What do you think?
Rate this book
Seekers Mystery #1
Double Mayhem
Librarian Note: Alternate Cover Edition for ISBN-10: 148029148X / ISBN-13: 9781480291485.
This action thriller romance introduces Doris Watson as a unique heroine. She is not a super spy, she is not a trained assassin, she is someone real and much more lethal, a smart woman pushed into a corner. They say for every person in the world there is a twin. For Doris Watson, that simple wisdom becomes a nightmare reality that threatens her and the ones she’s come to love. An ex-military engineer who leads a quiet life as an appliance designer, she is recruited to perform one uncomplicated task: take a handoff of secret plans from a Chinese agent who believes she is someone else. She accepts the assignment and the only person she can blame is herself. She opened the door. She said yes. Her lonely existence is shattered as headstrong men cross her path. Dangerous men with dangerous needs. Suddenly embroiled in mob killings, espionage, and police investigations, she has become a billion-dollar target of sadistic crooks, the FBI, the NSA, and her psychotic look-alike. It is up to her to protect herself and the mysterious psychic child who has been thrust into her life. No one is who they appear to be. No one is telling the truth, because the truth can make you dead. Forced to use all her training and wits, she must find a way to survive. Forced to uncover the secrets of her childhood, she must face a new reality. Some days you just shouldn’t answer the door.
Mystery, intriguing subplots, humor, heartwarming moments and a cast of highly memorable characters combine with a touch of the paranormal to weave a tapestry of memorable proportions in this contemporary romance adventure, a jewel of romantic suspense.
This action thriller romance introduces Doris Watson as a unique heroine. She is not a super spy, she is not a trained assassin, she is someone real and much more lethal, a smart woman pushed into a corner. They say for every person in the world there is a twin. For Doris Watson, that simple wisdom becomes a nightmare reality that threatens her and the ones she’s come to love. An ex-military engineer who leads a quiet life as an appliance designer, she is recruited to perform one uncomplicated task: take a handoff of secret plans from a Chinese agent who believes she is someone else. She accepts the assignment and the only person she can blame is herself. She opened the door. She said yes. Her lonely existence is shattered as headstrong men cross her path. Dangerous men with dangerous needs. Suddenly embroiled in mob killings, espionage, and police investigations, she has become a billion-dollar target of sadistic crooks, the FBI, the NSA, and her psychotic look-alike. It is up to her to protect herself and the mysterious psychic child who has been thrust into her life. No one is who they appear to be. No one is telling the truth, because the truth can make you dead. Forced to use all her training and wits, she must find a way to survive. Forced to uncover the secrets of her childhood, she must face a new reality. Some days you just shouldn’t answer the door.
Mystery, intriguing subplots, humor, heartwarming moments and a cast of highly memorable characters combine with a touch of the paranormal to weave a tapestry of memorable proportions in this contemporary romance adventure, a jewel of romantic suspense.
422 pages, Paperback
First published November 10, 2012
34 people are currently reading
1842 people want to read
About the author
Sam Berretti
7 books47 followersSam Berretti was born and raised in the High Plains city of Lubbock, Texas. Cotton was king and oil wells and cattle were always close by. The land was as flat as his mother’s tattered ironing board and Spring was always ushered in with dust storms, tumble weeds and tornadoes. Sam moved to Florida to attend the University of Florida, met a woman who he says was gracious enough to allow him to marry her and raised two amazing children. Sam is an avid naturalist and photographer as well as an author. Although writing started at an early age and took many forms, mystery fiction has always been a favorite. Over the last decade, at the urging of his wife, he has ventured into writing romance mysteries, usually with a touch of the paranormal. "Double Mayhem" is his first book (Createspace, Kindle, Smashwords). Available in Ebook and paperback from a variety of outlets.
He has now added a second book, "The Black Rose," available through Amazon. Go to the official author website, www.SamBerretti.com, which provides additional information and links to book sellers.
He has now added a second book, "The Black Rose," available through Amazon. Go to the official author website, www.SamBerretti.com, which provides additional information and links to book sellers.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
August 1, 2013
I was lucky enough to win a copy of Double Mayhem in a goodreads giveaway. 10 pages in and this book was already action packed! I was extremely interested in this book after reading the synopsis because I had just finished the Orphan Black tv-series (aka the "clone club") which I absolutely loved, so I had a good feeling about this book.
Doris Watson goes out on a blind date, and everything changes for her in an instant. Her life as an engineer pales in comparison to the job that lies ahead of her. She finds that she uncannily resembles Sabrina, a rogue agent, and she is asked to impersonate her to secure an important exchange with the Chinese before the information falls into the wrong hands. We meet a great group of kick butt characters (Della and Sam in particular) who whip her into shape and have her back in the operation. As well as Randal Mariso, an officer who interests Doris. They are not always forthcoming with information though, which leads the reader to wonder who is truly trustworthy. Luckily, Doris is not a damsel in distress type of woman, she is ex-military and is one tough cookie. I must not forget about Linda, a very unique little girl with psychic abilities. Doris feels an immediate connection to the child. She has suppressed her own abilities of seeing premonitions in her dreams like Linda, and she wants to protect her as best she can. (I can't wait to see how Linda's storyline pans out).
There are several scenes in the book which took me by surprise, I would go into detail but that would ruin it :) I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am greatly looking forward to the new adventures that undoubtedly lie ahead for Doris.
