember them from The Mermaid Murders.
The Monet Murders was so very good in every way. It hooked me completely and I enjoyed every second of this audiobook listening (most of it in my free day today).
Heartbreaking love story, sexy moody feelings, huge understandable attraction and a very good, and in the end thrilling, crime case. Josh Lanyon really knows how to do it. Her/his longer crime-romance novels are always top quality. ~ Looking forward to more stories with these two FBI agents.
I “read” the 9 hours audiobook (well enough) narrated by Kale Williams.
Recommended series.
**********************************************
I LIKE - awesome great JL M/M romances as this one
October 5, 2018
4,5 stars
The waiting was worth it! The second installment didn't disappoint: a great mystery, charismatic characters and a lot of FEELINGS!
I’m a BIG fan of Art Crime novels, unfortunately I haven’t come across them too often in the LGBT genre. With The Art of Murder series Josh Lanyon killed two birds with one stone (for me, I don't literally mean the number of deaths in this book, it is slightly more): My mystery-soul is extremely happy and my romance-soul is completely satisfied.
Let’s talk about the mystery. Ve-ry complex, ve-ry creepy, with a brilliantly created spooky environment and thrilling atmosphere. Wow.
James West, FBI Special Agent of the Art Crime Team, investigates a fraud in Fletcher-Durrand Gallery. Legendary FBI profiler Sam Kennedy who since their last case together in Massachusetts has promoted to chief of the FBI Behavior Analysis Unit hunts a serial killer, who leaves a Monet painting at the crime scenes. And Christopher Shipka, a reporter for the Valley Voice on his private mission to find out what happened to the German art student Paris Havemeyer almost 20 years ago. But hold on tight: there are much more!
The fact that all these cases are connected hasn’t come totally unexpected. Key word ART.
What took me (and not just me) by surprise, was a cold and very reserved appearance of Sam at the crime scene and how he purposely ignored his almost boy-friend. (At least it was what we all truly believed, didn’t we?) As if there were no Massachusetts and passion PURE, as if there were no those eight months of sensual phone calls. What the hell is going on? Sam tries to stay aloofly official; James tries to hide his hurt, confusion and embarrassment. Sam pretends they are just good friends, James needs an explanation.
And then this case they have to work together on... A COMPLICATED mayhem of feelings!
The best prerequisites for an emotional romance with a lot of sexual tension.
With Sam & James interaction, Josh Lanyon fulfilled all the most high expectations of the most critical readers of romance novels.
Highly enjoyable and beautiful MM Romance Mystery, that left you craving for more!
***ARC provided by the author to GBR in exchange for an honest review. ***
The waiting was worth it! The second installment didn't disappoint: a great mystery, charismatic characters and a lot of FEELINGS!
I’m a BIG fan of Art Crime novels, unfortunately I haven’t come across them too often in the LGBT genre. With The Art of Murder series Josh Lanyon killed two birds with one stone (for me, I don't literally mean the number of deaths in this book, it is slightly more): My mystery-soul is extremely happy and my romance-soul is completely satisfied.
Let’s talk about the mystery. Ve-ry complex, ve-ry creepy, with a brilliantly created spooky environment and thrilling atmosphere. Wow.
James West, FBI Special Agent of the Art Crime Team, investigates a fraud in Fletcher-Durrand Gallery. Legendary FBI profiler Sam Kennedy who since their last case together in Massachusetts has promoted to chief of the FBI Behavior Analysis Unit hunts a serial killer, who leaves a Monet painting at the crime scenes. And Christopher Shipka, a reporter for the Valley Voice on his private mission to find out what happened to the German art student Paris Havemeyer almost 20 years ago. But hold on tight: there are much more!
The fact that all these cases are connected hasn’t come totally unexpected. Key word ART.
What took me (and not just me) by surprise, was a cold and very reserved appearance of Sam at the crime scene and how he purposely ignored his almost boy-friend. (At least it was what we all truly believed, didn’t we?) As if there were no Massachusetts and passion PURE, as if there were no those eight months of sensual phone calls. What the hell is going on? Sam tries to stay aloofly official; James tries to hide his hurt, confusion and embarrassment. Sam pretends they are just good friends, James needs an explanation.
And then this case they have to work together on... A COMPLICATED mayhem of feelings!
The best prerequisites for an emotional romance with a lot of sexual tension.
With Sam & James interaction, Josh Lanyon fulfilled all the most high expectations of the most critical readers of romance novels.
Highly enjoyable and beautiful MM Romance Mystery, that left you craving for more!
***ARC provided by the author to GBR in exchange for an honest review. ***
October 20, 2018
I’ve been trying to write a coherent review for a while but I’m in danger of going into stupid-fangirl mode, so this is me trying to keep it simple and concise.
I started this book, this whole series really, with the expectation that I’d end up disappointed and, in a weird way, that may have been a good thing, because so far it didn’t happen.
The best thing of this book for me was the relationship development, the mystery was interesting but also kind of confusing and fragmented, with too many cases intersecting. By the time Jason figured out who the unsub was, I’d almost forgotten that character even existed.
