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Lethal in Love: Episode 1
Lethal in Love is a steamy romantic suspense about an instinct-driven detective and a sexy, scoop-hungry reporter, both on the hunt for a sadistic killer.
Jayda Thomasz is a sassy homicide detective who never lets her emotions get in the way of a case. So when a serial killer re-emerges after 25 years, the last thing she expects is to catch herself fantasising over the hot, smooth-talking stranger who crosses the path of her investigation.
Seth Friedin is a reporter chasing the story that'll make his career. When he enters the world of swinging for research, he never imagines he'll be distracted by a hard-talking female detective whose kiss plagues his mind long after she's gone.
Past experience has shown Jayda that reporters are ruthless and unscrupulous. But when the murders get personal, will she make a deal with the devil to catch the killer? How far will she and Seth have to go? And do you ever really know who you can trust?
'A powerful new voice in crime fiction' Valerie Parv
'Move over Dexter! Michelle Somers crafts a gripping read from first page to chilling last' Robyn Grady
2013 winner of the Valerie Parv Award.
Jayda Thomasz is a sassy homicide detective who never lets her emotions get in the way of a case. So when a serial killer re-emerges after 25 years, the last thing she expects is to catch herself fantasising over the hot, smooth-talking stranger who crosses the path of her investigation.
Seth Friedin is a reporter chasing the story that'll make his career. When he enters the world of swinging for research, he never imagines he'll be distracted by a hard-talking female detective whose kiss plagues his mind long after she's gone.
Past experience has shown Jayda that reporters are ruthless and unscrupulous. But when the murders get personal, will she make a deal with the devil to catch the killer? How far will she and Seth have to go? And do you ever really know who you can trust?
'A powerful new voice in crime fiction' Valerie Parv
'Move over Dexter! Michelle Somers crafts a gripping read from first page to chilling last' Robyn Grady
2013 winner of the Valerie Parv Award.
98 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 15, 2015
2 people are currently reading
54 people want to read
About the author
Michelle Somers
15 books32 followersMichelle Somers is a bookworm from way back. An ex-Kiwi who now calls Australia home, she’s a professional killer and matchmaker, a storyteller and a romantic. Words are her power and her passion. Her heroes and heroines always get their happy ever after, but she’ll put them through one hell of a journey to get there.
Michelle lives in Melbourne, Australia, with her real life hero and three little heroes in the making. And Emerald, a black furry feline who thinks she’s a dog.
Her debut novel, Lethal in Love won the Romance Writers of Australia’s 2016 Romantic Book of the Year (RuBY) and the 2013 Valerie Parv Award.
Michelle lives in Melbourne, Australia, with her real life hero and three little heroes in the making. And Emerald, a black furry feline who thinks she’s a dog.
Her debut novel, Lethal in Love won the Romance Writers of Australia’s 2016 Romantic Book of the Year (RuBY) and the 2013 Valerie Parv Award.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
August 25, 2015
So this is the first instalment of this romantic suspense series from Kiwi/Aussie author Michelle Somers.
I really like the cover of this book. It grabbed my attention, and I love the colours!
Jayda is a detective working in Melbourne. She is working on a case of a serial killer nicknamed The Night Terror. She goes undercover to a swingers club where she meets Seth. Seth is actually a reporter doing some undercover work of his own... Sparks fly, and then the killer strikes again...
This is quite a difficult one to go into depth on, considering it was an intro and only 100 or so pages long, so I'll make some sub headings:
What I liked:
It was a cute, easy read. Perfect for the train or at the hairdressers, or in my case it was an hour in bed listening to my husband snoring away next to me before I fell asleep. It literally took an hour, I think it was a little less.
I am going to be honest, I haven't read many Australian authors (I know, how un-patriotic of me!!) and even less that are set in Australia so it was nice to have that Aussie feel to it.
What I didn't like about it:
This is going to sound strange considering this was also something that was good about it, I liked that it was quick to read, but it was a little TOO short. Yes I understand it's a serial, but I don't particularly feel that the intro was strong enough to entice the majority to read the second. I would have preferred a bit more grit in a bigger book.
The "romance"??? Again, I know this is only the intro and the characters are bound to develop, but I didn't even buy the chemistry between the two of them from the start. And the steamy scenes?? Maybe considering I didn't get this chemistry between them in the first place, the sexy scenes made me feel a little chilly. I didn't feel the tension!
Hopefully the relationship will develop more after the events of the end of this episode. There was a big life shattering shock at the end which made it more exciting, but apart from that it wasn't very suspenseful. However I get that she's just setting the scene up.
Ultimately I found it average to slightly above average. There was definite potential there, I will read the next one if I come across it.
2.5-3ish stars
Would I recommend it?? Maybe... Ask me after I've finished episode 2 - if I get there...
Thanks to the publisher Random House Australia and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this in exchange for an honest review.
For more of my reviews visit my blog :)
www.booksbabiesbeing.com
I really like the cover of this book. It grabbed my attention, and I love the colours!
Jayda is a detective working in Melbourne. She is working on a case of a serial killer nicknamed The Night Terror. She goes undercover to a swingers club where she meets Seth. Seth is actually a reporter doing some undercover work of his own... Sparks fly, and then the killer strikes again...
This is quite a difficult one to go into depth on, considering it was an intro and only 100 or so pages long, so I'll make some sub headings:
What I liked:
It was a cute, easy read. Perfect for the train or at the hairdressers, or in my case it was an hour in bed listening to my husband snoring away next to me before I fell asleep. It literally took an hour, I think it was a little less.
I am going to be honest, I haven't read many Australian authors (I know, how un-patriotic of me!!) and even less that are set in Australia so it was nice to have that Aussie feel to it.
What I didn't like about it:
This is going to sound strange considering this was also something that was good about it, I liked that it was quick to read, but it was a little TOO short. Yes I understand it's a serial, but I don't particularly feel that the intro was strong enough to entice the majority to read the second. I would have preferred a bit more grit in a bigger book.
The "romance"??? Again, I know this is only the intro and the characters are bound to develop, but I didn't even buy the chemistry between the two of them from the start. And the steamy scenes?? Maybe considering I didn't get this chemistry between them in the first place, the sexy scenes made me feel a little chilly. I didn't feel the tension!
Hopefully the relationship will develop more after the events of the end of this episode. There was a big life shattering shock at the end which made it more exciting, but apart from that it wasn't very suspenseful. However I get that she's just setting the scene up.
Ultimately I found it average to slightly above average. There was definite potential there, I will read the next one if I come across it.
2.5-3ish stars
Would I recommend it?? Maybe... Ask me after I've finished episode 2 - if I get there...
Thanks to the publisher Random House Australia and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this in exchange for an honest review.
For more of my reviews visit my blog :)
www.booksbabiesbeing.com
November 9, 2015
This copy kindly provided by NetGalley on behalf of the publisher
*Reviewing episodes 1-6 all together
Right from the start there was something about this series that hooked me. It was a little different than most shorts I've read - this one a being a mystery, rather than the typical erotic/good girl bad guy/poor girl rich guy kinda things.
It was easy to read. I found it generally light & fun, as well as deeply emotional at various points throughout. The story line was good, not too far fetched, & also not blindingly obvious as to what's going to happen next.
The author did a fantastic job at keeping the killers identity hidden until the very end. Every time there were clues to who the killer was, I thought I had it figured out, then the next one would come & I'd move onto the next person on the list. But I never did get it right, only figuring it out with the final details at the very last moment before actually being revealed to the reader.
I would most definitely be interested in any future publications from this author.
*Reviewing episodes 1-6 all together
Right from the start there was something about this series that hooked me. It was a little different than most shorts I've read - this one a being a mystery, rather than the typical erotic/good girl bad guy/poor girl rich guy kinda things.
It was easy to read. I found it generally light & fun, as well as deeply emotional at various points throughout. The story line was good, not too far fetched, & also not blindingly obvious as to what's going to happen next.
The author did a fantastic job at keeping the killers identity hidden until the very end. Every time there were clues to who the killer was, I thought I had it figured out, then the next one would come & I'd move onto the next person on the list. But I never did get it right, only figuring it out with the final details at the very last moment before actually being revealed to the reader.
I would most definitely be interested in any future publications from this author.
July 11, 2015
Fabulous start to what is going to be a thrilling ride. Michelle Somers sets up a gripping mystery in Lethal in Love: Episode 1 where we're introduced to detective Jayda Thomasz, reporter Seth Frieden and their hunt for a serial killer dubbed The Night Terror. This has all the hallmarks of a great romantic suspense - steamy tension, danger and blade-sharp writing.
A perfect read for fans of JD Robb's In Death series and TV shows like Bones, Lethal In Love will suck you in from the first scene. This episode provides a look into the serial killer's MO and Jayda's theory on why he's re-emerged after 25 years in hiding. Then the case takes a turn and Jayda's got more on the line than her job.
I can't say too much about where this episode goes (no spoilers here!) but I can say you need read Michelle Somers. Now.
A perfect read for fans of JD Robb's In Death series and TV shows like Bones, Lethal In Love will suck you in from the first scene. This episode provides a look into the serial killer's MO and Jayda's theory on why he's re-emerged after 25 years in hiding. Then the case takes a turn and Jayda's got more on the line than her job.
I can't say too much about where this episode goes (no spoilers here!) but I can say you need read Michelle Somers. Now.
August 13, 2015
Lovers of suspense are in for a treat with the serialisation of LETHAL IN LOVE by Michelle Somers. It's gritty, it's sexy and it kept me reading long past my bedtime two nights in a row! Can't wait for the future instalments. Love the concept of reading a serial again.
I also enjoy reading stories set in Australia with characters I can relate to. The series is off to a cracking start with Episode One.
I also enjoy reading stories set in Australia with characters I can relate to. The series is off to a cracking start with Episode One.
July 16, 2015
I loved Lethal In Love, part one. Michelle Somers managed to suck me right into the story from the very beginning, with a combination of sexy romance and a gritty crime story. This reminds me of the best TV cop shows such as NYPD Blue, but it's set in Melbourne! Awesomeness. I can't wait to read part 2 and continue Seth and Jayda's story.
December 7, 2015
Jayda is a homicide detective. She comes in action when a dead body turns up. She is feisty and also a bit of a loner. Jayda and her partner Chase are the lead investigators when a serial killer starts leaving victims again after 25 years of silence. They never caught him all of those years ago and now he's back. Jayda has big shoes to fill as her father was a detective before he retired. He was very well respected during his years on the force. Will Jayda be able to stop the Night Terror Killer before he takes more lives?
Chase had a little thing for Jayda. They almost had a slip-up together but in the end it didn't happen. Jayda sees this as a good thing because she wants to stay professional and she knows that Chase will always have her back. Sean is a journalist who is not happy with his current job. He is looking for the perfect story to give him the boost he needs to get better offers. Is the Night Terror case the one he needs?
Lethal in Love Episode 1 will deal with all the things I mentioned above. It reads like a television series. My number one addiction is, obviously, books but number two, television series, is not far behind. I love the fact that this story feels like this. In the evening I always want to watch a little bit of television, but a movie is usually too long, so I love to watch an episode of one of my favorite series. They take no more than 45 minutes of my time and then I can also still do other things. Often this will be reading. You can finish an episode of the Lethal in Love series easily in one evening as well.
Michelle Somers did an amazing job in writing a fast-paced story. She will keep you guessing from page one and makes you hungry for more after the ending of an episode. Since the very first lines I find myself guessing who the serial killer is. Now I have to keep reading until I finished all the six episodes to see if I am right. Like every good episode the first part of this story has an open end, so it will seduce you to come back for more. I cannot wait to be reading the other episodes. I guess I found myself another addiction.
Chase had a little thing for Jayda. They almost had a slip-up together but in the end it didn't happen. Jayda sees this as a good thing because she wants to stay professional and she knows that Chase will always have her back. Sean is a journalist who is not happy with his current job. He is looking for the perfect story to give him the boost he needs to get better offers. Is the Night Terror case the one he needs?
Lethal in Love Episode 1 will deal with all the things I mentioned above. It reads like a television series. My number one addiction is, obviously, books but number two, television series, is not far behind. I love the fact that this story feels like this. In the evening I always want to watch a little bit of television, but a movie is usually too long, so I love to watch an episode of one of my favorite series. They take no more than 45 minutes of my time and then I can also still do other things. Often this will be reading. You can finish an episode of the Lethal in Love series easily in one evening as well.
Michelle Somers did an amazing job in writing a fast-paced story. She will keep you guessing from page one and makes you hungry for more after the ending of an episode. Since the very first lines I find myself guessing who the serial killer is. Now I have to keep reading until I finished all the six episodes to see if I am right. Like every good episode the first part of this story has an open end, so it will seduce you to come back for more. I cannot wait to be reading the other episodes. I guess I found myself another addiction.
October 22, 2015
What a gripping story! I don’t read a lot of romantic suspense books and sometimes find they sway too much to one side of the genre, but Michelle Somers has balanced the romance and the suspense perfectly.
This thrilling story about a gutsy homicide detective heroine and journalist hero trying to prove himself hit all the right buttons for me. Their romance sizzles (as do the love scenes) and the growth of their relationship is realistic and worth the wait, which is sure to satisfy the most critical romance reader.
The crime/suspense thread of this story is crafted so well I was ‘on the edge of my seat’ the whole way through trying to figure out who the serial killer could be. I wouldn’t be surprised if we see Lethal in Love as a feature film one day.
I am blown away by the writing, characters and plot of this fabulous story and can’t wait to read more from this author.
This thrilling story about a gutsy homicide detective heroine and journalist hero trying to prove himself hit all the right buttons for me. Their romance sizzles (as do the love scenes) and the growth of their relationship is realistic and worth the wait, which is sure to satisfy the most critical romance reader.
The crime/suspense thread of this story is crafted so well I was ‘on the edge of my seat’ the whole way through trying to figure out who the serial killer could be. I wouldn’t be surprised if we see Lethal in Love as a feature film one day.
I am blown away by the writing, characters and plot of this fabulous story and can’t wait to read more from this author.
December 29, 2015
Lethal In Love 1 by Michelle Somers is the first ever serial novel I've read, and if the standards of this part of the serial is anything to go by, I think I'm going to love this narrative and its creative process!
Lethal In Love 1 is the debut narrative serial by New Zealand born, but now an Aussie based author Michelle Somers. In total the Lethal in Love narrative is to be made up of six (6) of this novella bite sized stories that will follow on from each other and read as one completed novel by the end. Although the creative process is different, I really like the idea of using a serial to tell an Australian based Romantic Suspense story as the structure of each part of the story will mean there will be so many more twists and turns, highs and lows and the narrative climaxes should be that more stronger. All of that said, I am basing this off the one book I've read so far, and what I've heard about serials before.
As serials are designed, I read this entire part in one sitting on the train to Sydney early one morning and I couldn't get enough. My swiping finger (was reading it on my tablet) was going hell for leather as I raced my self through the fantastic first instalment of what is sure to be an inspiring creative storytelling feat and an overall brilliant storytelling. This short instalment already has it all: Intrigue, mystery, and a great mix of tension and sexual chemistry. What more could you want really from a romantic suspense story?
It surprised me that Michelle Somers is a debut author with this narrative, as in a relatively short amount of pages she was able to successfully evoke a wide range of emotions through both the characters and myself as a reader. Already I'm intrigued as to who exactly the copy cat is, and I felt the worse sense of foreboding and dread when I worked out the copy cat was stalking. I'm making this sound really dark, but its honestly not (although it is a romantic suspense narrative featuring detectives searching for a murder, so there will be some darker aspects) all doom and gloom, as Somers expertly weaves some happier, and shall we say more sexier times through the narrative with the protagonists sharing such strong sexual chemistry that you can almost feel sizzling right off the very page. What's more is sexual chemistry that actually works within the bounds of the story and isn't simply a plot device or fluff filler, as despite having just meet these characters (and them having just meet each other) their chemistry and that bond just ... works. It feels right. There is also a sense of overpowering grief felt for a particular character that the reader is realistically introduced to twice in the entire text so far, so the fact that I do feel bad and am grieving their loss (and gasping out loud and getting indigent on public trains on their behalf) just goes to show just how powerful and moving Somers' writing really is.
In terms of structure and story, these part of the text (and I'm going to go ahead and assume the entire narrative will be the same) is told from three alternate points of view (POV): the first is homicide Detective Jayda Thomasz and our leading heroine, the second is what I'm guessing will become her leading man perhaps but is the reporter in residence Seth Friedin and the third is this unnamed or identifiable psychopath voice that I can only assume is our murder. Any writer will tell you that the voice of a character is often the hardest to nail, but the fact that Somers here has not only nailed one distinctive character voice, but three very different voices and personalities is nothing short of brilliant writing and character development. Although Jayda is our cop, from what were given here we already know she's going to be one hell of a character to run around with as not only is she fiery as hell, but she's stubborn as they come and quick witted and smart.Seth on the other hand is caring and sexy despite his lowly job as a reporter (Jayda's thoughts on him), but he's committed and ready to do anything he can to get his story, and perhaps help Jayda along the way too. This third psychopath voice however is eerily aloft and so well written that you can't help but get goosebumps crawling across your skin as you read in slight discomfort his/her thoughts and what they are planning on doing. If that last part is not a sign of a phenomenal writer, I don't know what is!
As a whole I'm really intrigued by the Lethal in Love serial. Not only because of its unusual format that leaves you wanting more - I so desperately wanted to read the next one the second I finished - but it's so well written and cleverly devised. The tone and pacing is spot on and I'm so intrigued (and slightly disturbed) by these characters and their back stories I simply NEED to know more and more. The way that third ominous and creepy psychopath's parts are written I kind of really want to read more and see if the person I'm already beginning to suspect as the killer is in fact the right guy or find out if we've even met them yet!
I highly recommend this serial to anyone whose looking for a quick story that's a bit outside the box. The serial format lends itself to a quick read without loosing any of the fantastic writing, story and/or character development and sure as hell make the whole thing more suspenseful with its mini cliff hangers and that overwhelming sense of lingering ... let's just say this story has stuck with me since I read it that very first day on the train and it's still lingering on in my head as I write this an entire week and half later. Do yourself a favour and grab yourself a copy of this gem of book, especially while the first part is free. After all, what have you really got to loose?
Lethal In Love 1 is the debut narrative serial by New Zealand born, but now an Aussie based author Michelle Somers. In total the Lethal in Love narrative is to be made up of six (6) of this novella bite sized stories that will follow on from each other and read as one completed novel by the end. Although the creative process is different, I really like the idea of using a serial to tell an Australian based Romantic Suspense story as the structure of each part of the story will mean there will be so many more twists and turns, highs and lows and the narrative climaxes should be that more stronger. All of that said, I am basing this off the one book I've read so far, and what I've heard about serials before.