Doris Watson goes out on a blind date, and everything changes for her in an instant. Her life as an engineer pales in comparison to the job that lies ahead of her. She finds that she uncannily resembles Sabrina, a rogue agent, and she is asked to impersonate her to secure an important exchange with the Chinese before the information falls into the wrong hands. We meet a great group of kick butt characters (Della and Sam in particular) who whip her into shape and have her back in the operation. As well as Randal Mariso, an officer who interests Doris. They are not always forthcoming with information though, which leads the reader to wonder who is truly trustworthy. Luckily, Doris is not a damsel in distress type of woman, she is ex-military and is one tough cookie. I must not forget about Linda, a very unique little girl with psychic abilities. Doris feels an immediate connection to the child. She has suppressed her own abilities of seeing premonitions in her dreams like Linda, and she wants to protect her as best she can. (I can't wait to see how Linda's storyline pans out).
There are several scenes in the book which took me by surprise, I would go into detail but that would ruin it :) I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am greatly looking forward to the new adventures that undoubtedly lie ahead for Doris.
April 8, 2018
Doris Watson is an engineer, a single woman living with her cat. She likes things well ordered and predictable. She isn’t thrilled at the thought of a blind date, but a coworker has maneuvered her into one. A potentially pleasant evening takes a turn when two men, a woman and a young girl enter the restaurant. In a reflexive action, Doris shoots and kills the man who just shot and killed the woman with the child. This brings Detective Randal Mariso and Linda, the too old for her age girl who was with the woman, into Doris’ life. She’s drawn to the girl, who is being hunted by the mob, and decides to help her anyway she can.
Della Jamay Charboneau also likes things well ordered and predictable, but she is no engineer and doesn’t have a cat. She does have an arsenal. She’s a free agent who works for a company that sometimes contracts to the NSA.
Doris is still swirling from the chaos in the aftermath of the shooting when Della and the mysterious Sam approach her. She is an almost exact double of a woman who was to receive a package from a Chinese scientist. Della and Sam are vague as they explain that the woman is unavailable for the mission and convince Doris to stand in for her. It’s a safe and simple job for The Government. Just stand in a crowd and let somebody slip a bag into her hand. Of course things are not that simple and Doris finds herself juggling two crises.
A male author writing from a female perspective has to build a believable feminine character. I know, from personal experience, how difficult that task can be. Berretti is only partially successful in that endeavor. I felt a little too much male attitude in Doris.
It is obvious Berretti has extensively researched the weapons his characters use, but it seems to be an academic knowledge. He consistently refers to magazines as clips and semiautomatic rifles as assault rifles. Additionally he makes the the laymen mistake of having a silencer (They are technically suppressors.) reduce the report of the firearm to a “pop” Last of all, he arms the bad guys with Sig Sauer P522s. (My copy actually says P5222. I assume that was a typo.) The P522 is a scary looking gun that shoots the diminutive .22 long rifle cartridge. You can kill a human with a .22 log rifle, but it’s far from a sure thing. The P522 is not a gun people like this would select.
In the early chapters, I was thinking about a two-and-a-half to three star rating. But as I continued to read, Berretti pulled me into the intrigue. Even with what I perceive as flaws, the story is interesting and exciting. It’s continues to get better as you get closer to the end. I absolutely loved the epilogue. This is a potentially five star plot. If Berretti can make his female characters and weapons more believable, he will be there.
I recommend this book and I will be reading “Good Girl Gone,” book two in the series.
Della Jamay Charboneau also likes things well ordered and predictable, but she is no engineer and doesn’t have a cat. She does have an arsenal. She’s a free agent who works for a company that sometimes contracts to the NSA.
Doris is still swirling from the chaos in the aftermath of the shooting when Della and the mysterious Sam approach her. She is an almost exact double of a woman who was to receive a package from a Chinese scientist. Della and Sam are vague as they explain that the woman is unavailable for the mission and convince Doris to stand in for her. It’s a safe and simple job for The Government. Just stand in a crowd and let somebody slip a bag into her hand. Of course things are not that simple and Doris finds herself juggling two crises.
A male author writing from a female perspective has to build a believable feminine character. I know, from personal experience, how difficult that task can be. Berretti is only partially successful in that endeavor. I felt a little too much male attitude in Doris.
It is obvious Berretti has extensively researched the weapons his characters use, but it seems to be an academic knowledge. He consistently refers to magazines as clips and semiautomatic rifles as assault rifles. Additionally he makes the the laymen mistake of having a silencer (They are technically suppressors.) reduce the report of the firearm to a “pop” Last of all, he arms the bad guys with Sig Sauer P522s. (My copy actually says P5222. I assume that was a typo.) The P522 is a scary looking gun that shoots the diminutive .22 long rifle cartridge. You can kill a human with a .22 log rifle, but it’s far from a sure thing. The P522 is not a gun people like this would select.
In the early chapters, I was thinking about a two-and-a-half to three star rating. But as I continued to read, Berretti pulled me into the intrigue. Even with what I perceive as flaws, the story is interesting and exciting. It’s continues to get better as you get closer to the end. I absolutely loved the epilogue. This is a potentially five star plot. If Berretti can make his female characters and weapons more believable, he will be there.
I recommend this book and I will be reading “Good Girl Gone,” book two in the series.
March 12, 2017
I really enjoyed this mayhem piece of work. The heroine was a tad bit clutzy. I received this book for free and I voluntarily chose to review it. I've given it a 4.5* rating. This heroine, Doris, is a brainy nerd type but quite the innocent on another level. Between it all, she would have these flashes of cleverness that was quite fun to see unfold. I couldn't help but fall in love with her. But because of the violence and sexual content, not for the under 18 readers. Looking forward to the next book in this series.
February 16, 2020
This book felt like it was written by two different people. Parts of it were excellent. The dialogue flowed, the action moved at a good pace, characters' actions were reasonable and believable, and the book was a good read.
Other parts of the book, the dialogue was choppy, the flow of the narrative was interrupted by randomly placed descriptions or backstories, and the characters were behaving like sex-starved teenagers.
Two very different experiences.
I'll will likely try the second book to see if some of these issues were caused by this being the first in the series.
Other parts of the book, the dialogue was choppy, the flow of the narrative was interrupted by randomly placed descriptions or backstories, and the characters were behaving like sex-starved teenagers.
Two very different experiences.
I'll will likely try the second book to see if some of these issues were caused by this being the first in the series.
May 2, 2024
I had gotten this one free on Kindle at some point and finally got to reading it. I'm glad I did! It had a lot of interesting characters, decent mystery and spy aspects, etc. I will say that the changing of points of view mid-page threw me off sometimes. No page break or anything just the next paragraph would be from the point of view of another character. That's unusual, but I got used to it. I've already downloaded the next one in the series and am looking forward to starting it tonight!
May 31, 2017
Wow. Just... wow. Excellent "fish-out-of-water" thriller with so many twists and turns I could not put it down. I will be reading the next book in this series. Highly recommend. But just remember... no none is who they claim/seem to be. I received this book from eBook Discovery. This is my honest review, which I voluntarily post here.
September 20, 2018
Spy's, Terrorists and Mobsters, Oh My
A great read if you like ever changing directions the characters take. The story never let's you get bored and you keep hoping Doris gets her man. I highly recommend this book to those who love a mystery with spy's and comedy!
A great read if you like ever changing directions the characters take. The story never let's you get bored and you keep hoping Doris gets her man. I highly recommend this book to those who love a mystery with spy's and comedy!
October 24, 2019
With vivid characters and much mayhem, this story careens along with twists and turns like a racecar in Monte Carlo. A super fun ride! Buckle up and enjoy! The sequel is just as good too, so get set to binge!
September 19, 2024
Double Mayhem
This was an exciting and very entertaining book. It was scary, fast paced and a little mystifying with a little romance. I will look forward to reading the next book.
This was an exciting and very entertaining book. It was scary, fast paced and a little mystifying with a little romance. I will look forward to reading the next book.
March 5, 2025
I really enjoyed this book! Full of action which kept me engaged from the start. I loved that Doris was not only badass but also super smart. I am looking forward to reading the next book to see where it takes Doris and Della!
October 6, 2022
A real attention grabber!
Really enjoyed the characters, have to admit there were a few I know what's coming next, but I did enjoy the whole story!
Hope the CIA recruits Doris!
Really enjoyed the characters, have to admit there were a few I know what's coming next, but I did enjoy the whole story!
Hope the CIA recruits Doris!
August 31, 2013
STACI' T'S REVIEW
Double Mayhem: A Seekers Mystery by Sam Berretti is a mystery novel that is part thriller, part suspense, and part romance, with just a hint of the supernatural sprinkled in. Doris Watson, an engineer with former military training, witnesses an attack in a restaurant and saves a little girl’s life. From there, circumstances spiral out of control when she says “yes” to one question posed to her—“Will you fill in for your doppelganger and help your government?”—and her boring life is turned upside down…forever. Two seemingly unrelated scenarios merge into one massive adrenaline-filled event that she may not manage to live through.
This novel focuses on two separate mysteries. The first is the doppelganger issue, which sends Watson into the spy world. Gadgets, guns, misdirection, and lies take her from a simple bag drop into a life-and-death situation. There’s also a little matter of the chemistry brewing between her and the mysterious man running the op. Compounding problems is the little girl Watson saved in the restaurant—and the detective who’s protecting her from hit men. Watson and the girl instantly bond, and she has a strong connection with the cop, too. But are any of the people she’s helping who they claim to be?
This novel has a complex, intricate plot. There are several players to keep track of, not to mention many of them go by different names at different times. The most difficult part of the novel is the beginning; readers are bounced from one point of view to another in a very short time, and it’s hard to know who the main character is, let alone bond with her. There are other instances in the book where the author switches point of view without any kind of clue to the reader. If you don’t mind putting the effort in to keep track of the characters, then this is a book you’ll enjoy. The pace is solid, the plot is interesting, and the characters are wonderfully multifaceted.
GARREN'S REVIEW
1 STAR
Double Mayhem by Sam Berretti was listed as a mystery, and I have to say it remained one throughout the entire novel. There’s quite a confusing mash-up of wanna-be romance, paranormal, Noir and espionage/thriller, without sufficient depth or adequate writing to back it up.
Doris Watson is a twenty-seven year old former Marine. She left the Corps and became an engineer who designs appliances. I really wanted to like Doris. I really wanted to learn why she is the way she is, but all I got were snippets of information stuffed in place to carry the action in the current scene. Doris is an amalgam of many things but you never get deep enough to understand or empathize with her. And that’s too bad, because she could be an amazing, kick-ass female protagonist with a heavy agenda that would carry the lengthier bits of detail and dialogue.