What really worked for me was Jason and Sam’s dynamic. This is only the second of five books and it shows, it’s clear that they’re only just beginning to make some progress after they connected in the first book, but I love how they interact. When I don’t want to smack him upside the head for it, it amuses me to no end how Sam, who’s so competent on human psychology when it comes to his job, can be so obtuse and make such a mess of his personal life. Not that Jason doesn’t have his moments (), but Sam definitely takes the prize. In every sense. When he makes a mess of things, he really makes a mess, but the way he just blurts out the sweetest things out of nowhere in his direct and matter-of-fact way is just disarming.
These two made me shake my head in exasperation more than a few times, and I’m sure they’re not even close to be done with that, but I loved their interaction once they finally started talking and I finished the book with a big smile on my face.
I started this book, this whole series really, with the expectation that I’d end up disappointed and, in a weird way, that may have been a good thing, because so far it didn’t happen.
The best thing of this book for me was the relationship development, the mystery was interesting but also kind of confusing and fragmented, with too many cases intersecting. By the time Jason figured out who the unsub was, I’d almost forgotten that character even existed.
What really worked for me was Jason and Sam’s dynamic. This is only the second of five books and it shows, it’s clear that they’re only just beginning to make some progress after they connected in the first book, but I love how they interact. When I don’t want to smack him upside the head for it, it amuses me to no end how Sam, who’s so competent on human psychology when it comes to his job, can be so obtuse and make such a mess of his personal life. Not that Jason doesn’t have his moments (), but Sam definitely takes the prize. In every sense. When he makes a mess of things, he really makes a mess, but the way he just blurts out the sweetest things out of nowhere in his direct and matter-of-fact way is just disarming.
These two made me shake my head in exasperation more than a few times, and I’m sure they’re not even close to be done with that, but I loved their interaction once they finally started talking and I finished the book with a big smile on my face.
October 30, 2021
***4.5 ❤️***
September 19, 2023
However horrible murder may be for its victims and their loved ones, it does create employment...
The New York TimesThis is one of the stories that Lanyon was inspired by when crafting this delightful romp of a crime whopper. It covers the 1985 Death Mask Murders. A foreign fashion student has been burnt in a sadomasochistic ritual orchestrated by an art dealer and his assistant. In this book, we have Shepherd and Barnaby, gallery owners who are being investigated for fraud by Art Crimes FBI agent, Jason West.
There Was Something Creepy About The Gallery
June 21, 1992
Monet's Waterlilies and Japanese Bridge
Agent West is attending a seminar conducted by his high-profile family when he receives a call from BAU Chief and quasi-boyfriend Sam Kennedy. There's been a murder, serial murders, and each body is left with a badly recreated Monet. But all is not as it seems, as West notes,
“Deliberately terrible,” Jason said. “Like a caricature. Like someone painted them as a joke. Except for the fact that they represent murder scenes.”While this is ongoing, a journalist for the LA Valley Voice, Shipka, has gained an unhealthy curiosity for West's exploits. So much so that he interferes with West's investigation, insisting that the latest killing is linked to a murder that occurred 20 years prior.
In addition to the interlayered crimes that West finds himself embroiled in, Kennedy breaks up with West before they could ever really start. And through most of the book we sympathise with West. He even asks, in a moment of candid vulnerability,
Jason said nothing. There was nothing he could say without sounding exactly like what Sam clearly feared. Unprofessional. Emotional. Immature. Something. He felt incredibly, embarrassingly hurt. And foolish—which hurt even more than the ice-cold realization that Sam had never had any intention of pursuing their…whatever the hell it was.Break my heart, why don't you. Through it all we wonder why Kennedy is so reticent, why he's so against the idea of pursuing anything with West. But he stiffens at the idea of West moving on. He goes out of his way to help West escape the scrutiny of local law enforcement when he falls under their microscope for a crime he's suspected of committing. Why, Kennedy, why.
Ultimately, this is a book for fans of the police procedural that has some self-awareness. This book pokes a lot of fun at CSI and its mischaracterizations of forensic investigations. It's like it was written for Last Week Tonight enthusiasts. And people who like their hearts turning into mush at unexpected romantic thoughtfulness. And those who love true crime-inspired fiction. However, the art forgery mystery was wrapped up a little too quickly for my taste, but for more about the story that inspired it, you can read the story here.
June 11, 2023
I need to stop taking two years to get to sequels... But it doesn't really matter because I fell right back into this story with no problems.
In The Monet Murders Jason's and Sam's romantic relationship is in an awkward spot. Jason has feelings for Sam, and is pretty sure those feelings are returned. But when a new case causes their paths to cross again, Sam is just professional and doesn't seem to want a romance. It looks as if the almost flirty calls and texts they shared since their last case together, which have been growing less frequent, are for naught.
But as a case involving Monet-style paintings depicting the murder scene they're placed at push them to work together, neither can keep hiding their true feelings for one another.
__
I loved this book. From the case that kept my interest throughout and moved the plot along, to my two favourite lovebirds. Jason and Sam have such a nice dynamic. Here we get some needed background info on Sam that relates to his hesitance to enter a relationship with Jason. The back and forth was perfect. No matter what, they would do anything to protect the other.
In The Monet Murders Jason's and Sam's romantic relationship is in an awkward spot. Jason has feelings for Sam, and is pretty sure those feelings are returned. But when a new case causes their paths to cross again, Sam is just professional and doesn't seem to want a romance. It looks as if the almost flirty calls and texts they shared since their last case together, which have been growing less frequent, are for naught.
