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Under the Pines
Told through the eyes of eight-year-old Josie Banks whose recently inherited psychic gifts meld science with the paranormal, Under the Pines is a fast-paced and surprising story of abduction, mistrust, and murder. Author Jennifer Bisbing intertwines her own 1970's childhood memories of life with a renowned forensic scientist into an authentic whodunit. Drawing on her father’s career — which included forensic consulting on high-profile cases like the O.J. Simpson trial and JonBenét Ramsey murder, as well as the hit CBS show CSI — Bisbing reveals how one girl, powerful beyond measure, can derail conventional crime scene investigation.
234 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 1, 2016
About the author
Jennifer Bisbing
4 books45 followersIn my debut novel, Under the Pines, interwoven within the fictitious plot, I reveal childhood memories of a life lived with a renowned forensic scientist. My father, Richard Bisbing, is internationally regarded as an expert in the forensic identification and comparison of hairs, fibers, and soil. He has testified in 21 states and been a pundit regarding the O.J. Simpson, JonBenét Ramsey, Chandra Levy, and Kobe Bryant cases; the 911 attacks; and the 1982 Tylenol poisonings; as well as consulted on CBS’s show CSI.
I take you back in time to a Michigan with landlines, pet rocks, rust colored carpets, and before the advent of DNA testing. My love of the written word drew me to a career in freelance writing, book editing, and web content management. I also dabble in photography — taking after my grandfather, who loved documenting America on Kodachrome. When I’m not behind a viewfinder or working with words, I’m hiking in the woods.
I take you back in time to a Michigan with landlines, pet rocks, rust colored carpets, and before the advent of DNA testing. My love of the written word drew me to a career in freelance writing, book editing, and web content management. I also dabble in photography — taking after my grandfather, who loved documenting America on Kodachrome. When I’m not behind a viewfinder or working with words, I’m hiking in the woods.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
June 6, 2016
Anything can happen when a eight-year old dreams the identities of murderers.
Josephine, "Josie”, is a young girl eight years of age who has inherited the gift of prophetic dreams from her dead grandmother. Josie's father, Herman, is a forensic scientist who works in a crime laboratory for the Michigan State police. His job involves examination of trace evidence gathered from murder scenes. He is in denial of the gift of prophetic dreams shared by his mother and his daughter Josie.
When Josie begins to have accurate dreams about crime scenes upon which Herman is working; dreams that include visual descriptions of the murderer, Herman is torn between using her gift to help advance his career and protecting her by trying to separate her as far as possible from his work. The result is a conflict where Herman chooses to adopt extreme measures in order to protect Josie.
Under the Pines is an entertaining story narrated largely from Josie's perspective. It reflects the confusion of both Josie and each of her parents as each of them struggle to come to grips with Josie's gift and their fears concerning her safety. The result is conflict between them and the desire to take drastic measures to restore their lives to their original condition. All the while, Josie's grandmother visits her through dreams encouraging her to accept the dreams for what they are and trust them.
This story is a story that will appeal to anyone who loves murder mysteries, stories concerning prophetic dreams and visions, police procedure and criminalistics, or just those who love adventure. It is well-written and well edited, and is a great read.
Josephine, "Josie”, is a young girl eight years of age who has inherited the gift of prophetic dreams from her dead grandmother. Josie's father, Herman, is a forensic scientist who works in a crime laboratory for the Michigan State police. His job involves examination of trace evidence gathered from murder scenes. He is in denial of the gift of prophetic dreams shared by his mother and his daughter Josie.
When Josie begins to have accurate dreams about crime scenes upon which Herman is working; dreams that include visual descriptions of the murderer, Herman is torn between using her gift to help advance his career and protecting her by trying to separate her as far as possible from his work. The result is a conflict where Herman chooses to adopt extreme measures in order to protect Josie.
Under the Pines is an entertaining story narrated largely from Josie's perspective. It reflects the confusion of both Josie and each of her parents as each of them struggle to come to grips with Josie's gift and their fears concerning her safety. The result is conflict between them and the desire to take drastic measures to restore their lives to their original condition. All the while, Josie's grandmother visits her through dreams encouraging her to accept the dreams for what they are and trust them.
This story is a story that will appeal to anyone who loves murder mysteries, stories concerning prophetic dreams and visions, police procedure and criminalistics, or just those who love adventure. It is well-written and well edited, and is a great read.
August 15, 2016
Could not finish this book.
I made it through 41% before finally giving up. The premise for the story was good. The writing as if 9 year old Josie was trying to keep a thought diary. Did not flow. Portrays a spoiled child in a dysfunctional family. This could have been good. Cannot recommend as written.
I made it through 41% before finally giving up. The premise for the story was good. The writing as if 9 year old Josie was trying to keep a thought diary. Did not flow. Portrays a spoiled child in a dysfunctional family. This could have been good. Cannot recommend as written.
August 13, 2016
Interesting story
The storyline held my interest. But the book
Was written on a middle school
Grade level. It was choppy. Not fluid writing. I knew who the culprit was pretty early into the book
The storyline held my interest. But the book
Was written on a middle school
Grade level. It was choppy. Not fluid writing. I knew who the culprit was pretty early into the book
June 20, 2019
I got as far as 57% into this but just had to call time on it in the end.....the story idea itself is a highly appealing one for me but the execution......sigh......I kept hoping it would improve and was willing it to do so but sadly it didn't. It seems as though it's written for the Young Adult market to me. It started off with tremendous promise and some very witty remarks as well and I was really enjoying young Josie and her gift. My favourite character was Martha-I thought she was lovely. I liked Josie but her speech for me was all wrong for a supposed 8 year-old. Way too advanced and forward, which made it too unbelievable. The killings were coming thick 'n' fast and it was getting confusing as to which ones she'd dreamt of and who the police personnel were in each case as well, as she introduced a different bunch in each incident.
There were many passages that really needed to have a comma added to read properly, too, since by the end of many sentences you're left gasping for breath !! This was an odd mistake-".....you have to go to the hospital and a see doctor" and this sentence too reads as pretty appalling English, "This was how also Herman accounted for why he had bought his new insulated rubber boots just days ago," then we had "Josie had a stained her pants."
I was irritated to see her write parent's when she HAD been getting it right as parents', then flare and not flair (Which is a word American writers never seem to get right), screamed not scream and in route not en route.
We're to believe that something happens with Josie and her aunt's reaction was "She is always up to something. She never follows directions"....as if she'd say this and I finally gave up when Herman (who was a berk) said to Martha, "I think they don't like how smart I am." For real ??? I'd beg to differ, Herman !! It was more horrid English and quite juvenile speech.
It was such a pity as I was really enjoying the first few chapters and was even hoping there might be a prequel telling us more of Josie's grandmother's life. She really needs to sort herself out a proper proofreader or editor. Let's face it, she did the hard part in imagining the story in the first place.
There were many passages that really needed to have a comma added to read properly, too, since by the end of many sentences you're left gasping for breath !! This was an odd mistake-".....you have to go to the hospital and a see doctor" and this sentence too reads as pretty appalling English, "This was how also Herman accounted for why he had bought his new insulated rubber boots just days ago," then we had "Josie had a stained her pants."
I was irritated to see her write parent's when she HAD been getting it right as parents', then flare and not flair (Which is a word American writers never seem to get right), screamed not scream and in route not en route.
We're to believe that something happens with Josie and her aunt's reaction was "She is always up to something. She never follows directions"....as if she'd say this and I finally gave up when Herman (who was a berk) said to Martha, "I think they don't like how smart I am." For real ??? I'd beg to differ, Herman !! It was more horrid English and quite juvenile speech.
It was such a pity as I was really enjoying the first few chapters and was even hoping there might be a prequel telling us more of Josie's grandmother's life. She really needs to sort herself out a proper proofreader or editor. Let's face it, she did the hard part in imagining the story in the first place.
May 18, 2016
Josie is a character that really sticks with you. She is young, curious, bright...and wound up in a crime saga that takes its toll on her and her entire family. This book is dark at times, yes, but its youthful narrative adds a glimmer of hope and a refreshing balance. The crime components are well researched and thought out, the writing and plot lines carry the reader with entrancing momentum, and the surreal elements (including Josie's "gift") add something special. All the while, we grow more and more invested in Josie and the cast of characters surrounding her. Josie has so much more life left in her, as a character and as a person - I can't wait to see a sequel!
August 31, 2016
3.5 Stars. An interesting, intelligent lead. Josie, the protagonist, is an unusual character with her psychic ability and crayon drawings of crime scenes. I kept hoping that the book would shoot forward in time 20 years so that I could read about her exploits as an adult. The story moves along at a cracking pace, and there is no time to get bored. It got a tiny bit confusing towards the end and at times felt a little rushed, although that may have been the author's way of building suspense. Anyhoo! Good, well thought out characters that make us care about them. Nicely done.
December 16, 2016
Good idea poorly executed
The premise of the story was intriguing, which was the reason I read it in the first place. Unfortunately, the author seemed in too big a hurry to hit the high points rather than fully develop the story line. Consequently, it read like someone outlining the plot of a movie rather than a rich, full story. This book would have benefited greatly from a good editor.
The premise of the story was intriguing, which was the reason I read it in the first place. Unfortunately, the author seemed in too big a hurry to hit the high points rather than fully develop the story line. Consequently, it read like someone outlining the plot of a movie rather than a rich, full story. This book would have benefited greatly from a good editor.
June 5, 2016
Under the Pines was a fantastic debut novel full of suspense and psychology. Bisbing did an excellent job of keeping the scientific aspects interesting and intriguing while writing in a descriptive and thoughtful manner. I love mystery novels and psychological thrillers and this was the best of both worlds. I would highly recommend to others. I am hoping there is a sequel.
August 16, 2016
Murder with psychic abilities of the young girl to solve the crimes.
Our young girl has inherited her psychic powers from her paternal grandmother and has insight into murder cases her father (a forensic scientist) is involved in. The girls father grew up with this kind of notoriety and does not want it for his family.
Our young girl has inherited her psychic powers from her paternal grandmother and has insight into murder cases her father (a forensic scientist) is involved in. The girls father grew up with this kind of notoriety and does not want it for his family.
May 24, 2016
Chilling details, wonderfully developed, complex characters. This book takes you on a wild ride through the world of forensic science, a hopeful child's dark psychic dreams, and many twists and turns. I loved that it's not your typical crime book. The characters are way beyond that.
September 19, 2016
Unusual story line
Pretty good story, but the writer needs to improve the flo of the writing. The story takes a strange turn that you never see coming, however then the whole book abruptly ends.
Pretty good story, but the writer needs to improve the flo of the writing. The story takes a strange turn that you never see coming, however then the whole book abruptly ends.
September 4, 2016
Good read
Little slow at first but picks up quickly. Engages your curiosity. Little girl is intriguing with her gift and ability to draw her dreams. Interesting twist at the end.
Little slow at first but picks up quickly. Engages your curiosity. Little girl is intriguing with her gift and ability to draw her dreams. Interesting twist at the end.
November 30, 2016
Lots of turns.
Page turner. Didn't get much done after I read the first page.
A new concept, new type of story. Haven't read anything like it before.
Page turner. Didn't get much done after I read the first page.
A new concept, new type of story. Haven't read anything like it before.
December 3, 2016
Good read.
A good read that keeps you turning page's right to the end and what a surprise ending it was. You must read Under the pines......
A good read that keeps you turning page's right to the end and what a surprise ending it was. You must read Under the pines......
May 25, 2017
Great plot and story
This story draws you in from the beginning ...strong characters and great flow . Highly recommend you read this book!
This story draws you in from the beginning ...strong characters and great flow . Highly recommend you read this book!
January 26, 2021
I loved the pace, characters and suspense. Did not see the ending coming.
September 7, 2025
oh where to start?
The idea is a good one .. not unique but a good one non the less. however, the execution is something else. It is written from an 8 year olds point of view with her writing ability too. it reads primary school level. some point and then they.... and then.... then suddenly. argh! The ending was equally drivel as it ended at the wrong point. There aren't chapters as such... just lines or sub headings. It kinda jumps too.... she must go to school but then doesn't go for weeks. contradictory.
no don't bother sorry.
The idea is a good one .. not unique but a good one non the less. however, the execution is something else. It is written from an 8 year olds point of view with her writing ability too. it reads primary school level. some point and then they.... and then.... then suddenly. argh! The ending was equally drivel as it ended at the wrong point. There aren't chapters as such... just lines or sub headings. It kinda jumps too.... she must go to school but then doesn't go for weeks. contradictory.
no don't bother sorry.
February 20, 2018
Terrific first novel by the author! Very interesting twist having a mystery be from the view of a child. Especially a child of a forensic scientist. As I am very intrigued by Forensics it was a fun read. She built up the characters very well and the twists worked well. The only thing I wish would be different is how quickly the ending was wrapped up. I would have like more story on that. Don't want to be a spoiler on this so not expanding on the end.
January 21, 2018
Young Josie reveals the story in which her father in forensics and her mother in nursing deal with her special gift. She dreams details of murder crimes and becomes part of the plot because of her knowledge. The twist at the end builds excitement. The reader, however, is left with an incomplete understanding of why the murderer committed the crimes.
November 7, 2019
Moving
Hard to imagine the stress for a child who has dreams of murder, just as they occur. Terrible for the parents who, after realising that this is not attention seeking behaviour and try to protect their child. Imagine the lengths they might possibly go to. Unimaginable lengths.
Hard to imagine the stress for a child who has dreams of murder, just as they occur. Terrible for the parents who, after realising that this is not attention seeking behaviour and try to protect their child. Imagine the lengths they might possibly go to. Unimaginable lengths.
May 11, 2017
Corny
No strong character voice. Point of view would change several times within a chapter. Little girl who found killers through her dreams and wasn't creepy at all. Ending was hurried and forced.
No strong character voice. Point of view would change several times within a chapter. Little girl who found killers through her dreams and wasn't creepy at all. Ending was hurried and forced.
September 26, 2022
I agree with other readers - storyline was good but disjointed writing left me wondering how long between scenes. Sometimes the story moved on, it appeared to be much later on in time but was only a day or so! The ending, too, was very abrupt.
September 9, 2017
Not for me
Could not get past chapter two. Sorry, not my read. Physic, don't like stupid story line. No no no no
Could not get past chapter two. Sorry, not my read. Physic, don't like stupid story line. No no no no
June 4, 2019
Pretty good read, the end was a twist I didn’t expect
March 24, 2020
Outstanding
A great story, this one certainty kept you wondering, page after page. Always guessing and the ending just absolutely shocked me
A great story, this one certainty kept you wondering, page after page. Always guessing and the ending just absolutely shocked me
May 28, 2019
A great page turner.
A crime thriller told from the perspective of 8 year old Josie. Her father is a crime scene investigator and often brings his work home and discusses it with her. Josie has psychic dreams in which she is shown crimes and often sees the perpetrator and can draw them afterwards. Whilst this is a great help to her father it also puts her in danger.
It’s a thrilling and interesting read.
A crime thriller told from the perspective of 8 year old Josie. Her father is a crime scene investigator and often brings his work home and discusses it with her. Josie has psychic dreams in which she is shown crimes and often sees the perpetrator and can draw them afterwards. Whilst this is a great help to her father it also puts her in danger.
It’s a thrilling and interesting read.
August 15, 2016
Under the Pines by Jennifer Bisbing is a stunner. I received this book as a free or discounted book via Amazon e-books.
For those who are tired of novels that do not challenge your intelligence, read this.
Any book which changes our brain, or makes us think from a different point of view, is a good read. This story made me uncomfortable. It left me a little shaken up.
Jennifer Bisbing has a new fan. This is an intricate tale with twists and shakes. Startling. Scary, suspenseful.
The main protagonist is a child, and she is strong, smart and follows her instincts.
This novel is of nightmare quality.
For those who are tired of novels that do not challenge your intelligence, read this.
Any book which changes our brain, or makes us think from a different point of view, is a good read. This story made me uncomfortable. It left me a little shaken up.
Jennifer Bisbing has a new fan. This is an intricate tale with twists and shakes. Startling. Scary, suspenseful.
The main protagonist is a child, and she is strong, smart and follows her instincts.
This novel is of nightmare quality.
March 27, 2017
Loved Hy-Vee but...
I was completely engrossed- but I think I missed something. I don't want to spoil it for anyone, so I'll likely read it again to see if I missed something or if the author jumped...
I was completely engrossed- but I think I missed something. I don't want to spoil it for anyone, so I'll likely read it again to see if I missed something or if the author jumped...
April 23, 2017
This book was conceptually interesting but it was so poorly executed that I am immensely disappointed that I finished it. The writing is painful - sloppy transitions, stilted dialogue, confusing passage of time, underdevelopment of the characters, complete lack of emotional investment, etc... I hesitate to even be as generous as 3 stars, but I was engaged enough to get through the whole thing.
April 29, 2017
Well... the blurb is interesting and the premise is amazing, but this book did not deliver. The writing is confusing and disjointed, and I ended up skipping through pages of inane conversations that no person or 8 year old would actually say. The only reason I finished it was to see if it would end how I thought it would, and it did. And I'm done.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews