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The Nightshade Cases #1
Freak Show
When transsexual starlet Aisling is murdered, Detective Geraldine Meyers is assigned the case. With help from medical examiner Dr. Rachel Hunter, Gerri realizes this is no ordinary killing. While she might not want to call in over-eager anthropologist Dr. Kinsey DanAllart, the detective is forced to trust her friend’s expertise in symbology, even though doing so means admitting “weird” things might be happening in Silver City. As the three friends unravel the mystery of the dancer’s death, one thing is made absolutely apparent—something isn’t right in their new hometown. And someone is doing everything they can to make sure the truth doesn’t come out.
In Silver City, sometimes friendship can be murder.
Welcome to the first Nightshade Case, a series of twenty-one episodes in twenty-one weeks. Please this episodic series is based on the television show model, with screenwriting notations and shorter formats. There will be a complete mystery each week, with cliffhangers only occurring in the full season story line.
In Silver City, sometimes friendship can be murder.
Welcome to the first Nightshade Case, a series of twenty-one episodes in twenty-one weeks. Please this episodic series is based on the television show model, with screenwriting notations and shorter formats. There will be a complete mystery each week, with cliffhangers only occurring in the full season story line.
195 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 13, 2014
95 people are currently reading
281 people want to read
About the author
Patti Larsen
307 books549 followersI write a lot of paranormal books for someone who is afraid of the dark. And I wonder why I have to sleep with the lights on. Sometimes life is a teenaged B horror movie and I'm the one who investigates when the scary music is playing. But the voices are calling and resistance is… Yes. I am a Star Trek geek, too. And a fan of RPG’s. With a slight coolness factor since I've been told I'm allowed to join the pops.
Naw. I like being a nerdy girl :)
Naw. I like being a nerdy girl :)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
August 19, 2014
You can read the original review at JC's Book Haven
NOTE: I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The Good
This book is my first paranormal thriller read and I must say that it was a great first experience. Freak Show is about three friends dealing with their personal and professional life and at the same time also dealing with their "weird" gifts. Gerri is in denial of the paranormal involvement but due to circumstances, Rachel and Kinsey think otherwise. One by one weird stuff happens, forcing the trio to investigate the case from their POV.
The three main characters have strong and well-established personalities and connect with the reader without much difficulty. It's a quick read and ends on a great note. A very unexpected character plays a very important role and that is where I realized that this book is far better than a lot of best-seller books.
What makes The Night Shade Cases more interesting for me, is that they are released weekly in episodes, which gives the reader enough time to think but not enough time to allow the story to start slipping from the mind.
The end was absolutely brilliant and will make you want to get the next book in the series right away.
(PS- I can't describe this book better than this without any spoilers!)
The Bad
The only thing that made me uncomfortable (only to some extent) was the POV of Rachel, who is a lesbian and some other transgender. At one point, Rachel thinking about Gerri was just awful. Though nothing's wrong with the writing and the story, it's just out of my comfort zone.
Also they could have done a better job with the cover!
The Romance
There was no romantic or love relation in particular, just a loving bond of three friends, who'll do anything for each other, though at times I highly doubted that also! Don't you think?
Conclusion
Freak Show has its ups and downs but what really stood out for me was the mystery involved and the thrill I felt during the entire investigation. A few negatives can be overlooked considering the fact that it's the first book, and establishment of characters and their backgrounds (the basics) was quite important. What earned a 4 1/2 rating for this book? The answer would be the pace of the story, twists, turns and surprises and a cliff-hanger ending.
If you like thriller, this book (or I should say this series) is for you. Considering the time required for reading Freak Show, anyone can give it a try and decide for themselves whether or not to get involved in the series.
NOTE: I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The Good
This book is my first paranormal thriller read and I must say that it was a great first experience. Freak Show is about three friends dealing with their personal and professional life and at the same time also dealing with their "weird" gifts. Gerri is in denial of the paranormal involvement but due to circumstances, Rachel and Kinsey think otherwise. One by one weird stuff happens, forcing the trio to investigate the case from their POV.
The three main characters have strong and well-established personalities and connect with the reader without much difficulty. It's a quick read and ends on a great note. A very unexpected character plays a very important role and that is where I realized that this book is far better than a lot of best-seller books.
What makes The Night Shade Cases more interesting for me, is that they are released weekly in episodes, which gives the reader enough time to think but not enough time to allow the story to start slipping from the mind.
The end was absolutely brilliant and will make you want to get the next book in the series right away.
(PS- I can't describe this book better than this without any spoilers!)
The Bad
The only thing that made me uncomfortable (only to some extent) was the POV of Rachel, who is a lesbian and some other transgender. At one point, Rachel thinking about Gerri was just awful. Though nothing's wrong with the writing and the story, it's just out of my comfort zone.
Also they could have done a better job with the cover!
The Romance
There was no romantic or love relation in particular, just a loving bond of three friends, who'll do anything for each other, though at times I highly doubted that also! Don't you think?
Conclusion
Freak Show has its ups and downs but what really stood out for me was the mystery involved and the thrill I felt during the entire investigation. A few negatives can be overlooked considering the fact that it's the first book, and establishment of characters and their backgrounds (the basics) was quite important. What earned a 4 1/2 rating for this book? The answer would be the pace of the story, twists, turns and surprises and a cliff-hanger ending.
If you like thriller, this book (or I should say this series) is for you. Considering the time required for reading Freak Show, anyone can give it a try and decide for themselves whether or not to get involved in the series.
December 17, 2014
Loved this book. A truly exceptional start to this paranormal series. Love the twists and turns, and just when you think you have something figured out, BAM out of nowhere. This book introduces us to three friends from college, who had drifted apart, but are all brought back together in the same city. One is a detective on the police force, one is an ME, and one is a professor at the local college. They all have mysterious ties to Nightshade that they have no clue about, or the paranormal. Can't wait for the rest of the series, I am already addicted.
June 17, 2014
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
Ohhhh yeah... this is gonna be good! Patti is one of my all time favorite authors. I've never not loved anything she has written so I already knew I wouldn't be disappointed with FREAKSHOW. An awesome beginning to her new serial series. I can't wait to get deeper into the girls' characters and see what happens after a very intriguing ending! A great way to fill the time while I wait for more Hayle Universe novels *wink wink*
As always, great writing Patti! I look forward to more Nightshade Cases!!
Ohhhh yeah... this is gonna be good! Patti is one of my all time favorite authors. I've never not loved anything she has written so I already knew I wouldn't be disappointed with FREAKSHOW. An awesome beginning to her new serial series. I can't wait to get deeper into the girls' characters and see what happens after a very intriguing ending! A great way to fill the time while I wait for more Hayle Universe novels *wink wink*
As always, great writing Patti! I look forward to more Nightshade Cases!!
January 3, 2015
Welcome to Silver City . Where three friend have been pulled there . They all have special powers that help them solve the crimes that are happening. But there is something bigger in the works and each episode will bring them together and solve these crimes. Even the weird cases will come their way . When a transsexual is murdered Gerri with the help of her two friends go to work finding out who or what murdered the poor pole dancer
Let me introduce you to the ladies of Night Shades.
