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PI Jocelyn Rush #2
Cold-Blooded
Fourteen years ago, high school track star Sydney Adams was gunned down in Philadelphia’s Fairmount Park. The investigation yielded useless clues, and the case went cold. But homicide detective Augustus Knox never gave up on finding Sydney’s killer. Now, retired from the police force and with only months to live, he enlists the help of private investigator Jocelyn Rush to clear the case once and for all. Armed with little more than a theory as to who murdered Sydney, Jocelyn tries to lure a killer into the open. But unraveling the mystery means facing off against a cunning psychopath whose ruthlessness knows no bounds. When more bodies start to pile up, Jocelyn has to decide just how far she’s willing to go to catch a cold-blooded killer.
310 pages, Paperback
First published December 10, 2015
1317 people are currently reading
1600 people want to read
About the author
Lisa Regan
35 books3,789 followersLisa Regan is the USA Today & Wall Street Journal bestselling author of the Detective Josie Quinn series as well as several other crime fiction titles. She has a Bachelor’s Degree in English and Master of Education Degree from Bloomsburg University. She is a member of Sisters In Crime, Mystery Writers of America, Crime Writers’ Association, and International Thriller Writers. She lives in Philadelphia with her husband, daughter and Boston Terrier named Mr. Phillip.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 207 reviews
May 6, 2016
COLD-BLOODED by Lisa Regan is a fast-paced mystery, crime suspense thriller with so many twists and revelations that you will find it difficult to put down.
This is the story of “A Dying Drunk’s Last Wish.”
Fourteen years ago, high school track star, Sydney Adams, a teenager, was gunned down in Philadelphia park while out for a jog. There were no leads and it soon became a cold case file.
But Augustus Knox, the lead homicide detective assigned to the case, never gave up on trying to find Sydney’s killer. Now fourteen years later, he’s retired and dying with only a few months to live, and wants resolution to this case. Knox, now “an incompetent drunk” had been obsessed with this case, and his failure to solve the case had resulted in the end of his career and marriage.
“Knox, sees things other people don’t. He’s all about the details.”
So Knox hires private investigator, Jocelyn Rush to clear the case. Knox has his own theories as to the identity of the killer…but Jocelyn will need to obtain a confession from this psychopath killer!
Can she catch this cold-blooded killer?
Just read this well written book and become involved with the many flawed believable characters. This is the first book that I have read by this author, but it won’t be the last! I already have her debut novel, “Finding Claire Fletcher”, and “Aberration” and “Hold Still” burning a hole in my Kindle. Can’t wait to read her other books.
I'd like to thank NetGalley author Lisa Regan for providing me an ARC of Cold-Blooded in exchange for an honest review.
This is the story of “A Dying Drunk’s Last Wish.”
Fourteen years ago, high school track star, Sydney Adams, a teenager, was gunned down in Philadelphia park while out for a jog. There were no leads and it soon became a cold case file.
But Augustus Knox, the lead homicide detective assigned to the case, never gave up on trying to find Sydney’s killer. Now fourteen years later, he’s retired and dying with only a few months to live, and wants resolution to this case. Knox, now “an incompetent drunk” had been obsessed with this case, and his failure to solve the case had resulted in the end of his career and marriage.
“Knox, sees things other people don’t. He’s all about the details.”
So Knox hires private investigator, Jocelyn Rush to clear the case. Knox has his own theories as to the identity of the killer…but Jocelyn will need to obtain a confession from this psychopath killer!
Can she catch this cold-blooded killer?
Just read this well written book and become involved with the many flawed believable characters. This is the first book that I have read by this author, but it won’t be the last! I already have her debut novel, “Finding Claire Fletcher”, and “Aberration” and “Hold Still” burning a hole in my Kindle. Can’t wait to read her other books.
I'd like to thank NetGalley author Lisa Regan for providing me an ARC of Cold-Blooded in exchange for an honest review.
February 19, 2018
Now retired from the police department, Jocelyn has opened her own private investigation office.
Former homicide detective Augustus Knox retired with one cold case still on the books. Now that he has only months to live, he wants Jocelyn to solve the case. Sydney Adams was only 17 when she was ruthlessly gunned down during an evening run.
With nothing to go on except Knox's idea of who the killer was, she has a plan to lure the killer out into the open. But plans always have a way of backfiring ......
This is a well-written crime thriller. The story premise is a good one, even though at one point it became a little predictable. The characters are terrific. Everyone from Jocelyn, who truly has anger management issues, to her hunky boyfriend, to her one-time police partner to Anita, her friend and manager, to Knox, a man who turned to alcohol and lost his family in the midst of his unsolved case, all lend so much credibility to the story.
I would love to see more of Jocelyn and her 'team'.
Former homicide detective Augustus Knox retired with one cold case still on the books. Now that he has only months to live, he wants Jocelyn to solve the case. Sydney Adams was only 17 when she was ruthlessly gunned down during an evening run.
With nothing to go on except Knox's idea of who the killer was, she has a plan to lure the killer out into the open. But plans always have a way of backfiring ......
This is a well-written crime thriller. The story premise is a good one, even though at one point it became a little predictable. The characters are terrific. Everyone from Jocelyn, who truly has anger management issues, to her hunky boyfriend, to her one-time police partner to Anita, her friend and manager, to Knox, a man who turned to alcohol and lost his family in the midst of his unsolved case, all lend so much credibility to the story.
I would love to see more of Jocelyn and her 'team'.
July 30, 2023
Jocelyn Rush retired from the Philadelphia police department following the events in Hold Still and started her own private investigaion agency. Things have been going well for the fledgling agency but it is mundane work. Background checks, cheating spouses, etc. Then Augustus Knox showed up. Knox was also a retired Philadelphia detective.
Fourteen years ago Sydney Adams, a high school track star, was gunned down in Fairmount Park. The case went cold. Knox was never able to solve it. It destroyed his career, his marriage, his family. He became an alcoholic. Now with only months to live he turns to Rush to solve the cold case.
Knox believes he knows who the killer is and before alcohol brought him to the bottom he had been a very good detective. But it has been fourteen years and the clues are few. Rush agrees to take on the case. Fortunately she still has several contacts in the police department to help her.
As the investigation proceeds other deaths come to light. As the story progressed it became obvious that there was psychopath out there. But how to prove it? This killer is very cunning and uses people. Jocelyn will need all of her skills. Can she solve the cold case for Knox and bring justice for Sydney Adams?
This was an enjoyable story even though it became obvious who the psychopath is. It was fast paced and kept me turning the pages. I enjoy the characters and look forward to another installment.
Fourteen years ago Sydney Adams, a high school track star, was gunned down in Fairmount Park. The case went cold. Knox was never able to solve it. It destroyed his career, his marriage, his family. He became an alcoholic. Now with only months to live he turns to Rush to solve the cold case.
Knox believes he knows who the killer is and before alcohol brought him to the bottom he had been a very good detective. But it has been fourteen years and the clues are few. Rush agrees to take on the case. Fortunately she still has several contacts in the police department to help her.
As the investigation proceeds other deaths come to light. As the story progressed it became obvious that there was psychopath out there. But how to prove it? This killer is very cunning and uses people. Jocelyn will need all of her skills. Can she solve the cold case for Knox and bring justice for Sydney Adams?
This was an enjoyable story even though it became obvious who the psychopath is. It was fast paced and kept me turning the pages. I enjoy the characters and look forward to another installment.
March 14, 2016
3 and half stars
Fourteen years after the murder of senior student and track star Sydney Adams' murder, the disgraced (and alcoholic) detective who was responsible for the investigation haven't given up on proving Sydney's tracking couch was the person responsible.
With new evidence in hand, he hires Jocelyn Rush - a former police detective, now private investigator - to solve the mystery once and for all. He only has a few months to live and he'd like to see the case closed and justice being served.
This book started slow and a little bit different - we supposedly know who the killer is but nobody was able to prove it.
The story takes a while to find its rhythm but once it does, it's a fun, exciting ride.
The characters - Jocelyn, her friend and business associate, her friends from the force, her boyfriend - they are all interesting and enjoyable, adding charm and warmth to the story.
This was a great read and I look forward to read more from the author.
I'd like to thank NetGalley author Lisa Regan for providing me an ARC of Cold-Blooded in exchange for an honest review.
August 23, 2022
Book Blog | Bookstagram
Fourteen years after the murder of high school track star, Sydney Adams, the former detective-turned-alcoholic who couldn't solve the case hires P.I. Jocelyn Rush to close the case for him after he's terminally diagnosed with only 6 months left to live. Justice is his deathbed wish.
This definitely sounded promising and it did have a lot of good points. The writing is whatever, it just needed to be refined. The characters were human and likeable, drawing you into their world with ease and interest. And the plot had a nice pace with one last big moment to wrap everything up with a bang.
But, the mystery was linear and obvious. I kept waiting for the characters to catch up to what I already knew. I'm not saying this to brag - there is just seriously very little mystery here. And even someone who's never read a mystery before might find it obvious, so it's frustrating when the characters lag behind you as a reader.
The suspect in the murder is delivered right from the very beginning (on purpose,) and a "twist" that comes in the last quarter of the story is meant to turn everything on its head. But because this twist is pretty glaring throughout, the punch of it didn't have any power behind it.
The backstory to the mystery was more interesting and took more effort to figure out, but the overall answer was kind of... uninspired.
My ability to enjoy this story was on shaky ground because I couldn't see how no one was able to figure out this cold case for 14 years; how it was able to make a detective so obsessed that he leaves his family and drinks himself to death, quite literally. The answer was right in front of everyone's stupid faces!
*deep cleansing breath*
Okay, so as I read this back I know it sounds like I didn't like Cold Blooded, but I actually didn't mind it.
⭐⭐⭐ | 3 stars
book source: The publisher via NetGalley in exchange for a review
Fourteen years after the murder of high school track star, Sydney Adams, the former detective-turned-alcoholic who couldn't solve the case hires P.I. Jocelyn Rush to close the case for him after he's terminally diagnosed with only 6 months left to live. Justice is his deathbed wish.
This definitely sounded promising and it did have a lot of good points. The writing is whatever, it just needed to be refined. The characters were human and likeable, drawing you into their world with ease and interest. And the plot had a nice pace with one last big moment to wrap everything up with a bang.
But, the mystery was linear and obvious. I kept waiting for the characters to catch up to what I already knew. I'm not saying this to brag - there is just seriously very little mystery here. And even someone who's never read a mystery before might find it obvious, so it's frustrating when the characters lag behind you as a reader.
The suspect in the murder is delivered right from the very beginning (on purpose,) and a "twist" that comes in the last quarter of the story is meant to turn everything on its head. But because this twist is pretty glaring throughout, the punch of it didn't have any power behind it.
The backstory to the mystery was more interesting and took more effort to figure out, but the overall answer was kind of... uninspired.
My ability to enjoy this story was on shaky ground because I couldn't see how no one was able to figure out this cold case for 14 years; how it was able to make a detective so obsessed that he leaves his family and drinks himself to death, quite literally. The answer was right in front of everyone's stupid faces!
*deep cleansing breath*
Okay, so as I read this back I know it sounds like I didn't like Cold Blooded, but I actually didn't mind it.
⭐⭐⭐ | 3 stars
book source: The publisher via NetGalley in exchange for a review
November 9, 2015
Another winner!
The gripping crime thriller, Cold-Blooded, solidifies author Lisa Regan’s standing as one of the industry’s most accomplished and noteworthy contemporary writers. With everyone and their mother self-publishing these days, we’re often left swimming in a sea of homogenized bunk, so it’s refreshing to discover a writer whose skill and talent rises above it all, like rich cream. But don’t let the analogy trick you, because Regan’s prose is dense with characters that leap off the page, while the plot reels you in with each and every tense word.
There are many one-hit wonders out there, even some who’ve managed to churn out a decent second act. But there aren’t many who’ve proven, for the fourth time now, that they have what it takes to stand up against the giants in this genre—Karin Slaughter, Chelsea Cain, Lisa Gardner, to name a few. Yet Regan has done just that with Cold-Blooded, a masterpiece of crime fiction that will leave you scratching your head ‘til the very end, wondering who the heck the killer could be.
Regan is an expert at creating flawed characters that feel real and believable, characters whose motivations are true, however mucked up they are by their own personal demons and conflicts. But Cold-Blooded is not all darkness. There are many moments of surprising humor and levity, often at just the right time, so the reader can take a breath and move forward.
I fell in love with Jocelyn Rush in Hold Still, and she doesn’t disappoint in Cold-Blooded. With a past full of secrets and pain, she fights to do her job while raising her daughter as a single parent. And her love-interest is back in this fourth book, as well, which made me, a romance junkie, so very happy, even as Jocelyn—a former police detective and now a tough PI—laments over wearing a lacy thong to temp him! See? Levity!
Regan brings Anita back, too, as her feisty partner in their newly-formed private investigative firm, and it’s to these two the dying former Philly PD detective, Augustus Knox, turns to solve a cold case he was never able to, but dearly wants to before his looming death. I literally cried over Knox and the demons that haunt him as he fights against his journey toward the grave. But Regan introduces the reader to new characters, as well, some of whom you’ll definitely want to kick in the teeth.
Eloquently set in the multi-faceted city of Philadelphia in a way only a life-long resident could so passionately illustrate, the mystery of who killed young Sydney all those years ago unfolds in an astounding crescendo, with a shocking end that left me with my eyes wide and my mouth open. Just like all of Regan’s books, I loved Cold-Blooded and was so bummed when it was over. I highly recommend it!
The gripping crime thriller, Cold-Blooded, solidifies author Lisa Regan’s standing as one of the industry’s most accomplished and noteworthy contemporary writers. With everyone and their mother self-publishing these days, we’re often left swimming in a sea of homogenized bunk, so it’s refreshing to discover a writer whose skill and talent rises above it all, like rich cream. But don’t let the analogy trick you, because Regan’s prose is dense with characters that leap off the page, while the plot reels you in with each and every tense word.
There are many one-hit wonders out there, even some who’ve managed to churn out a decent second act. But there aren’t many who’ve proven, for the fourth time now, that they have what it takes to stand up against the giants in this genre—Karin Slaughter, Chelsea Cain, Lisa Gardner, to name a few. Yet Regan has done just that with Cold-Blooded, a masterpiece of crime fiction that will leave you scratching your head ‘til the very end, wondering who the heck the killer could be.
