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Cassidy Clarke #2
The Lost Angels: A Thriller
In this follow-up to Hollywood Hit Men, Officer Cassidy Clarke investigates a cultish figure whose powerful pull is driving homeless teens to put their faith—and lives—in his dangerous hands.
Back from leave after her first closed case, Cassidy Clarke returns to the LAPD, ready to dig in. This time, homeless teens are disappearing. And it’s not because of social reform—they’re being targeted.
Cassidy follows a lead to a charismatic grad student who leans on his charm and vast resources to lure vulnerable kids under his wing. But when the people who could expose him start turning up dead, she abruptly switches focus, racing to protect his potential victims instead.
People like Evie, the street-smart unhoused teenager Cassidy’s father is trying to help, even as his own past comes calling. Retired officer Bill Clarke has enough on his plate without getting involved in another investigation, but Evie strikes a chord neither Cassidy nor Bill can ignore.
As the stakes—and body count—grow higher, Cassidy ventures deeper into LA’s seedy underground. But beneath the city’s bright lights and glamour, an even darker truth awaits…
Back from leave after her first closed case, Cassidy Clarke returns to the LAPD, ready to dig in. This time, homeless teens are disappearing. And it’s not because of social reform—they’re being targeted.
Cassidy follows a lead to a charismatic grad student who leans on his charm and vast resources to lure vulnerable kids under his wing. But when the people who could expose him start turning up dead, she abruptly switches focus, racing to protect his potential victims instead.
People like Evie, the street-smart unhoused teenager Cassidy’s father is trying to help, even as his own past comes calling. Retired officer Bill Clarke has enough on his plate without getting involved in another investigation, but Evie strikes a chord neither Cassidy nor Bill can ignore.
As the stakes—and body count—grow higher, Cassidy ventures deeper into LA’s seedy underground. But beneath the city’s bright lights and glamour, an even darker truth awaits…
255 pages, Paperback
First published April 28, 2026
About the author
Michele Domínguez Greene
7 books53 followersMichele Dominguez Greene (born February 3, 1962) is an American actress, singer, and author. She is known for her role as attorney Abby Perkins on the TV series L.A. Law from 1986 to 1991, for which she was nominated for a 1989 Primetime Emmy Award. She reprised the role in the 2002 TV reunion film L.A. Law: The Movie.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
January 1, 2026
Greene’s forthcoming book (April 2026) is the second in her Cassidy Clarke series, set in the rundown wasteland of Hollywood where homeless teenage runaways try to survive between running from the law and being preyed on by predators. We get to know a handful of these kids including Evie, Princess, and Layla. But some of these kids have been disappearing off the streets even though they try to keep tabs on each other by sharing license plates of tricks who pick them up.
When Evie loses touch with a scared Layla, she meets Cassidy’s father Bill, a retired police detective who decides he can still be useful by taking on his first private eye client. Bill may no longer have the Department’s resources, but he takes the case seriously, poking around here and that. Shocked though he is at finding out how easily the kids’ families cast them aside and left them to wander through the he’ll that is. Is Hollywood streets.
Cassidy and her partner are conducting a parallel investigation under official auspices. Meanwhile, we as readers learn from Layla’s pony of view what happened to her, kidnapped by a wanna-be Charles Manson, who has lured many of her friends to be treats for wild drug and sex parties.
The title “the Lost Angels,” while a play on the city’s name, reveals the focus of this quick-moving, easy to read thriller.
When Evie loses touch with a scared Layla, she meets Cassidy’s father Bill, a retired police detective who decides he can still be useful by taking on his first private eye client. Bill may no longer have the Department’s resources, but he takes the case seriously, poking around here and that. Shocked though he is at finding out how easily the kids’ families cast them aside and left them to wander through the he’ll that is. Is Hollywood streets.
Cassidy and her partner are conducting a parallel investigation under official auspices. Meanwhile, we as readers learn from Layla’s pony of view what happened to her, kidnapped by a wanna-be Charles Manson, who has lured many of her friends to be treats for wild drug and sex parties.
The title “the Lost Angels,” while a play on the city’s name, reveals the focus of this quick-moving, easy to read thriller.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Homeless teens are disappearing. The lights of Hollywood might be bright but they are only a distraction from the crime that runs rampant in the city. Patrol officers Cassidy Clarke and Sean Riley become part of the investigation which is quickly revealed to be something even bigger and more evil than could be imagined.
This is the second book in the Cassidy Clarke series but I had no trouble jumping right in. The storyline from the previous book is discussed and some leftover threads are still at play in this book. It all comes together in a dark and action filled tale.
The Lost Angels reminds me of your favorite crime show. Viewpoints switch between several different characters as they all have something going on. It's like we're checking in with the ones who have less page time. However that doesn't mean their scenes aren't important or tension filled.
The main crime that's being solved involves the missing teens. There is a lot of heartbreak and a little hope. There are some likeable characters amongst the bad guys which helps because the story is quite dark. Not everyone is going to get a happy ending. Cassidy and Riley are good police officers, but they can't be everywhere at once. The Lost Angels is a quick read. I kept reading because I needed to see what was going to happen.
Thanks to Netgalley for the chance to read! All opinions are my own.
This is the second book in the Cassidy Clarke series but I had no trouble jumping right in. The storyline from the previous book is discussed and some leftover threads are still at play in this book. It all comes together in a dark and action filled tale.
The Lost Angels reminds me of your favorite crime show. Viewpoints switch between several different characters as they all have something going on. It's like we're checking in with the ones who have less page time. However that doesn't mean their scenes aren't important or tension filled.
The main crime that's being solved involves the missing teens. There is a lot of heartbreak and a little hope. There are some likeable characters amongst the bad guys which helps because the story is quite dark. Not everyone is going to get a happy ending. Cassidy and Riley are good police officers, but they can't be everywhere at once. The Lost Angels is a quick read. I kept reading because I needed to see what was going to happen.
Thanks to Netgalley for the chance to read! All opinions are my own.
May 14, 2026
This was a dark and gritty thriller that pulled me in pretty quickly. The story follows Cassidy Clarke as she investigates missing homeless teens and a manipulative cult-like figure who preys on vulnerable kids in Los Angeles.
What I enjoyed most was the atmosphere. The author really shows the darker side of Hollywood and LA instead of the glamorized version we usually see. The case itself was unsettling because it felt believable, especially with the way vulnerable teens were manipulated into trusting the wrong person.
I also liked the dynamic between Cassidy and her father, Bill. Their relationship added an emotional layer to the story without taking away from the investigation. Evie was another standout character for me and honestly one of the reasons I stayed emotionally invested in the story.
The pacing was solid, the stakes kept getting higher, and the multiple POVs helped build tension throughout the book. At times it felt a little heavy with all the dark themes, but overall it kept me wanting to know what would happen next.
What I enjoyed most was the atmosphere. The author really shows the darker side of Hollywood and LA instead of the glamorized version we usually see. The case itself was unsettling because it felt believable, especially with the way vulnerable teens were manipulated into trusting the wrong person.
I also liked the dynamic between Cassidy and her father, Bill. Their relationship added an emotional layer to the story without taking away from the investigation. Evie was another standout character for me and honestly one of the reasons I stayed emotionally invested in the story.
The pacing was solid, the stakes kept getting higher, and the multiple POVs helped build tension throughout the book. At times it felt a little heavy with all the dark themes, but overall it kept me wanting to know what would happen next.
May 8, 2026
I really enjoyed this one. The books is about a group of homeless teenagers who go missing and the search for them. It was an interesting story and things happened that I didn’t see coming.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thanks to Thomas & Mercer and Netgalley for this eARC.
Michele Domínguez Greene’s The Lost Angels is a sharp, emotionally grounded police procedural that deepens the world of Officer Cassidy Clarke while widening the moral terrain she has to navigate. Set against the sprawling, often unforgiving backdrop of Los Angeles, the novel blends suspense with a compassionate look at the city’s most vulnerable residents—unhoused teens who are disappearing under mysterious and increasingly ominous circumstances.
Cassidy Clarke returns from leave determined to prove herself, but Greene doesn’t treat her as a hardened archetype. Instead, Cassidy is written with a refreshing mix of competence, self-doubt, and stubborn integrity. Her investigation into a charismatic graduate student—whose influence over homeless youth feels both seductive and predatory—gives the novel its central tension. The stakes escalate quickly as people connected to the case begin turning up dead, and Cassidy’s focus shifts from solving a crime to preventing a tragedy.
One of the book’s strengths is the interplay between Cassidy and her father, Bill Clarke, a retired officer who becomes entangled in the case through his efforts to help Evie, a street-smart teen with more resilience than resources. Their relationship adds emotional texture without slowing the pace. Bill’s past shadows the present in ways that feel organic, not melodramatic, and Evie emerges as a character who lingers in the mind after reading the last page.
Greene uses the thriller framework to explore:
- Charisma as a weapon—how vulnerable people can be drawn into dangerous or controlling environments.
- Institutional blind spots—the ways systems fail those who need them most.
- The cost of doing the right thing—especially for those in law enforcement who refuse to look away.
These themes give the novel a moral weight that elevates it beyond a standard procedural.
The pacing is brisk without feeling rushed. Greene’s Los Angeles is atmospheric but not glamorized—sunlit, gritty, and full of contradictions. The tension builds steadily, and the final act delivers urgency and emotional payoff.
The Lost Angels is a thoughtful, character-driven thriller that balances suspense with empathy. Readers who appreciate police procedurals with strong female leads, layered relationships, and socially conscious storytelling will find a lot to admire here. It’s a worthy continuation of Cassidy Clarke’s journey and a promising sign of where the series is headed.
After I finished The Lost Angels, I read Hollywood Hit Men, the first book in this series. I liked Hollywood Hit Men and I would rate it a solid 4 stars, but I loved The Lost Angels, hence my 5 star rating.
Note: Either book reads fine as a stand-alone.
Comparing Hollywood Hit Men and The Lost Angels
Michele Domínguez Greene’s Cassidy Clarke series begins with Hollywood Hit Men, a sharp, fast-moving procedural that introduces a capable but still-forming protagonist. The Lost Angels builds on that foundation with a more emotionally layered, socially conscious story that expands both the stakes and the moral terrain of the series. Looking at them side by side reveals how Greene grows her world, her characters, and her thematic ambitions.
The first book is a stylish thriller; the second book provides a deeper, more human investigation.
Michele Domínguez Greene’s The Lost Angels is a sharp, emotionally grounded police procedural that deepens the world of Officer Cassidy Clarke while widening the moral terrain she has to navigate. Set against the sprawling, often unforgiving backdrop of Los Angeles, the novel blends suspense with a compassionate look at the city’s most vulnerable residents—unhoused teens who are disappearing under mysterious and increasingly ominous circumstances.
Cassidy Clarke returns from leave determined to prove herself, but Greene doesn’t treat her as a hardened archetype. Instead, Cassidy is written with a refreshing mix of competence, self-doubt, and stubborn integrity. Her investigation into a charismatic graduate student—whose influence over homeless youth feels both seductive and predatory—gives the novel its central tension. The stakes escalate quickly as people connected to the case begin turning up dead, and Cassidy’s focus shifts from solving a crime to preventing a tragedy.
One of the book’s strengths is the interplay between Cassidy and her father, Bill Clarke, a retired officer who becomes entangled in the case through his efforts to help Evie, a street-smart teen with more resilience than resources. Their relationship adds emotional texture without slowing the pace. Bill’s past shadows the present in ways that feel organic, not melodramatic, and Evie emerges as a character who lingers in the mind after reading the last page.
Greene uses the thriller framework to explore:
- Charisma as a weapon—how vulnerable people can be drawn into dangerous or controlling environments.
- Institutional blind spots—the ways systems fail those who need them most.
- The cost of doing the right thing—especially for those in law enforcement who refuse to look away.
These themes give the novel a moral weight that elevates it beyond a standard procedural.
The pacing is brisk without feeling rushed. Greene’s Los Angeles is atmospheric but not glamorized—sunlit, gritty, and full of contradictions. The tension builds steadily, and the final act delivers urgency and emotional payoff.
The Lost Angels is a thoughtful, character-driven thriller that balances suspense with empathy. Readers who appreciate police procedurals with strong female leads, layered relationships, and socially conscious storytelling will find a lot to admire here. It’s a worthy continuation of Cassidy Clarke’s journey and a promising sign of where the series is headed.
After I finished The Lost Angels, I read Hollywood Hit Men, the first book in this series. I liked Hollywood Hit Men and I would rate it a solid 4 stars, but I loved The Lost Angels, hence my 5 star rating.
Note: Either book reads fine as a stand-alone.
Comparing Hollywood Hit Men and The Lost Angels
Michele Domínguez Greene’s Cassidy Clarke series begins with Hollywood Hit Men, a sharp, fast-moving procedural that introduces a capable but still-forming protagonist. The Lost Angels builds on that foundation with a more emotionally layered, socially conscious story that expands both the stakes and the moral terrain of the series. Looking at them side by side reveals how Greene grows her world, her characters, and her thematic ambitions.
The first book is a stylish thriller; the second book provides a deeper, more human investigation.
May 3, 2026
The Lost Angels: A Thriller by Michele Domínguez Greene is a direct sequel to the Hollywood Hitmen novel of last year. Like that book, this read is not really a thriller though it is a bit grittier. This read is more like an actual police procedural as well.
The plight of young children and teens on the streets is a nationwide problem. It is also the main storyline of The Lost Angels: A Thriller. Evie Peacock is one of those teens on the streets of Los Angeles doing almost anything to survive. As the book opens on a rainy night, she is seventeen, and very worried about her friend, Layla Waters. The same friend, Layla Waters, who had called her a couple of days earlier, and said the guy she had been living with was bad news after all. She had promised come back to Evie and the others in their small group who all look out for each other. She also wanted to show Evie something so they could figure out what to do and who to tell about it.
That was not to be.
Soon, Officer Cassidy Clarke, just back at work in the LAPD after a stress leave due to recent events, will be part of the hunt for the missing Layla. So, too will her father, Bill Clarke, who is on a better mental footing these days, thanks to the medication he is now on and other things. It would be helpful if the killer languishing in prison would stop calling for him.
Then there is Melinda Drake, director of the Kidz Club house, who is just about at her wits end. She runs a resource center and overnight shelter for homeless teens and runaways. Her place is a sanctuary for those living on the streets. It is a well-known refuge and sorely needed.
She flags down Cassidy and Officer Sean Riley while they are on patrol. She wants to follow up on numerous phone calls she has made regarding several missing kids. She knows of at least five kids who used to be frequent guests and now have seemingly disappeared. She also knows of a very low-level pimp, Aiden Howe, who used to be around all the time, and now is not.
She’s called in repeatedly to report these situations. She’s talked to Captain Dykstra of the Hollywood Station, who promised somebody would come by and take a report. Nobody ever did, no matter how many times she called. So, she flagged down Cassidy and Riley to ask, again, that somebody listen and do something.
Using her data terminal in their patrol car, Cassidy files a report for each of the missing kids so that the investigative ball gets rolling. Cassidy isn’t about to just file the reports and move on either. Neither will her former detective father, now retired and working as a private investigator, as he never lets anything go. Both of them and others will work the cases of the missing kids while also working other cases and dealing with past and present events in various storylines.
While an incredibly depressing topic when one thinks about the thousands and thousands of kids living on the streets of this country, the topic is handled well in The Lost Angels: A Thriller by Michele Domínguez Greene. Plenty of action and mystery are present in this read that also concludes several over arching storylines from the first book. The resulting read is far more of a police procedural than the cozy style first book. That fact made it, for this reader, a far more entertaining and enjoyable read.
My digital ARC came from the publisher, Thomas & Mercer, through NetGalley, with no expectation of a positive review.
Kevin R. Tipple ©2026
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I loved this book but you definitely need tissues, well I did and I am still tearing up thinking about it as I write this review. I should point out I cry at Disney films and my preferred genre is cozy mysteries but I was captivated by the first book in the series and despite needing the tissues this book didn't disappoint.
The book continues on from where the Hollywood Hit men left off and while it is a new case, some of the last case still needs wrapping up, which is why I would recommend you read them BOTH but I definitely recommend you read them. Especially if you like edge of your seat thrillers, where the good guys don't always win, no matter how much you want a happy ending and there is nothing cozy about this series but I loved it.
I liked the characters and you get to know them so well, that went when the bad guys start to think about them your heart literally drops into your stomach. The street kids plight was so real and made you think how unfair life is, that you just wanted to adopt them all and keep them safe. I especially liked the brave and plucky Evie.
As for the case it was fast moving, emotionally charged and well worked, so all the pieces came together nicely. Eagerly anticipating the next book
When the owner of a children's shelter flags down Cassidy and her partner, about missing teenage runaway she had no idea how big the case would get. The missing children are last seen with the same unidentified man before they start showing up on home security systems after break ins. When Bill, Cassidy's retired dad joins them at the shelter to help talk to the kids, he gets his first client as a private detective, when one of the teens hires him to find her missing friend. Time runs out when a body is found dumped in the park and the missing teens case turns into something a lot more deadly, a homicide case. The closer Cassidy's team and Bill get to the culprit the more bodies they find but he isn't the only killer in town. This one they know well and he is targeting cops. Can both killers be stopped before the bodies out number the living?