But as a case involving Monet-style paintings depicting the murder scene they're placed at push them to work together, neither can keep hiding their true feelings for one another.
__
I loved this book. From the case that kept my interest throughout and moved the plot along, to my two favourite lovebirds. Jason and Sam have such a nice dynamic. Here we get some needed background info on Sam that relates to his hesitance to enter a relationship with Jason. The back and forth was perfect. No matter what, they would do anything to protect the other.
January 30, 2021
4.5 stars
March 23, 2023
Well, this book has the second in the series curse.
I start with the good part:
-the writing is good quality. That’s it.
Now what i didn’t like:
-The pacing is terrible. It felt like there is no concept at all. Jason analyse the case again and again without any new information just goes back and forth.
- the characters are annoying. Jason again goes back and forth whining about Sam’s decision of breaking up, while there is nothing to break up! They had sex like 2 times in the previous book and talked on the phone. That’s it. Sam became dumb. Only able to communicate in two words sentences and had the most pathetic reason for the break up.
-the case. There was two different cases and another? It wasn’t clear something about a case what’s happening in a different series. And mostly the whole thing was guesswork and philosophical inner monologues.
- the relationship part. A what?? They have like 5 scenes together and half of it was in silence with inner monologues again. Then the random sex with a random dude?!? It wasn’t bittersweet it wasn’t cheating it wasn’t anything. Just tiring af. I felt it supposed to give the Adrien& Jake feeling but it was so off and odd. By then I couldn’t care less about either the romance either the case. And in the last 30 page the author introduced a new character, closed the case and brought the MC together again. The book was around 350 pages so yeah the pacing was terrible.
And above all I’ve read the book on Scribd app, my settings cleared out in every page, the app lost the last read page every time I closed it and I couldn’t mark the pages if I was offline.
I deserve the golden reward of martyrs, you can send it now. Thank you.
I start with the good part:
-the writing is good quality. That’s it.
Now what i didn’t like:
-The pacing is terrible. It felt like there is no concept at all. Jason analyse the case again and again without any new information just goes back and forth.
- the characters are annoying. Jason again goes back and forth whining about Sam’s decision of breaking up, while there is nothing to break up! They had sex like 2 times in the previous book and talked on the phone. That’s it. Sam became dumb. Only able to communicate in two words sentences and had the most pathetic reason for the break up.
-the case. There was two different cases and another? It wasn’t clear something about a case what’s happening in a different series. And mostly the whole thing was guesswork and philosophical inner monologues.
- the relationship part. A what?? They have like 5 scenes together and half of it was in silence with inner monologues again. Then the random sex with a random dude?!? It wasn’t bittersweet it wasn’t cheating it wasn’t anything. Just tiring af. I felt it supposed to give the Adrien& Jake feeling but it was so off and odd. By then I couldn’t care less about either the romance either the case. And in the last 30 page the author introduced a new character, closed the case and brought the MC together again. The book was around 350 pages so yeah the pacing was terrible.
And above all I’ve read the book on Scribd app, my settings cleared out in every page, the app lost the last read page every time I closed it and I couldn’t mark the pages if I was offline.
I deserve the golden reward of martyrs, you can send it now. Thank you.
May 29, 2017
3.25 stars
Hmmm ... I am not entirely loving this one. It's more because of preference of the mystery I guess. When Jason is being called into crime scene of a murdered art buyer with a fake Monet painting on site, and how Sam says that the painting is "the calling card of a serial killer", I was ecstatic!! I love serial killer in my mystery. It's my favorite theme, probably.
Unfortunately afterwards, Jason isn't exactly involved with the serial killer case. That is Sam's case. And Sam is pretty much missing in this book because he is juggling many cases -- including apparently, Adam Darling's case that is written previously in Winter Kill, since this book and that one sort of overlapped. Instead Jason's main case is investigating the fraud and grand-larceny against Durrand brothers who operate an art gallery.
Sure, it IS Jason's expertise, he is the Art Crime Team agent after all... but to me it was slightly BORING. I'm not that into white collar cases, where they only 'victims' are pretty much rich people and nobody is dead. Maybe I'm a little blood-thirsty when it comes to my mystery but I definitely prefer corpses than paintings.
In short I wasn't invested with Jason's case, and because he is the MAIN narrator of this book, I was having a rather difficult time to keep my attention. In addition, I was slightly annoyed with Jason's insecurities in this book. He keeps thinking about the relationship problem with Sam. At times I thought it made him lost his focus on the case.
Lanyon's brand of angst didn't completely work for me this time around because to me, Jason became a little too immature and whiny. Even if I realize that there is thirteen years age-gap between him and Sam, and a totally different life experience and/or the way they are dealing with relationship.
I WAS really interested with the other part of the mystery though ... the one that the reporter, Chris Shipka, pretty much introduces to Jason. A case of missing teenager (possibility being raped and murdered) and how it might be even the key to everything.
I guess for me, this one is slightly more than okay but I can't say that I really like it.
Hmmm ... I am not entirely loving this one. It's more because of preference of the mystery I guess. When Jason is being called into crime scene of a murdered art buyer with a fake Monet painting on site, and how Sam says that the painting is "the calling card of a serial killer", I was ecstatic!! I love serial killer in my mystery. It's my favorite theme, probably.
