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Rose Gardner Mystery #8
Thirty-Five and a Half Conspiracies
Rose Gardner has survived plenty of close scrapes in the past, but her latest bit of trouble has landed her in the Fenton County holding cell on trumped up charges. The most powerful man in southern Arkansas, J.R. Simmons, is determined to put her behind bars for good and destroy everything she holds dear, including her boyfriend, Mason, and her friend Skeeter, reigning king of the Fenton County crime world. In a stunning betrayal, it seems as if J.R.’s son, Rose’s ex-boyfriend, might have turned tail and joined his father.
But Rose doesn’t have to face this fight alone. Her tight-knit group of friends is dedicated to helping her figure out — and foil — J.R.’s plan for ruining her, Mason, and Skeeter. But even with their support and the use of her special power, Rose is at a disadvantage. J.R. is a criminal mastermind who has been using his money, power, and web of influence to hide his conspiracies for years. How can she hope to find solid evidence implicating someone who’s mastered the art of not getting caught?
Time is running out, and soon Rose realizes that reassuming her role of the Lady in Black might be her only chance at ferreting out the evidence that will save them all. In so doing, she will risk not only her life, but the possibility that her secret identity will be unveiled to all.
But Rose doesn’t have to face this fight alone. Her tight-knit group of friends is dedicated to helping her figure out — and foil — J.R.’s plan for ruining her, Mason, and Skeeter. But even with their support and the use of her special power, Rose is at a disadvantage. J.R. is a criminal mastermind who has been using his money, power, and web of influence to hide his conspiracies for years. How can she hope to find solid evidence implicating someone who’s mastered the art of not getting caught?
Time is running out, and soon Rose realizes that reassuming her role of the Lady in Black might be her only chance at ferreting out the evidence that will save them all. In so doing, she will risk not only her life, but the possibility that her secret identity will be unveiled to all.
474 pages, ebook
First published November 6, 2015
954 people are currently reading
1604 people want to read
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March 1, 2016
Thirty-Five and a Half Conspiracies is book eight in the Rose Gardner Mystery series by Denise Grover Swank. I have loved this series from the first page of the first book. After finishing this book, I have one question…Who is that woman and what have you done with my Rose? You are going to meet a new Rose Gardner in this book. She is a little tougher, more street smart, and a little harder around the edges. There are still little bits of the sweet, innocent Rose we first met in book one. But our Rose has changed. It will be up to you to decide if you like this new and improved version or not.
The book starts right up where the previous book left off. Rose is in jail on false charges who we all know were instigated by the evil J.R. Simmons. They are fast tracking Rose’s case because the judge is also in J.R.’s pocket. If this goes to trial, there is no way she will be found innocent. Carter Hale is doing all he can do to get her out on bail. But his resources are limited as well. Even at the worst moment of Rose’s life, though, she has her friends supporting her.
“I’d gone from friendless and lonely to bursting at the seams with people who loved and cared about me. Here I was sitting at the defense table wearing an orange jumpsuit, but I was luckier than most people in the world.”
Once Rose does get out on bail, she takes things into her own hands to prove her innocence.
“We’re all tangled up in the same ball of yarn, Carter Hale. I save one of us, I save us all.”
Skeeter Malcolm is in hiding so Rose turns to Jed for help. She knows she is going to have to bring back her alter ego, the Lady in Black, to get things moving. I want to say here that I love Jed. I thought perhaps he had fallen for Rose but other reasons are revealed for the loyalty he feels towards her. Reasons that made me love him all the more.
“I still saw the Lady in Black as our best, and maybe only, chance to save all of us. When I performed my role as the Lady in Black, there was always a separation between the Lady and Rose. But tonight, the line I usually skirted had not only blurred but faded altogether. I couldn’t help wondering which part of me would be strongest when this was all said and done.”
This book, as every one in this series, is non-stop. We are constantly wondering who can Rose trust and who is working for J.R. We get some questions answered but there are still many unsolved mysteries. Who paid Rose’s bail? What is Kate up to? Can Rose trust Joe? Who is Rose’s true father? And there are many more.
I believe the next book, Thirty-Six and a Half Motives, is the final book in this series. It is due out in May and I can’t wait. I have loved Rose for so long, I can’t imagine my life without her. Will she get her own HEA? Will it be with Mason? Or Joe? My stomach gets all twirly just thinking about it. So, if you haven’t started this series yet, or have some catching up to do, now is the time. You only have a couple of months.