Gerri the fierce redhead police detective, she is tough and fierce. She won't admit but the sight of blood makes her hungry . She gets a thrill of going up to a homicide scene. She also has had a tragedy in her life , watching her old partner get murdered and dragged away by something , that can not be explained . She is the leader of the threesome, And actually hates the weird aspect of any murder.
Then there is the sweet medical examiner Dr Rachel Hunter , she has the expertise to know what someone has died from before even doing the autopsy . She can just look at a person and know what they will die from . That made her life hell when she was in medical school. So she decided to head to the morgue.
Then there is Kinsey DanAllart she is the anthropologist that has a knack for symbolism. She is the so insecure one of the three. She has the sense to read people and can comfort and pull things from their minds.
They all have unique talents and when put together they can solve almost anything. These characters are well written with complex layers, They have their quirks like Gerrie wanting to constantly shoot. maim and even kill her new partner. I kind a had to giggle the way that he was pushing her buttons, and she was planning on how to kill him and make it look like an accident. They are a great bunch of characters. With their own quirks and foibles.
This is the first of a 21 week series. There is a mystery to solve every week and will be wrapped up in the book. So really no cliff hangers . As the weeks continue we will find out more about the three main characters .
Pattie takes us on a action packed fun ride with each episode. The twists and turns will keep you reading all night long. It kind a reminds me of the old detective series It is gritty but also funny in some areas. I could so see this a television series . It is also written in that kind of format. I have the next 20 weeks of reading written down, I have them all on my wish list when they come out . I think this is going to be a exciting series to read. I can't wait to see where Pattie will take us next
So if you want a great weekly series to read this summer, while at the beach or at the pool . Check them out cause they rock
June 13, 2014
Three young women who were best friends in college, each went on to make herself respected in the world, in different fields. They find themselves together again in Silver City.
Besides their professional expertise, each of the women has other talents they prefer not to share with the general public. It is those additional talents that will be required in solving the Nightshade Cases.
I am not old enough to have experienced the original 1940s Detective and Crime novels and noir films as new releases, but Freak Show, this first episode of the Nightshade Cases, has that same gritty feel.
I am of the original Charlie's Angels, Starsky & Hutch generation rather than the Twilight generation, but there are twists and turns and “something extra” going on in this series that will appeal to readers of ALL ages.
Freakshow will have you suspecting and guessing as you keep turning the pages.
Your emotions about various characters will evolve as details are exposed.
You are going to LOVE it!
I was fortunate to be gifted an early copy of Episode one but these opinions are honestly mine.
All subsequent episodes are on my automatic MUST READ list.
January 21, 2024
Ugh. Larsen does not seem to understand verb tenses and utterly fails to use the past perfect (had) form of any verb, which is sometimes confusing and often annoying, as is her failure to grasp the importance of the word "that," and her egregious misuse of commas. Her characters range from lackluster to immature and abrasive, either never standing up for themselves, or throwing temper tantrums and literally stomping around and shouting like brats. In addition, it seems Larsen can't be bothered to do even the most rudimentary research into police procedure. All in all, this is a fairly dreadful tome.
March 13, 2021
The jury is still out...
Writing the novel like it was a play was interesting but not my cup of tea. I kept feeling parts of the storyline were falling between the cracks. Understood from the beginning the women were paranormal. Hated Jackson wholeheartedly!! Lots of information still buzzing around in my brain like missing pieces of a puzzle. Definitely a cliffhanger...
Writing the novel like it was a play was interesting but not my cup of tea. I kept feeling parts of the storyline were falling between the cracks. Understood from the beginning the women were paranormal. Hated Jackson wholeheartedly!! Lots of information still buzzing around in my brain like missing pieces of a puzzle. Definitely a cliffhanger...
January 29, 2025
Patti Larsen came to my attention through books in her cozy series, and I would give anything she wrote a try. I like her writing style, her engaging characters, and her interesting story lines. Freak Show is has all of these and more. I’m really excited to have discovered The Nightshades Cases series!
August 5, 2020
Paranormal Thriller Murder Mystery!
Definitely fits all three genre of paranormal, thriller, and murder mystery. Well written, intense, and mystical, with just a touch of creepiness. I actually like the three main characters, but Margo is, let's just say, evil.
Definitely fits all three genre of paranormal, thriller, and murder mystery. Well written, intense, and mystical, with just a touch of creepiness. I actually like the three main characters, but Margo is, let's just say, evil.
August 22, 2020
Hmm..interesting.
February 9, 2021
I Loved This Book
I loved this fast paced and multi-faceted book. The characters were interesting and believable. I will definitely read more from this author.
I loved this fast paced and multi-faceted book. The characters were interesting and believable. I will definitely read more from this author.
March 14, 2021
The book was okay.
Not really my kind of book to read. It was okay and interesting enough. Maybe the second book in the series is better.
Not really my kind of book to read. It was okay and interesting enough. Maybe the second book in the series is better.
December 6, 2024
leaves you needing more
I liked the characters. Some of it is a little confusing because you need to read more to make it all make sense.
I liked the characters. Some of it is a little confusing because you need to read more to make it all make sense.
March 20, 2025
Supernatural drama.
April 3, 2025
Freak Show
This was a truly interesting story. I liked the characters. I could appreciate the feelings our heroines felt. I am looking forward to the next story.
This was a truly interesting story. I liked the characters. I could appreciate the feelings our heroines felt. I am looking forward to the next story.
December 31, 2014
Freak-ing Awesome!
What a unique story told in a very unique way! This is my first time reading any type of serial series or the like, but to have a book that reads quite similar to or like a TV show? Well that is just plain freaky! Or is it? “Welcome to the first Nightshade Case, a series of twenty-one episodes in twenty-one weeks. Please note: this episodic series is based on the television show model, with screenwriting notations and shorter formats. There will be a complete mystery each week, with cliff hangers only occurring in the full season story line.” This is such a terrific story that pulled me in right from the very beginning of the book! It is also a terrific start to a new series!!! Of course, I would expect no less from Patti but being new to this type of format, I wasn’t sure what to expect. It is a very well written story that follows three women who might have some sort of talent or ability, or as they secretly refer to it – what makes them a freak! Because they have a hard time acknowledging it in their own minds, they sure are not going to share or talk about it out loud! That is until they…Yup! I am going to leave you hanging! Just like a “winter break” in your favorite TV show! I don’t want to put any spoilers in here because that is half of the beauty of reading – reading the book and discovering it all for yourself – the other half is of course getting to know, love, root for (or against) all of these great characters who become your new friends (or enemies)! I have even become quite attached to Gerri, Ray and Kinsey as if they are real people that I am honored to call my friends! I like how there is the mystery of the characters, that you are not overloaded with EVERYTHING involving them and their “freak”, and that you get to follow the three girls throughout. I like being able to get different views or opinions on situations. I have to admit that I am really intrigued both with the format it is written in as well as the topic itself. It is worth mentioning that there is a wide variety of topics, people and spice if you will, involved. These are not books for the closed minded or faint of heart type of readers. For example, the story opens with a girl walking through an alley behind the club where she dances at, she is wobbly from the one drink and cocaine that she had earlier, swearing as she talks to herself, the she ends up being murdered in that same alleyway. However, she is not what she seems, for “she” is really a HE! Of course through the investigation there are a more people who are not what they seem – more dancers, bartenders, management etc. that work at the club and are also gay or transsexuals. Don’t forget the people who vehemently oppose this lifestyle like the minister and his flock. But don’t be mistaken to think that this is what the story is about! It is actually about three friends who under their own circumstances all end up making Silver City their new home unbeknownst to each other. One is a homicide detective, one is a medical examiner and the other is an anthropologist who teaches at the college. Reuniting and working to solve the case(s) together has also given them the chance to renew their friendship with each other. They all met in college and became the best of friends, but like a lot of friends, as you get older and more involved in your career, you don’t spend as much time with your friends that you would like. In fact they have only exchanged the odd phone call and birthday cards recently, so they did not realize that they have all ended up in the same city, let alone working the same cases! I found that the format was actually rather cool – instead of numbered chapters you get the setup for the next scene. For example “INT. – SILVER CITY COLLEGE – AFTERNOON”. And even though it does say it is in a shorter format, the book is about 150 pgs. I can’t wait to keep reading to see what is going to happen next in Silver City! I am glad that I am picking this up when it is already a few weeks in. No matter how fast I read, I should always have another episode waiting for me. All in all, I really enjoyed this first episode and am so curious that I cannot wait to read the next one! And the next one, and well you get the picture! So don’t have an episode – read one instead and get your Freak on today! Tune in next time for the next installment of “Freak Show – The Nightshade Cases” written by Patti Larsen, reviewed by Cherri-Anne Boitson.
What a unique story told in a very unique way! This is my first time reading any type of serial series or the like, but to have a book that reads quite similar to or like a TV show? Well that is just plain freaky! Or is it? “Welcome to the first Nightshade Case, a series of twenty-one episodes in twenty-one weeks. Please note: this episodic series is based on the television show model, with screenwriting notations and shorter formats. There will be a complete mystery each week, with cliff hangers only occurring in the full season story line.” This is such a terrific story that pulled me in right from the very beginning of the book! It is also a terrific start to a new series!!! Of course, I would expect no less from Patti but being new to this type of format, I wasn’t sure what to expect. It is a very well written story that follows three women who might have some sort of talent or ability, or as they secretly refer to it – what makes them a freak! Because they have a hard time acknowledging it in their own minds, they sure are not going to share or talk about it out loud! That is until they…Yup! I am going to leave you hanging! Just like a “winter break” in your favorite TV show! I don’t want to put any spoilers in here because that is half of the beauty of reading – reading the book and discovering it all for yourself – the other half is of course getting to know, love, root for (or against) all of these great characters who become your new friends (or enemies)! I have even become quite attached to Gerri, Ray and Kinsey as if they are real people that I am honored to call my friends! I like how there is the mystery of the characters, that you are not overloaded with EVERYTHING involving them and their “freak”, and that you get to follow the three girls throughout. I like being able to get different views or opinions on situations. I have to admit that I am really intrigued both with the format it is written in as well as the topic itself. It is worth mentioning that there is a wide variety of topics, people and spice if you will, involved. These are not books for the closed minded or faint of heart type of readers. For example, the story opens with a girl walking through an alley behind the club where she dances at, she is wobbly from the one drink and cocaine that she had earlier, swearing as she talks to herself, the she ends up being murdered in that same alleyway. However, she is not what she seems, for “she” is really a HE! Of course through the investigation there are a more people who are not what they seem – more dancers, bartenders, management etc. that work at the club and are also gay or transsexuals. Don’t forget the people who vehemently oppose this lifestyle like the minister and his flock. But don’t be mistaken to think that this is what the story is about! It is actually about three friends who under their own circumstances all end up making Silver City their new home unbeknownst to each other. One is a homicide detective, one is a medical examiner and the other is an anthropologist who teaches at the college. Reuniting and working to solve the case(s) together has also given them the chance to renew their friendship with each other. They all met in college and became the best of friends, but like a lot of friends, as you get older and more involved in your career, you don’t spend as much time with your friends that you would like. In fact they have only exchanged the odd phone call and birthday cards recently, so they did not realize that they have all ended up in the same city, let alone working the same cases! I found that the format was actually rather cool – instead of numbered chapters you get the setup for the next scene. For example “INT. – SILVER CITY COLLEGE – AFTERNOON”. And even though it does say it is in a shorter format, the book is about 150 pgs. I can’t wait to keep reading to see what is going to happen next in Silver City! I am glad that I am picking this up when it is already a few weeks in. No matter how fast I read, I should always have another episode waiting for me. All in all, I really enjoyed this first episode and am so curious that I cannot wait to read the next one! And the next one, and well you get the picture! So don’t have an episode – read one instead and get your Freak on today! Tune in next time for the next installment of “Freak Show – The Nightshade Cases” written by Patti Larsen, reviewed by Cherri-Anne Boitson.
August 12, 2014
**** Review Originally Posted at
Pink Fluffy Hearts: Diary of a Coffee Addict ****
"Freak Show" by Patti Larsen is the first ‘episode’ in the series, "The Nightshade Cases". I say ‘episode’, because Larsen has done something a little different with this series. Instead of modeling it like a normal book series, "The Nightshade Cases" is more like a TV show on the page.
"Freak Show" is the first of 21 episodes that are going to be released over 21 weeks, and each one will deal with a new mystery for the characters to solve, but there's also room for an overall arc that will span for the ‘season’. There are even notations like you would see in a screenplay, like the settings and if they're interior or exterior.
I was interested to read this story, because the whole TV show angle isn't something that I've seen in a book series before and I wanted to see how it would pan out. Thankfully, Larsen was able to make it all work. For the most part, "Freak Show" read just like any other book, except instead of being split up by chapter numbers or titles, it was split by the notations for where the scene was set.
This episode deals with the death of Aisling, a transsexual dancer, who was found stabbed to death in the alley by the club she works in, covered in crazy symbols that the police don't know what to do with. Aisling's death is a way for us to meet our three main characters – Gerri the cop, Ray the coroner, and Kinsey the anthropologist/professor. All three of these women have a preexisting relationship since they were friends in college, but after their school years fell out of touch a bit. That is, until all three of them found themselves reconnecting as each one moved to Silver City where the story takes place.
"The Nightshade Cases" is not just a mystery series, though. It also deals with the paranormal. Each of the three main characters has a special ability that's out of the norm, but they also have different degrees of how much they believe in the strange and weird. Even though Gerri has some sort of ‘gut instinct’ that helps her with her cases (way more than a normal detective's finely tuned instincts), she won't let herself believe that there's something paranormal happening.
However, her friends Ray and Kinsey are more open to the idea. Since Ray was a child, she's been able to look at someone and see what is wrong with them, whether they are sick, or even being able to tell how someone died just by looking at them. Kinsey, on the other hand, is just now starting to realize that she can influence the way other people think, and make them see things how she wants.
The three women work well together. Each one of them uses her own set of skills and abilities to help solve the case, and each proves to be an essential part of the team. Gerri, Ray, and Kinsey complement each other nicely and they not only work well together, but you can tell that they are also a good support system for one another as friends. I liked the dynamic that Larsen set up between them, and would like to see more of their teamwork in the future.
While there is paranormal dealings going on behind the scenes, "Freak Show" is mostly a cop drama where the mystery takes center stage. Since this is the first in a series, the characters are still adjusting to their abilities and working them out, and I'm sure there will be more paranormal in future episodes, which is something I'm looking forward to.
Pink Fluffy Hearts: Diary of a Coffee Addict ****
"Freak Show" by Patti Larsen is the first ‘episode’ in the series, "The Nightshade Cases". I say ‘episode’, because Larsen has done something a little different with this series. Instead of modeling it like a normal book series, "The Nightshade Cases" is more like a TV show on the page.
"Freak Show" is the first of 21 episodes that are going to be released over 21 weeks, and each one will deal with a new mystery for the characters to solve, but there's also room for an overall arc that will span for the ‘season’. There are even notations like you would see in a screenplay, like the settings and if they're interior or exterior.
I was interested to read this story, because the whole TV show angle isn't something that I've seen in a book series before and I wanted to see how it would pan out. Thankfully, Larsen was able to make it all work. For the most part, "Freak Show" read just like any other book, except instead of being split up by chapter numbers or titles, it was split by the notations for where the scene was set.
This episode deals with the death of Aisling, a transsexual dancer, who was found stabbed to death in the alley by the club she works in, covered in crazy symbols that the police don't know what to do with. Aisling's death is a way for us to meet our three main characters – Gerri the cop, Ray the coroner, and Kinsey the anthropologist/professor. All three of these women have a preexisting relationship since they were friends in college, but after their school years fell out of touch a bit. That is, until all three of them found themselves reconnecting as each one moved to Silver City where the story takes place.
"The Nightshade Cases" is not just a mystery series, though. It also deals with the paranormal. Each of the three main characters has a special ability that's out of the norm, but they also have different degrees of how much they believe in the strange and weird. Even though Gerri has some sort of ‘gut instinct’ that helps her with her cases (way more than a normal detective's finely tuned instincts), she won't let herself believe that there's something paranormal happening.
However, her friends Ray and Kinsey are more open to the idea. Since Ray was a child, she's been able to look at someone and see what is wrong with them, whether they are sick, or even being able to tell how someone died just by looking at them. Kinsey, on the other hand, is just now starting to realize that she can influence the way other people think, and make them see things how she wants.
The three women work well together. Each one of them uses her own set of skills and abilities to help solve the case, and each proves to be an essential part of the team. Gerri, Ray, and Kinsey complement each other nicely and they not only work well together, but you can tell that they are also a good support system for one another as friends. I liked the dynamic that Larsen set up between them, and would like to see more of their teamwork in the future.
While there is paranormal dealings going on behind the scenes, "Freak Show" is mostly a cop drama where the mystery takes center stage. Since this is the first in a series, the characters are still adjusting to their abilities and working them out, and I'm sure there will be more paranormal in future episodes, which is something I'm looking forward to.
September 2, 2015
Reviewed on Lili Lost in a Book
Freak Show was a very interesting book in that the format of it was very different than your typical novel. It was actually set up like a TV show and I really, really liked that! That was pretty cool and very unique.
But I did have a couple of issues with it. First, I had a hard time getting into it in the beginning because it felt like there was a ton of backstory. I just wanted it to get to the action already, can you blame me? Lol. As for our main characters, well… I have very mixed feelings! I liked them just fine but at the same time I found that I didn’t really connect with them that deeply. I don’t know…
Anyway, so we have these three very different girls who are all the main characters, I suppose: Gerri the homicide detective, Ray the medical examiner who is also on the case with Gerri, and Kinsey, an anthropologist and professor who is called in by Gerri to help out on the case as well. I liked how diverse they all were, bringing something different to the table. I think my favorite was Kinsey, though. I don’t know, she just seemed like a lot of fun.
Another thing I liked was that some paranormal stuff was thrown in as well, and you know how much I love the paranormal! However, I did have a hard time understanding what exactly was going on or what exactly these powers were that were mentioned. But once we get more info, boy was I excited! All I'm saying is, it’s very cool!
Let me tell you something else I love: murder mysteries! I just love them! It’s one of the reasons this book caught my attention. I do admit that some of the plot twists weren’t that surprising (to me), the whole thing—the situation surrounding the mystery of the murders was horrible and you couldn’t help but feel for those victims! It’s awful! This part really reminded me of something you might see on Criminal Minds (which I love!), since they often have very moving episodes.
Overall, I really enjoyed Freak Show! There were a couple issues here and there, but nothing to deter me from enjoying this read! I love murder mysteries but I especially love the splash of paranormal that was thrown in. It didn’t hurt that it was a quick read, too—just how I like them! I think I will definitely be continuing this series, especially since my interest is piqued with all these powers and paranormal things going!
Freak Show was a very interesting book in that the format of it was very different than your typical novel. It was actually set up like a TV show and I really, really liked that! That was pretty cool and very unique.
But I did have a couple of issues with it. First, I had a hard time getting into it in the beginning because it felt like there was a ton of backstory. I just wanted it to get to the action already, can you blame me? Lol. As for our main characters, well… I have very mixed feelings! I liked them just fine but at the same time I found that I didn’t really connect with them that deeply. I don’t know…
Anyway, so we have these three very different girls who are all the main characters, I suppose: Gerri the homicide detective, Ray the medical examiner who is also on the case with Gerri, and Kinsey, an anthropologist and professor who is called in by Gerri to help out on the case as well. I liked how diverse they all were, bringing something different to the table. I think my favorite was Kinsey, though. I don’t know, she just seemed like a lot of fun.
Another thing I liked was that some paranormal stuff was thrown in as well, and you know how much I love the paranormal! However, I did have a hard time understanding what exactly was going on or what exactly these powers were that were mentioned. But once we get more info, boy was I excited! All I'm saying is, it’s very cool!
Let me tell you something else I love: murder mysteries! I just love them! It’s one of the reasons this book caught my attention. I do admit that some of the plot twists weren’t that surprising (to me), the whole thing—the situation surrounding the mystery of the murders was horrible and you couldn’t help but feel for those victims! It’s awful! This part really reminded me of something you might see on Criminal Minds (which I love!), since they often have very moving episodes.
Overall, I really enjoyed Freak Show! There were a couple issues here and there, but nothing to deter me from enjoying this read! I love murder mysteries but I especially love the splash of paranormal that was thrown in. It didn’t hurt that it was a quick read, too—just how I like them! I think I will definitely be continuing this series, especially since my interest is piqued with all these powers and paranormal things going!
September 12, 2014
Ever gotten hooked on the weekly episodes of a television show? The one you cannot miss? I think Patti Larsen has hit on a perfect answer for readers with Freak Show – The Nightshade Cases #1. Has fate drawn three former college roommates to Silver City? Part gritty crime mystery, part paranormal mystery, 100% engaging, a quick read that promises more to come in a week, The Nightshade Cases is a trip on the seamier side of life and death.
Gerri, Kinsey and Ray are professionals, with a close connection and dynamics that work! Each has a special “sense” that gives them an edge. Gerri, the seasoned detective, doesn’t want to commit to her sense, Kinsey and Ray realize they have an ability that is different and more readily embrace those differences. As a medical examiner who treats her "patients" with respect, Ray is exposed to the aftermath of murder and death. Kinsey is an anthropologist, well-versed in symbolism and together these three make Charlie's Angels look like two-dimensional amateurs.
This episode opens full tilt when a popular transsexual dancer who is found murdered and has been carved up with mysterious symbols. Is it a gang murder? A hate crime? Will there be more murders before the villain is discovered?
Follow the dark journey Patti Larsen has mapped out full of mystery, mayhem, and evil lurking in the shadows. Ms. Larsen has set the stage, introduced her characters, given them life and has set them on the trail of a danger only they may be able to stop. Great intrigue, great flow and just enough mystery to hook me in and want more!
Series: The Nightshade Cases - Episode 1
Publication Date: June 12, 2014
Publisher: Patti Larsen Books/Purely Paranormal Press
Genre: Supernatural Mystery-Thriller
Print Length: 153 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Gerri, Kinsey and Ray are professionals, with a close connection and dynamics that work! Each has a special “sense” that gives them an edge. Gerri, the seasoned detective, doesn’t want to commit to her sense, Kinsey and Ray realize they have an ability that is different and more readily embrace those differences. As a medical examiner who treats her "patients" with respect, Ray is exposed to the aftermath of murder and death. Kinsey is an anthropologist, well-versed in symbolism and together these three make Charlie's Angels look like two-dimensional amateurs.
This episode opens full tilt when a popular transsexual dancer who is found murdered and has been carved up with mysterious symbols. Is it a gang murder? A hate crime? Will there be more murders before the villain is discovered?
Follow the dark journey Patti Larsen has mapped out full of mystery, mayhem, and evil lurking in the shadows. Ms. Larsen has set the stage, introduced her characters, given them life and has set them on the trail of a danger only they may be able to stop. Great intrigue, great flow and just enough mystery to hook me in and want more!
Series: The Nightshade Cases - Episode 1
Publication Date: June 12, 2014
Publisher: Patti Larsen Books/Purely Paranormal Press
Genre: Supernatural Mystery-Thriller
Print Length: 153 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
August 13, 2014
You can find my other reviews at: The Titan's Tomb
*I received a copy of this novel from Badass Marketing in exchange for an honest review
Something unnatural is lurking within the shadows of Silver City, and when transsexual starlet Aisling is murdered, it is up to Detective Geraldine (Gerri) Meyers to find the culprit responsible for the perceived hate crime. But with the help of medical examiner Dr. Rachel (Ray) Hunter, Gerri realises that this is no ordinary murder and calls in over-eager anthropologist Dr. Kinsey DanAllart who, with her expertise in symbology, admits that there may be something 'weird' making an appearance within the city. As the three friends race to find the answers to the dancer's death, one thing is made absolutely apparent-something isn't right within their new hometown, and someone is doing everything they can to make sure the truth doesn't come out.
As soon as this book began I was absolutely and positively hooked. The rather genius idea of writing and publishing a story like a television show with cliffhangers and even some subtle screen directions and a couple of crazy advertisements is an idea that I really enjoyed, it made it a lot easier to actually fully picture everything that was going on within the book in my mind. I could see the character's facial expressions, the sets in vivid detail and even feel the subtle malice emanating from certain areas of the story. The characters fully came alive for me and I felt as though I was right along with them every step of the investigation. No character is similar in any possible way, they all have their own quirky attributes and behaviours, but my favourite thing about them was that they always have each other's backs (even if they are hiding their own freaky secrets). All of this mixed with the perfect combination of suspense, crime, horror and supernatural, makes this the perfect book for just about anyone who enjoys a good scare. I cannot wait for the next 'episode', because with all of these cliffhangers and discoveries, I am well and truly dedicated to the world of the Nightshade Cases.
"Follow the fear; only it will lead you to truth."
*I received a copy of this novel from Badass Marketing in exchange for an honest review
Something unnatural is lurking within the shadows of Silver City, and when transsexual starlet Aisling is murdered, it is up to Detective Geraldine (Gerri) Meyers to find the culprit responsible for the perceived hate crime. But with the help of medical examiner Dr. Rachel (Ray) Hunter, Gerri realises that this is no ordinary murder and calls in over-eager anthropologist Dr. Kinsey DanAllart who, with her expertise in symbology, admits that there may be something 'weird' making an appearance within the city. As the three friends race to find the answers to the dancer's death, one thing is made absolutely apparent-something isn't right within their new hometown, and someone is doing everything they can to make sure the truth doesn't come out.
As soon as this book began I was absolutely and positively hooked. The rather genius idea of writing and publishing a story like a television show with cliffhangers and even some subtle screen directions and a couple of crazy advertisements is an idea that I really enjoyed, it made it a lot easier to actually fully picture everything that was going on within the book in my mind. I could see the character's facial expressions, the sets in vivid detail and even feel the subtle malice emanating from certain areas of the story. The characters fully came alive for me and I felt as though I was right along with them every step of the investigation. No character is similar in any possible way, they all have their own quirky attributes and behaviours, but my favourite thing about them was that they always have each other's backs (even if they are hiding their own freaky secrets). All of this mixed with the perfect combination of suspense, crime, horror and supernatural, makes this the perfect book for just about anyone who enjoys a good scare. I cannot wait for the next 'episode', because with all of these cliffhangers and discoveries, I am well and truly dedicated to the world of the Nightshade Cases.
"Follow the fear; only it will lead you to truth."
October 3, 2014
This book was given for me in exchange for an honest review.
Freak Show is Episode 1 of the Nightshade Cases. It's written a bit in the style of a screenplay and I could see this making an excellent TV show. Gerri, Ray, and Kinsey are longtime friends who've all found themselves in Silver City, California, drawn there through offers of employment they couldn't resist.
Through the first few chapters, we meet each woman, and discover that they all carry a unique ability. Gerri gets gut feelings that help her solve crimes. Ray can tell what's killed someone. Kinsey can gently assert her will on others.
The book opens with a transsexual starlet murdered. Gerri catches the case. She doesn't want to believe that there's anything weird going on. In fact, Gerri doesn't want to believe that there's anything weird in the world at all. Kinsey and Ray aren't so resistant. They've both long known that they're special and they want Gerri to admit it too.
I won't give away much more of the story, because this is a short novel and I want you to read it for yourself. I will say that it's worth your time. Like any new series, there are some minor hiccups here and there with the setup, but all in all, Ms. Larsen does a good job giving the reader a little bit of information at a time, only what they need to know. The mystery of the three friends builds slowly, though the mystery of who killed Ainsling moves faster (this is a good thing). Along the way we meet several supporting characters including Gerri's annoying partner, her fatherly captain, and Kinsey's grandmother.
None of the supplemental characters feel flat or unnecessary. They all add to the story. Like any good mystery, there's some misdirection, some misunderstandings, and some mistakes (by the characters). The story moves quickly and is resolved satisfactorily. There's no major cliffhanger here, but the last few pages do open up a whole lot of questions that make me excited for the rest of the series.
Overall, this is a very solid beginning to a series. There were some minor editing issues, a few avenues that could have been explored further, but still quite enjoyable. I'll be reading more.
Freak Show is Episode 1 of the Nightshade Cases. It's written a bit in the style of a screenplay and I could see this making an excellent TV show. Gerri, Ray, and Kinsey are longtime friends who've all found themselves in Silver City, California, drawn there through offers of employment they couldn't resist.
Through the first few chapters, we meet each woman, and discover that they all carry a unique ability. Gerri gets gut feelings that help her solve crimes. Ray can tell what's killed someone. Kinsey can gently assert her will on others.
The book opens with a transsexual starlet murdered. Gerri catches the case. She doesn't want to believe that there's anything weird going on. In fact, Gerri doesn't want to believe that there's anything weird in the world at all. Kinsey and Ray aren't so resistant. They've both long known that they're special and they want Gerri to admit it too.
I won't give away much more of the story, because this is a short novel and I want you to read it for yourself. I will say that it's worth your time. Like any new series, there are some minor hiccups here and there with the setup, but all in all, Ms. Larsen does a good job giving the reader a little bit of information at a time, only what they need to know. The mystery of the three friends builds slowly, though the mystery of who killed Ainsling moves faster (this is a good thing). Along the way we meet several supporting characters including Gerri's annoying partner, her fatherly captain, and Kinsey's grandmother.
None of the supplemental characters feel flat or unnecessary. They all add to the story. Like any good mystery, there's some misdirection, some misunderstandings, and some mistakes (by the characters). The story moves quickly and is resolved satisfactorily. There's no major cliffhanger here, but the last few pages do open up a whole lot of questions that make me excited for the rest of the series.
Overall, this is a very solid beginning to a series. There were some minor editing issues, a few avenues that could have been explored further, but still quite enjoyable. I'll be reading more.
December 28, 2014
I was given a copy of this book for an honest review.
I will start by saying that I'm a huge fan of Patti Larsen. I love her wit, her spice, her characters feel like they are my friends. All marks of a truly excellent author.
Freak show was definitely different than Patti's HCN wonder-world. :-) But different is good. It took me a little longer to read than it normally would - only because I am used to a different flow. It was important that I take the time to forget 'Patti the HCN queen' and allow The Nightshade Cases to stand on it's own. That said - I enjoyed this first episode - enjoyed meeting Gerri, Ray and Kinsey. Gerri, who uses her 'something extra' while still trying to deny the existence of paranormal; Ray's 'something extra' has taken her down a difficult path - but she has obviously found her place; Kinsey, who is just now truly learning about herself and her 'something extra'. Throw in an antagonist or two, a non-coincidence of finding each other again years after college - in a town with some strange happenings, a Grandma who has more information than she has shared with the trio, and a guardian vampire - well, I believe I am hooked.
I love the potential here - the story-line that can go anywhere. I would have enjoyed more background on the trio, however. The reason I love books over any visual (movies, tv) is that you get the full story - the full background - have a complete picture, if you will. And that's my only negative about this episode - the lack of full background. :-) I've no doubt that more will be revealed with each 'episode'. I'll get over it. Have to - because I must now find out what Grandma is alluding to in the final 'scene'.
If I could offer any advice to those reading this episode; judge it on it's own merit. Do not mix up Patti's incredibly famous Hayle novels with this Series. She has taken a completely new road here - and I'm truly impressed at this. Read it - you'll end up 'needing' to get the next book/episode/installment? too.
I will start by saying that I'm a huge fan of Patti Larsen. I love her wit, her spice, her characters feel like they are my friends. All marks of a truly excellent author.
Freak show was definitely different than Patti's HCN wonder-world. :-) But different is good. It took me a little longer to read than it normally would - only because I am used to a different flow. It was important that I take the time to forget 'Patti the HCN queen' and allow The Nightshade Cases to stand on it's own. That said - I enjoyed this first episode - enjoyed meeting Gerri, Ray and Kinsey. Gerri, who uses her 'something extra' while still trying to deny the existence of paranormal; Ray's 'something extra' has taken her down a difficult path - but she has obviously found her place; Kinsey, who is just now truly learning about herself and her 'something extra'. Throw in an antagonist or two, a non-coincidence of finding each other again years after college - in a town with some strange happenings, a Grandma who has more information than she has shared with the trio, and a guardian vampire - well, I believe I am hooked.
I love the potential here - the story-line that can go anywhere. I would have enjoyed more background on the trio, however. The reason I love books over any visual (movies, tv) is that you get the full story - the full background - have a complete picture, if you will. And that's my only negative about this episode - the lack of full background. :-) I've no doubt that more will be revealed with each 'episode'. I'll get over it. Have to - because I must now find out what Grandma is alluding to in the final 'scene'.
If I could offer any advice to those reading this episode; judge it on it's own merit. Do not mix up Patti's incredibly famous Hayle novels with this Series. She has taken a completely new road here - and I'm truly impressed at this. Read it - you'll end up 'needing' to get the next book/episode/installment? too.
July 16, 2015
In the aftermath of Syd's sudden hiatus, I was desperately seeking a paranormal fix!! And found just that in the first episode of the Nightshade Cases. Especially since one of the the three main female characters reminds me so much of SYD!!! That would be Gerri of course; our sassy, no nonsense police detective!!
Where the Hayle Coven took you into a direct path of paranormal, The Nightshade Cases are way more subtle in their paranormalism (yes, I think I just made that word up...lol). And I am finding this turn refreshing.
I never like to give a reiteration of book in my reviews nor do I like to give spoilers. But in order to give an honest review of "Freak Show", I may have to deviate from my normal review practices.
Overall, I LOVE that the lead characters are all women!! Strong, successful and independent women for that matter. Gerri, Ray & Kinsey are definitely each other's ying & yang. It's not something you see too much of in today's writing. I think "Freak Show" provides a good introduction of these three women. It lays out the back story of these women in way that does not take away from the main story of the episode. I also love the mystery surrounding the secondary characters. Kinsey's grandmother makes even me wanna cower!! Scary old bitty she is!!
The only criticism I have is that, at times, the descriptions got a bit redundant. I see a growing trend in the need to constantly revisit descriptions when using multiple lead characters. While this may make sense to the writer, as a reader, it leaves you feeling a bit annoyed at re-reading something you just read four pages previously. For this reason, I can only give a four-star rating.
But please don't let my personal observation be a red-flag for you when considering whether or not to read "Freak Show." I truly enjoyed this first episode and was left with my jaw hanging open at the end. I am definitely a fan of the series and cannot wait for the next episode!!
Where the Hayle Coven took you into a direct path of paranormal, The Nightshade Cases are way more subtle in their paranormalism (yes, I think I just made that word up...lol). And I am finding this turn refreshing.
I never like to give a reiteration of book in my reviews nor do I like to give spoilers. But in order to give an honest review of "Freak Show", I may have to deviate from my normal review practices.
Overall, I LOVE that the lead characters are all women!! Strong, successful and independent women for that matter. Gerri, Ray & Kinsey are definitely each other's ying & yang. It's not something you see too much of in today's writing. I think "Freak Show" provides a good introduction of these three women. It lays out the back story of these women in way that does not take away from the main story of the episode. I also love the mystery surrounding the secondary characters. Kinsey's grandmother makes even me wanna cower!! Scary old bitty she is!!
The only criticism I have is that, at times, the descriptions got a bit redundant. I see a growing trend in the need to constantly revisit descriptions when using multiple lead characters. While this may make sense to the writer, as a reader, it leaves you feeling a bit annoyed at re-reading something you just read four pages previously. For this reason, I can only give a four-star rating.
But please don't let my personal observation be a red-flag for you when considering whether or not to read "Freak Show." I truly enjoyed this first episode and was left with my jaw hanging open at the end. I am definitely a fan of the series and cannot wait for the next episode!!
December 24, 2014
Not up to Her Usual Standard
Patti Larsen is a dynamic, creative, imaginative and captivating storyteller, which is why I was a bit disappointed with Episode One of the Freak Show series. Because Larsen is so gifted and because I’ve fallen in love with the characters in the 25 previous books I’ve read, I believe she fell short of her usual standard in The Nightshade Cases. The book begins with a murder of a dancer and Gerri, a cop, in her search for the killer, enlists the help of her two best friends, Ray, a medical examiner, and Kinsey, a Prof. of Anthropology who sees the “weird” in situations. So far so good until she invites them to the crime scene. It makes sense that Ray, a medical examiner, would be at the crime scene, but not for Kinsey. Also, their presence at the crime scenes didn't have much of an impact. But more important is that I did not feel a connection to any of the three girls and I did not feel their connection to each other. In the Hayle Coven series, the moment I “met” Sydlynn Hayle I felt the force of her individually, her whining, her indecision, and her exquisite quirky, funny spirit which I could not get enough of, told all my friends about--and I immediately adored her! With Gerri, Ray and Kinsey I felt no connection. I didn’t like or dislike them. They were just two dimensional characters. I did feel a negative connection between Gerri and Det. Pierce that was the beginning of a biting, aggravating relationship. That had some passion. And also with Kinsey's grandmother, but... The plot was good but in all, the book lacked the fire, excitement and adventure of her previous books and did not drag me in salivating for more. In all fairness, this was a novella.
Were this a novel, I believe Larsen would have had the space to develop more in-depth characters and, also, offer a more exciting plot.
Patti Larsen is a dynamic, creative, imaginative and captivating storyteller, which is why I was a bit disappointed with Episode One of the Freak Show series. Because Larsen is so gifted and because I’ve fallen in love with the characters in the 25 previous books I’ve read, I believe she fell short of her usual standard in The Nightshade Cases. The book begins with a murder of a dancer and Gerri, a cop, in her search for the killer, enlists the help of her two best friends, Ray, a medical examiner, and Kinsey, a Prof. of Anthropology who sees the “weird” in situations. So far so good until she invites them to the crime scene. It makes sense that Ray, a medical examiner, would be at the crime scene, but not for Kinsey. Also, their presence at the crime scenes didn't have much of an impact. But more important is that I did not feel a connection to any of the three girls and I did not feel their connection to each other. In the Hayle Coven series, the moment I “met” Sydlynn Hayle I felt the force of her individually, her whining, her indecision, and her exquisite quirky, funny spirit which I could not get enough of, told all my friends about--and I immediately adored her! With Gerri, Ray and Kinsey I felt no connection. I didn’t like or dislike them. They were just two dimensional characters. I did feel a negative connection between Gerri and Det. Pierce that was the beginning of a biting, aggravating relationship. That had some passion. And also with Kinsey's grandmother, but... The plot was good but in all, the book lacked the fire, excitement and adventure of her previous books and did not drag me in salivating for more. In all fairness, this was a novella.
Were this a novel, I believe Larsen would have had the space to develop more in-depth characters and, also, offer a more exciting plot.
October 10, 2014
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This first "episode" of the series really captured my attention. The writing style is more like a movie script and less like your typical book. That, coupled with the many mysteries kept me rapidly flipping pages.
Gerri, Ray, and Kinsey are a trio of girls with oodles of secrets. They met each other in college only to go their separate ways. In Silver City, we find them all recently reunited and tied together by a secret they all share. Gerri became homicide detective and recently lost a partner in a strange way that Ray and Kinsey somehow witnessed. Ray became a medical examiner (after being a doctor) for a personal (and paranormal) reason that neither of the other girls knows. Kinsey relocated to a new university suddenly, with the help of her own hidden talent. Together, these three girls are captivating and left me completely wanting more. I want to know more about their past, the history together, and the powers and strange occurrences that surround them. This trio gets more than they bargained for when Gerri gets assigned the murder investigation of a dancer at a drag club. Of course, when the weirdness pops up, she reaches out to her girls for help.
Who killed the girl? Why are more bodies popping up and then disappearing? Why does it seem like everyone knows more than these three girls? What kind of abilities does Gerri have? This book was filled with questions and very few answers. It gave a lot of introduction and mystery to get you hooked on even more installments. Oh, and it totally works! Even if you haven't been a detective story fan, this introductory serial will convince you otherwise.
This first "episode" of the series really captured my attention. The writing style is more like a movie script and less like your typical book. That, coupled with the many mysteries kept me rapidly flipping pages.
Gerri, Ray, and Kinsey are a trio of girls with oodles of secrets. They met each other in college only to go their separate ways. In Silver City, we find them all recently reunited and tied together by a secret they all share. Gerri became homicide detective and recently lost a partner in a strange way that Ray and Kinsey somehow witnessed. Ray became a medical examiner (after being a doctor) for a personal (and paranormal) reason that neither of the other girls knows. Kinsey relocated to a new university suddenly, with the help of her own hidden talent. Together, these three girls are captivating and left me completely wanting more. I want to know more about their past, the history together, and the powers and strange occurrences that surround them. This trio gets more than they bargained for when Gerri gets assigned the murder investigation of a dancer at a drag club. Of course, when the weirdness pops up, she reaches out to her girls for help.
Who killed the girl? Why are more bodies popping up and then disappearing? Why does it seem like everyone knows more than these three girls? What kind of abilities does Gerri have? This book was filled with questions and very few answers. It gave a lot of introduction and mystery to get you hooked on even more installments. Oh, and it totally works! Even if you haven't been a detective story fan, this introductory serial will convince you otherwise.
November 3, 2015
I am an ardent lover of paranormal thrillers AND a good nitty-gritty cop drama. With shows like Criminal Minds where you get to watch some serious profiling AND Shemar Moore airing weekly…I mean who wouldn’t be, right? So naturally, my interest was quite piqued when Freak Show, that encompasses both genres, came across my reading list. I was interested in seeing how twenty-one short books would be turned into “episodes” released over twenty-one weeks in a television show model. Would the writing be developed enough to keep me interested? Would it be too choppy for me to truly consider it a “book?” I had questions dancing around in my head that had me hesitating.
I was, however, happy to discover that after a few pages…I was fairly sucked into the episode. I won’t give away too much of the story as it is such a short read. It should leave you feeling like you just watched the pilot to a new season on TV. Like any pilot or new series, there are some glitches scattered about with the setup and the flow from character to character. Nevertheless, Larsen does a solid job of slowly releasing little bits of information in such a manner as to drastically up the tension throughout the episode. She did well in keeping the pace of each plotline moving as it should: faster with the investigation of the murders and slower with the mysteries surrounding the main characters.
I give this episode 3 stars. I was wrapped up in all the drama and the last few pages certainly had me wondering and plotegizing (wait…that’s not a word is it…oh well). The paranormal has taken up residence in Silver City and I have no doubt that the next episode will hold many more tricks and treats for the readers.
I was, however, happy to discover that after a few pages…I was fairly sucked into the episode. I won’t give away too much of the story as it is such a short read. It should leave you feeling like you just watched the pilot to a new season on TV. Like any pilot or new series, there are some glitches scattered about with the setup and the flow from character to character. Nevertheless, Larsen does a solid job of slowly releasing little bits of information in such a manner as to drastically up the tension throughout the episode. She did well in keeping the pace of each plotline moving as it should: faster with the investigation of the murders and slower with the mysteries surrounding the main characters.
I give this episode 3 stars. I was wrapped up in all the drama and the last few pages certainly had me wondering and plotegizing (wait…that’s not a word is it…oh well). The paranormal has taken up residence in Silver City and I have no doubt that the next episode will hold many more tricks and treats for the readers.
December 5, 2014
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This was a little different to the Patti Larsen Hayle coven books I'd first read however it was equally captivating and another great book from Patti. As with all of her books you get completely drawn in from the get go and Patti Larsen has a wonderful knack of making you feel like you are in the story with all her characters. Gerri is a cowboy boot wearing detective who has a gift that along with her friends Ray and Kinsey who also have unique gifts solve crimes whilst also trying to come to terms with and find out more about what their gifts are. The more of the nightshade cases you read the more you discover about each of the trio and the gifts they hold that help them along the way when weird cases turn up. Freak show starts with the murder of a transsexual starlet, the three friends race to find the answers to the dancer's death, one thing is made absolutely apparent-something isn't right within their new hometown, and someone is doing everything they can to make sure the truth doesn't come out. I don't want to give anything away as I would urge anyone to read it and find out for themselves. Freak show leaves you with a few unanswered questions every time and always leaves you wanting to find out more about the girls, their gifts and who is trying to keep weird things hidden. This book could also be read as a stand alone book however I for one couldn't wait to read the next instalments of the nightshade girls. Patti Larsen is an amazing writer and has a huge talent long may her success continue and long may her wonderful work keep flowing.
Read
January 28, 2015FREAK SHOW is episode one of the Nightshade Cases featuring Detective Geraldine (Gerri) Meyers, Dr. Rachel (Ray) Hunter, and Dr. Kinsey DanAllart. An episode of the Nightshade Cases will come out every week for twenty one weeks and is modeled on the television show format (ex: you’ll see screenwriting notations). In FREAK SHOW, Gerri is now a detective in Silver City and she’s called out to the murder of a transsexual dancer named Aisling. Gerri’s two best friends from college are also now living and working in Silver City, but Gerri doesn’t believe in coincidences or in anything weird. However, this case is nothing but weird, so she calls in Ray and Kinsey. Ray is a medical examiner for Silver City and Kinsey is a professor of anthropology who specializes in the weird and occult. As Gerri’s investigation unfolds, it becomes all too clear to the three friends there is something very strange about Silver City. FREAK SHOW is a novella to help readers get introduced to the main characters and Silver City. I thought it was a good background to lead into the next episode of the series. I liked all the main characters, but Ray is my favorite. FREAK SHOW is a good mystery and I loved the paranormal elements which will play a big part in this series. At this point, my least favorite of the three women is Gerri, but it’s because of her contempt for the unknown rather than a true character flaw. I’m excited to see where the author takes Gerri, Ray, and Kinsey. Welcome to Silver City and enjoy FREAK SHOW!
January 3, 2015
The Night Shade Cases Freak Show by Patti Larsen and Annetta Ribken
A bizarre murder and detective Geraldine Meyers is called out to investigate. Knowing it is going to be more than a regular murder she calls on two of her best friends to look at the scene and investigate. These three women were drawn together in college, separated by time and distance and then for some twist of fate they find that they are all relocated to Silver City. They are all soon realizing that Silver City is a whole lot more than just a new city and location. Something else is at work and they are the ones that will find out what is going on. Patti Larsen takes you on a mystery with twists, turns and paranormal influences. These three are out to solve a crime that someone is desperately trying to hide. When will they learn who is trying to keep them from the truth and for that matter they have to figure out what is going on with each of them and why these abilities are always better when the three are together. Love the mystery and suspense in this and look forward to more of the series.
Bella Doerres Ma/Ed
A bizarre murder and detective Geraldine Meyers is called out to investigate. Knowing it is going to be more than a regular murder she calls on two of her best friends to look at the scene and investigate. These three women were drawn together in college, separated by time and distance and then for some twist of fate they find that they are all relocated to Silver City. They are all soon realizing that Silver City is a whole lot more than just a new city and location. Something else is at work and they are the ones that will find out what is going on. Patti Larsen takes you on a mystery with twists, turns and paranormal influences. These three are out to solve a crime that someone is desperately trying to hide. When will they learn who is trying to keep them from the truth and for that matter they have to figure out what is going on with each of them and why these abilities are always better when the three are together. Love the mystery and suspense in this and look forward to more of the series.
Bella Doerres Ma/Ed
December 25, 2014
I was given a copy of Night Shades for my honest review. Gerri, Ray, and Kinsey, three college friends reunited sometime later in Silver City. Strange events, including a murder of a transvestite begin the strange occurrences that have all three friends (with odd / paranormal abilities of their own) working together to figure out the puzzle / mystery. Gerri a police officer. Ray a medical examiner and Kinsey an anthropologist.
Where the Hayle Coven series grabbed me immediately and held me spellbound for each and every book, laughing, crying and just an emotional wreck, eager to see what Patti had planned for future events.. . .well, Nightshade took a while for me to get into it. For me, the first few chapters felt a little heavy in back story. However, with a little patience I read through and was glad I did. Can't wait for the next installment. Pattie is an amazing writer and this book, the first installment of hopefully many, promise to be no less enjoyable and exciting!
For those of you debating whether or not you want to read The Nightshade Cases, #1, take the chance. You won't be disappointed.
Where the Hayle Coven series grabbed me immediately and held me spellbound for each and every book, laughing, crying and just an emotional wreck, eager to see what Patti had planned for future events.. . .well, Nightshade took a while for me to get into it. For me, the first few chapters felt a little heavy in back story. However, with a little patience I read through and was glad I did. Can't wait for the next installment. Pattie is an amazing writer and this book, the first installment of hopefully many, promise to be no less enjoyable and exciting!
For those of you debating whether or not you want to read The Nightshade Cases, #1, take the chance. You won't be disappointed.
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