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McAllister Justice #0.5
Tender Echoes
Theft of spirit is no one’s birthright.
A quirk of her X chromosome furnished Alexis with an edge few others enjoyed. After fate plunged Lexi into orphan status and an intolerable foster home forced her to the streets, a group of prostitutes sheltered her from their vicious pimp. Seeing something special within, they nurtured and shielded her from their harsh reality until she could forge her own path in life.
Destiny frequently takes us back to our roots. Lexi’s return journey begins when a serial killer attacks someone who’d offered her refuge in her previous life. Relying on courage and wit, she must stay a step ahead and secure evidence to free her family from a psychopathic murderer.
A quirk of her X chromosome furnished Alexis with an edge few others enjoyed. After fate plunged Lexi into orphan status and an intolerable foster home forced her to the streets, a group of prostitutes sheltered her from their vicious pimp. Seeing something special within, they nurtured and shielded her from their harsh reality until she could forge her own path in life.
Destiny frequently takes us back to our roots. Lexi’s return journey begins when a serial killer attacks someone who’d offered her refuge in her previous life. Relying on courage and wit, she must stay a step ahead and secure evidence to free her family from a psychopathic murderer.
68 pages, ebook
First published March 26, 2017
125 people are currently reading
185 people want to read
About the author
Reily Garrett
71 books801 followersReily Garrett is a writer, mother, and companion to three long coat German shepherds. When not working with her dogs, she’s sitting at her desk with her furkids by her side.
Author of chilling suspense and snarky romance, her stories include romantic thrillers and paranormal romance, . Regardless of genre, each book delves into a dark and twisted imagination yet is tempered with romance and a touch of humor.
Reviews by Kirkus Reviews, San Francisco Bay Review, and BestThrillers.com best describe her work:
"This could be James Patterson, Lee Child, and Tess Gerritsen rolled into one, but the dark, twisted methods used by the serial killer could surprise even those readers…” - San Francisco Bay Review
“…steamy, seductive police procedural…” - BestThrillers.com
“…well-researched thriller that remains romantically genuine throughout.” - Kirkus Review
Prior experience in the Military Police, private investigations, and as an ICU nurse gives her fiction a real-world flavor.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
July 12, 2017
Tender Echoes is a little, yet relatively meaty, novella that serves as an introduction to the protagonists of the new (2017) McAllister Justice series. Lexi, a young woman who was orphaned and landed on the streets after failing foster care, takes the lead in this prequel. She was taken under the wing of a group of kind “ladies of the night” who protected her and made it possible for her to escape back to a life with opportunity. She has become a crack internet hacker, a skill that comes in handy in this tale. Her prostitute saviors have come under attack by their pimp and all are too frightened to finger him. Lexi uses her skills and a large amount of courage and wits to anonymously help the cops, including McAllister and partner Larrick, bring down the perp.
These are the things I liked most about this novella: I loved getting to know Lexi, an admirable woman who plays a major role in the next book. I also delighted in her charismatic blue-eyed mongrel shepard Hoover who is constantly at Lexi’s side and is basically her partner. In addition, I really enjoyed a novel-worthy section of action and high suspense that was gripping and bodes well for future books.
All in all, this novella is a great setup for the series. Ms. Garrett has an interesting background, citing her work experience as an ICU nurse, a private investigator, and time with the military police. This gives her plenty of fodder to draw upon for her stories. I’m ready to dig in further, and the first novel of the McAllister Justice series, Digital Velocity, will be my next read.
These are the things I liked most about this novella: I loved getting to know Lexi, an admirable woman who plays a major role in the next book. I also delighted in her charismatic blue-eyed mongrel shepard Hoover who is constantly at Lexi’s side and is basically her partner. In addition, I really enjoyed a novel-worthy section of action and high suspense that was gripping and bodes well for future books.
All in all, this novella is a great setup for the series. Ms. Garrett has an interesting background, citing her work experience as an ICU nurse, a private investigator, and time with the military police. This gives her plenty of fodder to draw upon for her stories. I’m ready to dig in further, and the first novel of the McAllister Justice series, Digital Velocity, will be my next read.
January 31, 2023
This is a great novella that is fast paced, and tautly written with surprisingly good characterization for something so short. The author's voice is fresh with new similes and metaphors that are not tired, and cliché. The main character is adept in a tech savvy sense, but also courageous enough to risk much for her friends. The story beats are punctuated with flair. The writing is surprisingly strong for an author I had never heard about. (I know that sounds obnoxious, but not intentionally.) I have already underscored some strengths which should not just signal how impressed I was, but also how I intend to read more from this author. I have already grabbed some more of the books in this series. Where the plot is not new Garrett infuses a fresh way to tell the tale, so even that is a plus. The only complaint is the brief uncomplicated story. I wanted more. Even so, well done, Ms. Garrett, well done! The series calls to me.
September 4, 2017
This was a short Prequel to a great series. Learning hacking skills can come in handy in this series. This book was a exciting look at the start of great characters and I thought the story was fun to read. I liked how it kept me wanting to read more. * I received this book from the author and this is my honest review*
February 17, 2017
Tender Echoes is a short prequel to the first book in Reily Garrett’s new McAllister Justice Series. I was fortunate enough to be given the chance to beta read both Dark Velocity and Tender Echoes, and I can assure you it’s a series you’re going to want to read.
I came across Reily Garrett when she contacted me for a review of her Carnal Obsession book, and I can tell you that one book lead to one crazy obsession (I was going to try and make a real pun, but such a thing would jar with the fangirl that is to come). You see, Carnal Obsession is a truly wonderful read. If you’ve yet to read it, then I suggest you do. It was the perfect introduction to Reily’s work, showcasing how wonderful a writer she is. Since then, I have gone on to read two more of her Carnal series. I really do need to pick up Carnal Innocence to complete the set, but such is a tangent. Basically, what I’m getting at here is that you need to give her Carnal series a read as it is so much fun.
After I reviewed her prior work, Reily shocked me by asking whether I’d be willing to give her new book a beta read. I’ve never had such an offer before, and I was super nervous, but I can tell you it was more than worth it. The McAllister Justice Series is a straight up contemporary romantic suspense series, not quite as dark as Reily’s other work. It is without the kink of the Carnal series, but it still has all the trademarks of Reily’s work.
In terms of my reading of this series, I actually read Digital Velocity prior to reading Tender Echoes. I enjoyed both of them, but I would suggest reading Tender Echoes first. It works either way around – reading it second meant I got to enjoy more of the characters I adored, yet I knew what was to come in the long run and was disheartened by the type of interaction between the two as it wasn’t what I’d grown accustomed to in Digital Velocity – but reading the events chronologically allows for a better understand of how things progress.
Truthfully, I’m not the biggest lover of short stories. I always seem to expect more from them, finding myself disheartened by how little of a story we’re given. However, Reily Garrett does a wonderful job here. It’s one of the very few short stories where I have considered handing over a five star rating. I’m not sure if I’ll ever hand over a five star rating for a short story – as stated, I always want them to be longer – but this one certainly earned a solid four stars from me.
Everything in this play together really well: it’s short and snappy, straight to the point. It’s a quick little tale, with all you can expect from a suspense read. You’re pulled in from the start, you watch the story slowly come together, and you’re given plenty of action to leave you flipping the pages. It’s pure Reily Garrett, demonstrating all that she can do in a handful of pages.
Moreover, it was lovely to get a glimpse of the Digital Velocity characters before their lives become completely intertwined. We have a much smaller cast in Tender Echoes than we do in Digital Velocity, meaning we get a nice little focus on our main couple. There’s also some nice moments with characters that will be introduced properly in Digital Velocity – but I’m saying no more. Just know it’s a great reflection of all the characters are, giving you a wonderful glance at their individual lives.
Not to mention the end of the story has an ode to something that brought a smile to my face in Digital Velocity. I’m giving no specifics on the matter – but look out for that. It will certainly bring a smile to your face – and I can assure you, you will know what I’m talking about a soon as you see this aspect appearing in both Tender Echoes and Digital Velocity. Your face will light up, much in the way mine did.
Overall, as the above gushing shows, this was a wonderful quick read to really get you in the mood for the McAllister Justice Series. From this short story alone, you know it’s going to be good.
I came across Reily Garrett when she contacted me for a review of her Carnal Obsession book, and I can tell you that one book lead to one crazy obsession (I was going to try and make a real pun, but such a thing would jar with the fangirl that is to come). You see, Carnal Obsession is a truly wonderful read. If you’ve yet to read it, then I suggest you do. It was the perfect introduction to Reily’s work, showcasing how wonderful a writer she is. Since then, I have gone on to read two more of her Carnal series. I really do need to pick up Carnal Innocence to complete the set, but such is a tangent. Basically, what I’m getting at here is that you need to give her Carnal series a read as it is so much fun.
After I reviewed her prior work, Reily shocked me by asking whether I’d be willing to give her new book a beta read. I’ve never had such an offer before, and I was super nervous, but I can tell you it was more than worth it. The McAllister Justice Series is a straight up contemporary romantic suspense series, not quite as dark as Reily’s other work. It is without the kink of the Carnal series, but it still has all the trademarks of Reily’s work.
In terms of my reading of this series, I actually read Digital Velocity prior to reading Tender Echoes. I enjoyed both of them, but I would suggest reading Tender Echoes first. It works either way around – reading it second meant I got to enjoy more of the characters I adored, yet I knew what was to come in the long run and was disheartened by the type of interaction between the two as it wasn’t what I’d grown accustomed to in Digital Velocity – but reading the events chronologically allows for a better understand of how things progress.
Truthfully, I’m not the biggest lover of short stories. I always seem to expect more from them, finding myself disheartened by how little of a story we’re given. However, Reily Garrett does a wonderful job here. It’s one of the very few short stories where I have considered handing over a five star rating. I’m not sure if I’ll ever hand over a five star rating for a short story – as stated, I always want them to be longer – but this one certainly earned a solid four stars from me.
Everything in this play together really well: it’s short and snappy, straight to the point. It’s a quick little tale, with all you can expect from a suspense read. You’re pulled in from the start, you watch the story slowly come together, and you’re given plenty of action to leave you flipping the pages. It’s pure Reily Garrett, demonstrating all that she can do in a handful of pages.
Moreover, it was lovely to get a glimpse of the Digital Velocity characters before their lives become completely intertwined. We have a much smaller cast in Tender Echoes than we do in Digital Velocity, meaning we get a nice little focus on our main couple. There’s also some nice moments with characters that will be introduced properly in Digital Velocity – but I’m saying no more. Just know it’s a great reflection of all the characters are, giving you a wonderful glance at their individual lives.
Not to mention the end of the story has an ode to something that brought a smile to my face in Digital Velocity. I’m giving no specifics on the matter – but look out for that. It will certainly bring a smile to your face – and I can assure you, you will know what I’m talking about a soon as you see this aspect appearing in both Tender Echoes and Digital Velocity. Your face will light up, much in the way mine did.
Overall, as the above gushing shows, this was a wonderful quick read to really get you in the mood for the McAllister Justice Series. From this short story alone, you know it’s going to be good.
September 28, 2017
*** 4.5 Hearts
Tender Echoes is a free prequel in the McAllister Justice series. It is also the first book I have read by Reily and I was hooked from the very start. It might be short but it packs a punch.
