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Coffey & Hill #2
The Raven
As part of his regular street performance, a deception specialist who goes by the name The Raven picks his audience's pockets while they watch. It's harmless fun--until he decides to keep the spare wallet a city councilman doesn't seem to miss, hoping for a few extra bucks. When he finds not money but compromising photos of the councilman and his "personal assistants," The Raven hatches a plan to blackmail the man. However, he quickly finds himself in over his head with the Ukrainian Mafia and mired in a life-threatening plot code-named, "Nevermore."
Private investigators Trudi Coffey and Samuel Hill must scramble to sort out the clues--and their complicated feelings for each other--to rescue The Raven and save hundreds of lives from a wildcard bent on revenge.
Mike Nappa snags readers from the first page of this fast-paced thriller--and he never lets go until the end.
Private investigators Trudi Coffey and Samuel Hill must scramble to sort out the clues--and their complicated feelings for each other--to rescue The Raven and save hundreds of lives from a wildcard bent on revenge.
Mike Nappa snags readers from the first page of this fast-paced thriller--and he never lets go until the end.
432 pages, Paperback
Published September 6, 2016
39 people are currently reading
723 people want to read
About the author
Mike Nappa
114 books132 followersMike Nappa (M.A.B.T, M.A.E., B.A.C.E.) is an multiple-award-winning novelist, memoirist, and theologian known for writing thought-provoking, fast-paced fiction as well as "coffee-shop theology," inspirational books, and children's books and products.
A prolific author of numerous books and over 1,000 articles, his works have been translated into many languages, with millions of copies sold worldwide. His highlight reel includes VeggieTales Super Comics, the Bible-Smart Q&A commentary, and the award-winning Coffey and Hill series of suspense novels.
Mike is proud to be a person of color (Arab-American) active in the publishing industry. Learn more about Mikey by Googling his name, or checking him out on Amazon or Spotify.
§§§
To contact Mike Nappa, you can ask him a question on Goodreads or use the Contact Form on his website.
A prolific author of numerous books and over 1,000 articles, his works have been translated into many languages, with millions of copies sold worldwide. His highlight reel includes VeggieTales Super Comics, the Bible-Smart Q&A commentary, and the award-winning Coffey and Hill series of suspense novels.
Mike is proud to be a person of color (Arab-American) active in the publishing industry. Learn more about Mikey by Googling his name, or checking him out on Amazon or Spotify.
§§§
To contact Mike Nappa, you can ask him a question on Goodreads or use the Contact Form on his website.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
December 12, 2016
Atlanta, GA. West Midtown. PI Trudi Coffey (Samuels’ ex, Coffey & Hill Investigations) is at the Ritz-Carleton hotel & walks in on the beating of the Raven (aka, street magician).
He is being worked over by Viktor’s Kostiuk (lieutenant) right hand man Pavlo (thug) as Scholarship (thug) looks on while eating Raven’s PB&J sandwich.
Raven has several items of Maksym “Max” Romanenko (Roman Development Corp., gangster boss, Nester’s grandson) in his possession.
3/17, Atlanta, GA. Mama Bliss June Monroe (wheelchair) owned a curio shop called Sister Bliss’s Secret Stash.
Employees are: Darrent Eugene Hayes (inventory mgmt., MBA, Georgia St. U) & Alvin.
If you wanted to know about something, someone or anything in Little Five Points you went to her.
Detective Samuel “Sam” Eric Douglas Hill (Trudi’s ex, Zone #6; APD, retired US Army Special Forces, CIA) paid her a visit.
Atlanta, GA. West Midtown. PI Trudi Coffey asked her secretary Eulalie Marie Jefferson about any new clients.
Max & his thugs also came to pay Mama Bliss a visit.
Trudi & the Raven go out to dinner at the Eclipse de Luna restaurant.
What would happen in the ball room of the Ritz-Carleton Atlanta hotel?
Warning: This book is for adults only & contains extreme violent or graphic adult content or profanity &/or sexually explicit scenarios. It may be offensive to some readers.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written thriller book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great thriller movie, or better yet a mini TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is a very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free Goodreads; MakingConnections; Revell (Baker Publishing Group); paperback book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
He is being worked over by Viktor’s Kostiuk (lieutenant) right hand man Pavlo (thug) as Scholarship (thug) looks on while eating Raven’s PB&J sandwich.
Raven has several items of Maksym “Max” Romanenko (Roman Development Corp., gangster boss, Nester’s grandson) in his possession.
3/17, Atlanta, GA. Mama Bliss June Monroe (wheelchair) owned a curio shop called Sister Bliss’s Secret Stash.
Employees are: Darrent Eugene Hayes (inventory mgmt., MBA, Georgia St. U) & Alvin.
If you wanted to know about something, someone or anything in Little Five Points you went to her.
Detective Samuel “Sam” Eric Douglas Hill (Trudi’s ex, Zone #6; APD, retired US Army Special Forces, CIA) paid her a visit.
Atlanta, GA. West Midtown. PI Trudi Coffey asked her secretary Eulalie Marie Jefferson about any new clients.
Max & his thugs also came to pay Mama Bliss a visit.
Trudi & the Raven go out to dinner at the Eclipse de Luna restaurant.
What would happen in the ball room of the Ritz-Carleton Atlanta hotel?
Warning: This book is for adults only & contains extreme violent or graphic adult content or profanity &/or sexually explicit scenarios. It may be offensive to some readers.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written thriller book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great thriller movie, or better yet a mini TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is a very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free Goodreads; MakingConnections; Revell (Baker Publishing Group); paperback book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
August 30, 2020
Enjoyed the quirky humor most of all. The way that the story was told by opening with a critical part of the novel and then going back in time to share what lead up to that moment was engaging. Interesting mystery filled with fallible characters and the charming Coffey & Hill.
My gratitude to Rel of Relz Reviewz and publisher Revell for a complimentary copy of the novel.
My gratitude to Rel of Relz Reviewz and publisher Revell for a complimentary copy of the novel.
December 17, 2021
I listened to this book back and forth to work and caught myself laughing out loud. The Raven is a magician or as he called himself a deception specialist. He cracked me up. I am trying to think of the best way to describe this book. I guess I would call it a humorous, mystery thriller with a bit of romantic tension and at times is heartwrenching. I loved how the narrator did The Raven and Trudy. My only thing is that Samuel still hasn't won me over yet. I do hope there will be another book in the near future that allows Samuel to win my heart. Right now I still agree with Trudy. He is a pig. And maybe it was the narrator with her version of his voice that kept me from just not liking him so much. Or maybe that was the author's intent. Over all this is a great book and I highly recommend it.
August 10, 2018
3.5 stars
The Raven was a bit of a disappointment, just because I had loved Annabel Lee SO much when I read it and I didn't feel the same way about this one. The story started off very weird. I found the character the Raven odd and it was strange being in his head for part of the book. I know he wasn't a "bad" guy, but I still didn't like being in his head.
I liked both Coffey and Hill. I do hope their relationship changes and they get back together, but I can see that they have a lot of things that happened which make that unlikely. I didn't care so much about Bliss or what was going on in her life, so the scenes with her I found boring.
The suspense was good, but I felt like it took a while to snag my attention. However, the ending was awesome! So intense and I had a hard time putting the book down.
All in all, The Raven was a book I liked. It wasn't as good as Annabel Lee and took a while to grab my attention. If there is a third book, I don't think I will be quick to read it.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
The Raven was a bit of a disappointment, just because I had loved Annabel Lee SO much when I read it and I didn't feel the same way about this one. The story started off very weird. I found the character the Raven odd and it was strange being in his head for part of the book. I know he wasn't a "bad" guy, but I still didn't like being in his head.