As serials are designed, I read this entire part in one sitting on the train to Sydney early one morning and I couldn't get enough. My swiping finger (was reading it on my tablet) was going hell for leather as I raced my self through the fantastic first instalment of what is sure to be an inspiring creative storytelling feat and an overall brilliant storytelling. This short instalment already has it all: Intrigue, mystery, and a great mix of tension and sexual chemistry. What more could you want really from a romantic suspense story?
It surprised me that Michelle Somers is a debut author with this narrative, as in a relatively short amount of pages she was able to successfully evoke a wide range of emotions through both the characters and myself as a reader. Already I'm intrigued as to who exactly the copy cat is, and I felt the worse sense of foreboding and dread when I worked out the copy cat was stalking. I'm making this sound really dark, but its honestly not (although it is a romantic suspense narrative featuring detectives searching for a murder, so there will be some darker aspects) all doom and gloom, as Somers expertly weaves some happier, and shall we say more sexier times through the narrative with the protagonists sharing such strong sexual chemistry that you can almost feel sizzling right off the very page. What's more is sexual chemistry that actually works within the bounds of the story and isn't simply a plot device or fluff filler, as despite having just meet these characters (and them having just meet each other) their chemistry and that bond just ... works. It feels right. There is also a sense of overpowering grief felt for a particular character that the reader is realistically introduced to twice in the entire text so far, so the fact that I do feel bad and am grieving their loss (and gasping out loud and getting indigent on public trains on their behalf) just goes to show just how powerful and moving Somers' writing really is.
In terms of structure and story, these part of the text (and I'm going to go ahead and assume the entire narrative will be the same) is told from three alternate points of view (POV): the first is homicide Detective Jayda Thomasz and our leading heroine, the second is what I'm guessing will become her leading man perhaps but is the reporter in residence Seth Friedin and the third is this unnamed or identifiable psychopath voice that I can only assume is our murder. Any writer will tell you that the voice of a character is often the hardest to nail, but the fact that Somers here has not only nailed one distinctive character voice, but three very different voices and personalities is nothing short of brilliant writing and character development. Although Jayda is our cop, from what were given here we already know she's going to be one hell of a character to run around with as not only is she fiery as hell, but she's stubborn as they come and quick witted and smart.Seth on the other hand is caring and sexy despite his lowly job as a reporter (Jayda's thoughts on him), but he's committed and ready to do anything he can to get his story, and perhaps help Jayda along the way too. This third psychopath voice however is eerily aloft and so well written that you can't help but get goosebumps crawling across your skin as you read in slight discomfort his/her thoughts and what they are planning on doing. If that last part is not a sign of a phenomenal writer, I don't know what is!
As a whole I'm really intrigued by the Lethal in Love serial. Not only because of its unusual format that leaves you wanting more - I so desperately wanted to read the next one the second I finished - but it's so well written and cleverly devised. The tone and pacing is spot on and I'm so intrigued (and slightly disturbed) by these characters and their back stories I simply NEED to know more and more. The way that third ominous and creepy psychopath's parts are written I kind of really want to read more and see if the person I'm already beginning to suspect as the killer is in fact the right guy or find out if we've even met them yet!
I highly recommend this serial to anyone whose looking for a quick story that's a bit outside the box. The serial format lends itself to a quick read without loosing any of the fantastic writing, story and/or character development and sure as hell make the whole thing more suspenseful with its mini cliff hangers and that overwhelming sense of lingering ... let's just say this story has stuck with me since I read it that very first day on the train and it's still lingering on in my head as I write this an entire week and half later. Do yourself a favour and grab yourself a copy of this gem of book, especially while the first part is free. After all, what have you really got to loose?
July 18, 2015
I’m always surprised when people tell me they rarely read more than a page of a book at night before falling asleep or struggle to get through just a few books a year. But.. there are also people who can apparently eat only one biscuit or piece of chocolate rather than the whole packet. So… whatevs….
Busy peeps or those with short attention spans will probably very much appreciate books like Lethal in Love, which is being offered in episodes.
I’m not sure they’re for me however as: I’m all about instant gratification; I’m a prolific reader; and (quite frankly) I can barely remember stuff from one day to the next, let alone episodes being released one month apart.
Random House’s Lethal in Love Episode one was released last week and features a homicide detective, Jayda Thomasz on the hunt for a serial killer.
And... sadly I have to admit this book wasn’t really one I enjoyed for a number of reasons.
Early in the episode there seemed to be a lot of names bandied about which meant nothing to me. I checked (more than once) that I did have episode one and not episode two or three. Somers does double back and fill readers in on characters or events mentioned, but my early notes include: Who’s Liam? Who’s Hackett? Who’s Bec? And so forth!
The fact that we’re dropped in mid-way through a case was also a little bewildering… again making me wonder if this book came part-way through a series. I must have been skimming too much and missed have an earlier discussion about the Night Terror, for example as reference to that killer was dropped into the plot in a very matter-of-fact way.
I was also confused about the comings and goings at the swingers party. Brian’s disappearance was very sudden as was Seth’s appearance. I was worried for a moment that Brian was going to be a far-too-obvious baddie.
So.. in case you didn’t gather… this book really wasn’t for me. I didn’t enjoy the almost-sex scenes; and the editing and plot felt like they had a few holes.
However… I really liked Somers’ informal, easy-to-read and enjoyable style of writing which is the only reason I kept reading. While I won’t tune in for future episodes I’ll be interested to see what she comes up with in future.
2-2.5 stars
Busy peeps or those with short attention spans will probably very much appreciate books like Lethal in Love, which is being offered in episodes.
I’m not sure they’re for me however as: I’m all about instant gratification; I’m a prolific reader; and (quite frankly) I can barely remember stuff from one day to the next, let alone episodes being released one month apart.
Random House’s Lethal in Love Episode one was released last week and features a homicide detective, Jayda Thomasz on the hunt for a serial killer.
And... sadly I have to admit this book wasn’t really one I enjoyed for a number of reasons.
Early in the episode there seemed to be a lot of names bandied about which meant nothing to me. I checked (more than once) that I did have episode one and not episode two or three. Somers does double back and fill readers in on characters or events mentioned, but my early notes include: Who’s Liam? Who’s Hackett? Who’s Bec? And so forth!
The fact that we’re dropped in mid-way through a case was also a little bewildering… again making me wonder if this book came part-way through a series. I must have been skimming too much and missed have an earlier discussion about the Night Terror, for example as reference to that killer was dropped into the plot in a very matter-of-fact way.
I was also confused about the comings and goings at the swingers party. Brian’s disappearance was very sudden as was Seth’s appearance. I was worried for a moment that Brian was going to be a far-too-obvious baddie.
So.. in case you didn’t gather… this book really wasn’t for me. I didn’t enjoy the almost-sex scenes; and the editing and plot felt like they had a few holes.
However… I really liked Somers’ informal, easy-to-read and enjoyable style of writing which is the only reason I kept reading. While I won’t tune in for future episodes I’ll be interested to see what she comes up with in future.
2-2.5 stars
May 22, 2016
I do love a good Romantic Suspense and Michelle Somers didn't disappoint. Lovers of Bones, NCIS and CSI will enjoy these short bursts or episodes in the Lethal in Love series. I was certainly left wanting more and look forward to episode 2.
Ms Somers takes a creepy villain, a sassy detective and very sexy reporter and throws them right into the action from page one. The story moves fast and I soon found myself drawn into the mystery and intrigue surrounding the case of a serial killer, dormant for twenty five years, who rises to kill again. Jayda's gut instinct is almost always reliable and something tells her they've got a copycat killer on their hands. Seth is on the hunt for a good story but when he meets Jayda, he finds himself attracted to the case for much more. When the killer makes things personal, Jayda and Seth are thrown together to pool their talents and track down the monster terrorising the back alleys of Melbourne at night.
As both attraction and danger target them, Seth and Jayda work hard to unravel the mystery surrounding the escalating deaths of young virgins. While I think I might know who the killer is, I look forward to either being proved wrong or very surprised as the next episodes unfold. Bring on Episode 2!
Thank you to Penguin Random House and Netgalley for my ARC
Ms Somers takes a creepy villain, a sassy detective and very sexy reporter and throws them right into the action from page one. The story moves fast and I soon found myself drawn into the mystery and intrigue surrounding the case of a serial killer, dormant for twenty five years, who rises to kill again. Jayda's gut instinct is almost always reliable and something tells her they've got a copycat killer on their hands. Seth is on the hunt for a good story but when he meets Jayda, he finds himself attracted to the case for much more. When the killer makes things personal, Jayda and Seth are thrown together to pool their talents and track down the monster terrorising the back alleys of Melbourne at night.
As both attraction and danger target them, Seth and Jayda work hard to unravel the mystery surrounding the escalating deaths of young virgins. While I think I might know who the killer is, I look forward to either being proved wrong or very surprised as the next episodes unfold. Bring on Episode 2!
Thank you to Penguin Random House and Netgalley for my ARC
December 20, 2016
Lethal in Love is a serial that is part suspense and part romance.
I found the combination to be both fast paced and riveting right to the very end.
This story is about a police officer and a reporter both wanting to find out who the serial killer is and along the way they find attraction for one another.
Both have their own issues to deal with whilst they are doing their own investigating.
The romance never detracted from the main whodunit and I found it only enhanced the characters story.
I enjoyed that it was based in Australia and the dialogue reflects this.
I loved the twists and turns in the story and always enjoy being surprised when reading a suspense novel.
I read this initially in instalments but it is fantastic it comes as the one book all in one so no excuse to stop reading.
Look forward to reading more by Michelle Somers.
December 13, 2015
PS: Let it be noted that I’m reviewing Lethal in Love by Michelle Somers episodes 1-6 as one.
Lethal in Love by Michelle Somers is one of the most thrilling romantic suspense’s I’ve read in the past month. Each episode is perfectly written, the conflict is well drawn out and the characters deliver with a punch. Great writing and a gripping mystery will rivet you until the last episode. Jayda Thomasz is terrific. Seth Frieden is the perfect nemesis to Jayda and the serial killer The Night Terror gives you the chills. Overall, Lethal in Love episodes 1-6 by Michelle Somers is perfect. The characters, the drama, the tension, the nail-biting, edge of your seat suspense and Ms. Somers edgy writing style will leave you breathlessly satisfied!
Highly Recommended
4 Stars
September 6, 2015
I received a free copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I don't usually like serial novels but "Lethal in Love" has started out great. I like that we get to see inside the mind of the killer as well as the heroine. I already have my suspicions about who one of the killers is and I'm looking forward to finding out if I'm right. I can also imagine how badly things are going to go for Seth once Jayda finds out what he really does for a living.
This book is a well-written, fast-paced read. I can't wait to get into the next episode.
5 stars.
I don't usually like serial novels but "Lethal in Love" has started out great. I like that we get to see inside the mind of the killer as well as the heroine. I already have my suspicions about who one of the killers is and I'm looking forward to finding out if I'm right. I can also imagine how badly things are going to go for Seth once Jayda finds out what he really does for a living.
This book is a well-written, fast-paced read. I can't wait to get into the next episode.
5 stars.
April 8, 2016
What a fabulous story this one is it has been calling to me for a while now and I finally fell into it and can't wait to read the other instalments.
This one has everything that a romantic suspense should have intrigue emotions that are flying off the pages this really is a page turner thank you MS Somers for great story that I highly recommend and I am looking forward to more of Jayda and Seth's story as the track a killer (or two).
This one has everything that a romantic suspense should have intrigue emotions that are flying off the pages this really is a page turner thank you MS Somers for great story that I highly recommend and I am looking forward to more of Jayda and Seth's story as the track a killer (or two).
July 17, 2015
A gritty engaging suspense that really delivers! The heroine is someone you really feel for and the tension really got to me. Thought about this story long after I'd finished reading it. Great writing, believable dialogue and suspects galore. Gripping. Can't wait for the next episode!
July 20, 2015
Great, easy read. Can't wait for the next episode.
July 31, 2015
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Her writing style is amazing and I loved it. Real page turner. Can't wait to find out who's the killer.
May 10, 2019
Fantastic read. Didn't want to put it down to sleep. Loved it.
May 30, 2016
Set in Australia, but with a decidedly American feel to it, LETHAL IN LOVE is a serialised novel in six parts. Fascinating idea and one that I've always wondered why somebody hasn't done. Released over a period of time, each episode is probably best described as a long novella in length, each advancing the suspense and the romantic side of the story. Although to a reader somewhat disconnected from the world of romantic suspense, I will confess the "romance" aspects read substantially more like "lust" for most of the novel. (Having read all six episodes back to back, I'm going to have to refer to this as a single entity for the purposes of this review).
It's a serial killer story with the romantic twist being the attraction between homicide detective Jayda Thomasz and Seth Friedin a reporter. They meet up when they both join a swingers club for their own reasons. The attraction between them is instantly electric and their desire for each other overwhelming. Their introduction into the story comes at a rapid pace, along with what seems like a cast of thousands. I will confess to getting horribly lost and confused early on whilst characters with names like Jayda, Seth, Liam, Bec, Hackett and Brian (and now even with all my notes I can't for the life of me clearly remember his part in the action) popped up from everywhere. Needless to say, in the early episodes you're going to need to concentrate to keep up. You're also going to need to do some work to sort out the foundations of the serial killer story as the action starts out well down the path of the case. There's a serial killer in town - the police know that when the reader arrives. They know the MO, they seem to have a connection between the victims - and they have Thomasz already going undercover - into the swingers scene to try to attract attention / flush the killer.
Once the initial confusion of getting to know who is who and why they are where they are, the plot settles into itself and things become a little easier to follow. Which then provided a number of challenges. The lust aspect of the relationship between the two main characters is pretty full on - and it seemed to go on forever. For this reader the biggest problem that presented was a tendency to overshadow and muddy the waters. For the longest time Thomasz reaction to the murder of somebody very close to her just didn't ring true, and became mightily distracting.
Which means I'm working my way to the biggest problem I had with LETHAL IN LOVE and that's the balance between the suspense and the romance. In this case the romance / lust won hands down - making the serial killer aspects constantly less focused. Given many of the aspects of the case, and not just the personal connection to investigators, it just felt wrongly balanced and very off putting as a result. And that, for a dedicated crime fiction fan, just didn't work, although it could be that romance readers will find it more to their liking.
https://www.austcrimefiction.org/revi...
It's a serial killer story with the romantic twist being the attraction between homicide detective Jayda Thomasz and Seth Friedin a reporter. They meet up when they both join a swingers club for their own reasons. The attraction between them is instantly electric and their desire for each other overwhelming. Their introduction into the story comes at a rapid pace, along with what seems like a cast of thousands. I will confess to getting horribly lost and confused early on whilst characters with names like Jayda, Seth, Liam, Bec, Hackett and Brian (and now even with all my notes I can't for the life of me clearly remember his part in the action) popped up from everywhere. Needless to say, in the early episodes you're going to need to concentrate to keep up. You're also going to need to do some work to sort out the foundations of the serial killer story as the action starts out well down the path of the case. There's a serial killer in town - the police know that when the reader arrives. They know the MO, they seem to have a connection between the victims - and they have Thomasz already going undercover - into the swingers scene to try to attract attention / flush the killer.
Once the initial confusion of getting to know who is who and why they are where they are, the plot settles into itself and things become a little easier to follow. Which then provided a number of challenges. The lust aspect of the relationship between the two main characters is pretty full on - and it seemed to go on forever. For this reader the biggest problem that presented was a tendency to overshadow and muddy the waters. For the longest time Thomasz reaction to the murder of somebody very close to her just didn't ring true, and became mightily distracting.
Which means I'm working my way to the biggest problem I had with LETHAL IN LOVE and that's the balance between the suspense and the romance. In this case the romance / lust won hands down - making the serial killer aspects constantly less focused. Given many of the aspects of the case, and not just the personal connection to investigators, it just felt wrongly balanced and very off putting as a result. And that, for a dedicated crime fiction fan, just didn't work, although it could be that romance readers will find it more to their liking.
https://www.austcrimefiction.org/revi...
October 22, 2015
(I received a free copy of this book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.)
Lethal in Love is a steamy romantic suspense about an instinct-driven detective and a sexy, scoop-hungry reporter, both on the hunt for a sadistic killer. Jayda Thomasz is a sassy homicide detective who never lets her emotions get in the way of a case. So when a serial killer re-emerges after 25 years, the last thing she expects is to catch herself fantasising over the hot, smooth-talking stranger who crosses the path of her investigation.Seth Friedin is a reporter chasing the story that'll make his career. When he enters the world of swinging for research, he never imagines he'll be distracted by a hard-talking female detective whose kiss plagues his mind long after she's gone.Past experience has shown Jayda that reporters are ruthless and unscrupulous. But when the murders get personal, will she make a deal with the devil to catch the killer? How far will she and Seth have to go? And do you ever really know who you can trust?
Can't say I am a fan of "serial novellas masquerading as novels" - 98 pages of an undeveloped cast of characters; a plot that we seem to have been dropped into the middle of (had to make sure this WAS part one!); and a set of circumstances that are just too cliched to be taken too seriously.
Was it easy to read? Sure it was - but that isn't always a good thing.
I won't be investing in the following parts. I prefer stories that end and wrap up at least one plot line, at the very least. This just...stops.
Paul
ARH
Lethal in Love is a steamy romantic suspense about an instinct-driven detective and a sexy, scoop-hungry reporter, both on the hunt for a sadistic killer. Jayda Thomasz is a sassy homicide detective who never lets her emotions get in the way of a case. So when a serial killer re-emerges after 25 years, the last thing she expects is to catch herself fantasising over the hot, smooth-talking stranger who crosses the path of her investigation.Seth Friedin is a reporter chasing the story that'll make his career. When he enters the world of swinging for research, he never imagines he'll be distracted by a hard-talking female detective whose kiss plagues his mind long after she's gone.Past experience has shown Jayda that reporters are ruthless and unscrupulous. But when the murders get personal, will she make a deal with the devil to catch the killer? How far will she and Seth have to go? And do you ever really know who you can trust?
Can't say I am a fan of "serial novellas masquerading as novels" - 98 pages of an undeveloped cast of characters; a plot that we seem to have been dropped into the middle of (had to make sure this WAS part one!); and a set of circumstances that are just too cliched to be taken too seriously.
Was it easy to read? Sure it was - but that isn't always a good thing.
I won't be investing in the following parts. I prefer stories that end and wrap up at least one plot line, at the very least. This just...stops.
Paul
ARH
August 24, 2015
Incredibly well written, with great pacing and a very good setup of both plot and characters. The only unfortunate fault I'm simply going to pick with this short novella is truncation of the whole story into episodes that would stretch over a few months (especially when I finish nearly a book a day)...which arguably doesn't function as well as it would in television.
August 4, 2016
I was hopeful for this Australian book, but it read like some cheap American sex trash, with a serial killer by line that really went nowhere. The book ends without any answers to anything and I am not at all compelled to find out what happens next.
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