I liked the narrator. She took you on a roller coaster ride of emotions, right along side the characters and didn't let up until the very end. A great performance.
I was given this free review copy audio book at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
The book continues on from where the Hollywood Hit men left off and while it is a new case, some of the last case still needs wrapping up, which is why I would recommend you read them BOTH but I definitely recommend you read them. Especially if you like edge of your seat thrillers, where the good guys don't always win, no matter how much you want a happy ending and there is nothing cozy about this series but I loved it.
I liked the characters and you get to know them so well, that went when the bad guys start to think about them your heart literally drops into your stomach. The street kids plight was so real and made you think how unfair life is, that you just wanted to adopt them all and keep them safe. I especially liked the brave and plucky Evie.
As for the case it was fast moving, emotionally charged and well worked, so all the pieces came together nicely. Eagerly anticipating the next book
When the owner of a children's shelter flags down Cassidy and her partner, about missing teenage runaway she had no idea how big the case would get. The missing children are last seen with the same unidentified man before they start showing up on home security systems after break ins. When Bill, Cassidy's retired dad joins them at the shelter to help talk to the kids, he gets his first client as a private detective, when one of the teens hires him to find her missing friend. Time runs out when a body is found dumped in the park and the missing teens case turns into something a lot more deadly, a homicide case. The closer Cassidy's team and Bill get to the culprit the more bodies they find but he isn't the only killer in town. This one they know well and he is targeting cops. Can both killers be stopped before the bodies out number the living?
I liked the narrator. She took you on a roller coaster ride of emotions, right along side the characters and didn't let up until the very end. A great performance.
I was given this free review copy audio book at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Officer Clarke is investigating a spate of missing displaced teenagers. It’s not because of social reform or support for the vulnerable group, it’s because they are being targeted. A cultish figure has the teens putting their lives in his dangerous hands. He has the charm, the vast resources and a powerful pull. But when the people who could expose him start turning up dead, the police must race to protect his potential victims. This includes people like Evie.
Evie is seventeen and alone. Her mother has ran off to start a new life and her father is dead. Her best friend on the streets, Layla, is missing and she does everything in her power to find her. This includes hiring Officer Clarkes dad, and former Detective, Bill, as a Private Investigator. Can they find Layla in time, as well as all the other ‘Lost Angels of LA’?
As the stakes - and body count - grows higher, the police venture deeper into LA’s seedy underground world. Beneath the city’s bright lights and glamour, is an even darker truth …
This fast-paced, mystery and tense thriller is an easy read with an engaging plot. A harrowing story that made me think of the tens of thousands of children within child protective services who have terrible experiences, missing children/those in crisis who live without shelter and safety as well as the high risk environment and situations they survive daily.
There are a lot of characters within this story that does get a little confusing at times and I found I had to note a couple as a reminder. The development of the environment, including the contrast of tourist LA vs underground LA, is really well done within this story and adds more layers and depth.
I hadn’t read the first story in this series ‘Hollywood Hit Men’ and I think it would be worth reading this to understand the dynamics within the Group of Police Officers and mentioning of previous cases, however it can stand alone as a story.
Thank you to NetGallery, Thomas and Mercer and Michele Dominguez Greene for the ARC copy of this group.
Evie is seventeen and alone. Her mother has ran off to start a new life and her father is dead. Her best friend on the streets, Layla, is missing and she does everything in her power to find her. This includes hiring Officer Clarkes dad, and former Detective, Bill, as a Private Investigator. Can they find Layla in time, as well as all the other ‘Lost Angels of LA’?
As the stakes - and body count - grows higher, the police venture deeper into LA’s seedy underground world. Beneath the city’s bright lights and glamour, is an even darker truth …
This fast-paced, mystery and tense thriller is an easy read with an engaging plot. A harrowing story that made me think of the tens of thousands of children within child protective services who have terrible experiences, missing children/those in crisis who live without shelter and safety as well as the high risk environment and situations they survive daily.
There are a lot of characters within this story that does get a little confusing at times and I found I had to note a couple as a reminder. The development of the environment, including the contrast of tourist LA vs underground LA, is really well done within this story and adds more layers and depth.
I hadn’t read the first story in this series ‘Hollywood Hit Men’ and I think it would be worth reading this to understand the dynamics within the Group of Police Officers and mentioning of previous cases, however it can stand alone as a story.
Thank you to NetGallery, Thomas and Mercer and Michele Dominguez Greene for the ARC copy of this group.
December 10, 2025
Title: The Lost Angels: A Thriller
Series: Cassidy Clarke Book #2
Author: Michelle Dominguez Greene
Publisher: Thomas & Mercer
Genre: Mystery Thriller
Pub Date: April 28, 2026
My Rating: 3.5 Stars
Pages: 255
This is my first read in this series. I have been following the Agent Emily Ray series and they have been very emotional gut I have enjoyed them. I liked this author so was sure I would like this series as well.
Story starts with seventeen year old Evie Peacock is homeless living on the street of East Hollywood. She found Layla, Princess, Clyde, and Pebbles other homeless teens who have become friends and look out for one another. Layla Waters is kind of the leader of the group but she has met a guy who is now her boyfriend and has been taking up a lot of time. One evening when Layla is out with him -things go wrong and she calls Evie for help. However, when Evie gets there she is gone.
Soon she isn’t the only missing teens.
Cassidy Clarke has returns to the LAPD, ready to dig in when she and her partner start investigating why so many homeless teens are disappearing. It appears they are being targeted.
Cassidy follows a lead to a grad student who has resources to help and takes these vulnerable teens under his wing. But when the people who could expose him start turning up dead, Cassidy switches as she needs to protect his potential victims.
When Cassidy joined the LAPD, she didn’t plan on following in her father’s footsteps.as Detective Bill Clarke has big shoes to fill. He does respect her and yet still wants to be involved He has retired and has a PI license. Although he has a lot on his plate when he hears about this case he wants to help. Evie is someone neither Cassidy nor Bill can ignore.
Bill Clarke was more involved that I expected but it turned out to be good.
Want to thank NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for this eGalley.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for April 28, 2026.
Series: Cassidy Clarke Book #2
Author: Michelle Dominguez Greene
Publisher: Thomas & Mercer
Genre: Mystery Thriller
Pub Date: April 28, 2026
My Rating: 3.5 Stars
Pages: 255
This is my first read in this series. I have been following the Agent Emily Ray series and they have been very emotional gut I have enjoyed them. I liked this author so was sure I would like this series as well.
Story starts with seventeen year old Evie Peacock is homeless living on the street of East Hollywood. She found Layla, Princess, Clyde, and Pebbles other homeless teens who have become friends and look out for one another. Layla Waters is kind of the leader of the group but she has met a guy who is now her boyfriend and has been taking up a lot of time. One evening when Layla is out with him -things go wrong and she calls Evie for help. However, when Evie gets there she is gone.
Soon she isn’t the only missing teens.
Cassidy Clarke has returns to the LAPD, ready to dig in when she and her partner start investigating why so many homeless teens are disappearing. It appears they are being targeted.
Cassidy follows a lead to a grad student who has resources to help and takes these vulnerable teens under his wing. But when the people who could expose him start turning up dead, Cassidy switches as she needs to protect his potential victims.
When Cassidy joined the LAPD, she didn’t plan on following in her father’s footsteps.as Detective Bill Clarke has big shoes to fill. He does respect her and yet still wants to be involved He has retired and has a PI license. Although he has a lot on his plate when he hears about this case he wants to help. Evie is someone neither Cassidy nor Bill can ignore.
Bill Clarke was more involved that I expected but it turned out to be good.
Want to thank NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for this eGalley.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for April 28, 2026.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
i went into this without reading the first book in the series, and i do think that affected my experience a little. while the lost angels can technically stand on its own, there are clearly ongoing character dynamics and backstories that would have had more emotional weight if i’d read hollywood hit men first. i found myself occasionally trying to catch up with relationships and references rather than fully settling into them, so i’d definitely recommend reading this series in order if you can.
that said, i still appreciated a lot about this book, especially the setting and tone. the los angeles backdrop is used really well here, not just as a glamorous surface but as something layered and unsettling underneath. the contrast between the bright, almost cinematic image of la and the darker undercurrent of exploitation and vulnerability adds a lot of depth to the story. the plot itself, focusing on missing homeless teens and a manipulative, cult-like figure, felt quite grounded and socially aware. it actually reminded me a bit of the silence of the lambs in the way it balances procedural investigation with psychological tension, though in a more modern and less graphic way.
the writing is straightforward and engaging, and the pacing keeps you moving through the investigation without getting lost. i also liked the emotional thread between cassidy and her father, which adds a more personal layer to what could otherwise be a very plot-driven story. overall, this was a solid and interesting read for me, and one i would recommend, especially to readers who enjoy darker police procedurals with strong social themes. i’d just say, start with the first book to get the full impact of the series.
thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for the arc 💜
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I really like this author’s books. Her other series is how I discovered her, and I’m a huge fan of that one. I wasn’t so sure about this series because there was a lot that I wasn’t stoked on with the first book. I actually like this one better than the first one. It could be because I’m sick to death of the corrupt abusive cop trope. But this book veered away from that and I’m so glad. I really loved the characterization in this one, especially Miss Evie. She was quite the pistol! All joking aside, I know some people might have a hard time with the subject matter seeing as how it deals with childhood homelessness, abuse, and sexual assault. I liked it because it talked about something that people don’t generally talk about. I experienced a brief stint of homelessness when I first got sober. But my husband was homeless at 12 years old. By himself. He was one of those kids, and he ran away from group homes for the exact reason these kids did. So it was interesting to read it from this perspective and not just the criminal kids aspect. We’ve both actually considered volunteering and speaking with at risk youth for this reason, me about my alcoholism and him about being a homeless kid who was involved in a lot of bad stuff because he didn’t feel like he had a choice. This story addressed a lot of those things, and unfortunately, it was pretty accurate. But bringing the kids into the case was a really nice touch. It was definitely a page turner and I genuinely enjoyed it.
Huge thanks to Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley for sending me this ARC for review! All of my reviews are given honestly!
Huge thanks to Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley for sending me this ARC for review! All of my reviews are given honestly!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Cassidy Clarke is back after the Hollywood Hit Men arrests. She and Sean Riley, her patrol partner, jump right in to a case of missing homeless kids and teens and a string of residential burglaries that may or may not be connected. Layla, Evie, Clyde, Pebble, Princess and ten other missing kids are part of the Kidz Clubhouse. A resource center for homeless teens and runaways run by Melinda Drake. Evie sets out to look for Layla,who claims to have information on who and what is happening to the missing kids. Bill Clarke, Cassidy's dad is now a PI and he become involved in the missing kids case while following up on an old cold case. As the search for the kids intensifies, bodies start to appear and Cassidy and Riley are becoming frustrated that they can't find their main suspect. Also, someone from a past case is back to haunt and even kill those officers involved in the case.
A very touching and exhilarating read. Homelessness is a crisis and I was pleasantly surprised that this book touched on that. Bill really showed up for Evie and the kids from the Clubhouse. I really enjoyed the kids. Princess, Layla and Evie were my favorite and poor Pebble really had a traumatic experience but was able to identify the killer. Another great read by one of my favorite authors.
Thank you Netgalley and Thomas & Mercer/ Amazon Publishing for this eARC. All opinions are entirely my own.
A very touching and exhilarating read. Homelessness is a crisis and I was pleasantly surprised that this book touched on that. Bill really showed up for Evie and the kids from the Clubhouse. I really enjoyed the kids. Princess, Layla and Evie were my favorite and poor Pebble really had a traumatic experience but was able to identify the killer. Another great read by one of my favorite authors.
Thank you Netgalley and Thomas & Mercer/ Amazon Publishing for this eARC. All opinions are entirely my own.
April 28, 2026
Ms. Greene is an excellent storyteller. Her books are full of intrigue, suspense, and family. Never pick up one of her books since these well written reads demand completion in one sitting. Source: NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer.
Cassidy Clarke:
THE LOST ANGELS, #2 - Tragic. Interesting. Immersing. A good variety of characters. Well written but author doesn't understand The Bible is still a title to a book regardless of genre. Source: NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer. 4*
HOLLYWOOD HIT MEN, #1 - Plenty of interesting story lines in this book, along with good characters and a good pace. 4*
Special Agent Emily Ray:
MY NAME IS EMILY RAY, #1 - This book caught me by surprise with one thing. I was so immersed in the intriguing story lines that I finished the book in one sitting. I like the characters and their dialog, the outcome, and the fact there is another book. The best character is probably the husband, although there are many good characters. 5*
HAYLEY HOPE IS GONE, #2 - This intense story is better than the first book, which was awesome. Emily has a lot to handle, some devastating. 5*
THE GIRL FROM NOWHERE, #3 - This series gets better with each addition. Plenty of good characters, interesting story lines, disturbances, betrayals, and good deeds, all set to a good pace. 5*
Cassidy Clarke:
THE LOST ANGELS, #2 - Tragic. Interesting. Immersing. A good variety of characters. Well written but author doesn't understand The Bible is still a title to a book regardless of genre. Source: NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer. 4*
HOLLYWOOD HIT MEN, #1 - Plenty of interesting story lines in this book, along with good characters and a good pace. 4*
Special Agent Emily Ray:
MY NAME IS EMILY RAY, #1 - This book caught me by surprise with one thing. I was so immersed in the intriguing story lines that I finished the book in one sitting. I like the characters and their dialog, the outcome, and the fact there is another book. The best character is probably the husband, although there are many good characters. 5*
HAYLEY HOPE IS GONE, #2 - This intense story is better than the first book, which was awesome. Emily has a lot to handle, some devastating. 5*
THE GIRL FROM NOWHERE, #3 - This series gets better with each addition. Plenty of good characters, interesting story lines, disturbances, betrayals, and good deeds, all set to a good pace. 5*
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Lost Angels is an excellent follow up to, Hollywood Hit Men. Officer Cassidy Clarke, of the LAPD, is back from leave following the case in the previous book. She finds herself investigating a series of missing teens, seemingly disappearing from the gritty streets of LA. These homeless teens are being targeted, why and by whom?
Retired officer Bill Clarke, Cassidy's father, now a PI finds himself running a parallel investigation after one of Evie's friends goes missing. Evie being a young homeless teen he is trying to help.
This is a dark mystery, police procedural. Hollywood is not all glitz and glamor as portrayed here, there is a dark underbelly. We see this side of Hollywood from Layla, Evie's friend that went missing, as she describes what happened to her.
This is a fast read, and the use of varying characters' points of view as they investigate works to tighten the narrative. This can be read as a stand-alone, but I recommend reading the first book to get a good foundation on the characters. I look forward to the next book in this series.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher, Thomas & Mercer, for an ARC. The opinions in this review are my own.
Retired officer Bill Clarke, Cassidy's father, now a PI finds himself running a parallel investigation after one of Evie's friends goes missing. Evie being a young homeless teen he is trying to help.
This is a dark mystery, police procedural. Hollywood is not all glitz and glamor as portrayed here, there is a dark underbelly. We see this side of Hollywood from Layla, Evie's friend that went missing, as she describes what happened to her.
This is a fast read, and the use of varying characters' points of view as they investigate works to tighten the narrative. This can be read as a stand-alone, but I recommend reading the first book to get a good foundation on the characters. I look forward to the next book in this series.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher, Thomas & Mercer, for an ARC. The opinions in this review are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is the 2nd book in the series featuring Officer Cassidy Clarke, and a great jumping on point for anyone that missed the first book, “Hollywood Hit Men”. You will quickly want to go back and catch the first book. It was a great introduction to all of the characters.
This book reminded me of the late, great Robert B. Parker in one particular way. You have a subject matter that is horrible in nature and the author’s willingness to write about it and the impact that you see on the characters. I’m in no way comparing the author to Robert B. Parker or this work to his. That’s unfair to anyone as his will always stand taller than the rest.
That being said, Michele Dominguez Greene continues to write interesting mysteries and well-drawn out characters. There is growth in the characters and emotional depth to them. There is one particular situation with Officer Clark personally, that I am glad the author is not rushing. We continue to see it develop over the first two novels and it is still not resolved.
I have loved the first two books and can’t wait till the third installment.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for providing an ARC for an unbiased review.
This book reminded me of the late, great Robert B. Parker in one particular way. You have a subject matter that is horrible in nature and the author’s willingness to write about it and the impact that you see on the characters. I’m in no way comparing the author to Robert B. Parker or this work to his. That’s unfair to anyone as his will always stand taller than the rest.
That being said, Michele Dominguez Greene continues to write interesting mysteries and well-drawn out characters. There is growth in the characters and emotional depth to them. There is one particular situation with Officer Clark personally, that I am glad the author is not rushing. We continue to see it develop over the first two novels and it is still not resolved.
I have loved the first two books and can’t wait till the third installment.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for providing an ARC for an unbiased review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Officer Cassidy Clarke learns of 'throwaway' teens who have disappeared. The director confirms that one such leader of the group that frequents her help center hasn't been seen in weeks. Cassidy discovers a common thread, someone known as Little Leo, but no one seems to know his real identity. When people who could help identify him start disappearing, Cassidy must move fast to protect Evie, a teen with whom she has developed a relationship, and others, from being ensnared.
This is the second book in the Hollywood Hit Men series. It might have been helpful to read the initial title first, but this book stands on its own well enough regardless. The Lost Angels is pretty dark, including themes of homelessness, abuse, and exploitation of vulnerable teens, usually girls. This is not my preferred reading material, so in the future, I will likely stick to the Agent Emily Ray books by the same author. Nevertheless, the book is well written and suspenseful with no loose ends.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
This is the second book in the Hollywood Hit Men series. It might have been helpful to read the initial title first, but this book stands on its own well enough regardless. The Lost Angels is pretty dark, including themes of homelessness, abuse, and exploitation of vulnerable teens, usually girls. This is not my preferred reading material, so in the future, I will likely stick to the Agent Emily Ray books by the same author. Nevertheless, the book is well written and suspenseful with no loose ends.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
May 16, 2026
The second book in the series has Caasidy Clarke returning to work after her time off. Her father, Bill, a retired detective, has now gone to get treatment and has also gotten a PI license so he can start taking cases. His first job is to hire a homeless girl who is looking for her friend. Turns out his daughter and some other officers are not only looking for the same girl but for others, all homeless, runaways, or just left foster care. Either way, they are being killed, and now some of the deaths have made the news, so these cases need to be closed and the person or persons found. Meanwhile, the rogue officer from the last book that I thought was killed in Mexico has returned from across the border and is now looking for revenge. Excellent storyline, along with the characters, make for a fast read.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is the second book in the Cassidy Clarke series. This book does a great job of capturing the essence of each individual character and their different personalities. It concludes the storylines from the first book that left you wondering what the heck was going on!
The author does a wonderful job at conveying authentic police procedures and practices.
I wouldn’t say that you HAVE to read the first book in the series, but this book would definitely make more sense having read book 1.
I don’t know if there will be a third book but I for one would gladly welcome it! I love the characters and the storyline that has developed in each book. I’m so glad I’ve been given the opportunity to ARC read these books!
The author does a wonderful job at conveying authentic police procedures and practices.
I wouldn’t say that you HAVE to read the first book in the series, but this book would definitely make more sense having read book 1.
I don’t know if there will be a third book but I for one would gladly welcome it! I love the characters and the storyline that has developed in each book. I’m so glad I’ve been given the opportunity to ARC read these books!
February 17, 2026
3.75/5
Usually, I don't tend to love the more police/detective-based mystery/thriller books, but I really enjoyed this.
This seemed to focus more on the characters and their situations than about the police, if that makes sense. These felt like more real people with real people problems that are very difficult to deal with.
I'm definitely interested to look into more books by this author.
This was entertaining and engaging and something was always going on, making me always be thinking about how everything was all connected. And I love that in a mystery/thriller.
I also sped through this in one sitting.
Thanks to NetGalley for the e-ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
Usually, I don't tend to love the more police/detective-based mystery/thriller books, but I really enjoyed this.
This seemed to focus more on the characters and their situations than about the police, if that makes sense. These felt like more real people with real people problems that are very difficult to deal with.
I'm definitely interested to look into more books by this author.
This was entertaining and engaging and something was always going on, making me always be thinking about how everything was all connected. And I love that in a mystery/thriller.
I also sped through this in one sitting.
Thanks to NetGalley for the e-ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
April 29, 2026
Detective Cassidy Clarke tries to find missing teens who frequent a “kids club” shelter catering to runaways and unhoused teenagers in Los Angeles. The trail leads to a socially awkward college student whose parents are funding his somewhat lavish lifestyle. Cassidy’s father, a retired cop, gets involved as they focus on finding potential victims before it’s too late.
This was a good example of a case starting out as one thing (a string of robberies), and becoming something worse. Cassidy’s inquiring mind and instincts makes her a good detective. A lot of care and concern is shown for these teens on the street, with some potentially unrealistic yet hopeful next steps.
There are a lot of people in this one, which was occasionally confusing in the audiobook (no flipping back pages), despite the good narration.
My thanks to the author, publisher, @BrillianceAudio, and #NetGalley for access to the audiobook #TheLostAngels for review purposes. It is currently available.
This was a good example of a case starting out as one thing (a string of robberies), and becoming something worse. Cassidy’s inquiring mind and instincts makes her a good detective. A lot of care and concern is shown for these teens on the street, with some potentially unrealistic yet hopeful next steps.
There are a lot of people in this one, which was occasionally confusing in the audiobook (no flipping back pages), despite the good narration.
My thanks to the author, publisher, @BrillianceAudio, and #NetGalley for access to the audiobook #TheLostAngels for review purposes. It is currently available.
May 1, 2026
Oh, I just had to share my latest read! I recently dove back into the world of Michele Dominguez Greene and what a treat it was. I picked up "The Lost Angels," which is the second installment in her awesome Cassidy Clarke of the LAPD.
Being a huge fan of police procedurals, I found myself completely engrossed!
It was a fascinating read because, while it still had that investigative edge, it almost leaned into a cozy mystery vibe rather than the intense thrillers I've come to expect from her Emily Ray collection. I have to admit, I do have a soft spot for the Emily Ray books, but then again, these two series are so distinct, it almost feels unfair to put them head to head. Either way, this second venture into Cassidy’s world definitely earned a strong four stars from me!
Being a huge fan of police procedurals, I found myself completely engrossed!
It was a fascinating read because, while it still had that investigative edge, it almost leaned into a cozy mystery vibe rather than the intense thrillers I've come to expect from her Emily Ray collection. I have to admit, I do have a soft spot for the Emily Ray books, but then again, these two series are so distinct, it almost feels unfair to put them head to head. Either way, this second venture into Cassidy’s world definitely earned a strong four stars from me!
May 17, 2026
In the Lost Angels, LA is not the city of glamour but it is a city of despair, abuse, addiction, and also a place where homeless children do not really receive adequate help from the authorities. Cassidy is back at work as well as her father, now retired, has received his PI certification. His first case is to find a homeless girl who has gone missing. Cassidy and her father are looking for different people, however, their cases will intersect, and a very ugly ring of abuse will come out. At the same time, Cassidy's nemesis is back from Mexico and he's looking for revenge. Will he succeed? The Lost Angels is fast-paced, with lots of action, mystery and it keeps the reader's interest from the beginning till the end.
I thank the author, her publisher, and NetGalley for this ARC.
I thank the author, her publisher, and NetGalley for this ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I really enjoy Michele Dominguez Greene's police procedural books. She writes such vivid characters with fast paced plots. Her books also address interesting social issues intermingled with police department politics. This is the second book in the Cassidy Clarke series and it can easily be read as a stand alone but to get the full benefit of the developing relationships between the characters, I recommend starting with "Hollywood Hit Men" and reading them in order. Also highly recommended is the Special Agent Emily Ray series by Michele Dominguez Green. Highly recommended
Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for an advanced reader copy.
Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for an advanced reader copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
What a ride! The narrator did an amazing job with her storytelling ability and how she brought life and uniqueness to each character. She was able to slip into teenage runaway, then cop, then essentric old lady, all the way to different villains flawlessly that left little guessing to which character she was portraying.
The story itself was entertaining, alarming, tragic, and everything you want from a thriller. My heart was beating so fast worried for these lost angels. I wanted to scream and throw my book multiple times begging for these angels to be saved!
This is a thriller that needs to be added to everyone's TBR!
The story itself was entertaining, alarming, tragic, and everything you want from a thriller. My heart was beating so fast worried for these lost angels. I wanted to scream and throw my book multiple times begging for these angels to be saved!
This is a thriller that needs to be added to everyone's TBR!
May 2, 2026
Thanks NetGalley for the audiobook.
Cassidy Clarke returns to the LAPD following her first closed case. Homeless teens in LA are disappearing, and break ins keep happening. And there seems to be a connection. A European grad student who uses his charm lures in these teens, and he’s evaded discovery. Until leads start appearing and the LAPD follows them. Now, those connected to him end up dead, and Cassidy and the LAPD must protect his next potential targets, all while trying to find his identity and put a stop to him.
4/5 stars!! This was a great book. Fast-paced and very interesting from the get go.
Cassidy Clarke returns to the LAPD following her first closed case. Homeless teens in LA are disappearing, and break ins keep happening. And there seems to be a connection. A European grad student who uses his charm lures in these teens, and he’s evaded discovery. Until leads start appearing and the LAPD follows them. Now, those connected to him end up dead, and Cassidy and the LAPD must protect his next potential targets, all while trying to find his identity and put a stop to him.
4/5 stars!! This was a great book. Fast-paced and very interesting from the get go.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Many thanks to NetGalley and Brilliance Publishing for the free audiobook in exchange for my honest review. Nicol Zanzarella does a great job narrating this story.
Homeless teens are being disappearing as they are recruited by a Manson-esque grad student to do his bidding "for the family".
I really liked the characters and found them to be relatable. I do like police procedural stories and this one had a compelling lead character trying to fight the good fight against systemic issues. Overall, a well written mystery!
Homeless teens are being disappearing as they are recruited by a Manson-esque grad student to do his bidding "for the family".
I really liked the characters and found them to be relatable. I do like police procedural stories and this one had a compelling lead character trying to fight the good fight against systemic issues. Overall, a well written mystery!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Cassidy Clarke, LAPD detective, is back. This time around she is investigating homeless teens that have gone missing. Her dad recently received his “Private Investigator” papers is hired by a homeless teenager whose best friend has gone missing. The two work in tandem and at times at odds, to protect the extremely vulnerable children. This was a very enjoyable and fast paced store. I great addition to the Clarke series.
Nicol Zanzarella was great.
Nicol Zanzarella was great.
April 29, 2026
This is the 2nd in the series. I read the first as well. I read via the audiobook version. The narrator is great.
I love Cassidy and Bill. This storyline is pretty good. It definitely shows a focus on teen homelessness and trafficking. The story is very predictable but it’s still very good.
Thank you NetGalley for the copy
I love Cassidy and Bill. This storyline is pretty good. It definitely shows a focus on teen homelessness and trafficking. The story is very predictable but it’s still very good.
Thank you NetGalley for the copy
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
What a wild ride! This book was fast paced and left me with little desire to stop and take a breather. There were a few parts I was a little confused about, however I think that’s because I would have benefitted from reading book #1 in this Cassidy Clarke series. However, it was worth the listen and I genuinely wanted to see how the author was going to tie up all the loose ends.
The narrator was listed as Nicol Zanzarella. Awesome narration. Tons of characters, lots of emotions and characters all over the place. Great narrator.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC. I enjoyed this book so much and can’t wait to see where this series goes.
The narrator was listed as Nicol Zanzarella. Awesome narration. Tons of characters, lots of emotions and characters all over the place. Great narrator.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC. I enjoyed this book so much and can’t wait to see where this series goes.
May 17, 2026
This was a very gripping story. I like that we knew who the bad guy was from the jump and we get his perspective because it turns into a cat and mouse game. There was really good character development and I hope this series continues.
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