I liked both Coffey and Hill. I do hope their relationship changes and they get back together, but I can see that they have a lot of things that happened which make that unlikely. I didn't care so much about Bliss or what was going on in her life, so the scenes with her I found boring.
The suspense was good, but I felt like it took a while to snag my attention. However, the ending was awesome! So intense and I had a hard time putting the book down.
All in all, The Raven was a book I liked. It wasn't as good as Annabel Lee and took a while to grab my attention. If there is a third book, I don't think I will be quick to read it.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
August 4, 2020
Can Coffey & Hill prevent 'Nevermore'...?
Wow! It's been quite awhile since reading the first Coffey & Hill book, Annabelle Lee, so I'd almost forgotten what to expect when I picked up The Raven. It didn't take me long to get into Mike Nappa's second book in the series, and, honestly, I think this one is my favorite of the two.
In a style somewhat reminiscent of Ted Dekker, Mike Nappa weaves a taut tale of suspense with a definite psychological thriller bent. This gritty story had a little bit of everything, betrayal, manipulation, revenge, regret, lost love, humor, tragedy, redemption, fear, and undeserved grace. Oh, and the nod to another of Poe's poems was perfect.
The Raven is dark, and sometimes a little violent, but I really enjoyed it. I finished the over 420 page book much faster than I usually would one of its length. Needless to say, I'm definitely looking forward to reading the next Coffey & Hill novel...
Wow! It's been quite awhile since reading the first Coffey & Hill book, Annabelle Lee, so I'd almost forgotten what to expect when I picked up The Raven. It didn't take me long to get into Mike Nappa's second book in the series, and, honestly, I think this one is my favorite of the two.
In a style somewhat reminiscent of Ted Dekker, Mike Nappa weaves a taut tale of suspense with a definite psychological thriller bent. This gritty story had a little bit of everything, betrayal, manipulation, revenge, regret, lost love, humor, tragedy, redemption, fear, and undeserved grace. Oh, and the nod to another of Poe's poems was perfect.
The Raven is dark, and sometimes a little violent, but I really enjoyed it. I finished the over 420 page book much faster than I usually would one of its length. Needless to say, I'm definitely looking forward to reading the next Coffey & Hill novel...
September 20, 2016
Having read Annabel Lee, I was quite anxious to read the second installment in the Coffey and Hill series by Mike Nappa. At first I thought I was going to be disappointed, and then I reached chapter seven, and I was hooked. I love the way Nappa takes seemingly disconnected details and pulls them all together into a satisfying ending. I also appreciate the way he is unafraid to tackle events and themes often avoided in Christian literature, but handles them in a way that does not sensationalize them.
When Trudi Coffey first sees, deception specialist, The Raven, he’s in a tight spot. The Raven becomes enamored with this beautiful lady who saves his life, but little did either of them know the trajectory their relationship would take from there. They also had no idea how the men who had placed him in that tight spot would figure so prominently in their future. These men certainly weren’t done with the Raven, and weren’t to be frightened away by Trudi.
Samuel Hill, Trudi’s ex, has made mistakes, big ones, but he still loves Trudi, and will go to any extent to protect her, whether she feels like she needs to be protected or not. Is his trust placed in the right people to assist him in this endeavor? Only time will tell. Has bringing Trudi in on his Nevermore investigation placed her in greater danger? Well, neither one of them is backing down now. While they may not be able to resume their relationship, Trudi and Samuel’s love will be Forevermore.
Then there is Mama Bliss, matriarch of Little Five Points in Atlanta, Georgia. There is much more to that sweet, elderly lady sitting in her wheelchair painting outside the store, Sister Bliss’s Secret Stash, that she opened with her late husband, William, than meets the eye. Much more. Mama Bliss is the character in this story that will grab the reader’s attention and hold it firmly until the end, driving the reader to put off other things that need to be accomplished in order to uncover the truth behind Mama Bliss.
I highly recommend Mike Nappa’s Coffey and Hill series. While The Raven would work fine as a stand-alone read, the reader who has first read Annabel Lee will have greater insights into the characters’ motivations and relationships, and will understand the occasional reference to their previous case. I thank Revell Publishing and the Christian Blog Alliance for providing this book for my honest opinion. I received no monetary compensation for providing this review.
When Trudi Coffey first sees, deception specialist, The Raven, he’s in a tight spot. The Raven becomes enamored with this beautiful lady who saves his life, but little did either of them know the trajectory their relationship would take from there. They also had no idea how the men who had placed him in that tight spot would figure so prominently in their future. These men certainly weren’t done with the Raven, and weren’t to be frightened away by Trudi.
Samuel Hill, Trudi’s ex, has made mistakes, big ones, but he still loves Trudi, and will go to any extent to protect her, whether she feels like she needs to be protected or not. Is his trust placed in the right people to assist him in this endeavor? Only time will tell. Has bringing Trudi in on his Nevermore investigation placed her in greater danger? Well, neither one of them is backing down now. While they may not be able to resume their relationship, Trudi and Samuel’s love will be Forevermore.
Then there is Mama Bliss, matriarch of Little Five Points in Atlanta, Georgia. There is much more to that sweet, elderly lady sitting in her wheelchair painting outside the store, Sister Bliss’s Secret Stash, that she opened with her late husband, William, than meets the eye. Much more. Mama Bliss is the character in this story that will grab the reader’s attention and hold it firmly until the end, driving the reader to put off other things that need to be accomplished in order to uncover the truth behind Mama Bliss.
I highly recommend Mike Nappa’s Coffey and Hill series. While The Raven would work fine as a stand-alone read, the reader who has first read Annabel Lee will have greater insights into the characters’ motivations and relationships, and will understand the occasional reference to their previous case. I thank Revell Publishing and the Christian Blog Alliance for providing this book for my honest opinion. I received no monetary compensation for providing this review.
September 19, 2016
After reading Annabel Lee earlier this year and loving it, I wasn't sure if The Raven would live up to my expectations, but it definitely did! Trudi and Samuel are back with their Love/hate relationship which makes things "interesting" to say the least.
The Raven is a unique street magician (deception specialist) earning a living entertaining people with slight of hand tricks. He finds out the hard way that a little blackmail can lead to life changing consequences. Mama Bliss is very mysterious and intriguing who I found very likable. She owns a shop, Sister Bliss's Secret Stash, that specializes in unique and priceless items.
I highly recommend The Raven by Mike Nappa and can't wait for the next book in the Coffey and Hill series!
The Raven is a unique street magician (deception specialist) earning a living entertaining people with slight of hand tricks. He finds out the hard way that a little blackmail can lead to life changing consequences. Mama Bliss is very mysterious and intriguing who I found very likable. She owns a shop, Sister Bliss's Secret Stash, that specializes in unique and priceless items.
I highly recommend The Raven by Mike Nappa and can't wait for the next book in the Coffey and Hill series!
December 3, 2016
Fans of Christian suspense novels are going to love Mike Nappa's second novel in the Coffey & Hill series, "The Raven". I was blown away by his first book in the series, Annabel Lee, and so I was curious to see if this relatively new-to-me author would again be able to capture my attention with his follow-up book. And boy, did he ever! The Raven was simply riveting, from beginning to end. I was held captive by the entertaining plot equally as much as by the fascinating characters. The Raven is unlike any character I've encountered before, and I couldn't help but like the guy for all of his thieving ways. And just wait until you meet Mama Bliss! I wasn't sure whether I liked her or not, and in the end I think it was a little of both. Nappa has succeeded at raising reader's sympathies for the "good" and the "bad" until you realize that perhaps we are all a bit of each, saved but for the grace of God. Those readers who encountered Trudy and Samuel (the Coffee & Hill investigators) in Annabel Lee will greatly enjoy reconnecting with these characters again in this novel, and while it is not strictly necessary to have read Annabel Lee, I would recommend doing so just for the joy of journeying with them from start to finish. Their relationship is a complex one, with a difficult past and deep hurts all mixed up with a love that won't seem to let either of them go. As such, their story is one that you want to see more of, and of course things aren't perfectly resolved in this second novel regarding what their future holds. As I came to the close of "The Raven" and got a glimpse of the adventure that is to come, I can only imagine what lies in store for these two!
