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Malice #1
Breath of Malice
FBI Special Agent Paige Carson hoped she’d be able to start a new life in small-town South Carolina. But when a senator’s sister is murdered and a blank postcard is left next to the body, Paige realizes that a killer from her past has found her―and is sending her a very personal message. From the moment he hired her, FBI Special Agent in Charge Sam McKade knew Paige was hiding something. Prompted by this recent threat, she finally opens one year ago, she caught the eye of suspected serial killer Todd Thames. Now he’s come back to pull her into his game, whether she wants to play or not. As the danger increases, Paige and Sam give in to their growing attraction, and he vows to protect her no matter the cost. But the murderer will stop at nothing to get to his intended prey, and the strong arm of the law―and the shelter of her new love―may not be enough to save her.
228 pages, Paperback
First published June 1, 2016
348 people are currently reading
1861 people want to read
About the author
Karen Fenech
28 books133 followersUSA Today Bestselling Author Karen Fenech writes romantic suspense novels and short works of suspense. She is the author of the romantic suspense series, The Protectors. Karen's novels and short suspense fiction have received critical acclaim and have been translated into several languages. When Karen's not writing or spending time with her family, she loves to shop, watch movies, and just kick back in a comfortable chair and read.
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Next Release: BREATH OF MALICE
http://www.amazon.com/Breath-Malice-K...
You can reach Karen here:
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/KarenFenechsF...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/karenfenech
Website: http://www.karenfenech.com
If you'd like to know when Karen Fenech's next novel is released, sign up for her notification-only news at: www.karenfenech.com/books.html
Next Release: BREATH OF MALICE
http://www.amazon.com/Breath-Malice-K...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 117 reviews
October 30, 2018
So I have attempted to write this review a couple of times now but I guess goodreads didnt like it because it wasnt saved. So let me try this again.
This book is thrilling. Paige, our heroine, is a strong, brilliant woman. An agent for the bureau following her dream and taking care of her younger disabled sister. Her foundation is shaken when she becomes the prey of a serial killer.
I read this book from cover to cover and I was on the edge of my seat half the time I was reading. I will say this, though, this book is not for anyone with a weak stomach. Karen Fenech wrote an exceptional storyline and did not shy away from the ugly. So grab the book or add it to your TBR list. Just be sure to read it.
This book is thrilling. Paige, our heroine, is a strong, brilliant woman. An agent for the bureau following her dream and taking care of her younger disabled sister. Her foundation is shaken when she becomes the prey of a serial killer.
I read this book from cover to cover and I was on the edge of my seat half the time I was reading. I will say this, though, this book is not for anyone with a weak stomach. Karen Fenech wrote an exceptional storyline and did not shy away from the ugly. So grab the book or add it to your TBR list. Just be sure to read it.
July 8, 2016
When FBI agent Paige Carson catches a serial killer's attention, she along with her special needs sister find themselves living (hiding) in a small South Carolina town. This is not their first move but Paige was hoping it would be their last. Reality soon comes crashes down when she realized the killer has found her again.
Paige works for Special Agent Sam McKade, who suspects that Paige has been hiding something. When Paige realizes the threat has returned she takes a chance and opens up to Sam. Together they work the case and confront the attraction they feel for each other.
The mystery and suspense in Breath of Malice kept me engaged as Fenech delivered several nail-biting twists. Fenech did a great job of sharing Paige's fear and terror brought on by this twisted villain. I struggled a little with Paige as a person. Some of the decisions she made both in the case and with her sister irked me. While, the author allowed me to understand I disagreed. This may have affected the romantic aspect of the story for me.
The serial killer Thames was the perfect villain and the way he torments Paige will make your skin crawl. He seems to be everywhere and know everything! I love this type of edge of your seat threat. The entire storyline regarding his career and subsequent stalking was nicely developed.
The relationship that developed between Sam and Paige fell flat for me, even if I found them well suited. Normally I am ok with insta-love in romantic suspense, but in Breath of Malice there was not enough air to fan the flames, Sadly I did not become caught up in their chemistry. There were moments that were sweet and felt genuine but that sizzle was missing.
Christina Traister narrated and I enjoyed listening to her. She gave each character a unique voice and set the tone of the story. I would definitely consider books narrated by her.
Breathe of Malice was a good, quick, engaging listen but not necessarily one I will remember a year from now.
Audiobook provided by publisher. This review was originally posted on Caffeinated Book Reviewer
Paige works for Special Agent Sam McKade, who suspects that Paige has been hiding something. When Paige realizes the threat has returned she takes a chance and opens up to Sam. Together they work the case and confront the attraction they feel for each other.
The mystery and suspense in Breath of Malice kept me engaged as Fenech delivered several nail-biting twists. Fenech did a great job of sharing Paige's fear and terror brought on by this twisted villain. I struggled a little with Paige as a person. Some of the decisions she made both in the case and with her sister irked me. While, the author allowed me to understand I disagreed. This may have affected the romantic aspect of the story for me.
The serial killer Thames was the perfect villain and the way he torments Paige will make your skin crawl. He seems to be everywhere and know everything! I love this type of edge of your seat threat. The entire storyline regarding his career and subsequent stalking was nicely developed.
The relationship that developed between Sam and Paige fell flat for me, even if I found them well suited. Normally I am ok with insta-love in romantic suspense, but in Breath of Malice there was not enough air to fan the flames, Sadly I did not become caught up in their chemistry. There were moments that were sweet and felt genuine but that sizzle was missing.
Christina Traister narrated and I enjoyed listening to her. She gave each character a unique voice and set the tone of the story. I would definitely consider books narrated by her.
