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Paradise #17
Deadly Sacrifice: A Paradise Crime Mystery
"I can't wait for this book! Lei is my favorite female crime solver of all time." ~Reader
Paradise has no protection from a twisted killer.
Is it murder...or is the death something worse? Detective Lei Texeira and her partner Pono dive into a case that will test their resolve as they persue a serial killer who captures and displays his victims on some of Maui's most sacred sites, surrounded by trappings of Hawaiiana. With the help of rookie investigator and computer whiz Katie McHenry, the crime solving team works against a ticking clock, trying to outwit a killer with a hidden agenda that will surprise them all.
"So glad there are so many mysteries in this series, its my favorite Hawaii fiction!" ~Goodreads
Paradise has no protection from a twisted killer.
Is it murder...or is the death something worse? Detective Lei Texeira and her partner Pono dive into a case that will test their resolve as they persue a serial killer who captures and displays his victims on some of Maui's most sacred sites, surrounded by trappings of Hawaiiana. With the help of rookie investigator and computer whiz Katie McHenry, the crime solving team works against a ticking clock, trying to outwit a killer with a hidden agenda that will surprise them all.
"So glad there are so many mysteries in this series, its my favorite Hawaii fiction!" ~Goodreads
296 pages, Paperback
Published April 30, 2025
About the author
Toby Neal
321 books995 followersToby Neal was raised on Kauai in Hawaii. She wrote and illustrated her first story at age 5. After initially majoring in journalism, she eventually settled on mental health as a career and loves her work, saying, “I’m endlessly fascinated with people’s stories.”
Toby credits her counseling background in adding depth to her characters–from the villains to Lei Texeira, the courageous and vulnerable heroine in the Lei Crime Series, to the wounds and psychological implications of the heroes of the Scorch Series.
Get TWO FREE full length Toby Neal books by signing up for her newsletter here! http://www.subscribepage.com/TobyNeal...
Toby credits her counseling background in adding depth to her characters–from the villains to Lei Texeira, the courageous and vulnerable heroine in the Lei Crime Series, to the wounds and psychological implications of the heroes of the Scorch Series.
Get TWO FREE full length Toby Neal books by signing up for her newsletter here! http://www.subscribepage.com/TobyNeal...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
April 24, 2025
HEINOUS CRIMES
Most people think of Hawaii as a beautiful, tropical Paradise—a place of peace and tranquility. But Detective Lei Texeira and her partner Pono of the Maui Police Dept. know about the darker side of paradise, the one filled with mischief, mayhem, and murder. Usually, they work to solve crimes that plague every other Police Dept. in the world. Occasionally, they run across a crime or string of crimes so heinous that it shakes their senses. A serial killer is on the loose, and it will take all the brains and brawn. Maui Police Dept. has to solve this case. The serial killer is displaying the victims on some of Maui's most sacred sites, surrounded by trappings of Hawaiiana. The home team has a new member, a rookie investigator, and a computer whiz. Katie McHenry showcases her skills, which are invaluable in helping solve this case.
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by the author/publisher. The opinions expressed here are my own and without any influence.
Most people think of Hawaii as a beautiful, tropical Paradise—a place of peace and tranquility. But Detective Lei Texeira and her partner Pono of the Maui Police Dept. know about the darker side of paradise, the one filled with mischief, mayhem, and murder. Usually, they work to solve crimes that plague every other Police Dept. in the world. Occasionally, they run across a crime or string of crimes so heinous that it shakes their senses. A serial killer is on the loose, and it will take all the brains and brawn. Maui Police Dept. has to solve this case. The serial killer is displaying the victims on some of Maui's most sacred sites, surrounded by trappings of Hawaiiana. The home team has a new member, a rookie investigator, and a computer whiz. Katie McHenry showcases her skills, which are invaluable in helping solve this case.
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by the author/publisher. The opinions expressed here are my own and without any influence.
