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Virtue Falls #1.5
The Relatives
New York Times Bestseller Christina Dodd brings you an all-new e-short story in her acclaimed Virtue Falls suspense series with…
THE RELATIVES!
What would you do when uninvited relatives drop by your home and stay … and stay … and stay?
Watch out!
From THE RELATIVES:
Gwen put her hand on the cloisonné tray with the bottle, the cork pull, and the two gold-rimmed crystal glasses. "As a welcome gift, we left you an appetizer tray and wine from one of Washington's finest wineries. The Chardonnay is one of our favorites, so we hope you will enjoy it."
Cecily sighed wistfully. "If only I could. But my acid reflux won't allow me to drink the tiniest drop of liquor of any kind."
"I'm sorry to hear that." Gwen was pretty sure she didn't give a damn.
"It's really okay. I'll be the one laughing when you drinkers destroy your livers."
Gwen, and her liver, were speechless.
Get THE RELATIVES now!
THE RELATIVES!
What would you do when uninvited relatives drop by your home and stay … and stay … and stay?
Watch out!
From THE RELATIVES:
Gwen put her hand on the cloisonné tray with the bottle, the cork pull, and the two gold-rimmed crystal glasses. "As a welcome gift, we left you an appetizer tray and wine from one of Washington's finest wineries. The Chardonnay is one of our favorites, so we hope you will enjoy it."
Cecily sighed wistfully. "If only I could. But my acid reflux won't allow me to drink the tiniest drop of liquor of any kind."
"I'm sorry to hear that." Gwen was pretty sure she didn't give a damn.
"It's really okay. I'll be the one laughing when you drinkers destroy your livers."
Gwen, and her liver, were speechless.
Get THE RELATIVES now!
45 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 7, 2015
28 people are currently reading
705 people want to read
About the author
Christina Dodd
103 books5,912 followersUpcoming:
— 6/30/26 TEACH THE TORCHES TO BURN: Daughter of Montague Historical Fiction #3 https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
New and Now!
—MUCH ADO ABOUT MISTLETOE: Daughter of Montague Christmas novella https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
— THUS WITH A KISS I DIE Daughter of Montague Historical Fiction #2
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
— A DAUGHTER OF FAIR VERONA Historical Fiction Trade Paperback Once upon a time a young couple met and fell in love. You probably know that story, and how it ended (hint: badly). Only here’s the thing: That’s not how it ended at all…
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
— WELCOME TO GOTHIC: A Gothic novella in ebook (at last!) https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
— WHAT DREAMS MAY COME Daughter of Montague novella 1.5 "I’m the daughter of Romeo and Juliet. Yes, that Romeo and Juliet. No, they didn’t die in the tomb…" https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
— GIRL ANONYMOUS “Crackling sexual chemistry and a few love scenes guaranteed to scorch readers’ fingers as they turn the pages." — ⭐️ Booklist
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
Readers become writers, and Christina has always been a reader. Ultimately she discovered she liked to read romance best because the relationship between a man and a woman is always humorous. A woman wants world peace, a clean house, and a deep and meaningful relationship based on mutual understanding and love. A man wants a Craftsman router, undisputed control of the TV remote, and a red Corvette which will make his bald spot disappear.
When Christina’s first daughter was born, she told her husband she was going to write a book. It was a good time to start a new career, because how much trouble could one little infant be?
Ha! It took ten years, two children and three completed manuscripts before she was published. Now her suspense, paranormal, historical, and mystery novels have been translated into 30 languages and sold more than 15 million copies in print. Praised for her “brilliantly etched characters, polished writing, and unexpected flashes of sharp humor that are pure Dodd” (Booklist), her award-winning books have landed on numerous Best of the Year lists and, much to her mother's delight, Dodd was once a clue in the Los Angeles Times crossword puzzle. She lives with her family in the Pacific Northwest, where her 700 lavender plants share the yard with her husband’s various “Big Projects,” including a treehouse, zipline, and their very own Stonehenge.
Enter Christina’s worlds and join her mailing list for humor, book news and entertainment (yes, she’s the proud author with the infamous three-armed cover) at christinadodd.com. For more information on A DAUGHTER OF FAIR VERONA, visit daughterofmontague.com. Her legions of fans know that when they pick up a Christina Dodd book, they'll find the story, "Wildly entertaining, wickedly witty!"
Christina is married to a man with all his hair and no Corvette, but many Craftsman tools.
(Source: http://www.christinadodd.com )
— 6/30/26 TEACH THE TORCHES TO BURN: Daughter of Montague Historical Fiction #3 https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
New and Now!