Mike Nappa has once again crafted a clever story that I am certain to return to in the future. His books are the kind that you simply must devour in one sitting, and I am looking forward to the third book in the series. If it's anything like these first two installments, we are in for a treat indeed. I award this book 5 out of 5 stars.
Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
Mike Nappa has once again crafted a clever story that I am certain to return to in the future. His books are the kind that you simply must devour in one sitting, and I am looking forward to the third book in the series. If it's anything like these first two installments, we are in for a treat indeed. I award this book 5 out of 5 stars.
Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.
September 17, 2016
3.5 Stars.
I read and loved Annabel Lee earlier this year and so needless to say I was really looking forward to The Raven, and while it was good it unfortunately didn't quite meet my expectations, I realize that this was probably largely my fault because my expectations were probably unrealistically high. I just never really connected with and "got into" this story the way I did Annabel Lee, I'm not really sure why. It could be because I was in a bit of a reading slump when I started this book and the pace seemed slow to me, also for most of this book it didn't seem to me like there was as much action as I had expected. I did like that the story line really kept me guessing about what was going to happen. I also liked that this book progressed Trudi and Samuel's relationship, I look forward to seeing what happens in their lives next.
Overall, this was a good read that I liked but I don't know that I will read it again, I do however plan to read the next book in the series!
While this book wasn't really my cup of tea, please don't just take my word for it. If this book sounds interesting to you, I recommend that you give it a try.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell publishers in exchange for my honest review, my review was not required to be positive just my honest opinion.
The above is my honest review, all thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own.
I read and loved Annabel Lee earlier this year and so needless to say I was really looking forward to The Raven, and while it was good it unfortunately didn't quite meet my expectations, I realize that this was probably largely my fault because my expectations were probably unrealistically high. I just never really connected with and "got into" this story the way I did Annabel Lee, I'm not really sure why. It could be because I was in a bit of a reading slump when I started this book and the pace seemed slow to me, also for most of this book it didn't seem to me like there was as much action as I had expected. I did like that the story line really kept me guessing about what was going to happen. I also liked that this book progressed Trudi and Samuel's relationship, I look forward to seeing what happens in their lives next.
Overall, this was a good read that I liked but I don't know that I will read it again, I do however plan to read the next book in the series!
While this book wasn't really my cup of tea, please don't just take my word for it. If this book sounds interesting to you, I recommend that you give it a try.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell publishers in exchange for my honest review, my review was not required to be positive just my honest opinion.
The above is my honest review, all thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own.
June 12, 2020
Nappa's second Coffey & Hill novel continues with the Edgar Allan Poe theme. The twisting, turning story will leave readers surprised at who turns out to be good and who turns out to be bad. The Raven is an intriguing character, and his interaction with Trudi drives the story forward in an interesting way. The ending will have readers excited for the upcoming installment, because so many new possibilities and changes could be imminent. All in all, this is a superb series for those who love a great story filled with redemption and a gripping, quickly moving plot.
A street performer, a self proclaimed "deception specialist," goes by the name of The Raven. He unashamedly pockets wallets, jewelry and other items to sell to support himself. Unfortunately for him, he chooses to pickpocket the wrong person, and to make matters worse, he uses the photos he finds to try to blackmail a member of the Ukrainian mafia. Enter PI Trudi Coffey and her ex-husband, police officer Samuel Hill. Trudi meets The Raven and knows he's hiding something. Meanwhile, Samuel is chasing down a mysterious plot called Nevermore and thinks Trudi may be able to help.
A street performer, a self proclaimed "deception specialist," goes by the name of The Raven. He unashamedly pockets wallets, jewelry and other items to sell to support himself. Unfortunately for him, he chooses to pickpocket the wrong person, and to make matters worse, he uses the photos he finds to try to blackmail a member of the Ukrainian mafia. Enter PI Trudi Coffey and her ex-husband, police officer Samuel Hill. Trudi meets The Raven and knows he's hiding something. Meanwhile, Samuel is chasing down a mysterious plot called Nevermore and thinks Trudi may be able to help.
September 30, 2016
RESEÑA COMPLETA EN ESPAÑOL
This series gets better every time.
This book is a new case of private detectives Trudi Coffey and Samuel Hill. Although this story is completely different from the previous one, this new adventure follows the difficult relationship between the protagonists and how they deal with the mystery of his client.
There is much mystery in the book and some things that are related to the story of Edgar Allan Poe, "The Raven". As always, the story has unexpected revelations, and the characters increase the tension in the plot.
I hope there are more books in this series so we can see Trudi and Samuel in more interesting cases as in Annabel Lee and in The Raven.
-I received a book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion, which I did-
This series gets better every time.
This book is a new case of private detectives Trudi Coffey and Samuel Hill. Although this story is completely different from the previous one, this new adventure follows the difficult relationship between the protagonists and how they deal with the mystery of his client.
There is much mystery in the book and some things that are related to the story of Edgar Allan Poe, "The Raven". As always, the story has unexpected revelations, and the characters increase the tension in the plot.
I hope there are more books in this series so we can see Trudi and Samuel in more interesting cases as in Annabel Lee and in The Raven.
-I received a book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion, which I did-
January 30, 2019
This book (this series actually) is quite the hidden gem! I'd not seen any buzz about it and discovered it quite by accident, but I'm so glad I did! This is book 2 in the Coffey and Hill series, but can definitely be read as a stand-alone. They do reference the "Annabel Lee case" occasionally and if you have read the first book, you have that history, but no spoilers are even given in this one regarding book 1. I didn't think it possible, but I think I actually like this one a bit better than the first book.
In keeping with the style of the series, the book has 3 viewpoints and each chapter introduces that viewpoint. One of them is first person and the other 2 are third person. Only the reader gets the omniscient perspective, which I really enjoy. The change in perspectives is not at all confusing and happens at reasonable break-points. This book starts with the perspective of The Raven, a street magician who finds himself caught up in some serious drama while trying to make a quick buck. It then moves to Bliss Monroe, an elderly shop-owner who specializes in unique gift items. She's located in a rough neighborhood, but knows how to hold her own. The third vantage point is Trudi Coffey (of Coffey & Hill). Trudi is spunky and witty and knows how to handle herself in any situation. Truly, I want to be Trudi Coffey when I grow up (even if she is about 8 years younger than me.....)
Samuel Hill (also of Coffey & Hill) has taken a new job as police detective. He gets some warning that a plot with the code-name "Nevermore" is going down - soon. That's all he knows. When he starts to poke around looking for information, he continually comes up empty. Meanwhile for his ex-wife Trudi, it's business as usual at her private detective agency, until she finds herself tangled up with The Raven. As the pieces of the puzzle open up, Samuel, Trudi and Raven have to race against the clock to stop Nevermore from happening.
This book has a very intricate plot-line, great story-telling and prose, fun and witty characters and a fantastic mystery that had me guessing until the end! Great action and overall just a fun book. I highly recommend to anyone who enjoys witticisms, mysteries, suspense, great characters or just good solid writing. Hoping the 3rd installment of this series comes soon!