Doris is accompanied by a host of other characters, some believable, some likeable, some not. Again, none of the characters are sufficiently detailed for you to invest in, emotionally. The one character I did find myself rooting for is Della Jamay Charboneau, but her mere presence highlights another huge problem: the characters are so stereo-typed, it was hard to see past the type-casting. And if the reader doesn’t care about the characters, why would they continue reading?
The Point of View was jumpy and inconsistent, the dialogue was stilted and the Pop-culture references were seriously dated, which added to the Noir flavor, but not consistently enough to allow you to sink in and enjoy yourself. There were endless monologues and dialogues that seemed to have no purpose other than to fill the page, including one paragraph that extended over two pages. And then there was the zip-tie incident.
It’s unlikely, in this day and age, that anyone over the age of eight is unfamiliar with a zip-tie, yet the author felt it necessary to take an entire paragraph and explain, in minute detail, what a zip-tie is and how it is used.
By this point, I felt like I was reading this book as punishment. Maybe it’s because I’m a writer. Maybe I read too many classics as a kid. Maybe I’m just plain mean, but it was a chore to get to the end of this book.
It’s a shame. The premise had me excited. If the author had stuck to his main theme, kept the hocus-pocus (crows used to delay an agent so she spots the bad guys going in?) and worked on refining the basic instruments of prose, it would be a much more enjoyable read. I believe he could have done an amazing job writing this as Noir, as his dialogue and the overall flavor of the book really felt like a good fit for the genre. As it is, and because there were so many basic, structural issues, I can barely manage a 1 on the Masq Scale.
Double Mayhem: A Seekers Mystery by Sam Berretti is a mystery novel that is part thriller, part suspense, and part romance, with just a hint of the supernatural sprinkled in. Doris Watson, an engineer with former military training, witnesses an attack in a restaurant and saves a little girl’s life. From there, circumstances spiral out of control when she says “yes” to one question posed to her—“Will you fill in for your doppelganger and help your government?”—and her boring life is turned upside down…forever. Two seemingly unrelated scenarios merge into one massive adrenaline-filled event that she may not manage to live through.
This novel focuses on two separate mysteries. The first is the doppelganger issue, which sends Watson into the spy world. Gadgets, guns, misdirection, and lies take her from a simple bag drop into a life-and-death situation. There’s also a little matter of the chemistry brewing between her and the mysterious man running the op. Compounding problems is the little girl Watson saved in the restaurant—and the detective who’s protecting her from hit men. Watson and the girl instantly bond, and she has a strong connection with the cop, too. But are any of the people she’s helping who they claim to be?
This novel has a complex, intricate plot. There are several players to keep track of, not to mention many of them go by different names at different times. The most difficult part of the novel is the beginning; readers are bounced from one point of view to another in a very short time, and it’s hard to know who the main character is, let alone bond with her. There are other instances in the book where the author switches point of view without any kind of clue to the reader. If you don’t mind putting the effort in to keep track of the characters, then this is a book you’ll enjoy. The pace is solid, the plot is interesting, and the characters are wonderfully multifaceted.
GARREN'S REVIEW
1 STAR
Double Mayhem by Sam Berretti was listed as a mystery, and I have to say it remained one throughout the entire novel. There’s quite a confusing mash-up of wanna-be romance, paranormal, Noir and espionage/thriller, without sufficient depth or adequate writing to back it up.
Doris Watson is a twenty-seven year old former Marine. She left the Corps and became an engineer who designs appliances. I really wanted to like Doris. I really wanted to learn why she is the way she is, but all I got were snippets of information stuffed in place to carry the action in the current scene. Doris is an amalgam of many things but you never get deep enough to understand or empathize with her. And that’s too bad, because she could be an amazing, kick-ass female protagonist with a heavy agenda that would carry the lengthier bits of detail and dialogue.
Doris is accompanied by a host of other characters, some believable, some likeable, some not. Again, none of the characters are sufficiently detailed for you to invest in, emotionally. The one character I did find myself rooting for is Della Jamay Charboneau, but her mere presence highlights another huge problem: the characters are so stereo-typed, it was hard to see past the type-casting. And if the reader doesn’t care about the characters, why would they continue reading?
The Point of View was jumpy and inconsistent, the dialogue was stilted and the Pop-culture references were seriously dated, which added to the Noir flavor, but not consistently enough to allow you to sink in and enjoy yourself. There were endless monologues and dialogues that seemed to have no purpose other than to fill the page, including one paragraph that extended over two pages. And then there was the zip-tie incident.
It’s unlikely, in this day and age, that anyone over the age of eight is unfamiliar with a zip-tie, yet the author felt it necessary to take an entire paragraph and explain, in minute detail, what a zip-tie is and how it is used.
By this point, I felt like I was reading this book as punishment. Maybe it’s because I’m a writer. Maybe I read too many classics as a kid. Maybe I’m just plain mean, but it was a chore to get to the end of this book.
It’s a shame. The premise had me excited. If the author had stuck to his main theme, kept the hocus-pocus (crows used to delay an agent so she spots the bad guys going in?) and worked on refining the basic instruments of prose, it would be a much more enjoyable read. I believe he could have done an amazing job writing this as Noir, as his dialogue and the overall flavor of the book really felt like a good fit for the genre. As it is, and because there were so many basic, structural issues, I can barely manage a 1 on the Masq Scale.