Breathe of Malice was a good, quick, engaging listen but not necessarily one I will remember a year from now.
Audiobook provided by publisher. This review was originally posted on Caffeinated Book Reviewer
August 10, 2016
***** 5 "Hunting Love" Stars *****
Paige is running from her past. A past filled with bad choices all in the name for advancing her young career as a FBI Agent. A bad choice of taking care of her sister after a car accident that killed her parents and left her sister in a wheel chair. Choices she thought were good but now that she looks back on them, are all filled with self preservation.
As Paige uproots her and her sister's life once again to hide from a killer. A killer who is dead set on getting his hands on Paige and ending her life.
Paige finds a small town to stake roots in and hopefully give her sister a normal life once and for all. Starting in a small FBI office, Paige meets Sam.
Sam is the head of this small town office but leads a tough group of guys that although are located in the middle of no where, but still working on high profile cases.
Sam is leary at first of Paige, knowing her history, but soon finds she is stronger than he ever thought. Strong enough to pull his heart into her darkness that she is trying to escape from.
Sam and Paige's heat is undeniable and it doesn't take long for them to act on their passion. Paige doesn't want to get Sam and everyone he loves hurt so she tries pushing Sam away.
"I can't be this way with you."
"Don't be any way, just be Paige."
Just when Sam thinks he has Paige convinced she is not doing anything to Sam and his safety, Paige does the unthinkable and unleashes pure evil and puts her life and others in serious danger unless Sam and his crew can piece things together quick.
This book was AWESOME! I know it bothers some, but there is insta love in this book but it is written well so it didn't bother me at all. Thank you Miss Fenech!!
Paige is running from her past. A past filled with bad choices all in the name for advancing her young career as a FBI Agent. A bad choice of taking care of her sister after a car accident that killed her parents and left her sister in a wheel chair. Choices she thought were good but now that she looks back on them, are all filled with self preservation.
As Paige uproots her and her sister's life once again to hide from a killer. A killer who is dead set on getting his hands on Paige and ending her life.
Paige finds a small town to stake roots in and hopefully give her sister a normal life once and for all. Starting in a small FBI office, Paige meets Sam.
Sam is the head of this small town office but leads a tough group of guys that although are located in the middle of no where, but still working on high profile cases.
Sam is leary at first of Paige, knowing her history, but soon finds she is stronger than he ever thought. Strong enough to pull his heart into her darkness that she is trying to escape from.
Sam and Paige's heat is undeniable and it doesn't take long for them to act on their passion. Paige doesn't want to get Sam and everyone he loves hurt so she tries pushing Sam away.
"I can't be this way with you."
"Don't be any way, just be Paige."
Just when Sam thinks he has Paige convinced she is not doing anything to Sam and his safety, Paige does the unthinkable and unleashes pure evil and puts her life and others in serious danger unless Sam and his crew can piece things together quick.
This book was AWESOME! I know it bothers some, but there is insta love in this book but it is written well so it didn't bother me at all. Thank you Miss Fenech!!
March 28, 2016
Breath of Malice gives us a very flawed heroine as we go on the journey with her as she tries to make up for the mistakes she made as a teenager and then as an adult where as a FBI agent she let her ego to prove she was the best get in the way which in turn made her become the hunted of a serial killer instead of the hunter.
Paige Carson hasn’t had it easy. Some of that was her own making but when her parents died in car accident when she was 21 and her sister the only survivor who is know confined to a wheel chair, Paige took on guardianship on her. She went on to become a FBI agent and now after realizing her mistake with the killer has been on the run to keep her sister safe. The latest move has them in a small town in South Caroline where she starts a new job with a small FBI office. It’s not long though before she realizes that the killer has tracked her down again and this time she is through with running.
Sam McKade runs the FBI office that Paige now works for. He is instantly smitten with his new hire but is very aware she is keeping secrets and is very skittish when it comes to letting anyone in emotionally. Paige got burned from her previous boss over the mistake she made in the trying to take down the killer the first time so she is hesitating to tell Sam the truth that she knows he is after her and that a recent murder that just happened in their jurisdiction is the result of him taunting her. Sam had a crappy childhood but he got a good head on his shoulders now and is very supportive of Paige.
I was glad that the author didn’t drag out for too long Paige keeping her secret as that just throws the heroine into a TSTL category which is annoying as a reader. The final confrontation is brutal and graphic for those with weak stomachs. The author did a great job of leading us up to that scene with the slower pacing throughout the book keeping us on the edge of our seats waiting for the big showdown.
Paige Carson hasn’t had it easy. Some of that was her own making but when her parents died in car accident when she was 21 and her sister the only survivor who is know confined to a wheel chair, Paige took on guardianship on her. She went on to become a FBI agent and now after realizing her mistake with the killer has been on the run to keep her sister safe. The latest move has them in a small town in South Caroline where she starts a new job with a small FBI office. It’s not long though before she realizes that the killer has tracked her down again and this time she is through with running.
Sam McKade runs the FBI office that Paige now works for. He is instantly smitten with his new hire but is very aware she is keeping secrets and is very skittish when it comes to letting anyone in emotionally. Paige got burned from her previous boss over the mistake she made in the trying to take down the killer the first time so she is hesitating to tell Sam the truth that she knows he is after her and that a recent murder that just happened in their jurisdiction is the result of him taunting her. Sam had a crappy childhood but he got a good head on his shoulders now and is very supportive of Paige.
I was glad that the author didn’t drag out for too long Paige keeping her secret as that just throws the heroine into a TSTL category which is annoying as a reader. The final confrontation is brutal and graphic for those with weak stomachs. The author did a great job of leading us up to that scene with the slower pacing throughout the book keeping us on the edge of our seats waiting for the big showdown.
June 23, 2016
BREATH OF MALICE
Written by Karen Fenech
JUNE 14, 2016; 240 Pages
Genre: suspense, romance, mystery
3.5 STARS
(I received an ARC from the NETGALLEY in exchange for an honest review.)
When Agent Paige Carson makes a mistake her F.B.I. colleagues start to freeze her out hoping she will leave. It is when a serial killer sends a postcard to her new home that she packs up her life and younger sister and heads to a small town. Paige's boss and team accept her quickly but know she has some secret that makes her skittish. When a wealthy well-known woman is killed and there is a postcard by the body, Paige knows the killer has found her again! She can either rely on her boss, and love interest, or go at it alone with everyone's life on the line.
I really liked this novel and felt that it had everything a romantic suspense book should have, BUT I did a few problems with it that made me rate it 3.5 stars. I felt the romance moved too fast and became too intense without any background or motivation for it. Then the romance started to take away from the suspense. This seems to be Karen Fenech's first standalone romantic suspense book so I think her books will only get better. I am curious to read her romantic suspense series to see if they are more drawn out. I do recommend this book as it is enjoyable - full of suspense and a crazy villain.
k (My Novelesque Life)
Written by Karen Fenech
JUNE 14, 2016; 240 Pages
Genre: suspense, romance, mystery
3.5 STARS
(I received an ARC from the NETGALLEY in exchange for an honest review.)
When Agent Paige Carson makes a mistake her F.B.I. colleagues start to freeze her out hoping she will leave. It is when a serial killer sends a postcard to her new home that she packs up her life and younger sister and heads to a small town. Paige's boss and team accept her quickly but know she has some secret that makes her skittish. When a wealthy well-known woman is killed and there is a postcard by the body, Paige knows the killer has found her again! She can either rely on her boss, and love interest, or go at it alone with everyone's life on the line.
I really liked this novel and felt that it had everything a romantic suspense book should have, BUT I did a few problems with it that made me rate it 3.5 stars. I felt the romance moved too fast and became too intense without any background or motivation for it. Then the romance started to take away from the suspense. This seems to be Karen Fenech's first standalone romantic suspense book so I think her books will only get better. I am curious to read her romantic suspense series to see if they are more drawn out. I do recommend this book as it is enjoyable - full of suspense and a crazy villain.
k (My Novelesque Life)
February 6, 2018
This was a good "crazy" book. Paige was a fighter from the beginning after the accident. Loved Sam and the psychopath was just that wooo the things he did. This was the first book I have read by this author and I will be reading more from her.
June 25, 2016
I was drawn to this title because I needed to mix things up a bit and the synopsis intrigued me. It was a nice change of pace to have the element of suspense mixed into the romance and I enjoyed the experience.
Suspense is not something I gravitate towards. I suspect that is because often times the storyline is something with real potential and that just makes it more intense for me. When a movie is suspenseful, I tend to plug my ears so I can watch without the sound effects. You can't do that with a book and I am certain I entertained my husband with my antics while reading this book.
The story definitely had intense moments and I have the chewed up fingernails to prove it. The budding romance helped to offset that intensity and I enjoyed watching Paige and Sam succumb to their feelings.
Overall I enjoyed the characters and the story though it dragged a bit at times. There were times the story felt too detailed and I took reading breaks to mitigate my disinterest, hence the long reading period, but I am glad I pushed through and finished.
I was provided a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Suspense is not something I gravitate towards. I suspect that is because often times the storyline is something with real potential and that just makes it more intense for me. When a movie is suspenseful, I tend to plug my ears so I can watch without the sound effects. You can't do that with a book and I am certain I entertained my husband with my antics while reading this book.
The story definitely had intense moments and I have the chewed up fingernails to prove it. The budding romance helped to offset that intensity and I enjoyed watching Paige and Sam succumb to their feelings.
Overall I enjoyed the characters and the story though it dragged a bit at times. There were times the story felt too detailed and I took reading breaks to mitigate my disinterest, hence the long reading period, but I am glad I pushed through and finished.
I was provided a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
dnf
May 4, 2017DNF @ 35%
I don't know if I'm just having an off day, but I struggled reading this one. The writing felt... stilted and I just couldn't get into the story :-(So I'm giving up.
June 13, 2016
4.5 stars
“Breath of Malice” by Karen Fenech is a contemporary romantic suspense novel that follows FBI Special Agent Paige Carson who has had the misfortune to cross paths with a serial killer, and play a significant but unfortunately almost career-ending role in his arrest. Despite the man’s arrest, he has managed to torment Paige, and she finally flees with her younger sister, Ivy, to another state. FBI Special Agent in Charge Sam McKade is delighted to get a new agent but wary about her motives for moving to his town and concerned that she won’t remain. Soon, he also develops personal reasons for wanting Paige around, but she holds many secrets and fears, and some of them may end up being deadly for her and those around her.
This fast-moving and thrilling tale combines the danger and mystery of a cat-and-mouse game with a serial killer with a romance that plays out in a small-town environment. I enjoyed the rising tension that continues to escalate throughout the story and even though I was a little frustrated by the heroine at times, I could understand her motivation to protect her sister even though I didn’t agree with her motives and her failure to explain things. I enjoyed Sam and his son, even though Sam’s immediate desire to solve problems for Paige somewhat diminishes her competency as an agent and their burgeoning relationship ostensibly should have been more of an issue given the difference in their positions. Despite this, I was enthralled by the tale and rushed through because I couldn’t wait to find out how things played out…until the climax. This is definitely not a tale for those who have weak stomachs and I can’t say that I was thrilled by the final developments, as the timing was a little odd for me and, wow, one wonders about the future and how things will develop. I don’t know about the characters themselves, but I certainly had uneasy feelings for the next few days, which is a tribute to the vivid storytelling by this author. I think that those who are in the mood for an exciting and hair-raising tale will enjoy this story and I hope to see more about these characters in the future.