“You have fought for everything you have, and you thrive on the struggle. You’re called to it. The harder things are, the better you get.”
The book starts right up where the previous book left off. Rose is in jail on false charges who we all know were instigated by the evil J.R. Simmons. They are fast tracking Rose’s case because the judge is also in J.R.’s pocket. If this goes to trial, there is no way she will be found innocent. Carter Hale is doing all he can do to get her out on bail. But his resources are limited as well. Even at the worst moment of Rose’s life, though, she has her friends supporting her.
“I’d gone from friendless and lonely to bursting at the seams with people who loved and cared about me. Here I was sitting at the defense table wearing an orange jumpsuit, but I was luckier than most people in the world.”
Once Rose does get out on bail, she takes things into her own hands to prove her innocence.
“We’re all tangled up in the same ball of yarn, Carter Hale. I save one of us, I save us all.”
Skeeter Malcolm is in hiding so Rose turns to Jed for help. She knows she is going to have to bring back her alter ego, the Lady in Black, to get things moving. I want to say here that I love Jed. I thought perhaps he had fallen for Rose but other reasons are revealed for the loyalty he feels towards her. Reasons that made me love him all the more.
“I still saw the Lady in Black as our best, and maybe only, chance to save all of us. When I performed my role as the Lady in Black, there was always a separation between the Lady and Rose. But tonight, the line I usually skirted had not only blurred but faded altogether. I couldn’t help wondering which part of me would be strongest when this was all said and done.”
This book, as every one in this series, is non-stop. We are constantly wondering who can Rose trust and who is working for J.R. We get some questions answered but there are still many unsolved mysteries. Who paid Rose’s bail? What is Kate up to? Can Rose trust Joe? Who is Rose’s true father? And there are many more.
I believe the next book, Thirty-Six and a Half Motives, is the final book in this series. It is due out in May and I can’t wait. I have loved Rose for so long, I can’t imagine my life without her. Will she get her own HEA? Will it be with Mason? Or Joe? My stomach gets all twirly just thinking about it. So, if you haven’t started this series yet, or have some catching up to do, now is the time. You only have a couple of months.
“You have fought for everything you have, and you thrive on the struggle. You’re called to it. The harder things are, the better you get.”
November 5, 2015
I am in a total complete shock. As I sit here, trying desperately to collect all of my thoughts on this book, I have decided to just write what I am feeling right now. Now many of you know that I love reading all of Denise's books because she knows how to tell a great story and leave you wanting more. Well, Ms. Swank, you have left me completely befuddled. I don't know what to write, I don't know what to say. Everything I want to write down in this review would give so much of the awesomeness in this book away. I took my time reading this one. I didn't read it in one setting because I knew that I needed to take my time and make sure I knew what was going on. That being said, I HAD NO CLUE WHAT WAS GOING TO HAPPEN. Everything that I thought would happen didn't. Everything that I thought couldn't happen, did. Twist after twist and not only that, laughs, heartbreak, funny Rose and Neely Kate moments, crying, hating, loving, you name it I was feeling it.
Thirty-five picks up right where Thirty-four leaves off. You don't miss anything. From the start of this book, you knew that you were in for the ride of your life. The ups and downs that go along with every Rose book, you know at some point in time you are going to go through the grieving process. Right now I am in the baffled portion of the process. I have a HUGE glass of wine with me just to make me feel OK. (Wine makes everything OK right?). I need to read more of what is going to happen. I need Thirty-Six to come out like now. I don't like waiting at all. But, I know that Denise is going to make the next one even better than this one.
Thirty-five picks up right where Thirty-four leaves off. You don't miss anything. From the start of this book, you knew that you were in for the ride of your life. The ups and downs that go along with every Rose book, you know at some point in time you are going to go through the grieving process. Right now I am in the baffled portion of the process. I have a HUGE glass of wine with me just to make me feel OK. (Wine makes everything OK right?). I need to read more of what is going to happen. I need Thirty-Six to come out like now. I don't like waiting at all. But, I know that Denise is going to make the next one even better than this one.
December 5, 2015
Rose has been arrested on trumped up charges and her ex-boyfriend's father is the one who has been pulling the strings from the shadows. Out on bail it's up to Rose to get J.R. Simmons before he gets her. But her hitherto ally, Skeeter Malcolm is on the run, also a victim of J.R.'s machinations, her boyfriend Mason has been sidelined and her former boyfriend Joe is the one who betrayed her.
With little choice, she once again becomes the Lady in Black in the hope of flushing out J.R. and getting the evidence that will save her from a long prison sentence.
I have a lot of love for this series –– I really do.
Book one remains a personal favorite.
I know that a series like this needs to develop. And I love that Rose is fiercely independent, that she is smart and doesn't need saving. The thing I really don't like is the tangled web this series is becoming. There are things in this book, important things, which have been bubbling away for the last few books. I think I could probably deal with it if there was an end-game I could see but honestly have no idea where the series is heading. Adding to that, I didn't get a satisfying resolution and after the cliffhanger I was left with from the last book I needed one.
It's good. I might have given it 5 Stars if the way things were tied up was more to my liking, but I'm left with too many loose ends. I really need them to be tied or snipped.
With little choice, she once again becomes the Lady in Black in the hope of flushing out J.R. and getting the evidence that will save her from a long prison sentence.
I have a lot of love for this series –– I really do.
Book one remains a personal favorite.
I know that a series like this needs to develop. And I love that Rose is fiercely independent, that she is smart and doesn't need saving. The thing I really don't like is the tangled web this series is becoming. There are things in this book, important things, which have been bubbling away for the last few books. I think I could probably deal with it if there was an end-game I could see but honestly have no idea where the series is heading. Adding to that, I didn't get a satisfying resolution and after the cliffhanger I was left with from the last book I needed one.
It's good. I might have given it 5 Stars if the way things were tied up was more to my liking, but I'm left with too many loose ends. I really need them to be tied or snipped.
May 11, 2016
I can't stop the tears from falling. An ending I never saw coming. My heart was ripped out. As much as I hated the ending, this is simply amazing, as is the series. I couldn't get enough and to know I have to wait for six months.... absolute torture. I just wish it hadn't ended the way it did. Now what? I truly hope that we haven't seen the last of Jed and Skeeter. In fact, they should become a regular fixture. God, how I love all of Rose's friends. You can see how much they truly love her. It's easy to understand why Rose continues to live where she does.
I've said it before and I'll say it again. This novel and series deserves ten huge stars. This is one of my all-time favourite series. Honestly, if you haven't picked up this series, what the hell are you waiting for? The author is brilliant when it comes to weaving a well-written and thought-out story that's full of mystery, romance, and a little laughter. It's simply astonishing to see how far Rose has come since meeting her in book one. Rose, a beautiful person inside and out, one who we all think of as our best friend.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 4, 2015
I just want it to be known that the only reason I am not giving this INCREDIBLE book a 5 star rating is because of the ending... I just can't bring myself to give it the 5 it honestly deserves because of the last like 5 pages. That being said.... OH MY STARS AND GARTERS Denise Grover Swank has done it AGAIN!!! How on God's green earth does that woman do this EVERY. SINGLE. TIME. Not only are the characters so loveable/cringe-worthy/frustrating/perfect and so many OTHER descriptive words but the story she writes just flows!
I have a few complaints and by far my biggest one is that has been TOO long since we have heard from Jonah! I miss our good ole' minister, I'm really curious how his dating life with his secretary has been :D And as ALWAYS there is so many loose ends that Denise has NOT tied up yet, and I suspect that is to draw the story out more and let's face it we would ALL be reading 1,000 and a half implications or whatever it would be called lol. I'm really curious as to what is going on with Violet and honestly I have my suspicions about her having a tie to some big powerful man... someones dad... not naming any names *cough* JR Simmons *cough* which I mean come on it wouldn't be THAT much of a long shot for her to be in league with him. HINT HINT the next book is Thirty- Six and a Half MOTIVES! Who has more motives to do something against Rose than Violet? Rose has love (insert elephant), a good business growing (sure it was Violet's dream but Rose brought it to life by financially backing it) Rose is becoming a FREE spirit who doesn't rely on Violet anymore. I can just see JR seducing Violet and getting her to help him.
I'm trying to avoid spoilers so I won't go into details about the elephant in the room, lets call the elephant "Last 5 Pages" All I'm going to say is I LITERALLY felt like my heart was ripped out last night at the end of the book. I mean... I was devastated with how it ended. I really really hope that in Thirty Six and a Half Motives they get it all straightened out and they get their HEA. I need them to get it!