Unfortunately afterwards, Jason isn't exactly involved with the serial killer case. That is Sam's case. And Sam is pretty much missing in this book because he is juggling many cases -- including apparently, Adam Darling's case that is written previously in Winter Kill, since this book and that one sort of overlapped. Instead Jason's main case is investigating the fraud and grand-larceny against Durrand brothers who operate an art gallery.
Sure, it IS Jason's expertise, he is the Art Crime Team agent after all... but to me it was slightly BORING. I'm not that into white collar cases, where they only 'victims' are pretty much rich people and nobody is dead. Maybe I'm a little blood-thirsty when it comes to my mystery but I definitely prefer corpses than paintings.
In short I wasn't invested with Jason's case, and because he is the MAIN narrator of this book, I was having a rather difficult time to keep my attention. In addition, I was slightly annoyed with Jason's insecurities in this book. He keeps thinking about the relationship problem with Sam. At times I thought it made him lost his focus on the case.
Lanyon's brand of angst didn't completely work for me this time around because to me, Jason became a little too immature and whiny. Even if I realize that there is thirteen years age-gap between him and Sam, and a totally different life experience and/or the way they are dealing with relationship.
I WAS really interested with the other part of the mystery though ... the one that the reporter, Chris Shipka, pretty much introduces to Jason. A case of missing teenager (possibility being raped and murdered) and how it might be even the key to everything.
I guess for me, this one is slightly more than okay but I can't say that I really like it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 16, 2018
I was looking forward to catching up with Jason and Sam, having read (listen to the audio) of The Mermaid Murders not too long ago.
It's been about eight months since the plot/case of the first books, where also Sam and Jason (finally) gave into temptation and fell into bed with each other. Sam held back, though, but was frank about it, telling Jason he wasn't a man to be involved with. But Sam couldn't keep away from Jason, and they tentatively agreed on a future dinner date when their paths crossed again.
Since then, they haven't met, but they have kept in touch. There has been numerous late night casual talk that they both appreciated. When Jason gets called in to a scene by Sam in the city Jason lives, Jason gets a cold shoulder from Sam. It's like they haven't met or haven't had all those phone conversations. Jason doesn't get it, but he doesn't push.
It seems like Sam's case and Jason's case is connected. Jason is tracking down a person of interest, who has been reluctant to meet him, cancelling several appointments to talk. To sort of force the guy to talk, Jason follows him to his family home, which is situated on an island in the middle of nowhere, in upstate New York. It's remote and only accessible by boat. Jason has also got a journalist dogging his steps.
The island was so eerie and creepy. It had a feeling of you just know something bad is going to happen. It was such a great atmosphere to read! Most of the plot takes place on the island.
Sam was the frustratingly standoffish love interest, but he finally loosened up a little and revealed something about himself. Jason is a sweetheart. I felt he pined a bit too much for Sam, I would have loved for him to tell Sam off since he was being a jerk. But that's how Josh Lanoyn's character works. And I love the dynamic, even though it can frustrate me to death sometime.
This was a typical, solid Josh Lanyon murder mystery with suspense and romance. I'm looking forward to the audio coming out hopefully this fall, and a third book with Jason and Sam sometime next year!
Recommended if you like Josh Lanyon's murder mysteries. Note that this is not a standalone book, read The Murmaid Murders first.
It's been about eight months since the plot/case of the first books, where also Sam and Jason (finally) gave into temptation and fell into bed with each other. Sam held back, though, but was frank about it, telling Jason he wasn't a man to be involved with. But Sam couldn't keep away from Jason, and they tentatively agreed on a future dinner date when their paths crossed again.
Since then, they haven't met, but they have kept in touch. There has been numerous late night casual talk that they both appreciated. When Jason gets called in to a scene by Sam in the city Jason lives, Jason gets a cold shoulder from Sam. It's like they haven't met or haven't had all those phone conversations. Jason doesn't get it, but he doesn't push.
It seems like Sam's case and Jason's case is connected. Jason is tracking down a person of interest, who has been reluctant to meet him, cancelling several appointments to talk. To sort of force the guy to talk, Jason follows him to his family home, which is situated on an island in the middle of nowhere, in upstate New York. It's remote and only accessible by boat. Jason has also got a journalist dogging his steps.
The island was so eerie and creepy. It had a feeling of you just know something bad is going to happen. It was such a great atmosphere to read! Most of the plot takes place on the island.
Sam was the frustratingly standoffish love interest, but he finally loosened up a little and revealed something about himself. Jason is a sweetheart. I felt he pined a bit too much for Sam, I would have loved for him to tell Sam off since he was being a jerk. But that's how Josh Lanoyn's character works. And I love the dynamic, even though it can frustrate me to death sometime.
This was a typical, solid Josh Lanyon murder mystery with suspense and romance. I'm looking forward to the audio coming out hopefully this fall, and a third book with Jason and Sam sometime next year!
Recommended if you like Josh Lanyon's murder mysteries. Note that this is not a standalone book, read The Murmaid Murders first.
September 7, 2019
Audio...5 stars
Story....4.5 stars
Story....4.5 stars
February 26, 2025
Oh wow, okay, this one WAS more of a slowburn!
After FBI agents Jason and Kennedy partnered, hooked up, and promised the possibility of something more in the previous book, we were dumped into an 8-MONTH time jump. It took me a bit off-guard because is it even plausible for two adult guys to not even meet once during that time, just talking on the phone and getting to know each other long-distance??
But it worked for me, it worked so damn well because the angst and pining were delicious. Jason West and Sam Kennedy finally see each other on another case (which may or may not involve the Monet paintings), Jason full of excitement and longing... yet Kennedy seems colder. A bit distant, and very professional. What's worse, he is polite, and Sam Kennedy isn't known for his politeness. So what the fuck?!
I really loved being in Jason's head, as the book is written in a single POV. He's the type of character I very much appreciate—pretty emotional but not outwardly, very rational, mature, and empathetic while working for the Art Crime section of the FBI.
Kennedy was so damn frustrating because he and healthy communication don't live on the same planet apparently, but thank god Jason isn't the same. It helped that the book is focused more on the case, and Jason and his ruminations, with Kennedy not having much of a page time till the last third - and I liked it that way. The romance is there (or not so much for most of this book) but it takes time. Kennedy has many hangups, he's emotionally unavailable, and he's reluctant to even try for something more with Jason. Fortunately, the tension between them was way stronger and they fucking finally collided once again. Confessions were made, and they are now on the same page...but what kind of page it's going to be, we shall see.
The conclusion to the case was a bit rushed, and the ending was kind of abrupt, but I'm looking forward to their journey—hopefully together! Not gonna lie; I think I'm getting attached 😳
Also, AGE GAP! I finally know Kennedy is 46, and with Jason being 33...niiice 😏😏
WARNING: on-page OM action (not very detailed), no cheating. It took me off-guard and I screamed at my poor e-reader, but I still understood why it happened. No flying into a jealous rage necessary (not with the way it ended 👀)
After FBI agents Jason and Kennedy partnered, hooked up, and promised the possibility of something more in the previous book, we were dumped into an 8-MONTH time jump. It took me a bit off-guard because is it even plausible for two adult guys to not even meet once during that time, just talking on the phone and getting to know each other long-distance??
But it worked for me, it worked so damn well because the angst and pining were delicious. Jason West and Sam Kennedy finally see each other on another case (which may or may not involve the Monet paintings), Jason full of excitement and longing... yet Kennedy seems colder. A bit distant, and very professional. What's worse, he is polite, and Sam Kennedy isn't known for his politeness. So what the fuck?!
I really loved being in Jason's head, as the book is written in a single POV. He's the type of character I very much appreciate—pretty emotional but not outwardly, very rational, mature, and empathetic while working for the Art Crime section of the FBI.
Kennedy was so damn frustrating because he and healthy communication don't live on the same planet apparently, but thank god Jason isn't the same. It helped that the book is focused more on the case, and Jason and his ruminations, with Kennedy not having much of a page time till the last third - and I liked it that way. The romance is there (or not so much for most of this book) but it takes time. Kennedy has many hangups, he's emotionally unavailable, and he's reluctant to even try for something more with Jason. Fortunately, the tension between them was way stronger and they fucking finally collided once again. Confessions were made, and they are now on the same page...but what kind of page it's going to be, we shall see.
The conclusion to the case was a bit rushed, and the ending was kind of abrupt, but I'm looking forward to their journey—hopefully together! Not gonna lie; I think I'm getting attached 😳
Also, AGE GAP! I finally know Kennedy is 46, and with Jason being 33...niiice 😏😏
WARNING: on-page OM action (not very detailed), no cheating. It took me off-guard and I screamed at my poor e-reader, but I still understood why it happened. No flying into a jealous rage necessary (not with the way it ended 👀)
March 23, 2024
Story: 4 Stars!
Audio: 5 Stars!
Another great plot and a little more push and pull between Jason and Kennedy. My heart broke for Jason a few times.. 💔 but it also broke for Kennedy, he had been through so much 😭. I also felt awful for one of the victims.. 😢 I was shocked by that death. TBH, this story surprised me and a lot of the plot points were very unexpected. However the story, especially the audio kept me hooked. 😍 Again not much of a romance.. and yet, highly recommended!! 👍👍
Audio: 5 Stars!
Another great plot and a little more push and pull between Jason and Kennedy. My heart broke for Jason a few times.. 💔 but it also broke for Kennedy, he had been through so much 😭. I also felt awful for one of the victims.. 😢 I was shocked by that death. TBH, this story surprised me and a lot of the plot points were very unexpected. However the story, especially the audio kept me hooked. 😍 Again not much of a romance.. and yet, highly recommended!! 👍👍
September 21, 2021
The second book in the Art of Murder series takes place eight months after the incidents of The Mermaid murders. This time the mystery revolved around three killings, all of them from the art world. Since these cases involved fake paintings and intersect with another case of Jason, he came aboard to work with Sam.
Mystery wise, the book has a much better plotline than the first book. And, I am happy to admit that I couldn't unravel the mystery till the end.🤭🤭 It also has a lot of action scenes, but for more than 60% of the book, we do not see Sam and Jason together. They are in different states and have very limited communication. So romance wise, it was a downer.