Regan is an expert at creating flawed characters that feel real and believable, characters whose motivations are true, however mucked up they are by their own personal demons and conflicts. But Cold-Blooded is not all darkness. There are many moments of surprising humor and levity, often at just the right time, so the reader can take a breath and move forward.
I fell in love with Jocelyn Rush in Hold Still, and she doesn’t disappoint in Cold-Blooded. With a past full of secrets and pain, she fights to do her job while raising her daughter as a single parent. And her love-interest is back in this fourth book, as well, which made me, a romance junkie, so very happy, even as Jocelyn—a former police detective and now a tough PI—laments over wearing a lacy thong to temp him! See? Levity!
Regan brings Anita back, too, as her feisty partner in their newly-formed private investigative firm, and it’s to these two the dying former Philly PD detective, Augustus Knox, turns to solve a cold case he was never able to, but dearly wants to before his looming death. I literally cried over Knox and the demons that haunt him as he fights against his journey toward the grave. But Regan introduces the reader to new characters, as well, some of whom you’ll definitely want to kick in the teeth.
Eloquently set in the multi-faceted city of Philadelphia in a way only a life-long resident could so passionately illustrate, the mystery of who killed young Sydney all those years ago unfolds in an astounding crescendo, with a shocking end that left me with my eyes wide and my mouth open. Just like all of Regan’s books, I loved Cold-Blooded and was so bummed when it was over. I highly recommend it!
June 2, 2016
Being a huge fan of Lisa Regan, I was sure her latest novel, Cold-Blooded was going to be just as amazing as Hold Still, Aberration, and Finding Claire Fletcher. I'm really sorry when I say Cold-Blooded wasn't as good as the others. I really wanted to like it but it just didn't work for me. The novel never grabbed or intrigued me as I didn't find any part of it to be exciting. In fact, I felt so bored at times I wanted to stop and move onto the next novel. Perhaps because I knew who the culprit(s) were very early on. It's so obvious that there's no way you can get it wrong. Also having that thrown in my face at every turn didn't help. There were a few things that I never understood (perhaps I missed reading it or really didn't pay attention). First, why did no one do a background check on Cash Rego to see where else he may have taught? Second, if Knox has spent 14 years trying to the find the killer, why did he not use the internet or at least ask Trent if there were any other deaths before or after Sydney's passing? Yes, I know internet wasn't around back then when he went to jail. I'm talking about the last five to seven years.
With respect to the characters, I found each of them to be lacking any substance. I didn't understand why Caleb wasn't around more. You'd think because he's so angry that he would voice his contempt of the situation when it involved Jocelyn, adding more depth to the story.
I'm all up for a scholarship that was created on behalf of Sydney, but the way they went about trying to rattle Cash Rego's cage could've have taken a different, better and faster route. Yes, I know it's for charity; however, wouldn't it have been easier to just visit the Regos at their home and show them the new photos that were found? That would've only taken less than a day. Going the other way, that takes days, if not weeks, to put together. I would think they'd want the answer right away.
The story did nothing for me. I wasn't surprised by any of the revelations. Seriously, what a huge letdown, at least for me. Will I read her next novel? Absolutely. That being said, take the time to read Regan's other novels which are simply amazing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 16, 2015
This was my first book by Lisa Regan, but definitely not my last. I've already added Hold Still, which includes some of the same characters, to my wish list.
In Cold-Blooded, PI Jocelyn Rush is asked to investigate the cold case of a teenage girl who was shot fourteen years ago. This book had one of the most warped psychopath I've read about in a long time. The most impressive thing for me was how you were aware that this individual was obviously involved in the murder but you could not predict how truly sick this person was until the layers were peeled off bit by bit. Very cleverly done and succinctly written, I absolutely loved it! All the other characters were skillfully crafted as well with enough background on each one that you felt totally connected to them, and they became alive. A perfect thriller with lots of suspense, twists and turns, but also some humor and even a bit of romance. I was so engrossed in this story, I didn't actually want it to end. Highly recommended for crime and thriller fans!
Thanks to the publisher and author for providing me with a copy via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
In Cold-Blooded, PI Jocelyn Rush is asked to investigate the cold case of a teenage girl who was shot fourteen years ago. This book had one of the most warped psychopath I've read about in a long time. The most impressive thing for me was how you were aware that this individual was obviously involved in the murder but you could not predict how truly sick this person was until the layers were peeled off bit by bit. Very cleverly done and succinctly written, I absolutely loved it! All the other characters were skillfully crafted as well with enough background on each one that you felt totally connected to them, and they became alive. A perfect thriller with lots of suspense, twists and turns, but also some humor and even a bit of romance. I was so engrossed in this story, I didn't actually want it to end. Highly recommended for crime and thriller fans!
