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Max Revere #2
Compulsion
Investigative reporter Maxine Revere has a theory: that the five New York City murders for which Adam Bachman is being tried are just part of his killing spree. In probing the disappearance of a retired couple who vanished the prior summer, Max uncovers striking similarities to Bachman's MO and develops a theory that Bachman wasn't working alone.
Max wins a coveted pre-trial interview with the killer, whose disarming composure in the face of her questions is combined with uncomfortable knowledge of Max's own past. She leaves the room convinced, but unable to prove, that Bachman knows exactly what happened to the missing couple. The D.A. wants nothing to jeopardize his case against Bachman and refuses to consider Max's theory. With no physical evidence, Max has to rely on her own wits and investigative prowess to dig deep into Bachman's past. The picture that Max puts together is far darker and more deadly than she ever imagined.
As Max gets closer to the truth, she doesn't realize that she's walking down a road that has been paved just for her. That every step she takes brings her one step closer to a brilliant, methodical sociopath who has been waiting for her to make just one small mistake.
And when she does, he'll be there waiting.
Max wins a coveted pre-trial interview with the killer, whose disarming composure in the face of her questions is combined with uncomfortable knowledge of Max's own past. She leaves the room convinced, but unable to prove, that Bachman knows exactly what happened to the missing couple. The D.A. wants nothing to jeopardize his case against Bachman and refuses to consider Max's theory. With no physical evidence, Max has to rely on her own wits and investigative prowess to dig deep into Bachman's past. The picture that Max puts together is far darker and more deadly than she ever imagined.
As Max gets closer to the truth, she doesn't realize that she's walking down a road that has been paved just for her. That every step she takes brings her one step closer to a brilliant, methodical sociopath who has been waiting for her to make just one small mistake.
And when she does, he'll be there waiting.
384 pages, Hardcover
First published April 7, 2015
523 people are currently reading
3311 people want to read
About the author
Allison Brennan
110 books5,315 followersNew York Times and USA Today bestselling author Allison Brennan believes that life is too short to be bored, so she had five children and writes three books a year.
In 2019, Allison relocated from Northern California to Arizona with her family and assorted pets. She loves baseball, hiking, family game night, and (of course) reading.
RT Book Reviews called Allison “a master of suspense” and her books “haunting,” “mesmerizing,” “pulse-pounding” and “emotionally complex.” She's been nominated for many awards, and is a three time winner of the Reviewer's Choice award winner for RT Book Reviews as well as the Daphne du Maurier award. Most recently, she was nominated for Best Paperback Original by International Thriller Writers.
With over 45 books and dozens of short stories, Allison is writing multiple series and the occasional stand alone thriller. Her most recent book out now is THE MISSING WITNESS, part of the Quinn & Costa series. In June Allison is launching a new Phoenix-set series about a family of private investigators starting with YOU'LL NEVER FIND ME.
You can reach Allison through Goodreads or her website.
In 2019, Allison relocated from Northern California to Arizona with her family and assorted pets. She loves baseball, hiking, family game night, and (of course) reading.
RT Book Reviews called Allison “a master of suspense” and her books “haunting,” “mesmerizing,” “pulse-pounding” and “emotionally complex.” She's been nominated for many awards, and is a three time winner of the Reviewer's Choice award winner for RT Book Reviews as well as the Daphne du Maurier award. Most recently, she was nominated for Best Paperback Original by International Thriller Writers.
With over 45 books and dozens of short stories, Allison is writing multiple series and the occasional stand alone thriller. Her most recent book out now is THE MISSING WITNESS, part of the Quinn & Costa series. In June Allison is launching a new Phoenix-set series about a family of private investigators starting with YOU'LL NEVER FIND ME.
You can reach Allison through Goodreads or her website.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 334 reviews
September 24, 2021
Investigative reporter Maxine (Max) Revere is covering the trial of murderer Adam Bachman for her network. She’s the host of Maximum Exposure and this is a different role from that. Bachman is charged with the murders of five people and the evidence is irrefutable, however Max believes not only are there more but he didn’t act alone. As she looks under more rocks, Max keeps finding more evidence to explore her theory. Of course, the district attorney wants no part of this as he’s just days from a guilty verdict. When Bachman agrees to an interview with Max, things take a dangerous turn following that meeting.
Wow. I was into the story from the start but was completely unprepared for that sinister turn it took soon after that interview with Bachman. I struggled to find stopping points (this is a long story on audio) and found most of what ensued to be extremely chilling. Max had to rely on her team and the men in her life to step up and do that quickly. For a long time I was baffled by the mystery and who these partners of Bachman might be but did eventually muster up a credible theory.
We learn even more about Max’s past that sheds light upon the events that truly shaped her. I am now glad I chose to listen to the book despite being unfamiliar with the narrator. Her storytelling skills were exceptional, pacing everything perfectly and ratcheting up the emotions in just the right places. Max’s relationships with Detective Nick Santini and FBI Agent Marco Lopez play a large part and that dynamic was really interesting. This was excellent on so many levels. I rarely say this about my series reading but this one stands alone very well if you’re unwilling to start from the beginning.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
Wow. I was into the story from the start but was completely unprepared for that sinister turn it took soon after that interview with Bachman. I struggled to find stopping points (this is a long story on audio) and found most of what ensued to be extremely chilling. Max had to rely on her team and the men in her life to step up and do that quickly. For a long time I was baffled by the mystery and who these partners of Bachman might be but did eventually muster up a credible theory.
We learn even more about Max’s past that sheds light upon the events that truly shaped her. I am now glad I chose to listen to the book despite being unfamiliar with the narrator. Her storytelling skills were exceptional, pacing everything perfectly and ratcheting up the emotions in just the right places. Max’s relationships with Detective Nick Santini and FBI Agent Marco Lopez play a large part and that dynamic was really interesting. This was excellent on so many levels. I rarely say this about my series reading but this one stands alone very well if you’re unwilling to start from the beginning.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
July 4, 2016
The story was thrilling and the narration was amazing! Loving this series! May or may not write a proper review.
September 24, 2021
Investigative Reporter Maxine Revere believes the missing persons case she is working has ties to serial killer Adam Bachman. Bachman is currently on trial for the kidnapping and attempted murder of a woman in New York City. Evidence of five other murders were found in his apartment. But Max believes that Bachman may have had a partner who kidnapped Jim & Sandy Palazzolo over a year ago. Their bodies were never found. After an intense interview with Bachman and with the help of new intern Riley Butler and bodyguard/assistant David Kane, Max digs into Bachman's past. The clues she finds convinces her that she is right about a second killer. It also puts her in the killer's spotlight.
This is the second book in the Max Revere series. I found this story entertaining, but the convoluted plot had my eyes rolling a couple of times. On the plus side, we got to see Max's ex, FBI Agent Marco Lopez, and her current lover, Detective Nick Santini, working together to rescue Max. I found scenes with these two guys to be riveting. My rating: 3.5 Stars.
This is the second book in the Max Revere series. I found this story entertaining, but the convoluted plot had my eyes rolling a couple of times. On the plus side, we got to see Max's ex, FBI Agent Marco Lopez, and her current lover, Detective Nick Santini, working together to rescue Max. I found scenes with these two guys to be riveting. My rating: 3.5 Stars.
April 17, 2015
Review posted on Kindles & Wine
You might remember from my review of Notorious last year that I was left wanting more where Maxine Revere’s personal life was concerned, so I thoroughly enjoyed learning more about Max both personally and professionally while reading Compulsion . Her personality certainly hasn’t changed. She challenges everyone around her as she tries to pull details together to understand a recent series of murders that she thinks is connected to a cold case she is also investigating. In typical Max fashion, she rubs people the wrong way as she pushes for information and shares theories that others don’t want to hear. I loved her tenacious attitude and her inability to give in to others, even if it means upsetting them.
In Compulsion , there is a slight change in Max in that she feels spread a bit too thin. That is where a new character to the series, Riley Butler, plays an important role. As a recently hired intern at Maximum Exposure, Max can tell that Riley’s instincts are good, so she mentors her throughout the story. I liked the relationship that forms between Max and Riley, especially since Max doesn’t let others get too close to her. I am looking forward to seeing if Riley will continue working with Max in an impactful way in future books of the series and if she will become a recurring character.
In amongst Max feeling like she is a bit out of control with her workload, her personal life continually demonstrates complexities. I loved how this entire book felt like a collision between her past and present both personally and professionally. Speaking of her personal life, “personal” is a key word throughout this story. As the investigation evolves, it becomes clear to everyone, including Max herself, that there is something personal about this case; however, no one can pinpoint exactly what it was. Even though Max feels overwhelmed by her workload, she follows her gut instincts, demonstrating time and again her impeccable attention to detail and how her perceptiveness is a strength. These were characteristics of Max I loved. I also enjoyed the realizations she came to grips with during the story and the impact they had on her character.
Throughout Compulsion , Max needs help from many people, and those who care deeply for her didn’t disappoint. This was one of my favorite aspects of this book. David (Max’s friend and right-hand man at Maximum Exposure), Nick (her most recent love interest she met in Book 1), and Marco (her FBI ex-boyfriend) all vie for her attention. I loved the banter between Nick and Marco, and the protective nature that David exhibited many times throughout. The way Allison Brennan wrote Max’s relationship with each of these alpha males and demonstrated the importance of each relationship was both humorous and touching.
I would have liked more romantic encounters in Compulsion , especially since Max and Nick had some great sexy time in Notorious , although I recognize this story didn’t lend too much to this. That being said, I still loved how the relationships were handled and how impactful each man in Max’s life was to the story.
I once again loved Brennan’s writing style. The details of the case were very well written. I really enjoyed seeing Max’s more typical investigative process, which we didn’t get to see fully in Book 1. Her office space, her timelines, and the consultations she seeks throughout all gave me an amazing glimpse into her mind and into the details of the case. I also enjoyed how the things she comments on or witnesses in passing throughout the story became critical to the case later. Brennan is a masterful suspense writer and there were surprises all the way to the end. I can’t wait to experience more of this series!
Since this is just the second book of the series, I would recommend reading Notorious first, as there is meaningful background information on Max’s past and her relationships with the characters in Compulsion that provide important details to this story.
Bottom Line
I really enjoyed Compulsion , the second book of the Max Revere series. Even though I would have liked a bit more romance sprinkled in, I loved the suspense and personal nature of this story. Allison Brennan’s attention to detail on each complex aspect of Max’s case and how the key characters worked together in this story make this a must-read!
Rating: A- (4 ½ stars)
Note: I received a review copy of this title courtesy of the publisher via NetGalley.
You might remember from my review of Notorious last year that I was left wanting more where Maxine Revere’s personal life was concerned, so I thoroughly enjoyed learning more about Max both personally and professionally while reading Compulsion . Her personality certainly hasn’t changed. She challenges everyone around her as she tries to pull details together to understand a recent series of murders that she thinks is connected to a cold case she is also investigating. In typical Max fashion, she rubs people the wrong way as she pushes for information and shares theories that others don’t want to hear. I loved her tenacious attitude and her inability to give in to others, even if it means upsetting them.
In Compulsion , there is a slight change in Max in that she feels spread a bit too thin. That is where a new character to the series, Riley Butler, plays an important role. As a recently hired intern at Maximum Exposure, Max can tell that Riley’s instincts are good, so she mentors her throughout the story. I liked the relationship that forms between Max and Riley, especially since Max doesn’t let others get too close to her. I am looking forward to seeing if Riley will continue working with Max in an impactful way in future books of the series and if she will become a recurring character.
In amongst Max feeling like she is a bit out of control with her workload, her personal life continually demonstrates complexities. I loved how this entire book felt like a collision between her past and present both personally and professionally. Speaking of her personal life, “personal” is a key word throughout this story. As the investigation evolves, it becomes clear to everyone, including Max herself, that there is something personal about this case; however, no one can pinpoint exactly what it was. Even though Max feels overwhelmed by her workload, she follows her gut instincts, demonstrating time and again her impeccable attention to detail and how her perceptiveness is a strength. These were characteristics of Max I loved. I also enjoyed the realizations she came to grips with during the story and the impact they had on her character.
Throughout Compulsion , Max needs help from many people, and those who care deeply for her didn’t disappoint. This was one of my favorite aspects of this book. David (Max’s friend and right-hand man at Maximum Exposure), Nick (her most recent love interest she met in Book 1), and Marco (her FBI ex-boyfriend) all vie for her attention. I loved the banter between Nick and Marco, and the protective nature that David exhibited many times throughout. The way Allison Brennan wrote Max’s relationship with each of these alpha males and demonstrated the importance of each relationship was both humorous and touching.
I would have liked more romantic encounters in Compulsion , especially since Max and Nick had some great sexy time in Notorious , although I recognize this story didn’t lend too much to this. That being said, I still loved how the relationships were handled and how impactful each man in Max’s life was to the story.
I once again loved Brennan’s writing style. The details of the case were very well written. I really enjoyed seeing Max’s more typical investigative process, which we didn’t get to see fully in Book 1. Her office space, her timelines, and the consultations she seeks throughout all gave me an amazing glimpse into her mind and into the details of the case. I also enjoyed how the things she comments on or witnesses in passing throughout the story became critical to the case later. Brennan is a masterful suspense writer and there were surprises all the way to the end. I can’t wait to experience more of this series!
Since this is just the second book of the series, I would recommend reading Notorious first, as there is meaningful background information on Max’s past and her relationships with the characters in Compulsion that provide important details to this story.
Bottom Line
I really enjoyed Compulsion , the second book of the Max Revere series. Even though I would have liked a bit more romance sprinkled in, I loved the suspense and personal nature of this story. Allison Brennan’s attention to detail on each complex aspect of Max’s case and how the key characters worked together in this story make this a must-read!
Rating: A- (4 ½ stars)
Note: I received a review copy of this title courtesy of the publisher via NetGalley.
April 3, 2017
-Disclaimer: I won this book for free through goodreads giveaways in exchange for an honest review.-
This book could not keep a steady pace. It would be fast then slow then fast then slow. Making the book confusing and hard to picture. Too long of a book and the writing is not very clear. This book is a mystery novel and it still remains a mystery to me. Because when I finished it I still don't know what the hell I read. If you decide to read this post your review in the comments and let me know if you figured it out.
This book could not keep a steady pace. It would be fast then slow then fast then slow. Making the book confusing and hard to picture. Too long of a book and the writing is not very clear. This book is a mystery novel and it still remains a mystery to me. Because when I finished it I still don't know what the hell I read. If you decide to read this post your review in the comments and let me know if you figured it out.
March 18, 2015
Compulsion is a riveting story. I haven’t read crime drama or a psychological thriller for some time, so this book gave me my much needed fix! This is the first book I have read by Allison Brennan, therefore my first in the Max Revere series. Brennan did a great job at explaining some of the back stories and characters, but I definitely want to go back to her first in the series for the full story on Maxine.
This book has complex characters with some “complicated” relationships. Max is successful, smart, attractive, everything a man would want in a woman. Her fatal flaw in regards to relationships is not being able to open up—although we could blame that on her chaotic upbringing. Marco still pines for Max, even though she has moved on with Nick. Then there is David, her unfailingly loyal bodyguard/assistant/chauffeur/etc. David loves Max, just not in a romantic way. Lucky for Max, all of these men are there for her when she really needs them.
While she is definitely not some damsel in distress, Max ends up needing a lot of help from her friends when she gets involved in a kidnapping case. Max’s intuition tells her that the man who is on trial for this crime has not only committed many other crimes, he is not acting alone. The D.A. is reluctant to act on Max’s theory and she decides to do some investigating on her own.
This is a very suspenseful book. It had my attention to the last page. I would recommend this book—especially to those who like psychological thrillers. Compulsion will not disappoint you!
Reviewed by Joelle for Cocktails and Books
This book has complex characters with some “complicated” relationships. Max is successful, smart, attractive, everything a man would want in a woman. Her fatal flaw in regards to relationships is not being able to open up—although we could blame that on her chaotic upbringing. Marco still pines for Max, even though she has moved on with Nick. Then there is David, her unfailingly loyal bodyguard/assistant/chauffeur/etc. David loves Max, just not in a romantic way. Lucky for Max, all of these men are there for her when she really needs them.
While she is definitely not some damsel in distress, Max ends up needing a lot of help from her friends when she gets involved in a kidnapping case. Max’s intuition tells her that the man who is on trial for this crime has not only committed many other crimes, he is not acting alone. The D.A. is reluctant to act on Max’s theory and she decides to do some investigating on her own.
This is a very suspenseful book. It had my attention to the last page. I would recommend this book—especially to those who like psychological thrillers. Compulsion will not disappoint you!
Reviewed by Joelle for Cocktails and Books
February 11, 2018
It took half of the book to really get the suspense running, which was different from the first two installments of the series. This mainly resulted in a lower rating, combined with a simpeler story line. Overall it was still a good read, with a huge plottwist near the end. Brennan has the power to let you experience the book as if you are watching a detective series on tv at full speed!
October 1, 2021
Max Revere investigates the crimes of a serial killer and the possibility that he isn’t working alone.
I have never experienced a character like Max Revere before. I love of good strong female lead, but Max has something different. She is determined, stubborn, confident, and caring. Seeing her almost break in the book was heart wrenching. Psychological trauma is dangerous and it never goes away.
Max’s ex, Marco, and her current flame, Nick Santini, show up for this one and I loved seeing the two of them verbally duck it out. Although Marco is good at his job, he’s also so cocky that it’s almost sickening. Nick is also very good at his job, but his attitude and calm personality is refreshing. He’s a good match for Max and I hope we see more of him.
David, poor David. This was a rough one for him. I think Max will be able to calm his nerves, though. David is very serious about his job and takes it hard when he thinks he has failed Max. The incident in this book was beyond his control and I hope he learns to understand that. Max relieves on him so much.
The case in this book has me hooked from the start. There is obviously something off about Adam Bachman and why no one but Max can see it is beyond me. Her partner theory made perfect sense. I feel like the D.A. just wanted the case closed and move on. It’s so sad when there are still 2 people missing. There are a few twists and a lot of suspense to keep the reader on the edge of their seat.
I have never experienced a character like Max Revere before. I love of good strong female lead, but Max has something different. She is determined, stubborn, confident, and caring. Seeing her almost break in the book was heart wrenching. Psychological trauma is dangerous and it never goes away.
Max’s ex, Marco, and her current flame, Nick Santini, show up for this one and I loved seeing the two of them verbally duck it out. Although Marco is good at his job, he’s also so cocky that it’s almost sickening. Nick is also very good at his job, but his attitude and calm personality is refreshing. He’s a good match for Max and I hope we see more of him.
David, poor David. This was a rough one for him. I think Max will be able to calm his nerves, though. David is very serious about his job and takes it hard when he thinks he has failed Max. The incident in this book was beyond his control and I hope he learns to understand that. Max relieves on him so much.
The case in this book has me hooked from the start. There is obviously something off about Adam Bachman and why no one but Max can see it is beyond me. Her partner theory made perfect sense. I feel like the D.A. just wanted the case closed and move on. It’s so sad when there are still 2 people missing. There are a few twists and a lot of suspense to keep the reader on the edge of their seat.
September 26, 2021
This is a great mystery and we get to know a lot more about Max and what makes her tick. Brennan has a character in Max with a whole lot of layers and peeling them back is a reader's delight.
Maxine Revere is an investigative reporter and she is a very good one. She is stuck in court for the trial of Adam Bachman who is accused of murdering five people. Court duty is not Max's favorite thing, but there is something about Adam that just doesn't jive. She is much more concerned about an older couple who disappeared last summer.
Max scores a coveted interview with Bachman and comes away with more questions than answers. She is convinced Adam was working with someone, but the DA is not about to disrupt his case by giving the jury any doubt and refuses to consider Max's theory. But that is not about to derail Max.
As Max peels back the layers of this case she finds she can't ignore that a lot of what has happened is related to her. She will need all the help she can get to solve this case and stay alive.
Maxine Revere is an investigative reporter and she is a very good one. She is stuck in court for the trial of Adam Bachman who is accused of murdering five people. Court duty is not Max's favorite thing, but there is something about Adam that just doesn't jive. She is much more concerned about an older couple who disappeared last summer.
Max scores a coveted interview with Bachman and comes away with more questions than answers. She is convinced Adam was working with someone, but the DA is not about to disrupt his case by giving the jury any doubt and refuses to consider Max's theory. But that is not about to derail Max.
As Max peels back the layers of this case she finds she can't ignore that a lot of what has happened is related to her. She will need all the help she can get to solve this case and stay alive.
February 15, 2015
When I first saw this title available for review, I immediately jumped on it. I enjoyed the last Max Revere novel and felt that this would be more of the same. I was correct.
Maxine "Max" Revere, investigative reporter is covering the murder trial of serial killer Adam Bachman.
Max pulls some strings and gets a pre-trial interview with Bachman. From what he says and her own experience in dealing with serial killers, she feels that Bachman has a partner. He's too smooth and Max feels someone must be helping him.
Max has also been asked to try to find the missing parents of a family who had gotten in touch with her. The parents were in New York from their Ohio home for a little vacation but they never returned.
David Kane is Max's assistant and body guard, Riley Butler is her new protege and office assistant. Together they are able to find links to the missing parents and more about Bachman's past.
What Max doesn't know is that much of what she learns has been staged. Someone is gunning for her for some mysterious reasons and as these people appear in the story, the suspense mounts like the downward ride of a ski jump.
As a hard core mystery fan I found the mixing of Max's prior cases and early life with the facts of this case refreshing and entertaining. I would rate this as one of the more compelling novels I've read this year.
Maxine "Max" Revere, investigative reporter is covering the murder trial of serial killer Adam Bachman.
Max pulls some strings and gets a pre-trial interview with Bachman. From what he says and her own experience in dealing with serial killers, she feels that Bachman has a partner. He's too smooth and Max feels someone must be helping him.
Max has also been asked to try to find the missing parents of a family who had gotten in touch with her. The parents were in New York from their Ohio home for a little vacation but they never returned.
David Kane is Max's assistant and body guard, Riley Butler is her new protege and office assistant. Together they are able to find links to the missing parents and more about Bachman's past.
What Max doesn't know is that much of what she learns has been staged. Someone is gunning for her for some mysterious reasons and as these people appear in the story, the suspense mounts like the downward ride of a ski jump.
As a hard core mystery fan I found the mixing of Max's prior cases and early life with the facts of this case refreshing and entertaining. I would rate this as one of the more compelling novels I've read this year.
February 15, 2022
-Technically, this book deserves 3 or 4 stars, but because I can’t stand the MC I am not doing that.
-You can have a strong female character without her being a selfish, narcissistic, obsessive, unapologetic, ruthless, manipulative b**ch who can’t see or acknowledge when she is wrong, or even consider or accept the notion she might be wrong.
-Intriguing plot (if a little scary for my tastes)
-I believe there were 8 different POVs!! 🤯
-There was one part at the end where I was so very afraid my favorite character was going to die, that my heart was pounding 😳😱😨
-I did dislike the MC (Max) a little less at the end, although that may well have been because she was a bit traumatized/had a reality check/was taken down a peg😓
-I am also slightly annoyed, because even though I very much dislike the MC, I kind of want to read the next book😒
June 29, 2018
While the first book in this series was just ok for me I really enjoyed this second one a lot!
The Good: Maxine was a little hard to like in the first book. As an investigative reporter she digs for the truth often to the point of causing some people emotional distress, like her family. In this one she is forced to acknowledge her shortcomings (and there are many). It was nice to see her so vulnerable. We also got to know more about David and Marco. Love David by the way.
The suspense did take nearly half the book to really take off. The first half is interesting though because we see Max's methodology in researching the cold cases in addition to the beginnings of a trial. These aspects, I felt, were really well written. And oh boy! When the suspense took off it did. Maxine proved she is not only a strong independent woman but a kick ass survivor.
The Bad: Even though I really liked this book I thought the mystery kind of got really convoluted and complex. I think simpler might have been a little better but ultimately I did enjoy the mystery as well. Also just an FYI this is light on the romance so if you're looking for some hotness this one is really mild with the smooching and the wet parts.
In a Nutshell: I totally liked reading this second book in the Maxine Revere series and I'm really looking forward to the third book.
The Good: Maxine was a little hard to like in the first book. As an investigative reporter she digs for the truth often to the point of causing some people emotional distress, like her family. In this one she is forced to acknowledge her shortcomings (and there are many). It was nice to see her so vulnerable. We also got to know more about David and Marco. Love David by the way.
The suspense did take nearly half the book to really take off. The first half is interesting though because we see Max's methodology in researching the cold cases in addition to the beginnings of a trial. These aspects, I felt, were really well written. And oh boy! When the suspense took off it did. Maxine proved she is not only a strong independent woman but a kick ass survivor.
The Bad: Even though I really liked this book I thought the mystery kind of got really convoluted and complex. I think simpler might have been a little better but ultimately I did enjoy the mystery as well. Also just an FYI this is light on the romance so if you're looking for some hotness this one is really mild with the smooching and the wet parts.
In a Nutshell: I totally liked reading this second book in the Maxine Revere series and I'm really looking forward to the third book.
March 13, 2015
Compulsion
By
Allison Brennan
Key characters...and what is going down with them...
Max and her friends are the key characters in this novel. This is not the first book with Max as its central character and the author does a beautiful job of referring to and tying in other characters as well as events from other books. I see Max as beautiful, tough and damaged...but this makes her excellent at what she does...investigative reporting and using her gut to sniff out the bad guys. And in this book...as in this author's other Max books...the bad guy is creepy, weird and illusive. In this book...the perpetrator...Adam Bachman...is behind bars and going through his trial but Max has the feeling that he has a helper...an accomplice...and that this someone else is very much involved. The paths taken by Max and her friends are scary and tricky and that made this book UNPUTDOWNABLE for me. The premise? Five girls taken...five girls dead...another girl found in the trunk of her car while Adam is driving it...all fingers point to Adam...or do they? And all of this knowledge...this digging that Max is doing...just may place her in the line of fire.
Settings...
The main areas for this book were in and around NYC.
What I thought about this book...
I have read other books starring Max (by this author) so reading this book was like revisiting an old friend. The mystery...the puzzle...is there and Max will solve it. I love that this book is a slow easy reading experience. Three quarters of the way through this book I still had no clue who the other "bad guy" was...I love not knowing and being surprised. In other words...the ending was amazing!
Why you might want to read it, too...
If you are a fan of these books...this will be one that mystery lovers will want to read. If you are new to this character...you can still thoroughly enjoy this one without reading any of the others first...but...trust me...you will want to. This is a big, bold and awesome mystery. I loved it!
By
Allison Brennan
Key characters...and what is going down with them...
Max and her friends are the key characters in this novel. This is not the first book with Max as its central character and the author does a beautiful job of referring to and tying in other characters as well as events from other books. I see Max as beautiful, tough and damaged...but this makes her excellent at what she does...investigative reporting and using her gut to sniff out the bad guys. And in this book...as in this author's other Max books...the bad guy is creepy, weird and illusive. In this book...the perpetrator...Adam Bachman...is behind bars and going through his trial but Max has the feeling that he has a helper...an accomplice...and that this someone else is very much involved. The paths taken by Max and her friends are scary and tricky and that made this book UNPUTDOWNABLE for me. The premise? Five girls taken...five girls dead...another girl found in the trunk of her car while Adam is driving it...all fingers point to Adam...or do they? And all of this knowledge...this digging that Max is doing...just may place her in the line of fire.
Settings...
The main areas for this book were in and around NYC.
What I thought about this book...
I have read other books starring Max (by this author) so reading this book was like revisiting an old friend. The mystery...the puzzle...is there and Max will solve it. I love that this book is a slow easy reading experience. Three quarters of the way through this book I still had no clue who the other "bad guy" was...I love not knowing and being surprised. In other words...the ending was amazing!
Why you might want to read it, too...
If you are a fan of these books...this will be one that mystery lovers will want to read. If you are new to this character...you can still thoroughly enjoy this one without reading any of the others first...but...trust me...you will want to. This is a big, bold and awesome mystery. I loved it!
July 23, 2018
I definitely enjoyed this second book in the Max Revere series more than the first. Characters and backstory had been established in the first book, so Compulsion gets right into the crime/mystery. We get a much better picture of WHO Maxine is in this book and some of the reasons for her -- shall we say -- personality quirks.
The investigation in this book was pretty interesting and kept me guessing, even when you knew who the culprits were. My only complaint was there were quite a few drawn out passages that I could have done without. This made some portions of the book boring and a bit of a struggle. Fortunately, I found the events happening interesting enough to not let those few humps get in the way.
I also liked the fact that we got to know David, Marco, and Nick each a little better and what makes each of them tick. These three are currently the most important gentlemen in Max's life and, so far, I like the dynamics of each one's relationship with her. Getting to know David and Marco a little better, especially, gives the reader a better understanding of exactly why they are/were important to Max at different stages of her life and career.
Looking forward to book three and the next investigation Max gets herself involved with.
The investigation in this book was pretty interesting and kept me guessing, even when you knew who the culprits were. My only complaint was there were quite a few drawn out passages that I could have done without. This made some portions of the book boring and a bit of a struggle. Fortunately, I found the events happening interesting enough to not let those few humps get in the way.
I also liked the fact that we got to know David, Marco, and Nick each a little better and what makes each of them tick. These three are currently the most important gentlemen in Max's life and, so far, I like the dynamics of each one's relationship with her. Getting to know David and Marco a little better, especially, gives the reader a better understanding of exactly why they are/were important to Max at different stages of her life and career.
Looking forward to book three and the next investigation Max gets herself involved with.
April 15, 2015
Allison Brennan really can't write a bad novel, and with Max Revere she has a character with whom she can do so much. No spoilers here, just saying that the story and mystery are good, and the tension of the last 2/3's is unremitting. What I particularly liked about this second Max Revere book is the character growth that she undergoes. Reminds me a lot of the first two In Death Books. Like Eve Dallas, Max is not a particularly lovable or likeable character in her first outing. Her obsessive search for the truth at all costs leaves her not caring about secondary effects. With this second novel, she starts examining her overall approach - and life - given the circumstances under which she finds herself, making her start to emerge as a much more rounded - maybe even likeable - person. The author has done a great job of starting that progression. Supporting characters are also given much greater roles in this than in the first and you get to know them much better as well. Terrific story, great suspense, intriguing future. Bring on #3.
August 5, 2015
Another interesting mystery to solve in this book. Many twists and turns and the added bonus of Marco, Max's ex lover, and Nick her current lover, forced to work together make for entertaining reading. I am enjoying this series.
December 14, 2018
On paper, this sounded like a great read and the last part is but the beginning and most of the middle read like an episode of law and order episode that was rejected.
December 11, 2023
2.5 stars
I wasn't as fond of this book as the first one.
First of all, court proceedings aren't my cup of tea. The boredom expressed by the characters between things actually happening is a mild version of MY boredom from waiting for something substantial to actually happen.
My main issue with this book was all the "Hindsight is 20/20" Scenes that kept popping up like mushrooms in the forest, one after the other.
Characters go: "Oh, I should have known better! I should have seen this coming! I should have acted this way or another!" - more or less directly after something goes terribly wrong.
Of course, before it went terribly wrong, my frustrated ass was sitting there, mentally shouting at them, what was (obviously) going to go wrong.
It was a disturbing pattern, to say the least.
Stupid things kept happening, simply because. And the author clearly knew it was stupid and didn't really fit with the character set-up so she kept writing "excuses" for the characters. Over and over and over.
*sigh*
The mystery and obsession was really far out there - and really far-fetched, too.
Don't get me wrong, I liked it, but I thought the book took forever to get to the point. It felt twice as long as it actually was and not as adrenaline pumped as the first one.
The stakes were very high, but the flow of the story wasn't as dynamic or well-paced as the first book.
Repetitions of certain things were made in absurdum, like the mentioning of Max spending time in a Mexican jail - as if you had just forgotten the last mention, less than 5 minutes ago!
It was a bit of a shame.
My initial reaction to Max's touch or narcissism in book 1 was addressed in a quite brutal way in this book. I'm not sure she'll come out on the other side unchanged. Maybe there will be a change for the better, who knows.
Can't say I'll mourn Riley if she never returns though.
I suspect I'll find out sooner or later, but sadly this book didn't leave me with that instant want to jump straight onto the next book as the first one did.
I wasn't as fond of this book as the first one.
First of all, court proceedings aren't my cup of tea. The boredom expressed by the characters between things actually happening is a mild version of MY boredom from waiting for something substantial to actually happen.
My main issue with this book was all the "Hindsight is 20/20" Scenes that kept popping up like mushrooms in the forest, one after the other.
Characters go: "Oh, I should have known better! I should have seen this coming! I should have acted this way or another!" - more or less directly after something goes terribly wrong.
Of course, before it went terribly wrong, my frustrated ass was sitting there, mentally shouting at them, what was (obviously) going to go wrong.
It was a disturbing pattern, to say the least.
Stupid things kept happening, simply because. And the author clearly knew it was stupid and didn't really fit with the character set-up so she kept writing "excuses" for the characters. Over and over and over.
*sigh*
The mystery and obsession was really far out there - and really far-fetched, too.
Don't get me wrong, I liked it, but I thought the book took forever to get to the point. It felt twice as long as it actually was and not as adrenaline pumped as the first one.
The stakes were very high, but the flow of the story wasn't as dynamic or well-paced as the first book.
Repetitions of certain things were made in absurdum, like the mentioning of Max spending time in a Mexican jail - as if you had just forgotten the last mention, less than 5 minutes ago!
It was a bit of a shame.
My initial reaction to Max's touch or narcissism in book 1 was addressed in a quite brutal way in this book. I'm not sure she'll come out on the other side unchanged. Maybe there will be a change for the better, who knows.
Can't say I'll mourn Riley if she never returns though.
I suspect I'll find out sooner or later, but sadly this book didn't leave me with that instant want to jump straight onto the next book as the first one did.
April 22, 2017
This series is and excellent series so far. It is a little different because it is from the aspect of a reporter, not the prosecutors, police, or victims. It puts and interesting look on the crimes that are occurring.
Max is hard-nosed and ,tuff but you can get to her softer side if you know how. This storyline is exciting, thrilling, and breathtaking!there are many twists along the way, but there is one major shocker, at the end. You will not see this coming. You need to pay close attention, in the beginning of the book. Even with that bit of knowledge, I bet you still want to figure it out. Read the book and see if I am right or wrongc
Max is hard-nosed and ,tuff but you can get to her softer side if you know how. This storyline is exciting, thrilling, and breathtaking!there are many twists along the way, but there is one major shocker, at the end. You will not see this coming. You need to pay close attention, in the beginning of the book. Even with that bit of knowledge, I bet you still want to figure it out. Read the book and see if I am right or wrongc
August 27, 2017
Installment #2 in the Max Revere series finds her back at home in New York City and working on a story about a serial killer, Adam Bachman. She’s drawn into the case by the children of a couple who are believed to be victims of the killer. It’s the usual procedural drama with Max and her new assistant, Riley, systematically unraveling the disappearance of the couple and the identity of Bachman’s accomplice. We get some additional background info about Max and her early years with her mother, Martha, before she leaves her, at age 10, to be raised by her grandmother. Her boss, Ben, her body guard, David, new, hot boyfriend Nick Santini and old, hot boyfriend, Marco Lopez are all involved in the drama. Nicely paced, looking forward to installment #3, Poisonous.
July 12, 2018
Second book in the Max Revere series and as good as the first. Mystery, suspense at it’s finest.
This book contains a multitude of very sick people. My kind of book! Max is covering a high profile case involving the murder of four people, minimum! She is an investigative reporter and becomes the next kidnap target.
She is a no nonsense, I got this, doing it my way, hands on reporter until the case she is covering becomes more than she had first assumed. Her personal history is used against her in a battle to uncover the truth, make her pay and ultimately end her career and her life.
I loved this book and am looking forward to reading the next Max Revere book in this series.
This book contains a multitude of very sick people. My kind of book! Max is covering a high profile case involving the murder of four people, minimum! She is an investigative reporter and becomes the next kidnap target.
She is a no nonsense, I got this, doing it my way, hands on reporter until the case she is covering becomes more than she had first assumed. Her personal history is used against her in a battle to uncover the truth, make her pay and ultimately end her career and her life.
I loved this book and am looking forward to reading the next Max Revere book in this series.
June 4, 2017
I enjoyed this novel much more than the first one. I was captivated by the story right away and didn't want to put it down.
It really does feel like Max is a detective though, and not a reporter. She gets things that she should not be able to and better than most. I get that she is an investigative reporter but I guess she is just really good at her job, minus the other stuff.. haha
I am looking forward to continuing the series as I have really grown to like the characters.
Good Read!
It really does feel like Max is a detective though, and not a reporter. She gets things that she should not be able to and better than most. I get that she is an investigative reporter but I guess she is just really good at her job, minus the other stuff.. haha
I am looking forward to continuing the series as I have really grown to like the characters.
Good Read!
June 10, 2018
Allison Brennan's character Max Revere is arrogant, passionate and driven. The type of person who feels that whatever she does to get to the truth as she sees it is justified. When she is kidnapped and almost killed she needs to take a hard look at herself and what she does. Fast paced with edge of your seat suspense. Max Revere is a character that you will either love or you will hate.
October 7, 2018
An interesting thriller but with some awkward pacing in the beginning and the end. I also felt like the climax was a bit too early in the book so the wrap-up portion at the end seemed to drag on quite a lot. I liked all the characters and felt that they were authentic and not too extreme in their characteristics. Overall, it was a good thriller and would recommend for thriller fans.
**I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.**
**I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.**
January 24, 2019
I don't usually read a series, but so far love this one.
November 30, 2020
Idk if this is a spoiler but the main character was writing full sentences in her diary when she was five and I just find that suspicious.
April 28, 2022
This Story to me, seemed drawn out to the point I was ready to give up... So glad I didn't... WOW what and ENDING *****
May 3, 2025
good writer. however the plot is entirely predictable and the characters are cut outs and not well developed. Insane
February 1, 2019
I’m really enjoying this series...very suspenseful!!
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