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Jimmy Vega Mystery #2
A Blossom of Bright Light
“A tremendous talent.”—Lee Child
In award-winning author Suzanne Chazin’s stirring new novel, Latino police detective Jimmy Vega must strike a precarious balance between the local immigrant community and his hometown’s most powerful and privileged citizens during a dangerous murder investigation...
A split-second decision thrusts Detective Jimmy Vega into the epicenter of a disturbing case when a body is found near a gathering place for immigrants in upscale Lake Holly, NY. The cold-bloodedness of the crime and the innocence of the victim torment Vega.
In a community gripped by fear of deportation, Vega needs the help of his girlfriend, activist Adele Figueroa, to gain people’s trust. But Adele is acting strangely, consumed by a secret that threatens to tear them apart. When the case takes a personal turn, both Vega and Adele discover that Lake Holly’s tranquil façade hides a terror of monstrous proportions, poised and ready to strike again. To confront the killer and save their relationship, Vega and Adele must forge a new level of trust—in each other, and in their most deeply held beliefs—to expose an evil that threatens to eclipse anything they’d previously imagined.
Written with equal parts passion and suspense, A Blossom of Bright Light takes readers on a journey of stunning revelations to uncover a small town’s most sinister secrets—and brightest hopes for the future. Mystery, sacrifice, and unremitting love converge in this gripping work by a master storyteller.
In award-winning author Suzanne Chazin’s stirring new novel, Latino police detective Jimmy Vega must strike a precarious balance between the local immigrant community and his hometown’s most powerful and privileged citizens during a dangerous murder investigation...
A split-second decision thrusts Detective Jimmy Vega into the epicenter of a disturbing case when a body is found near a gathering place for immigrants in upscale Lake Holly, NY. The cold-bloodedness of the crime and the innocence of the victim torment Vega.
In a community gripped by fear of deportation, Vega needs the help of his girlfriend, activist Adele Figueroa, to gain people’s trust. But Adele is acting strangely, consumed by a secret that threatens to tear them apart. When the case takes a personal turn, both Vega and Adele discover that Lake Holly’s tranquil façade hides a terror of monstrous proportions, poised and ready to strike again. To confront the killer and save their relationship, Vega and Adele must forge a new level of trust—in each other, and in their most deeply held beliefs—to expose an evil that threatens to eclipse anything they’d previously imagined.
Written with equal parts passion and suspense, A Blossom of Bright Light takes readers on a journey of stunning revelations to uncover a small town’s most sinister secrets—and brightest hopes for the future. Mystery, sacrifice, and unremitting love converge in this gripping work by a master storyteller.
360 pages, Hardcover
First published October 27, 2015
63 people are currently reading
1119 people want to read
About the author
Suzanne Chazin
17 books149 followers Suzanne Chazin is the author of two critically acclaimed, award-winning suspense series. Her “Jimmy Vega” series, about an upstate New York cop navigating the world of the undocumented was an American Library Association finalist for Best Mystery of the Year and an Amazon pick. Her Georgia Skeehan/FDNY series was hailed as, “searing and emotionally explosive” (USA Today), and her heroine, fire investigator Georgia Skeehan, as “incredibly strong” (People).
A graduate of Northwestern University, Suzanne worked for two decades in journalism, writing for Reader's Digest and The New York Times, and winning several national awards. Among her quirkier experiences as a journalist: profiling a doctor who used his kitchen ceiling fan as a centrifuge (he went on to win the Nobel Prize in medicine for his work), and visiting a small Georgia town that had a parade in her honor because they got the funny idea that she was actually somebody important.
Thank God her novel-writing career has disabused her of any such notion.
For more information, please visit her website at: www.suzannechazin.com
A graduate of Northwestern University, Suzanne worked for two decades in journalism, writing for Reader's Digest and The New York Times, and winning several national awards. Among her quirkier experiences as a journalist: profiling a doctor who used his kitchen ceiling fan as a centrifuge (he went on to win the Nobel Prize in medicine for his work), and visiting a small Georgia town that had a parade in her honor because they got the funny idea that she was actually somebody important.
Thank God her novel-writing career has disabused her of any such notion.
For more information, please visit her website at: www.suzannechazin.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 131 reviews
November 6, 2016
"Everything leaves a mark."
No matter what we do in life, there lies the evidence great or small. Do-overs just don't happen. And in most cases, everything is forever changed.
Detective Jimmy Vega of Lake Holly, New York is not only working on local police cases, but he is building a case to convince his girlfriend, Adele, not to answer a call. Adele, a Harvard trained lawyer, works at La Casa which is an outreach facility for immigrants.
Zambo, homeless and usually under the influence, claims that he has seen the Virgin in the woods holding a newborn. Vega insists that Adele allow someone else to deal with this latest of Zambo's fantasies. A faulty decision made, but one with indelible markings. When an infant is actually found among the leaves beneath a tree in the woods, Vega and Adele are devastated.
Suzanne Chazin presents another book in her Jimmy Vega series that adds a lot of spark to timely topics. Through her exceptionally well-developed characters, Chazin lays out all sides of the story for the reader. She envelopes her storyline with deeply carved emotions, frustrations, intense challenges, and even triumphs. You get the whole expedition hook, line, and sinker.
A Blossom of Bright Light showcases local police procedures and ratchets up the case to the federal level when Adele is offered a position in Washington, D.C.. There is more of Vega's daughter, Joy, in this one as she pursues her medical degree. But hear me out. Each book is a standalone. I read them as #3, #1, and then #2. In a perfect world, all series should be read in order, but it certainly takes nothing away from this one if you skip out of order.
I have been taken with Chazin and her stellar writing. Looking forward to meeting up with Jimmy Vega once again in the next one. Can't get here fast enough, Chazin.
No matter what we do in life, there lies the evidence great or small. Do-overs just don't happen. And in most cases, everything is forever changed.
Detective Jimmy Vega of Lake Holly, New York is not only working on local police cases, but he is building a case to convince his girlfriend, Adele, not to answer a call. Adele, a Harvard trained lawyer, works at La Casa which is an outreach facility for immigrants.
Zambo, homeless and usually under the influence, claims that he has seen the Virgin in the woods holding a newborn. Vega insists that Adele allow someone else to deal with this latest of Zambo's fantasies. A faulty decision made, but one with indelible markings. When an infant is actually found among the leaves beneath a tree in the woods, Vega and Adele are devastated.
Suzanne Chazin presents another book in her Jimmy Vega series that adds a lot of spark to timely topics. Through her exceptionally well-developed characters, Chazin lays out all sides of the story for the reader. She envelopes her storyline with deeply carved emotions, frustrations, intense challenges, and even triumphs. You get the whole expedition hook, line, and sinker.
A Blossom of Bright Light showcases local police procedures and ratchets up the case to the federal level when Adele is offered a position in Washington, D.C.. There is more of Vega's daughter, Joy, in this one as she pursues her medical degree. But hear me out. Each book is a standalone. I read them as #3, #1, and then #2. In a perfect world, all series should be read in order, but it certainly takes nothing away from this one if you skip out of order.
I have been taken with Chazin and her stellar writing. Looking forward to meeting up with Jimmy Vega once again in the next one. Can't get here fast enough, Chazin.
August 28, 2016
While there is always a mystery driving the plot of the Jimmy Vega series, the focus of the series is on immigration issues. A Blossom of Bright Light brings to the forefront the children of undocumented immigrants and how the threat of deportation puts the children of these immigrants at serious risk.
Enjoying a rare evening-in with his girlfriend Adele, Jimmy encourages her to ignore a phone call from La Casa, the center that she runs for undocumented immigrants. Soon both Vega and Adele learn that ignoring this call led to the death of a newborn baby. Jimmy searches for the baby’s killer, while Adele ponders taking a job in D.C., which would allow her to play a larger role in helping undocumented immigrants.
At the same time, 15-year-old Luna’s life is about to change. Her father, an undocumented immigrant, is about to be deported to Mexico. Luna, who’s own documentation status is iffy, is left to care for her younger brother and sister. They are brought to live with the Gonzalez family. Luna knows there is something off about the Gonzalez’s, but having no power being a 15 year old girl who’s immigration status is in danger, has little power to fight.
What I love about this series is how Chazin shows the complexities surrounding immigration reform. She humanizes the issue, and reminds the reader that this is not a black and white issue.
You don’t need to read the first book in the series to follow the plot of A Blossom of Bright Light, but I would recommend doing so to gain a better understanding of Vega’s character.
Enjoying a rare evening-in with his girlfriend Adele, Jimmy encourages her to ignore a phone call from La Casa, the center that she runs for undocumented immigrants. Soon both Vega and Adele learn that ignoring this call led to the death of a newborn baby. Jimmy searches for the baby’s killer, while Adele ponders taking a job in D.C., which would allow her to play a larger role in helping undocumented immigrants.
At the same time, 15-year-old Luna’s life is about to change. Her father, an undocumented immigrant, is about to be deported to Mexico. Luna, who’s own documentation status is iffy, is left to care for her younger brother and sister. They are brought to live with the Gonzalez family. Luna knows there is something off about the Gonzalez’s, but having no power being a 15 year old girl who’s immigration status is in danger, has little power to fight.
What I love about this series is how Chazin shows the complexities surrounding immigration reform. She humanizes the issue, and reminds the reader that this is not a black and white issue.
You don’t need to read the first book in the series to follow the plot of A Blossom of Bright Light, but I would recommend doing so to gain a better understanding of Vega’s character.
December 1, 2015
This is a compelling thriller that carries with it central issues affecting countries. Illegal immigrants and those that would prey on them, and political corruption are explored head on.
After making a bad call, cop Jimmy has to deal with a dead new born baby. His guilt drives him to follow the trail and has repercussions with his relationship with Adele. The lives of immigrants and the on the edge life they experience is a realistic depiction of how it is.
The suspense driven narrative kept me glued to the book right up to the finale. This is the first Jimmy Vega I have read, and I am going to read the other. The author is an accomplished writer who creates superb characters that interact really well with each other. I would urge others to read this book! I gratefully received an ebook copy of this book from Kensington, the publishers via netgalley.
After making a bad call, cop Jimmy has to deal with a dead new born baby. His guilt drives him to follow the trail and has repercussions with his relationship with Adele. The lives of immigrants and the on the edge life they experience is a realistic depiction of how it is.
The suspense driven narrative kept me glued to the book right up to the finale. This is the first Jimmy Vega I have read, and I am going to read the other. The author is an accomplished writer who creates superb characters that interact really well with each other. I would urge others to read this book! I gratefully received an ebook copy of this book from Kensington, the publishers via netgalley.
October 15, 2015
This book deals with social and political issues we all face today, illegal immigrants and those who prey on them due to their fears and the corruption of those in politics. Jimmy Vega is a tough New York cop until he has to deal with a case involving a newborn baby found dead in the woods behind a Community Center with the umbilical cord still attached. He and his girlfriend had been together earlier in the evening when she received a call after a drunk goes into the Community Center and said he has seen the Virgin Mary with a baby. Jimmy does not believe that it is a credible story until he receives a call later calling him out to the Community Center to investigate the baby found behind it. The story has a few sub plots and thru it all Jimmy Vega tries to navigate his life. Great Read. I would like to thank the publisher and Net Galley for the chance to read this ARC.
November 20, 2015
This is a case of do not be mislead by the cover
Personally, I do not like the cover, however, I can look beyond this and read the blurb that took my attention, that being so, its definitely not a case of "do not judge a book by its cover", this is well worth reading.
We have a death of a child. A full grown infant found in the woods.
We have immigrants and violence, we have abuse of women and some really terrible political power pulling.
This is a story that will 'get you' it will 'keep you reading until the end' and if you have to lay your book down, to sleep, to do chores....you will be thinking of it.
Wanting to get back to it.
Jimmy Vega is the man investigating the death of the infact, but we now have a teenage body, because there is a connection to his own daughter he cannot handle the case. That doesn't stop him using his senses of inquiry, he wants and needs to protect his own daughter.
Its a strong up to date topical book. I can see this one being read at a book club for discussion as there are lots in this.
Strong plot. Good characters and a solid story.
*My thanks to Kensington Books via Net Galley for my copy*
October 31, 2016
I really enjoyed the first Jimmy Vega mystery, Land of Careful Shadows. With this one, Suzanne Chazin has raised the bar. I had a few minor issues with the writing in the first book, this one was flawless.
While this works a stand-alone mystery, I think part of the reason I enjoyed it so much is the fact that I was already familiar with Detective Jimmy Vega and Adele Figueroa, with whom Jimmy is now in a relationship. Jimmy and Adele are trying to make their relationship work, but then a decision they make one evening results in both of them feeling guilty for the death of a newborn baby.
Suzanne Chazin once again tackles the issues of immigration and the lives and relationships of documented and undocumented immigrants. The focus on the lives of children faced with the deportation of a parent was truly heart-breaking. Ms. Chazin has an amazing talent for making all the characters feel incredibly authentic. I think it would be hard to read this book with its wonderful imagery and not feel deeply touched by it. The sense of doom that kept building right up to the suspenseful finale kept me listening to this for hours on end. The audio is narrated by Thom Rivera and he does a fantastic job. So much so, that I have purchased the next audiobook in this series although I already had the print version via NetGalley.
A really compelling and powerful mystery, which is topical and contains subtle but thought-provoking social commentary. Highly recommended if you enjoy character-driven crime fiction with an intelligent storyline.
While this works a stand-alone mystery, I think part of the reason I enjoyed it so much is the fact that I was already familiar with Detective Jimmy Vega and Adele Figueroa, with whom Jimmy is now in a relationship. Jimmy and Adele are trying to make their relationship work, but then a decision they make one evening results in both of them feeling guilty for the death of a newborn baby.
Suzanne Chazin once again tackles the issues of immigration and the lives and relationships of documented and undocumented immigrants. The focus on the lives of children faced with the deportation of a parent was truly heart-breaking. Ms. Chazin has an amazing talent for making all the characters feel incredibly authentic. I think it would be hard to read this book with its wonderful imagery and not feel deeply touched by it. The sense of doom that kept building right up to the suspenseful finale kept me listening to this for hours on end. The audio is narrated by Thom Rivera and he does a fantastic job. So much so, that I have purchased the next audiobook in this series although I already had the print version via NetGalley.
A really compelling and powerful mystery, which is topical and contains subtle but thought-provoking social commentary. Highly recommended if you enjoy character-driven crime fiction with an intelligent storyline.
October 27, 2015
This one starts out gross with the investigators scratching their head and wondering WTH? This one involves scandal with a public figure running for office, immigration laws, forced deportation, greed, ethics, and the question - "what would you do for your child?".
This was definitely one that I did not want to put down but it was 4:00 in the morning and I was tired of the Ipad hitting me in the face. And I only had like an hour left to read. (Sad.)
This one will really get you rooting for this family who's father they are trying to deport. I won't tell you the reason why they want him deported. You'll just have to buy it and find out for yourself. You will never guess it. Yeah, it's disgusting.
Of course, there is also a little romance going on in here, but the sex is implied.
I think the story was well written, the characters were nicely developed with Adele finally coming to her senses. While this is fiction, I'm sure its non-fiction in many places all over the world. And that also is just sad.
A huge thanks to Kensington Books and Net Galley for providing me this free e-galley in exchange for an honest review. This was a heart pulsating, seesaw ride that I definitely enjoyed!
This was definitely one that I did not want to put down but it was 4:00 in the morning and I was tired of the Ipad hitting me in the face. And I only had like an hour left to read. (Sad.)
This one will really get you rooting for this family who's father they are trying to deport. I won't tell you the reason why they want him deported. You'll just have to buy it and find out for yourself. You will never guess it. Yeah, it's disgusting.
Of course, there is also a little romance going on in here, but the sex is implied.
I think the story was well written, the characters were nicely developed with Adele finally coming to her senses. While this is fiction, I'm sure its non-fiction in many places all over the world. And that also is just sad.
A huge thanks to Kensington Books and Net Galley for providing me this free e-galley in exchange for an honest review. This was a heart pulsating, seesaw ride that I definitely enjoyed!
January 27, 2020
4.5 hearts
I really enjoyed continuing this series. There are lots of issues in the books that relate to immigration. I love the police work and how Jimmy gathers information to solve the case. I love the growth of Jimmy's character.
I really enjoyed continuing this series. There are lots of issues in the books that relate to immigration. I love the police work and how Jimmy gathers information to solve the case. I love the growth of Jimmy's character.
October 27, 2015
This story is written so powerful my emotions were engaged completely. It brought tears to my eyes as I felt as the fear of undocumented immigrants about deportation. My feeling were engaged with the abuse suffer by woman. Jimmy Vega is investigating the death a of a full term infant found in the woods. Atan exposition a scent dog finds,the body of unknown teen. As his daughter is a person of interest he is not allowed to handle the case. His fear for his daughter is paramount as he goes about inquiring the events of the case. Evil is present in the community that Vega must find the answer and it will disrupt higher level of society.
Disclosure: I received a free copy from Kensington Books through Netgalley for an honest review. I would like,to thank them for this opportunity to read the book. The opinions are my own.
Disclosure: I received a free copy from Kensington Books through Netgalley for an honest review. I would like,to thank them for this opportunity to read the book. The opinions are my own.
October 10, 2015
Oh, so good, well-plotted, solid mystery. It had my attention right from the beginning. This powerhouse of a novel deals with sensitive issues and will keep you on the edge of your seat. Make sure you clear your calendar for this one.
July 24, 2016
I have to say that I love the side stories that Suzanne Chazin adds into her Detective Jimmy Vega series. And although I do love this series and the recurring characters of Jimmy Vega and Adele Figueroa, I am always touched to the core by the immigrant’s stories she adds to the mix. Chazin really captures what immigrants struggle with, their everyday lives, the things they worry about, the love they have for their families. I appreciate her so much for caring enough to portray what being an immigrant is really about. Both in this second book as with her first in the series, she has brought me to tears as I read the injustices immigrants face. She cares enough to give these faces a story. I would not have minded reading a whole book on the Serrano family alone. Their story broke my heart.
I won’t go into detail about the murder investigation in this book. Suffice to say that this story is about a dead baby and girl found in the woods. All this intermingles with the other characters’ side stories. Adele, Jimmy’s girlfriend, is teeter-totting between accepting a position in Washington D.C. or staying in town to pursue a blossoming relationship with Jimmy and being able to continue running her agency La Casa where she helps immigrants with different types of problems. This agency is her baby and she is very reluctant to leave it behind. Seeking aid for the Serrano family she becomes involved with some big honchos who may or may not be good people. She seeks their legal assistance to see if they can prevent Mr. Serrano from being deported and separated from his three kids. But everyone seems to have an ulterior motive, putting the lives of these three kids in danger as well as possibly separating this family for good.
The back and forth dance between Adele and Jimmy did become a little annoying where each is afraid to say what’s on their mind in regards to Adele’s possible move and what that holds for their relationship. Just say what’s on your mind. It felt like a bit of teasing for the reader. I’m also a little confused as to why Jimmy’s daughter Joy always has to have some kind of involvement in the crimes. If I’m correct, Joy was also a factor in the first book. I’m not sure that I completely love Joy. I feel she’s very dismissive of Jimmy and his need to protect her as a father. If I’m facing an accusation of murder and my father was a detective, you’d bet I’d be leaning on him for support and following to a tee all his advice. The one other minor issue I had was with Claudia, the bodega owner, and Esme, wife of an influential and successful businessman who is supposed to be helping the Serrano family. These two characters felt a little over the top, especially as things wrapped up.
One other thing I will say in favor of Chazin, is that she does not commit the sin of summarizing who each recurring character is as they pop up in the book. Somehow she manages to tell a new reader who a character is but doesn’t burden the continuing reader with having to have the previous book recapped for them . I have dropped some series in the past where each book has to give a recap of who the characters are, what happened in the last book, what a curmudgeon but lovable character such and such is, etc. This would work as a stand-alone book but then readers would miss out growing with these characters. I am definitely looking forward to more books in this series.
I won’t go into detail about the murder investigation in this book. Suffice to say that this story is about a dead baby and girl found in the woods. All this intermingles with the other characters’ side stories. Adele, Jimmy’s girlfriend, is teeter-totting between accepting a position in Washington D.C. or staying in town to pursue a blossoming relationship with Jimmy and being able to continue running her agency La Casa where she helps immigrants with different types of problems. This agency is her baby and she is very reluctant to leave it behind. Seeking aid for the Serrano family she becomes involved with some big honchos who may or may not be good people. She seeks their legal assistance to see if they can prevent Mr. Serrano from being deported and separated from his three kids. But everyone seems to have an ulterior motive, putting the lives of these three kids in danger as well as possibly separating this family for good.
The back and forth dance between Adele and Jimmy did become a little annoying where each is afraid to say what’s on their mind in regards to Adele’s possible move and what that holds for their relationship. Just say what’s on your mind. It felt like a bit of teasing for the reader. I’m also a little confused as to why Jimmy’s daughter Joy always has to have some kind of involvement in the crimes. If I’m correct, Joy was also a factor in the first book. I’m not sure that I completely love Joy. I feel she’s very dismissive of Jimmy and his need to protect her as a father. If I’m facing an accusation of murder and my father was a detective, you’d bet I’d be leaning on him for support and following to a tee all his advice. The one other minor issue I had was with Claudia, the bodega owner, and Esme, wife of an influential and successful businessman who is supposed to be helping the Serrano family. These two characters felt a little over the top, especially as things wrapped up.
One other thing I will say in favor of Chazin, is that she does not commit the sin of summarizing who each recurring character is as they pop up in the book. Somehow she manages to tell a new reader who a character is but doesn’t burden the continuing reader with having to have the previous book recapped for them . I have dropped some series in the past where each book has to give a recap of who the characters are, what happened in the last book, what a curmudgeon but lovable character such and such is, etc. This would work as a stand-alone book but then readers would miss out growing with these characters. I am definitely looking forward to more books in this series.
June 5, 2017
What a book! It kept me reading until 3 am last night.
I don't want to reveal to much of the very well and life-like crafted story. I just can tell, that when you guess who is involved in the crime things get even worse. The suspense is climbing up to an incredible level when Vega and Adele try so save the possible next victim.
Susanne Chazin doesn't only tell a gripping crime mystery, she shows us the difficulties we face in relationships, the hardships of being an undocumented immigrant, life within the hispanic communities, the manipulation and favoritism in politics, the effects of guilt.
The characters are multidimensional and it's easy to connect with them.
I recommend this book to readers who want gripping suspense with social-political-psychological background and believable characters.
I will look now for the first book of the series.
I want to thank NetGalley and Kensington books for the provided ARC.
I don't want to reveal to much of the very well and life-like crafted story. I just can tell, that when you guess who is involved in the crime things get even worse. The suspense is climbing up to an incredible level when Vega and Adele try so save the possible next victim.
Susanne Chazin doesn't only tell a gripping crime mystery, she shows us the difficulties we face in relationships, the hardships of being an undocumented immigrant, life within the hispanic communities, the manipulation and favoritism in politics, the effects of guilt.
The characters are multidimensional and it's easy to connect with them.
I recommend this book to readers who want gripping suspense with social-political-psychological background and believable characters.
I will look now for the first book of the series.
I want to thank NetGalley and Kensington books for the provided ARC.
November 4, 2015
A good, solid read. Predictable but characters were well developed and the immigration dilemma and subsequent crime was realistic and timely. strong series I would definitely read more of.
Provided by publisher
Provided by publisher
September 26, 2015
Sometimes a story is just a story. Other times, as with this book, it's an all-encompassing experience.
Let's start with the writing, which is, I think flawless. There is no sign of intrusion from the author. We are whisked away by the characters and brought to their world. We're like voyeurs in their lives, only better, because we can feel it as well as see it.
That brings us to the characters. They are... I was going to type 'realistic', but that's not right. They are simply - real. They could have popped off the pages and stood in front of me.
The plot is complex, intertwined, heartbreaking, and honest. This is a mystery, yes, but it's also literary and social commentary, and I mean that in the most complimentary way. The author's handling of Hispanic culture and immigration issues is pure magic. She reminds us, without ever interfering or forcing the plot, that immigration is not just a political soundbite. When we allow it to be about the politics, instead of the people, we lose a bit of our humanity.
When I picked this book to read, I didn't realize it was the second in a series. I had absolutely no problem connecting to or understanding the characters, so this works exceptionally well as a stand-alone.
*I received an ebook copy from the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for my honest review.*
Let's start with the writing, which is, I think flawless. There is no sign of intrusion from the author. We are whisked away by the characters and brought to their world. We're like voyeurs in their lives, only better, because we can feel it as well as see it.
That brings us to the characters. They are... I was going to type 'realistic', but that's not right. They are simply - real. They could have popped off the pages and stood in front of me.
The plot is complex, intertwined, heartbreaking, and honest. This is a mystery, yes, but it's also literary and social commentary, and I mean that in the most complimentary way. The author's handling of Hispanic culture and immigration issues is pure magic. She reminds us, without ever interfering or forcing the plot, that immigration is not just a political soundbite. When we allow it to be about the politics, instead of the people, we lose a bit of our humanity.
When I picked this book to read, I didn't realize it was the second in a series. I had absolutely no problem connecting to or understanding the characters, so this works exceptionally well as a stand-alone.
*I received an ebook copy from the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for my honest review.*
July 4, 2015
Continuing the exploits first introduced in Land of Careful Shadows, Jimmy Vega, who grew up in the Bronx, is no stranger to tough times and violence. He's a New York cop now dealing with a disturbing case. A newborn has been found dead in the woods behind a Community Center, umbilical cord still attached, and there is no sign of the mother. The baby is referred to as Baby Mercy until a more suitable name can be found.
Meanwhile, Jimmy's life is complicating and the life of the city is continuing. Jimmy's girlfriend is being offered a job in D.C... An illegal immigrant who has been in the U.S. for 14 years, working and raising his 3 motherless children, is scheduled for deportation. A lawyer with a great reputation and a thriving legal practice may be involved in child porn. A routine visit to an elderly lady to obtain information results in an unexpected arrest. Jimmy's daughter, Joy, donated some items to Goodwill, which have now been found at the scene of a crime.
Oh, my.
Well-written and full of surprises, this is a mystery worth reading.
I read this courtesy of Net Galley and the publisher. Expected publication November 24, 2015.
Meanwhile, Jimmy's life is complicating and the life of the city is continuing. Jimmy's girlfriend is being offered a job in D.C... An illegal immigrant who has been in the U.S. for 14 years, working and raising his 3 motherless children, is scheduled for deportation. A lawyer with a great reputation and a thriving legal practice may be involved in child porn. A routine visit to an elderly lady to obtain information results in an unexpected arrest. Jimmy's daughter, Joy, donated some items to Goodwill, which have now been found at the scene of a crime.
Oh, my.
Well-written and full of surprises, this is a mystery worth reading.
I read this courtesy of Net Galley and the publisher. Expected publication November 24, 2015.
September 14, 2020
Good second read in the series and was tripping over myself to get to the end!
October 27, 2015
On one of their few free nights together, Jimmy Vega and his girlfriend, Adele Figueroa, make a bad decision. That decision not only has a devastating effect on their relationship but wide-ranging effects in the immigrant community. Adele receives a call from her community center telling her that a well-known drunken vagrant has come in raving about seeing the Virgin Mary in the woods with a baby. Adele thinks she should go over and check it out, but Jimmy persuades her that it's nothing. No one can believe a story from such a notorious source. The booze has addled his brain. When Jimmy's cell phone rings in the early morning hours, calling him out to a death scene in those same woods, the two are devastated. Jimmy has been feeling that Adele is pulling away from him for several weeks; will this end the relationship for good? The dead body in the woods sets in motion a chain of shocking discoveries about some of the highest placed persons in Lake Holly. Not only are there predators among the immigrants, but those who pretend to be advocating for them.
A Blossom of Bright Light kept me on the edge of my seat and reading into the early hours. Once again, Suzanne Chazin has written a suspenseful novel with all too fallible characters. The innocence of the victims was, for me at least, very hard to deal with. Adele is fighting hard to keep the Serrano family from deportation, find out who is guilty of the murder and to resolve her own issues with her daughter as well as decide on a change of career. Jimmy, too, has his own family issues and the guilt of ignoring the telephone call. The ending is a real nail-biter, with what has to be the most unusual attempted murder imaginable.
I highly recommend A Blossom of Bright Light for anyone who likes a thriller with heart as well as thrills. Both this and the earlier book, Land of Careful Shadows, address issues that are all too often glossed over in the politically charged discussions of immigration today. Thanks to NetGalley.com and Kensington Books for an advance digital copy in return for an honest review.
RATING- 4.5 Stars
A Blossom of Bright Light kept me on the edge of my seat and reading into the early hours. Once again, Suzanne Chazin has written a suspenseful novel with all too fallible characters. The innocence of the victims was, for me at least, very hard to deal with. Adele is fighting hard to keep the Serrano family from deportation, find out who is guilty of the murder and to resolve her own issues with her daughter as well as decide on a change of career. Jimmy, too, has his own family issues and the guilt of ignoring the telephone call. The ending is a real nail-biter, with what has to be the most unusual attempted murder imaginable.
I highly recommend A Blossom of Bright Light for anyone who likes a thriller with heart as well as thrills. Both this and the earlier book, Land of Careful Shadows, address issues that are all too often glossed over in the politically charged discussions of immigration today. Thanks to NetGalley.com and Kensington Books for an advance digital copy in return for an honest review.
RATING- 4.5 Stars
October 19, 2015
Detective Jimmy Vega is having a romantic interlude with his love, Adele Figueroa, when Adele receives a phone call from a well-known drunk and homeless man named Zambo. Zambo tells her this drunken story about seeing 'The Lady of Sorrows' with a baby in her arms in the woods behind La Casa, the non-profit agency that Adele runs. Adele wants Jimmy to investigate this but he wants an undisturbed night with Adele. He regrets his decision throughout the rest of the book.
The next morning, a dead baby is found in the woods behind La Casa, and Zambo is nowhere to be found. Adele is angry with Jimmy but not more angry than he is with himself. He is investigating the baby's death when all sorts of interconnected crimes begin to arise.
Adele is a Harvard trained attorney who rose up from poverty by the strength of her motivation, intellect, and family support. Jimmy is a blue collar cop who used to be in a band. Both have been divorced and have children. Their relationship is loving but not firmly defined for either of them.
The novel takes place in the small community of Lake Holly, New York. It brings to life the hispanic community that resides there and the hierarchy that plays a large part in their lives. There is Claudia, who owns a bodega that most of the hispanic population go to for their traditional foods. Luis Serrano and his family play a big role in this novel. Luis is about to be deported and his three children are despondent. Domingo is a nanny who helps the family that she works for sell goods on EBAY for extra income. Charlie Gonzalez is the self-made man who owns a string of car washes and who has attained what others think is the American dream. All these characters are part of the sub-plots in the novel and each of their stories is interesting in their own right.
As Jimmy gets closer to solving the crime, he has to deal with conflicts of interest, political issues, his relationship with Adele and the ethics of his job as a detective. I found the book very interesting and if this is the start of a series I will likely read the next addition.
The next morning, a dead baby is found in the woods behind La Casa, and Zambo is nowhere to be found. Adele is angry with Jimmy but not more angry than he is with himself. He is investigating the baby's death when all sorts of interconnected crimes begin to arise.
Adele is a Harvard trained attorney who rose up from poverty by the strength of her motivation, intellect, and family support. Jimmy is a blue collar cop who used to be in a band. Both have been divorced and have children. Their relationship is loving but not firmly defined for either of them.
The novel takes place in the small community of Lake Holly, New York. It brings to life the hispanic community that resides there and the hierarchy that plays a large part in their lives. There is Claudia, who owns a bodega that most of the hispanic population go to for their traditional foods. Luis Serrano and his family play a big role in this novel. Luis is about to be deported and his three children are despondent. Domingo is a nanny who helps the family that she works for sell goods on EBAY for extra income. Charlie Gonzalez is the self-made man who owns a string of car washes and who has attained what others think is the American dream. All these characters are part of the sub-plots in the novel and each of their stories is interesting in their own right.
As Jimmy gets closer to solving the crime, he has to deal with conflicts of interest, political issues, his relationship with Adele and the ethics of his job as a detective. I found the book very interesting and if this is the start of a series I will likely read the next addition.
August 31, 2015
Ms. Chazin has managed to write a beautifully taut mystery/drama, with stunning visuals and exceedingly real characters. An all too prescient back drop of the struggles and triumphs of the undocumented, combined with a very uncomfortable, all too real series of crimes. The writing is so tight that you get glimpses of what's coming and it is terrifying. Even if mysteries or police procedurals aren't your cup of tea, the Jimmy Vega series is more than worth the read if only for the social commentary and the beautiful characters.
December 15, 2015
(2 1/2) Step into the Latino world of L.A. For this one. Jimmy Vega is a not too macho, somewhat sensitive and seemingly intelligent cop. All of that makes him a good protagonist. The story rumbles along with few surprises; the twists and turns are mostly predictable but so human, they still make your skin crawl a touch. A couple of good side characters, not much fluff and a reasonable ending made this book a nice endeavor. Not a must read situation but a good stop on the road.
January 30, 2016
this was a good fast pace book to read on a Saturday afternoon! illegals, immigrants, a dead baby, abuse, political power, lots going on to make this a page turner! And I didn't know this was book 2 of a series on this detective character so sometime will have to read the first book!
October 20, 2019
A Blossom of Bright Light is the second Jimmy Vega mystery I've read this year, and it's just as good as the first, if not better. The mystery here is more complicated, and the villain is not the character you might suspect.
Again, as a Latina, I especially appreciated the author's fair and nonstereotypical portrayal of the Latino undocumented community, and the challenges it faces. The only stereotype I could complain about is that of "A white woman with frizzy, gray hair and glasses on a chain around her neck..." being compared to a high school librarian. As a librarian, I notice this common (and inaccurate) description of those in my profession whenever it pops up. It's a tired one.
I look forward to reading the next in the series. In fact, I've already checked it out from the library.
Again, as a Latina, I especially appreciated the author's fair and nonstereotypical portrayal of the Latino undocumented community, and the challenges it faces. The only stereotype I could complain about is that of "A white woman with frizzy, gray hair and glasses on a chain around her neck..." being compared to a high school librarian. As a librarian, I notice this common (and inaccurate) description of those in my profession whenever it pops up. It's a tired one.
I look forward to reading the next in the series. In fact, I've already checked it out from the library.
October 27, 2022
A Blossom of Bright Light A Jimmy Vega Mystery Book 2 by Suzanne Chazin
448 Pages
Publisher: Kensington Books, Kensington
Release Date: October 27, 2015
Fiction (Adult), General Fiction (Adult), Mystery, Thriller
Jimmy Vega is a Latino police detective in New York. Adele Figueroa, former attorney, now runs a community center. They have a night planned together but things go awry when she gets a call that a man sees the Madonna in the woods with the baby Jesus. The next morning, Jimmy gets a call of an infant found dead behind the community center. Is it the same baby?
The book has a fast pace, the characters are developed, and it is written in the third person point of view. The book covers the lives of several immigrant families and what they go through while living undocumented. The reader feels the hardships the characters are going through in the story. It is easy to get drawn into this book.
448 Pages
Publisher: Kensington Books, Kensington
Release Date: October 27, 2015
Fiction (Adult), General Fiction (Adult), Mystery, Thriller
Jimmy Vega is a Latino police detective in New York. Adele Figueroa, former attorney, now runs a community center. They have a night planned together but things go awry when she gets a call that a man sees the Madonna in the woods with the baby Jesus. The next morning, Jimmy gets a call of an infant found dead behind the community center. Is it the same baby?
The book has a fast pace, the characters are developed, and it is written in the third person point of view. The book covers the lives of several immigrant families and what they go through while living undocumented. The reader feels the hardships the characters are going through in the story. It is easy to get drawn into this book.
Read
May 15, 2017I just finished "A Blossom Of Bright Light" by Suzanne Chazin.
Detective Jimmy Vega has a disturbing case. It involves the death, or murder, of a young teenager. The community, mostly Hispanic, is also confronted with deportation of a father. This is a murder mystery that could be taken from today's newspapers. It is artfully narrated, as it takes you into the workings of the police department. I enjoyed it a lot. -Bob K.
Detective Jimmy Vega has a disturbing case. It involves the death, or murder, of a young teenager. The community, mostly Hispanic, is also confronted with deportation of a father. This is a murder mystery that could be taken from today's newspapers. It is artfully narrated, as it takes you into the workings of the police department. I enjoyed it a lot. -Bob K.
June 22, 2020
This is the second in the series and even better than the first! Great characters and beautifully written. I'm impressed with this author!
October 27, 2015
Originally Posted: http://www.nerdprobs.com/books/book-r...
**A copy of this book was provided by the publisher through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.**
I love a good mystery. I have requirements to fill in order for a book to get the highest ratings. It has to be believable. It has to flow smoothly. And it has to have well-written character development and an ending you'd never guess. Suzanne Chazin nailed it on the head.
"A Blossom of Bright Light", the second book in the Jimmy Vega stories by Chazin, follows the story of New York homicide detective Jimmy Vega. One not foreign to struggle and violence, Vega finds himself battling a murder that would give anyone goosebumps. A newborn baby's body has been found, umbilical cord still attached, and no one to claim the body. Found near a popular community center, Vega finds himself twisted in a little closer than he cares for when the Hispanic community involved doesn't trust cops due to a recent deportation order on one of their own, and a girlfriend smack in the center. Vega is the type of cop you would want working on a case if you wanted justice served. He is a no nonsense type with the need to see it through to the end... no matter what his superiors say.
Chazin wrote characters that fit the story, developed them out and allowed the reader (myself) to peel back layers as if they were an onion. If you thought you knew everything, you didn't. And if you think you have it all figured out... you don't. With so many story lines going on, I thought I would dislike this story. I'm not a fan of multiple stories that end up tying into one because in the beginning it can be confusing. But Chazin pulled it off. Each story told an important part of the tale and slowly they wound together until an explosive climax. The story was visually rich and compelling the whole way. I couldn't put it down. If you are a fan of mystery, suspense, and a bit of scare... then pick up "A Blossom of Bright Light". This book will keep you guessing and flipping pages straight through to the very end. I guarantee you won't be disappointed.
**A copy of this book was provided by the publisher through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.**
I love a good mystery. I have requirements to fill in order for a book to get the highest ratings. It has to be believable. It has to flow smoothly. And it has to have well-written character development and an ending you'd never guess. Suzanne Chazin nailed it on the head.
"A Blossom of Bright Light", the second book in the Jimmy Vega stories by Chazin, follows the story of New York homicide detective Jimmy Vega. One not foreign to struggle and violence, Vega finds himself battling a murder that would give anyone goosebumps. A newborn baby's body has been found, umbilical cord still attached, and no one to claim the body. Found near a popular community center, Vega finds himself twisted in a little closer than he cares for when the Hispanic community involved doesn't trust cops due to a recent deportation order on one of their own, and a girlfriend smack in the center. Vega is the type of cop you would want working on a case if you wanted justice served. He is a no nonsense type with the need to see it through to the end... no matter what his superiors say.
Chazin wrote characters that fit the story, developed them out and allowed the reader (myself) to peel back layers as if they were an onion. If you thought you knew everything, you didn't. And if you think you have it all figured out... you don't. With so many story lines going on, I thought I would dislike this story. I'm not a fan of multiple stories that end up tying into one because in the beginning it can be confusing. But Chazin pulled it off. Each story told an important part of the tale and slowly they wound together until an explosive climax. The story was visually rich and compelling the whole way. I couldn't put it down. If you are a fan of mystery, suspense, and a bit of scare... then pick up "A Blossom of Bright Light". This book will keep you guessing and flipping pages straight through to the very end. I guarantee you won't be disappointed.
August 29, 2015
I received this from NetGalley to read and review. This is the second novel in the Jimmy Vega series. Once again, we find detective Jimmy Vega, from the Bronx, embroiled in mysteries and murder in his city. This time, the case involves a newborn found dead in the woods, with no sign of the mother. In addition, an illegal mother is scheduled for deportation, a well-known lawyer is suspected of child porn involvement, Jimmy’s girlfriend has a job offer in D.C., and his daughter has donated clothes to Goodwill which end up at a murder scene. Yes, there are lots of complications in Jimmy Vega’s life, which he and his girlfriend Adele must somehow work through. The author has managed to weave a well-written tale of what might be considered an average period in the life of this detective, filled with intriguing twists and turns that will keep you reading, waiting for the next shoe to drop. Yet, this book is more than that. The author has given us an insight into the challenging life of undocumented immigrants in the Hispanic community, how politics can and does play out in the city and how one police detective and his girlfriend must learn to cope with it all. The topic of undocumented immigrants is particularly big today, as we read and hear about it daily. However, the author has given us good insight into the reality undocumented immigrants live with and face daily. This book slowly burns its way through the reader’s mind and heart, culminating in a well-done finale. It was fascinating to see this life as the story played out. I hope to read more about Jimmy Vega, his girlfriend and their lives and all they face in the big city.
September 19, 2015
I stayed up way past my bedtime to finish this book. I couldn’t put it down!
As a stand-alone book this is an excellent novel, as a series I want to read more about these characters.
Detective Jimmy Vega’s relationship with Adele Figeroa , Harvard graduate lawyer running the Latino community center, La Casa, in Lake Holly is wonderful when they are together, but lately there seems to be a drifting apart he can’t figure out.
When Vega’s 18 yr old daughter Joy is suspected of involvement in the death of a young woman whose remains are found at her college campus his determination to prove her innocence puts more pressure on his time and his position at work.
The life of immigrants in the US, especially those who do not possess a green card, is an eye opener to most middle class Caucasians. This novel tells their story in riveting detail that reminded me of the society norms of a century ago. Compounding this with the political maneuvering of those willing to use whatever and whomever they need to in order to get ahead and be a success in their chosen area of fame and fortune made this a story I couldn’t put down.
Two plots running at the same time, one focusing on Adele and the other on Jimmy had me cheering they would find time to talk and to admit to themselves, as well as to each other, what they really need in their lives, be it alone or together.
I highly recommend this book and look forward to book 3. In the meantime I’ll be searching for Land of Careful Shadows, part 1 in this series
As a stand-alone book this is an excellent novel, as a series I want to read more about these characters.
Detective Jimmy Vega’s relationship with Adele Figeroa , Harvard graduate lawyer running the Latino community center, La Casa, in Lake Holly is wonderful when they are together, but lately there seems to be a drifting apart he can’t figure out.
When Vega’s 18 yr old daughter Joy is suspected of involvement in the death of a young woman whose remains are found at her college campus his determination to prove her innocence puts more pressure on his time and his position at work.
The life of immigrants in the US, especially those who do not possess a green card, is an eye opener to most middle class Caucasians. This novel tells their story in riveting detail that reminded me of the society norms of a century ago. Compounding this with the political maneuvering of those willing to use whatever and whomever they need to in order to get ahead and be a success in their chosen area of fame and fortune made this a story I couldn’t put down.
Two plots running at the same time, one focusing on Adele and the other on Jimmy had me cheering they would find time to talk and to admit to themselves, as well as to each other, what they really need in their lives, be it alone or together.
I highly recommend this book and look forward to book 3. In the meantime I’ll be searching for Land of Careful Shadows, part 1 in this series
October 4, 2015
This is Suzanne Chazin's second novel featuring Jimmy Vega, a police detective of Puerto Rican descent who lives in Lake Holly, New York. This is the first book I’ve read written by Ms. Chazin and it certainly won’t be the last. It is a mystery/drama, with great visuals and real characters. This book is not all action; there is a fair amount of character and relationship development. While the book deals with crimes, involving teenage girls and infant children and I appreciate that there was no graphic sex or violence. I would recommend this book to book clubs because there is so much more to discuss than just the mystery.
Jimmy Vega and his girlfriend, Adele Figueroa, have a rare free night together and make a bad decision that has a devastating effect on their relationship and one that affects the immigrant community. Adele receives a call from her community center telling her that a drunken vagrant is raving about seeing the Virgin Mary in the woods with a baby. Adele wants to go to the center but Jimmy persuades her to stay with him. When Jimmy receives a call in the early morning hours informing him about a death in those same woods, they are devastated. A newborn baby found dead behind La Casa, Adele's non-profit. Later, a dead teenager is found on the college campus Jimmy's daughter, Joy, attends and the dead girl is wearing Joy's hoodie.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review from Kensington and NetGalley.
Jimmy Vega and his girlfriend, Adele Figueroa, have a rare free night together and make a bad decision that has a devastating effect on their relationship and one that affects the immigrant community. Adele receives a call from her community center telling her that a drunken vagrant is raving about seeing the Virgin Mary in the woods with a baby. Adele wants to go to the center but Jimmy persuades her to stay with him. When Jimmy receives a call in the early morning hours informing him about a death in those same woods, they are devastated. A newborn baby found dead behind La Casa, Adele's non-profit. Later, a dead teenager is found on the college campus Jimmy's daughter, Joy, attends and the dead girl is wearing Joy's hoodie.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review from Kensington and NetGalley.
October 20, 2015
A Blossom of Bright Light., bySuzanne Chazin, is the second novel in her Jimmy Vega mystery series. The series is set in upscale Holly Lake, NY. Bronx native Detective Jimmy Vega is thrown into an investigation of heinous proportions when the bodies of a young mother and her infant are found in separate locations. Was this what the alcoholic vagrant Zambo was trying to tell Jimmy's girlfriend, Adele Figueroa, the night before Zambo went missing?
There are dark secrets buried deep within the walls of the elite Holly Lake neighborhoods, secrets whose tentacles may reach as far as D.C. When another young girl appears to be in the crosshairs of evil and Vega's daughter has been implicated in the crimes, Jimmy must go against orders to stand down from the investigation in order to blow open the case.
Ms. Chazin's experiences working with undocumented people and the stories she gathered led her to the development of the Jimmy Vega mysteries. She brIngs in serious topics including abuse, physical, sexual, and emotional. She also demonstrates the hopelessness that can occur in those seeking the "dream".
Written with beautifully crafted literary flow, A Blossom of Bright Light, will take you on a wild ride to solve the initial deaths and prevent even more. It is a real page turner that engrosses the reader to the very end. I highly recommend this book
There are dark secrets buried deep within the walls of the elite Holly Lake neighborhoods, secrets whose tentacles may reach as far as D.C. When another young girl appears to be in the crosshairs of evil and Vega's daughter has been implicated in the crimes, Jimmy must go against orders to stand down from the investigation in order to blow open the case.
Ms. Chazin's experiences working with undocumented people and the stories she gathered led her to the development of the Jimmy Vega mysteries. She brIngs in serious topics including abuse, physical, sexual, and emotional. She also demonstrates the hopelessness that can occur in those seeking the "dream".
Written with beautifully crafted literary flow, A Blossom of Bright Light, will take you on a wild ride to solve the initial deaths and prevent even more. It is a real page turner that engrosses the reader to the very end. I highly recommend this book
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