Thanks to the publisher and author for providing me with a copy via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 27, 2015
4.5 Stars! I really, really liked this book! I kept going back and forth from two different suspects. It was crazy! Then in the end when the suspect is finally revealed, all the things behind the scenes that were done. This suspect was crazy.
I definitely did not want to put this book down. It was really good and I found myself just flipping through the pages. Unfortunately, I had to put it down every once in a while as I was cooking Thanksgiving dinner. Ugh! However, when I finally got back to it, the author did not disappoint. Even when someone was finally arrested, it was not over. This killer was a very sick, creative one.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. And, I emphatically recommend it. And, it is definitely worth the price!!! You definitely get your money's worth at twice the dollar amount!
I'd like to thank the author and Net Galley for providing me this free e-galley in exchange for an honest review. I will absolutely be looking for other titles by this author!
I definitely did not want to put this book down. It was really good and I found myself just flipping through the pages. Unfortunately, I had to put it down every once in a while as I was cooking Thanksgiving dinner. Ugh! However, when I finally got back to it, the author did not disappoint. Even when someone was finally arrested, it was not over. This killer was a very sick, creative one.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. And, I emphatically recommend it. And, it is definitely worth the price!!! You definitely get your money's worth at twice the dollar amount!
I'd like to thank the author and Net Galley for providing me this free e-galley in exchange for an honest review. I will absolutely be looking for other titles by this author!
December 27, 2020
I liked this second book much more than the first. Once again, Lisa Regan throws a twist in that I didn't see coming. I love that! Terrific read! I wish she would write more books with Jocelyn Rush. She created a great character with her. ;)
September 18, 2024
This was a good follow up
Good suspense mystery
very little romance
She is still with the H from first book and they take their relationship a step further and I love toys are said.
Overall good read
Good suspense mystery
very little romance
She is still with the H from first book and they take their relationship a step further and I love toys are said.
Overall good read
January 19, 2016
I was first introduced to Lisa Regan’s writing about a year and a half ago when I read Hold Still. I was completely engrossed by her ability to go for it with the dark, horrendous crimes being committed in the story. Cold-Blooded continues on with a whole new investigation by Jocelyn Rush.
In my opinion, this is a fantastic way to build a series, while chronologically, Cold-Blooded follows Hold Still, I think that you could read them and any future books with Ms. Rush’s character, in any order. It has that kind of Law and Order feel to it, where each book is its own unique entity, the whole story is completed with the book; although the crimes themselves would fit better in Stabler’s and Benson’s portfolios over at SVU. There are overlying events but these are not essential to the story, they add to the depth.
This time around a retired detective calls on Jocelyn and her team to clear a cold case that has haunted him for the past fourteen years. Jocelyn brings her unorthodox methods and no holds barred attitude to solving the case and brings peace to a dying man.
One of the most important elements of any police drama is the killer. This is Lisa Regan’s forte. In Cold-Blooded she has created one of the most devious, cold-hearted killers I have ever seen. The scope of the crime is brutal and this devious villain kept me riveted to the story. This person definitely needed to be stopped. It is the type of story that will keep you guessing to the end.
Cold-Blooded is a great book for readers who are not afraid to be shocked and a little appalled by crimes that really happen in this world. It has fantastic characters and all the action that you could want in a story.
*I received a copy of the book from the publisher (via NetGalley) in exchange for an honest review.
In my opinion, this is a fantastic way to build a series, while chronologically, Cold-Blooded follows Hold Still, I think that you could read them and any future books with Ms. Rush’s character, in any order. It has that kind of Law and Order feel to it, where each book is its own unique entity, the whole story is completed with the book; although the crimes themselves would fit better in Stabler’s and Benson’s portfolios over at SVU. There are overlying events but these are not essential to the story, they add to the depth.
This time around a retired detective calls on Jocelyn and her team to clear a cold case that has haunted him for the past fourteen years. Jocelyn brings her unorthodox methods and no holds barred attitude to solving the case and brings peace to a dying man.
One of the most important elements of any police drama is the killer. This is Lisa Regan’s forte. In Cold-Blooded she has created one of the most devious, cold-hearted killers I have ever seen. The scope of the crime is brutal and this devious villain kept me riveted to the story. This person definitely needed to be stopped. It is the type of story that will keep you guessing to the end.
Cold-Blooded is a great book for readers who are not afraid to be shocked and a little appalled by crimes that really happen in this world. It has fantastic characters and all the action that you could want in a story.
*I received a copy of the book from the publisher (via NetGalley) in exchange for an honest review.
November 12, 2015
I'm sitting here thinking, "Where do I begin?" as all Lisa Regan books make me wonder. The art of storytelling was not lost on this author and she weaves a tale of lies, infidelity and murder unlike any other. Cold Blooded had everything I look for in a thriller. A plausible plot line, strong detective, twists and turns leaving you sure one minute and unsure the next, and a touch of romance to round things out.
