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In Death #38
Sanctuarul
The incomparable J. D. Robb presents the latest moving and suspenseful novel in the #1 New York Times bestselling Eve Dallas series.
Leading the demolition of a long-empty New York building that once housed a makeshift shelter for troubled teenagers, Lieutenant Eve Dallas’s husband uncovers two skeletons wrapped in plastic. And by the time Eve’s done with the crime scene, there are twelve murders to be solved.
The victims are all young girls. A tattooed tough girl who dealt in illegal drugs. The runaway daughter of a pair of well-to-do doctors. They all had their stories. And they all lost their chance for a better life.
Then Eve discovers a connection between the victims and someone she knows. And she grows even more determined to reveal the secrets of the place that was called The Sanctuary—and the evil concealed in one human heart.
Leading the demolition of a long-empty New York building that once housed a makeshift shelter for troubled teenagers, Lieutenant Eve Dallas’s husband uncovers two skeletons wrapped in plastic. And by the time Eve’s done with the crime scene, there are twelve murders to be solved.
The victims are all young girls. A tattooed tough girl who dealt in illegal drugs. The runaway daughter of a pair of well-to-do doctors. They all had their stories. And they all lost their chance for a better life.
Then Eve discovers a connection between the victims and someone she knows. And she grows even more determined to reveal the secrets of the place that was called The Sanctuary—and the evil concealed in one human heart.
371 pages, Paperback
First published February 18, 2014
1658 people are currently reading
8255 people want to read
About the author
J.D. Robb
177 books35.2k followersJ.D. Robb is the author of the #1 New York Times bestselling In Death series and the pseudonym for #1 New York Times bestselling author Nora Roberts. The futuristic suspense series stars Eve Dallas, a New York City police lieutenant with a dark past. Initially conceived as a trilogy, readers clamored for more of Eve and the mysterious Roarke. Stolen in Death (St. Martin's Press, February 2026) will be the 62nd entry in the series.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,642 reviews
December 11, 2019
Loved it! This book was a lot more contemplative than the others to date, not so much happening, more thinking about the crime and tossing around ideas. I liked the change of pace although I will be just as happy to see Eve get back to fighting her way through the criminals in future stories. I really enjoyed the place she is at with Roarke and the way she is beginning to adjust to the fact that she has a right to be happy and to belong. The dialogue in this one, especially between Roarke and Eve was J.D.Robb at her sparkling best. And the very best bit of the book was right at the end where it says that Festive in Death will be released later in 2014. Hooray! May this series never end.
11/12/19 That was my review written when I read this book for the first time in 2014 and I still agree with every word of it! Especially the last sentence. Five years later we are looking forward to the fiftieth book in the series coming out next February.
11/12/19 That was my review written when I read this book for the first time in 2014 and I still agree with every word of it! Especially the last sentence. Five years later we are looking forward to the fiftieth book in the series coming out next February.
November 6, 2017
I think Mei said in her review that she didn't know who to pity more, the victim or the killers ... yes, felt a bit like that at the end of the book but I guess justice must be served and, at the end of the day, victims are victims.
Some of the scenes brought back memories for Eve, and not good ones. Did she really have any good memories before meeting Roarke?
At least you can afford a regular bottle of Champagne, Roarke!
This was quite fast paced. Eve and Peabody worked well together.
I love how Eve loves Dennis Mira. He is so sweet. He is like a father figure to her, I think. He wants to take care of her.
Sigh. Roarke. He is perfection ...
Cannot believe I am coming to an end with this series. Every book has been fabulous. Seriously, all four or five stars.
Some of the scenes brought back memories for Eve, and not good ones. Did she really have any good memories before meeting Roarke?
"How about we pop champagne?"
At least you can afford a regular bottle of Champagne, Roarke!
This was quite fast paced. Eve and Peabody worked well together.
"Blood ... Water."
I love how Eve loves Dennis Mira. He is so sweet. He is like a father figure to her, I think. He wants to take care of her.
As always when she saw the kind and dreamy eyes of Dennis Mira, her heart gave a little tug. Just something about him, she thought, with his cardigans and mussed hair, bemused smile.
"It was a house, one I enjoyed very much. But it wasn't a home.
Until you."
Sigh. Roarke. He is perfection ...
Cannot believe I am coming to an end with this series. Every book has been fabulous. Seriously, all four or five stars.
July 9, 2025
2.5 stars
In this 38th book in the 'Lt. Eve Dallas' series, numerous bodies are found in the walls of a building that's being renovated. The book can be read as a standalone.
*****
Lt. Eve Dallas is a capable New York detective married to Irish billionaire Roarke - a handsome devil with wild blue eyes (which are mentioned a few too many times in the book).
Roarke recently purchased a dilapidated old Manhattan building that he's renovating. When workers tear into an old wall they're shocked to find two dead bodies. Before long a total of 12 bodies are found behind false walls, all of them teenage girls.
Forensic examination and detective work reveal that the bodies were entombed about 15 years before, around the time the building was being used as a shelter for homeless/abused children.