December 4, 2013
Disclaimer: I was sent a free copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Doris Watson thought that her life was boring and lonely. But that would change one day while having a blind date at a restaurant. All of a sudden, her life changes drastically when she is recruited by an organisation to impersonate another woman, a spy, who has an uncanny resemblance with her. But things will get difficult and, apart from her very dangerous mission, she will have to deal with a strange girl and a man who have appeared in her life and don't wish to disappear. Will she be able to survive to her mission, understand what's going on with all those Mafia members, FBI agents, and even the NSA wanting to get a hold of her, and get the life that she wants, all at the same time?
This book was an entertaining read, although the first quarter of the book was difficult to read, it was messy, and I really didn't know what was going on until I re-read certain parts a couple of times. Another thing that bothered me to no end was the many typos, editorial mistakes, and even missing words. Even a character was named wrongly in one scene of the book. This book would have used one more edit and proofread, that's for sure.
I don't know why, but while I was reading the book, and even I knew it was set in this century, I had a feeling that the action was taking place during the 1950s. It has that feel of the thriller books written at that time and it goes really well with the kind of story being developed before our eyes.
The characters are well developed and you can find a whole range of different characters. Written by a man but using the point of view of a woman, I think the author got it right, although some things she said or thought made me scream as a feminist. Just a couple of things, really. I really liked the character of Della Jamay, but you have to read the book to know why; I won't spoil anything for you.
So, overall, it was a good story, but if it gets another round of edits it would be superb.
Doris Watson thought that her life was boring and lonely. But that would change one day while having a blind date at a restaurant. All of a sudden, her life changes drastically when she is recruited by an organisation to impersonate another woman, a spy, who has an uncanny resemblance with her. But things will get difficult and, apart from her very dangerous mission, she will have to deal with a strange girl and a man who have appeared in her life and don't wish to disappear. Will she be able to survive to her mission, understand what's going on with all those Mafia members, FBI agents, and even the NSA wanting to get a hold of her, and get the life that she wants, all at the same time?
This book was an entertaining read, although the first quarter of the book was difficult to read, it was messy, and I really didn't know what was going on until I re-read certain parts a couple of times. Another thing that bothered me to no end was the many typos, editorial mistakes, and even missing words. Even a character was named wrongly in one scene of the book. This book would have used one more edit and proofread, that's for sure.
I don't know why, but while I was reading the book, and even I knew it was set in this century, I had a feeling that the action was taking place during the 1950s. It has that feel of the thriller books written at that time and it goes really well with the kind of story being developed before our eyes.
The characters are well developed and you can find a whole range of different characters. Written by a man but using the point of view of a woman, I think the author got it right, although some things she said or thought made me scream as a feminist. Just a couple of things, really. I really liked the character of Della Jamay, but you have to read the book to know why; I won't spoil anything for you.
So, overall, it was a good story, but if it gets another round of edits it would be superb.
January 6, 2014
**I received a free copy from the author via a Goodreads giveaway**
In Double Mayhem, you are introduced to a host of interesting and widely different characters. The main heroine Doris, is an ordinary ex-military appliance engineer. She begins her adventure with a blind date that goes horribly wrong and is pulled into two separate cases as a result. One involving the police, local mob and a psychic little girl. The other involving a host of federal agencies, doppelgangers and a secret. She attempts to assist with both, all the while trying to stay alive.
I was on the edge between liking and being annoyed with Doris. She seemed boring and easily flustered at times and then would switch into being smart and badass. For being ex-military I would have expected her to freak out less and be more in control. On top of it all her instantaneous infatuations with the men she encountered bothered me. She felt a spark with one, thought about him lovingly but was eyeing another. Pick and choose and stay faithful to that. Another complaint was her repeated use of the phrase, "Oh my...oh my God." It grated on my nerves. Her phrases were over used and seemed awkward.
I have no complaints about the other characters though except that I would have liked a tad bit more of background information to round them off and make their actions and beliefs more understandable. They were all unique, funny, kick ass, creepy, or sarcastic. On a special note, Della Jamay! Really, she is beyond words all I can say is I adore her and hope she is going to make an appearance in any future books.
I enjoyed that both cases ended up converging into one at the end it made it more interesting but a bit more information on what and who was involved and why, would have cleared up some things.
Despite my complaints, they are actually minor things, I really enjoyed this book. It was action packed, thrilling, and at times very funny. I am excited to read more about Doris and what other dangerous adventures may lie in her future.
In Double Mayhem, you are introduced to a host of interesting and widely different characters. The main heroine Doris, is an ordinary ex-military appliance engineer. She begins her adventure with a blind date that goes horribly wrong and is pulled into two separate cases as a result. One involving the police, local mob and a psychic little girl. The other involving a host of federal agencies, doppelgangers and a secret. She attempts to assist with both, all the while trying to stay alive.
I was on the edge between liking and being annoyed with Doris. She seemed boring and easily flustered at times and then would switch into being smart and badass. For being ex-military I would have expected her to freak out less and be more in control. On top of it all her instantaneous infatuations with the men she encountered bothered me. She felt a spark with one, thought about him lovingly but was eyeing another. Pick and choose and stay faithful to that. Another complaint was her repeated use of the phrase, "Oh my...oh my God." It grated on my nerves. Her phrases were over used and seemed awkward.
I have no complaints about the other characters though except that I would have liked a tad bit more of background information to round them off and make their actions and beliefs more understandable. They were all unique, funny, kick ass, creepy, or sarcastic. On a special note, Della Jamay! Really, she is beyond words all I can say is I adore her and hope she is going to make an appearance in any future books.
I enjoyed that both cases ended up converging into one at the end it made it more interesting but a bit more information on what and who was involved and why, would have cleared up some things.
Despite my complaints, they are actually minor things, I really enjoyed this book. It was action packed, thrilling, and at times very funny. I am excited to read more about Doris and what other dangerous adventures may lie in her future.
July 29, 2013
As several paths come together in an explosive beginning, you can’t help but be drawn into unable to look away. You have to know more - who are these people, what just happened and why.
Author Sam Berretti has crafted a suspenseful mystery in DOUBLE MAYHEM. The story is well-balanced with colorful characters, witty dialogue and action sprinkled with a touch of humor and a hint of romance.
It all begin when Doris Watson reluctantly goes on a blind date and ends up killing a syndicate hit man. From there Doris’ world is turned upside down and she no longer knows who to trust.
A military brat, Doris enjoys her simply life as a professional engineer creating amazing devices. She’s no trained assassin or spy, just an ordinary woman. She is suddenly embroiled in life-threatening circumstances when she’s asked to take a secret handoff from a Chinese agent who believes she’s someone else. To complicate matters more, she’s been entrusted to care for a mysterious psychic child.
Doris knew the blind date was a bad idea, she just didn’t know how bad.
This is a mesmerizing mystery filled with fast action and realistic characters. The emotions run the gamut from terror to heartwarming, from funny to heartbreaking. There are intriguing twists and turns to keep you guessing. Doris is a heroine you can’t help but like and pull for. She’s smart, strong and independent with just enough flaws to be endearing.
DOUBLE MAYHEM is the first installment in a new Seekers Mystery series that is sure to have a great following. Berretti has created a new female heroine that mystery lovers will be keeping an eye out for.
FTC Full Disclosure - A digital copy of this book was sent to me by the author in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.
Author Sam Berretti has crafted a suspenseful mystery in DOUBLE MAYHEM. The story is well-balanced with colorful characters, witty dialogue and action sprinkled with a touch of humor and a hint of romance.
It all begin when Doris Watson reluctantly goes on a blind date and ends up killing a syndicate hit man. From there Doris’ world is turned upside down and she no longer knows who to trust.
A military brat, Doris enjoys her simply life as a professional engineer creating amazing devices. She’s no trained assassin or spy, just an ordinary woman. She is suddenly embroiled in life-threatening circumstances when she’s asked to take a secret handoff from a Chinese agent who believes she’s someone else. To complicate matters more, she’s been entrusted to care for a mysterious psychic child.
Doris knew the blind date was a bad idea, she just didn’t know how bad.
This is a mesmerizing mystery filled with fast action and realistic characters. The emotions run the gamut from terror to heartwarming, from funny to heartbreaking. There are intriguing twists and turns to keep you guessing. Doris is a heroine you can’t help but like and pull for. She’s smart, strong and independent with just enough flaws to be endearing.
DOUBLE MAYHEM is the first installment in a new Seekers Mystery series that is sure to have a great following. Berretti has created a new female heroine that mystery lovers will be keeping an eye out for.
FTC Full Disclosure - A digital copy of this book was sent to me by the author in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.
October 20, 2013
Unlike many of the other reviewers, I found the first quarter of the book ponderous and difficult to decipher, it did not present an auspicious beginning. I’m a fan of the use of the interior monologue narration WHEN the characters are solidly placed or introduced. But to head-hop too early or too frequently before establishing at least a cursory introduction to the characters is problematic. While avid fans of the thriller / suspense genre may appreciate the instant action and relentless scene switches before there is some sense of the characters, I prefer a little handshake so I have some sense of my characters.
That being said, the book did improve with several unexpected twists and a nice mix of tension with moments to breath that sprinkled in humor and some romance to more fully develop and establish Doris’ character: a strong woman with brains and a heart, and the fortunate advantage of having some military training that will aid her in the trials to come. I enjoyed the doppelganger element, and the faster pace, although I did think that so many elements were converging to create havoc and threat that losing one or two wouldn’t have harmed the story.
When I finished this book, I went back to see if I had missed great swathes of important information divulged early on, and I didn’t find it any more navigable: even knowing the players in the game. While I loved the writing because it was clever and nuanced with exceptional choices that helped fuel tension and emotion, I still feel as if there were just a few too many elements added.
I received an eBook copy from the author for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
That being said, the book did improve with several unexpected twists and a nice mix of tension with moments to breath that sprinkled in humor and some romance to more fully develop and establish Doris’ character: a strong woman with brains and a heart, and the fortunate advantage of having some military training that will aid her in the trials to come. I enjoyed the doppelganger element, and the faster pace, although I did think that so many elements were converging to create havoc and threat that losing one or two wouldn’t have harmed the story.
When I finished this book, I went back to see if I had missed great swathes of important information divulged early on, and I didn’t find it any more navigable: even knowing the players in the game. While I loved the writing because it was clever and nuanced with exceptional choices that helped fuel tension and emotion, I still feel as if there were just a few too many elements added.
I received an eBook copy from the author for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
June 21, 2015
Robbie's Review
Strap on your weapons of choice, put on your favorite disguise and get ready for a book aptly entitled Double Mayhem. Author Sam Berretti is about to take his readers on a whirlwind tour of the dark world of organized crime, espionage and industrial spying. Doris Watson is an ordinary woman, leading an ordinary life who has no way of knowing that accepting yet another blind date will place her in the wrong place at the wrong time with the wrong people. This is a book where the bad guys are very bad and sometimes funny and the good guys are likable and always funny. The only thing that would make this story perfect is a cute child and an adorable cat. Oh wait...enter Bucky the cat and a little girl named Linda who is also a psychic "when she doesn't even know she's being psychic".