Jocelyn Rush is a scarred detective, mother, and lover, who is faced with the realities of her life every time she looks at her hand, and into the face of her four year old daughter. Determined to come home every night to Olivia, she quits the police force and opens her own detective firm. When the Sydney Adams case falls into her lap she has no idea just how quickly life was going to come full circle.
Writing a review for a Lisa Regan novel can be difficult because spoilers are at every turn in her books. She is the master of character development and she leaves you hanging on every word Jocelyn, Caleb, Kevin, and Knox say. She touches your heart with the fear and worry Jocelyn feels for her daughter, and makes you smile when she second guesses her prowess as the woman in Caleb's life. Saying much more will give something away from Cold Blooded, or the first book Jocelyn Rush shows up in, Hold Still, so all I can say is stop reading this review and go get Hold Still! That will tide you over until you can get your hands on Cold Blooded. Trust me when I say you won't be able to put either of them down. Well done, Ms. Regan. It isn't often that I end a thriller with a smile on my face with a side of red misty chills.
Jocelyn Rush is a scarred detective, mother, and lover, who is faced with the realities of her life every time she looks at her hand, and into the face of her four year old daughter. Determined to come home every night to Olivia, she quits the police force and opens her own detective firm. When the Sydney Adams case falls into her lap she has no idea just how quickly life was going to come full circle.
Writing a review for a Lisa Regan novel can be difficult because spoilers are at every turn in her books. She is the master of character development and she leaves you hanging on every word Jocelyn, Caleb, Kevin, and Knox say. She touches your heart with the fear and worry Jocelyn feels for her daughter, and makes you smile when she second guesses her prowess as the woman in Caleb's life. Saying much more will give something away from Cold Blooded, or the first book Jocelyn Rush shows up in, Hold Still, so all I can say is stop reading this review and go get Hold Still! That will tide you over until you can get your hands on Cold Blooded. Trust me when I say you won't be able to put either of them down. Well done, Ms. Regan. It isn't often that I end a thriller with a smile on my face with a side of red misty chills.
January 31, 2016
Oh yikes what a devious plot. Just when you thought you had it worked out - another twist. Lisa Regan has possibly written her best book yet. Intelligent, gripping and starring possibly one of the most devious villains yet. And all this without any gratuitous violence.
How well do we really know the people close to us? For the characters in this book the answer is not very well at all.
How well do we really know the people close to us? For the characters in this book the answer is not very well at all.
January 17, 2019
Lisa Regan is an ace at suspense!
Lisa Regan has very quickly shot to my top list of authors!! I usually look out for names well-known to me like Nora Roberts & Danielle Steele, but am super glad I stumbled across one of her books on Amazon. I could barely put it down, looking forward to lunch breaks at work when I could read! Lisa puts together one helluva plot that will keep you hooked to the very end!
Lisa Regan has very quickly shot to my top list of authors!! I usually look out for names well-known to me like Nora Roberts & Danielle Steele, but am super glad I stumbled across one of her books on Amazon. I could barely put it down, looking forward to lunch breaks at work when I could read! Lisa puts together one helluva plot that will keep you hooked to the very end!
April 23, 2025
This series is so good. I’m so happy that I finally read it.
January 10, 2016
First things first: I received an ARC through NetGalley.
The book came out this month and if you like something like that, you should totally check it out.
I'm totally gonna buy a paperback copy of this as soon as it comes out.
It was just that good of a book. I love a good and suspenseful crime book. And this book had everything. It had the right amount of case work, action, and the personal stuff that's going on the characters lifes. That is something I'm always looking for.
I loved Knox, the old detective that couldn't solve that one case and who lost everything while trying to solve it. He got the news that he was going to die soon and contacted a private investigator to help him solve the case. Jocelyn is the private investigator he's asking for help. And she's just amazing. Just a few pages in when she first appeared and i was completely sold on her. She had a lot of baggade but that's how I love my characters. Cause life sucks sometimes and people have to deal with lots of stuff.
I won't say anything about this case. Cause I don't want to ruin the story for everyone, who's reading this and who wants to pick up the book. I'm just gonna say that I loved all the twists and turns in the story. There was some shockig stuff in there that I didn't see coming. CRAZY STUFF!!!
The writing was really good. There was some stuff that got repeated a lot, that wasn't necessarily needed but that didn't weight much, cause overall 5 stars for this book. And even though I know about all the twists, I really want to reread this at some point.
The book came out this month and if you like something like that, you should totally check it out.
I'm totally gonna buy a paperback copy of this as soon as it comes out.
It was just that good of a book. I love a good and suspenseful crime book. And this book had everything. It had the right amount of case work, action, and the personal stuff that's going on the characters lifes. That is something I'm always looking for.
I loved Knox, the old detective that couldn't solve that one case and who lost everything while trying to solve it. He got the news that he was going to die soon and contacted a private investigator to help him solve the case. Jocelyn is the private investigator he's asking for help. And she's just amazing. Just a few pages in when she first appeared and i was completely sold on her. She had a lot of baggade but that's how I love my characters. Cause life sucks sometimes and people have to deal with lots of stuff.
I won't say anything about this case. Cause I don't want to ruin the story for everyone, who's reading this and who wants to pick up the book. I'm just gonna say that I loved all the twists and turns in the story. There was some shockig stuff in there that I didn't see coming. CRAZY STUFF!!!
The writing was really good. There was some stuff that got repeated a lot, that wasn't necessarily needed but that didn't weight much, cause overall 5 stars for this book. And even though I know about all the twists, I really want to reread this at some point.
December 31, 2015
I ‘may’ have read this book in one sitting. It is that good. I’m a huge Lisa Regan fan, and I couldn’t wait to read the follow up to Hold Still. The second installment of Jocelyn Rush’s story is so full of terror and tension, you won’t be able to put it down. The calculation that went into this plot is beyond frightening. I don’t normally like thrillers, I don’t like reading about what humans can do to other humans, but Lisa has a way of pulling me into the story quickly and making it impossible to stop reading.
This tale weaves a little differently than Hold Still. In Cold-Blooded, Jocelyn is a little more vulnerable than she was in Hold Still. She’s a little more seasoned but also a little more scared. She’s had a firsthand taste of the violence she’s normally shielded from, and that’s changed her a little. She’s given up her badge and gained the freedom to investigate what she wants, but with this freedom comes a lack of security. Don’t worry, she’s still very sharp, and she’ll make you laugh out loud more than once! But she might make you think twice before drinking someone else's coffee.
What else can I say, but that Cold-Blooded is the embodiment of a top-notch, great thriller. Lisa Regan will make you thankful for your safe, comfortable bed while you’re hiding under the covers reading this quintessential, calculated, maniacal masterpiece.
This tale weaves a little differently than Hold Still. In Cold-Blooded, Jocelyn is a little more vulnerable than she was in Hold Still. She’s a little more seasoned but also a little more scared. She’s had a firsthand taste of the violence she’s normally shielded from, and that’s changed her a little. She’s given up her badge and gained the freedom to investigate what she wants, but with this freedom comes a lack of security. Don’t worry, she’s still very sharp, and she’ll make you laugh out loud more than once! But she might make you think twice before drinking someone else's coffee.
What else can I say, but that Cold-Blooded is the embodiment of a top-notch, great thriller. Lisa Regan will make you thankful for your safe, comfortable bed while you’re hiding under the covers reading this quintessential, calculated, maniacal masterpiece.
December 1, 2015
I requested to read Cold Blooded by Lisa Regan through NetGalley. I absolutely loved this book and it was very hard to put down. So through the holiday I had to stop reading and it was hard, believe me.
I loved Jocelyn Rush’s character she was a tough but yet sensitive woman. This was my first book by Lisa Regan and it will not be my last, I have found another Author I really enjoyed reading.
This book grabs you from the first page to the very last. There were so many twists and turns, that I wanted to keep reading so I could find out what was going to happen next.
Knox who was retired from the police force instills the help of PI Jocelyn Rush to help solve a 14-year-old cold case before he passes away. He drank himself literally to death, and never got over not solving the case of Sydney Adams whose murder happened in May of 2009 while she was out jogging.
I could say allot more about this book but it is hard because I do not want to give any spoilers away, but that is hard not to do because this book is a nonstop thriller, something happening all of time through the entire book. Just pick it up and read it, you will not be sorry you did. Thank you Ms. Regan for such a fantastic read.
I loved Jocelyn Rush’s character she was a tough but yet sensitive woman. This was my first book by Lisa Regan and it will not be my last, I have found another Author I really enjoyed reading.
This book grabs you from the first page to the very last. There were so many twists and turns, that I wanted to keep reading so I could find out what was going to happen next.
Knox who was retired from the police force instills the help of PI Jocelyn Rush to help solve a 14-year-old cold case before he passes away. He drank himself literally to death, and never got over not solving the case of Sydney Adams whose murder happened in May of 2009 while she was out jogging.
I could say allot more about this book but it is hard because I do not want to give any spoilers away, but that is hard not to do because this book is a nonstop thriller, something happening all of time through the entire book. Just pick it up and read it, you will not be sorry you did. Thank you Ms. Regan for such a fantastic read.
January 3, 2016
* ARC Received in exchange for an honest review.*
Lisa Regan is new to me and in my opinion she's right up there with some of my favourite crime writers such as; Lisa Jackson, Kathy Reichs, Karen Slaughter, James Patterson. Etc
This book is fantastic. It definitely keeps you guessing to the very and it's jam packed with drama,twists and turns and everything in between.
Throughout the whole book l felt I was sat on herder hooks waiting for some sort of bOmb to detonate. Every time that bomb does go off your heart races and if you're anything like me you'h be chewing your nails to me very quick.
I loved how all the characters came across and how well masked the true villains were, I love the Lisa Regan keeps you guessing. I guess I was hooked from page one and struggled to put it down.
11m looking forward to reading other books by this author. I can already say I'm a far and that's just after one book!
Lisa Regan is new to me and in my opinion she's right up there with some of my favourite crime writers such as; Lisa Jackson, Kathy Reichs, Karen Slaughter, James Patterson. Etc
This book is fantastic. It definitely keeps you guessing to the very and it's jam packed with drama,twists and turns and everything in between.
Throughout the whole book l felt I was sat on herder hooks waiting for some sort of bOmb to detonate. Every time that bomb does go off your heart races and if you're anything like me you'h be chewing your nails to me very quick.
I loved how all the characters came across and how well masked the true villains were, I love the Lisa Regan keeps you guessing. I guess I was hooked from page one and struggled to put it down.
11m looking forward to reading other books by this author. I can already say I'm a far and that's just after one book!
December 9, 2015
This was a fantastic book! Lisa Regan has written a criminal suspense page turner. I didn't realize it was a series, but the author does a great job keeping the reader informed about what has happened previously without bogging down the current story. With that being said, I'm definitely going to start from the beginning.
Completely flawless plot, strong characters you can get behind, despise, feel sorry for and genuinely like. Just when you think you've figured it all out, there's another turn that you didn't see coming. Perfect crime story for me!
*Received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
Completely flawless plot, strong characters you can get behind, despise, feel sorry for and genuinely like. Just when you think you've figured it all out, there's another turn that you didn't see coming. Perfect crime story for me!
*Received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
December 22, 2015
This was a solidly good read. Regan's writing is to-the-point and her plot lines run smooth. As with "Finding Claire Fletcher," I didn't want to stop reading. Definitely a fun read, and I don't want to say more. No spoilers!
November 4, 2015
Great book!! Review to come
August 19, 2023
"The key distinction here between a psychopath and a normal person is that psychopaths do not have a conscience. That means they feel no guilt, no remorse for anything that they do. Ever.”
•••
I have to say I am highly impressed with Lisa Regan. Although I’m not surprised by who the mastermind was in this story there were pieces of it I put together shortly before it was announced. Overall a good read but I still enjoyed the first book in this series more.
•••
I have to say I am highly impressed with Lisa Regan. Although I’m not surprised by who the mastermind was in this story there were pieces of it I put together shortly before it was announced. Overall a good read but I still enjoyed the first book in this series more.
September 20, 2025
An average read but it was obvious it was Francine who was involved in the murders of Sydney and Becca. I'd have liked to have seen how that impacted her husband chas more but that wouldn't have supported the narrative that a timid female is innocent and the "abusive" husband is to blame.
It was clear that Kevin was going to come to the rescue...that said I'd been saying in my head that she should have taken Kevin instead of Trent.
It was clear that Kevin was going to come to the rescue...that said I'd been saying in my head that she should have taken Kevin instead of Trent.
November 26, 2017
Cold-blooded by Lisa Regan.
I really enjoyed this book. A thriller of a read that had me gripped. Sydney Adams was 14 years old when she was gunned down. Detective Augustus knox never gave up but the case went cold. Pi jocelyn rush is enlisted to close the case once and for all. Just how far will she go to catch a cold-blooded killer?
I was surprised with who it was. 4*. Netgalley and buoni amici press, llc.
I really enjoyed this book. A thriller of a read that had me gripped. Sydney Adams was 14 years old when she was gunned down. Detective Augustus knox never gave up but the case went cold. Pi jocelyn rush is enlisted to close the case once and for all. Just how far will she go to catch a cold-blooded killer?
I was surprised with who it was. 4*. Netgalley and buoni amici press, llc.
September 26, 2021
Good story
Good story, good characters. Dialogue that sounds realistic and a ass-kicking heroine.
Enjoyable read, with twists and turns you don’t see coming until they happen.
The writer has improved in her writing ability and storytelling from the first of the series yo the second.
Good story, good characters. Dialogue that sounds realistic and a ass-kicking heroine.
Enjoyable read, with twists and turns you don’t see coming until they happen.
The writer has improved in her writing ability and storytelling from the first of the series yo the second.
March 10, 2025
More like half a star. So much cursing which I have no patience for in a work of fiction. Numerous accounts of statutory rape and a couple bedroom scenes lowered my rating even further. A cold case is always a hook for me, but this one seemed pretty obvious from just a few chapters in. Overall it felt like a waste of my time and I will stick to my cozy mysteries from now on!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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December 25, 2018
Good writing and solid characters, but the mystery this time around is quite predictable. You can figure out who the culprit really is pretty early in the investigation. And the romance continues to be rushed and out of place.
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