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Detective Rachel Storme #3
A Penny For Her Heart
Vanessa Johnson Rossi's dream is to work at the White House. Not as the leader of the free world, but as chief of staff, overseeing the executive office of the president. As an assistant working at Buderwood Hills City Hall, she finds herself getting closer to realizing her dream when a plum position becomes available that would put her a step closer working directly for the mayor who has personal connections to the White House. But Vanessa’s hopes are dashed when her best friend, Penelope Newhouse, lands the coveted job. However, when Vanessa discovers Penelope murdered less than a hundred feet from the office she dreamed of occupying, her disappointment turns into devastation. Detective Rachel Storme and her team are put on the case and she soon finds herself delving into the underbelly of politics in search of the killer. The clues point to a litany of suspects, including the mayor. As usual, Detective Storme is determined to solve this case—a case so chock-full of dark and sinister twists and turns, it has her questioning her own competence.
328 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 10, 2017
598 people are currently reading
321 people want to read
About the author
Alretha Thomas
18 books224 followersShortly after graduating from USC with a degree in journalism, Alretha soon realized her interest in her major was not heartfelt. Instead of writing news stories, she wanted to write plays and books. Several years later, her church gave her an outlet to fulfill her writing desires through their Liturgical Fine Arts Department wherein Alretha penned twelve theatre pieces—the community response was overwhelming. This led to plays outside of the church, including Alretha’s One Woman, Two Lives, starring Kellita Smith (The Bernie Mac Show), directed by four-time NAACP Image Award Best Director recipient, Denise Dowse. The production garnered rave reviews from critics and audiences.
In between plays, Alretha self-published her first novel, Daughter Denied, in 2008 and has received glowing reviews from readers and book clubs across the country. Representing her book and plays, Alretha has been the guest on many radio shows and television shows including San Francisco Public Affairs show Bay Sunday with Barbara Rodgers on CBS affiliate, KPIX. She was also interviewed by KTLA News Entertainment Reporter, Sam Rubin. In 2011, Alretha self-published her second novel, Dancing Her Dreams Away, and it was also well received. Her third novel, Married in the Nick of Nine, spawned a four-book series that was acquired by Soul Mate Publishing in January 2014. The series has since reverted back to her. In August 2014, Alretha was awarded the Jessie Redmon Fauset Literary Award for her indie novel, Four Ladies Only. In 2016, Alretha created the Detective Rachel Storme Mystery Series: Justice for Jessica, Losing Lauren and A Penny for Her Heart. In 2018 and 2019 Alretha debuted two additional mystery books—
The Women on Retford Drive and The Truth About Gretchen, respectively. Her most recent novel is The Girl in the Blue Blazer.
Alretha is also an actress and can be seen in numerous commercials and television shows. She currently plays Anastasia Devereaux on Tyler Perry’s Assisted Living that airs on BET.
In between plays, Alretha self-published her first novel, Daughter Denied, in 2008 and has received glowing reviews from readers and book clubs across the country. Representing her book and plays, Alretha has been the guest on many radio shows and television shows including San Francisco Public Affairs show Bay Sunday with Barbara Rodgers on CBS affiliate, KPIX. She was also interviewed by KTLA News Entertainment Reporter, Sam Rubin. In 2011, Alretha self-published her second novel, Dancing Her Dreams Away, and it was also well received. Her third novel, Married in the Nick of Nine, spawned a four-book series that was acquired by Soul Mate Publishing in January 2014. The series has since reverted back to her. In August 2014, Alretha was awarded the Jessie Redmon Fauset Literary Award for her indie novel, Four Ladies Only. In 2016, Alretha created the Detective Rachel Storme Mystery Series: Justice for Jessica, Losing Lauren and A Penny for Her Heart. In 2018 and 2019 Alretha debuted two additional mystery books—
The Women on Retford Drive and The Truth About Gretchen, respectively. Her most recent novel is The Girl in the Blue Blazer.
Alretha is also an actress and can be seen in numerous commercials and television shows. She currently plays Anastasia Devereaux on Tyler Perry’s Assisted Living that airs on BET.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
July 12, 2017
A Penny for Her Heart begins with Vanessa heading into work at the mayor’s office on what should have been her day off, but duty calls. She arrives and heads to her best friend’s office. She and Penelope (Penny) met in college and have been best friends ever since. Once Vanessa enters Penny’s office, she notices almost immediately that things seem a bit off. Penny is nowhere around, which leads Vanessa to check the bathroom. Little did she know that once she set foot in that bathroom, her world would be changed forever. She sees blood everywhere and someone in a stall, but is so distraught all she can do is run out screaming for the security guard on duty to summon the police.