April 28, 2025
It’s been awhile since we’ve had a Lei book. She’s working closely with her partner, Pono, to solve grisly murders on the island. These murders seem to be a political statement about the unwanted advancements that could ruin the history and importance of Hawaii. What I enjoyed the most was the introduction of a new character, Katie. She’s a ball of endless and fearless energy they’ve wrangled into a crime fighting techie. It was great to be back in Lei’s world and the island, her humor and wit are strong as ever. There are many books in this series, each with a new mystery or crime, but her personal life is the constant. If this is your first book you will enjoy it without worry about missing the back story. Although written with a coauthor for the first time, with this series anyway, I am pleased to have Neal back in her element. I was thrilled to receive an early and wrote my review voluntarily to show my support.
April 30, 2025
I have said it before and will say it again; Toby Neal is one of my favorite authors. This book is a great example.
Someone is making sacrifices on hallowed ground in Maui. Lei and Pono are tasked with trying to catch this nut job before any more deaths occur. Meanwhile, Lei is also mentoring a new intern/ computer tech that is a hoot. Katie is a great addition to the force and a fun character.
Neal writes with knowledge of the Hawaiian culture, having grown up there, and her books are filled with such wonderful descriptions that you feel as if you are there with the characters.
I highly recommend this and any of Ms. Neal's other books as well.
Someone is making sacrifices on hallowed ground in Maui. Lei and Pono are tasked with trying to catch this nut job before any more deaths occur. Meanwhile, Lei is also mentoring a new intern/ computer tech that is a hoot. Katie is a great addition to the force and a fun character.
Neal writes with knowledge of the Hawaiian culture, having grown up there, and her books are filled with such wonderful descriptions that you feel as if you are there with the characters.
I highly recommend this and any of Ms. Neal's other books as well.
April 28, 2025
Neal, joined by Schoonover, did not disappoint as another Paradise Crime Mystery is about to be released with our favorite characters, Lei, Stevens, Pono! And wait until you meet Katie McHenry! What a delight this new character is to the story. I’ve been an advanced reader since the beginning of this series and once again the story is fresh and wonderful. I never wanted it to end! I felt like I was in Maui again. Get your copy!
April 18, 2025
Vividly portrayed and masterfully written. Strong, intense characters in an exciting, awesome story filled with Hawaiian history and computer information. A sure fire hit that never misses its mark.
Highly Recommended.
Highly Recommended.
April 15, 2025
Oh my gosh this book is so good I couldn't put it down! But then I'd have to put it down because it got so intense! So good!!! Katie is a force to be reckoned with and Lei has her hands full!!
May 14, 2025
A Great Read!!
Another great Lei adventure and history lesson in one exciting book!! I hope there will be more Lei books in the future.
Another great Lei adventure and history lesson in one exciting book!! I hope there will be more Lei books in the future.
June 3, 2025
It is so Great to have another story with Lei and Pono and the new addition of Katie to the team. As they investigate murders related somehow to a new hotel development on sacred Hawaiian land, we learn about old customs and taboos and the Hawaiians fighting to save some of their sacred spaces.
May 1, 2025
As a member of Ms Neal's ARC team I am asked to write an honest review and here goes. The writing is so amazing that I actually see in my head things I probably wouldn't notice if I had been there in person. There's a serial killer at loose leaving the bodies in poses with ancient artifacts used as killing tools.
I made the mistake of starting this before bed and stayed up way too late because I couldn't put it down. I can't wait to see more of the newbie Kate who gives Sophie a run for the money as a computer genius. Add Stevens and the rest of Lei's family to the mix and need I say more?
I made the mistake of starting this before bed and stayed up way too late because I couldn't put it down. I can't wait to see more of the newbie Kate who gives Sophie a run for the money as a computer genius. Add Stevens and the rest of Lei's family to the mix and need I say more?
May 2, 2025
Deadly Sacrifice - a review by Rosemary Kenny.
Death comes to Maui, in Deadly Sacrifice, Toby Neal's dynamic 17th Paradise Crime Mystery, as a killer repeatedly violates Hawaii's sacred locations.
Lei Texeira, Pono Kaihale and intern Katie McHenry must unravel a plot that has more twists and turns than a snake in a tumble-drier.
To find what links the victims in this all-action thriller - and whodunit, in a shocking reveal - get the amazing Deadly Sacrifice today...I guarantee it's completely unputdownable!
Death comes to Maui, in Deadly Sacrifice, Toby Neal's dynamic 17th Paradise Crime Mystery, as a killer repeatedly violates Hawaii's sacred locations.
Lei Texeira, Pono Kaihale and intern Katie McHenry must unravel a plot that has more twists and turns than a snake in a tumble-drier.
To find what links the victims in this all-action thriller - and whodunit, in a shocking reveal - get the amazing Deadly Sacrifice today...I guarantee it's completely unputdownable!
April 27, 2025
Every time I open a new Paradise Crime book, I expect to be instantly teleported to an exotic, thrilling and sometimes dangerous setting. Deadly Sacrifice certainly didn’t disappoint! Toby Neal writes with authenticity, often consulting with experts in procedures, and in this case, has brought in a coauthor, David Shoonover, a friend and former neighbor, a retired Deputy Fire Chief and somewhat of a photography expert. Lei has always allowed me to quietly follow her. I’ve been in her ‘cubicle’ listening to Pono give 2 page lesson in Hawaii history, and a look at the current very real movement toward sovereignty. (ch. 31, don’t miss this!) I followed her downstairs into the ‘cave’ of the new tech, Katie, a startling but likeable image, a lot like the young Lei – impulsive, rule bender, completely absorbed in whatever she’s working on at the moment. I rode with Lei and Pono in his truck, “Stanley”, out to a few sacred heiau sites that had been desecrated by a staged killing. I come away with a more in-depth understanding of the culture, learning more of those hidden and sacred pockets of birds and plants found only in Hawaii and a yearning to return to the islands if only for a few days.
April 30, 2025
The term 'page-turner' takes on a new dimension as you embark on Toby Neal's latest Paradise Crime Mystery. Lurking in the beautiful, sacred places of Maui is a deranged killer, using the leiomano weapons as his deadly weapons of choice. Tangled tightly into a web of mystery, Ms. Neal brings back to life beloved, believable, and ever-changing, maturing characters such as Detective Lei Texeira and her partner, Pono, while also introducing us to Katie McHenry, her new impulsive, quirky tech whiz who, like a younger Lei, helps support their passionate efforts to right wrongs and bring deranged killers to justice, dead or alive. Woven into the fabric of this unpredictable plot are twists and turns, anxious moments of dread, and the critical "ahas" as pieces of the puzzle begin to fit together, all while the reader frantically hopes justice will be done before more horrific events unfold. DEADLY SACRIFICE is a "must read" whether you are a faithful fan of Ms. Neal's or are being newly introduced to her brilliant work.
May 2, 2025
At first I was a little concerned that bringing in a co-author may have changed the dynamics of this series, but as I started reading, I was hooked by the end of the first chapter.
A serial killer is murdering his victims, leaving them in highly visible areas, displayed with items which point to Hawaiian history. When Lei and Pono start their investigations, (aided by the new member of the team - computer wizz Katie), they need to find answers quickly. But the body count starts to rise, and soon everyone realises that there is much more at stake here.
This series grabs me with each book. Although building on character's lives and relationships, it is possible to read this as a stand-alone novel. But you will gain much more if you read the entire series, watching each character grow and develop while gaining a deeper understanding of Hawaii and it's culture.
I was given a copy of this to read/review - all comments are my own.
A serial killer is murdering his victims, leaving them in highly visible areas, displayed with items which point to Hawaiian history. When Lei and Pono start their investigations, (aided by the new member of the team - computer wizz Katie), they need to find answers quickly. But the body count starts to rise, and soon everyone realises that there is much more at stake here.
This series grabs me with each book. Although building on character's lives and relationships, it is possible to read this as a stand-alone novel. But you will gain much more if you read the entire series, watching each character grow and develop while gaining a deeper understanding of Hawaii and it's culture.
I was given a copy of this to read/review - all comments are my own.
April 19, 2025
Deadly Sacrifice is a richly textured crime story filled with familiar and beloved characters, as well as a wealth of Hawaii's history and culture.
Author Toby Neal has partnered with author Dave Schoonover for this trek into the Paradise Crime world. The pairing works well as both are genuinely knowledgeable of Hawaiian traditions from growing up and living on the islands.
In addition to the historic details, Deadly Sacrifice is a well-written, tightly crafted whodunit crime mystery that kept me glued to my seat reading into the late hours as I tried to tie all the details together. New character, Katie, a young bouncy and energetic Investigations Intern conversant in technology brings a fun fresh perspective to the story.
Deadly Sacrifice is a very worthy addition to the series and I highly recommend you read it.
Author Toby Neal has partnered with author Dave Schoonover for this trek into the Paradise Crime world. The pairing works well as both are genuinely knowledgeable of Hawaiian traditions from growing up and living on the islands.
In addition to the historic details, Deadly Sacrifice is a well-written, tightly crafted whodunit crime mystery that kept me glued to my seat reading into the late hours as I tried to tie all the details together. New character, Katie, a young bouncy and energetic Investigations Intern conversant in technology brings a fun fresh perspective to the story.
Deadly Sacrifice is a very worthy addition to the series and I highly recommend you read it.
June 12, 2025
This is book #17 in the series and I’ve read all 17! This book is quite different than the earlier books. in the previous books Lei seemed to struggle with her personal demons despite having a family with her Dad and grandfather close by.
In this book the “family” all live in a protected compound: Lei, hubby, two kids, Dad grandfather and hubby’s Mom. Her brother is married and visits often.
Lei still has her partner Pono. There is a new computer guiro that Leinis not so sure about. But as the book progresses, Katy shows her computer skills and Lei’s respect.
There is someone killing developers and leaves practically a zero trail. Katy using her o outer skills gives Lei and Pono the leads they need.
The new character fits in beautifully and adds a breath of youth and technology to the series. Once started, it was hard to put down. I’m looking forward to book #18!
In this book the “family” all live in a protected compound: Lei, hubby, two kids, Dad grandfather and hubby’s Mom. Her brother is married and visits often.
Lei still has her partner Pono. There is a new computer guiro that Leinis not so sure about. But as the book progresses, Katy shows her computer skills and Lei’s respect.
There is someone killing developers and leaves practically a zero trail. Katy using her o outer skills gives Lei and Pono the leads they need.
The new character fits in beautifully and adds a breath of youth and technology to the series. Once started, it was hard to put down. I’m looking forward to book #18!
April 21, 2025
The series is outstanding, as is this book! Love the characters and how they interact with each other. Love the addition of a new character and how she is becoming part of the “team”! Katie is a great addition to the series and I think she will add another level of depth to the books. As usual the storyline is engaging and kept me engrossed from start to finish. There are surprises which kept me guessing till the end. The detailed descriptions of the many locations depicted in the book was amazing and had me wishing I was there. I look forward to many more books in the series!
May 2, 2025
Been waiting for Lei and Pono for a while! Loved this book taking place on Maui's historical sites ; feels like you are right there in the heart of Hawaii. It tells of a serial Killer that mystifies Lei and is very cruel in the way he displays his victims on the sacred sites of Maui. This engages you, keeps you interested and keeps you guessing. Love the new rookie investigator Katie McHenry, she is spunky and has great computer talent. Very exciting storyline and great reading. Both authors did a fantastic job.
July 14, 2025
The latest, ut i hope not the last, in the Lei Texeira series, this one has a killer terrorizing a development community on Maui, whose project threatens the land. The killings have all the trappings of a angry Native Hawaiian protest, but our detectives, aided by a new recruit who is a tech whiz, see through the window dressing and uncover the true motive and killer just in time. Toby Neal's books feature strong women in challenging circumstances, uncovering the challenges of living in Hawaii while also showing the strength of the diverse culture and the beauty of the landscape.
April 22, 2025
I loved this latest Lei Texeira mystery. In addition to her longtime partner, she is mentoring Katie McHenry. Katie is a great addition, and I can’t wait to see her character develop. She’s a lot like the earlier versions of Lei. The story is riveting. You won’t want to put this book down. I recommend you read the Historical Note by her co-author David Schoonover and the Glossary of Hawaiian Words at the end. They’re fascinating! I recommend this book.
May 4, 2025
An amazing new Paradise Crime Mystery addition. Deadly Sacrifice is a long awaited addition to this series and it didn’t disappoint. Filled with our favorite people, Leo, Stevens, Pono, with a new quirky addition, Katie McHenry. This is book 17 in this series but can be read as a stand alone, but who would want to?! Another murder but this time by a serial killer, with twists and turns that keeps you on the edge of your seat and unable to put down
May 8, 2025
Sacrifices
I love this series! It was great getting to ride along with Lei & Pono again . I'm not sure if I like the new character Katie, I find her a bit too childish & the need to describe what she's wearing unnecessary. She's suppose to be young adult, not a teenager. The storyline was very well written & I found learning about the history of the islands interesting. I'll be waiting to see where the next book takes us.
I love this series! It was great getting to ride along with Lei & Pono again . I'm not sure if I like the new character Katie, I find her a bit too childish & the need to describe what she's wearing unnecessary. She's suppose to be young adult, not a teenager. The storyline was very well written & I found learning about the history of the islands interesting. I'll be waiting to see where the next book takes us.
May 8, 2025
Deadly Sacrifice
I have read every book of the Paradise Crime series and I think it's one of the best of the 17 and look forward to more, Toby, keep it up, I really enjoyed the History of the Islands and really opened my eyes to how reseliant the Native Hawaiian people are, Mahalo Dave . Gary Ontario 🇨🇦
I have read every book of the Paradise Crime series and I think it's one of the best of the 17 and look forward to more, Toby, keep it up, I really enjoyed the History of the Islands and really opened my eyes to how reseliant the Native Hawaiian people are, Mahalo Dave . Gary Ontario 🇨🇦
May 16, 2025
great story and culturally enlightening
I have so enjoyed this Paradise Crime Mysteries series. Having lived in Hawai’i i appreciate how respectfully Toby Neal weaves local culture into page turner suspense. Her characters ring true and I feel like I know them. I’m sad to have finished this last book and can’t wait for more.
I have so enjoyed this Paradise Crime Mysteries series. Having lived in Hawai’i i appreciate how respectfully Toby Neal weaves local culture into page turner suspense. Her characters ring true and I feel like I know them. I’m sad to have finished this last book and can’t wait for more.
April 30, 2025
I found this plot interesting with twists and turns, and well define characters
It was interesting reading about the different places there
I recommend this book as well as all the other the author has written.
It was interesting reading about the different places there
I recommend this book as well as all the other the author has written.
May 4, 2025
This is the seventeenth book in the Paradise Crime Mysteries series. In this addition, Lei and her team are chasing a serial killer. Lots of drama, suspense and twists. The story is intense and kept me guessing.
May 5, 2025
really enjoyed
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and the introduction of Katie. So many rich characters and the plot was a page-turner. Leo and company always entertaining and fun to catch up with. She’s a great detective.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and the introduction of Katie. So many rich characters and the plot was a page-turner. Leo and company always entertaining and fun to catch up with. She’s a great detective.
May 7, 2025
Another great book in a wonderful series
I love this series, and this book is no exception. The characters are very well-developed and really drew me in. The mystery kept me guessing until the end. I especially appreciate the love of Hawaii that is evident in these stories.
I love this series, and this book is no exception. The characters are very well-developed and really drew me in. The mystery kept me guessing until the end. I especially appreciate the love of Hawaii that is evident in these stories.
May 30, 2025
New great character
I always enjoy Toby Neal books! Katie is a refreshing new addition to Ms. Neal's amazing cast of characters! I look forward to every new book in all of Toby Neal's series.
I always enjoy Toby Neal books! Katie is a refreshing new addition to Ms. Neal's amazing cast of characters! I look forward to every new book in all of Toby Neal's series.
April 13, 2025
So enjoyed co-writing this tense and twisty mystery with my Maui friend Dave Schoonover! Lei and her team tackle a serial killer with a hidden agenda...
May 20, 2025
Oh that new character is a blast. I can't wait for more and for her to meet Sophie
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews