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Ellie Matthews #1
Bitter Past
From USA Today bestselling author Caroline Fardig comes a gripping new forensic mystery series.
Three years ago, criminalist Ellie Matthews was blindsided when a grisly homicide case suddenly became personal. She abandoned the danger and stress of crime scene investigation for a professorship at a posh private college and never looked back.
Now, Ellie’s pleasant world is shattered when she finds the dead body of a female student. The campus is in chaos, reporters are circling like vultures, and Ellie is trying her best to distance herself from the situation. Not an easy task when her closest colleague becomes the prime suspect.
After the college community is rocked by another suspicious death, Ellie’s mentor, Sheriff Jayne Walsh, convinces her to consult on the case. Partnered with quick-witted Detective Nick Baxter, Ellie reluctantly bottles up her personal demons and dives back into the world she left behind, racing to make sense of the evidence before the killer strikes again.
Three years ago, criminalist Ellie Matthews was blindsided when a grisly homicide case suddenly became personal. She abandoned the danger and stress of crime scene investigation for a professorship at a posh private college and never looked back.
Now, Ellie’s pleasant world is shattered when she finds the dead body of a female student. The campus is in chaos, reporters are circling like vultures, and Ellie is trying her best to distance herself from the situation. Not an easy task when her closest colleague becomes the prime suspect.
After the college community is rocked by another suspicious death, Ellie’s mentor, Sheriff Jayne Walsh, convinces her to consult on the case. Partnered with quick-witted Detective Nick Baxter, Ellie reluctantly bottles up her personal demons and dives back into the world she left behind, racing to make sense of the evidence before the killer strikes again.
310 pages, ebook
First published September 5, 2017
598 people are currently reading
700 people want to read
About the author
Caroline Fardig
28 books290 followersCAROLINE FARDIG is the USA TODAY BESTSELLING AUTHOR of the Java Jive Mysteries series and the Lizzie Hart Mysteries series. Fardig's BAD MEDICINE was named one of the "Best Books of 2015" by Suspense Magazine. She worked as a schoolteacher, church organist, insurance agent, funeral parlor associate, and stay-at-home mom before she realized that she wanted to be a writer when she grew up. Born and raised in a small town in Indiana, Fardig still lives in that same town with an understanding husband, two sweet kids, two energetic dogs, and one malevolent cat.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
January 7, 2018
Bitter Past is a treat for lovers of not only mystery/suspense/crime, but especially for those who love the forensic aspects of a murder investigation.
Ellie Matthews is a well-known criminalist who walked away from her profession when it became very personal. She is now happily teaching at a local college.
Ellie's life turns topsy-turvy when she finds the murdered body of a young female student. It gets even worse when one of her colleagues is accused of the crime. And then there is a second murder of another student. The sheriff convinces Ellie to come back and consult and partners her with Detective Nick Baxter.
This is a well written crime novel. The author has certainly done her research in all things forensic. I've learned more than I'll ever need to know about DNA, fingerprinting, collecting, preserving and analyzing all manner of evidence.
I really like the characters. Ellie has issues, but she's strong enough to try to work through them. She lives with her sister and nephew and family means everything to her. Her partner, Nick, is as dedicated as Ellie. There are various suspects who may have had motivation for killing, and it's going to take Ellie's expertise to nail the killer.
I look forward to reading the next addition to this series, AN EYE FOR AN EYE.
Many thanks to the author / Netgalley for the digital copy. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
Ellie Matthews is a well-known criminalist who walked away from her profession when it became very personal. She is now happily teaching at a local college.
Ellie's life turns topsy-turvy when she finds the murdered body of a young female student. It gets even worse when one of her colleagues is accused of the crime. And then there is a second murder of another student. The sheriff convinces Ellie to come back and consult and partners her with Detective Nick Baxter.
This is a well written crime novel. The author has certainly done her research in all things forensic. I've learned more than I'll ever need to know about DNA, fingerprinting, collecting, preserving and analyzing all manner of evidence.
I really like the characters. Ellie has issues, but she's strong enough to try to work through them. She lives with her sister and nephew and family means everything to her. Her partner, Nick, is as dedicated as Ellie. There are various suspects who may have had motivation for killing, and it's going to take Ellie's expertise to nail the killer.
I look forward to reading the next addition to this series, AN EYE FOR AN EYE.
Many thanks to the author / Netgalley for the digital copy. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
December 28, 2023
Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) provided by the Author and Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an fair and honest review.
I am so excited about this book. Caroline Fardig is the author of the wonderful cozy mystery series, "Java Jibe", and is branching out to mystery - thriller territory. I really enjoyed this book. Ellie has a lot of quirks and has a backstory that will make you cry. She also has terrible taste in men, a fault she shares with her sister. In fact, Ellie reminds me of another fictional character, a detective named Kinsey Millhone (created by author Sue Grafton). I can only hope that Ellie has as long a fictional life as Kinsey has had.
Ellie Matthews is a college professor who had to give up her career as a criminalist after a particularly nasty case. Ellie is exploring the site for a new forensic facility with her friend and colleague, Dudley Cooper, when she discovers the body of a student. With the campus already in an uproar over the proposed facility, the murder had everyone on edge. Gossip is running wild and both the local news reporters and the campus reporters are looking for a hot story. When another student dies Ellie is asked to help with the forensics of the case. While not at all happy to be back in that world, Ellie doesn't want to disappoint her dear friend, the Sheriff. She is working closely with Detective Nick Baxter and the two make a great team. After Dudley becomes the prime suspect, Ellie is forced to choose between the law and her friend. Ellie is determined to prove Dudley is innocent, but the students who can help are on the run and the evidence is not helping her. There are a lot of suspects and I love it when I can't guess who the baddie is.
I am so excited about this book. Caroline Fardig is the author of the wonderful cozy mystery series, "Java Jibe", and is branching out to mystery - thriller territory. I really enjoyed this book. Ellie has a lot of quirks and has a backstory that will make you cry. She also has terrible taste in men, a fault she shares with her sister. In fact, Ellie reminds me of another fictional character, a detective named Kinsey Millhone (created by author Sue Grafton). I can only hope that Ellie has as long a fictional life as Kinsey has had.
Ellie Matthews is a college professor who had to give up her career as a criminalist after a particularly nasty case. Ellie is exploring the site for a new forensic facility with her friend and colleague, Dudley Cooper, when she discovers the body of a student. With the campus already in an uproar over the proposed facility, the murder had everyone on edge. Gossip is running wild and both the local news reporters and the campus reporters are looking for a hot story. When another student dies Ellie is asked to help with the forensics of the case. While not at all happy to be back in that world, Ellie doesn't want to disappoint her dear friend, the Sheriff. She is working closely with Detective Nick Baxter and the two make a great team. After Dudley becomes the prime suspect, Ellie is forced to choose between the law and her friend. Ellie is determined to prove Dudley is innocent, but the students who can help are on the run and the evidence is not helping her. There are a lot of suspects and I love it when I can't guess who the baddie is.
February 17, 2018
“Bitter Past”earns 5+/5 Headlines…Mystery Thriller Extraordinaire!
Activism and vandalism often go hand in hand like mystery and murder. A young woman adamant to stop plans by Ashmore College’s Dr. Dudley Cooper to set up a “body farm” for forensic research decides to take her protest to ground zero. She and a companion paint signs of protest, using pig’s blood for dramatic effect, at Carnival Cove, an abandoned amusement park purchased by the professor. But, the ear-spitting crack, the excruciating pain, the real blood soaking her chest spelled murder. Wow, what a prologue! From here Caroline Fardig pens a nail-biting engaging thriller with multiple dead bodies, campus chaos, ravenous reporters, and the resurfacing of personal demons with which our heroine must contend.
Caroline Fardig’s book one of her Elle Matthews series kept me on the edge of my seat with twists and turns, volatile family dynamics, secrets, innuendos, and weaving throughout fascinating information on CSI techniques, evidence gathering, and lab testing. But it's Caroline’s characters in which I have invested my interest. Written in first-person, the heroine Ellie Matthews, is admirable for her forensic expertise, critical perspective, witty humor, and loyalty to family and friends. A well-respected criminologist, she turned in her CSI credentials for a position in the forensic anthropology department at a posh private college; a grisly criminal investigation had become deeply personal, and issues with it and its impact on her life are revisited. There's her half-sister, toddler nephew, and a step-father that round off her very important support system.
“Just when I thought I was out…they pull me back in!” It's been three years since Ellie had been involved in a crime scene, as she and Dr. Cooper came upon the young activist’s body. And except for mentor and friend Sheriff Jayne Walsh, she has had little contact with former sheriff’s department colleagues. Her acerbic banter with hothead Detective Jason Sterling is entertaining; she sure can give as good as she gets. But it is the new detective, Nick Baxter, who provides a professional partnership, ease as a personal confidant, and a possible romantic entanglement, although she doesn't have a positive history with men. Rounding out the cast of characters Caroline gives us snooty board of trustees, entitled politicians, welcoming colleagues, jealous colleagues, timid to just plain annoying students and professors, and supportive and loving family. Caroline’s series rivals books from Tess Gerritsen’s Rizzoli and Isles and Kathy Reich’s Bones series. Her descriptions and dialogue kept me turning the pages, and even in the midst of the drama we get some witty banter. Well written all around!
Activism and vandalism often go hand in hand like mystery and murder. A young woman adamant to stop plans by Ashmore College’s Dr. Dudley Cooper to set up a “body farm” for forensic research decides to take her protest to ground zero. She and a companion paint signs of protest, using pig’s blood for dramatic effect, at Carnival Cove, an abandoned amusement park purchased by the professor. But, the ear-spitting crack, the excruciating pain, the real blood soaking her chest spelled murder. Wow, what a prologue! From here Caroline Fardig pens a nail-biting engaging thriller with multiple dead bodies, campus chaos, ravenous reporters, and the resurfacing of personal demons with which our heroine must contend.
Caroline Fardig’s book one of her Elle Matthews series kept me on the edge of my seat with twists and turns, volatile family dynamics, secrets, innuendos, and weaving throughout fascinating information on CSI techniques, evidence gathering, and lab testing. But it's Caroline’s characters in which I have invested my interest. Written in first-person, the heroine Ellie Matthews, is admirable for her forensic expertise, critical perspective, witty humor, and loyalty to family and friends. A well-respected criminologist, she turned in her CSI credentials for a position in the forensic anthropology department at a posh private college; a grisly criminal investigation had become deeply personal, and issues with it and its impact on her life are revisited. There's her half-sister, toddler nephew, and a step-father that round off her very important support system.
“Just when I thought I was out…they pull me back in!” It's been three years since Ellie had been involved in a crime scene, as she and Dr. Cooper came upon the young activist’s body. And except for mentor and friend Sheriff Jayne Walsh, she has had little contact with former sheriff’s department colleagues. Her acerbic banter with hothead Detective Jason Sterling is entertaining; she sure can give as good as she gets. But it is the new detective, Nick Baxter, who provides a professional partnership, ease as a personal confidant, and a possible romantic entanglement, although she doesn't have a positive history with men. Rounding out the cast of characters Caroline gives us snooty board of trustees, entitled politicians, welcoming colleagues, jealous colleagues, timid to just plain annoying students and professors, and supportive and loving family. Caroline’s series rivals books from Tess Gerritsen’s Rizzoli and Isles and Kathy Reich’s Bones series. Her descriptions and dialogue kept me turning the pages, and even in the midst of the drama we get some witty banter. Well written all around!
February 8, 2019
I absolutely loved this book! Ellie is a strong, highly likable main character with a lot of wit and intelligence. The plot twists were great and the ending a complete surprise. I was also very impressed by the extensive research the author must have done to write this book! The subject matter was also very unique and original. Well done, Caroline! I can't wait to read Book 2!!
February 13, 2018
Bitter Past
An Ellie Matthews Novel, Book #1
Caroline Fardig
5 Stars
Synopsis:
From USA Today bestselling author Caroline Fardig comes a gripping new forensic mystery series.
Three years ago, criminalist Ellie Matthews was blindsided when a grisly homicide case suddenly became personal. She abandoned the danger and stress of crime scene investigation for a professorship at a posh private college and never looked back.
Now, Ellie’s pleasant world is shattered when she finds the dead body of a female student. The campus is in chaos, reporters are circling like vultures, and Ellie is trying her best to distance herself from the situation. Not an easy task when her closest colleague becomes the prime suspect.
After the college community is rocked by another suspicious death, Ellie’s mentor, Sheriff Jayne Walsh, convinces her to consult on the case. Partnered with quick-witted Detective Nick Baxter, Ellie reluctantly bottles up her personal demons and dives back into the world she left behind, racing to make sense of the evidence before the killer strikes again. (Goodreads)
Review:
The characters are well developed and well rounded. Ellie is a smart hardworking woman who has not had a good past. She has a history of being a criminologist but after an especially gruesome crime scene she left and is now teaching that very same subject. When she discovers a dead body, she finds herself once again thrown in to the world of crime and death. I like that Ellie was three dimensional and she was not perfect. That made her seem more realistic to me. Detective Nick Baxter is good at his job but he needs Ellie’s expertise if he is going to solve this crime. I really enjoyed getting to know Ellie and Nick and am looking forward to spending time with them in future books.
The writing style flows smoothly and the book is a quick easy read. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and through much of the book I felt like I was right there watching all the action taking place. She seems to have a real knowledge of forensics, either from real life experience or great research and that aspect of the story was very believable. I felt like I learned some things about this subject and I really liked that.
The mystery was well plotted and moved along at just the right pace. There were enough suspects to consider and enough clues to sift through and with red herrings thrown in, the mystery was not an easy one to solve.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well plotted mystery. I have read other books written by this author (The Java Jive mysteries) and I really enjoyed them. Now I have more hard core mysteries to read by this author and I am looking forward to it.
An Ellie Matthews Novel, Book #1
Caroline Fardig
5 Stars
Synopsis:
From USA Today bestselling author Caroline Fardig comes a gripping new forensic mystery series.
Three years ago, criminalist Ellie Matthews was blindsided when a grisly homicide case suddenly became personal. She abandoned the danger and stress of crime scene investigation for a professorship at a posh private college and never looked back.
Now, Ellie’s pleasant world is shattered when she finds the dead body of a female student. The campus is in chaos, reporters are circling like vultures, and Ellie is trying her best to distance herself from the situation. Not an easy task when her closest colleague becomes the prime suspect.
After the college community is rocked by another suspicious death, Ellie’s mentor, Sheriff Jayne Walsh, convinces her to consult on the case. Partnered with quick-witted Detective Nick Baxter, Ellie reluctantly bottles up her personal demons and dives back into the world she left behind, racing to make sense of the evidence before the killer strikes again. (Goodreads)
Review:
The characters are well developed and well rounded. Ellie is a smart hardworking woman who has not had a good past. She has a history of being a criminologist but after an especially gruesome crime scene she left and is now teaching that very same subject. When she discovers a dead body, she finds herself once again thrown in to the world of crime and death. I like that Ellie was three dimensional and she was not perfect. That made her seem more realistic to me. Detective Nick Baxter is good at his job but he needs Ellie’s expertise if he is going to solve this crime. I really enjoyed getting to know Ellie and Nick and am looking forward to spending time with them in future books.
The writing style flows smoothly and the book is a quick easy read. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and through much of the book I felt like I was right there watching all the action taking place. She seems to have a real knowledge of forensics, either from real life experience or great research and that aspect of the story was very believable. I felt like I learned some things about this subject and I really liked that.
The mystery was well plotted and moved along at just the right pace. There were enough suspects to consider and enough clues to sift through and with red herrings thrown in, the mystery was not an easy one to solve.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well plotted mystery. I have read other books written by this author (The Java Jive mysteries) and I really enjoyed them. Now I have more hard core mysteries to read by this author and I am looking forward to it.
February 4, 2018
I found a new author, someone I'd never read before, and she's definitely one I want to continue reading. Bitter Past was also set in Indiana, another positive as its my home state and you don't find too many of those around.
Ellie Matthews used to be a criminalist until one particularly nasty case caused her to walk away. Now she is teaching the subject at Ashmore College and living nearby. When she finds the dead body of a female student, as a favor to the local Sheriff, she agrees to consult on the case. She ends up working closely with Detective Nick Baxter in spite of her efforts to keep her distance. Then a second suspicious death occurs and a colleague and friend of Ellie's is brought in for questioning. He quickly becomes the prime suspect. Ellie can't believe Cooper was capable of killing anyone even though he confesses to being romantically involved with the first victim. Ellie ends up putting aside her personal misgivings and throws herself into the case. She and Nick race against time to find the killer before he or she strikes again.
This was very well written. Its obvious the writer knows her stuff. The forensic detail was outstanding. I also learned quite a bit about police procedure. While the plot wasn't a nail biter, it held my attention. I didn't want to put it down. It wasn't just the story either. I really liked Ellie and Nick although they did butt heads a time or two. I was completely invested in these characters. I wanted to get to know more about them, learn what made them tick. The author did a good job with the personal touches that always add to the telling of a story as well. Ellie's sister, Rachel, and her little boy, Nate, live with Ellie. There is also a possible romantic interest, someone Ellie meets during the course of her investigation. As for Nick, he's all about the job, hard working, dedicated, and determined to succeed. It was interesting reading about places I've actually been, streets I've driven down, suburbs I've been through. I am so looking forward to the next book in the series. I know I won't be disappointed. This is one I definitely recommend.
Ellie Matthews used to be a criminalist until one particularly nasty case caused her to walk away. Now she is teaching the subject at Ashmore College and living nearby. When she finds the dead body of a female student, as a favor to the local Sheriff, she agrees to consult on the case. She ends up working closely with Detective Nick Baxter in spite of her efforts to keep her distance. Then a second suspicious death occurs and a colleague and friend of Ellie's is brought in for questioning. He quickly becomes the prime suspect. Ellie can't believe Cooper was capable of killing anyone even though he confesses to being romantically involved with the first victim. Ellie ends up putting aside her personal misgivings and throws herself into the case. She and Nick race against time to find the killer before he or she strikes again.
This was very well written. Its obvious the writer knows her stuff. The forensic detail was outstanding. I also learned quite a bit about police procedure. While the plot wasn't a nail biter, it held my attention. I didn't want to put it down. It wasn't just the story either. I really liked Ellie and Nick although they did butt heads a time or two. I was completely invested in these characters. I wanted to get to know more about them, learn what made them tick. The author did a good job with the personal touches that always add to the telling of a story as well. Ellie's sister, Rachel, and her little boy, Nate, live with Ellie. There is also a possible romantic interest, someone Ellie meets during the course of her investigation. As for Nick, he's all about the job, hard working, dedicated, and determined to succeed. It was interesting reading about places I've actually been, streets I've driven down, suburbs I've been through. I am so looking forward to the next book in the series. I know I won't be disappointed. This is one I definitely recommend.
February 18, 2018
“Bitter Past” by Caroline Fardig is the first book in the author’s newest series about a former criminalist who left her position with the Sherrif’s department under mysterious circumstances. Ellie Mathews has a quiet life as a professor an upscale private Collage. When her friend and fellow colleague becomes a person of interest and is taken into custody for the murder of a student at their collage, Ellie is persuaded to consult with the Sheriff’s department again. Back at her old stomping ground, Ellie must burry her both her old and new feelings to help Detective Baxter find the evidence to either convict her friend or find another suspect. She’ll need all her skills to coax a killer out of hiding.
This is the second book by Caroline Fardig that I’ve read. I started out trying her first book, “Death Before Decaf“, in the Java Jive cozy mystery series. I must admit, I prefer this more technical and darker series, but then cozies have never really been my jam. When looking into this new series, I read that Ms. Fardig actually went back to University and took courses in crimnology and forensics to write this series with an authentic voice. As a reader, I really appreciate her dedication to her craft. It shows in the details of the novel.
At first, I had a little trouble getting into the book. I found I didn’t connect to Ellie Matthews until about a quarter of the way through the mystery. Then the book took off for me. It was her “take no prisoners” attitude that drew me into liking the main character. I really don’t like wimpy characters in any form. As the reader, I have no time for simpering and befuddlement in my heroines. When Ellie almost punched a fellow law enforcement officer because of his extremely rude and belligerent sexual innuendo, I was hooked. That’s what I wish I would do if confronted with a disgusting comment from a colleague. I love stong female characters who are unashamed to stand up for their dignity.
Reading all about the intricacies of the forensic process was fascinating. I always revel in books that allow the reader to learn subconsciously just by enjoying a good book. I love it when that happens and this book was an excellent example of that kind of read. Ms. Fardig made all the dirty details of collection, processing and assessment of evidence so enjoyable. She highlighted the amount of thought that has to go into looking at a crime scene correctly. Fardig also made it crystal clear how easy it would be to miss a critical piece of forensic evidence through mishandling or incompetence. It was frightening to think how easily a case could be lost just because a criminalist decided to be lazy that day.
Caroline Fardig is a good, solid writer. Her prose in “Bitter Past” are sparkling and there is no wasted dialogue to distract the reader. Fardig also weaves a good story. I had thought I had the murderer all figured out but about 70% through the book, I realize I’d lost my main suspect! I love it when that happens. I had miscalculated and been duped by red herrings! This added to the book’s enjoyment for me. Now I had to rethink all my preconceived ideas and come up with another murderer before the bad guy was revealed. I always like it when I’m wrong in my first deducement.
I will be reading the next book from Caoline Fardig, “An Eye For An Eye”, which has just been published as the second in this Ellie Matthews series. I look forward to a new meaty mystery. I suspect the next book will be even better than the first. Now that I know the main character, learning more background and details will only deepen my enjoyment of each successive books.
This is the second book by Caroline Fardig that I’ve read. I started out trying her first book, “Death Before Decaf“, in the Java Jive cozy mystery series. I must admit, I prefer this more technical and darker series, but then cozies have never really been my jam. When looking into this new series, I read that Ms. Fardig actually went back to University and took courses in crimnology and forensics to write this series with an authentic voice. As a reader, I really appreciate her dedication to her craft. It shows in the details of the novel.
At first, I had a little trouble getting into the book. I found I didn’t connect to Ellie Matthews until about a quarter of the way through the mystery. Then the book took off for me. It was her “take no prisoners” attitude that drew me into liking the main character. I really don’t like wimpy characters in any form. As the reader, I have no time for simpering and befuddlement in my heroines. When Ellie almost punched a fellow law enforcement officer because of his extremely rude and belligerent sexual innuendo, I was hooked. That’s what I wish I would do if confronted with a disgusting comment from a colleague. I love stong female characters who are unashamed to stand up for their dignity.
Reading all about the intricacies of the forensic process was fascinating. I always revel in books that allow the reader to learn subconsciously just by enjoying a good book. I love it when that happens and this book was an excellent example of that kind of read. Ms. Fardig made all the dirty details of collection, processing and assessment of evidence so enjoyable. She highlighted the amount of thought that has to go into looking at a crime scene correctly. Fardig also made it crystal clear how easy it would be to miss a critical piece of forensic evidence through mishandling or incompetence. It was frightening to think how easily a case could be lost just because a criminalist decided to be lazy that day.
Caroline Fardig is a good, solid writer. Her prose in “Bitter Past” are sparkling and there is no wasted dialogue to distract the reader. Fardig also weaves a good story. I had thought I had the murderer all figured out but about 70% through the book, I realize I’d lost my main suspect! I love it when that happens. I had miscalculated and been duped by red herrings! This added to the book’s enjoyment for me. Now I had to rethink all my preconceived ideas and come up with another murderer before the bad guy was revealed. I always like it when I’m wrong in my first deducement.
I will be reading the next book from Caoline Fardig, “An Eye For An Eye”, which has just been published as the second in this Ellie Matthews series. I look forward to a new meaty mystery. I suspect the next book will be even better than the first. Now that I know the main character, learning more background and details will only deepen my enjoyment of each successive books.
March 12, 2018
Bitter Past
An Ellie Matthews Novel, Book #1
Caroline Fardig
5 Stars
Synopsis:
From USA Today bestselling author Caroline Fardig comes a gripping new forensic mystery series.
Three years ago, criminalist Ellie Matthews was blindsided when a grisly homicide case suddenly became personal. She abandoned the danger and stress of crime scene investigation for a professorship at a posh private college and never looked back.