And now that I am finished with this one I might just have to go and re-read the ENTIRE series again.
I have a few complaints and by far my biggest one is that has been TOO long since we have heard from Jonah! I miss our good ole' minister, I'm really curious how his dating life with his secretary has been :D And as ALWAYS there is so many loose ends that Denise has NOT tied up yet, and I suspect that is to draw the story out more and let's face it we would ALL be reading 1,000 and a half implications or whatever it would be called lol. I'm really curious as to what is going on with Violet and honestly I have my suspicions about her having a tie to some big powerful man... someones dad... not naming any names *cough* JR Simmons *cough* which I mean come on it wouldn't be THAT much of a long shot for her to be in league with him. HINT HINT the next book is Thirty- Six and a Half MOTIVES! Who has more motives to do something against Rose than Violet? Rose has love (insert elephant), a good business growing (sure it was Violet's dream but Rose brought it to life by financially backing it) Rose is becoming a FREE spirit who doesn't rely on Violet anymore. I can just see JR seducing Violet and getting her to help him.
I'm trying to avoid spoilers so I won't go into details about the elephant in the room, lets call the elephant "Last 5 Pages" All I'm going to say is I LITERALLY felt like my heart was ripped out last night at the end of the book. I mean... I was devastated with how it ended. I really really hope that in Thirty Six and a Half Motives they get it all straightened out and they get their HEA. I need them to get it!
And now that I am finished with this one I might just have to go and re-read the ENTIRE series again.
November 5, 2015
WOW! Just .... WOW! To be totally honest, I am still speechless and have the worst book hangover in a long time. So much happens in this book, that I am sure I will have to re read it in the next day or so as I just loved it so much!
This book starts up right from where Thirty-four leaves off. Rose is sitting in jail, and is trying to work out how she is going to get out. She has been accused of hiring Daniel Crocker to kill her momma. Everyone knows its not true, but it is amazing how far JR's bribes can go.
As I hate to have spoilers in a review, and there was so many things that happened, I really can not go into any detail without giving something away. So that being said, know that all the characters are back, my favourites being Rose and Mason. Neely Kate, Rose's best friend, has to put aside her emotions over loosing her babies and put her big girl panties on and help Rose with the latest shambles. Bruce Wayne is keeping an eye on the landscaping business whilst Violet is handling the nursery with Anna. Hilary and Kate are still up to their own antics, and Joe is trying his best to make things right.
Denise has given us so much to think about with this book. All the conspiracies and theories, some answered but some are due to be wrapped up in Thirty-six and a Half Motives (due March 2017). I love it, I really did, but it ended so sad for me, that I am still walking around shaking my head over it. I know there are going to be a lot of mixed emotions from everyone over the ending, but my fingers are crossed for Rose, as I know Denise will make sure she is well looked after. I can see Rose and Neely Kate on many adventures together!
Reviewed for JoandIsaLoveBooksBlog.
This book starts up right from where Thirty-four leaves off. Rose is sitting in jail, and is trying to work out how she is going to get out. She has been accused of hiring Daniel Crocker to kill her momma. Everyone knows its not true, but it is amazing how far JR's bribes can go.
As I hate to have spoilers in a review, and there was so many things that happened, I really can not go into any detail without giving something away. So that being said, know that all the characters are back, my favourites being Rose and Mason. Neely Kate, Rose's best friend, has to put aside her emotions over loosing her babies and put her big girl panties on and help Rose with the latest shambles. Bruce Wayne is keeping an eye on the landscaping business whilst Violet is handling the nursery with Anna. Hilary and Kate are still up to their own antics, and Joe is trying his best to make things right.
Denise has given us so much to think about with this book. All the conspiracies and theories, some answered but some are due to be wrapped up in Thirty-six and a Half Motives (due March 2017). I love it, I really did, but it ended so sad for me, that I am still walking around shaking my head over it. I know there are going to be a lot of mixed emotions from everyone over the ending, but my fingers are crossed for Rose, as I know Denise will make sure she is well looked after. I can see Rose and Neely Kate on many adventures together!
Reviewed for JoandIsaLoveBooksBlog.
February 22, 2016
If you have been following Rose's story then you know how much she has grown through this series. Each book has brought Rose to a new point of self discovery and has both encouraged and forced her to take steps needed to give her a fuller understanding of who she is, of her strengths and of her weaknesses and how to be her own person.
As Denise Grover Swank weaves these stores around these amazing, richly developed characters she has created we find ourselves laughing, crying and cheering them on as if they were a part of our real lives, and for the short time we spend with them as we read their story and our imaginations fly, they are.
Thank you Denise for another great adventure in our "friends' life.
OH, and by the way, any of those who haven't been following Rose's story...why not?
As Denise Grover Swank weaves these stores around these amazing, richly developed characters she has created we find ourselves laughing, crying and cheering them on as if they were a part of our real lives, and for the short time we spend with them as we read their story and our imaginations fly, they are.
Thank you Denise for another great adventure in our "friends' life.
OH, and by the way, any of those who haven't been following Rose's story...why not?
November 7, 2019
Broke my heart 😭😭😭😭
November 26, 2015
As with all book series, you run the risk of characters starting to get on your nerves from just making the same stupid decisions time and time again. This series is starting to get there for me. Am I still addicted? Yes. However, I would love to see some of the characters (Rose for instance) start to practice what she preaches. How is it so hard for people to be honest? And am I the only one who finds Rose and Mason just too over-the-top lovey-dovey? Yech.
November 6, 2015
Review
35 and a Half Conspiracies delivers the most mysterious of mystery in the Rose Gardner series.
Who's conspiracy who's?
The fate lies with the Lady in Black but doesn't it also lies within Rose as well.
With a power struggle on the rise and all hell is about to break loose, can Rose protect her identity as the Lady in Black but also the people she loves?
Or will Rose be force to make a decision that may change her life as well the relationships she has with her love ones.
PURRRECT!!!!! I'd seriously have to give this one PURRFECTIONS, I have never been so in gasp in worry about something terribly happening. Thirty-Five push limits of all limits, now we must wait until May to see what follows next.
MEOW . . . MEOW . . . MEOW
When we left 34 Rose was being hauled away to jail . . . Now she must stand trials for the false evidence that J.R. Simmons has placed on her.
Mason is probably facing his worst fears in this book, the thought of losing Rose makes him sick. He felt that he failed to protect her from JR Simmons once JR had let the fabricated evidences surfaced.
For the Team Joe fans; Joe had stepped on too many toes and did too many thy bidden, while later on in the book he surfaced again with the true purpose of protecting Rose. It might be too late.
As far as for Joe's sister Kate, she is enigmatic or mysterious so to speak. I have no idea where her loyalties lies. Is she working alone or is she working for someone else that is not her father?
Rose's LADY IN BLACK identity is at risk, but when Rose is being Frame by the orders of JR Simmons. She REFUSED to stand down. I admire Rose's strength and courage in this book, however I worried that she was going a little too far and not think about the repercussion of the after math.
For Team Mason Fans: Better have a box of Kleenex next to you. Some part are happy, even one got me jumping in cheers but . . . . I'll just leave it at that.
For Neely Kate Fans: She is such a tongue-twister! I did not expect that from her or her other secret of secrets. While Neely Kate knows about Rose being the Lady in Black, but what I did not expect her plan if things started to go down. She's an sneaking spy.
The other thing about that Journal that Rose had in 34 and Joe took it? Well that was rarely brought up but I guess with all the things going on that maybe Denise just couldn't do it all in this book. The other thing that was sparsely left out was Hilary's pregnancy and all the crazy ideas we readers have. there's no confirmation on is it Joe's or is it JR's?
35 and a Half Conspiracies delivers the most mysterious of mystery in the Rose Gardner series.
Who's conspiracy who's?
The fate lies with the Lady in Black but doesn't it also lies within Rose as well.
With a power struggle on the rise and all hell is about to break loose, can Rose protect her identity as the Lady in Black but also the people she loves?
Or will Rose be force to make a decision that may change her life as well the relationships she has with her love ones.
PURRRECT!!!!! I'd seriously have to give this one PURRFECTIONS, I have never been so in gasp in worry about something terribly happening. Thirty-Five push limits of all limits, now we must wait until May to see what follows next.
MEOW . . . MEOW . . . MEOW
When we left 34 Rose was being hauled away to jail . . . Now she must stand trials for the false evidence that J.R. Simmons has placed on her.
Mason is probably facing his worst fears in this book, the thought of losing Rose makes him sick. He felt that he failed to protect her from JR Simmons once JR had let the fabricated evidences surfaced.
For the Team Joe fans; Joe had stepped on too many toes and did too many thy bidden, while later on in the book he surfaced again with the true purpose of protecting Rose. It might be too late.
As far as for Joe's sister Kate, she is enigmatic or mysterious so to speak. I have no idea where her loyalties lies. Is she working alone or is she working for someone else that is not her father?
Rose's LADY IN BLACK identity is at risk, but when Rose is being Frame by the orders of JR Simmons. She REFUSED to stand down. I admire Rose's strength and courage in this book, however I worried that she was going a little too far and not think about the repercussion of the after math.
For Team Mason Fans: Better have a box of Kleenex next to you. Some part are happy, even one got me jumping in cheers but . . . . I'll just leave it at that.
For Neely Kate Fans: She is such a tongue-twister! I did not expect that from her or her other secret of secrets. While Neely Kate knows about Rose being the Lady in Black, but what I did not expect her plan if things started to go down. She's an sneaking spy.
The other thing about that Journal that Rose had in 34 and Joe took it? Well that was rarely brought up but I guess with all the things going on that maybe Denise just couldn't do it all in this book. The other thing that was sparsely left out was Hilary's pregnancy and all the crazy ideas we readers have. there's no confirmation on is it Joe's or is it JR's?
November 9, 2015
Oh. My. I just. I can't even. I need to catch my breath. Ever read a book where your find your body on edge, nerves raw and holding your breath? This book. THIS book! Every emotion. Fear, anxiety, hopefulness, anger....
I honestly had no idea how this was going to turn out. Denise is always amazing. She keeps the book moving along at a swift pace, making you not want to put it down. How is it going to twist and turn?
Now I am left with thinking about it. Why? Because the next one doesn't come out until May!?! MAY! My heart hurts for Rose. And for Mason. And Maeve, Neely Kate.....And even Joe.
I loved this book, as always. I didn't love the ending but it had to end that way. I couldn't see another option.
Well done, Denise. Well done.
I honestly had no idea how this was going to turn out. Denise is always amazing. She keeps the book moving along at a swift pace, making you not want to put it down. How is it going to twist and turn?
Now I am left with thinking about it. Why? Because the next one doesn't come out until May!?! MAY! My heart hurts for Rose. And for Mason. And Maeve, Neely Kate.....And even Joe.
I loved this book, as always. I didn't love the ending but it had to end that way. I couldn't see another option.
Well done, Denise. Well done.
May 19, 2016
Absolutely pitch perfect, start to end!!
March 13, 2018
Secrets are revealed and consequences rendered in this exciting addition to the "Rose Gardner Series"... the pieces of a very complex and complicated puzzle begin to fall into place connecting the lives of so many, with Rose as the epicenter to this swirling tornado... with so much at stake, Rose makes the tough choices that will bring about the downfall of a powerful enemy, but at what cost?... Rose sacrifices her own peace and happiness for the well being of her family and friends; we have watched this character evolve from the first novel as a naïve, shy young girl into a determined, brave woman, who stands against an evil that has manipulated her life and the lives of her family and friends for many years... This story continues to shock me and pull on my heartstrings, uncertain as to how it will all end, but eagerly awaiting the finale...5 Incredible Stars:)
November 4, 2015
Uh! Found myself rendered speechless for quite a while after reading the new Rose Gardner book. I just didn't think it was possible for an on going series to get even better! Denise has outdid herself AGAIN but her fans will know all too well that this is what Denise does best. I think this quite possibly has been the best book yet, I was absolutely hooked! Looking forward to May for the next one.
Five effortless stars for the Queen of mystery fiction.
Five effortless stars for the Queen of mystery fiction.
August 12, 2017
I loved all books of this series, and each one was my favorite, this one is no exception! I couldn't dream or imagine what comes in this book, but that's what Denise does the best - if you think you figure something out, she turns it upside down. I love love love this! OMG what a book! How can you say something new when all I know and feel is I'm obsessed with this series and keep saying Wow! Marvellous Book of Brilliant series!
December 1, 2022
Rose's making decisions on her own and taking risks is a byproduct of her upbringing. The fact that neither Mason or Joe can understand that and keep tearing her hart out makes neither of them worthy of her in my book. I think they are both too hard on her and have put her in some really messed up situations. And to get mad at her like they do when she doesn't conform to them, is awful. I haven't liked how Joe has wanted to put her in a box and keep her the shy introverted woman he first met. Nor have I liked how Mason needs to have her tell him every aspect of her life and come to him and have him save her when she has an issue. They don't seem to want to give her wings to be who she is.
I'm hoping Rose eventually will end up with someone who will respect who she is and give her the freedom to grow into whomever she's meant to be.
I'm hoping Rose eventually will end up with someone who will respect who she is and give her the freedom to grow into whomever she's meant to be.
December 3, 2022
Darkness and Dire Consequences
This is the darkest of these stories so far. Rose is on bail, Mason is out of his job, and Joe has turned on both of them. Can the Lady in Black help?
There is still humour in this book, but mostly the characters are dealing with tense and frightening situations. It is a mark of the author's skill that she has switched up the nature of her tale without spoiling the enjoyment and convincing storytelling. I am anxious for the next book.
This is the darkest of these stories so far. Rose is on bail, Mason is out of his job, and Joe has turned on both of them. Can the Lady in Black help?
There is still humour in this book, but mostly the characters are dealing with tense and frightening situations. It is a mark of the author's skill that she has switched up the nature of her tale without spoiling the enjoyment and convincing storytelling. I am anxious for the next book.
June 9, 2018
Couldn’t put it down!
Started reading this immediately after finishing the earlier books in the series. Rose grows so much through each book, I’m always eager to see what she’ll do next!
Started reading this immediately after finishing the earlier books in the series. Rose grows so much through each book, I’m always eager to see what she’ll do next!
May 3, 2025
WOWWWWWW.
June 11, 2019
The world is not black and white - the world is filled with gray. Rose instinctively follows her heart and finds herself creating friendships with "bad guys". There are some reviews who are very upset with this - personally I totally get it. People, just like Denise's characters, are not one dimensional. I am thankful for this change in the Rose books. How boring would it be to read about a woman who always did everything right and only associated with "good" people and looked down on those who were less? Rose sees that there is good in everyone and I love where Denise is taking this story!
November 7, 2015
Best in the series yet! I hate being left on the edge of my seat but I think Denise is going to make it worth my while.
The Lady in Black has definitely got herself in quite the pickle. Funny how Rose ends up as everyone's protector even though she keep hearing how they are doing so much to protect her.
I thought I would be happier and/or sadder in certain parts of the book but honestly, I realized while reading how much I have grown to love Rose. I find myself mimicking her take on certain people...for instance, as mad as I am at Joe, I still have a love for him and desperately want him happy. I'm still stuck with Mason though. I don't "feel" the love from Rose in their relationship. It is the type of ideal perfection but Rose isn't perfect.
I will be patiently waiting for the next book! And I'll be waiting for the next shoe to fall. :) I may have to read this one over again because there is so much information, I don't want to miss out on any clues!!
Denise- fantastic!!! I loved reading and I find joy in your writing technique. You are articulate and leave your reader deeply moved by your words. Thank you!!
The Lady in Black has definitely got herself in quite the pickle. Funny how Rose ends up as everyone's protector even though she keep hearing how they are doing so much to protect her.
I thought I would be happier and/or sadder in certain parts of the book but honestly, I realized while reading how much I have grown to love Rose. I find myself mimicking her take on certain people...for instance, as mad as I am at Joe, I still have a love for him and desperately want him happy. I'm still stuck with Mason though. I don't "feel" the love from Rose in their relationship. It is the type of ideal perfection but Rose isn't perfect.
I will be patiently waiting for the next book! And I'll be waiting for the next shoe to fall. :) I may have to read this one over again because there is so much information, I don't want to miss out on any clues!!
Denise- fantastic!!! I loved reading and I find joy in your writing technique. You are articulate and leave your reader deeply moved by your words. Thank you!!
June 4, 2016
Crazy good story. A nice romance to go with the drama, suspense, comedy, action packed craziness. Must read series in order for the characters. This is a fun series to read, makes me laugh out loud & can't wait to read the next book. . More interesting turns of events with everyone involved. Makes you laugh out loud in a lot of areas. Love this series.
Book 8
Another great book with a lot of twists n turns n who is trying to kill Rose & Mason. How many times can Rose run into trouble & get out of it with her own wits. . . .Love how she and Neely Kate work together and don't fight. Skeeter n Jed work with Rose to try and figure out what and who is trying to take over Fenton County. . . . do they solve it. Read the book to find out. Now have to wait for the library to get book 9. :-)
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If you are looking for other great suspense/action/Comedy/romance books check out my other reviews. Also Recommend this series and the following:
> Rose Gardner Mystery Series by Denise Grover Swank
> Body Movers Series by Stephanie Bond
> Rock Chick Series by Kristen Ashley
> Bobbie Faye's Series by Toni McGee Causey
> Stephanie Plum Series by Janet Evanovich
Book 8
Another great book with a lot of twists n turns n who is trying to kill Rose & Mason. How many times can Rose run into trouble & get out of it with her own wits. . . .Love how she and Neely Kate work together and don't fight. Skeeter n Jed work with Rose to try and figure out what and who is trying to take over Fenton County. . . . do they solve it. Read the book to find out. Now have to wait for the library to get book 9. :-)
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If you are looking for other great suspense/action/Comedy/romance books check out my other reviews. Also Recommend this series and the following:
> Rose Gardner Mystery Series by Denise Grover Swank
> Body Movers Series by Stephanie Bond
> Rock Chick Series by Kristen Ashley
> Bobbie Faye's Series by Toni McGee Causey
> Stephanie Plum Series by Janet Evanovich
August 30, 2016
I didn't want to write this review. I didn't want to write this review so much so that even though I read the book so long ago, I am just now writing the review. I can't believe what I just read. I really and truly don't want to believe any of it. I have loved Rose Gardner from day one and I am in awe of how much growth, strength, and maturity she has shown over these various books. I know she isn't a real person but I feel like she is and I would love to be friends with her. She is a strong person and has overcome so much. No matter what she encounters she seems to find a way to persevere with the help of her friends.
There is only one book left in this installment of Rose Gardner's life. I am glad that the whole thing is not ending as I would feel hollow inside and a little piece of me would die. Go get book 1 as it is free on all platforms. You won't regret it.
There is only one book left in this installment of Rose Gardner's life. I am glad that the whole thing is not ending as I would feel hollow inside and a little piece of me would die. Go get book 1 as it is free on all platforms. You won't regret it.
March 3, 2020
OMG!!! I have a major book hangover and I'm afraid it's going to last for days, maybe even until May when the next book is released. Another awesome, fan-freaking-tastic book!!
I LOVE how Rose has grown and evolved into such a strong, independent woman. She stands up for herself and doesn't take crap from anyone anymore. And she doesn't rely on the men in her life save her, but figures out how to do it herself. Albeit, sometimes she should think before she jumps into some of the situations she gets herself into. But that is what makes her such a great character and this series so AWESOME!!
Everyone should read this series. Denise is a fantastic author who will have you hooked and wanting more.
I LOVE how Rose has grown and evolved into such a strong, independent woman. She stands up for herself and doesn't take crap from anyone anymore. And she doesn't rely on the men in her life save her, but figures out how to do it herself. Albeit, sometimes she should think before she jumps into some of the situations she gets herself into. But that is what makes her such a great character and this series so AWESOME!!
Everyone should read this series. Denise is a fantastic author who will have you hooked and wanting more.
November 12, 2016
I have loved all the books in this series and this one was no exception! It has been roughly a year since I read the last installment but I got straight back into the story right from the first page. This book is jam packed with excitement and questions to be answered, and at the end of the book there are many that still need answering. I can't wait to read the next in the series, but I almost don't want the series to end! I love these characters and recommend this series to anyone!
December 2, 2015
Outstandingly awesome. I adore this series and the book was just right! I have been so anxious to get this book and it was as good as I expected. Every book of the series has been great and has added to my addiction to the series. This one might top them all! I can't say anything specific for fear of including a spoiler!
February 5, 2016
OMG! Another utterly brilliant book in this series by Denise Grover Swank. I love every one of the characters in these books, except JR and Hilary who I love to hate!
I'm not sure I can wait for May for the final installment and hate that it'll be the last one! I may just have to read them over!
I'm not sure I can wait for May for the final installment and hate that it'll be the last one! I may just have to read them over!
November 8, 2015
Ack!!! This is killing me! I am wishing my life away being all impatient for the next book!
November 4, 2015
Oh my goodness!!! Could not put it down as usual with Rose and all her shenanigans!! Love it!!
December 13, 2015
I love her books
I bought this book and finished it in one day. I really enjoy the Rose Gardner mysteries, can't wait until #9 comes out.
I bought this book and finished it in one day. I really enjoy the Rose Gardner mysteries, can't wait until #9 comes out.
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