Lexi was orphaned as a teen and found a family in the underbelly of the streets with the prostitutes who wanted to protect her. They saw something in her from the beginning. They knew she didn’t belong on the streets. Somehow fate stepped in and connected her with an older woman. A mentor. That is when she discovered her talents with a computer. Now that the only family she knows is in trouble, she will do anything to safe them.
Ethan McAllister is determined to figure out who is killing the prostitutes of the city. They wouldn’t talk but someone was giving him clues. This person was to good to be traced. He wanted to know who it was but it was more important to get the killer off the streets. Will he figure out who Lexi is? Will he catch a killer?
I thought this was a great prequel. It is a glimpse into who these characters are. What they can do and what sacrifices they are willing to make. I am excited to start Digital Velocity and looking forward to the rest of the series.
Quotes:
“What do you think, Hoover, do we pick the hottie or the redneck?”
Her plan was both ballsy and dangerous with freedom for her family on one end and mutilation by a lunatic on the other.
“I’m sure he gets called a lot of things.”
“Most of the time, ‘defendant', I imagine.”
Tender Echoes is a free prequel in the McAllister Justice series. It is also the first book I have read by Reily and I was hooked from the very start. It might be short but it packs a punch.
Lexi was orphaned as a teen and found a family in the underbelly of the streets with the prostitutes who wanted to protect her. They saw something in her from the beginning. They knew she didn’t belong on the streets. Somehow fate stepped in and connected her with an older woman. A mentor. That is when she discovered her talents with a computer. Now that the only family she knows is in trouble, she will do anything to safe them.
Ethan McAllister is determined to figure out who is killing the prostitutes of the city. They wouldn’t talk but someone was giving him clues. This person was to good to be traced. He wanted to know who it was but it was more important to get the killer off the streets. Will he figure out who Lexi is? Will he catch a killer?
I thought this was a great prequel. It is a glimpse into who these characters are. What they can do and what sacrifices they are willing to make. I am excited to start Digital Velocity and looking forward to the rest of the series.
Quotes:
“What do you think, Hoover, do we pick the hottie or the redneck?”
Her plan was both ballsy and dangerous with freedom for her family on one end and mutilation by a lunatic on the other.
“I’m sure he gets called a lot of things.”
“Most of the time, ‘defendant', I imagine.”
February 17, 2017
Confession time!!! I do not fast read or skim on my lecture… in fact I give a hard time to my bestie for doing it… but with this novella…. Ahhhghhh!!!!
Reilys way of writing gets you involved, and knowing this is a prequel and knowing that time is of the essence for the character in this book had me doing things I do not approve of… I FAST READ SOME Parts!!!
Now don't get me wrong. I did not do it because I was bored and wanted to get it over with… I skimmed some parts because I needed to calm myself and know that it would turn out alright.
Of course I returned and read it calmly the second time!!! Whheeewww!
This is the first book for the McAllister Justices Series, to be published on the 26th of march.
Alexis, a teenager suddenly orphaned and thrown to the streets is saved by a circle of prostitutes who saw in her something good, and protected it against the odds, so they became her family.
But one of her protectors is brutally attacked, almost killed and Lexic comes face to face with the sadistic pimp and her would be murderer if she doesn't act quick. He is thirsty for her blood, and won’t let her slip through his hands.
So she puts her hard earned skills in the digital world to help the police, especially detective Ethan McAllister so they can actually capture and convict the Ghetto Beast. Someones that until that moment had been untouchable, because nothing could be linked to him.
Can she actually help or will she become one more victim? Can she outrun and outsmart a psychotic murderer? Can the police catch him before he catches her???
For more on their story I guess will have to wait until Digital Velocity comes out!! I for one, can't wait for it!!!
For more of my reviews visit me at Ingrid's Book Blog
Reily Garrett
Reilys way of writing gets you involved, and knowing this is a prequel and knowing that time is of the essence for the character in this book had me doing things I do not approve of… I FAST READ SOME Parts!!!
Now don't get me wrong. I did not do it because I was bored and wanted to get it over with… I skimmed some parts because I needed to calm myself and know that it would turn out alright.
Of course I returned and read it calmly the second time!!! Whheeewww!
This is the first book for the McAllister Justices Series, to be published on the 26th of march.
Alexis, a teenager suddenly orphaned and thrown to the streets is saved by a circle of prostitutes who saw in her something good, and protected it against the odds, so they became her family.
But one of her protectors is brutally attacked, almost killed and Lexic comes face to face with the sadistic pimp and her would be murderer if she doesn't act quick. He is thirsty for her blood, and won’t let her slip through his hands.
So she puts her hard earned skills in the digital world to help the police, especially detective Ethan McAllister so they can actually capture and convict the Ghetto Beast. Someones that until that moment had been untouchable, because nothing could be linked to him.
Can she actually help or will she become one more victim? Can she outrun and outsmart a psychotic murderer? Can the police catch him before he catches her???
For more on their story I guess will have to wait until Digital Velocity comes out!! I for one, can't wait for it!!!
For more of my reviews visit me at Ingrid's Book Blog
Reily Garrett
September 9, 2017
‘I always wondered if the perverted lunatic my friends feared was you since they kept your identity a secret.’
Bicoastal author Reilly Garrett has been employed as an ICU nurse, a private investigator, and in the military police – all of which supplies her with the intricate and detailed knowledge from which she forges her books. She addresses issues such as man's cruelty and ingenuity for torment and torture, having witnessed the after-effects of a teenager mugged at knife point for a pair of tennis shoes, or an elderly woman stabbed repeatedly with a screwdriver for no apparent reason- all leaving an indelible impression that will forever haunt her subconscious. On the other side other spectrum of experiences she has observed a woman stopping her vehicle in severe, snowy weather to offer her own winter coat to a stranger, a teenager wearing a threadbare hoodie - life's diversities observed by Reilly are endless.
For those fortunate enough to have read DIGITAL VELOCITY, this book TENDER ECHOES is the prequel. Having read DIGITAL VELOCITY first this reader approached the prequel wondering if it could be up to the high standards. The answer is a resounding ‘Yes!’. The infectious flavor of Reilly’s writing hit us as she opens her story with the following – ‘“Jesus, Charlie. Hold on. I’ll get you to a hospital.” Lexi swallowed hard against the rising tide of acid degrading her throat’s lining as the unfolding scene corrupted her sanity. Pressure against the makeshift bandage on Charlie’s belly wound yielded a deeper crimson soaking her jacket, the provisional dressing secured by fingers encased in a thickening, sticky glove. So much blood. This could’ve been Lexi’s fate—stabbed, slashed, disfigured for all time, blood forming rivulets pooling in the alley’s filth. Maroon puddles mingled with body fluids common to alleys sheltering the homeless as if destined to couple in a macabre, virulent concoction. “R-run, Lexi. D-don’t let him make you a w-whore. I wasn’t—strong enough. Y-you were never p-part of the street life.” Trash and other filth from the narrow passageway cushioned Charlie’s bruised and battered head. One front tooth was missing, probably swallowed, while blood seeped from jagged slashes on her cheeks and brow, both career enders in the event she survived. “You shouldn’t be here. It was a mistake to text you, but the cops wouldn’t believe us girls.”
This is a mystery thriller romance and is well outlined as follows – ‘Theft of spirit is no one’s birthright. A quirk of her X chromosome furnished Alexis with an edge few others enjoyed. After fate plunged Lexi into orphan status and an intolerable foster home forced her to the streets, a group of prostitutes sheltered her from their vicious pimp. Seeing something special within, they nurtured and shielded her from their harsh reality until she could forge her own path in life. Destiny frequently takes us back to our roots. Lexi’s return journey begins when a serial killer attacks someone who’d offered her refuge in her previous life. Relying on courage and wit, she must stay a step ahead and secure evidence to free her family from a psychopathic murderer.’
Short, but tense and a terrific introduction make this a terrific novel from a writer of immense skill. This is a series to follow!
Bicoastal author Reilly Garrett has been employed as an ICU nurse, a private investigator, and in the military police – all of which supplies her with the intricate and detailed knowledge from which she forges her books. She addresses issues such as man's cruelty and ingenuity for torment and torture, having witnessed the after-effects of a teenager mugged at knife point for a pair of tennis shoes, or an elderly woman stabbed repeatedly with a screwdriver for no apparent reason- all leaving an indelible impression that will forever haunt her subconscious. On the other side other spectrum of experiences she has observed a woman stopping her vehicle in severe, snowy weather to offer her own winter coat to a stranger, a teenager wearing a threadbare hoodie - life's diversities observed by Reilly are endless.
For those fortunate enough to have read DIGITAL VELOCITY, this book TENDER ECHOES is the prequel. Having read DIGITAL VELOCITY first this reader approached the prequel wondering if it could be up to the high standards. The answer is a resounding ‘Yes!’. The infectious flavor of Reilly’s writing hit us as she opens her story with the following – ‘“Jesus, Charlie. Hold on. I’ll get you to a hospital.” Lexi swallowed hard against the rising tide of acid degrading her throat’s lining as the unfolding scene corrupted her sanity. Pressure against the makeshift bandage on Charlie’s belly wound yielded a deeper crimson soaking her jacket, the provisional dressing secured by fingers encased in a thickening, sticky glove. So much blood. This could’ve been Lexi’s fate—stabbed, slashed, disfigured for all time, blood forming rivulets pooling in the alley’s filth. Maroon puddles mingled with body fluids common to alleys sheltering the homeless as if destined to couple in a macabre, virulent concoction. “R-run, Lexi. D-don’t let him make you a w-whore. I wasn’t—strong enough. Y-you were never p-part of the street life.” Trash and other filth from the narrow passageway cushioned Charlie’s bruised and battered head. One front tooth was missing, probably swallowed, while blood seeped from jagged slashes on her cheeks and brow, both career enders in the event she survived. “You shouldn’t be here. It was a mistake to text you, but the cops wouldn’t believe us girls.”
This is a mystery thriller romance and is well outlined as follows – ‘Theft of spirit is no one’s birthright. A quirk of her X chromosome furnished Alexis with an edge few others enjoyed. After fate plunged Lexi into orphan status and an intolerable foster home forced her to the streets, a group of prostitutes sheltered her from their vicious pimp. Seeing something special within, they nurtured and shielded her from their harsh reality until she could forge her own path in life. Destiny frequently takes us back to our roots. Lexi’s return journey begins when a serial killer attacks someone who’d offered her refuge in her previous life. Relying on courage and wit, she must stay a step ahead and secure evidence to free her family from a psychopathic murderer.’
Short, but tense and a terrific introduction make this a terrific novel from a writer of immense skill. This is a series to follow!
May 3, 2017
Short, but not at all sweet...
To be honest, the opening scene gave me chills. And I mean goosebumps on my arms and a shiver down my spine kind of chills. The rest of the story is fast-paced, suspenseful, and sometimes graphic. The locations and the action are amazingly detailed. You are never confused as to who is where doing what as the story screams forward at light-speed. But the action doesn't overshadow the introduction to these characters that we are going to come to love (although I would be shocked if you don't already).
There is so much grit and heart in Lexi's character that she is a shining light and hope in the story, in spite of her chosen profession in a grey area of the law. Or maybe it is because of it?? I'll let you decide that one for yourself. And Ethan...damn if I don't want to ruffle his feathers a bit and see what he is like behind the badge. OH AND HOOVER!!! what a bonus that bundle of fur is!
Add to all of this the different families you see (Ethan/Larrick, Lexi/Charlie) and the very different natures of all of the "protectors" in the story...you have a thrill ride of a story with guts and heart.
To be honest, the opening scene gave me chills. And I mean goosebumps on my arms and a shiver down my spine kind of chills. The rest of the story is fast-paced, suspenseful, and sometimes graphic. The locations and the action are amazingly detailed. You are never confused as to who is where doing what as the story screams forward at light-speed. But the action doesn't overshadow the introduction to these characters that we are going to come to love (although I would be shocked if you don't already).
There is so much grit and heart in Lexi's character that she is a shining light and hope in the story, in spite of her chosen profession in a grey area of the law. Or maybe it is because of it?? I'll let you decide that one for yourself. And Ethan...damn if I don't want to ruffle his feathers a bit and see what he is like behind the badge. OH AND HOOVER!!! what a bonus that bundle of fur is!
Add to all of this the different families you see (Ethan/Larrick, Lexi/Charlie) and the very different natures of all of the "protectors" in the story...you have a thrill ride of a story with guts and heart.
February 5, 2018
Tender Echoes is a short, action packed novella and prequel to the McAllister Justice Series. Lexi lives on the streets and is taken in by a group of prostitutes. When the unthinkable happens to one of her protectors Lexi puts her computer hacking skills to work and anonymously helps the police. Tender Echoes sets up the characters for the McAllister Justice Series and leaves you wanting more.
March 30, 2017
TENDER ECHOES IS A WONDERFUL START TO THE MCALLISTER JUSTICE SERIES. WE ARE INTRODUCED TO LEXI WHO HAD BEEN LIVING ON THE STREETS SINCE HER PARENTS DEATHS. THE PROSTITUTES HAVE ALWAYS PROTECTED AND SHELTER HER FROM STREET LIFE. THE PROSTITUTES SAW SOMETHING SPECIAL IN LEXI AND WANTED HER TO HAVE A NORMAL LIFE. LEXI MANAGES TO GET OFF THE STREETS AND FINDS A JOB WITH THE HELP OF A FRIEND BUT SHE NEVER FORGETS HER FRIENDS FROM THE STREET WHO HELPED HER WHEN NO ONE ELSE WOULD. SO WHEN THE PROSTITUTES ARE BEING KILLED BY A SERIAL KILLER, SHE USES ALL HER SKILLS TO CATCH THE KILLER. LEXI MAKES CONTACT WITH ETHAN INDIRECTLY PROVIDING HIM CLUES TO WHO IS DOING THE KILLING. WILL LEXI AND ETHAN BE ABLE TO STOP THE KILLER IN TIME?
TENDER ECHOS IS A PREQUEL TO THE MCALLISTER JUSTICE SERIES. I REALLY ENJOYED THE STORYLINE. THE AUTHOR DID A WONDERFUL JOB IN DESCRIBING CRIME SCENES AND CHARACTERS. SOME OF THE SCENES WERE VERY DARK AT TIMES. TENDER ECHOES IS FAST PACED READ FOR ME THAT KEPT ME GUESSING WHAT IS GOING TO HAPPEN NEXT. IT IS FILLED WITH ALOT OF ACTION AND KEEPS YOU ON THE EDGE OF YOUR SEAT. I HAVE TO SAY LEXI IS MY FAVORITE CHARACTER. SHE IS VERY SMART, INTELLIGENT, SPECIAL AND IS USING HER SKILLS TO HELP PEOPLE. I ALSO LIKE ETHAN'S CHARACTER. HE IS A VERY GOOD MAN WHO WANTS TO STOP THE CRIMINALS AND THERE JUST WAS A CONNECTION BETWEEN HIM AND LEXI.
I AM REALLY LOOKING FORWARD TO THE NEXT BOOK IN THE SERIES. I CAN'T WAIT TO SEE WHAT HAPPENS NEXT WITH LEXI AND ETHAN. THIS IS MUST READ IF YOU ENJOY A GOOD ACTION PACT MURDER MYSTERY. YOU WILL ENJOY REILY'S WRITING. SHE HAS WAY OF DESCRIBING A VERY DETAILED SCENE THAT YOU CAN ACTUALLY PICTURE AND THE CHARACTERS FEEL VERY REAL. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND YOU READ THIS AWESOME SERIES.
TENDER ECHOS IS A PREQUEL TO THE MCALLISTER JUSTICE SERIES. I REALLY ENJOYED THE STORYLINE. THE AUTHOR DID A WONDERFUL JOB IN DESCRIBING CRIME SCENES AND CHARACTERS. SOME OF THE SCENES WERE VERY DARK AT TIMES. TENDER ECHOES IS FAST PACED READ FOR ME THAT KEPT ME GUESSING WHAT IS GOING TO HAPPEN NEXT. IT IS FILLED WITH ALOT OF ACTION AND KEEPS YOU ON THE EDGE OF YOUR SEAT. I HAVE TO SAY LEXI IS MY FAVORITE CHARACTER. SHE IS VERY SMART, INTELLIGENT, SPECIAL AND IS USING HER SKILLS TO HELP PEOPLE. I ALSO LIKE ETHAN'S CHARACTER. HE IS A VERY GOOD MAN WHO WANTS TO STOP THE CRIMINALS AND THERE JUST WAS A CONNECTION BETWEEN HIM AND LEXI.
I AM REALLY LOOKING FORWARD TO THE NEXT BOOK IN THE SERIES. I CAN'T WAIT TO SEE WHAT HAPPENS NEXT WITH LEXI AND ETHAN. THIS IS MUST READ IF YOU ENJOY A GOOD ACTION PACT MURDER MYSTERY. YOU WILL ENJOY REILY'S WRITING. SHE HAS WAY OF DESCRIBING A VERY DETAILED SCENE THAT YOU CAN ACTUALLY PICTURE AND THE CHARACTERS FEEL VERY REAL. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND YOU READ THIS AWESOME SERIES.
April 13, 2017
Family comes in all shapes and forms. In Tender Echoes, family comes in the shape of prostitutes who take care of each other and girl who finds herself on the streets. Family also comes in the form of the kindness of others who help her get the support that she needs so that she can reach her potential. But help goes both ways and when the pimp who is boss over her family decides to punish one of them Lexi decides to make sure he doesn't get away with it.
Lexi is a bright girl that has been given a hard road in life but she is loyal to those who have supported her. She is brave and even if she fears what might happen to her, she will do everything in her power to make sure justice comes to the pimp.
Ethan is the detective that Lexi is giving information to. He seems like a good person who wants to have justice come down on the pimp as well. Lexi has a lot of trust issues that is preventing her from telling Ethan who she is and that she is the one who is giving him all the information.
Tender Echoes is a prequel to this series. I like the fact the Lexi is smart and uses her skills to help those who need help around her. Ethan is also an interesting character and I hope we are going to learn more about him in the future. There was no romance in this part of the story but a lot of action that set this series up for some interesting adventures in the future.
I was given this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Lexi is a bright girl that has been given a hard road in life but she is loyal to those who have supported her. She is brave and even if she fears what might happen to her, she will do everything in her power to make sure justice comes to the pimp.
Ethan is the detective that Lexi is giving information to. He seems like a good person who wants to have justice come down on the pimp as well. Lexi has a lot of trust issues that is preventing her from telling Ethan who she is and that she is the one who is giving him all the information.
Tender Echoes is a prequel to this series. I like the fact the Lexi is smart and uses her skills to help those who need help around her. Ethan is also an interesting character and I hope we are going to learn more about him in the future. There was no romance in this part of the story but a lot of action that set this series up for some interesting adventures in the future.
I was given this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 27, 2017
This was such a thrilling read everything that Lexi does is truly brave she reminds me of veronica mars one of my all time favorite shows every time she comes close to her attacker I am on the edge of my seat waiting to see what will happen , her dog is super awesome I love books that have dog interactions . I was liked that relationship that Ethan has with his partner their easy banter had me laughing . Tender Echoes leaves you wanting more and more of theses characters .
copy provided for honest review
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heroine = 9
humor = 4 darkness level = 7 enjoyment =8 story line =8
pacing = 10 cover = 9 stars = 4 author = 10
would I recommend this book = yes
would I re read this book = yes
would I read future books by this author = yes
copy provided for honest review
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heroine = 9
humor = 4 darkness level = 7 enjoyment =8 story line =8
pacing = 10 cover = 9 stars = 4 author = 10
would I recommend this book = yes
would I re read this book = yes
would I read future books by this author = yes
March 29, 2017
Lexi and Ethan, In The Beginning
This book kept me enthralled from its first pages. Ms. Garrett uses words as sensuously and beautifully as a poet songwriter such as Leonard Cohen or Joan Baez. The story told is gritty and scary and dangerous as hell. The dialogue between her sharply drawn characters is realistic and moves the plot forward as only great dialogue can do. And the plot is tightly drawn and moves the reader from the terrifying beginning to the satisfying end.
This book kept me enthralled from its first pages. Ms. Garrett uses words as sensuously and beautifully as a poet songwriter such as Leonard Cohen or Joan Baez. The story told is gritty and scary and dangerous as hell. The dialogue between her sharply drawn characters is realistic and moves the plot forward as only great dialogue can do. And the plot is tightly drawn and moves the reader from the terrifying beginning to the satisfying end.
March 20, 2017
A Prequel With Bite......
TENDER ECHOES is the prequel to Reilly Garrett's new series, McAllister Justice. Even though this is only a short novella, it still is able to pack quite a punch. This is a wonderful story that moves at a fairly rapid pace and it kept me thoroughly hooked until the end.
Lexi is a teenager, who suddenly becomes orphaned, and is taken in by some prostitutes and becomes a member of their "family". Lexi is a computer hacker, she joins forces with Detective Ethan McAllister, to stop a serial killer before he strikes again.
This was a really quick read, but nothing was left wanting. Reilly Garrett has ensured that this novell was action packed from the very outset. There's suspense and thrills included as well. An excellent read for a prequel. Book One in the series, Digital Velocity, will be available shortly.
Read and reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction Blog.
FIVE STARS
TENDER ECHOES is the prequel to Reilly Garrett's new series, McAllister Justice. Even though this is only a short novella, it still is able to pack quite a punch. This is a wonderful story that moves at a fairly rapid pace and it kept me thoroughly hooked until the end.
Lexi is a teenager, who suddenly becomes orphaned, and is taken in by some prostitutes and becomes a member of their "family". Lexi is a computer hacker, she joins forces with Detective Ethan McAllister, to stop a serial killer before he strikes again.
This was a really quick read, but nothing was left wanting. Reilly Garrett has ensured that this novell was action packed from the very outset. There's suspense and thrills included as well. An excellent read for a prequel. Book One in the series, Digital Velocity, will be available shortly.
Read and reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction Blog.
FIVE STARS
February 8, 2017
I received a copy of this novella as an ARC from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review...This is a great short story...thrilling and fast paced not to mention quite dark in some places..... without giving the plot away the story focuses on the central character Lexi a smart computer hacker; when one of her 'adopted family' is seriously assaulted she uses her skills to search for the attacker and clandestinely assist a homicide detective Ethan McAllister to hunt down a serial killer before he strikes again.
The two main characters are both interesting and credible and the supporting cast are well written; I want to know more about Lexi, Ethan and their friends and it would be remiss of me at this point not to give a special mention to Hoover, Lexi's partner and protector.
I love the authors ability to use the written word to describe vividly a scene or a character....this may be a novella but it is packed full of action and suspense....the plot develops swiftly leading to a satisfactory conclusion....This is a strong starting point for a new series which I can not wait to read.....
The two main characters are both interesting and credible and the supporting cast are well written; I want to know more about Lexi, Ethan and their friends and it would be remiss of me at this point not to give a special mention to Hoover, Lexi's partner and protector.
I love the authors ability to use the written word to describe vividly a scene or a character....this may be a novella but it is packed full of action and suspense....the plot develops swiftly leading to a satisfactory conclusion....This is a strong starting point for a new series which I can not wait to read.....
May 24, 2017
Great start to a new series. This fast-paced read is filled with drama, suspense and emotion. Lexi and Ethan are great characters. Looking forward to more in the series.
August 10, 2017
Nail Biting Adventure Just Ended Too Soon!
Excellent Book. I really found myself biting my nails at one point and when something really scary and exciting was taking place while our hacker was on the run and someone slammed a door in my house I about jumped out of my chair. Story was great. Characters were well played. I wish the story would have gone on longer instead of suddenly Otis is arrested all the girls get money and the book ends. I would have liked a little more depth to the relationship between the detectives and their hacker other then ending with flowers. But I guess that is why I immediately bought the next book in the series tonight. The others sound interesting as well!
Excellent Book. I really found myself biting my nails at one point and when something really scary and exciting was taking place while our hacker was on the run and someone slammed a door in my house I about jumped out of my chair. Story was great. Characters were well played. I wish the story would have gone on longer instead of suddenly Otis is arrested all the girls get money and the book ends. I would have liked a little more depth to the relationship between the detectives and their hacker other then ending with flowers. But I guess that is why I immediately bought the next book in the series tonight. The others sound interesting as well!
July 13, 2017
This was such a great lead in to Digital Velocity! It had action, it had suspense, and kept me on the edge of my seat! Definitely recommend reading this first before you jump into Digital Velocity.
March 2, 2018
Tender Echoes - Prequel to Digital Velocity McAllister Justice Series Bk 1 - Written by Reily Garrett
Theft of spirit or LIFE is no one’s birthright.
A quirk of her X chromosome furnished Alexis with an edge few others enjoyed. After fate plunged Lexi into orphan status and an intolerable foster home forced her to the streets, a group of prostitutes sheltered her from their vicious pimp. Seeing something special within, they nurtured and shielded her from their harsh reality until she could forge her own path in life. Destiny frequently takes us back to our roots. Lexi’s return journey begins when a serial killer attacks someone who’d offered her refuge in her previous life. Relying on courage and wit, she must stay a step ahead and secure evidence to free her family from a psychopathic murderer.
What did I like? Lexi is my little hero and it is awesome her courage in trying to make things right and pay back a little of the kindness that was shown to her when she needed it so much.
What will you like? Mystery, Thriller, Action, Adventure, Murder, Psychological thriller, and romance. The action is fast and tense with Lexi and the McAlister boys right in the mix of things. This will give you the beginning of Lexi’s story and how she fights a serial killer.
Theft of spirit or LIFE is no one’s birthright.
A quirk of her X chromosome furnished Alexis with an edge few others enjoyed. After fate plunged Lexi into orphan status and an intolerable foster home forced her to the streets, a group of prostitutes sheltered her from their vicious pimp. Seeing something special within, they nurtured and shielded her from their harsh reality until she could forge her own path in life. Destiny frequently takes us back to our roots. Lexi’s return journey begins when a serial killer attacks someone who’d offered her refuge in her previous life. Relying on courage and wit, she must stay a step ahead and secure evidence to free her family from a psychopathic murderer.
What did I like? Lexi is my little hero and it is awesome her courage in trying to make things right and pay back a little of the kindness that was shown to her when she needed it so much.
What will you like? Mystery, Thriller, Action, Adventure, Murder, Psychological thriller, and romance. The action is fast and tense with Lexi and the McAlister boys right in the mix of things. This will give you the beginning of Lexi’s story and how she fights a serial killer.
April 20, 2019
~Exciting prologue
~Okay, I will admit, I missed this short story when I was reading the McAllister Justice series! I just recently went back and read it. And it was well worth it.
~Lexi is the computer wizard of the McAllister clan…and of the series. While the other books hint about her background, this short story really is the introduction into who she is. “Digital Velocity”, the next book in the series, is really all about her and police Detective Ethan McAllister. This little story gives a good glimpse into the early person of Lexi.
~Each one of the characters associated with the McAllister family have their talents and are well written. However, Lexi is by far my favorite character.
~This story also gives a glimpse into the gritty writing style of author Reily Garrett. The author strives to produce a story that will engage the reader, while providing an on-the-edge-of-your-seat reading experience!
~I definitely recommend this short story…and the series.
~Okay, I will admit, I missed this short story when I was reading the McAllister Justice series! I just recently went back and read it. And it was well worth it.
~Lexi is the computer wizard of the McAllister clan…and of the series. While the other books hint about her background, this short story really is the introduction into who she is. “Digital Velocity”, the next book in the series, is really all about her and police Detective Ethan McAllister. This little story gives a good glimpse into the early person of Lexi.
~Each one of the characters associated with the McAllister family have their talents and are well written. However, Lexi is by far my favorite character.
~This story also gives a glimpse into the gritty writing style of author Reily Garrett. The author strives to produce a story that will engage the reader, while providing an on-the-edge-of-your-seat reading experience!
~I definitely recommend this short story…and the series.
January 14, 2019
Despite the tragedy that forced Lexi to live in the streets, she was still a breath of fresh air. The prostitutes took her under their wing, sheltered and nurtured her so she could find her right path in life.
Lexi learned incredible computer skills. She also had hacking tendencies that helped others. Lexi's kindness and thoughtfulness to help others as they had helped her when she really needed it.
When Lexi's friend is attacked by her pimp, she sends anonymous tips to the police so they can apprehend the serial before he gets to her or one of her friends.
I loved the banter between Detective Ethan McAllister and his partner Larius.
Tender Echoes is a great introduction to the McAllister series. Filled with suspense and mystery. The characters are flawless. Digital Velocity is the next book of this series.
Lexi learned incredible computer skills. She also had hacking tendencies that helped others. Lexi's kindness and thoughtfulness to help others as they had helped her when she really needed it.
When Lexi's friend is attacked by her pimp, she sends anonymous tips to the police so they can apprehend the serial before he gets to her or one of her friends.
I loved the banter between Detective Ethan McAllister and his partner Larius.
Tender Echoes is a great introduction to the McAllister series. Filled with suspense and mystery. The characters are flawless. Digital Velocity is the next book of this series.
July 4, 2017
When her friend Charlie is stabbed in an alley, Lexi comes to her aid and decides she must do something to stop the man who hurt her from doing the same to others. With only her hacking talents and street smarts, she'll run against time to best a criminal before he can do the same or worse to her.
I picked this book up because I'm scheduled to read the ARC for Digital Velocity and found out there was a prequel which, being the stickler I am, I had to read. I liked the characters and the plot and imagine this was ground work for the next book. I was a little apprehensive about the author's style because it seemed a bit "clinical" to me, but this was a short story, fast paced and it was not a bad delivery. I'm honestly looking forward to more from this series.
I picked this book up because I'm scheduled to read the ARC for Digital Velocity and found out there was a prequel which, being the stickler I am, I had to read. I liked the characters and the plot and imagine this was ground work for the next book. I was a little apprehensive about the author's style because it seemed a bit "clinical" to me, but this was a short story, fast paced and it was not a bad delivery. I'm honestly looking forward to more from this series.
March 10, 2019
A very intense thriller! You absolutely will devour this novella in one sitting!
Reily Garrett has written a gem to introduce the McAllister's Justice seies! This story, is the anxiety inducing begining of Ethan a handsome, hardworking detective and Lexi! She is the intelligent girl who has mad skills to hack documents loaded with evidence and then sends those clues to Ethan to catch a killer!
The characters are amazing, especially Lexi and antagonist who is a psychopathic pimp!
Just add wine and chocolate and enjoy this heartpounding and scary short story that is guranteed to keep the pages turning! Never a dull moment!
Reily Garrett has written a gem to introduce the McAllister's Justice seies! This story, is the anxiety inducing begining of Ethan a handsome, hardworking detective and Lexi! She is the intelligent girl who has mad skills to hack documents loaded with evidence and then sends those clues to Ethan to catch a killer!
The characters are amazing, especially Lexi and antagonist who is a psychopathic pimp!
Just add wine and chocolate and enjoy this heartpounding and scary short story that is guranteed to keep the pages turning! Never a dull moment!
January 26, 2019
Lexi was an orphan then thrust into the streets, women of the streets, sheltered her. With forged ID she got a certificate to be a dog handler, ring joy to people in the hospital. When the pimp turned on ?Charlie, she decided to turn on him. She was good as a internet hacker and with her skills she anonymously got evidence for the police and they were able to bring him down. A great beginning to series.
May 15, 2022
I almost didn't read this because of the title. To me the word dark conjures up subjects that are scary or distasteful. I am glad I read this book. This was a good introduction to characters in & out of law enforcement. Most are heroes that don't take credit for trying to forget segments of society usually ignored. I hope to read more of this series.
February 26, 2023
I am a bit on the fence about this book. I struggled with the writing style a bit but I enjoyed the character and her canine companion and might enjoy the somewhat befuddled (at the hacker) homicide detective. However, curiosity has me buying the next book in the McAllister Justice series to see how the series evolves (and my challenge with the author's writing style).
December 27, 2023
Excellent story!!!
I was undecided whether to read this prequel before starting the series. But, to my surprise, this was excellent. The author draws you into a world of danger and a lot of humor. Very good, with characters that will captivate you and keep you reading til the very end. Excellent start to a very intriguing series.
I was undecided whether to read this prequel before starting the series. But, to my surprise, this was excellent. The author draws you into a world of danger and a lot of humor. Very good, with characters that will captivate you and keep you reading til the very end. Excellent start to a very intriguing series.
August 17, 2024
Nice short
A nice little short introducing us to Lexi. It is listed here as a prequel to Digital Velocity, which it is. This gives the details to the events mentioned about how Lexi and Ethan became acquainted. Details are nice when reading a series. Maybe not necessary, but nice. Definitely indicates lots of action to come. I look forward to more.
A nice little short introducing us to Lexi. It is listed here as a prequel to Digital Velocity, which it is. This gives the details to the events mentioned about how Lexi and Ethan became acquainted. Details are nice when reading a series. Maybe not necessary, but nice. Definitely indicates lots of action to come. I look forward to more.
December 7, 2021
Wonderful read!
Tender Echos was a very nice read! The insight into dark lives seemed to make me forgive the audacity of the thought that digital fingerprints can't be traced by the police.
Tender Echos was a very nice read! The insight into dark lives seemed to make me forgive the audacity of the thought that digital fingerprints can't be traced by the police.
June 22, 2024
Great Book
I enjoyed reading this prequel to the series. Unfortunately, I read the last book first so now I will get busy reading the first one. I find all of Reilly's books to be well written.
I enjoyed reading this prequel to the series. Unfortunately, I read the last book first so now I will get busy reading the first one. I find all of Reilly's books to be well written.
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