Dear Sam is still his grumpy, detached self and cares only for his work. However, once they came together, their chemistry was explosive. It was beautiful to see cranky Sam doing everything to help Jason and he was so adorable when he was jealous. 😘😘
Looking forward to the next book and more of Sam and Jason.😇😇
Mystery wise, the book has a much better plotline than the first book. And, I am happy to admit that I couldn't unravel the mystery till the end.🤭🤭 It also has a lot of action scenes, but for more than 60% of the book, we do not see Sam and Jason together. They are in different states and have very limited communication. So romance wise, it was a downer.
Dear Sam is still his grumpy, detached self and cares only for his work. However, once they came together, their chemistry was explosive. It was beautiful to see cranky Sam doing everything to help Jason and he was so adorable when he was jealous. 😘😘
Looking forward to the next book and more of Sam and Jason.😇😇
March 4, 2018
**2.5 stars**
Second part of this series about Jason and Sam, two FBI agents who met during a murder investigation in The Mermaid Murders, a book that hold a lot of promises for me.
Jason is a young agent specialized in art, invested in his career in the LA office but still stressed after being shot. As for Sam, his reputation in the FBI is both good and bad : he does close a lot of case, especially serial-killer ones, but let's say that he's not very social.
Two different personalities and career paths, but they meshed and decided to explore their relationship.
I thought that this book will see their relationship growing stronger and was really looking forward to it. But no. After several months spent over the phone, they finally meet again…only for Jason to realize this will only be about work from now on.
Gasp, that’s so not what I enjoy. Sam was almost out of the picture here, his absence even more pronounced as we only get Jason’s POV. As for the plot, well, there were so many investigations and leads that it was a lot and not enough at the same time, if I make any sense.
That’s all on me : I don’t fare well with break-up and it was tough to deal with the loneliness that permeated throughout this book, even though the ending of this instalment moves toward a second chance. I will still give a go to the next instalment being released in a few weeks, crossing my fingers it will be with both Sam and Jason.
**Note for Lisa : don’t mind my rating. I really thank you for this nice gift and I keep some great and fond memories of our SS exchange. <3**
Second part of this series about Jason and Sam, two FBI agents who met during a murder investigation in The Mermaid Murders, a book that hold a lot of promises for me.
Jason is a young agent specialized in art, invested in his career in the LA office but still stressed after being shot. As for Sam, his reputation in the FBI is both good and bad : he does close a lot of case, especially serial-killer ones, but let's say that he's not very social.
Two different personalities and career paths, but they meshed and decided to explore their relationship.
I thought that this book will see their relationship growing stronger and was really looking forward to it. But no. After several months spent over the phone, they finally meet again…only for Jason to realize this will only be about work from now on.
Gasp, that’s so not what I enjoy. Sam was almost out of the picture here, his absence even more pronounced as we only get Jason’s POV. As for the plot, well, there were so many investigations and leads that it was a lot and not enough at the same time, if I make any sense.
That’s all on me : I don’t fare well with break-up and it was tough to deal with the loneliness that permeated throughout this book, even though the ending of this instalment moves toward a second chance. I will still give a go to the next instalment being released in a few weeks, crossing my fingers it will be with both Sam and Jason.
**Note for Lisa : don’t mind my rating. I really thank you for this nice gift and I keep some great and fond memories of our SS exchange. <3**
November 25, 2020
Once again, this book is written in the beautiful style I now associate with JL - fast paced, and completely absorbing. But - the majority of the book had little relevance to the Monet Murders, and very little to do with Sam Kennedy in the person, although there is a lot of Sam Kennedy musing. Despite the fact I did love these two, I wanted more of them together, more interaction, and like book one, it was relationship light leaving most to the reader to deduce from the mention of a series of phone calls.
I will definitely read book 3.
I will definitely read book 3.
June 10, 2017
I LOVED the relationship angst, but I found the mystery a little boring compared to the first book.
May 22, 2025
April 2025 audio
⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️
April 2023 audio
I will repeat myself if I say more. All the stars!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Next book, now. :)
Feb 2021
Gah, the angst Jason feels when Sam breaks things off!! 💔💔💔💔💔💔 I loved this, angst and all, and somehow I forgot to keep reading the series (during my re-read) when I was done with book 1. I can't wait for the latest book in the series to come out. Squee!!!!
2018 review
A great BIG thank you to Christelle for this lovely gift. <3 This was just so good I love Josh Lanyon and am going to jump right in to reading Winter Kill, which is loosely related since it has Sam Kennedy in it.
The Monet Murders is a very well written mystery/suspense/thriller/romance. Not going to go into a whole big thing about the story - just know it's awesome and you have to read it. The romance isn't the primary focus of the book, but at the same time it is.
The mystery in this book was good - I really enjoyed it and was thinking and plotting along trying to figure out the deal. I love a good mystery that keeps me guessing. Lanyon is brilliant with this and there goes another statue in her honor, LOLOLOL. :D
I am so excited to read the next book in the series and from the blurb, it sounds like Jason and Sam might finally be on the same page relationshipwise. Fingers crossed!
5 stars
⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️
April 2023 audio
I will repeat myself if I say more. All the stars!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Next book, now. :)
Feb 2021
Gah, the angst Jason feels when Sam breaks things off!! 💔💔💔💔💔💔 I loved this, angst and all, and somehow I forgot to keep reading the series (during my re-read) when I was done with book 1. I can't wait for the latest book in the series to come out. Squee!!!!