—MUCH ADO ABOUT MISTLETOE: Daughter of Montague Christmas novella https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
— THUS WITH A KISS I DIE Daughter of Montague Historical Fiction #2
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
— A DAUGHTER OF FAIR VERONA Historical Fiction Trade Paperback Once upon a time a young couple met and fell in love. You probably know that story, and how it ended (hint: badly). Only here’s the thing: That’s not how it ended at all…
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
— WELCOME TO GOTHIC: A Gothic novella in ebook (at last!) https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
— WHAT DREAMS MAY COME Daughter of Montague novella 1.5 "I’m the daughter of Romeo and Juliet. Yes, that Romeo and Juliet. No, they didn’t die in the tomb…" https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
— GIRL ANONYMOUS “Crackling sexual chemistry and a few love scenes guaranteed to scorch readers’ fingers as they turn the pages." — ⭐️ Booklist
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
Readers become writers, and Christina has always been a reader. Ultimately she discovered she liked to read romance best because the relationship between a man and a woman is always humorous. A woman wants world peace, a clean house, and a deep and meaningful relationship based on mutual understanding and love. A man wants a Craftsman router, undisputed control of the TV remote, and a red Corvette which will make his bald spot disappear.
When Christina’s first daughter was born, she told her husband she was going to write a book. It was a good time to start a new career, because how much trouble could one little infant be?
Ha! It took ten years, two children and three completed manuscripts before she was published. Now her suspense, paranormal, historical, and mystery novels have been translated into 30 languages and sold more than 15 million copies in print. Praised for her “brilliantly etched characters, polished writing, and unexpected flashes of sharp humor that are pure Dodd” (Booklist), her award-winning books have landed on numerous Best of the Year lists and, much to her mother's delight, Dodd was once a clue in the Los Angeles Times crossword puzzle. She lives with her family in the Pacific Northwest, where her 700 lavender plants share the yard with her husband’s various “Big Projects,” including a treehouse, zipline, and their very own Stonehenge.
Enter Christina’s worlds and join her mailing list for humor, book news and entertainment (yes, she’s the proud author with the infamous three-armed cover) at christinadodd.com. For more information on A DAUGHTER OF FAIR VERONA, visit daughterofmontague.com. Her legions of fans know that when they pick up a Christina Dodd book, they'll find the story, "Wildly entertaining, wickedly witty!"
Christina is married to a man with all his hair and no Corvette, but many Craftsman tools.
(Source: http://www.christinadodd.com )
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
November 28, 2016
I had mixed feelings about this novella. On one hand I hated how things went on in this story, but on the other hand I was blown away by the plot twist. I wouldn't say it was a good read, but I wouldn't say it was a disappointment either. All I can tell you right now is that it left me stunned!
I really didn't know how to rate this short story, so I ended up giving it 3 stars.
I really didn't know how to rate this short story, so I ended up giving it 3 stars.
April 9, 2015
THE RELATIVES a novella (Virtue Falls 1.5) by Christina Dodd, a quirky funny, short thriller of some long lost family relatives, coming for a two day visit, which turns into a disaster--as they plot to destroy their hosts’ life. (love her novellas-great teasers)!
Gwen and Mario are a super couple with a business and a beautiful Venetian-style home in the Pacific Northwest. Their home has been featured in upscale magazines and they have taken pride in the architecture, design, and the gardens. From cuisine to entertaining, they are pros. However, nothing could prepare them for The Relatives.
Presently, Mario’s cousins from Minneapolis, Minnesota have come from a two day visit. Mario is the owner of an expanding electrical firm with locations from Portland to the Canadian border--handsome, hospitable, and Italian to the bones—assuring guests they were welcome.
However, the two guests, Cecily and Landon are trouble from day one. Cecily is a constant complainer about virtually everything from illnesses, food, and manipulative. From the minute they arrive, she is not happy staying in the stunning guest cottage and wants to be in the main house. Landon, goes along with whatever Cecily says.
When day three comes and they cannot get rid of these two, someone is thinking murder. However, will the hosts or the cousins win out? Similar to The Magpies, except relatives-instead of neighbors.
I was introduced to Christina Dodd last year with her smashing introduction of VIRTUE FALLS (Virtue Falls #1), and its prequel THE LISTENER (Virtue Falls .5), a powerful new series, which I highly recommend.
The best part of the novella - includes a bonus sneak peak of upcoming suspense thriller, OBSESSION FALLS (Virtue Falls #2) Sept, 2015 with Taylor Summers, an artist returning to the mountains, when she happens to stumble upon more than the scenic mountains, hiking, and a peaceful day of sketching. Someone is about to be murdered and they are threatening a young boy. What happens next may change her life.