Rachel Storme is attending a cookout at Herb’s, who also happens to be her long-time partner at the police department. When Herb gets the call that there’s been a murder at the mayor’s office, he and Rachel, along with co-workers Vincent and Carlos, who were also attending the get together, head out to the scene of the murder. It doesn’t take Rachel long for that methodical mind of hers to start processing the scene and the people there. She interviews Vanessa, who is understandably upset and ready to just go home. Once finished, Vanessa heads out with the promise to call Rachel if anything of use comes to mind.
As the investigation progresses, Vanessa soon realizes that Penny had a whole other side that she never knew about. Lies are uncovered, hearts are broken and Vanessa finds herself questioning everything she thought she ever knew about her friendship with Penny. While Rachel and her team dig up clues and try to tie together a motive, she knows that the longer it takes them, the chances of finding the killer get smaller. Add to that the family issues Rachel has with her scattered and irresponsible aunt, along with her mother’s Alzheimer’s disease……….some days she just can’t catch a break. The one thing that she excels doing? Pulling together the pieces of evidence and listening to her gut.
A Penny for Her Heart is another wonderfully written book by Alretha Thomas. As I’ve said before, all of the characters in Mrs. Thomas’s books are relatable, as well as believable. While reading this particular one, more than any of the others, I found myself wrong so many times when I thought I’d figured out who the killer was. The twists and turns kept me turning the pages, but Rachel Storme keeps me coming back to this series. Her determination and drive, along with a big ol’ heart, is very endearing. I’m starting to feel repetitive in my reviews of this series, but Rachel is truly one of the most believable and realistic characters I’ve read in a long time. Anyone would feel lucky to have such a person in their lives. If you’re a mystery fan, this one will not disappoint. And, as always, I look forward to the next installment. Well done, Alretha Thomas! Very, very well done!
Rachel Storme is attending a cookout at Herb’s, who also happens to be her long-time partner at the police department. When Herb gets the call that there’s been a murder at the mayor’s office, he and Rachel, along with co-workers Vincent and Carlos, who were also attending the get together, head out to the scene of the murder. It doesn’t take Rachel long for that methodical mind of hers to start processing the scene and the people there. She interviews Vanessa, who is understandably upset and ready to just go home. Once finished, Vanessa heads out with the promise to call Rachel if anything of use comes to mind.
As the investigation progresses, Vanessa soon realizes that Penny had a whole other side that she never knew about. Lies are uncovered, hearts are broken and Vanessa finds herself questioning everything she thought she ever knew about her friendship with Penny. While Rachel and her team dig up clues and try to tie together a motive, she knows that the longer it takes them, the chances of finding the killer get smaller. Add to that the family issues Rachel has with her scattered and irresponsible aunt, along with her mother’s Alzheimer’s disease……….some days she just can’t catch a break. The one thing that she excels doing? Pulling together the pieces of evidence and listening to her gut.
A Penny for Her Heart is another wonderfully written book by Alretha Thomas. As I’ve said before, all of the characters in Mrs. Thomas’s books are relatable, as well as believable. While reading this particular one, more than any of the others, I found myself wrong so many times when I thought I’d figured out who the killer was. The twists and turns kept me turning the pages, but Rachel Storme keeps me coming back to this series. Her determination and drive, along with a big ol’ heart, is very endearing. I’m starting to feel repetitive in my reviews of this series, but Rachel is truly one of the most believable and realistic characters I’ve read in a long time. Anyone would feel lucky to have such a person in their lives. If you’re a mystery fan, this one will not disappoint. And, as always, I look forward to the next installment. Well done, Alretha Thomas! Very, very well done!
July 11, 2017
A Penny For Her Heart by Alretha Thomas is the latest Detective Storme novel. Alretha Thomas has a special talent for making her stories fresh and entertaining. No story is alike and the returning cast of characters are a welcome sight for this reader.
Detective Rachel Storme is definitely the heroine that we all need right now. She is strong, fierce, and smart. She proves once again that she can and will save the day. From early on in the story, there is a grisly murder. While we meet the cast of suspects, and our favorite Buderwoods Police Department has their work cut out for them trying to solve this case that can rock the very core of their beloved city.
The dialogue is spot on, the storyline is believable, and the characters are relatable. From the first chapter, I was drawn into this book. If you love murder mysteries then I definitely recommend this book to you. It is amazing.
I give it 5/5 Platypires.
Detective Rachel Storme is definitely the heroine that we all need right now. She is strong, fierce, and smart. She proves once again that she can and will save the day. From early on in the story, there is a grisly murder. While we meet the cast of suspects, and our favorite Buderwoods Police Department has their work cut out for them trying to solve this case that can rock the very core of their beloved city.
The dialogue is spot on, the storyline is believable, and the characters are relatable. From the first chapter, I was drawn into this book. If you love murder mysteries then I definitely recommend this book to you. It is amazing.
I give it 5/5 Platypires.
July 11, 2017
A Penny For Her Heart (Detective Rachel Storme Book 3) by Alretha Thomas, 328 pages, July 10 2017, Genre: Mystery. Warning: May Contain Spoilers.
I received an ARC copy in exchange for my honest review.
Review by Leigh Holland.
A Penny For Her Heart is the latest installment in the Detective Rachel Storme series from author Alretha Thomas. The book can be read separately from the others as a stand alone. Although this is the first book in the series I’ve read, I intend to pick up the others. Thomas switches perspectives between two strong female characters, Vanessa Rossi and Rachel Storme. She did this masterfully as I never had any trouble keeping up with whose perspective I was reading. I enjoyed being able to see events from the point of view of both the detective solving the murder and the best friend of the victim, forever touched by it.
Vanessa is a bright, ambitious, hard-working political aide who decides to come to city hall on a Saturday to get some work done. She discovers a horrifying murder scene in the ladies’ bathroom. She alerts the guard who looks inside and phones the cops. They confirm that the victim in the stall is Vanessa’s co-worker and best friend, Penelope (“Penny”). Over the course of the story, Vanessa comes to realize her best friend had kept a lot of secrets and even lied- to her, and to everyone. Vanessa, however, has also been keeping a secret from her husband. When he calls her on it, she realizes that even the best intentioned people lie. How well do we really know those closest to us? Are they going through something they believe they can’t talk about? If we don’t really know our nearest and dearest, what awful secrets must strangers hide?
Rachel Storme is honest, dedicated, and relentless in her pursuit of justice for the victim. She shows empathy towards those hurt by the crime and an understanding of human motivation. She doesn’t need her gun or fists most of the time to solve the crime or to get potential perpetrators to talk. She is quick in her assessments and organizes her team well. She has a good ‘gut’ for hunches, too, knowing things aren’t always as cut and dry as they seem. Rachel Storme is a heroine with class.
The plot is very good. I love that the mystery is set against a backdrop of political backstabbing and office politics, giving us many possibilities for the killer’s identity. As information was gained and the net kept widening, it was enjoyable to try to piece together the enigma and solve the crime, traveling the journey with Storme.
I very much enjoyed A Penny For Her Heart. I’d recommend this book to lovers of the mystery genre.
I received an ARC copy in exchange for my honest review.
Review by Leigh Holland.
A Penny For Her Heart is the latest installment in the Detective Rachel Storme series from author Alretha Thomas. The book can be read separately from the others as a stand alone. Although this is the first book in the series I’ve read, I intend to pick up the others. Thomas switches perspectives between two strong female characters, Vanessa Rossi and Rachel Storme. She did this masterfully as I never had any trouble keeping up with whose perspective I was reading. I enjoyed being able to see events from the point of view of both the detective solving the murder and the best friend of the victim, forever touched by it.
Vanessa is a bright, ambitious, hard-working political aide who decides to come to city hall on a Saturday to get some work done. She discovers a horrifying murder scene in the ladies’ bathroom. She alerts the guard who looks inside and phones the cops. They confirm that the victim in the stall is Vanessa’s co-worker and best friend, Penelope (“Penny”). Over the course of the story, Vanessa comes to realize her best friend had kept a lot of secrets and even lied- to her, and to everyone. Vanessa, however, has also been keeping a secret from her husband. When he calls her on it, she realizes that even the best intentioned people lie. How well do we really know those closest to us? Are they going through something they believe they can’t talk about? If we don’t really know our nearest and dearest, what awful secrets must strangers hide?
Rachel Storme is honest, dedicated, and relentless in her pursuit of justice for the victim. She shows empathy towards those hurt by the crime and an understanding of human motivation. She doesn’t need her gun or fists most of the time to solve the crime or to get potential perpetrators to talk. She is quick in her assessments and organizes her team well. She has a good ‘gut’ for hunches, too, knowing things aren’t always as cut and dry as they seem. Rachel Storme is a heroine with class.
The plot is very good. I love that the mystery is set against a backdrop of political backstabbing and office politics, giving us many possibilities for the killer’s identity. As information was gained and the net kept widening, it was enjoyable to try to piece together the enigma and solve the crime, traveling the journey with Storme.
I very much enjoyed A Penny For Her Heart. I’d recommend this book to lovers of the mystery genre.
July 12, 2017
Read this review and more on my blog at [Roxie Writes].
'A Penny For Her Heart' by Alretha Thomas
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5
Finished on July 8, 2017
GIVEN A FREE PAPERBACK COPY IN EXCHANGE FOR REVIEW
FREE on Kindle Unlimited | $3.99 on Kindle | $14.95 in Paperback
BOOK DESCRIPTION:
Vanessa Rossi and her best friend, Penelope Newhouse, both have lofty aspirations of working in the white house. Friends since college, they've worked alongside each other to reach those goals, and just when things are ramping up, Vanessa is devastated when she finds Penelope brutally murdered in the bathroom of the mayor's office. Detective Rachel Storme and her partner take the case, leading them into a dark political underbelly full of interesting and compelling suspects.
MY REVIEW:
I was given a free paperback copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This is an extremely well-done mystery that kept me guessing the entire time. I thought I had it figured out, but dang it if I didn't! It steadily builds upon itself without ever being slow or draggy, and it culminates with a bang.
This novel is written in alternate POVs between Vanessa and Rachel, and Thomas had crafted two well-rounded, strong, female characters. Rachel is sharp and keen-eyed. She is the driving force behind solving the case, but she's also empathetic and always has a listening ear for the people surrounding the victim. Vanessa is sweet, driven, and honest. She's a friend, daughter, sister, and a wife, all while keeping her dreams in sight. She is perfectly aware of her faults and the faults of those around her, but she doesn't allow them to drag her down. She's a lovely character.
HIV/AIDS plays a role in this novel, and as someone living with HIV, I am highly sensitive to the way authors use HIV/AIDS as a plot device. When HIV/AIDS was first brought up in this book, I was skeptical. I thought it might have been used in the typical tropey way -- as a means to make a character seem pathetic or despicable -- but I was delightfully surprised. I don't know if Thomas has been touched by HIV/AIDS in some way in her life or not, but she wrote about the virus in a very respectful way. I very much appreciated that.
'A Penny For Her Heart' by Alretha Thomas
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5
Finished on July 8, 2017
GIVEN A FREE PAPERBACK COPY IN EXCHANGE FOR REVIEW
FREE on Kindle Unlimited | $3.99 on Kindle | $14.95 in Paperback
BOOK DESCRIPTION:
Vanessa Rossi and her best friend, Penelope Newhouse, both have lofty aspirations of working in the white house. Friends since college, they've worked alongside each other to reach those goals, and just when things are ramping up, Vanessa is devastated when she finds Penelope brutally murdered in the bathroom of the mayor's office. Detective Rachel Storme and her partner take the case, leading them into a dark political underbelly full of interesting and compelling suspects.
MY REVIEW:
I was given a free paperback copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This is an extremely well-done mystery that kept me guessing the entire time. I thought I had it figured out, but dang it if I didn't! It steadily builds upon itself without ever being slow or draggy, and it culminates with a bang.
This novel is written in alternate POVs between Vanessa and Rachel, and Thomas had crafted two well-rounded, strong, female characters. Rachel is sharp and keen-eyed. She is the driving force behind solving the case, but she's also empathetic and always has a listening ear for the people surrounding the victim. Vanessa is sweet, driven, and honest. She's a friend, daughter, sister, and a wife, all while keeping her dreams in sight. She is perfectly aware of her faults and the faults of those around her, but she doesn't allow them to drag her down. She's a lovely character.
HIV/AIDS plays a role in this novel, and as someone living with HIV, I am highly sensitive to the way authors use HIV/AIDS as a plot device. When HIV/AIDS was first brought up in this book, I was skeptical. I thought it might have been used in the typical tropey way -- as a means to make a character seem pathetic or despicable -- but I was delightfully surprised. I don't know if Thomas has been touched by HIV/AIDS in some way in her life or not, but she wrote about the virus in a very respectful way. I very much appreciated that.
August 1, 2017
I just finished reading A Penny for her Heart" by Alretha Thomas and it is a terrific murder mystery
This is the third in the new mystery series being offered by Alretha Thomas and it is her best yet. Each book is a standalone story but each has shrewd Detective Rachel Storme and her Partner working hard to solve the murder which is wonderful.
The story this time has political undertones. Two friends are working in City Hall both with high semi-political aspirations. Neither seeks to be the US President, but both would love to be Chief of Staff at the White House.
When a position emerges that would help realize the dream they both have, only one of the friends, Penelope, gets the job. Is it fate that the winner is the one found dead in City Hall? Who killed Penelope?
Secrets surface that force Rachel to consider a number of likely suspects. She has to consider who wins with Penelope's demise, and make them a suspect. With whom was she having an affair? Another suspect? Was there a relationship in her past that did not completely wrap itself up well? Did that leave another suspect?
At various times I thought I knew who did it. Politicians want murders at City Hall resolved quickly but Rachel Storme is thorough, she takes the time she needs to get to the right answers, the right suspect.
I loved the pace of this mystery. This novel is her best so far because the plot is more intricate, tighter. Several of the suspects were quite possible as the murderer and for mystery readers that is the fun.
The author writes in an intelligent tone, but it is comfortable to read. The editing is great so that your reading is not disturbed by the many grammatical errors you find in far too many novels.
Put on your thinking hat, pay attention as characters join the story and you will have a great time reading, "A Penny for her Heart" by Alretha Thomas, who is fast becoming our favorite Sister Sleuth.
This is the third in the new mystery series being offered by Alretha Thomas and it is her best yet. Each book is a standalone story but each has shrewd Detective Rachel Storme and her Partner working hard to solve the murder which is wonderful.
The story this time has political undertones. Two friends are working in City Hall both with high semi-political aspirations. Neither seeks to be the US President, but both would love to be Chief of Staff at the White House.
When a position emerges that would help realize the dream they both have, only one of the friends, Penelope, gets the job. Is it fate that the winner is the one found dead in City Hall? Who killed Penelope?
Secrets surface that force Rachel to consider a number of likely suspects. She has to consider who wins with Penelope's demise, and make them a suspect. With whom was she having an affair? Another suspect? Was there a relationship in her past that did not completely wrap itself up well? Did that leave another suspect?
At various times I thought I knew who did it. Politicians want murders at City Hall resolved quickly but Rachel Storme is thorough, she takes the time she needs to get to the right answers, the right suspect.
I loved the pace of this mystery. This novel is her best so far because the plot is more intricate, tighter. Several of the suspects were quite possible as the murderer and for mystery readers that is the fun.
The author writes in an intelligent tone, but it is comfortable to read. The editing is great so that your reading is not disturbed by the many grammatical errors you find in far too many novels.
Put on your thinking hat, pay attention as characters join the story and you will have a great time reading, "A Penny for her Heart" by Alretha Thomas, who is fast becoming our favorite Sister Sleuth.
July 11, 2017
Vanessa Rossi’s best friend Penelope Newhouse has been brutally murdered at City Hall, where she worked in a position senior to Vanessa. Friends and competitors since USC, Vanessa learns more of Penny’s secrets after her murder than she knew before. As Penny clamored her way to the top, did political candidates use her to undo their opponents? Did one of them murder her? It’s easy to pin the blame on those corrupt politicians, but perhaps, Detective Rachel Storme surmises, someone closer to Penny had more of a motive to want her dead and the politicians aren’t as bad as they seem. “Unbeknownst to the average person, the rapists, child molesters, and murderers aren’t lurking in the shadows; they’re the neighbor, the friendly teacher, or coach. They’re the co-worker or even the boss” (291).
Vanessa and Rachel’s distinct voices as co-narrators help Alretha Thomas weave a personal as well as a stark and creepy who-done-it story. While Vanessa plays the part of empathizer, knowing and accepting Penny warts and all, Rachel is a skeptic from beginning to end. She’s not satisfied until she considers all angles of the case and each suspect in turn. The two narrate every other chapter, ending each with a cliffhanger. Alretha Thomas excels at suspense; with a false ending that deepens the plot, she keeps us rapt until the very end. This third in a series of Detective Rachel Storme mysteries includes book club questions.
Vanessa and Rachel’s distinct voices as co-narrators help Alretha Thomas weave a personal as well as a stark and creepy who-done-it story. While Vanessa plays the part of empathizer, knowing and accepting Penny warts and all, Rachel is a skeptic from beginning to end. She’s not satisfied until she considers all angles of the case and each suspect in turn. The two narrate every other chapter, ending each with a cliffhanger. Alretha Thomas excels at suspense; with a false ending that deepens the plot, she keeps us rapt until the very end. This third in a series of Detective Rachel Storme mysteries includes book club questions.
July 12, 2017
This is the third book in the series and the entire gang is back and in good form.
A young woman is murdered in her office and was found the next morning by her good friend and co-worker, Vanessa. Storme, Herb and the gang catch the case. Storme has a unique way of connecting with friends of the victims. She earns their trust quickly and allows them to contact her day and night with questions and thoughts. Storme and Herb are great partners. This case takes all of their investigative skills as well as their instinct.
Vanessa and her husband Vince are such an adorable couple. Vince provided some laugh out loud moments, which adds a touch of lightness to the story.
Ms. Thomas provides enough twists and turns that just when I thought I had it figured out, I was sent in another direction. She gives us just enough personal information about Storme and Herb's family members that it makes them seem like old friends.
This can easily be read as a standalone. If you do, I encourage you to go back and read the first two.
I highly recommend all three books in the series.
A young woman is murdered in her office and was found the next morning by her good friend and co-worker, Vanessa. Storme, Herb and the gang catch the case. Storme has a unique way of connecting with friends of the victims. She earns their trust quickly and allows them to contact her day and night with questions and thoughts. Storme and Herb are great partners. This case takes all of their investigative skills as well as their instinct.
Vanessa and her husband Vince are such an adorable couple. Vince provided some laugh out loud moments, which adds a touch of lightness to the story.
Ms. Thomas provides enough twists and turns that just when I thought I had it figured out, I was sent in another direction. She gives us just enough personal information about Storme and Herb's family members that it makes them seem like old friends.
This can easily be read as a standalone. If you do, I encourage you to go back and read the first two.
I highly recommend all three books in the series.
July 13, 2017
The books in this series just keep getting better and better. I couldn't put this third book down. The suspense had me ripping through the pages to find out who killed Penelope. Wow, what a ride. Detective Storme and Herb are back and great as ever. I love how smart Detective Rachel Storme is and I love how she works her magic on the witnesses. This book, like the other two, is told from alternative POVs--Rachel's and the murdered woman's best friend, Vanessa Rossi. Vanessa and Penelope (Penny) met in college and they both want to be Chief of Staff to the POTUS. At present they work for the mayor of a small town and are working their way up the political ladder. Unfortunately, Penny's climb comes to a halt when she's murdered. Who did it? Was it the mayor? Maybe one of his opponents? Could it be Vanessa? Every time I thought I had it figured out, I came up wrong. There are so many twists and turns, you won't be able to keep up.
July 13, 2017
This is the third book I've read in this series and this is good as the first two, maybe even better. Two young women, Penelope Newhouse aka Penny and Vanessa Johnson Rossi, want to be the chief of staff to the POTUS, and they're working their way up the political ladder, but Penny is murdered before she can realize her dream. Is her best friend and competitor, Vanessa, the murderer or could it be one of the mayor's opponents? This book had me on the edge of my seat trying to figure out the mystery. Rachel Storme is brilliant as ever, although she does question her abilities in this installment. I love her relationship with Herb, Carlos and Victor. I also enjoyed the story being told in alternate POVs. If you love mysteries, you'll really enjoy this novel that's filled with twists, turns and juicy surprises.
August 10, 2017
A 5-Star Suspenseful Read
This was one mystery I enjoyed reading. The story rings true to life when it comes to political shenanigans, fraud, deception, scandal, betrayal, infidelity, and envy, leading to a gruesome murder. The well-developed provocative, riveting, and explosive characters make the narrative captivating with its cliff-hanging plots, sharp twists and turns, secrets and lies and shocking revelations. The dialogue is extraordinary, where nothing is as it seems and where looks can be deceiving. The edge on your seat, page turning novel delivers diverse and powerful heroes and heroines, which makes the story even more engaging, leading up to an finale that will shock you to the core and asking how well do we really know someone.
This was one mystery I enjoyed reading. The story rings true to life when it comes to political shenanigans, fraud, deception, scandal, betrayal, infidelity, and envy, leading to a gruesome murder. The well-developed provocative, riveting, and explosive characters make the narrative captivating with its cliff-hanging plots, sharp twists and turns, secrets and lies and shocking revelations. The dialogue is extraordinary, where nothing is as it seems and where looks can be deceiving. The edge on your seat, page turning novel delivers diverse and powerful heroes and heroines, which makes the story even more engaging, leading up to an finale that will shock you to the core and asking how well do we really know someone.
July 11, 2017
Intriguing
This is the first book I've read of Thomas, and I know that the Detective Rachel Storme books can be read as stand alone, but I will definitely go back and read the ones that came before this one. I like the writing style of the author and this story is remarkable. It's filled with twists and turns, and the premise is wonderful. Two friends eyeing the same job, and Chief of Staff to the POTUS no less, and one of them ends up dead. Murdered. It's a wonderful story that keeps the reader captivated.
July 13, 2017
I have received the book for a fair review. Actually I have been reading Rachel Storme since she first pop up in my mailbox. Aside from following her private life, her mystery solving skill is becoming legendary. I wish I have her level of detail and her persistence in finding answers to every question.
I would have been like Herb, or some other cop who thought, hey this is it.
But no, Rachel is adamant that she answers all the questions, and fits everything together. I just love how Alrethat's red herrings seem so convincing.
Will the real killer please stand up?
I would have been like Herb, or some other cop who thought, hey this is it.
But no, Rachel is adamant that she answers all the questions, and fits everything together. I just love how Alrethat's red herrings seem so convincing.
Will the real killer please stand up?
August 14, 2017
Death of a public servant
This is the third book with Detective Storms as a partner with Detective Jones. This book involved a gruesome murder of a young woman who worked in the Mayor's office. There are numerous suspects and the Detectives have to eliminate the ones they believe are not involved in the murder.
Excellent book.
This is the third book with Detective Storms as a partner with Detective Jones. This book involved a gruesome murder of a young woman who worked in the Mayor's office. There are numerous suspects and the Detectives have to eliminate the ones they believe are not involved in the murder.
Excellent book.
August 10, 2017
Great Read
The character compilation is awesome. No way to tell whodunit until the final moment, when all is said and done. Looking forward to reading the next in series! Truly romance, murder, mystery, deception, revenge and a great read.
The character compilation is awesome. No way to tell whodunit until the final moment, when all is said and done. Looking forward to reading the next in series! Truly romance, murder, mystery, deception, revenge and a great read.
August 27, 2017
Love this author!
I've just discovered this author this week and have already read 3 of her books. I really like her characters and the fact that I can't figure out who the bad guy is till the end of the book!
I've just discovered this author this week and have already read 3 of her books. I really like her characters and the fact that I can't figure out who the bad guy is till the end of the book!
September 4, 2017
Keeps you guessing
Another good read following storm and Herb with their pursuit for justice in another high profile case. Twists and turns throughout keep you guessing right to the end.
Another good read following storm and Herb with their pursuit for justice in another high profile case. Twists and turns throughout keep you guessing right to the end.
August 21, 2017
Another good read
I have enjoyed each of Alretha Thomas' books and look forward to reading more. The Rachael Storms character is very believanke
I have enjoyed each of Alretha Thomas' books and look forward to reading more. The Rachael Storms character is very believanke
September 27, 2017
Great read but kinda slow & long winded.
January 24, 2018
Another excellent book in the series. This series keeps you thinking about the clues, not making it easy to decide who is the killer.
September 8, 2018
The book had a very odd juxtaposition of present tense and conversation which left me wishing there had been a stricter editor to smooth it out a bit. The use of present tense led to some odd gramatical mistakes and unintended humor. Two detectives "donning" formal clothes at a funeral was probably NOT what the author meant. It was also hard to follow through some sections of conversation as there were no clues of "he said" or "she muttered" which of course was one of the major side effects of using just the present tense. I guess sometimes you have to try something different, it just didn't work well in this book.
The characters were not compelling and seemed rather flat and one dimensional. The plot was predictable and easy to figure out, almost as soon as the guilty character was introduced in the story. There was very little humor, drama or insightful conversation...nothing clever, witty or inspiring to keep you reading...no surprises to keep you hooked.
I applaud any author who sticks to it enough to create a book, as a reader I just wish it had been done better!
The characters were not compelling and seemed rather flat and one dimensional. The plot was predictable and easy to figure out, almost as soon as the guilty character was introduced in the story. There was very little humor, drama or insightful conversation...nothing clever, witty or inspiring to keep you reading...no surprises to keep you hooked.
I applaud any author who sticks to it enough to create a book, as a reader I just wish it had been done better!
September 30, 2018
A PENNY for HER HEART
ALRETHA THOMAS
Reviewed by Roy Murry, Author
A friend of a victim of murder, Vanessa, and one of the lead detectives, Rachel, tells the story of Penny's life and the events surrounding her demise.
Vanessa communicates to the reader, her history of who Penny was, while Rachel delves into the circumstances of finding the killer.
Vanessa and Rachel's path cross at many junctures of this enjoyable drama. Ms. Thomas, in her writing, crosses all the T's and dots all the I's in this convincing character evaluation of a crime and the people close to it.
When the reader reaches the end, the connection between the victim and the killer will be clarified, but who he is and why he did it will amaze you. It is a well-written mystery stand-on-its-own book in a series.
I’ll be back because I love this genre and enjoy the suspense the writer puts into her prose.
ALRETHA THOMAS
Reviewed by Roy Murry, Author
A friend of a victim of murder, Vanessa, and one of the lead detectives, Rachel, tells the story of Penny's life and the events surrounding her demise.
Vanessa communicates to the reader, her history of who Penny was, while Rachel delves into the circumstances of finding the killer.
Vanessa and Rachel's path cross at many junctures of this enjoyable drama. Ms. Thomas, in her writing, crosses all the T's and dots all the I's in this convincing character evaluation of a crime and the people close to it.
When the reader reaches the end, the connection between the victim and the killer will be clarified, but who he is and why he did it will amaze you. It is a well-written mystery stand-on-its-own book in a series.
I’ll be back because I love this genre and enjoy the suspense the writer puts into her prose.
August 27, 2018
Competent Mystery
I had difficulty determining the ethnicity of the characters for some reason, somehow the author presented ethnicity in a slightly unsettling subtext. This is not something I usually notice in a book.
The settings in the book were weirdly familiar (worked near Ladera Heights and was born and raised in Los Angeles County). I found the author’s use of geographical location creepy - as I did with the short-lived “Law and Order” spin-off set in Los Angeles.
The discomfiture is, I am sure, unique to me and should not affect others’ enjoyment of the book.
The storyline itself was fine, the writing competent. And I did not have much of a clue until near the end as to who, and no idea at all as to why!
I had difficulty determining the ethnicity of the characters for some reason, somehow the author presented ethnicity in a slightly unsettling subtext. This is not something I usually notice in a book.
The settings in the book were weirdly familiar (worked near Ladera Heights and was born and raised in Los Angeles County). I found the author’s use of geographical location creepy - as I did with the short-lived “Law and Order” spin-off set in Los Angeles.
The discomfiture is, I am sure, unique to me and should not affect others’ enjoyment of the book.
The storyline itself was fine, the writing competent. And I did not have much of a clue until near the end as to who, and no idea at all as to why!
September 15, 2018
Very thought provoking
I really enjoyed this book. I loved detective Rachel storme, she was a strong independent women that sees the good in everyone despite the fact that she is a detective. I never could figure out who the killer was; I really loved that the book had so many twist and turns. I was drawn into the book after i read the description. Eventhough it was a fiction novel I felt close to the characters, at a few points in the book I was angry that Penny's family had to go through loosing her the way they did.
I really enjoyed this book. I loved detective Rachel storme, she was a strong independent women that sees the good in everyone despite the fact that she is a detective. I never could figure out who the killer was; I really loved that the book had so many twist and turns. I was drawn into the book after i read the description. Eventhough it was a fiction novel I felt close to the characters, at a few points in the book I was angry that Penny's family had to go through loosing her the way they did.
September 16, 2018
A middle of the road book, but it was entertaining. The characterization was good. When the detectives ran into a block they came up w/ some out of the blue idea that comes out of nowhere, and low and behold it is the answer. I do not care for that literary use. It feels as if the author got herself into a corner and abracadabra, the idea comes to her about where the perpetrator might be (no clue beforehand), and then they decide he has to be at a rave party, and there just happens to be one in the neighborhood going on right now. Someone must have given the detective a magic wand.
August 28, 2018
This was a really good story /mystery. It's got revenge, murders, romance, family values, politics and twists you never see coming. There was a tiny clue 50% of the way in that actually hints as to who the killer is, but you have to keep turning those pages to make sure. There were alot of layers to the story that made it so interesting. Glad I read this one.
November 25, 2019
I cannot understand how this book got so many 4 & 5 star ratings. I gave up after 20%, it was a struggle to get that far!
The plot was weak and the writing style felt immature. I couldn't warm to the characters
or the plot. Just not for me. I rarely give up on a book but for this . one an exception was made. Apologies to the author.
The plot was weak and the writing style felt immature. I couldn't warm to the characters
or the plot. Just not for me. I rarely give up on a book but for this . one an exception was made. Apologies to the author.
September 4, 2018
Unusual murder mystery piques interest.
Many surprising events keep your interest, wanting to see what lays around the next corner. Interesting characters reveal themselves little by little, keeping the tension high.
Many surprising events keep your interest, wanting to see what lays around the next corner. Interesting characters reveal themselves little by little, keeping the tension high.
September 6, 2018
Great story, exceptional characters, mystery and many WODUNITS
Were you able to relate to Vanessa, and have you ever been passed over for a job or position that you felt you should have received?
Were you able to relate to Vanessa, and have you ever been passed over for a job or position that you felt you should have received?
October 16, 2018
Penny for her heart
Loved this book!a real page turner, many red herrings,and completely clueless until 3/4 way thru the story!!!!will certainly watch out for this author's nextbook!!
Loved this book!a real page turner, many red herrings,and completely clueless until 3/4 way thru the story!!!!will certainly watch out for this author's nextbook!!
March 23, 2019
What can I say? It held my interest. Liked the characters. Surprised me by ending. Thought the culprit was someone else. Ending a little out of nowhere. An easy read, not edited too carefully on kindle. A decent book overall.
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