Double Mayhem, as the name implies, has two very convoluted story lines which run parallel throughout the book until they converge in a chaotic climax. There were times when I had to read back to remind myself of who was who and what was what because we had the CIA, FBI, NSA and the mob vying for the same illusive goal, but all was clear in the end. Along with all the scheming, murder and double mayhem, there is humor, romance and an international cast both good and evil. To quote Doris' unorthodox mentor Della Jamay Charboneau "This whole operation is crazy!"
Double Mayhem is well worth the read if you remain focused and keep the story lines straight. In this first book of the Seekers Mystery Series, we are introduced to a team of very special agents who, I suspect, will populate future books. I am especially looking forward to seeing more of Doris Watson AKA Maria Sebastian Nicole. Sempi Fi, Doris....Semper Fi!! :-D
Strap on your weapons of choice, put on your favorite disguise and get ready for a book aptly entitled Double Mayhem. Author Sam Berretti is about to take his readers on a whirlwind tour of the dark world of organized crime, espionage and industrial spying. Doris Watson is an ordinary woman, leading an ordinary life who has no way of knowing that accepting yet another blind date will place her in the wrong place at the wrong time with the wrong people. This is a book where the bad guys are very bad and sometimes funny and the good guys are likable and always funny. The only thing that would make this story perfect is a cute child and an adorable cat. Oh wait...enter Bucky the cat and a little girl named Linda who is also a psychic "when she doesn't even know she's being psychic".
Double Mayhem, as the name implies, has two very convoluted story lines which run parallel throughout the book until they converge in a chaotic climax. There were times when I had to read back to remind myself of who was who and what was what because we had the CIA, FBI, NSA and the mob vying for the same illusive goal, but all was clear in the end. Along with all the scheming, murder and double mayhem, there is humor, romance and an international cast both good and evil. To quote Doris' unorthodox mentor Della Jamay Charboneau "This whole operation is crazy!"
Double Mayhem is well worth the read if you remain focused and keep the story lines straight. In this first book of the Seekers Mystery Series, we are introduced to a team of very special agents who, I suspect, will populate future books. I am especially looking forward to seeing more of Doris Watson AKA Maria Sebastian Nicole. Sempi Fi, Doris....Semper Fi!! :-D
December 9, 2013
LOVED this book! I am a total sucker for a good mystery and add the slight paranormal twist to it and you have me hooked!
This book was definitely a character builder! At the beginning of the story, Doris is this boring woman who's life seems to be the same thing day to day...not really living, merely just functioning. And then it all changes with a quick moment of choice on a blind date. Who Doris is by the end of the book is far more fascinating than what I ever expected when starting this book! She turns out to be quick the bad ass!
It was a unique read-I almost felt like I was reading two stories as there were two different plots going on for most of the book (hence the double part of the title)...yet it was not confusing for me to read,it made it more exciting and it kept me wondering how it would all tie together in the end.
I loved the Della character and her sassy relationship with Doris...although I pictured her as a full figured black woman and not the petite one described in the book. On the other side of the story, I was also drawn to the quick love that you could feel between Doris and Linda, the sweet little girl quickly found someone to attach too during her troubled time and it was an instant connection.
The story was a good read, adding the intelligent engineering side to it all, helped to see who Doris really was and how her brain worked, which for her was often a life saver.
If you enjoy a good mystery/romance/paranormal this is a must read!
This book was definitely a character builder! At the beginning of the story, Doris is this boring woman who's life seems to be the same thing day to day...not really living, merely just functioning. And then it all changes with a quick moment of choice on a blind date. Who Doris is by the end of the book is far more fascinating than what I ever expected when starting this book! She turns out to be quick the bad ass!
It was a unique read-I almost felt like I was reading two stories as there were two different plots going on for most of the book (hence the double part of the title)...yet it was not confusing for me to read,it made it more exciting and it kept me wondering how it would all tie together in the end.
I loved the Della character and her sassy relationship with Doris...although I pictured her as a full figured black woman and not the petite one described in the book. On the other side of the story, I was also drawn to the quick love that you could feel between Doris and Linda, the sweet little girl quickly found someone to attach too during her troubled time and it was an instant connection.
The story was a good read, adding the intelligent engineering side to it all, helped to see who Doris really was and how her brain worked, which for her was often a life saver.
If you enjoy a good mystery/romance/paranormal this is a must read!
November 24, 2013
Mystery, high stakes, a touch of the paranormal and a heroine you won't soon forget are just the tip of the iceberg in Berretti's Double Mayhem. When I first started reading, I wasn't sure I was going to like it. Doris was boring. She just had no passion, goals or depth. Or so I thought.
She's in the wrong place at the wrong time, mistaken for someone else. Before you know it, she's being chased by bad guys, with a psychic girl in her care and past is starting to come back to her. There's humor, romance, paranormal, intrigue, mystic and more in this action packed mystery!
There is a lot to keep track of, so make sure you have some time to spend with Double Mayhem before you pick it up. There are many characters (mostly bad guys and government agency people), as well as basically two storylines going on at once. It all comes together in a smashing good way, but it takes a bit to get there. However, it's well worth it! I'm hoping that this is the first in a new series, because I really want to see what Doris can get into next! The whole story was a roller-coaster of emotions and plot twists. Highly recommend!
She's in the wrong place at the wrong time, mistaken for someone else. Before you know it, she's being chased by bad guys, with a psychic girl in her care and past is starting to come back to her. There's humor, romance, paranormal, intrigue, mystic and more in this action packed mystery!
There is a lot to keep track of, so make sure you have some time to spend with Double Mayhem before you pick it up. There are many characters (mostly bad guys and government agency people), as well as basically two storylines going on at once. It all comes together in a smashing good way, but it takes a bit to get there. However, it's well worth it! I'm hoping that this is the first in a new series, because I really want to see what Doris can get into next! The whole story was a roller-coaster of emotions and plot twists. Highly recommend!
June 25, 2013
I was fortunate to win this book from Goodreads giveaway as I got a first look at a new author and a book with an intriguing storyline. I was not disappointed. The author tosses you in to the story as if you were a character in the plotline. No background, just immediate action!! He masterfully makes this easy to follow without getting lost so you are learning and feeling along with the characters. I really enjoyed this style. This was a mystery that keeps you fully engaged throughout. There is a wonderful cast of unique, some scary, some endearing characters, great dialogue, firm plotting. This is the first of a new "Seekers Mystery" series and I eagerly look forward to the next. I think Sam Berretti is an author we will be hearing from for a long time.
August 26, 2015
I received this book as a Goodreads giveaway.
Pretty entertaining story. I wasn't completely thrilled with Doris being a good looking female that kicks some ass, but it didn't take away from the thrill of reading this book. Pretty good start to a series.
It started out as a simple mission to pose as her "twin" to get Chinese scientific secrets and end up to be a pretty wild ride. Between the secrets and a little precognition, Doris gets taken prisoner and using her engineering skills she is able to kick some a$$ and escape while saving the mission. Love interests thrown in for character development. Let's not forget the mob connections looking to get back their stolen money.
Very enjoyable and, yes, I will get the next book in the series.
Pretty entertaining story. I wasn't completely thrilled with Doris being a good looking female that kicks some ass, but it didn't take away from the thrill of reading this book. Pretty good start to a series.
It started out as a simple mission to pose as her "twin" to get Chinese scientific secrets and end up to be a pretty wild ride. Between the secrets and a little precognition, Doris gets taken prisoner and using her engineering skills she is able to kick some a$$ and escape while saving the mission. Love interests thrown in for character development. Let's not forget the mob connections looking to get back their stolen money.
Very enjoyable and, yes, I will get the next book in the series.
July 30, 2013
I had doubts about this book upon starting it. The first few chapters were a bit confusing but then BAM! They start making sense. Sam Berretti has a writing style that intrigues you, keeps you guess but also does not lose you in the seemingly 10,000 things going on. Until the very end I was gripped by trying to figure out exactly who the bad guys were. -
CLICK HERE FOR FULL REVIEW: http://druesrandomchatter.blogspot.co...
CLICK HERE FOR FULL REVIEW: http://druesrandomchatter.blogspot.co...
June 25, 2014
I received this book for free from the Goodreads book giveaway contest.
Double Mayhem was fantastic! A true page-turner where I couldn't wait to see what came next. I loved the intrigue and the unknown about who was really good and who was bad. Doris Watson is one tough chick that can kick some serious butt. This book is fast paced, action-packed, and a great read. Industrial espionage, death, destruction, violence, action; it's all here! You'll love this book. Just know that once you start, you won't want to stop.
Double Mayhem was fantastic! A true page-turner where I couldn't wait to see what came next. I loved the intrigue and the unknown about who was really good and who was bad. Doris Watson is one tough chick that can kick some serious butt. This book is fast paced, action-packed, and a great read. Industrial espionage, death, destruction, violence, action; it's all here! You'll love this book. Just know that once you start, you won't want to stop.
May 1, 2016
Great book. This is first book in the Seekers Mystery Series. Della is a hoot. What a character. Doris is a military veteran and an engineer. She leads a lonely life until she finds out she has a psychotic look-alike. OMG. Throw in the FBI, NSA, sadistic crooks, murder, mayhem, and romance. I already purchased Good Girl Gone.
March 31, 2014
This book was suspense right from the beginning ! I reccomend it to anyone who reads murder mysteries or if you just want a good ction book. Thank you Mr. Berritti for the book :)
5 stars :)
THank you Goodreads for allowing me to win this book:)
5 stars :)
THank you Goodreads for allowing me to win this book:)
January 16, 2016
I won this book on Good Reads and found it to be an exciting book. It kept me interested and wondering what was going to happen next. The plot twists were very surprising. Great book for a beach read or on a cold winter day.
June 17, 2023
What do you get when you combine murder, espionage, and steamy romance with good writing? A book you can't put down. In addition, Double Mayhem has interesting characters whom you care about. You shout, "No!" when they are faced with imminent death.
May 31, 2015
It takes a while, till the story speeds up, but at the end it is a good read
January 25, 2016
Brilliant!!!!
April 8, 2017
Twisty, nail-biting, fast-paced, non-stop action packed with intrigue, romance and some paranormal thrown in for more intrigue. This book is impossible to put down. Sam Berritti has instantly become one of my favorite authors! The book is good for all readers from teen on up!
I received this book from eBook Discovery. I voluntarily post this review. This is my honest review.
I received this book from eBook Discovery. I voluntarily post this review. This is my honest review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews