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Forbidden: Book Two in the Jara Quinn Series
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
July 29, 2026
I always enjoy crime novels that make me think instead of simply racing from one action scene to another, and Forbidden did exactly that for me. Every new lead made me question who was hiding the truth, and I found myself trying to connect the pieces alongside Jara Quinn and her team. It felt like a puzzle that became more interesting with each chapter.
The characters are not perfect, and that is one of the reasons I connected with them. They make difficult choices, face personal risks, and continue moving forward even when the investigation becomes more dangerous. I found myself caring about their journey just as much as solving the case, which made the emotional moments feel genuine.
By the time I reached the final chapters, I was completely invested in seeing how everything would come together. The mix of suspense, family secrets, and unexpected revelations made this an engaging read from beginning to end. If you enjoy detective stories with heart as well as mystery, this is one I would happily recommend.
The characters are not perfect, and that is one of the reasons I connected with them. They make difficult choices, face personal risks, and continue moving forward even when the investigation becomes more dangerous. I found myself caring about their journey just as much as solving the case, which made the emotional moments feel genuine.
By the time I reached the final chapters, I was completely invested in seeing how everything would come together. The mix of suspense, family secrets, and unexpected revelations made this an engaging read from beginning to end. If you enjoy detective stories with heart as well as mystery, this is one I would happily recommend.
August 10, 2026
What I enjoyed most about Forbidden is that beneath its murder mystery lies a story about people trying to find their footing after difficult experiences. Lee Sato gives Jara Quinn more than a professional role; she is someone recovering from trauma, reconsidering her priorities, and learning to accept support from the people around her.
The investigative storyline is equally engaging because it begins with an apparent contradiction. Andrew Branson was convicted of five murders and remains under confinement, yet crimes bearing striking similarities begin occurring again. Jara, Tess, and their colleagues must examine old evidence with fresh eyes, paying attention to details that may previously have seemed insignificant. The recurring handkerchiefs, distinctive clothing, unusual crime scenes, and links to the Branson family give the investigation a fascinating puzzle-like quality.
Forbidden feels like a character-driven crime thriller rather than a story built only around violence and suspense. The investigation gives the novel its momentum, but the relationships, doubts, personal recovery, and evolving trust between the characters give it heart. Sato succeeds in making the reader care not only about who is behind the murders, but also about what the investigation means for the people trying to solve them.
The investigative storyline is equally engaging because it begins with an apparent contradiction. Andrew Branson was convicted of five murders and remains under confinement, yet crimes bearing striking similarities begin occurring again. Jara, Tess, and their colleagues must examine old evidence with fresh eyes, paying attention to details that may previously have seemed insignificant. The recurring handkerchiefs, distinctive clothing, unusual crime scenes, and links to the Branson family give the investigation a fascinating puzzle-like quality.
Forbidden feels like a character-driven crime thriller rather than a story built only around violence and suspense. The investigation gives the novel its momentum, but the relationships, doubts, personal recovery, and evolving trust between the characters give it heart. Sato succeeds in making the reader care not only about who is behind the murders, but also about what the investigation means for the people trying to solve them.
August 10, 2026
The story plunges readers into a disturbing investigation involving Detective Tess Goodwin and FBI Special Agent Jara Quinn, as a new series of murders begins to mirror the crimes attributed to Andrew Branson. The eerie crime scenes, unexplained similarities, and carefully concealed clues create an atmosphere of constant uncertainty, making it difficult to know which pieces of the investigation can truly be trusted.
The novel is effective in showing the emotional burden carried by its investigators. Jara returns to the FBI after suffering a serious injury, bringing with her doubts about whether she is ready to face another demanding case. Tess, meanwhile, is struggling with the possibility that her earlier investigation may not have uncovered the complete truth. Their contrasting perspectives make the investigation more interesting, while the developing professional relationship between them adds another layer to the story.
With its combination of police investigation, psychological tension, family secrets, and unexpected connections, Forbidden offers a compelling continuation of the Jara Quinn series. Sato keeps the central mystery alive by revealing information gradually and allowing seemingly minor details to become significant clues.
The novel is effective in showing the emotional burden carried by its investigators. Jara returns to the FBI after suffering a serious injury, bringing with her doubts about whether she is ready to face another demanding case. Tess, meanwhile, is struggling with the possibility that her earlier investigation may not have uncovered the complete truth. Their contrasting perspectives make the investigation more interesting, while the developing professional relationship between them adds another layer to the story.
With its combination of police investigation, psychological tension, family secrets, and unexpected connections, Forbidden offers a compelling continuation of the Jara Quinn series. Sato keeps the central mystery alive by revealing information gradually and allowing seemingly minor details to become significant clues.
July 2, 2026
Forbidden by Lee Sato, the second book in the Jara Quinn series, is a crime thriller filled with mystery, suspense, and psychological intrigue. The story follows FBI Special Agent Jara Quinn as she returns to duty after a difficult case and becomes involved in a disturbing murder investigation connected to the notorious Andrew Branson case. The novel captures attention with the question of how new murders can occur when the original suspect is already imprisoned.
Jara Quinn is portrayed as a determined and skilled agent, while her personal relationships add emotional depth to the fast-paced storyline. The partnership between the FBI and Connecticut State Police creates an engaging investigative dynamic as they search for answers behind the mysterious pattern of murders, hidden evidence, and unanswered questions surrounding the Branson family.
Forbidden is an engaging thriller that will appeal to readers who enjoy serial killer mysteries, forensic investigations, and suspenseful storytelling. The storyline keeps readers curious about the truth until the end. The book’s strong characters and unpredictable twists make it an enjoyable addition to the series.
Jara Quinn is portrayed as a determined and skilled agent, while her personal relationships add emotional depth to the fast-paced storyline. The partnership between the FBI and Connecticut State Police creates an engaging investigative dynamic as they search for answers behind the mysterious pattern of murders, hidden evidence, and unanswered questions surrounding the Branson family.
Forbidden is an engaging thriller that will appeal to readers who enjoy serial killer mysteries, forensic investigations, and suspenseful storytelling. The storyline keeps readers curious about the truth until the end. The book’s strong characters and unpredictable twists make it an enjoyable addition to the series.
August 4, 2026
I have read both books by Lee Sato in the Jara Quinn Series (the first was Hornet's Nest) and really like this author. The protagonist and her love are at the center of the crime thriller, and the story feels real. I loved Forbidden (book two) because there are twists and turns you will not see coming and the suspense holds all the way through. The other law enforcement professionals and the family of Jara's girlfriend are not just ancillary characters; they carry over from the first book. You start to really know them. Each book does stand alone, but I hope there are many more.
June 27, 2026
Forbidden kept me guessing all the way through.
I liked that the mystery unfolded little by little instead of giving everything away too soon. Jara Quinn and her team felt like real people, and the personal side of the investigation made the story even more interesting.
A solid crime thriller with plenty of secrets, suspense, and a few surprises along the way... Go for it mystery lovers :D
I liked that the mystery unfolded little by little instead of giving everything away too soon. Jara Quinn and her team felt like real people, and the personal side of the investigation made the story even more interesting.
A solid crime thriller with plenty of secrets, suspense, and a few surprises along the way... Go for it mystery lovers :D
June 17, 2026
Lee Sato delivers a crime thriller that kept me fully engaged from beginning to end. Forbidden brings together a group of investigators working across different locations to solve a series of disturbing murders that seem connected to a case everyone thought was already finished. As the story moved forward, I found myself becoming more invested in both the mystery and the people trying to solve it.
The investigation unfolds through surprising discoveries, family secrets, and growing danger. I appreciated how each character contributed something important to the case, especially Jara Quinn, whose determination and courage shine throughout the book. The tension builds naturally, and every new clue adds another layer to the mystery without making the story difficult to follow.
For me, this was the kind of thriller that made it easy to keep turning pages. The mix of suspense, emotional moments, and unexpected developments kept the story interesting all the way through. Readers who enjoy crime novels with strong investigators, dark secrets, and plenty of twists will find Forbidden a satisfying and engaging read.
The investigation unfolds through surprising discoveries, family secrets, and growing danger. I appreciated how each character contributed something important to the case, especially Jara Quinn, whose determination and courage shine throughout the book. The tension builds naturally, and every new clue adds another layer to the mystery without making the story difficult to follow.
For me, this was the kind of thriller that made it easy to keep turning pages. The mix of suspense, emotional moments, and unexpected developments kept the story interesting all the way through. Readers who enjoy crime novels with strong investigators, dark secrets, and plenty of twists will find Forbidden a satisfying and engaging read.
June 2, 2026
"Forbidden: Jara Quinn Series Book 2" is a thrilling, fast-paced ride from start to finish. Lee Sato brings together a fantastic cast of characters and an engaging storyline that keeps you hooked. Gripping, intense, and relentless, it’s a truly satisfying read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 27, 2026
amazing
I really enjoyed this twist and turn story. The characters are equally amazing of their own vulnerability and their strengths. I as well look forward to more of these characters. Great job
I really enjoyed this twist and turn story. The characters are equally amazing of their own vulnerability and their strengths. I as well look forward to more of these characters. Great job
July 10, 2026
The central premise, a string of murders that perfectly mirrors the work of a convicted killer already locked away, creates an irresistible puzzle that keeps readers questioning every assumption. The suspense builds naturally, making each new revelation feel earned.
Jara Quinn returns to duty carrying both physical and emotional scars, and her interactions with Katerina provide moments of warmth that contrast beautifully with the darkness of the case. Detective Tess Goodwin is equally compelling, driven by determination yet haunted by the possibility that she may have missed something years earlier. Their collaboration gives the story depth, showing that solving crimes requires not only intelligence but also trust, resilience, and the willingness to challenge past conclusions.
Lee Sato crafts a thriller that rewards attentive readers with carefully placed clues, believable investigative work, and a cast of characters who continue to evolve. The pacing remains steady throughout, blending forensic detail with emotional stakes to create a story that feels immersive from beginning to end.
Jara Quinn returns to duty carrying both physical and emotional scars, and her interactions with Katerina provide moments of warmth that contrast beautifully with the darkness of the case. Detective Tess Goodwin is equally compelling, driven by determination yet haunted by the possibility that she may have missed something years earlier. Their collaboration gives the story depth, showing that solving crimes requires not only intelligence but also trust, resilience, and the willingness to challenge past conclusions.
Lee Sato crafts a thriller that rewards attentive readers with carefully placed clues, believable investigative work, and a cast of characters who continue to evolve. The pacing remains steady throughout, blending forensic detail with emotional stakes to create a story that feels immersive from beginning to end.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Intense thriller!
Agent Jara Quinn finds her first case back on the job is one they thought was closed, but new victims with too familiar circumstances has her and her partner Travis joining with detectives from two different states. Upon discovering evidence that leads them to believe the killer has been doing this a lot longer than they thought, they are drawn further into the game the killer seems to be playing with them and it becomes a race against time to stop them.
This had a very clever theme threaded throughout the story that was at the forefront of Jara investigating this case closely and with a fine tooth comb. She was determined to work out how this very significant clue fitted with the other pieces she was discovering. I loved joining her on this one, as it showed another side to how she works and just how far she’ll go to uncover the truth. This story is part of a series and you would benefit from reading the first part to get to really know Agent Quinn well, but it also works great as a story on its own. Lee gives enough detail to understand who Jara is and how she is connected to the other characters, while keeping the focus on the thrilling case they are trying to solve.
It is always difficult to share too much about thrillers and crime novels without giving away too much of the plot. Things ended up getting quite personal for Jara this time, and it led to her taking more risks than I was used to her taking. However she didn’t lose focus and when she was advised to, she took care and a step back, but not for long. She really ended up right at the heart of this case in trying to crack it and I had every faith in her doing so.
A great read, really exciting, and I am now excited for what awaits Jara in the future!
Agent Jara Quinn finds her first case back on the job is one they thought was closed, but new victims with too familiar circumstances has her and her partner Travis joining with detectives from two different states. Upon discovering evidence that leads them to believe the killer has been doing this a lot longer than they thought, they are drawn further into the game the killer seems to be playing with them and it becomes a race against time to stop them.
This had a very clever theme threaded throughout the story that was at the forefront of Jara investigating this case closely and with a fine tooth comb. She was determined to work out how this very significant clue fitted with the other pieces she was discovering. I loved joining her on this one, as it showed another side to how she works and just how far she’ll go to uncover the truth. This story is part of a series and you would benefit from reading the first part to get to really know Agent Quinn well, but it also works great as a story on its own. Lee gives enough detail to understand who Jara is and how she is connected to the other characters, while keeping the focus on the thrilling case they are trying to solve.
It is always difficult to share too much about thrillers and crime novels without giving away too much of the plot. Things ended up getting quite personal for Jara this time, and it led to her taking more risks than I was used to her taking. However she didn’t lose focus and when she was advised to, she took care and a step back, but not for long. She really ended up right at the heart of this case in trying to crack it and I had every faith in her doing so.
A great read, really exciting, and I am now excited for what awaits Jara in the future!
Review of advance copy
I absolutely loved Forbidden by Lee Sato—an outstanding read. The writing is smooth and engaging, almost like having a pleasant conversation with a friend. The characters are wonderfully developed, and the plot is intricate, filled with constant twists and turns that keep you hooked. It’s an intense and thoroughly satisfying story.
This is part of a series featuring FBI agent Jara Quinn. While you don’t need to read the first book to enjoy Forbidden, doing so will give you deeper insight into Jara’s family and relationships. I hadn’t read the first installment beforehand, but I immediately started it as soon as I finished this one.
In this book, Jara and her partner Travis join a team of detectives investigating a series of murders spanning multiple states. As they gather evidence, they uncover that the killings have been happening far longer than anyone suspected—and that there are more victims than originally believed.
This is an absolutely fantastic book. I can’t wait for the third installment. Lee Sato is definitely an author to watch.
Thank you to BookSirens and the author for an advance copy of this book. I am voluntarily leaving this honest, personal, and unbiased review.
This is part of a series featuring FBI agent Jara Quinn. While you don’t need to read the first book to enjoy Forbidden, doing so will give you deeper insight into Jara’s family and relationships. I hadn’t read the first installment beforehand, but I immediately started it as soon as I finished this one.
In this book, Jara and her partner Travis join a team of detectives investigating a series of murders spanning multiple states. As they gather evidence, they uncover that the killings have been happening far longer than anyone suspected—and that there are more victims than originally believed.
This is an absolutely fantastic book. I can’t wait for the third installment. Lee Sato is definitely an author to watch.
Thank you to BookSirens and the author for an advance copy of this book. I am voluntarily leaving this honest, personal, and unbiased review.
July 11, 2026
Hornet’s Nest by Lee Sato is a promising start to the Jara Quinn series; it’s tense, unpredictable, and brimming with emotional depth. The gripping twists keep you hooked, but it’s the layered characters and flashes of vulnerability that truly make the novel linger in your mind. Sato has built a world where trust is fragile, danger hides in plain sight, and shifting loyalties keep you second-guessing right up to the final page. The result is a highly entertaining and emotionally resonant read.
At the center of the story are FBI agent Jara Quinn and attorney Katerina Lansing, whose connection is as charged as it is complicated. When Katerina’s grandmother dies under suspicious circumstances, the two join forces to investigate possible corruption. For Katerina, that means facing her grief while unearthing family secrets, the kind that could destroy her father’s presidential campaign. The deeper they dig, the more dangerous the search becomes, forcing both women to lower the shields they’ve kept up for years and take the risk of trusting again.
Sato doesn’t take shortcuts with the romance in this book. Jara and Katerina’s love affair isn’t a side note; it’s the emotional anchor of the novel. It develops slowly, rooted not only in shared history but in the deliberate choice to build something new together. Sato portrays this with tenderness, showing Jara gradually setting aside her emotional armor while Katerina learns that true strength sometimes lies in letting go. What begins as something tentative and uncertain evolves into a resilience that becomes central to both their survival and their love.
The intrigue Sato weaves into the narrative strengthens her storytelling, making Hornet’s Nest especially captivating. She uses the political backdrop of Katerina’s family to skillfully raise the stakes, exploring how power can twist loyalty, blur moral lines, and make justice a shifting concept. When Katerina’s father announces his presidential run, she is drawn into the high-wire act of balancing public image with explosive family truths. The result is a smart, tightly paced mystery that delivers both adrenaline and depth. It’s the kind of story that one races through to find out what happens next.
Final Remarks…
Hornet’s Nest is a tightly woven mystery-thriller that pulls you in from the very first page. Sato blends sharp intelligence with genuine warmth, creating a story that feels both thrilling and deeply human. The ever-present sense of danger hums in the background, yet the romance develops with an authenticity and ease that make it feel real, never forced. More than a subplot, the love story becomes a lens through which the novel explores justice, loss, resilience, and the risks that come with trust. In the end, Hornet’s Nest isn’t just a thrilling story, it’s a strong opening to a promising series.
Strengths…
Strong, likable leading ladies
Layered emotional arc
Compelling, high stakes drama
Fast-paced, balanced storytelling
Well-plotted plot lines
At the center of the story are FBI agent Jara Quinn and attorney Katerina Lansing, whose connection is as charged as it is complicated. When Katerina’s grandmother dies under suspicious circumstances, the two join forces to investigate possible corruption. For Katerina, that means facing her grief while unearthing family secrets, the kind that could destroy her father’s presidential campaign. The deeper they dig, the more dangerous the search becomes, forcing both women to lower the shields they’ve kept up for years and take the risk of trusting again.
Sato doesn’t take shortcuts with the romance in this book. Jara and Katerina’s love affair isn’t a side note; it’s the emotional anchor of the novel. It develops slowly, rooted not only in shared history but in the deliberate choice to build something new together. Sato portrays this with tenderness, showing Jara gradually setting aside her emotional armor while Katerina learns that true strength sometimes lies in letting go. What begins as something tentative and uncertain evolves into a resilience that becomes central to both their survival and their love.
The intrigue Sato weaves into the narrative strengthens her storytelling, making Hornet’s Nest especially captivating. She uses the political backdrop of Katerina’s family to skillfully raise the stakes, exploring how power can twist loyalty, blur moral lines, and make justice a shifting concept. When Katerina’s father announces his presidential run, she is drawn into the high-wire act of balancing public image with explosive family truths. The result is a smart, tightly paced mystery that delivers both adrenaline and depth. It’s the kind of story that one races through to find out what happens next.
Final Remarks…
Hornet’s Nest is a tightly woven mystery-thriller that pulls you in from the very first page. Sato blends sharp intelligence with genuine warmth, creating a story that feels both thrilling and deeply human. The ever-present sense of danger hums in the background, yet the romance develops with an authenticity and ease that make it feel real, never forced. More than a subplot, the love story becomes a lens through which the novel explores justice, loss, resilience, and the risks that come with trust. In the end, Hornet’s Nest isn’t just a thrilling story, it’s a strong opening to a promising series.
Strengths…
Strong, likable leading ladies
Layered emotional arc
Compelling, high stakes drama
Fast-paced, balanced storytelling
Well-plotted plot lines
Review of advance copy received from Author
A dynamic crime novel with plenty of characters and twists that kept me on my toes until the end. Serial killers and their deeds can be hard to swallow, so the book is for people with a resilient psyche. The plot is intriguing and offers a look into the confused mind of the killer through his deeds, which they would call works of art no matter how ugly and heartless they are. The book moved me undoubtedly. The author has tried to weave in real-life practices of investigation, DNA examination and crime scene examination techniques, and has also added a little sci-fi nuances. "Forbidden", Book 2 of the Jara Quinn Series: is definitely worth reaching for. Lee Sato writes with a realism that creates a feeling of a movie and you will not regret if you choose her to show you a look into dark and confused minds and the justice system that fights with all its might to provide justice.
Review of advance copy
This is the second in the series and although I had not read the first, it made no difference. We are immediately brought straight into things with a murder and Jara ends up part of a team with detectives from Connecticut when it seems the killer has been operating for longer than anyone realised and in a much wider area.
I liked the link to someone already locked away and events from a family's past a long time ago in France. Also there is some connection to an old perfume. This was quite intriguing as was the motivation behind the crimes. I found the characters easy to like and the story flowed well and was easy and enjoyable to read. I will definitely check out the next in the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I liked the link to someone already locked away and events from a family's past a long time ago in France. Also there is some connection to an old perfume. This was quite intriguing as was the motivation behind the crimes. I found the characters easy to like and the story flowed well and was easy and enjoyable to read. I will definitely check out the next in the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 14, 2026
Forbidden is a gripping crime thriller packed with suspense, mystery, and unexpected twists. Lee Sato keeps the tension high from beginning to end, and Jara Quinn is a strong, compelling lead. The investigation is well-paced, the characters are engaging, and the ending is satisfying. A fantastic read for anyone who enjoys crime thrillers and psychological suspense.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC review
Rating: 5.0
I am loving this series! The writing and story of Jara Quinn is amazing! This felt like a show! I loved it!!
Rating: 5.0
I am loving this series! The writing and story of Jara Quinn is amazing! This felt like a show! I loved it!!
Review of advance copy
Book #2 Forbidden didn't disappoint! I couldn't put it down once I started reading. The writing pulls you in and the characters feel like friends. Lee Sato has become one of my favorite authors.
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