Fans of suspense, mystery, drama, crime thrillers, and romance will enjoy the series; all rolled into one, guaranteeing you an engaging and satisfying ride! Looking forward to Book #2, another suspense thriller.
Christina, hope you and Emily enjoy your cruise and look forward to the updates!
JDC Must Read Books
Gwen and Mario are a super couple with a business and a beautiful Venetian-style home in the Pacific Northwest. Their home has been featured in upscale magazines and they have taken pride in the architecture, design, and the gardens. From cuisine to entertaining, they are pros. However, nothing could prepare them for The Relatives.
Presently, Mario’s cousins from Minneapolis, Minnesota have come from a two day visit. Mario is the owner of an expanding electrical firm with locations from Portland to the Canadian border--handsome, hospitable, and Italian to the bones—assuring guests they were welcome.
However, the two guests, Cecily and Landon are trouble from day one. Cecily is a constant complainer about virtually everything from illnesses, food, and manipulative. From the minute they arrive, she is not happy staying in the stunning guest cottage and wants to be in the main house. Landon, goes along with whatever Cecily says.
When day three comes and they cannot get rid of these two, someone is thinking murder. However, will the hosts or the cousins win out? Similar to The Magpies, except relatives-instead of neighbors.
I was introduced to Christina Dodd last year with her smashing introduction of VIRTUE FALLS (Virtue Falls #1), and its prequel THE LISTENER (Virtue Falls .5), a powerful new series, which I highly recommend.
The best part of the novella - includes a bonus sneak peak of upcoming suspense thriller, OBSESSION FALLS (Virtue Falls #2) Sept, 2015 with Taylor Summers, an artist returning to the mountains, when she happens to stumble upon more than the scenic mountains, hiking, and a peaceful day of sketching. Someone is about to be murdered and they are threatening a young boy. What happens next may change her life.
Fans of suspense, mystery, drama, crime thrillers, and romance will enjoy the series; all rolled into one, guaranteeing you an engaging and satisfying ride! Looking forward to Book #2, another suspense thriller.
Christina, hope you and Emily enjoy your cruise and look forward to the updates!
JDC Must Read Books
May 28, 2016
This story read on what not to do when your dealing with people you don't like and suspect them of criminal dealing! The whole thing could have been avoided easily if they listen to their gut, and been firmer in trying to get them out of the house.
June 12, 2015
Interesting novel
Definitely unexpected. Most novels the good guys win. This one has an unexpected twist. Very, very good job on mixing it up.
Definitely unexpected. Most novels the good guys win. This one has an unexpected twist. Very, very good job on mixing it up.
June 27, 2017
After thoroughly enjoying the first book in the series, this book was horrible! I read these books for their HEA, not this foolishness!
April 12, 2015
Why did you write this?
I can not believe this novella. It is ghastly. I know I need more words for this review, but I can't say anything else. I realize it is a prequel but the actions are too horrible for words.
I can not believe this novella. It is ghastly. I know I need more words for this review, but I can't say anything else. I realize it is a prequel but the actions are too horrible for words.
March 2, 2021
4.5 Stars
rounded up to 5 Stars.
As good ole Ben Franklin said "Guests, like fish, begin to smell after three days." These two relatives stank just after ten minutes!
As good ole Ben Franklin said "Guests, like fish, begin to smell after three days." These two relatives stank just after ten minutes!
April 11, 2015
Would be 4 stars, but
April 12, 2015
Another Absolutely Amazing Virtual Falls addition!
Wow! I never would have expected this! Absolutely fascinating!! I will never look at visiting relatives the same way again! Haha I am absolutely loving this new series of Virtual Falls books. Christina Dodd is absolutely killing it! I've definitely found my newest addiction!! This installment is filled with kindness, deceit, love, wait....I'm so not wanting to spoil the book. But seriously, you want to read it! Some relatives can just make you want to permanently harm them and you will never expect what happens in this story! The ending is so unexpected it will shock you to your core! And this book shows you that some people are never quite what they seem! If I was a teacher I'd give Christina Dodd A++!!
Wow! I never would have expected this! Absolutely fascinating!! I will never look at visiting relatives the same way again! Haha I am absolutely loving this new series of Virtual Falls books. Christina Dodd is absolutely killing it! I've definitely found my newest addiction!! This installment is filled with kindness, deceit, love, wait....I'm so not wanting to spoil the book. But seriously, you want to read it! Some relatives can just make you want to permanently harm them and you will never expect what happens in this story! The ending is so unexpected it will shock you to your core! And this book shows you that some people are never quite what they seem! If I was a teacher I'd give Christina Dodd A++!!
July 11, 2015
GraphReading Progress
07/10 marked as: currently-reading
07/11 marked as: read
07/11 "I have been a fan of Christina Dodd for years. She creates characters that you love or hate, as their layers unfold. The Relatives confirmed this for me. I immediately detested conniving Cecily and her meek husband Landon. Gwen and Mario are like able and accommodating. Mario searched for his American relatives and found Landon. He and Cecily invited themselves to visit Gwen and Mario. It was a disaster!
Dishonesty, spite and cruelty controlled Cecily as she did her best to undermine Gwen and her marriage. The ending is shocking. However, this is a Prequel to Christina's new book, "ObsessionFalls" . I'll have to wait and see the next episode. Hurry September!1
07/10 marked as: currently-reading
07/11 marked as: read
07/11 "I have been a fan of Christina Dodd for years. She creates characters that you love or hate, as their layers unfold. The Relatives confirmed this for me. I immediately detested conniving Cecily and her meek husband Landon. Gwen and Mario are like able and accommodating. Mario searched for his American relatives and found Landon. He and Cecily invited themselves to visit Gwen and Mario. It was a disaster!
Dishonesty, spite and cruelty controlled Cecily as she did her best to undermine Gwen and her marriage. The ending is shocking. However, this is a Prequel to Christina's new book, "ObsessionFalls" . I'll have to wait and see the next episode. Hurry September!1
July 12, 2015
With relatives like Cecily and Landon Ricci, who needs enemies? Gwen and Mario Ricci have created a great business and a beautiful guest cottage for family and friends to stay in. Only nothing suits Cecily who stages an accident so she can stay longer while she siphons off Gwen and Mario's money. Landon, her husband, is a dolt who lets his wife do what she wants.
However, at the end, you have to wonder if he really is a dolt. Don't want to give too much away so read this short story. I usually don't like short stories, but this was good.
However, at the end, you have to wonder if he really is a dolt. Don't want to give too much away so read this short story. I usually don't like short stories, but this was good.
April 24, 2015
Well written short story but it depressed me! Seriously, I was so upset by the ending, it stuck with me for a day or so and actually made me tear up. Looking forward to the next full length entry in the Virtue Falls world to have a happy ending.
April 20, 2015
I had read some of the reviews, so I knew there was no happy ending. With that in mind, I set out to read what was another great story by Ms. Dodd. While it's definitely not her usual style, it was funny, entertaining, and at the end horrible. Can't wait for the next full novel.
April 22, 2015
Visitors from hell
What a story! I shudder to think that this could ever happen and yet, I thought this story could have been an episode on The Twilight Zone. Thank you Christina for this imaginative tale.
What a story! I shudder to think that this could ever happen and yet, I thought this story could have been an episode on The Twilight Zone. Thank you Christina for this imaginative tale.
September 8, 2015
This is a very short novella. I enjoy Christina Dodd's writting. Her writing has me glued until the end. The characters in this short story were unlikable and what happens towards the end was horrible but what saved it for me was the twist towards the end.
September 16, 2015
A twisted short tale of relatives visiting. Shudder. You don't want these guys at your house! Scary addition to the new Virtue Falls series. I loved it!
June 23, 2016
Never let them stay!
Cute story, loved the locals, the visitors not so much.
Some people are just nasty and jealous and want to be the center of attention!
Cute story, loved the locals, the visitors not so much.
Some people are just nasty and jealous and want to be the center of attention!
June 12, 2015
It was a good short read but not sure liked the way it ended and hoping maybe a new book on story in the future from this ending.
April 10, 2015
An unexpected twist. Enjoyed the book, but that twist really threw me. Can't wait for the next book.
April 24, 2015
Wow! I never expected this! A twisted little short! Not your usual Dodd. I loved it!
September 19, 2015
Loved it! Great little novella. Everyone's worst nightmare-- the relatives from Hell. I look forward to reading Obsession Falls
September 21, 2015
Loved it, short and funny.
May 6, 2015
3.5 Interesting take on uninvited relatives that you just can't get rid of.
August 9, 2017
Wow..what a Ride!
Excellent short story. Gut wrenching and never a dull word. Definitely not a romance but very well written. Give me more!
Excellent short story. Gut wrenching and never a dull word. Definitely not a romance but very well written. Give me more!
November 7, 2017
Hated this story. It is well written but that was it. I did not see the point of this novella.
November 15, 2017
This was unusual. It was worth the read.
September 11, 2023
Awful story. This is romantic suspense. The bad guys are not supposed to win
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 15, 2023
I did not like this story at all...
December 12, 2024
It packed quite a wallop of an ending! Loved it!
March 2, 2017
The only good thing about this novella is that it's short. I usually like Christina Dodd's books, but this one is not my cup of tea. Don't waste your time--terrible!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews