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A Carol Childs Mystery #2
Beyond A Doubt
When Carol Childs is called to the scene of a body dump she has no idea she’s about to uncover a connection to a string of missing girls. Young, attractive women drawn to the glitz and glamor of Hollywood via an internet promise of stardom and romance have been disappearing. A judge’s daughter leaves behind a clue and a trip down Hollywood Boulevard’s Walk of Fame reveals a connection to a high powered real estate mogul and to a cartel targeting girls for human trafficking.
Old Hollywood has its secrets, its impersonators and backdoor entrances to old speakeasies and clubs where only those with the proper credentials can go. And when Carol Childs gets too close, she finds herself politically at odds with powers that threaten to undue her career and like the very girls she’s seeking, disappear.
Old Hollywood has its secrets, its impersonators and backdoor entrances to old speakeasies and clubs where only those with the proper credentials can go. And when Carol Childs gets too close, she finds herself politically at odds with powers that threaten to undue her career and like the very girls she’s seeking, disappear.
244 pages, Paperback
First published July 14, 2015
13 people are currently reading
889 people want to read
About the author
Nancy Cole Silverman
34 books363 followersNancy Cole Silverman spent nearly twenty-five in Los Angeles Talk Radio, beginning her career on the talent side as one of the first female voices on the air. Later, on the business side, she rose through the ranks and became one of two female general managers in the nation’s second-largest radio market. After a successful career in the radio industry, Silverman retired to write fiction. Her crime-focused novels and short stories have attracted readers throughout America. Her Carol Childs Mysteries series features a single mom whose day job as a reporter at a busy Los Angeles radio station often leads to long nights as a crime-solver. Her Misty Dawn Series is centered on an aging Hollywood Psychic to the Stars, who supplements her day-to-day activities as a consultant to the LAPD and the FBI. Silverman’s newest series, The Kat Lawson Mysteries, is centered on a disgraced investigative reporter who finds herself working for an international travel publication as an undercover operative for the FBI. Silverman lives in Los Angeles with her husband and thoroughly pampered standard poodle.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
June 18, 2015
Silverman shows the reader more of the darkside of Hollywood with this second mystery. Carol Childs always gets her story, and this one is a doozy.
Reviewed for Affaire de Coeur Magazine in the July 2015 issue. http://affairedecoeur.com.
Reviewed for Affaire de Coeur Magazine in the July 2015 issue. http://affairedecoeur.com.
June 7, 2016
Dollycas’s Thoughts
I just wanted a broadcast of one of my favorite soap opera stars, Deidre Hall from Days of Our Lives get her star on the Wall of Fame so those images were brought back with this story.
Radio reporter Carol Childs finds herself close to Hollywood and Vine several times as she investigates the murder of a judge’s daughter and a string of missing girls. For the most part she is trying to get the scoop for her radio station but since the police seems to be dragging their feet on their investigation she figures helping them can’t hurt. Carol’s FBI Agent boyfriend, Eric, is off for a little R&R on his boat so he is not around to keep her out of trouble.
The author takes on a couple of hot topic issues in this book and she does it really well. I hesitate to say too much here because I don’t want to spoil the story for you.
I will say Nancy Cole Silverman knows how to build suspense. She packs so much in these 244 pages. By the time I reached the end I was almost out of breath.
Centered around her life at a radio station, her boss is much more supportive than in the last book, even when the powers that be think murder and missing girls isn’t what they want playing on their station. We meet everyone from celebrity impersonators to a bunch of Red Hat Ladies. These characters are real and believable and some bring a little humor to a very stressful storyline and some become suspects.
I really enjoyed the first book in this series, Shadow of Doubt, I am upset with myself for taking so long to read this one.
A fabulous read, my only pause, was the ending, it was just a little too easy, but very entertaining and not enough to knock down my rating.
I just wanted a broadcast of one of my favorite soap opera stars, Deidre Hall from Days of Our Lives get her star on the Wall of Fame so those images were brought back with this story.
Radio reporter Carol Childs finds herself close to Hollywood and Vine several times as she investigates the murder of a judge’s daughter and a string of missing girls. For the most part she is trying to get the scoop for her radio station but since the police seems to be dragging their feet on their investigation she figures helping them can’t hurt. Carol’s FBI Agent boyfriend, Eric, is off for a little R&R on his boat so he is not around to keep her out of trouble.
The author takes on a couple of hot topic issues in this book and she does it really well. I hesitate to say too much here because I don’t want to spoil the story for you.
I will say Nancy Cole Silverman knows how to build suspense. She packs so much in these 244 pages. By the time I reached the end I was almost out of breath.
Centered around her life at a radio station, her boss is much more supportive than in the last book, even when the powers that be think murder and missing girls isn’t what they want playing on their station. We meet everyone from celebrity impersonators to a bunch of Red Hat Ladies. These characters are real and believable and some bring a little humor to a very stressful storyline and some become suspects.
I really enjoyed the first book in this series, Shadow of Doubt, I am upset with myself for taking so long to read this one.
A fabulous read, my only pause, was the ending, it was just a little too easy, but very entertaining and not enough to knock down my rating.
August 27, 2015
After the body of a young woman is found dumped in the Hollywood Hills and local young women (including an old coworker) turn up missing, radio reporter Carol Childs follows the clues and comes up with what could be the biggest human trafficking case in years. But when Carols main suspect turns out to be one of Hollywoods biggest and most beloved moguls she faces bigger obstacles then just finding the women alive.
Really enjoyed the second instalment in Nancy Cole Silverman's Carol Childs mystery series. More intense and action packed then the first I found myself unable to put it down, even though there was never any real doubt as to who the killer was. Taking from her many years in talk radio, Nancy creates a rich look at what happens behind the scenes in radio work that always adds to her storylines. If this is anything to go by Nancy is getting stronger with each book and I look forward to the next instalment!
*Thank you netgalley and Henery Press for this advance copy.*
Really enjoyed the second instalment in Nancy Cole Silverman's Carol Childs mystery series. More intense and action packed then the first I found myself unable to put it down, even though there was never any real doubt as to who the killer was. Taking from her many years in talk radio, Nancy creates a rich look at what happens behind the scenes in radio work that always adds to her storylines. If this is anything to go by Nancy is getting stronger with each book and I look forward to the next instalment!
*Thank you netgalley and Henery Press for this advance copy.*
September 5, 2017
Reporter Carol Childs is on the scene when the police pull up the body of a young woman from a Los Angeles canyon. The victim is Monica Channing, who went missing two weeks ago. While the rest of the media begin to focus on the murder, Carol sees a pattern with other missing young women. What might she have stumbled on?
This book is a fast paced read from the very beginning. It’s definitely not the light reads I often go for, but the story never gets as dark as it could either. Watching Carol try to prove what she thinks is going on is fun, and the climax was very satisfying. Carol leads a strong cast of characters, and I’m looking forward to her next adventure.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
This book is a fast paced read from the very beginning. It’s definitely not the light reads I often go for, but the story never gets as dark as it could either. Watching Carol try to prove what she thinks is going on is fun, and the climax was very satisfying. Carol leads a strong cast of characters, and I’m looking forward to her next adventure.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
January 5, 2018
Silverman's first book in this series Shadow of a Doubt offered completed enjoyment. She doesn't disappoint with her newest, Beyond a Doubt. In fact, this new novel is even better! Great protagonist, fast-paced, page-turner mystery, Beyond a Doubt will leave you, as it did with me, wanting book three.
August 3, 2015
It seems that lately the mystery books I have read are boring, slow, and completely lacking in interest. So I will admit to not being too excited when I picked up this book and began reading. Don't get me wrong--I try to always go into reading with an open mind, but it is difficult when the books do not capture my attention.
I am incredibly ecstatic to report that this is the best mystery book I have read thus far this year. This book is well-written, has engaging characters, and deals with current topics. I have never read anything by this author, but after devouring this book, I am going to make it a point to look out for her books in the future.
Since this is a cozy mystery, there was truly nothing inappropriate. There were a few minimal instances of profanity (that I almost missed and did not find offensive), and there was no graphic violence. On the other hand, there was jaw-dropping suspense and action that kept me on the edge of my seat (especially towards the end of the book).
I also want to thank the author for dealing with the real issue of sex trafficking in the U.S. as so many people still do not recognize that this is a problem in this country. Additionally, there is another issue that crops up in the book that could have been ripped out of the headlines, but I don't want to ruin the story for you by divulging this element. I will say it was extremely clever and disturbing--brilliant writing and my hat is off to this author!
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.
I am incredibly ecstatic to report that this is the best mystery book I have read thus far this year. This book is well-written, has engaging characters, and deals with current topics. I have never read anything by this author, but after devouring this book, I am going to make it a point to look out for her books in the future.
Since this is a cozy mystery, there was truly nothing inappropriate. There were a few minimal instances of profanity (that I almost missed and did not find offensive), and there was no graphic violence. On the other hand, there was jaw-dropping suspense and action that kept me on the edge of my seat (especially towards the end of the book).
I also want to thank the author for dealing with the real issue of sex trafficking in the U.S. as so many people still do not recognize that this is a problem in this country. Additionally, there is another issue that crops up in the book that could have been ripped out of the headlines, but I don't want to ruin the story for you by divulging this element. I will say it was extremely clever and disturbing--brilliant writing and my hat is off to this author!
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.
May 1, 2016
I liked everything about this mystery: the plot, the characters, the set, the simple and linear style of the writer.
Carol is a radio journalist but often become an investigator. In the last year and a half, they have disappeared four girls in the surroundings of Hollywood. It's just found the body of a girl, is one of the disappeared, the daughter of a judge. Carol wants to investigate on their own, definitely wants to find all the girls. But it will not be easy, especially when her daughter will be in serious danger. She must also investigate the disappearance of the Marilyn's star in the Walk Of Fame.
The characters are well defined. I really loved Carol, I thought she was such a great and strong character! She's a single mother, has two wonderful children. She tries to reconcile her many work commitments with her family and fortunately can count on her friend Sheri. She's a nice woman and handyman, the ideal friend of all working mothers. Carol has also a beautiful and fascinating boyfriend Eric, an FBI agent.
The writing flows beautifully, the plot is developed very well, is very realistic and exciting, full of suspense.
This is the second in Silverman's series but can be read as a standalone. I look forward to the next one coming out in January.
Carol is a radio journalist but often become an investigator. In the last year and a half, they have disappeared four girls in the surroundings of Hollywood. It's just found the body of a girl, is one of the disappeared, the daughter of a judge. Carol wants to investigate on their own, definitely wants to find all the girls. But it will not be easy, especially when her daughter will be in serious danger. She must also investigate the disappearance of the Marilyn's star in the Walk Of Fame.
The characters are well defined. I really loved Carol, I thought she was such a great and strong character! She's a single mother, has two wonderful children. She tries to reconcile her many work commitments with her family and fortunately can count on her friend Sheri. She's a nice woman and handyman, the ideal friend of all working mothers. Carol has also a beautiful and fascinating boyfriend Eric, an FBI agent.
The writing flows beautifully, the plot is developed very well, is very realistic and exciting, full of suspense.
This is the second in Silverman's series but can be read as a standalone. I look forward to the next one coming out in January.
June 5, 2015
After the body of a young woman is found dumped in the Hollywood Hills and local young women (including an old coworker) turn up missing, radio reporter Carol Childs follows the clues and comes up with what could be the biggest human trafficking case in years. But when Carols main suspect turns out to be one of Hollywoods biggest and most beloved moguls she faces bigger obstacles then just finding the women alive.
Really enjoyed the second instalment in Nancy Cole Silverman's Carol Childs mystery series. More intense and action packed then the first I found myself unable to put it down, even though there was never any real doubt as to who the killer was. Taking from her many years in talk radio, Nancy creates a rich look at what happens behind the scenes in radio work that always adds to her storylines. If this is anything to go by Nancy is getting stronger with each book and I look forward to the next instalment!
*Thank you netgalley and Henery Press for this advance copy.*
Really enjoyed the second instalment in Nancy Cole Silverman's Carol Childs mystery series. More intense and action packed then the first I found myself unable to put it down, even though there was never any real doubt as to who the killer was. Taking from her many years in talk radio, Nancy creates a rich look at what happens behind the scenes in radio work that always adds to her storylines. If this is anything to go by Nancy is getting stronger with each book and I look forward to the next instalment!
*Thank you netgalley and Henery Press for this advance copy.*
August 1, 2015
I really enjoyed this book and despite the fact that I didn't start with book 1 in this series (this is only the 2nd book), I don't feel like I missed out too much on the personal story between Carol and Eric and even the friendship between Carol and Sheri.
This was a good twist on a topic that we don't see a lot in the news, sex trafficking. I was sort of surprised that Carol made this connection so early in the book. I'm not sure what tipped her off that this is what was happening to the missing women and young girls in the city. Carol rightfully suspects a certain character, but some of what is revealed about this character is definitely mind boggling. I don't want to give anything away, but the author touches on some important issues.
Definitely an enjoyable read and I need to go back and read book 1 and can't wait for book 3!
This was a good twist on a topic that we don't see a lot in the news, sex trafficking. I was sort of surprised that Carol made this connection so early in the book. I'm not sure what tipped her off that this is what was happening to the missing women and young girls in the city. Carol rightfully suspects a certain character, but some of what is revealed about this character is definitely mind boggling. I don't want to give anything away, but the author touches on some important issues.
Definitely an enjoyable read and I need to go back and read book 1 and can't wait for book 3!
July 14, 2015
Talk show host Carol Childs is called to report on a body found in canyon. Later the same morning she covers a promotion stunt on the Walk of Stars. As Carol continues to investigate the body is one of Hollywood's missing girls.we see a different character from the last book. Carol is determined to find the girls. What she finds will shock you. This book has a dark side to it. I miss the paranormal activity in this one as it help lightened book. The repeat of some areas cause me to loose interest. The supporting characters need further development, although the book is well written.
Full Disclosure: I received a free copy from HENERY PRESS through Netgalley for an honest review. I would like to thank them for this opportunity to read and review this book. The opinions are my own.
Full Disclosure: I received a free copy from HENERY PRESS through Netgalley for an honest review. I would like to thank them for this opportunity to read and review this book. The opinions are my own.
June 18, 2015
Woah, what a whirlwind ride. I could not put this book down. It started from the very beginning and never let up. Carol is crazy but she gets the job done and she is lucky to have Sheri. I want me a Sheri. Ha!
I'm pretty sure that somewhere back in time this was based off a true story. And that's a shame. You know this goes on everywhere.
But back to the book, I thoroughly enjoyed it and I really like the main character, Carol Childs. She's not going to take any crap and I like that. We need more strong female leads out there. I really like this series and look forward to the next one coming out in January.
Thanks Henery Press and Net Galley for the opportunity to read and review this very thrilling and entertaining read.
I'm pretty sure that somewhere back in time this was based off a true story. And that's a shame. You know this goes on everywhere.
But back to the book, I thoroughly enjoyed it and I really like the main character, Carol Childs. She's not going to take any crap and I like that. We need more strong female leads out there. I really like this series and look forward to the next one coming out in January.
Thanks Henery Press and Net Galley for the opportunity to read and review this very thrilling and entertaining read.
Read
September 16, 2015“A high-speed chase of a mystery, filled with very likable characters, a timely plot, and writing so compelling that readers will be unable to turn away from the page.” – Kings River Life Magazine
December 20, 2015
This review originally posted in Looking For a Good Book. Rated 4.0 of 5
I reviewed the first book in this mystery series about a year ago (you can read that review here) and found it to be fine but not outstanding. I am glad to report that this second book, Beyond a Doubt, by Nancy Cole Silverman, steps it up a notch and delivers an exciting mystery. More 'bite' - just as I asked for at the end of my previous review.
Carol Childs is a reporter for a local (Hollywood) radio station. She is on the scene where the body of a previously missing girl is being pulled from the Hollywood Hills. There have been a rash of reports of girls (young women in their early-to-mid twenties) gone missing. One of the latest is the daughter of a prominent judge.
Looking to not only report a story, but to report the conclusion to a story, Childs begins her own investigation. She discovers that it isn't just the pretty, white, college co-eds who have gone missing, but some of the young, African-American women from the poor end of the city have also gone missing, but no one reports this on local news media. Carol is made aware of this by a uniformed police officer she communicates with, who tells her that until the media starts paying attention to the people who aren't part of the rich and famous and 'in' crowd, he isn't too keen on working with the media.
As Carol starts putting the puzzle pieces together, getting her own daughter dangerously involved, she realizes that all signs point to a human trafficking ring and that behind it all is one very powerful, very dangerous man. A philanthropist and friend to many high-level figures in Los Angeles (including the chief of police) Carol's suspect has shown that he can get at Carol at any time. While she fears for her own life, and is in fact placed in mortal danger, she knows that only through her persistent attempts to get some proof can she save many young women.
Author Nancy Cole Silverman has written a really gripping mystery - a thriller, really - that you don't want to put down. There were moments still when I felt that the story jumped a bit too quickly and we were told some things, rather than experiencing them or discovering them as we moved along. I've also gone back to think more about the incident when Carol involves her daughter and it ends poorly. I did expect that this would play a much bigger part in the story later on, and while it was mentioned, it did not nearly have the impact I thought it should. I don't think this was a 'red herring' but just a sign of crafting a story that wasn't as sharp as it could be. Still, this is really a nice step up from the previous book and it bodes well for future Carol Childs Mysteries. Beyond a doubt...I'm impressed.
Looking for a good book? Nancy Cole Silverman's mystery, Beyond a Doubt, is a thrilling mystery that will keep the reader glued to the story right up to the very last page.
I reviewed the first book in this mystery series about a year ago (you can read that review here) and found it to be fine but not outstanding. I am glad to report that this second book, Beyond a Doubt, by Nancy Cole Silverman, steps it up a notch and delivers an exciting mystery. More 'bite' - just as I asked for at the end of my previous review.
Carol Childs is a reporter for a local (Hollywood) radio station. She is on the scene where the body of a previously missing girl is being pulled from the Hollywood Hills. There have been a rash of reports of girls (young women in their early-to-mid twenties) gone missing. One of the latest is the daughter of a prominent judge.
Looking to not only report a story, but to report the conclusion to a story, Childs begins her own investigation. She discovers that it isn't just the pretty, white, college co-eds who have gone missing, but some of the young, African-American women from the poor end of the city have also gone missing, but no one reports this on local news media. Carol is made aware of this by a uniformed police officer she communicates with, who tells her that until the media starts paying attention to the people who aren't part of the rich and famous and 'in' crowd, he isn't too keen on working with the media.
As Carol starts putting the puzzle pieces together, getting her own daughter dangerously involved, she realizes that all signs point to a human trafficking ring and that behind it all is one very powerful, very dangerous man. A philanthropist and friend to many high-level figures in Los Angeles (including the chief of police) Carol's suspect has shown that he can get at Carol at any time. While she fears for her own life, and is in fact placed in mortal danger, she knows that only through her persistent attempts to get some proof can she save many young women.
Author Nancy Cole Silverman has written a really gripping mystery - a thriller, really - that you don't want to put down. There were moments still when I felt that the story jumped a bit too quickly and we were told some things, rather than experiencing them or discovering them as we moved along. I've also gone back to think more about the incident when Carol involves her daughter and it ends poorly. I did expect that this would play a much bigger part in the story later on, and while it was mentioned, it did not nearly have the impact I thought it should. I don't think this was a 'red herring' but just a sign of crafting a story that wasn't as sharp as it could be. Still, this is really a nice step up from the previous book and it bodes well for future Carol Childs Mysteries. Beyond a doubt...I'm impressed.
Looking for a good book? Nancy Cole Silverman's mystery, Beyond a Doubt, is a thrilling mystery that will keep the reader glued to the story right up to the very last page.
Read
March 27, 2016Title: Beyond a Doubt - Carol Child's Mystery 2
Author: Nancy Cole Silverman
Published: 7-14-15
Publisher: Henery Press
Pages: 244
Genre: Mystery, Thrillers & Suspense
Sub Genre: Women Sleuths; Women's Fiction; Cozy Mystery
ISBN: 9781941962732
ASIN: B00W5VI838
Reviewer: DelAnne
Reviewed For: NetGalley
.
Carol Childs Investigative Reporter for KCHC Radio is called to the sight of a body dump site where the evidence shows a link to a case of missing young women one of whom is a co-worker of Carol's. As she investigate she digs up information on a human trafficking ring with ties with a well respected Hollywood hotshot. Carol finds herself with obstacles at every turn. Soon it is not just a matter of finding out what happened to the missing women, but keeping herself alive or worse from disappearing herself.
I still not sure I would call this series a true cozy, but I would gladly read any book in the series. The mysteries are of a deeper origin than a lightly mentioned murder with the heroine running around butting into everyone's business. Carol is a women of strong will and determination. The supporting characters are just as well developed and believable. Beyond a Doubt is plotted so that it flows quickly from scene to scene and keeps the reader involved trying to decipher the clues with Carol. Nance Cole Silverman is just as clever of keeping a reader guessing until she wants to bring the mystery to a climactic conclusion. If you haven't read Shadow of a Doubt you really should. Not that you need to as Beyond a doubt can be read as a standalone, but because it is a great read as well. Ms. Silverman's books are so good you cannot stop at just one. Book three, Without a Doubt will be out on May 24. 4 1/2 stars
Amazon link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
Barnes and Noble link: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/beyon...
GoodReads link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
The Reading Room link: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.ph...
Author: Nancy Cole Silverman
Published: 7-14-15
Publisher: Henery Press
Pages: 244
Genre: Mystery, Thrillers & Suspense
Sub Genre: Women Sleuths; Women's Fiction; Cozy Mystery
ISBN: 9781941962732
ASIN: B00W5VI838
Reviewer: DelAnne
Reviewed For: NetGalley
.
Carol Childs Investigative Reporter for KCHC Radio is called to the sight of a body dump site where the evidence shows a link to a case of missing young women one of whom is a co-worker of Carol's. As she investigate she digs up information on a human trafficking ring with ties with a well respected Hollywood hotshot. Carol finds herself with obstacles at every turn. Soon it is not just a matter of finding out what happened to the missing women, but keeping herself alive or worse from disappearing herself.
I still not sure I would call this series a true cozy, but I would gladly read any book in the series. The mysteries are of a deeper origin than a lightly mentioned murder with the heroine running around butting into everyone's business. Carol is a women of strong will and determination. The supporting characters are just as well developed and believable. Beyond a Doubt is plotted so that it flows quickly from scene to scene and keeps the reader involved trying to decipher the clues with Carol. Nance Cole Silverman is just as clever of keeping a reader guessing until she wants to bring the mystery to a climactic conclusion. If you haven't read Shadow of a Doubt you really should. Not that you need to as Beyond a doubt can be read as a standalone, but because it is a great read as well. Ms. Silverman's books are so good you cannot stop at just one. Book three, Without a Doubt will be out on May 24. 4 1/2 stars
Amazon link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
Barnes and Noble link: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/beyon...
GoodReads link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
The Reading Room link: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.ph...
May 1, 2015
This book was a real nail-biter! It kept my attention the entire time. I could actually put myself into Carol's place and live in this world for awhile. (I work in the media too, but I work at a newspaper instead of a radio station. Graphic artist, not news reporter.) The drama was heightened when her daughter gets embroiled in the action and that really brings home how important this story is, not only to Carol but to the city of Hollywood in general
Dr. Diamond was definitely M.A.D. in this book. It was creepy how he had everyone snowed. They believed everything he said and he held something over everyone's head in order for them not to talk. He must have been busy keeping all his threats safe. I like how he impersonated a famous actor, he was like Clark Kent changing his glasses and not one knew he was Superman. But instead Diamond had no moustache in real life and wore a moustache for his impersonating. This story is set in Hollywood and impersonators and the Hollywood club scene are featured prominently.
This book felt like it was based in the real world. It showcased human and organ trafficking on the black market while making the story reachable for those of us who think "it could never happen to us."
This is one you definitely need to check out.
5 Stars
I received this ad as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) from NetGalley in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
Dr. Diamond was definitely M.A.D. in this book. It was creepy how he had everyone snowed. They believed everything he said and he held something over everyone's head in order for them not to talk. He must have been busy keeping all his threats safe. I like how he impersonated a famous actor, he was like Clark Kent changing his glasses and not one knew he was Superman. But instead Diamond had no moustache in real life and wore a moustache for his impersonating. This story is set in Hollywood and impersonators and the Hollywood club scene are featured prominently.
This book felt like it was based in the real world. It showcased human and organ trafficking on the black market while making the story reachable for those of us who think "it could never happen to us."
This is one you definitely need to check out.
5 Stars
I received this ad as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) from NetGalley in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
November 25, 2016
This is the second book in the Carol Child’s Mystery Series. The further we go into this book the higher the level of suspense. This author definitely knows how to write. Once again we find our radio reporter knee deep in a case. Young women have begun to disappear and a young girl’s body is dumped in Hollywood. Carol figures out early on why the girls are disappearing, and that it is not only rich white girl. This one becomes more personal to her. A friend and co-worker goes missing. Her daughter is placed in danger. She thinks she knows who is behind it and the fact that they have a lot of influence makes her job of proving their guilt and the reasons behind it even more troubling and dangerous for her and her family. What made this book even better than the last one was that the events in this book are happening today. People like to turn a blind eye and pretend it doesn’t happen ‘here’. The action in this one moved even quicker. It didn’t matter we learn early on who the guilty party is. Knowing this bit of information and watching Carol do her best to prove it is what made this book so deliciously good. I believe it was better than the first book which I really enjoyed. I will definitely be reading and reviewing the third book.
May 22, 2015
This was 3.5 stars for me.
This book falls into the cozy genre, but it was quite a page turner at the end. The investigation was fun to read. Carol determines the mastermind behind the missing girls fairly early on – you aren’t waiting to the very end for that part – but she is searching for the true motive and how to prove it. The characters are likeable. There is somewhat of a radio-partnership being formed here between Carol and former FM-radio personality Cupid, I hope that continues into the next book.
My only complaint would be with the ending. I don’t want to give away spoilers, but I would say it felt a little convenient. That knocked the book down a bit for me on the rating.
This was a fun read, and would be especially enjoyable poolside for some summer reading.
From my review at Hidden Staircase.
Thanks to NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book falls into the cozy genre, but it was quite a page turner at the end. The investigation was fun to read. Carol determines the mastermind behind the missing girls fairly early on – you aren’t waiting to the very end for that part – but she is searching for the true motive and how to prove it. The characters are likeable. There is somewhat of a radio-partnership being formed here between Carol and former FM-radio personality Cupid, I hope that continues into the next book.
My only complaint would be with the ending. I don’t want to give away spoilers, but I would say it felt a little convenient. That knocked the book down a bit for me on the rating.
This was a fun read, and would be especially enjoyable poolside for some summer reading.
From my review at Hidden Staircase.
Thanks to NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 7, 2015
This is the second book in this series, and I enjoyed it as much as, if not more than, the first. Carol Childs is a radio talk show host who finds herself in the middle of a mystery involving missing women/girls. She winds up learning about many unsavory goings on in the Hollywood area, and has to face the realization she could be the next one to disappear--for good.
This book is very well written and the characters and settings are fully developed. Carol makes some foolish choices, but that just makes the character more human and believable. The story felt like something that could have been pulled from reality, rather than a work of fiction.
**I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.**
This book is very well written and the characters and settings are fully developed. Carol makes some foolish choices, but that just makes the character more human and believable. The story felt like something that could have been pulled from reality, rather than a work of fiction.
**I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.**
March 2, 2016
Beyond a Doubt is the second book in Carol Childs Mystery. When local talk radio reporter, Carol Childs covers the death of a young woman, she can't help but start uncovering facts and clues that put not only her but her own daughter in danger. Ms. Silverman always tells an excellent story where people may not be what they seem and keeps us guessing right up to the end. Bravo, Nancy!
September 13, 2016
Another fast paced Carol Child's story. Very well written. It draws you in as it deals with current issues. Carol seems to have met her match and may not be able resolve the problem, but in the end, all the pieces start coming together. It enjoyable to read a story using a radio reporter versus TV or newspaper. Looking forward to the next in the series.
August 15, 2017
The Carol Childs Mysteries are billed as "cozy" but if so, this one is edgy, as it deals with sex trafficking and sales of organs. Nice suspense, great character building and atmosphere in the seamier side of Hollywood. Each book in the series improves but some developments at the end strained my credulity somewhat. So, this one is a 3.5 rounded up to 4.
October 1, 2017
This is the second Carol Childs Mystery, but it is written to stand alone as easily as it follows book 1. These are cozy mysteries played out in the colorful and dynamic setting of contemporary Hollywood. Carol Childs is an appealing protagonist, a radio reporter drawn by her curiosity and caring to investigate rather than merely read the news. It doesn't hurt when she gets a scoop on a juicy story, but her real appeal is her heart. A divorced mother of two teenagers, she wants to help the vulnerable as much as she wants to get the story. I also like that she has a village of allies: best friend Sheri, who provides meals, a second home for Carol's son Charlie, and even high-tech equipment; on-air partner Cupid, an aging AM DJ making the switch to FM news; and hunky boyfriend Eric, an FBI agent who is on a sailing vacation for most of this volume but still manages to play to crucial role.
I realized reading this book that “cozy mystery” sounds snug and safe, like “fairy tale.” But fairy tales are horror stories for children, and the plot of a cozy mystery often deals with horrific crimes. The key is distance: Carol is a reporter, not a coroner or crime scene investigator. She views a murder victim from a distance, hears about organ harvesting, is moved by the sufferings of trafficking victims. Crimes happen off-stage and are not described in grisly detail. The reader can imagine as much or as little as she can handle, while cheering for Carol as she discovers clues, chuckling over her lack of fashion sense or talent in the kitchen, fretting as she gets into and out of peril. Carol is also open about what she doesn't know. In this book, she has to come to terms with human trafficking as a problem right here in the USA. And when it's brought to her attention that missing persons of color get little to no attention in the media, she has a moment of shame but doesn't get defensive. Instead, she makes the deliberate choice to include two missing black girls in her story, which unexpectedly wins her a whole crowd of allies. It's a gentle bit of Author's Message that could open readers' eyes without kicking them out of the story.
I realized reading this book that “cozy mystery” sounds snug and safe, like “fairy tale.” But fairy tales are horror stories for children, and the plot of a cozy mystery often deals with horrific crimes. The key is distance: Carol is a reporter, not a coroner or crime scene investigator. She views a murder victim from a distance, hears about organ harvesting, is moved by the sufferings of trafficking victims. Crimes happen off-stage and are not described in grisly detail. The reader can imagine as much or as little as she can handle, while cheering for Carol as she discovers clues, chuckling over her lack of fashion sense or talent in the kitchen, fretting as she gets into and out of peril. Carol is also open about what she doesn't know. In this book, she has to come to terms with human trafficking as a problem right here in the USA. And when it's brought to her attention that missing persons of color get little to no attention in the media, she has a moment of shame but doesn't get defensive. Instead, she makes the deliberate choice to include two missing black girls in her story, which unexpectedly wins her a whole crowd of allies. It's a gentle bit of Author's Message that could open readers' eyes without kicking them out of the story.
June 30, 2025
I liked this second book slightly better than the first one, but I'm not sure I'd be reading these at all if the series wasn't done. There's nothing really wrong with them, but I just don't connect with the MC.
May 22, 2015
Carol Childs is a reporter for an AM radio station. When she is called to the scene of a death by her boss, Tyler, she notices something about the dead girl. She was dressed for clubbing - and it appears she's fallen from a great height. Suddenly suspicious about the death, Carol decides to start digging. But the fact that she's doing so isn't popular with certain people, and it could put her in jeopardy.
The next day Carol is called to Hollywood's Walk of Fame where Marilyn Monroe's star has been stolen. She is confronted by a group of Marilyn impersonators and a flash mob decrying the theft. When the impersonator pushes a business card into Carol's hand, it could help her solve the murder. And when Carol's friend Gabi, who works in television, also disappears, then things begin to become personal. But not as personal as when the life of her daughter, Cate, is threatened, too.
What we have here is a novel of dark secrets, missing girls, human trafficking, and more. Ms. Silverman has given us a story of suspense, raw emotion, and peril which builds up to a satisfying climax. People are not who they seem. Situations are not what they seem. Carol begins investigating what appears to be a missing Walk of Fame star and winds up fighting for human lives. Luckily, she has the support of both her best friend Sheri and her boss Tyler, who not only has her back, he quietly lets her know he supports everything she's doing.
I hesitate to say more because each action of each character is tied in with something else that somehow all comes back together in one big circle. When you know the answer to one thing, it bleeds into something else that completely permeates that situation and turns into another. To summarize: A whole lot of whys and only one answer.
Ms. Silverman has given us another book that we can sit down and get our teeth into, and I look forward to the next in the series. Highly recommended.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review but this in no way influenced my decision.
The next day Carol is called to Hollywood's Walk of Fame where Marilyn Monroe's star has been stolen. She is confronted by a group of Marilyn impersonators and a flash mob decrying the theft. When the impersonator pushes a business card into Carol's hand, it could help her solve the murder. And when Carol's friend Gabi, who works in television, also disappears, then things begin to become personal. But not as personal as when the life of her daughter, Cate, is threatened, too.
What we have here is a novel of dark secrets, missing girls, human trafficking, and more. Ms. Silverman has given us a story of suspense, raw emotion, and peril which builds up to a satisfying climax. People are not who they seem. Situations are not what they seem. Carol begins investigating what appears to be a missing Walk of Fame star and winds up fighting for human lives. Luckily, she has the support of both her best friend Sheri and her boss Tyler, who not only has her back, he quietly lets her know he supports everything she's doing.
I hesitate to say more because each action of each character is tied in with something else that somehow all comes back together in one big circle. When you know the answer to one thing, it bleeds into something else that completely permeates that situation and turns into another. To summarize: A whole lot of whys and only one answer.
Ms. Silverman has given us another book that we can sit down and get our teeth into, and I look forward to the next in the series. Highly recommended.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review but this in no way influenced my decision.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 4, 2015
For a cozy mystery, this was pretty good, filled with excitement and lots of action. Carol Childs, a radio show persona, is determined to figure out what exactly is happening to girls in the LA area who are going missing. She figures it all out early on, but must then work on proving her theory. This takes her on a whirlwind tour of the city and its surroundings, while putting her right smack in the middle of a potential political scandal and risky mess. The story moves along at a fairly good clip, keeping the reader engaged throughout. Anyone can easily relate to the main character Carol Childs, a working mother who just cannot let a story go, especially one that concerns someone’s missing children. Carol has a close friend, Sherri, who also figures in the story, though not overpowering Carol, who is likewise a character we can relate to and enjoy. I found myself eagerly reading the story, as Carol got deeper and deeper into the plot and closer and closer to finding the clues necessary to implicate the guilty party. This is not some esoteric read, but a good, down-to-earth book you can take to the beach or on a trip. I am certain you will find it entertaining and fast moving enough to capture and hold your attention. This is the second book in the series. I have not read the first book, but will now go back to read more about this endearing, strong, smart woman Carol. I received this from NetGalley to read and review.
April 24, 2015
[ I received this book free from the publisher, Henery Press through NetGalley. I thank them for their generousity. In exchange, I was simply asked to write an honest review, and post it. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising]
When we say "Beyond a Doubt", it means we are usually certain of the outcome. This is the second in Silverman's series,( the first was Shadow of a Doubt) and it is as goid, if not better than its predecessor.
Carol Childs, ace radio reporter, single mother of two, works for a "news lite" format AM radio station in Hollywood. And when a body is found near a judge's home, she begins tracking forward and backward to find out why and who could've done such a thing. Within a short amount of time she is "up to her eyeballs" in kidnapping, organ dealers and cold cases that would confuse the most saavy investigator. It's just another story....until her daughter almost become the next victim.
With allussions to the old comedy about a radio station( WKRP), The Mary Tyler Moore Show (about TV news,) and Gotham ( currently on with an arch of stories about organ harvests), "Beyond a Doubt" solidifies Carol Childs and Nancy Cole Silverman, as characters and authors to watch out for
When we say "Beyond a Doubt", it means we are usually certain of the outcome. This is the second in Silverman's series,( the first was Shadow of a Doubt) and it is as goid, if not better than its predecessor.
Carol Childs, ace radio reporter, single mother of two, works for a "news lite" format AM radio station in Hollywood. And when a body is found near a judge's home, she begins tracking forward and backward to find out why and who could've done such a thing. Within a short amount of time she is "up to her eyeballs" in kidnapping, organ dealers and cold cases that would confuse the most saavy investigator. It's just another story....until her daughter almost become the next victim.
With allussions to the old comedy about a radio station( WKRP), The Mary Tyler Moore Show (about TV news,) and Gotham ( currently on with an arch of stories about organ harvests), "Beyond a Doubt" solidifies Carol Childs and Nancy Cole Silverman, as characters and authors to watch out for
July 25, 2015
This is the second book in the Carol Childs Mystery series. It does not disappoint. The murder part of it comes out quick and other mysteries you don't find out till later. It is a gripping tale. It is a clean read. Serious crimes happen but also has some humor in the story.
I like Carol and her friends and co-workers. She has a good circle around her. Carol is a divorced mother of two. Her boyfriend is away for most of the book sailing, He is a FBI Agent. Carol is a radio reporter.
Carol is called out to report of a body found close to her house early in the morning. They are wondering if it is one of the girls who have disappeared lately. Carol wants to keep the missing girls up front as a media story. She wants to find them before any more turn up dead.
The setting for this book is Hollywood, CA. It also has a lot of old Hollywood star impersonators too.
One of her leads turns out to be someone who is part the police force. Carol's own daughter is threatened.
I like the ending chapters. It all comes together just right.
I would read another book by Nancy Cole Silverman.
I was given this ebook of Beyond A Doubt to read by Net Galley and Henery Press. In return I agreed to give a honest review and be part of Beyond A Doubt blog tour.
December 26, 2017
Beyond a Doubt is the second in the Carol Childs series. I came away from this one feeling the same way I did about the first one - I liked it, but I didn’t love it. Carol is a divorced mother who’s in her second career as a radio news reporter. The things that happen in the radio station feel authentic, as does her relationship with her kids & friends. But she inserts herself in the stories she reports on, perhaps a bit too deeply since she finds she’s put herself in peril in each of the first two books. Her significant other is conveniently in the FBI. I think what puts me off a bit about both books is the decisions Carol makes at times - she knows what she should do, but she finds a way to rationalize doing the not-so-smart thing instead, and finds herself in danger. I’ll read more in the series, just to see if she starts making better decisions. I hope she does, because there’s promise here.
Copy provided by Netgalley and Henery Press in exchange for an unbiased review.
Copy provided by Netgalley and Henery Press in exchange for an unbiased review.
July 25, 2015
Carol Childs gets involved when she's called to the body dump. When someone else she knows, Gabi, is missing, she thinks there may be a connection. Then her daughter is drugged during a pub crawl and Carol is on a mission, with a little help from her friend, Sherri. Her corporate boss wants her to let it drop, wants a clean, homey show with lots of positives - certainly not a kidnapping/sex trafficking ring in Hollywood.
Silverman spins a great tale here, and I for one will not have the same thoughts when I hear of (or see) a Clark Gable impersonator. The story moves quickly and Carol manages to get herself into trouble. This isn't so much a "whodunit". The "who" is easy. Carol's challenge is in proving it without endangering her daughter or herself. This is the second in the series, but can easily be read as a stand alone. I'm looking forward to the third when it comes out.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Silverman spins a great tale here, and I for one will not have the same thoughts when I hear of (or see) a Clark Gable impersonator. The story moves quickly and Carol manages to get herself into trouble. This isn't so much a "whodunit". The "who" is easy. Carol's challenge is in proving it without endangering her daughter or herself. This is the second in the series, but can easily be read as a stand alone. I'm looking forward to the third when it comes out.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 8, 2015
Beyond A Doubt is the second book in the Carol Childs mystery series. It is a very well written and professionally edited, full length novel.
Carol, while working as a radio station's investigative reporter, is sent to cover the murder of a young woman. She soon finds herself delving into the world of missing women, sexual slavery and organ harvesting. The perpetrator of these crimes is a powerful man, entrenched in local government and charity circles. It is up to Carol to prove his guilt to law enforcement and to the public.
I fully enjoyed the fast paced plot and detailed investigation in BAD. And thank goodness (and the author) for an intelligent heroine and her equally intelligent female friend. Add that Carol is middle aged, a parent, with a normal body type and I was in Happy Reading Land.
ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley.
Carol, while working as a radio station's investigative reporter, is sent to cover the murder of a young woman. She soon finds herself delving into the world of missing women, sexual slavery and organ harvesting. The perpetrator of these crimes is a powerful man, entrenched in local government and charity circles. It is up to Carol to prove his guilt to law enforcement and to the public.
I fully enjoyed the fast paced plot and detailed investigation in BAD. And thank goodness (and the author) for an intelligent heroine and her equally intelligent female friend. Add that Carol is middle aged, a parent, with a normal body type and I was in Happy Reading Land.
ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley.
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