Dr. Morris, the medical examiner, and Garnet DeWinter, a stylish forensic anthropologist, study the victims' bodies and reconstruct their faces. This reveals the girls' identities and cause of death.
Meanwhile Lt. Dallas and her partner (the always entertaining) Detective Delia Peabody interview Philadelphia and Nashville Jones, a brother and sister who ran the children's shelter, which was named "Sanctuary."
Turns out the Jones' abandoned the old building about 15 years ago, when a generous donor gave them a new facility.
The Jones' recognize photos of some of the dead girls and admit a few went 'missing' but - since homeless kids came and went all the time - they weren't especially worried at the time.
A lot of the book is taken up with Dallas and Peabody interviewing the parents/families/acquaintances of the newly identified missing girls. Some of the kids were rebellious runaways who'd argued with their parents and would have returned home. Other youngsters were escapees from horrible abusive families. The mistreated girls tended to become thieves and grifters, and one 12-year-old girl regularly traded blow jobs for beer and other perks.
The detectives also repeatedly interview the Jones', learning about their conservative religious upbringing, siblings (all of whom are named for cities), and desire to do good. Dallas and Peabody also investigate how the Jones' ran their shelters, and the regimen followed by the youngsters, who were NOT supposed to sneak out at night....but oh well.
Eventually a suspect emerges from the various interviews and clues, and Dallas pushes on to discover the truth.
The book has a LOT of philosophizing about brutish homes and troubled children, especially since both Dallas and Roarke had terrible childhoods. Though this is an important social issue there was too much of it and it slowed down the tale. There's also a lot of talk about Christmas and holiday parties and decorations. A great deal of this chit-chat seems like filler, meant to extend what's essentially a novella into a longer book. Moreover, there's a lot of romance between Dallas and Roarke...who seem to be the most 'in love' couple in the world. I didn't particularly enjoy these parts but I'm not a fan of romance novels.
All in all this was a mediocre mystery, enhanced by appearances from the usual array of the series' colorful (and oddly attired) characters. Fans of J.D. Robb's Eve Dallas series would probably enjoy this book but other readers maybe not so much.
You can follow my reviews at http://reviewsbybarbsaffer.blogspot.com/
February 11, 2019
I FLOVED it!!! 😭😭😭
From blurb... --> "In a decrepit, long-empty New York building, Lieutenant Eve Dallas’s husband begins the demolition process by swinging a sledgehammer into a wall. When the dust clears, there are two skeletons wrapped in plastic behind it. He summons his wife immediately—and by the time she’s done with the crime scene, there are twelve murders to be solved."
This is a worst nightmare for parents. To lose their child and much worst of not knowing where their bodies were... I have a son, he's 6 years old. So because of that this book made me very, very emotional. I didn't want to cry while I was listening the audiobook (because I mostly listening it when I'm at gym) but thanks to amazing Susan Ericksen (Narrator), she made me cry a couple of times. :'( But still I'm not ashamed that I cried at gym because I'll never be sorry for reading & listening this series. ❤
From blurb... --> "In a decrepit, long-empty New York building, Lieutenant Eve Dallas’s husband begins the demolition process by swinging a sledgehammer into a wall. When the dust clears, there are two skeletons wrapped in plastic behind it. He summons his wife immediately—and by the time she’s done with the crime scene, there are twelve murders to be solved."
This is a worst nightmare for parents. To lose their child and much worst of not knowing where their bodies were... I have a son, he's 6 years old. So because of that this book made me very, very emotional. I didn't want to cry while I was listening the audiobook (because I mostly listening it when I'm at gym) but thanks to amazing Susan Ericksen (Narrator), she made me cry a couple of times. :'( But still I'm not ashamed that I cried at gym because I'll never be sorry for reading & listening this series. ❤
September 14, 2016
Meh.... It's hard to get too excited about a cold-case, especially when there are no murders on-going throughout the book. The feeling of urgency isn't there. I was never worried. And, Eve wasn't even in danger or used as bait. That had to chap her a bit. It just felt bland.
Well, that's a little harsh. But, cats are jerks so I'm not surprised at his opinion.
What I wish for: a story that is really Peabody and McNab focused. They bring a lot of spice and life to this world.
Here is Peabody's wish on how she dies:
"kicking it at 220, minutes after being sexually satisfied by my 35-yr old Spanish lover, and his twin brother."
See? Not bland. Peabody is completely worthy of my girl-crush on her.
Well, that's a little harsh. But, cats are jerks so I'm not surprised at his opinion.
What I wish for: a story that is really Peabody and McNab focused. They bring a lot of spice and life to this world.
Here is Peabody's wish on how she dies:
"kicking it at 220, minutes after being sexually satisfied by my 35-yr old Spanish lover, and his twin brother."
See? Not bland. Peabody is completely worthy of my girl-crush on her.
own-unread
January 26, 2016In a decrepit, long-empty New York building, Lieutenant Eve Dallas’s husband begins the demolition process by swinging a sledgehammer into a wall. When the dust clears, there are two skeletons wrapped in plastic behind it. He summons his wife immediately—and by the time she’s done with the crime scene, there are twelve murders to be solved.
Roarke swinging a sledgehammer? Yum!
If he do it without shirt? Even yummier! :))
And this series keep better and better and better.
Roarke swinging a sledgehammer? Yum!
If he do it without shirt? Even yummier! :))
And this series keep better and better and better.
February 21, 2014
The story starts off with a bang when Roarke swings the hammer at the wall of a building at the onset of a major rehab. When the dust clears, the remains of two bodies lay before them. By the time it's all settled, 12 bodies are unearthed.
This story started off interesting and I nestled in for what I thought would be an intriguing case. It didn't take long for me to deduce the circumstances and who was probably behind the murders and why. Unfortunately, the procedurals from that point forward weren't that interesting or compelling. I struggled to get through to the end of the case.
The highlights of the book, however, came from the personal aspects of the story. Mavis plays an extraordinary role, one that reveals more about her past and circumstances. After 47 books, this was pretty riveting. Eve also is continuing to experience the impact of having a family, what it means, looks and feels like. She's changing, evolving and we see some of that in how she relates to some of the people she has to interview in the case. It's appropriate and finely pitched...some may say her voice is different and I concur with that and say but of course! There was also a new character introduced, Garnet DeWinter, and I foresee some bumps in the road between her and Dallas. Bring it!
While this was just an average reading experience for me, it still was an interesting one for all the reasons highlighted. It was worth it just to revisit some of my favorite characters and getting more Mavis was an unexpected surprise. However, if you read these stories primarily for the mystery/suspense, you might find it underwhelming.
This story started off interesting and I nestled in for what I thought would be an intriguing case. It didn't take long for me to deduce the circumstances and who was probably behind the murders and why. Unfortunately, the procedurals from that point forward weren't that interesting or compelling. I struggled to get through to the end of the case.
The highlights of the book, however, came from the personal aspects of the story. Mavis plays an extraordinary role, one that reveals more about her past and circumstances. After 47 books, this was pretty riveting. Eve also is continuing to experience the impact of having a family, what it means, looks and feels like. She's changing, evolving and we see some of that in how she relates to some of the people she has to interview in the case. It's appropriate and finely pitched...some may say her voice is different and I concur with that and say but of course! There was also a new character introduced, Garnet DeWinter, and I foresee some bumps in the road between her and Dallas. Bring it!
While this was just an average reading experience for me, it still was an interesting one for all the reasons highlighted. It was worth it just to revisit some of my favorite characters and getting more Mavis was an unexpected surprise. However, if you read these stories primarily for the mystery/suspense, you might find it underwhelming.
October 5, 2017
And…….the LOVE continues.
❤’d Eve in this one. She is changing again. You see her settling in a bit more with her life with Roarke and all of her friends. I love her and Peabody together. Their banter is fantastic. And I adore the relationship she has with Dennis Mira. I envision him as a big teddy bear. You can tell that Eve loves the guy.
❤’d Roarke too. He continues to be the ultimate swoon worthy sexy as all hell guy. The things he says to Eve has me melting into a puddle. He could never do anything wrong in my eyes. ❤
❤’d Peabody because how can you not. She never fails to make me laugh. She makes a great “good” cop but she would love to be a “bad” cop every so often. Her love for McNabb continues and the good thing is Eve's eye doesn't twitch anymore when the topic comes up. :)
We only get a little bit of McNabb, Mira, Morris, Baxter and Summerset. But we do get more of Mavis. Her little Bellamina is growing fast. She is a sweetie.
There was no chase to stop a murderer in this one. The deaths have already taken place so in Concealed in Death it is all about tugging the strings to try and find out who and why. I did figure out the “who” but the why tripped me up a bit.
Another fantastic addition to my most favorite series of all time!!
Oh and we are coming upon another holiday season with Roarke and Eve. Eve gets flustered at the mere mention of holiday shopping but she does love her Christmas tree decorating tradition. ❤
❤’d Eve in this one. She is changing again. You see her settling in a bit more with her life with Roarke and all of her friends. I love her and Peabody together. Their banter is fantastic. And I adore the relationship she has with Dennis Mira. I envision him as a big teddy bear. You can tell that Eve loves the guy.
❤’d Roarke too. He continues to be the ultimate swoon worthy sexy as all hell guy. The things he says to Eve has me melting into a puddle. He could never do anything wrong in my eyes. ❤
❤’d Peabody because how can you not. She never fails to make me laugh. She makes a great “good” cop but she would love to be a “bad” cop every so often. Her love for McNabb continues and the good thing is Eve's eye doesn't twitch anymore when the topic comes up. :)
We only get a little bit of McNabb, Mira, Morris, Baxter and Summerset. But we do get more of Mavis. Her little Bellamina is growing fast. She is a sweetie.
There was no chase to stop a murderer in this one. The deaths have already taken place so in Concealed in Death it is all about tugging the strings to try and find out who and why. I did figure out the “who” but the why tripped me up a bit.
Another fantastic addition to my most favorite series of all time!!
Oh and we are coming upon another holiday season with Roarke and Eve. Eve gets flustered at the mere mention of holiday shopping but she does love her Christmas tree decorating tradition. ❤
February 7, 2015
Forty plus books into the series and JD/Nora succeeds once again with an excellent fresh and interesting story.
Naked In Death was published almost twenty years ago (1995). Over the decades we fans have watched her introduce characters so in depth that we think of them as family. Sure there is formula to this future world. We have come to expect a challenging murder scene with many possible suspects. We know Eve and her trusted side kick Peabody will do their best using all resources available to solve the crime du jour. We will be treated to love scenes and witty dialogue.
Both Mavis and McNabb will wear something outlandish. Mavis and Summerset will have a touching moment to allow us to see Summersets humanity. Bella (if involved) will enchant and annoy, usually in the same paragraph. Eve and Dennis and or Dr. Mira will learn or teach some life lesson that makes us all go ahhhh.
Twenty years into the series, JD Robb introduces a completely new and large personality, a forensic pathologist named Garnet deWinter. With her and a great reconstruction artist, Eve eventually solves the case. New conflicts and a new foil for Eve's caustic personality are born. We the readers get to sit back and enjoy the show.
The murder(s) and case resolution make this book a solid 4 star read. What elevates this InDeath edition to 5 stars for this reader is JD Robb's understanding of roles. Her forensic pathologist aids and assists the investigation. She does not fight the bad guys. She does not run off and try to interview potential witnesses. SHE STAYS IN HER LAB.
She lets Eve solve the crime because THAT IS HER JOB.
Now if only Kathy Reichs would understand this simple concept..... Good job, Nora. Great read.
Naked In Death was published almost twenty years ago (1995). Over the decades we fans have watched her introduce characters so in depth that we think of them as family. Sure there is formula to this future world. We have come to expect a challenging murder scene with many possible suspects. We know Eve and her trusted side kick Peabody will do their best using all resources available to solve the crime du jour. We will be treated to love scenes and witty dialogue.
Both Mavis and McNabb will wear something outlandish. Mavis and Summerset will have a touching moment to allow us to see Summersets humanity. Bella (if involved) will enchant and annoy, usually in the same paragraph. Eve and Dennis and or Dr. Mira will learn or teach some life lesson that makes us all go ahhhh.
Twenty years into the series, JD Robb introduces a completely new and large personality, a forensic pathologist named Garnet deWinter. With her and a great reconstruction artist, Eve eventually solves the case. New conflicts and a new foil for Eve's caustic personality are born. We the readers get to sit back and enjoy the show.
The murder(s) and case resolution make this book a solid 4 star read. What elevates this InDeath edition to 5 stars for this reader is JD Robb's understanding of roles. Her forensic pathologist aids and assists the investigation. She does not fight the bad guys. She does not run off and try to interview potential witnesses. SHE STAYS IN HER LAB.
She lets Eve solve the crime because THAT IS HER JOB.
Now if only Kathy Reichs would understand this simple concept..... Good job, Nora. Great read.
December 29, 2020
3.5 need-more-Roarke stars
After almost four months battling the slump I have over this series, I finished the 38th book, dammit.
Overall, the beginning was a solid start; however as the mystery deepened, I got more bored. This book could be shorter. The tone was stagnant in the middle of it, as we follow Eve going here and there to find out the identities of the victims.
Now, onto the next one!
After almost four months battling the slump I have over this series, I finished the 38th book, dammit.
Overall, the beginning was a solid start; however as the mystery deepened, I got more bored. This book could be shorter. The tone was stagnant in the middle of it, as we follow Eve going here and there to find out the identities of the victims.
Now, onto the next one!
April 13, 2019
I loved the start of this book, the middle, and the ending. I found myself drawn in and absorbed throughout.
When Roarke swings a hammer to demolish a wall in a newly purchased old building, he finds the unexpected - bodies, he is more than a little startled, calling Eve to investigate they find more than they would have wished to. Eve may not have been trying to stop an active killer in this, but I still found myself keenly reading. The book despite being framed around a cold case, was fast paced.
Some of the scenes brought back memories for Eve, and not good ones. One thing I think the author has done well through Eve, is highlight how abuse in any form can leave a lasting legacy, a shadow that often dims and vanishes, but can pop up at unexpected times – but it’s a shadow that doesn’t have to destroy.
I liked learning more about Mavis’s past and her remains a cute addition to any book.
Overall this was a delectably cosy read, one I know I will be re-reading.
When Roarke swings a hammer to demolish a wall in a newly purchased old building, he finds the unexpected - bodies, he is more than a little startled, calling Eve to investigate they find more than they would have wished to. Eve may not have been trying to stop an active killer in this, but I still found myself keenly reading. The book despite being framed around a cold case, was fast paced.
Some of the scenes brought back memories for Eve, and not good ones. One thing I think the author has done well through Eve, is highlight how abuse in any form can leave a lasting legacy, a shadow that often dims and vanishes, but can pop up at unexpected times – but it’s a shadow that doesn’t have to destroy.
I liked learning more about Mavis’s past and her remains a cute addition to any book.
Overall this was a delectably cosy read, one I know I will be re-reading.
May 4, 2024
I listened to the abridged audiobook this time but won’t be doing that again. I feel I may have lost something for sure and you care about the characters more in the full audiobook.
Still good though. Rourke buys yet another building and when the building was being demolished bodies were found hidden behind the walls. All you need to know!!
Still good though. Rourke buys yet another building and when the building was being demolished bodies were found hidden behind the walls. All you need to know!!
September 19, 2019
Another hit by J.D. Robb.
Really liked this book, different in that the book was mostly Eve solving the crime - yes Peabody helped, yes Roarke helped, yes Mira helped, and the regular cast of characters. But what was different is that Feeney was only mentioned that he was helping, and McNabb made a cameo appearance. Roarke played a minor roll - not fully submerged in the investigation like he usually is. Even Dennis Mira played a bigger role than the regular cast (loved that).
The story line was good and creepy :) But this was definitely Eve's investigation. Liked the introduction of a new character - someone just as prickly as Eve but with a bit more flash/class maybe. Loved getting the background story on Mavis - a full circle kind of thing
What jumped off the page at me was yet another major error - why doesn't J.D. Robb get new proofreaders (see hand waving in air "Pick Me"). There are enough fanatics out there that know her books inside and out. How could she make such a blatant error about the gray button? It's really unforgivable - are her editors/proofreaders too in awe of her to correct her? Just saying.
Anyways, enough of a rant - 2 thumbs up and 5 stars for this book and do I recommend this book - you bet ya!
From the blurb: In a decrepit and long-empty New York building, a man begins the demolition process by swinging a sledgehammer into a wall. When the dust clears, he finds two skeletons wrapped in plastic behind it. The man is Lieutenant Eve Dallas's billionaire husband, Roarke, and he summons her immediately. His latest real estate project is going to be on hold for a while, because by the time Eve and her crew are finished searching the premises, there are 12 murders to be solved.
After a little digging reveals that the place housed a makeshift shelter for troubled and homeless teenagers back in the mid-2040s, Eve tracks down the people who worked there. Between their recollections and the brilliant work of the force's new forensic anthropologist, Eve begins to put names and faces to the skeletal remains. They are all girls. A tattooed tough teenager who dealt in illegal drugs. The runaway daughter of a pair of well-to-do doctors. They all had their stories. And they all lost their chance for a better life.
Everyone has something to hide. And when Eve discovers a stunning connection between the victims and someone she knows, she is even more driven to reveal the secrets of the place that was called The Sanctuary - and to find the evil concealed in one human heart.
Really liked this book, different in that the book was mostly Eve solving the crime - yes Peabody helped, yes Roarke helped, yes Mira helped, and the regular cast of characters. But what was different is that Feeney was only mentioned that he was helping, and McNabb made a cameo appearance. Roarke played a minor roll - not fully submerged in the investigation like he usually is. Even Dennis Mira played a bigger role than the regular cast (loved that).
The story line was good and creepy :) But this was definitely Eve's investigation. Liked the introduction of a new character - someone just as prickly as Eve but with a bit more flash/class maybe. Loved getting the background story on Mavis - a full circle kind of thing
What jumped off the page at me was yet another major error - why doesn't J.D. Robb get new proofreaders (see hand waving in air "Pick Me"). There are enough fanatics out there that know her books inside and out. How could she make such a blatant error about the gray button? It's really unforgivable - are her editors/proofreaders too in awe of her to correct her? Just saying.
Anyways, enough of a rant - 2 thumbs up and 5 stars for this book and do I recommend this book - you bet ya!
From the blurb: In a decrepit and long-empty New York building, a man begins the demolition process by swinging a sledgehammer into a wall. When the dust clears, he finds two skeletons wrapped in plastic behind it. The man is Lieutenant Eve Dallas's billionaire husband, Roarke, and he summons her immediately. His latest real estate project is going to be on hold for a while, because by the time Eve and her crew are finished searching the premises, there are 12 murders to be solved.
After a little digging reveals that the place housed a makeshift shelter for troubled and homeless teenagers back in the mid-2040s, Eve tracks down the people who worked there. Between their recollections and the brilliant work of the force's new forensic anthropologist, Eve begins to put names and faces to the skeletal remains. They are all girls. A tattooed tough teenager who dealt in illegal drugs. The runaway daughter of a pair of well-to-do doctors. They all had their stories. And they all lost their chance for a better life.
Everyone has something to hide. And when Eve discovers a stunning connection between the victims and someone she knows, she is even more driven to reveal the secrets of the place that was called The Sanctuary - and to find the evil concealed in one human heart.
December 11, 2018
For two decades, I have loved this series to death – no pun intended – but I didn’t think I’d ever finish this book. I’d pick it up, read it for a couple chapters, put it down, then come back to it a few weeks later, and repeat. I was surprised that I wound up really enjoying it.
Before starting Concealed in Death, I feared that the series had plateaued for me. The dynamics between characters was stagnant, and some of the characters I adored had been largely absent for several books (Mavis, for one).
The first half seems slow. There are so many victims, and the process of identifying them all and then figuring out where they came from and how they are related to other characters bogs down the plot. Once the story focuses on just a few key players, though, I began to enjoy it more. I’m not accustomed to feeling compassion for villains. This was something I wrestled with and it made me more invested in the story. The last third of the book flies by with changing theories, some wonderful developments between existing characters, and twist upon twist. The ending is distinctly different from previous books.
Dr. Garnet DeWinter, a renowned and extremely stylish forensic anthropologist, is introduced. Things are frosty between her and Dallas as they are forced to work together, but they don’t have nearly enough interaction. There’s potential there, so I’m hoping Garnet appears in future books. Robb leaves behind some other nice breadcrumbs that may lead to interesting storylines in the future.
Before starting Concealed in Death, I feared that the series had plateaued for me. The dynamics between characters was stagnant, and some of the characters I adored had been largely absent for several books (Mavis, for one).
The first half seems slow. There are so many victims, and the process of identifying them all and then figuring out where they came from and how they are related to other characters bogs down the plot. Once the story focuses on just a few key players, though, I began to enjoy it more. I’m not accustomed to feeling compassion for villains. This was something I wrestled with and it made me more invested in the story. The last third of the book flies by with changing theories, some wonderful developments between existing characters, and twist upon twist. The ending is distinctly different from previous books.
Dr. Garnet DeWinter, a renowned and extremely stylish forensic anthropologist, is introduced. Things are frosty between her and Dallas as they are forced to work together, but they don’t have nearly enough interaction. There’s potential there, so I’m hoping Garnet appears in future books. Robb leaves behind some other nice breadcrumbs that may lead to interesting storylines in the future.
November 22, 2023
Concealed in Death by J.D.Robb is the 38th book in the In Death series. Roarke ceremoniously starts the demolition process for an old building he had recently purchased and uncovers a skeleton. He calls in his wife Lieutenant Eve Dallas and the remains of 12 young girls are soon uncovered. Another fabulous book this time investigating a cold case, with not as much action as usual. It is nearly Christmas and it was nice to see Eve and Roarke make their own traditions. We learn a bit more of Mavis' past , and catch up with everyone, which is the best part of the series. Another great read.
Reread Nov 2021
Reread Nov 2021
October 12, 2019
Mavis'in geçmişini neden hiç merak etmemişim anlayamıyorum, ama Eve ile yarışır tarzdaymış. Bu kitaptaki 12 kızın öylece yok olması ve çoğunu kimsenin aramaması çok üzücü. Katili görmek de sizi ayrı üzüyor gerçekten. Ve Dennis Mira... Eve ile ilişkisi gözlerimi yaşartıyor gerçekten. Eve'in onda hiçbir zaman sahip olamadığı baba figürünü görmesi de kesinlikle kalbinizi cız ettiriyor :(
“As always when she saw the kind and dreamy eyes of Dennis Mira, her heart gave a little tug. Just something about him, she thought, with his cardigans and mussed hair, bemused smile.”
“As always when she saw the kind and dreamy eyes of Dennis Mira, her heart gave a little tug. Just something about him, she thought, with his cardigans and mussed hair, bemused smile.”
March 13, 2015
Not one of my favorites - I hate to say it, but the lack of urgency (the girls have been dead for sixteen years) sort of lets the tension seep out of the story. Worse, Eve seems to be backpedaling to her older, more judgmental self here -
Sorry, Dallas - But You Know I'm Right....
getting all self-righteous about somebody who, whatever you may think of his methods, protected Mavis when she needed protecting the most(!), and getting her back up about a colleague who has a record for assaulting an animal abuser(!). I like Eve when she acknowledges there's a lot of grey in the Universe (I will NOT type "Shades of Grey" in any context here! Not! Not! NOT!), not when she being all Law&Order Absolutist (even as she knew she wasn't herself!). This kind of reads like an older book in the series (maybe somewhere between LOYALTY.... and BETRAYAL...), when Eve was still wrestling with the reality of having fallen in love with and married a man she should, according to her job as she saw it, be trying to put in jail.
A part of me is also wondering how much of this book isn't Nora Roberts indulging her BONES fanfic, just a bit - Dr. Garnet DeWinter, like television's Dr. Temperance Brennan, is too impossibly-well put together for someone who spend much of her time standing in muck or filthy surroundings.
"Forensic Anthropologist With Asperger's" - Yeah, Right!
All this carping makes this book sound awful - and it's not, actually. There's a lot to like here - we get a significant piece of Mavis's backstory (let's just say that, given the abuse Mavis suffered as a child, it's no wonder she and Eve are so close!), a lovely romantic scene of Eve and Roarke decorating the Christmas tree in their bedroom (the strongest sign of Eve Dallas's evolution in this book is how she doesn't fight doing something that intimate and holiday-like, but actually admits she's been looking forward to it!), and Eve finds a kid at a shelter/halfway house for abused/troubled teens that she bonds with - in a very Eve Dallas ass-kicker kind of way! It also turns out the building Roarke's just bought that he's having renovated is for another shelter, continuing his growing idealism the longer he and Eve are together.
A nice story, but it just felt a bit - inessential, is all. You wondered why Eve Dallas was involved at all, as this thing had "Cold Case" stamped all over it - why wasn't this Peabody's and McNab's breakout case, with Eve and Roarke as a background characters providing assistance when needed? (For obvious reasons, I want My Book-Sister Dee to get her own case! :D )
Sorry, Dallas - But You Know I'm Right....
getting all self-righteous about somebody who, whatever you may think of his methods, protected Mavis when she needed protecting the most(!), and getting her back up about a colleague who has a record for assaulting an animal abuser(!). I like Eve when she acknowledges there's a lot of grey in the Universe (I will NOT type "Shades of Grey" in any context here! Not! Not! NOT!), not when she being all Law&Order Absolutist (even as she knew she wasn't herself!). This kind of reads like an older book in the series (maybe somewhere between LOYALTY.... and BETRAYAL...), when Eve was still wrestling with the reality of having fallen in love with and married a man she should, according to her job as she saw it, be trying to put in jail.
A part of me is also wondering how much of this book isn't Nora Roberts indulging her BONES fanfic, just a bit - Dr. Garnet DeWinter, like television's Dr. Temperance Brennan, is too impossibly-well put together for someone who spend much of her time standing in muck or filthy surroundings.
"Forensic Anthropologist With Asperger's" - Yeah, Right!
All this carping makes this book sound awful - and it's not, actually. There's a lot to like here - we get a significant piece of Mavis's backstory (let's just say that, given the abuse Mavis suffered as a child, it's no wonder she and Eve are so close!), a lovely romantic scene of Eve and Roarke decorating the Christmas tree in their bedroom (the strongest sign of Eve Dallas's evolution in this book is how she doesn't fight doing something that intimate and holiday-like, but actually admits she's been looking forward to it!), and Eve finds a kid at a shelter/halfway house for abused/troubled teens that she bonds with - in a very Eve Dallas ass-kicker kind of way! It also turns out the building Roarke's just bought that he's having renovated is for another shelter, continuing his growing idealism the longer he and Eve are together.
A nice story, but it just felt a bit - inessential, is all. You wondered why Eve Dallas was involved at all, as this thing had "Cold Case" stamped all over it - why wasn't this Peabody's and McNab's breakout case, with Eve and Roarke as a background characters providing assistance when needed? (For obvious reasons, I want My Book-Sister Dee to get her own case! :D )
March 27, 2014
When Roarke walked the floors of the derelict old building which used to be called The Sanctuary, he didn’t see the ruin, the mess, the graffiti – instead he saw what it would be in the future. He had bided his time and finally this old wreck was his – now he was about to take the first swing of the sledgehammer at an inside wall – a ceremony befitting a new owner – which would start the new life of this old girl. But what he found behind what appeared to be a false wall was nothing like he expected – with the first body in view, he immediately placed a call to his wife, police lieutenant Eve Dallas.
With Dallas and her sidekick Peabody on scene, the old building became a crime scene – and when the day had finally come to a close there were more bodies than any of them wanted to see in one place. As the investigation began, the parallels to Eve’s past showed through – some of the young victims could have been her in another time, another place. But with the forensic team working on identifying those victims, the horrors of the past were set to collide with the innocence of the present day.
Eve could sense she was getting closer to the killer – but would she be successful? Her theories seemed sound, but she was frustrated by the turn of events. What would the final result be – could she close the case on a satisfactory note?
I loved this new instalment in the In Death series once again – I’m never disappointed! The dynamics were a little different this time, but didn’t change the brilliance of the story. I highly recommend this series to anyone who hasn’t read any of it – you are in for the ride of your life!
With Dallas and her sidekick Peabody on scene, the old building became a crime scene – and when the day had finally come to a close there were more bodies than any of them wanted to see in one place. As the investigation began, the parallels to Eve’s past showed through – some of the young victims could have been her in another time, another place. But with the forensic team working on identifying those victims, the horrors of the past were set to collide with the innocence of the present day.
Eve could sense she was getting closer to the killer – but would she be successful? Her theories seemed sound, but she was frustrated by the turn of events. What would the final result be – could she close the case on a satisfactory note?
I loved this new instalment in the In Death series once again – I’m never disappointed! The dynamics were a little different this time, but didn’t change the brilliance of the story. I highly recommend this series to anyone who hasn’t read any of it – you are in for the ride of your life!
October 13, 2015
That one was kinda weird, not the usual 'find the body, solve the crime' but still interesting and as always captivating with the humor in the most unexpected situations
September 29, 2019
I was a little iffy on this one as it was ramping up, but the character work with Mavis & Mira really won me over, on top of a quite solid cold case mystery
December 29, 2017
4 stars - Futuristic/Crime/Thriller/Romantic Suspense
November 20, 2022
3,5 / 5
February 24, 2014
This is #38 in the "In Death" series which features Detective Eve Dallas and her mega-billionaire husband Roarke. I personally consider them to be the juxtapose Nick and Nora Charles of the 21st century. J.D. Robb has added to her body count of books but this particular episode didn't quite hit the spot like the last edition. It rates only a "fair" which makes it worth the time and trouble to read, just not something that I would rush to get then finish. Two downers in this book is there are fewer interactions with the normal crew she works with and it lacked any real suspense as did some of the previous stories. On the plus side, we find out more back story on Mavis Freestone, Dallas' best friend, and we are introduced to some seedy characters who might very well show up in future book (if we are lucky...). I hope that J.D. Robb ( Nora Roberts) isn't running dry in the idea dept. for this group of characters. Even a middle aged rube like me can see all sorts o ways things could go for Dallas' intrepid crew and "extended family"... Whether J.D. decides to do more in the personal arena, we will just have to see... As for the rest, I hope she is able to do better next time.
August 14, 2016
Another great instalment in the In Death series. This one had Eve mainly involved in solving the murders of 12 young girls with a little help from Roarke and Peabody. Not much involvement with EDD this time around. A little different from the others in the series in that Eve has to accept that the case was solved and justice served but perhaps not in a way that she would like. Liked that she named the last girl and Bella's name for Somerset. Nice to get some more background on Mavis and see Eve recognize that she is entitled to be happy in her life and accept Roarke's home is now alsoher home. Love her references to the "marriage rules" and the introduction of a new forensic pathologist, Garnet De Winter, who is just as strong as Eve.
September 1, 2017
Here I didn't know who to pity more: the victims or the killer... O_O
June 24, 2022
4 1/2 stars
June 18, 2024
Awesome to be with these characters and I liked the last two chapters, but the overall story lacked the urgency I'm used to.
July 14, 2018
Another amazing Eve & Roarke book.
I want my own Roarke!!!!
I didn't love-love Nora's overuse of the word as. In a non-comparable situation.
Like: I couldn't pick up my son from school, as I was being a serial killer at the time.
I get it when one british character uses it, but it's ALL OVER THE PLACE.
And I hate it. It's one of my hard-limits when I read. I can only concentrate on finding the next AS - and there were a million in here.
BUT - other than the asses - the story was great. Moving. Adorable. Funny. Exciting.
Can't wait to read #39 one day soon!
I want my own Roarke!!!!
I didn't love-love Nora's overuse of the word as. In a non-comparable situation.
Like: I couldn't pick up my son from school, as I was being a serial killer at the time.
I get it when one british character uses it, but it's ALL OVER THE PLACE.
And I hate it. It's one of my hard-limits when I read. I can only concentrate on finding the next AS - and there were a million in here.
BUT - other than the asses - the story was great. Moving. Adorable. Funny. Exciting.
Can't wait to read #39 one day soon!
February 19, 2014
Completely loved it.Eve is in such a good place ,she seems happier ,her spirit is lighter and she seems to have have come into her own.She's just matured beautifully.I loved Eve before in the earlier books but now I see clearly her softness,depth,sensitivity under all the layers and walls she'd put up.She's still fundamentally the same because Eve will always be Eve tough and all but now I begin to see the woman under the tough exterior the woman I suppose Roarke always saw and I love her even more .She and Roarke still sizzle ,I love their dialogue and I think they've reached a place in their marriage where they are less tentative with each other,more comfortable and settled ,it's been happening over many books but that really came through in this installment and it was beautiful.
The mystery in the book is very different and quite engaging.It was interesting and gripping to watch Eve and her team put everything together to get answers.We also learn a lot more about someone particularly close to Eve.Some touching moments with Dennis Mira.Eve gets to work with two characters we haven't met before.The journey to find answers is fascinating and totally absorbing in this one.
Love the In Death books.Cant wait to see what JD Robb has in store for us going forward.
The mystery in the book is very different and quite engaging.It was interesting and gripping to watch Eve and her team put everything together to get answers.We also learn a lot more about someone particularly close to Eve.Some touching moments with Dennis Mira.Eve gets to work with two characters we haven't met before.The journey to find answers is fascinating and totally absorbing in this one.
Love the In Death books.Cant wait to see what JD Robb has in store for us going forward.
March 8, 2014
When you’ve read all 38 of the “In Death” novels, not to mention numerous novellas featuring the same characters, it’s tough to get through one that is “merely” ordinary. In “Concealed”, we get a story reminiscent of Kathy Reichs’ “Bones” tales – when Eve’s hubby Roarke buys a rundown building abandoned for some 15 years, during a ceremonial wall demolition, 12 skeletons of apparently young teenaged girls are found from long ago. That of course brings our leading lady NYPD Homicide Lieutenant Eve Dallas (and her helpers) onto the scene; and what follows is a fairly standard police procedural to discover both the identities of the corpses as well as whodunit.
This series is well written and unfailingly suspenseful, but this particular novel seemed a little routine compared to others. While we would never skip the latest JD Robb, it’s crazy to expect every book to electrify every reader. Thus our rating of three stars, perhaps a little stingy, is not meant to discourage, but rather just reflect that the customary entertainment expected was found.
This series is well written and unfailingly suspenseful, but this particular novel seemed a little routine compared to others. While we would never skip the latest JD Robb, it’s crazy to expect every book to electrify every reader. Thus our rating of three stars, perhaps a little stingy, is not meant to discourage, but rather just reflect that the customary entertainment expected was found.
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