In keeping with the style of the series, the book has 3 viewpoints and each chapter introduces that viewpoint. One of them is first person and the other 2 are third person. Only the reader gets the omniscient perspective, which I really enjoy. The change in perspectives is not at all confusing and happens at reasonable break-points. This book starts with the perspective of The Raven, a street magician who finds himself caught up in some serious drama while trying to make a quick buck. It then moves to Bliss Monroe, an elderly shop-owner who specializes in unique gift items. She's located in a rough neighborhood, but knows how to hold her own. The third vantage point is Trudi Coffey (of Coffey & Hill). Trudi is spunky and witty and knows how to handle herself in any situation. Truly, I want to be Trudi Coffey when I grow up (even if she is about 8 years younger than me.....)
Samuel Hill (also of Coffey & Hill) has taken a new job as police detective. He gets some warning that a plot with the code-name "Nevermore" is going down - soon. That's all he knows. When he starts to poke around looking for information, he continually comes up empty. Meanwhile for his ex-wife Trudi, it's business as usual at her private detective agency, until she finds herself tangled up with The Raven. As the pieces of the puzzle open up, Samuel, Trudi and Raven have to race against the clock to stop Nevermore from happening.
This book has a very intricate plot-line, great story-telling and prose, fun and witty characters and a fantastic mystery that had me guessing until the end! Great action and overall just a fun book. I highly recommend to anyone who enjoys witticisms, mysteries, suspense, great characters or just good solid writing. Hoping the 3rd installment of this series comes soon!
Read
November 22, 2017For a mysterious thrill ride of shifting allegiances, with devious plots to be undone, look no further than The Raven. I enjoyed reading this novel even more than I did its predecessor, Annabel Lee. Either book could be read as a standalone, but I recommend starting Mike Nappa’s Coffey and Hill series at the beginning if you haven’t already, as the characters grow and develop from one book to the next.
Recurring characters Trudi and Samuel continue to work through their personal issues, while they team up to solve another case. I felt these characters were more sympathetic than in the last book, maybe because they weren’t as hard on each other? Anyway, I do like the direction they seem to be headed, and hope to meet them again in a future installment of this series.
The lead character for this book, besides Trudi and Samuel, is The Raven, a street magician calling himself a deception specialist, whose attempt to blackmail someone lands him in a heap of trouble and smack dab in the thick of something bigger than he would’ve imagined. He’s not your typical lead for a Christian fiction novel, but his cool-headed and somewhat sarcastic analysis of even the most traumatic situations can be quite entertaining. And despite his many flaws, he also manages to be quite sympathetic, and I won’t give details away, but I like where the storyline takes his character arc by the end of the book.
Highly recommended if you enjoy a good mystery, and don’t mind witnessing some violence along the way.
Specific to the Audio Edition:
Romy Nordlinger’s excellent narration does justice to the story, with character voices and storytelling that immerse the reader into the thick of what’s happening. Whether she’s portraying a thug with an accent, or the sarcastically laid back analysis of The Raven, her narration fits just right, and is fun to listen to.
I borrowed this audiobook from my local library via Hoopla. I was not expected to write a review, but wanted to share how much I enjoyed the book.
This review first appeared on my blog at http://karencollier.com/audiobook-rev...
Recurring characters Trudi and Samuel continue to work through their personal issues, while they team up to solve another case. I felt these characters were more sympathetic than in the last book, maybe because they weren’t as hard on each other? Anyway, I do like the direction they seem to be headed, and hope to meet them again in a future installment of this series.
The lead character for this book, besides Trudi and Samuel, is The Raven, a street magician calling himself a deception specialist, whose attempt to blackmail someone lands him in a heap of trouble and smack dab in the thick of something bigger than he would’ve imagined. He’s not your typical lead for a Christian fiction novel, but his cool-headed and somewhat sarcastic analysis of even the most traumatic situations can be quite entertaining. And despite his many flaws, he also manages to be quite sympathetic, and I won’t give details away, but I like where the storyline takes his character arc by the end of the book.
Highly recommended if you enjoy a good mystery, and don’t mind witnessing some violence along the way.
Specific to the Audio Edition:
Romy Nordlinger’s excellent narration does justice to the story, with character voices and storytelling that immerse the reader into the thick of what’s happening. Whether she’s portraying a thug with an accent, or the sarcastically laid back analysis of The Raven, her narration fits just right, and is fun to listen to.
I borrowed this audiobook from my local library via Hoopla. I was not expected to write a review, but wanted to share how much I enjoyed the book.
This review first appeared on my blog at http://karencollier.com/audiobook-rev...
January 11, 2024
This book is a great example of a series that actually makes a sequel almost as good or dare I say better than the 1st book. There are good characters and a compelling story.
March 19, 2018
I enjoyed the story but the two main characters were a bit cheesy and unbelievable. Both of them are just so good looking and upright and great at fighting and doing the right thing. Sorry...but boring. Same reason Superman is boring. One note.
Mama Bliss and the Raven guy were interesting.
Mama Bliss and the Raven guy were interesting.
August 9, 2017
Only because the first book was such a page turner, and this second one was only SLIGHTLY less captivating, do I give this book 4 starts instead of 5. The comedy in this book really is great. I've laughed and cried in this book. Can't wait to see what happens in the next book with Samuel and Trudi. I finished this book in one day haha That should tell you guys how amazing it is.
September 28, 2016
Today's post is about Mike Nappa's book #2 in the Coffey & Hill series called The Raven! While I haven't read book #1, Annabel Lee, this book was a great read as a stand alone, but I'm betting had I read book #1, I would have had a little more of the back story on the characters in this book.
This one was an interesting read..... let me share just a bit about the key players. Private investigators Trudi Coffey and Samuel Hill must scramble to sort out the clues - and their complicated feelings for each other - to rescue The Raven and save hundreds of lives. It is clear that these two investigators were included it the first novel - they are divorced from each other, but running a detective agency together. The chemistry between the two of them make a great addition to the story.
Mama Bliss is a 70+ year old woman who is the matriarch of Little Five Points in Atlanta, Georgia. She appears as though she is a sweet, elderly lady sitting in her wheelchair painting outside the store, Sister Bliss’s Secret Stash, that she opened with her late husband, William. She is grieving the loss of her grandson and she wants revenge.
Enter "The Raven" - a twenty-something guy who is a street magician - a deception specialist - earning a living by entertaining people using "slight of hand" tricks. The Raven sometimes picks pockets sometimes to pay his rent and ends up stealing the wallet of a powerful city councilman. Due to the politician's extra curricular activities and ties with the Ukrainian Mafia, the Raven learns what it means to feel real pain and he ends up with life changing consequences. When he tries to blackmail a councilman, he finds himself in the middle of a wild and very dangerous plot called ‘Nevermore’.
The Raven has elements of suspense, drama, mafia, dirty political dealings, revenge, and more. There is nothing predictable about this story, and it unfolds in a way that causes you to piece together the big picture as you are going along. I definitely recommend this book - it's a little rougher than my normal read - but overall, a great story that keeps you turning pages until the end. I will be heading out to find book #1 in this series to catch all the back story for myself in the event there's a book #3!
I was provided with a complimentary copy of this book from Revell a division of Baker Publishing Group for my honest review and was not required to give a positive review.
This one was an interesting read..... let me share just a bit about the key players. Private investigators Trudi Coffey and Samuel Hill must scramble to sort out the clues - and their complicated feelings for each other - to rescue The Raven and save hundreds of lives. It is clear that these two investigators were included it the first novel - they are divorced from each other, but running a detective agency together. The chemistry between the two of them make a great addition to the story.
Mama Bliss is a 70+ year old woman who is the matriarch of Little Five Points in Atlanta, Georgia. She appears as though she is a sweet, elderly lady sitting in her wheelchair painting outside the store, Sister Bliss’s Secret Stash, that she opened with her late husband, William. She is grieving the loss of her grandson and she wants revenge.
Enter "The Raven" - a twenty-something guy who is a street magician - a deception specialist - earning a living by entertaining people using "slight of hand" tricks. The Raven sometimes picks pockets sometimes to pay his rent and ends up stealing the wallet of a powerful city councilman. Due to the politician's extra curricular activities and ties with the Ukrainian Mafia, the Raven learns what it means to feel real pain and he ends up with life changing consequences. When he tries to blackmail a councilman, he finds himself in the middle of a wild and very dangerous plot called ‘Nevermore’.
The Raven has elements of suspense, drama, mafia, dirty political dealings, revenge, and more. There is nothing predictable about this story, and it unfolds in a way that causes you to piece together the big picture as you are going along. I definitely recommend this book - it's a little rougher than my normal read - but overall, a great story that keeps you turning pages until the end. I will be heading out to find book #1 in this series to catch all the back story for myself in the event there's a book #3!
I was provided with a complimentary copy of this book from Revell a division of Baker Publishing Group for my honest review and was not required to give a positive review.
November 30, 2016
As soon as I finished Annabel Lee I began to eagerly anticipate the next book in the Coffey & Hill series. Mike Nappa's writing style is very compelling. I found myself caught up in all the action and unable to put the book down.
The follow-up novel, The Raven, is even better than the first. Once again Mr. Nappa uses a clever rendering of one of Edgar Allen Poe's famous works. This time the main character is a street performer that goes by the name of The Raven. This character is one that you will grow to like and find yourself cheering for even as he makes bad choice after bad choice. There's just something about him that makes you want better for him.
Another interesting character is Mama Bliss. She's a very beloved fixture in her Atlanta neighborhood. Everyone knows Mama and Mama knows everyone and everything going on in the neighborhood. I really liked her, even when the story started opening up and we find out some questionable things about her, I still liked her.
Then there's Trudy and Samuel, aka Coffey & Hill Investigations. I know there is so much in their past that it seems they will never be a couple again . . . but oh I want them to be! The sparks that fly when they are anywhere near each other make for a fast-paced story. Trudy is spunky and Samuel is suave, which should mix like oil and water but there's an emulsifier from their past relationship that just keeps blending them together.
If you enjoy a suspenseful read that has clever overtones and sizzling undercurrents of romance then this is your book. I recommend going back and reading Annabel Lee first to get all of the context. You can of course read this book as a stand-alone title, but why cheat yourself of the pleasure of getting in at the start?
I received a copy of this book to facilitate my review.
The follow-up novel, The Raven, is even better than the first. Once again Mr. Nappa uses a clever rendering of one of Edgar Allen Poe's famous works. This time the main character is a street performer that goes by the name of The Raven. This character is one that you will grow to like and find yourself cheering for even as he makes bad choice after bad choice. There's just something about him that makes you want better for him.
Another interesting character is Mama Bliss. She's a very beloved fixture in her Atlanta neighborhood. Everyone knows Mama and Mama knows everyone and everything going on in the neighborhood. I really liked her, even when the story started opening up and we find out some questionable things about her, I still liked her.
Then there's Trudy and Samuel, aka Coffey & Hill Investigations. I know there is so much in their past that it seems they will never be a couple again . . . but oh I want them to be! The sparks that fly when they are anywhere near each other make for a fast-paced story. Trudy is spunky and Samuel is suave, which should mix like oil and water but there's an emulsifier from their past relationship that just keeps blending them together.
If you enjoy a suspenseful read that has clever overtones and sizzling undercurrents of romance then this is your book. I recommend going back and reading Annabel Lee first to get all of the context. You can of course read this book as a stand-alone title, but why cheat yourself of the pleasure of getting in at the start?
I received a copy of this book to facilitate my review.
September 24, 2016
As we reunite with Trudi Coffey and her x-husband Samuel Hill they are still together, but really apart. Trudi ends up rescuing The Raven who has gotten in way to deep at blackmailing a member of the Ukrainian Mafia, a magician who has picked the wrong pocket.
We also have Mamma Bliss, who is grieving beyond grief for her lost grandson, and wanting revenge, but who will or who has already paid? Of course, The Raven, in some ways reminds her of her lost loved one, and you see her take him under her wing.
As the events of this book unfold, you won’t know who will be still alive by the end, and for what? Yes, as always greed is involved, but this one also has a bit more, and I found myself quickly absorbed in finding out how this one is going to end, and yet in some ways I didn’t want to know.
This book is pure action; from one second to the next I was wondering who the good and bad guys were. Be ready to be on your toes, and now I can’t wait for the next book in this series.
I received this book through Revell Fiction, and was not required to give a positive review.
We also have Mamma Bliss, who is grieving beyond grief for her lost grandson, and wanting revenge, but who will or who has already paid? Of course, The Raven, in some ways reminds her of her lost loved one, and you see her take him under her wing.
As the events of this book unfold, you won’t know who will be still alive by the end, and for what? Yes, as always greed is involved, but this one also has a bit more, and I found myself quickly absorbed in finding out how this one is going to end, and yet in some ways I didn’t want to know.
This book is pure action; from one second to the next I was wondering who the good and bad guys were. Be ready to be on your toes, and now I can’t wait for the next book in this series.
I received this book through Revell Fiction, and was not required to give a positive review.
September 26, 2016
The Raven is a page-turning suspense! Continuing the Poe theme, this second Coffey & Hill novel features a deception specialist who performs under the name The Raven. While Trudi and Samuel reprise their PI roles, they are a bit more secondary to the overall story line, which also involves the Ukrainian Mafia and a secret plot.
A fast-paced story, The Raven is filled with intrigue, and its twists and turns offer more than a few surprises. Mike Nappa skillfully crafts unique stories and memorable characters, and I’m eager to discover what will happen next as this thrilling series continues!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review. All thoughts expressed are my own.
A fast-paced story, The Raven is filled with intrigue, and its twists and turns offer more than a few surprises. Mike Nappa skillfully crafts unique stories and memorable characters, and I’m eager to discover what will happen next as this thrilling series continues!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review. All thoughts expressed are my own.
June 12, 2020
I've been super excited to read The Raven from the moment I finished Annabel Lee and, I've gotta say, it did not disappoint!
Some books have a way of transporting you and The Raven is exactly that kind of book! Quite a few times, I could've sworn I was in Atlanta, but then I'd hear a noise that didn't belong, look up and realize that no... I was not actually in Atlanta, but still in my room.
Mike Nappa has a way of creating such interesting, realistic, and three dimensional characters that seem to jump off the page!
The Raven was a superb suspense novel that I highly recommend! I can't wait for book three!
Some books have a way of transporting you and The Raven is exactly that kind of book! Quite a few times, I could've sworn I was in Atlanta, but then I'd hear a noise that didn't belong, look up and realize that no... I was not actually in Atlanta, but still in my room.
Mike Nappa has a way of creating such interesting, realistic, and three dimensional characters that seem to jump off the page!
The Raven was a superb suspense novel that I highly recommend! I can't wait for book three!
September 25, 2016
I haven't read the first one in this series (Annabel Lee, Coffey & Hill #1) and maybe that would have made all the difference here.
I felt completely disconnected with the characters, except for maybe The Raven himself. I will read the first book in this series, because I might end up liking Trudi and Samuel.
The Blurb on The Raven actually tells you more about the story than what is actually happening. Did I maybe miss something? All I know is there were too many characters with twists in their tails and also too many genres/categories rolled up in one story. Suspense, mystery, thriller, Christian. Yes, it does work in some instances, but here it fell a bit flat.
I felt completely disconnected with the characters, except for maybe The Raven himself. I will read the first book in this series, because I might end up liking Trudi and Samuel.
The Blurb on The Raven actually tells you more about the story than what is actually happening. Did I maybe miss something? All I know is there were too many characters with twists in their tails and also too many genres/categories rolled up in one story. Suspense, mystery, thriller, Christian. Yes, it does work in some instances, but here it fell a bit flat.
April 1, 2020
Book review- The Raven by Mike Nappa
Reviewed by Amanda Kai
April 1, 2020
The Raven is the second book in Mike Nappa’s “Coffey and Hill” suspense series. This story picks up about a year and a half after the “Annabel Lee” case ends. Trudi Coffey is still running her private investigations firm at a shopping center in Atlanta, and Samuel Hill now works for the Atlanta PD. It appears she’s turned down his suggestion that he return to being her partner full-time, but they do work together on cases that come up from time to time.
Like this one that’s been bugging Samuel. Rumors are floating around town about a plot with the code name “Nevermore”. No one seems to know exactly who is behind it, or what kind of terrorist attack may be planned for the city, but Samuel knows that the word “Nevermore” comes from Edgar Allan Poe’s poem, “The Raven”. Given that his ex-wife is something of an expert, he goes to her to see if she might be able to pinpoint a clue in the prose. But Trudi’s lead comes not from her vast collection of Poe’s works lining the shelves of her office, but from a young street magician she’s met recently, who goes by the name of “Raven.”
Raven narrates a third of the story from his perspective. At just 22 years old, he’s already got a messy history of underage drinking, and a tragic drunk driving accident that led him to run away from home. After that, he bounced from city to city, making a living as a thief and a “deception specialist”- his fancy word for a magician. When Trudi breaks into his apartment and rescues him from being beat up by the Ukrainian mafia, he immediately develops a huge crush on her. Despite the fact that she is ten years his senior and totally out of his league, he is determined to win her over. But first, he’s got to settle his debts with the mafia bosses.
To do that, he has to break into Mama Bliss’ Secret Stash and steal her ledger book. Mama Bliss is a 71-year old lady with a lot more secrets than the memorabilia she sells in her kitchy shop. For starters, she runs an underground gun laundering operation that helps organizations like the CIA and other government alphabet groups. But she also has ties to the same Ukranian mafia group that Raven has ticked off, and a beef with their leader-- businessman and politician Max Roman. She catches Raven breaking into her shop red-handed and offers him a job to come work for her instead.
Trudi and Samuel find out that Mama Bliss has donated an original copy of the magazine that Poe’s poem “The Raven” was first published in for an art auction and benefit dinner at which Max Roman will be speaking. Is Mama planning something big to go down at this dinner? If so, can they stop her before her plot goes into action? What is Raven’s part in all this?
Mike Nappa kept me on the edge of my seat once again as Trudi, Samuel and Raven raced against time to stop Nevermore from happening. I couldn’t put it down, not until the wee hours of the morning, as I waited with baited breath to find out the ending, which didn't disappoint!
Once again, I thought that Trudi and Sam made a kickin' team, and I'll be happy to see them again for the third installment of their series. Raven was pretty much a pain in the butt, very immature. The way he fawned over Trudi, I was like "puleeze, she is so never going to fall for you!" In the end, I think she saw him more like a kid brother though, which was nice. Mama Bliss, I wish could be in the next novel, because that lady is totally awesome. I guess I always like the sassy old lady characters (like Cousin Violet in Downton Abbey, or Connie Tucker in Young Sheldon, for example). Maybe Mike will decide to put her in a prequel someday, who knows!
If you like suspense novels, be sure to check out The Raven, and the other books in the Coffey and Hill series by Mike Nappa.
Reviewed by Amanda Kai
April 1, 2020
The Raven is the second book in Mike Nappa’s “Coffey and Hill” suspense series. This story picks up about a year and a half after the “Annabel Lee” case ends. Trudi Coffey is still running her private investigations firm at a shopping center in Atlanta, and Samuel Hill now works for the Atlanta PD. It appears she’s turned down his suggestion that he return to being her partner full-time, but they do work together on cases that come up from time to time.
Like this one that’s been bugging Samuel. Rumors are floating around town about a plot with the code name “Nevermore”. No one seems to know exactly who is behind it, or what kind of terrorist attack may be planned for the city, but Samuel knows that the word “Nevermore” comes from Edgar Allan Poe’s poem, “The Raven”. Given that his ex-wife is something of an expert, he goes to her to see if she might be able to pinpoint a clue in the prose. But Trudi’s lead comes not from her vast collection of Poe’s works lining the shelves of her office, but from a young street magician she’s met recently, who goes by the name of “Raven.”
Raven narrates a third of the story from his perspective. At just 22 years old, he’s already got a messy history of underage drinking, and a tragic drunk driving accident that led him to run away from home. After that, he bounced from city to city, making a living as a thief and a “deception specialist”- his fancy word for a magician. When Trudi breaks into his apartment and rescues him from being beat up by the Ukrainian mafia, he immediately develops a huge crush on her. Despite the fact that she is ten years his senior and totally out of his league, he is determined to win her over. But first, he’s got to settle his debts with the mafia bosses.
To do that, he has to break into Mama Bliss’ Secret Stash and steal her ledger book. Mama Bliss is a 71-year old lady with a lot more secrets than the memorabilia she sells in her kitchy shop. For starters, she runs an underground gun laundering operation that helps organizations like the CIA and other government alphabet groups. But she also has ties to the same Ukranian mafia group that Raven has ticked off, and a beef with their leader-- businessman and politician Max Roman. She catches Raven breaking into her shop red-handed and offers him a job to come work for her instead.
Trudi and Samuel find out that Mama Bliss has donated an original copy of the magazine that Poe’s poem “The Raven” was first published in for an art auction and benefit dinner at which Max Roman will be speaking. Is Mama planning something big to go down at this dinner? If so, can they stop her before her plot goes into action? What is Raven’s part in all this?
Mike Nappa kept me on the edge of my seat once again as Trudi, Samuel and Raven raced against time to stop Nevermore from happening. I couldn’t put it down, not until the wee hours of the morning, as I waited with baited breath to find out the ending, which didn't disappoint!
Once again, I thought that Trudi and Sam made a kickin' team, and I'll be happy to see them again for the third installment of their series. Raven was pretty much a pain in the butt, very immature. The way he fawned over Trudi, I was like "puleeze, she is so never going to fall for you!" In the end, I think she saw him more like a kid brother though, which was nice. Mama Bliss, I wish could be in the next novel, because that lady is totally awesome. I guess I always like the sassy old lady characters (like Cousin Violet in Downton Abbey, or Connie Tucker in Young Sheldon, for example). Maybe Mike will decide to put her in a prequel someday, who knows!
If you like suspense novels, be sure to check out The Raven, and the other books in the Coffey and Hill series by Mike Nappa.
August 30, 2017
Mike Nappa discovered through Instagram that I was reading his first thriller for a Dutch book club and that I was totally enthusiastic about ‘Annabel Lee, Coffey & Hill 1’. So he offered me his new book ‘The Raven’ (also a Coffey & Hill book) to read and review. Which I absolutely said yes to and started reading it right away.
In this second book in the series the detective duo Trudi Coffey and Samuel Hill gets to deal with a bit of an odd street artist named The Raven. This boy is quite good at pick pocketing during his performances. He puts himself into a lot of trouble by stealing the wallet of the wrong person. How does it happen that by black mailing the, who he thinks is a, simple but rich businessman he ends up neck deep in the Ukrainian Mafia? And how does he get out of this hell hole? Can Coffey & Hill help him and what the heck means ‘Nevermore’?
The characters in this story are just like in the first book explicit types. The Raven, mama Bliss, Trudi, Samuel, all of them aren’t stereotypes. They are so described that I saw them literally before my eyes while reading, I sympathized and felt compassionated with them all. Also the whole surroundings experience of walking around in the American Atlanta state, with the different neighborhoods and within the different cultures, by reading is amazing. If you ask me a very marvelous piece of writing style.
I have to admit though that I personally think that ‘Annabel Lee’ had a more powerful start, with more speed in it through the whole story. ‘The Raven’ took a bit longer to get hold on me. But despite that I still think it is an amazing new story in the series and I enjoyed it very much. I’m looking forward to the third book in the Coffey & Hill book series.
I give this book 4,5 stars.
Excitement: 7,5
Plot: 7,5
Reading fun: 10
Writing style: 10
Originality: 8
Psychology: 8
Nederlandse recensie;
Mike Nappa ontdekte via Instagram dat ik zijn eerste thriller aan het lezen was voor een Nederlandse leesclub en helemaal dolenthousiast was over ‘Annabel Lee, Coffey & Hill 1’. Hierdoor bood hij mij zijn nieuwe thriller ‘The Raven’ (tevens het tweede deel in de Coffey & Hill series) aan om te lezen en te recenseren. Waarop ik uiteraard ja zei en gelijk begon met lezen.
In dit tweede deel krijgt het detective duo Trudi Coffey en Samuel Hill te maken met een nogal aparte straatartiest genaamd The Raven. Deze jongen is nogal goed in zakkenrollen tijdens zijn optredens en brengt zich dusdanig in de problemen door precies van de verkeerde te jatten. Hoe komt hij terecht via het chanteren van, wie hij denkt, een simpele maar rijke zakenman tot diep aan zijn nek in de Oekraïense maffia? En hoe komt hij hier in hemelsnaam uit? Kunnen Coffey & Hill hem helpen en wat betekend ‘Nevermore’?
De karakters in dit verhaal zijn net als in het eerste deel uitgesproken types. The Raven, mama Bliss, Trudi, Samuel, allemaal niet stereotypes. Zij worden zo beschreven dat ik ze letterlijk voor mij zag tijdens het lezen, met hen mee leefde en mee kon voelen. Ook het hele omgevingsgevoel van rondlopen in het Amerikaanse Atlanta, in de verschillende buurten met daarin hun verschillende culturen, spat van het papier. Zonder dat het in langdradige gedetailleerde bewoording beschreven is. Oftewel een knap staaltje schrijfwerk als je het mij vraagt.
Wel moet ik toegeven dat ik ‘Annabel Lee’ iets vlotter op gang vond komen en het bij ‘The Raven’ wat langer duurder voordat het boek mij volledig in zijn greep had. Toch vind ik het weer een geweldig boek waar ik echt van genoten heb. Ik kijk uit naar het vervolg, het derde deel in de Coffey & Hill series.
Ik geef dit boek 4,5 sterren.
Spanning: 7,5
Plot: 7,5
Leesplezier: 10
Schrijfstijl: 10
Originaliteit: 8
Psychologie: 8
In this second book in the series the detective duo Trudi Coffey and Samuel Hill gets to deal with a bit of an odd street artist named The Raven. This boy is quite good at pick pocketing during his performances. He puts himself into a lot of trouble by stealing the wallet of the wrong person. How does it happen that by black mailing the, who he thinks is a, simple but rich businessman he ends up neck deep in the Ukrainian Mafia? And how does he get out of this hell hole? Can Coffey & Hill help him and what the heck means ‘Nevermore’?
The characters in this story are just like in the first book explicit types. The Raven, mama Bliss, Trudi, Samuel, all of them aren’t stereotypes. They are so described that I saw them literally before my eyes while reading, I sympathized and felt compassionated with them all. Also the whole surroundings experience of walking around in the American Atlanta state, with the different neighborhoods and within the different cultures, by reading is amazing. If you ask me a very marvelous piece of writing style.
I have to admit though that I personally think that ‘Annabel Lee’ had a more powerful start, with more speed in it through the whole story. ‘The Raven’ took a bit longer to get hold on me. But despite that I still think it is an amazing new story in the series and I enjoyed it very much. I’m looking forward to the third book in the Coffey & Hill book series.
I give this book 4,5 stars.
Excitement: 7,5
Plot: 7,5
Reading fun: 10
Writing style: 10
Originality: 8
Psychology: 8
Nederlandse recensie;
Mike Nappa ontdekte via Instagram dat ik zijn eerste thriller aan het lezen was voor een Nederlandse leesclub en helemaal dolenthousiast was over ‘Annabel Lee, Coffey & Hill 1’. Hierdoor bood hij mij zijn nieuwe thriller ‘The Raven’ (tevens het tweede deel in de Coffey & Hill series) aan om te lezen en te recenseren. Waarop ik uiteraard ja zei en gelijk begon met lezen.
In dit tweede deel krijgt het detective duo Trudi Coffey en Samuel Hill te maken met een nogal aparte straatartiest genaamd The Raven. Deze jongen is nogal goed in zakkenrollen tijdens zijn optredens en brengt zich dusdanig in de problemen door precies van de verkeerde te jatten. Hoe komt hij terecht via het chanteren van, wie hij denkt, een simpele maar rijke zakenman tot diep aan zijn nek in de Oekraïense maffia? En hoe komt hij hier in hemelsnaam uit? Kunnen Coffey & Hill hem helpen en wat betekend ‘Nevermore’?
De karakters in dit verhaal zijn net als in het eerste deel uitgesproken types. The Raven, mama Bliss, Trudi, Samuel, allemaal niet stereotypes. Zij worden zo beschreven dat ik ze letterlijk voor mij zag tijdens het lezen, met hen mee leefde en mee kon voelen. Ook het hele omgevingsgevoel van rondlopen in het Amerikaanse Atlanta, in de verschillende buurten met daarin hun verschillende culturen, spat van het papier. Zonder dat het in langdradige gedetailleerde bewoording beschreven is. Oftewel een knap staaltje schrijfwerk als je het mij vraagt.
Wel moet ik toegeven dat ik ‘Annabel Lee’ iets vlotter op gang vond komen en het bij ‘The Raven’ wat langer duurder voordat het boek mij volledig in zijn greep had. Toch vind ik het weer een geweldig boek waar ik echt van genoten heb. Ik kijk uit naar het vervolg, het derde deel in de Coffey & Hill series.
Ik geef dit boek 4,5 sterren.
Spanning: 7,5
Plot: 7,5
Leesplezier: 10
Schrijfstijl: 10
Originaliteit: 8
Psychologie: 8
February 17, 2024
When a street magician (deception specialist), who calls himself The Raven and tends to pay his rent with what he can steal out of the pockets in his audience, gets in over his head with a local politician and his enforcers, he finds himself in the middle of a mysterious plot code-named “Nevermore.” Private investigator Trudi Coffey and her ex-husband, ex-CIA agent, ex-private investigator, now Atlanta cop, Samuel Hill race to uncover the details of the plot and stop it before it, whatever it even is, can happen.
For as much as I liked the previous book in this series, I liked this one even more. It kept me in suspense all throughout, with high stakes, real danger, and well-developed characters. Nappa made me care about people on both sides—good guys and bad guys alike. Though Coffey and Hill are the overall focus of the series, The Raven was really the protagonist in this story, with his attempts to turn his life around and some backstory that culminated in a couple of very emotional moments. I didn’t care for Raven’s insta-crush on Trudi, but overall, it was downplayed enough to not be a problem.
Like the previous book, this one also has three perspectives: Trudi Coffey, a woman named Bliss that is connected to Nevermore in some way, and The Raven (whose POV is in 1st-person, present tense, while the other two are 3rd-person, past tense). There is also a lot of jumping around in time, which seems to be one of the biggest issues for other people. Even when a chapter starts in “present time,” it will sometimes jump back and tell something that happened minutes, hours, or days earlier, before getting back to “now.” I didn’t have a problem with that flow; in fact, I think it really added to the suspense.
This book had a little more Christian content in it than the previous, which only took the form of Trudi recently becoming a Christian and trying to filter her life through that newish lens. The Raven brings more of that into the story, struggling with an upbringing as a pastor’s son and his guilt over some particularly bad things he’s done in his life. That and the lessened violence and gore (compared to the previous) are probably the biggest contributors to my higher rating of this book. Needless to say, I loved this book and recommend it to fans of suspense and thriller novels, especially with a Christian leaning.
For as much as I liked the previous book in this series, I liked this one even more. It kept me in suspense all throughout, with high stakes, real danger, and well-developed characters. Nappa made me care about people on both sides—good guys and bad guys alike. Though Coffey and Hill are the overall focus of the series, The Raven was really the protagonist in this story, with his attempts to turn his life around and some backstory that culminated in a couple of very emotional moments. I didn’t care for Raven’s insta-crush on Trudi, but overall, it was downplayed enough to not be a problem.
Like the previous book, this one also has three perspectives: Trudi Coffey, a woman named Bliss that is connected to Nevermore in some way, and The Raven (whose POV is in 1st-person, present tense, while the other two are 3rd-person, past tense). There is also a lot of jumping around in time, which seems to be one of the biggest issues for other people. Even when a chapter starts in “present time,” it will sometimes jump back and tell something that happened minutes, hours, or days earlier, before getting back to “now.” I didn’t have a problem with that flow; in fact, I think it really added to the suspense.
This book had a little more Christian content in it than the previous, which only took the form of Trudi recently becoming a Christian and trying to filter her life through that newish lens. The Raven brings more of that into the story, struggling with an upbringing as a pastor’s son and his guilt over some particularly bad things he’s done in his life. That and the lessened violence and gore (compared to the previous) are probably the biggest contributors to my higher rating of this book. Needless to say, I loved this book and recommend it to fans of suspense and thriller novels, especially with a Christian leaning.
February 4, 2018
A Mr&Mrs Smith of sorts. A guy who is both prodigal and prodigy. An old woman knowing more that she shows. Pain and (maybe) forgiveness.
The perfect ingredients for thrilling and smart ride.
This is a second book in the Coffey & Hill Series, but can be read as a standalone novel (but you dont wan't to miss the goodness the first novel Annabel Lee is!).
I love this series. It is smart and sleek and I would even call it "sexy" - but not in any lascivious/carnal way or anything physical even, it is just very attractive in its capabilities and wit! Take Trudi Coffey and Sam Hill. They have all the charm of any TV golden couple, can fight and kick as if they are paid for that (and they are :)) and their sparks would heat Antarctica. But there is more about any of them - and this is what is important. Under all the swift hits and witty remarks is a lot of pain - they once were a marital couple, until the betrayal. And they still love each other, but Trudi can not trust Sam anymore. And this personal pain and (I so much hope so) slow way to healing is what brings some nourishing food for thought on the table.
Or take The Raven. A smart, playful boy with painful past, changing his ways because of a good woman (cliché, I know - but also well-hidden dream if the hearts of most women). I have such a soft spot in my heart for him. He deserves all that and more.
And Mama Bliss, living with pain because of the death of her grandson? He story is probably the most painful of all of them, because of the lack of hope. And forgiveness.
I love how Mr Nappa gets women - which is not common trait among the male writers. But I felt recognized as a woman during my reading these novels.
And I need me some Vince Camuto boots!
My only complaint is that i would love to hear Sam Hill's voice. He needs to do that or he will stay just a nice sidekick to Trudi, whose voice is known, which would be a pity.
Recommended read.
The perfect ingredients for thrilling and smart ride.
This is a second book in the Coffey & Hill Series, but can be read as a standalone novel (but you dont wan't to miss the goodness the first novel Annabel Lee is!).
I love this series. It is smart and sleek and I would even call it "sexy" - but not in any lascivious/carnal way or anything physical even, it is just very attractive in its capabilities and wit! Take Trudi Coffey and Sam Hill. They have all the charm of any TV golden couple, can fight and kick as if they are paid for that (and they are :)) and their sparks would heat Antarctica. But there is more about any of them - and this is what is important. Under all the swift hits and witty remarks is a lot of pain - they once were a marital couple, until the betrayal. And they still love each other, but Trudi can not trust Sam anymore. And this personal pain and (I so much hope so) slow way to healing is what brings some nourishing food for thought on the table.
Or take The Raven. A smart, playful boy with painful past, changing his ways because of a good woman (cliché, I know - but also well-hidden dream if the hearts of most women). I have such a soft spot in my heart for him. He deserves all that and more.
And Mama Bliss, living with pain because of the death of her grandson? He story is probably the most painful of all of them, because of the lack of hope. And forgiveness.
I love how Mr Nappa gets women - which is not common trait among the male writers. But I felt recognized as a woman during my reading these novels.
And I need me some Vince Camuto boots!
My only complaint is that i would love to hear Sam Hill's voice. He needs to do that or he will stay just a nice sidekick to Trudi, whose voice is known, which would be a pity.
Recommended read.
October 11, 2022
I think this would be a fun book to listen to someone read. The quirky sense of humor thrown around by Coffey and Hill in moments of seriousness makes this a fun read. I read the first in this series a year ago and was worried that I would have forgotten too much to keep up with the relationships, but the author did a good job of bringing in the backstory without it being a complete repeat of events. Coffey & Hill used to be married, but his infidelities led to a divorce in their personal life, but they still work together professionally: Coffey as a PI and Hill as a detective with the Atlanta PD. This series of events starts with Coffey walking in on a street magician, The Raven, being beat to a pulp by some Ukrainian mobsters. He falls in love with her and they end up tangled up in a case to track down a home grown terrorist plot known as the “Nevermore”. Several locations were referenced that I was familiar with, making me more invested in the situation. I look forward to reading the next in the series.
December 14, 2016
This book starts out exciting and only gets more intense as the book moves along. This author writes some great characters that are fully capable of making the reader want to see them get what they deserve, for the good or the bad.
If you like the kind of novel that never takes a rest, this will be a perfect read for you. Even during the portions of this book where the characters are being thoughtful and trying to figure out their next move, there is always something happening. This novel is complex enough to keep even the busiest and most demanding reader satisfied.
This is a series that can make you forget your worries and focus on something else for a while, and isn't that a main reason why we read anyway? recommended.
This review is based on a complementary copy from the publisher, provided through Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
If you like the kind of novel that never takes a rest, this will be a perfect read for you. Even during the portions of this book where the characters are being thoughtful and trying to figure out their next move, there is always something happening. This novel is complex enough to keep even the busiest and most demanding reader satisfied.
This is a series that can make you forget your worries and focus on something else for a while, and isn't that a main reason why we read anyway? recommended.
This review is based on a complementary copy from the publisher, provided through Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
August 14, 2017
Wow.
The plotline of this book is tangled worse than a ball of string. I still haven't got it all figured out. Basically, what I can gather is,
It was a good book. I wouldn't let anyone under probably 16 or 17 read this series though.
The plotline of this book is tangled worse than a ball of string. I still haven't got it all figured out. Basically, what I can gather is,
It was a good book. I wouldn't let anyone under probably 16 or 17 read this series though.
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