A copy of this title was provided to me for review
“Breath of Malice” by Karen Fenech is a contemporary romantic suspense novel that follows FBI Special Agent Paige Carson who has had the misfortune to cross paths with a serial killer, and play a significant but unfortunately almost career-ending role in his arrest. Despite the man’s arrest, he has managed to torment Paige, and she finally flees with her younger sister, Ivy, to another state. FBI Special Agent in Charge Sam McKade is delighted to get a new agent but wary about her motives for moving to his town and concerned that she won’t remain. Soon, he also develops personal reasons for wanting Paige around, but she holds many secrets and fears, and some of them may end up being deadly for her and those around her.
This fast-moving and thrilling tale combines the danger and mystery of a cat-and-mouse game with a serial killer with a romance that plays out in a small-town environment. I enjoyed the rising tension that continues to escalate throughout the story and even though I was a little frustrated by the heroine at times, I could understand her motivation to protect her sister even though I didn’t agree with her motives and her failure to explain things. I enjoyed Sam and his son, even though Sam’s immediate desire to solve problems for Paige somewhat diminishes her competency as an agent and their burgeoning relationship ostensibly should have been more of an issue given the difference in their positions. Despite this, I was enthralled by the tale and rushed through because I couldn’t wait to find out how things played out…until the climax. This is definitely not a tale for those who have weak stomachs and I can’t say that I was thrilled by the final developments, as the timing was a little odd for me and, wow, one wonders about the future and how things will develop. I don’t know about the characters themselves, but I certainly had uneasy feelings for the next few days, which is a tribute to the vivid storytelling by this author. I think that those who are in the mood for an exciting and hair-raising tale will enjoy this story and I hope to see more about these characters in the future.
A copy of this title was provided to me for review
June 27, 2016
This book was actually a good suprise because I was not put faith in the plot.
Paige Carson is a federal agent that after a bad combination of pride and not acting when was she have to now she is focus of a serial killer Thames who is going to be released in a few weeks-of course she is long way from where she was yet he seems to follow her everyone. Not bullshit here the author don't waste with flashbacks or she is like this or like that. NOPE. Right to the action.
Paige is a small city where she meets our H Sam who also has a shit background-drunk father and feeling that he will be replace by a new stepafather- but don't fear he actually is a very nice guy. The interactions btw them was about work and they too were analysing each other. The romance was ok yet the 3 words was too soon for me.
Thames as we know is after Paige-poor girl. Actually she is a flawless character she knows that she made a huge mistake and yet will sacrifice her life for the ones she love. The sisterhood with Ivy was so restrained that I felt bad for both and still was walking for a good future.
The author did a good job with the storyline and how everything was to the big finale.
Pause to the final shot in the cave!!!!!! I cringe everytime that I remember, poor feet, poor arms.
Good combination of romance AND suspense.<<--- first author who actually honor that genre.
Paige Carson is a federal agent that after a bad combination of pride and not acting when was she have to now she is focus of a serial killer Thames who is going to be released in a few weeks-of course she is long way from where she was yet he seems to follow her everyone. Not bullshit here the author don't waste with flashbacks or she is like this or like that. NOPE. Right to the action.
Paige is a small city where she meets our H Sam who also has a shit background-drunk father and feeling that he will be replace by a new stepafather- but don't fear he actually is a very nice guy. The interactions btw them was about work and they too were analysing each other. The romance was ok yet the 3 words was too soon for me.
Thames as we know is after Paige-poor girl. Actually she is a flawless character she knows that she made a huge mistake and yet will sacrifice her life for the ones she love. The sisterhood with Ivy was so restrained that I felt bad for both and still was walking for a good future.
The author did a good job with the storyline and how everything was to the big finale.
Pause to the final shot in the cave!!!!!! I cringe everytime that I remember, poor feet, poor arms.
Good combination of romance AND suspense.<<--- first author who actually honor that genre.
March 4, 2017
Breath of Malice is a less than average romantic suspense. The plot is unoriginal and the suspense is very low key. I got bored with the characters and the story line very quickly.
I received a review copy via Netgalley
I received a review copy via Netgalley
July 3, 2017
I don't know if it was what went on towards the end, the ending itself, the heroine or the writing. Maybe it was all of the above. It just did not click for me.
July 27, 2020
2.5 Stars - the romance nor the heroine worked for me in this one. It was instant love and the fact that Sam was her boss was never even mentioned which I found VERY weird. The heroine's decisions just didn't always make much sense to me and sometimes she seemed like a frightened rabbit and other times she was this super courageous agent. Definitely not my favorite romantic suspense.
July 25, 2016
FBI Special Agent Paige Carson had been on the trail of serial killer Todd Thames for 5 months. It was her first case, and Paige is very ambitious: she wanted to look good, advance her career, and she defied her orders; she was going to catch Thames. That was her big mistake: Thames got released on a legal technicality; Paige’s colleagues resented her and made her life very difficult. And she got a blank postcard from Thames. A year later, after resettling to Denver, she got another postcard. Her Manhattan bosses didn’t believe Thames had sent her a postcard, why should her new ones care. Paige knew Thames wouldn’t rest until he killed her. Dragging her wheelchair-bound 15 year-old sister to Coledon, in the FBI office of Kirk County, South Carolina, Paige tries to make a new life for herself, hoping Thames will not find her again.
Paige’s new boss Sam McKade senses that there is more to Paige’s story about needing a quiet place to work. But when a woman is murdered in Coledon, and a blank postcard lies next to the body, Paige knows Thames has found her…
BREATH OF MALICE is my definition of what romantic suspense is all about! Ms. Fenech has woven a tightly-plotted story, with many twists and turns, and without a single dull moment. Every character is well defined and felt absolutely genuine. The progressed organically, and oh, how I would like to find my own Sam McKade! What a fabulous hero! The author did some serious research, because everything about the FBI came across as totally realistic: the agents, their offices, their way of investigating; it never felt like Hollywood. Paige is far from perfect: she is so obsessed by Thames, it’s become an obsession, and she’s ruining her life and her sister’s. She is too proud and independent, but how she realises the error of her ways was exceptionally well done, and not formulaic at all. I got goose bumps several times, and I could not read fast enough to reach the end, and what a conclusion it was! I somewhat expected what happened, but never in my wildest dreams did I anticipate how it was dealt with! Brilliant!
BREATH OF MALICE is a gripping suspense, with a very realistic romance, and exceptionally complex and well-rounded characters. I hope that Karen Fenech is considering giving Harry Platt his own book; I adored him and I would love to read more about him!
A Book Obsessed Chicks Review Team Selection
Paige’s new boss Sam McKade senses that there is more to Paige’s story about needing a quiet place to work. But when a woman is murdered in Coledon, and a blank postcard lies next to the body, Paige knows Thames has found her…
BREATH OF MALICE is my definition of what romantic suspense is all about! Ms. Fenech has woven a tightly-plotted story, with many twists and turns, and without a single dull moment. Every character is well defined and felt absolutely genuine. The progressed organically, and oh, how I would like to find my own Sam McKade! What a fabulous hero! The author did some serious research, because everything about the FBI came across as totally realistic: the agents, their offices, their way of investigating; it never felt like Hollywood. Paige is far from perfect: she is so obsessed by Thames, it’s become an obsession, and she’s ruining her life and her sister’s. She is too proud and independent, but how she realises the error of her ways was exceptionally well done, and not formulaic at all. I got goose bumps several times, and I could not read fast enough to reach the end, and what a conclusion it was! I somewhat expected what happened, but never in my wildest dreams did I anticipate how it was dealt with! Brilliant!
BREATH OF MALICE is a gripping suspense, with a very realistic romance, and exceptionally complex and well-rounded characters. I hope that Karen Fenech is considering giving Harry Platt his own book; I adored him and I would love to read more about him!
A Book Obsessed Chicks Review Team Selection
June 11, 2019
3/5 ⭐️
I enjoyed this but honestly it was just okay to me. It’s nothing that blew me away.
I enjoyed this but honestly it was just okay to me. It’s nothing that blew me away.
October 30, 2016
This book was a page-turner, a fast-paced thriller about an FBI agent who moved from New York to Denver to South Carolina with her disabled younger sister in an attempt to flee from a serial killer. The killer always tracks her down and makes her aware he knows where she is. She fears for her life and the life of her sister. In S.C., she falls in love with the agent in charge of her office and is finally able to tell him what she is afraid of and hiding. Persons she cares about are put in danger, and it appears that she will be killed by the serial killer. The book is a love story as well as a crime novel. Readers are kept on the edge of their seats as the story plays out to its dramatic conclusion.
October 25, 2017
Just don’t do it, move that finger away from the “one click” button! The story started out decent but plummeted to a hot mess of unsatisfactory! You were married for how long and she never asked about a tattoo? In the course of a few pages, she goes from going it alone to needing him? Major trauma from the kidnapping and she is admitted to a county hospital states away? Major trauma was having visitors? Nope!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 1, 2022
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️- Excellent - Highly Recommended
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - A good, solid read
3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️ - An okay read
2 ⭐️⭐️ - Meh
1 ⭐️ - Not my cup of tea
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - A good, solid read
3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️ - An okay read
2 ⭐️⭐️ - Meh
1 ⭐️ - Not my cup of tea
October 21, 2016
What a truly gripping book! Fantastic story and writing.
A must for all crime/romance fans!
A must for all crime/romance fans!
March 14, 2018
To be honest I didn't enjoy this book at all. I found Paige really annoying and I didn't find the story at all believable. I don't think I'll be reading/listening any more by this author.
May 9, 2017
When Paige Turner help takes down a serial killer, she should have received praise and possibly a promotion as if it hadn't been for her then he would still be on the run killing people. However, things don't tend to work out the way they should in life and her capturing backfired as though he went to prison. Paige was targeted by the killer, and then when she went for help from her co-workers, she was mocked. This forced her to pack up and leave and just when life was starting to look up for Paige and her sister Ivy whom she is a guardian for, Paige is sent a postcard from Todd Thames - the suspected serial killer. No matter where she goes, he finds her and threatens Ivy and Paige's livelihood. Paige fearing for their lives puts in for a transfer to a small town FBI branch with the hopes that being out in the middle of nowhere that Todd Thames can't locate her. However, life and our pasts have a funny way of catching up with us and that no matter how far we try to distance ourselves or forget the situation, it will always come crashing into our current realities. Just as Paige and Ivy are settling in and Paige is starting a possible relationship with fellow FBI agent Sam, news that Todd Thames has been released is revealed, and Todd is coming for Paige and will do anything to make sure he gets her. Even if that means coming for the ones she loves which now includes Sam and his son Jonah. Will her new team be more supportive and help her stop Todd Thames before she or anyone else she cares about becomes his next victim? Find out in this FBI mystery novel "Breath of Malice" by Karen Fenech.
June 12, 2020
*this book was given to me in exchange for an honest review*
4-4.5 stars!
Suspenseful, edgy, emotional, and heartwarming..that’s how I’d describe the first book in the Malice series. Federal Agent Paige Carson, always like things in her terms. That quality, ultimately cost Paige her reputation as an agent, and played well to the hands of s serial killer. After a confrontation with the killer before he was apprehended, he started his game with Paige. He’s continues to stalk Paige, and she continues to run..which excites him. Paige, who’s also raising her handicapped sister, uproots Ivy, and moves every time Thames (serial killer) sends a message. She ends up in a smaller community, hoping she and Ivy are safe, and not only finds a new home and lover, but also Thames.
Federal Agent Sam McKade welcomes Paige’s transfer to his office. In addition to being intrigued by her file (as her experience with Thame is well known), Sam also finds this undeniable attraction towards her. As her superior, he tries to keep his distance, but their chemistry is too strong. Once he’s able to get Paige to lower her walls a bit, he finds clues from her past that directly relates to their latest high-profile homicide. Sam, Paige, and the rest of their agents work to take down the recently released killer.
Great story..very suspenseful. This book can easily be read as a stand-alone.
4-4.5 stars!
Suspenseful, edgy, emotional, and heartwarming..that’s how I’d describe the first book in the Malice series. Federal Agent Paige Carson, always like things in her terms. That quality, ultimately cost Paige her reputation as an agent, and played well to the hands of s serial killer. After a confrontation with the killer before he was apprehended, he started his game with Paige. He’s continues to stalk Paige, and she continues to run..which excites him. Paige, who’s also raising her handicapped sister, uproots Ivy, and moves every time Thames (serial killer) sends a message. She ends up in a smaller community, hoping she and Ivy are safe, and not only finds a new home and lover, but also Thames.
Federal Agent Sam McKade welcomes Paige’s transfer to his office. In addition to being intrigued by her file (as her experience with Thame is well known), Sam also finds this undeniable attraction towards her. As her superior, he tries to keep his distance, but their chemistry is too strong. Once he’s able to get Paige to lower her walls a bit, he finds clues from her past that directly relates to their latest high-profile homicide. Sam, Paige, and the rest of their agents work to take down the recently released killer.
Great story..very suspenseful. This book can easily be read as a stand-alone.
December 5, 2017
Not A Bedtime Story
My first thought as I finish reading “Breath of Malice” is, Karen Fenech certainly knows how to portray evil. This story will not only keep you on the edge of your seat, it’ll keep you up all night because you know if you close your eyes you’re gonna’ have nightmares. The protagonist, Paige Carson, is a federal agent who is caught up with a serial killer in a deadly game of cat and mouse. She and her wheelchair-bound teenage sister have moved three times attempting to stay off his radar. Their last move lands them in rural South Carolina where she meets and falls in love with SAC Sam McKade. The characters were generally well drawn, however I got impatient with Agent Carson’s martyr complex. Some of that was over the top. The storyline on the other hand, was well developed with enough twists to keep me reading straight through. So, if you like a good thriller, this is one I can recommend. Just don’t start reading it at bedtime.
My first thought as I finish reading “Breath of Malice” is, Karen Fenech certainly knows how to portray evil. This story will not only keep you on the edge of your seat, it’ll keep you up all night because you know if you close your eyes you’re gonna’ have nightmares. The protagonist, Paige Carson, is a federal agent who is caught up with a serial killer in a deadly game of cat and mouse. She and her wheelchair-bound teenage sister have moved three times attempting to stay off his radar. Their last move lands them in rural South Carolina where she meets and falls in love with SAC Sam McKade. The characters were generally well drawn, however I got impatient with Agent Carson’s martyr complex. Some of that was over the top. The storyline on the other hand, was well developed with enough twists to keep me reading straight through. So, if you like a good thriller, this is one I can recommend. Just don’t start reading it at bedtime.
July 2, 2016
I don’t even know where to start I am speechless. What a fast pace action pack suspenseful thrilling chilling read. If you have any doubt how Ms. Fenech became a USA Today bestselling author just pick up this book you will have no doubts after the read. This is one author that has no trouble taking you to the edge again and again as she holds your attention you fall in love with the characters and become so invested in this story you won’t be able to put it down. Serial killers have always been my thing but I am not sure I have read any true crime that is as suspenseful making you hold your breath as you feel the pain of the victims. It won’t take you long when reading you will be saying oh my, oh no, oh please, OMG as you close your eyes and take a deep breath waiting to see what the author has in store for you.
A mad man is on the loose kidnapping women so he can play his game. The stakes in this game just rose as the serial killer takes a major step to get his just deserves desserts. It all started with finding a body and then another and still another for special agent Paige Carson to want to bring this killer to justices. One mistake has her running for her life with the killer one step behind her or is he two steps ahead. Paige use to be a sassy little thing seeking to make a name for herself in her career in the FBI. One night changed all that when she met the killer who she thought would be behind bars for a long time to come. Even behind bars he had a long reach now with him out she is in his sites for a game of hide and seek or is it tag you are it.
The narration was outstanding I am unsure which I like the best the audio or the book. Christina Traister with her many different character voices add so much to this audio. The voices, tones and emotion this narrator gives fit the characters so well. You can feel the pain, sorrow, anger, excitement, fear as each character takes over giving you a listen you won’t be able to put down. I found I was finding things to do around the home so I could listen. Even though I have read the book and loved it I found I had missed things that the audio brought to life. I did feel Sam’s voice was a little flat to my liking. He really didn’t get excited and show much emotion for the most apart until something happened that put not only his loves ones but Paige at risk. I still feel this is a 5 star listen and one you won’t want to miss. There are not any places where the volume is higher or lower, if breaks were taken you could not tell it. The narration gives an easy, exciting listen that will keep you on the edge of your seat ready to fall off as someone plays this cat and mouse game with people lives. Ms. Traister has wonderful voices you have no trouble knowing who is talking and what they are feeling. Her male and female voices are wonderful, I just adore her child voices and the excitement she brings to them. Ms. Traister had me holding my breath one minute and smiling the next as she puts herself out brings you a highly entertaining listen. I truly didn’t want this story to end.
Paige has learnt her lesson she overstep the line once but never again. All she wants is to raise her little sister and work on her career in the FBI. At every turn Todd is there reminding her that he is watching. She moves her family one last time to a nice quite town in South Carolina. Things aren’t going to bad until the senator’s sister is murdered leaving a calling card for Paige. Now she has to prove he did it and find all the bodies he left behind so they can find peace and their families can have closure. This isn’t going to be easy since no one but she understands what the postcard means. He is back and is coming for her to play a new game of lose, pain and death. I really liked Paige she might have been a tough cookie at one time but now she is just holding her own. I felt for her as my heart went out wanting so much to grab her right out of the pages.
Sam is still dealing with a divorce and trying to be the best father for his son. Paige comes in taking his breath away. He knows she is hiding something wondering if she can be trusted when push comes to shove will she stand her ground protecting her unit or will she break leaving them wide open. Sam is a character you would love to take home to mom he is kind, caring and giving. Being handsome hunk doesn’t hurt either. As he spends more time with Paige he is sure she is hiding something and starts to pull her out of her shell. With it comes down to it he will protect her at all cost.
These two have some powerful chemistry which leads to some very heated scenes as the author take you on a ride that will shock and amaze you at the same time. You have wonderful characters with everyday lives making this a very believable read. I promise by the time you turn the last page you will be saying WOW JUST WOW as the author spins one tale after another twisting her way through a very powerful story you won’t forget anytime soon. It is going to be a while before I forget this read or this author. This was an exciting edge of the seat read with the correct balance of romance to make this one of my favorite read of the year. The author reveal all in perfect timing just to add to the depth of excitement to enhance the read. You are pulled in from the first page until the last never knowing just what twist will play out in this chilling, thrilling action packed read which will have you begging for more from this very talented author. Both the book and audio gives the reader/listener so much. I am unable to decide which I like more. I highly recommend this book or audio even both it is a story you won’t want to miss with a great balance to keep you heart beating faster holding on for dear life as the author gives you a read that will touch you all the way to your soul.
A mad man is on the loose kidnapping women so he can play his game. The stakes in this game just rose as the serial killer takes a major step to get his just deserves desserts. It all started with finding a body and then another and still another for special agent Paige Carson to want to bring this killer to justices. One mistake has her running for her life with the killer one step behind her or is he two steps ahead. Paige use to be a sassy little thing seeking to make a name for herself in her career in the FBI. One night changed all that when she met the killer who she thought would be behind bars for a long time to come. Even behind bars he had a long reach now with him out she is in his sites for a game of hide and seek or is it tag you are it.
The narration was outstanding I am unsure which I like the best the audio or the book. Christina Traister with her many different character voices add so much to this audio. The voices, tones and emotion this narrator gives fit the characters so well. You can feel the pain, sorrow, anger, excitement, fear as each character takes over giving you a listen you won’t be able to put down. I found I was finding things to do around the home so I could listen. Even though I have read the book and loved it I found I had missed things that the audio brought to life. I did feel Sam’s voice was a little flat to my liking. He really didn’t get excited and show much emotion for the most apart until something happened that put not only his loves ones but Paige at risk. I still feel this is a 5 star listen and one you won’t want to miss. There are not any places where the volume is higher or lower, if breaks were taken you could not tell it. The narration gives an easy, exciting listen that will keep you on the edge of your seat ready to fall off as someone plays this cat and mouse game with people lives. Ms. Traister has wonderful voices you have no trouble knowing who is talking and what they are feeling. Her male and female voices are wonderful, I just adore her child voices and the excitement she brings to them. Ms. Traister had me holding my breath one minute and smiling the next as she puts herself out brings you a highly entertaining listen. I truly didn’t want this story to end.
Paige has learnt her lesson she overstep the line once but never again. All she wants is to raise her little sister and work on her career in the FBI. At every turn Todd is there reminding her that he is watching. She moves her family one last time to a nice quite town in South Carolina. Things aren’t going to bad until the senator’s sister is murdered leaving a calling card for Paige. Now she has to prove he did it and find all the bodies he left behind so they can find peace and their families can have closure. This isn’t going to be easy since no one but she understands what the postcard means. He is back and is coming for her to play a new game of lose, pain and death. I really liked Paige she might have been a tough cookie at one time but now she is just holding her own. I felt for her as my heart went out wanting so much to grab her right out of the pages.
Sam is still dealing with a divorce and trying to be the best father for his son. Paige comes in taking his breath away. He knows she is hiding something wondering if she can be trusted when push comes to shove will she stand her ground protecting her unit or will she break leaving them wide open. Sam is a character you would love to take home to mom he is kind, caring and giving. Being handsome hunk doesn’t hurt either. As he spends more time with Paige he is sure she is hiding something and starts to pull her out of her shell. With it comes down to it he will protect her at all cost.
These two have some powerful chemistry which leads to some very heated scenes as the author take you on a ride that will shock and amaze you at the same time. You have wonderful characters with everyday lives making this a very believable read. I promise by the time you turn the last page you will be saying WOW JUST WOW as the author spins one tale after another twisting her way through a very powerful story you won’t forget anytime soon. It is going to be a while before I forget this read or this author. This was an exciting edge of the seat read with the correct balance of romance to make this one of my favorite read of the year. The author reveal all in perfect timing just to add to the depth of excitement to enhance the read. You are pulled in from the first page until the last never knowing just what twist will play out in this chilling, thrilling action packed read which will have you begging for more from this very talented author. Both the book and audio gives the reader/listener so much. I am unable to decide which I like more. I highly recommend this book or audio even both it is a story you won’t want to miss with a great balance to keep you heart beating faster holding on for dear life as the author gives you a read that will touch you all the way to your soul.
December 25, 2022
Horrific
Breath of Malice, it should have been A Shroud of Malice.
Thames was not only twisted but thought himself a torturous genius. The torment, physical agony and mental anguish his victims went through was macabre. That Karen Fenech thought up this character and his evil deeds is beyond belief.
Fenech’s novel kept me riveted. I found it difficult to put down, knowing I had to find out what would happen to Agent Paige Carson, her sister Ivy etc. Would there be a future for her to look forward to or would she suffer the same fate as the rest of Thames victims.
I highly recommend this book to anyone that loves a good psychological thriller/ romance.
Breath of Malice, it should have been A Shroud of Malice.
Thames was not only twisted but thought himself a torturous genius. The torment, physical agony and mental anguish his victims went through was macabre. That Karen Fenech thought up this character and his evil deeds is beyond belief.
Fenech’s novel kept me riveted. I found it difficult to put down, knowing I had to find out what would happen to Agent Paige Carson, her sister Ivy etc. Would there be a future for her to look forward to or would she suffer the same fate as the rest of Thames victims.
I highly recommend this book to anyone that loves a good psychological thriller/ romance.
April 25, 2024
I've had this book for a few years and finally got around to reading it. It was such a good book! 📖
What I liked:
• Story kept me on the edge of my seat; I wanted to see what happens next
• The romance between Sam and Paige (little spice in the book 🌶🌶🌶) made me swoon
What I didn't like:
• Even though I liked the romance with Sam and Paige, I wish there was more of a spark with them. I felt like it was insta-love, sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn't for me.
• There were some slow parts of the book which slowed down the story a bit.
There is some grotesque scenes so please be warned if you have a weak stomach.
I highly recommend this book!
What I liked:
• Story kept me on the edge of my seat; I wanted to see what happens next
• The romance between Sam and Paige (little spice in the book 🌶🌶🌶) made me swoon
What I didn't like:
• Even though I liked the romance with Sam and Paige, I wish there was more of a spark with them. I felt like it was insta-love, sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn't for me.
• There were some slow parts of the book which slowed down the story a bit.
There is some grotesque scenes so please be warned if you have a weak stomach.
I highly recommend this book!
June 20, 2017
Had not read anything by this author before, but kept seeing this book...looked interesting, so I ordered it! Wow!!!! The story had me hooked within the first few chapters. It was about that time too, that I ordered another book by this author! Really liked the characters....but have to say that criminals like Thames are the stuff of nightmares! Especially when he could so calmly do what he did to his victims while looking at the world through his vast ego! This is definately an author that I will continue to follow! Good job!
May 2, 2019
Fast Paced Thriller
An FBI agent on the run from a serial killer, finds herself in a new post in a small town. Paige is the FBI agent trying to hide from a serial killer, while raising her sister. The book has both good character development, emotional turmoil and family angst. Plus it has a steamy love story between Paige and her boss Sam. The scenes dealing with the serial killer are graphic, but fit into the narrative. I really enjoyed the book and highly recommend it.
It was a good read and the audiobook was wonderful
An FBI agent on the run from a serial killer, finds herself in a new post in a small town. Paige is the FBI agent trying to hide from a serial killer, while raising her sister. The book has both good character development, emotional turmoil and family angst. Plus it has a steamy love story between Paige and her boss Sam. The scenes dealing with the serial killer are graphic, but fit into the narrative. I really enjoyed the book and highly recommend it.
It was a good read and the audiobook was wonderful
October 5, 2021
1.5 stars..
Another victim of my waiting-to-review period...don't remember how I felt about this one much. However, I see other reviews mentioning insta-love & I know I don't like that. I don't remember connecting with either of the main characters in this one, and have a hard time remembering if it was just less-than-average, or actually unenjoyable. Another reviewer described the h as sometimes coming across like a frightened rabbit, and this made me remember she was hard to take seriously at times, which is never a plus when in want of a strong female h.
Another victim of my waiting-to-review period...don't remember how I felt about this one much. However, I see other reviews mentioning insta-love & I know I don't like that. I don't remember connecting with either of the main characters in this one, and have a hard time remembering if it was just less-than-average, or actually unenjoyable. Another reviewer described the h as sometimes coming across like a frightened rabbit, and this made me remember she was hard to take seriously at times, which is never a plus when in want of a strong female h.
November 21, 2017
Exciting read!!
This was my first book by Karen. I gave this book four stars as it kept me on my toes. The characters were like-able and people you wanted to root for. I wish there was a bit more story to developing the relationship between Paige and Sam though. It just seemed like one day, they were together without much talk about it - especially since he was her boss. She weaved a good story with twists. I look forward to reading the next one :)
This was my first book by Karen. I gave this book four stars as it kept me on my toes. The characters were like-able and people you wanted to root for. I wish there was a bit more story to developing the relationship between Paige and Sam though. It just seemed like one day, they were together without much talk about it - especially since he was her boss. She weaved a good story with twists. I look forward to reading the next one :)
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