2018 review
A great BIG thank you to Christelle for this lovely gift. <3 This was just so good I love Josh Lanyon and am going to jump right in to reading Winter Kill, which is loosely related since it has Sam Kennedy in it.
The Monet Murders is a very well written mystery/suspense/thriller/romance. Not going to go into a whole big thing about the story - just know it's awesome and you have to read it. The romance isn't the primary focus of the book, but at the same time it is.
The mystery in this book was good - I really enjoyed it and was thinking and plotting along trying to figure out the deal. I love a good mystery that keeps me guessing. Lanyon is brilliant with this and there goes another statue in her honor, LOLOLOL. :D
I am so excited to read the next book in the series and from the blurb, it sounds like Jason and Sam might finally be on the same page relationshipwise. Fingers crossed!
5 stars
July 31, 2017
I should preface this review by saying that I am aware John Lanyon is a pseudonym; more, a pseudo identity. I address that chosen identity of Josh when I speak of the author. It seems to me to be the polite thing to do. And I'd do a lot more for Josh if he keeps on writing books like this. I was entranced. Do not go into this expecting lovey dovey romance. I didn't think it was possible, but the relationship between Sam and Jason is even more fraught in this one than in The Mermaid Murders. My stomach was clenched with suppressed angst on their behalf at each phone call, during every terse meeting. Once again, the crime aspects of this were great. I love the setting of the series in the art world--not something I know anything about. It seems to offer amazing possibilities for more in this great series.
Don't miss these books if you're a fan of Josh's. He's back on top form.
Don't miss these books if you're a fan of Josh's. He's back on top form.
July 12, 2022
This book was released in 2017. It seemed that there were some release issues at that time and some readers received wrong or incomplete copies of the work and then waited quite some time for the mess to be straightened out. As a result, the book didn't get very high ratings, because understandably people were angry. I just got the book about two weeks ago so 5 years later...I am more of a "Happy Camper" than some of the others. I have loved and followed Josh Lanyon for several years and believe I have read almost every book she... (Yes, Josh is she) ...has published...and loved every single one. This one is told mainly from the POV of Jason West, FBI Crime Investigator. This didn't get as high a rating from me as some of the others, but it wasn't because I didn't like it...it was because of a couple of behavior issues with Jason. First off...he didn't act like an investigating FBI agent would be expected to act...maybe he missed Sam who had almost no, or very little, part in this story. Also...I have to wonder why in the world he would even give the character of Chris a second glance, much less what happened between them? This is my least favorite of Josh's series, and I'm not a big fan of art, but the story was worth the 3.5 stars
July 1, 2022
2022 reread: It's amazing how we never get Sam's POV here, and Jason spends time enough for the two of them pondering their relationship, and yet it works and I want to know more. Again, the mystery is so well done. Another 5 stars.
2017: Another fantastic book in The Art of Murder series by Josh Lanyon. I love how Jason and Sam's relationship isn't an easy thing - there's anguish and sleepless nights, raw emotions and regrets and at the very end of the book, they still aren't at what I'd call a HFN, but it works in the context of their relationship. The murder / mystery is beautifully crafted and I liked how this book focuses more on Jason's art expertise and his insight and intuition. 5 stars and I'm looking forward to another book in the series!
2017: Another fantastic book in The Art of Murder series by Josh Lanyon. I love how Jason and Sam's relationship isn't an easy thing - there's anguish and sleepless nights, raw emotions and regrets and at the very end of the book, they still aren't at what I'd call a HFN, but it works in the context of their relationship. The murder / mystery is beautifully crafted and I liked how this book focuses more on Jason's art expertise and his insight and intuition. 5 stars and I'm looking forward to another book in the series!
July 20, 2023
Update 7/19/23
This is such a great installment in this series! The mystery was exciting and interesting and there is relationship development. It may take a little bit but we get answers into why Sam isn’t keen on dating.
___________________________________________________
4/18/19
Story 5 stars
Audio 5 stars
Still love this series so much!
This is such a great installment in this series! The mystery was exciting and interesting and there is relationship development. It may take a little bit but we get answers into why Sam isn’t keen on dating.
___________________________________________________
4/18/19
Story 5 stars
Audio 5 stars
Still love this series so much!
October 14, 2017
A mystery with a well-defined personality, that's what we have here, first and foremost. It's populated with many a unique character, each carrying around and sharing the bits of themselves that make them interesting. For some, that's a fab sense of humor. For others, it's uh... something much more deadly.
This story is told from Jason's point of view, though not in first person. In some ways, this works. His brain is always working, even when he doesn't want it to - I getcha, Jason, same here - he reads people rather well, and he kinda doesn't take any shit. The biggest way in which this isn't as successful is Sam. He already operates in a closed-off manner, making it quite the challenge for Jason to get a handle on who Sam is with any level of emotional certainty. This also means we don't get much of Sam, taking quite a long way through the story before there's anything substantial on which to hang one's character-investment hat.
It also means that Jason spends much of his inner monologue pondering, wondering, angst'ing, and many more 'ings over Sam. It does feel overdone at times. At the same time, I get it. I understand Jason and how he feels. He knows there's something special, something life-altering in this connection with Sam. Lawdy, though, there's a lot through which to wade and dig and then sort. Until the last quarter or so of the story, Sam and his motivations are hiding out.
Despite all of this, the chemistry between, and potential for a 100% fulfilling life together for Jason and Sam are massive and tantalizing and worth every moment spent working on it. There's an event that accomplishes several things in a split second: placing the shoe on the other foot, releasing one from a self-prescribed emotional prison, and injecting self-permission to express love. It's barely acknowledged on page but, wow, my heart was racing.
Along those lines, the action scenes are thrilling, sharp, grounded by the emotions of those involved, and advance the story every time.
All of this speaks to this be being a murder mystery above all else. It's also a cop story, and a family you're born to vs the family you make story, and it's modern, fitting right in with today's world.
Favorite supporting characters: Daisy, she's "local color" personified, and she's got balls and uses 'em; Jonnie, she's the kind of friend colleague you want on your side; Berguan: he might not have a lot of page time but, honey, he takes full advantage of what he's given.
I'm looking forward to the next story in this series. I'm curious to see where the relationship twixt Jason and Sam is heading, and how their careers play into it.
This story is told from Jason's point of view, though not in first person. In some ways, this works. His brain is always working, even when he doesn't want it to - I getcha, Jason, same here - he reads people rather well, and he kinda doesn't take any shit. The biggest way in which this isn't as successful is Sam. He already operates in a closed-off manner, making it quite the challenge for Jason to get a handle on who Sam is with any level of emotional certainty. This also means we don't get much of Sam, taking quite a long way through the story before there's anything substantial on which to hang one's character-investment hat.
It also means that Jason spends much of his inner monologue pondering, wondering, angst'ing, and many more 'ings over Sam. It does feel overdone at times. At the same time, I get it. I understand Jason and how he feels. He knows there's something special, something life-altering in this connection with Sam. Lawdy, though, there's a lot through which to wade and dig and then sort. Until the last quarter or so of the story, Sam and his motivations are hiding out.
Despite all of this, the chemistry between, and potential for a 100% fulfilling life together for Jason and Sam are massive and tantalizing and worth every moment spent working on it. There's an event that accomplishes several things in a split second: placing the shoe on the other foot, releasing one from a self-prescribed emotional prison, and injecting self-permission to express love. It's barely acknowledged on page but, wow, my heart was racing.
Along those lines, the action scenes are thrilling, sharp, grounded by the emotions of those involved, and advance the story every time.
All of this speaks to this be being a murder mystery above all else. It's also a cop story, and a family you're born to vs the family you make story, and it's modern, fitting right in with today's world.
Favorite supporting characters: Daisy, she's "local color" personified, and she's got balls and uses 'em; Jonnie, she's the kind of friend colleague you want on your side; Berguan: he might not have a lot of page time but, honey, he takes full advantage of what he's given.
I'm looking forward to the next story in this series. I'm curious to see where the relationship twixt Jason and Sam is heading, and how their careers play into it.
May 17, 2018
Overall book rating: 4.5
Audio Book: Kale Williams - 4.5
Book Cover: 4.5
It’s bad... really really bad.. I think I last felt like this with Jacob and Victor in Psy-Cops.
Okay. The story.
I enjoyed the mystery aspect in Mermaid Murders a great deal more. This one felt sorta kinda rushed? Maybe that’s because like in book one, everything didn’t happen at one location, and also because Jason wasn’t evolved until murder three. So it could naturally just be ME of course, wanting more time between the two MC’s.
There wasn’t a whole lot of that in this story I have to say. Time between Jason and Sam, that is.
But boy oh boy did I FEEL it. Even with them miles apart for most of the story, and even when they were within the same vicinity, the emotional gap made my heart ache!!! Sooooo good!
Bitter sweet HURTING!
Sam Kennedy is such a “closed book” and I have to say I enjoy seeing him struggle to let Jason in. My heart ached for Jason, and I really felt his emotions and confusion about the situation deeply. Very well done. It made the book special to me because it made me feel it. It’s complicated okay? LOL
Also, really happy that Kale Williams did this audio as well. He is really great ;-)
Audio Book: Kale Williams - 4.5
Book Cover: 4.5
It’s bad... really really bad.. I think I last felt like this with Jacob and Victor in Psy-Cops.
Okay. The story.
I enjoyed the mystery aspect in Mermaid Murders a great deal more. This one felt sorta kinda rushed? Maybe that’s because like in book one, everything didn’t happen at one location, and also because Jason wasn’t evolved until murder three. So it could naturally just be ME of course, wanting more time between the two MC’s.
There wasn’t a whole lot of that in this story I have to say. Time between Jason and Sam, that is.
But boy oh boy did I FEEL it. Even with them miles apart for most of the story, and even when they were within the same vicinity, the emotional gap made my heart ache!!! Sooooo good!
Bitter sweet HURTING!
Sam Kennedy is such a “closed book” and I have to say I enjoy seeing him struggle to let Jason in. My heart ached for Jason, and I really felt his emotions and confusion about the situation deeply. Very well done. It made the book special to me because it made me feel it. It’s complicated okay? LOL
Also, really happy that Kale Williams did this audio as well. He is really great ;-)
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