Now, Ellie’s pleasant world is shattered when she finds the dead body of a female student. The campus is in chaos, reporters are circling like vultures, and Ellie is trying her best to distance herself from the situation. Not an easy task when her closest colleague becomes the prime suspect.
After the college community is rocked by another suspicious death, Ellie’s mentor, Sheriff Jayne Walsh, convinces her to consult on the case. Partnered with quick-witted Detective Nick Baxter, Ellie reluctantly bottles up her personal demons and dives back into the world she left behind, racing to make sense of the evidence before the killer strikes again. (Goodreads)
Review:
The characters are well developed and well rounded. Ellie is a smart hardworking woman who has not had a good past. She has a history of being a criminologist but after an especially gruesome crime scene she left and is now teaching that very same subject. When she discovers a dead body, she finds herself once again thrown in to the world of crime and death. I like that Ellie was three dimensional and she was not perfect. That made her seem more realistic to me. Detective Nick Baxter is good at his job but he needs Ellie’s expertise if he is going to solve this crime. I really enjoyed getting to know Ellie and Nick and am looking forward to spending time with them in future books.
The writing style flows smoothly and the book is a quick easy read. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and through much of the book I felt like I was right there watching all the action taking place. She seems to have a real knowledge of forensics, either from real life experience or great research and that aspect of the story was very believable. I felt like I learned some things about this subject and I really liked that.
The mystery was well plotted and moved along at just the right pace. There were enough suspects to consider and enough clues to sift through and with red herrings thrown in, the mystery was not an easy one to solve.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well plotted mystery. I have read other books written by this author (The Java Jive mysteries) and I really enjoyed them. Now I have more hard core mysteries to read by this author and I am looking forward to it.
An Ellie Matthews Novel, Book #1
Caroline Fardig
5 Stars
Synopsis:
From USA Today bestselling author Caroline Fardig comes a gripping new forensic mystery series.
Three years ago, criminalist Ellie Matthews was blindsided when a grisly homicide case suddenly became personal. She abandoned the danger and stress of crime scene investigation for a professorship at a posh private college and never looked back.
Now, Ellie’s pleasant world is shattered when she finds the dead body of a female student. The campus is in chaos, reporters are circling like vultures, and Ellie is trying her best to distance herself from the situation. Not an easy task when her closest colleague becomes the prime suspect.
After the college community is rocked by another suspicious death, Ellie’s mentor, Sheriff Jayne Walsh, convinces her to consult on the case. Partnered with quick-witted Detective Nick Baxter, Ellie reluctantly bottles up her personal demons and dives back into the world she left behind, racing to make sense of the evidence before the killer strikes again. (Goodreads)
Review:
The characters are well developed and well rounded. Ellie is a smart hardworking woman who has not had a good past. She has a history of being a criminologist but after an especially gruesome crime scene she left and is now teaching that very same subject. When she discovers a dead body, she finds herself once again thrown in to the world of crime and death. I like that Ellie was three dimensional and she was not perfect. That made her seem more realistic to me. Detective Nick Baxter is good at his job but he needs Ellie’s expertise if he is going to solve this crime. I really enjoyed getting to know Ellie and Nick and am looking forward to spending time with them in future books.
The writing style flows smoothly and the book is a quick easy read. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and through much of the book I felt like I was right there watching all the action taking place. She seems to have a real knowledge of forensics, either from real life experience or great research and that aspect of the story was very believable. I felt like I learned some things about this subject and I really liked that.
The mystery was well plotted and moved along at just the right pace. There were enough suspects to consider and enough clues to sift through and with red herrings thrown in, the mystery was not an easy one to solve.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well plotted mystery. I have read other books written by this author (The Java Jive mysteries) and I really enjoyed them. Now I have more hard core mysteries to read by this author and I am looking forward to it.
September 6, 2017
This book was supremely captivating right from the very start. The plot line was absolutely riveting, and there were just enough twists and turns to keep you guessing. Ellie was a character with so many layers and complexities whom you could not help but to feel for. It was easy to experience her happiness, fears, sorrows and triumphs with her, as if she were a long time, trusted friend. The story line moved at just the right pace and kept you engaged with loads of nail-biting suspense and pulse-pounding intrigue.
I love a nice, cozy mystery, but the darker suspense thrillers are more to my personal reading taste, and Fardig served up a delicious and uber-satisfying literary dish of anticipation, suspicion and subterfuge on a silver platter. I can hardly wait to see where this series goes next!
*I received a complimentary ARC of this story from NetGalley & Smith Publicity in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.
I love a nice, cozy mystery, but the darker suspense thrillers are more to my personal reading taste, and Fardig served up a delicious and uber-satisfying literary dish of anticipation, suspicion and subterfuge on a silver platter. I can hardly wait to see where this series goes next!
*I received a complimentary ARC of this story from NetGalley & Smith Publicity in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.
August 7, 2022
would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this brilliant book
move over scarpetta theres a new girl in town...
ellie matthews teaches at a nearby college....but before that her job was a csi for the police and though the case that finished her isnt revealed until later in the book, but her job keeps her active with the new procedures that are needed at crime scenes
this book grows on you...and our first glimpse of ellie is when she is mistaken for a very patron of the planned forensic field where bodies are left outdoors so that data can be gained from this...and one of the protesters who doesnt recogise ellie throw a bucket of pigs blood all over her...how ellie deals with this incident shows you what to expect from this book
its a great read and i cant wait for the next book in this brilliant series
move over scarpetta theres a new girl in town...
ellie matthews teaches at a nearby college....but before that her job was a csi for the police and though the case that finished her isnt revealed until later in the book, but her job keeps her active with the new procedures that are needed at crime scenes
this book grows on you...and our first glimpse of ellie is when she is mistaken for a very patron of the planned forensic field where bodies are left outdoors so that data can be gained from this...and one of the protesters who doesnt recogise ellie throw a bucket of pigs blood all over her...how ellie deals with this incident shows you what to expect from this book
its a great read and i cant wait for the next book in this brilliant series
February 20, 2018
I really loved reading this book. Mystery, suspense and crime story and the first book in this series. Lots of twist and turns Caroline Fardig did it again. If you haven’t ready another of her other books please do they won’t disappoint.
In this series we are introduced to Ellie Matthews a former criminologist who left for personal reasons and became a professor in forensic anthropology department. When a murder strikes the university she is working at she finds herself in the middle of what she wanted to leave behind. She is then asked to consult on a crime scene and in order to help solve the murder.
If you enjoy Mysteries I highly recommend this book. It felt like CSI but so enjoyable to read I didn’t want it to end. Looking forward to the next book.
In this series we are introduced to Ellie Matthews a former criminologist who left for personal reasons and became a professor in forensic anthropology department. When a murder strikes the university she is working at she finds herself in the middle of what she wanted to leave behind. She is then asked to consult on a crime scene and in order to help solve the murder.
If you enjoy Mysteries I highly recommend this book. It felt like CSI but so enjoyable to read I didn’t want it to end. Looking forward to the next book.
January 8, 2018
An excellent blend of a more traditional police procedure (more specifically, evidence processing) with a character driven mystery. I immediately ordered the next and am looking forward to reading more about Ellie
September 8, 2017
Ellie Matthews is a college forensic criminology professor, former criminalist for the police department, and somewhat of a mystery person. She is thrust into a college related murder when her associate takes her to the site of his new "body farm" to discuss improvements. While there, Ellie smells death and discovers a student who has been murdered at the site. Before long her colleague is implicated in the murder. All too soon a second student is found dead in a dorm room of a supposed suicide, and Ellie is called in by the sheriff to assist on this case. What happens next is a fast paced criminal investigation and stunning conclusion to both murder cases.
The author has created believable characters who handle their jobs with respect and treat the victims with dignity. It is obvious that meticulous research has been done as the author is able to describe the various procedures and even options available as Ellie and others assess the crime scene and hunt for clues. This isn't done like on TV, but rather as an actual criminalist would act at a crime scene and in the lab. The research carried over to the portions of classes we read about Ellie teaching as well. She was a strong individual when related to her jobs. Her personal life was a little more lax with excessive drinking and questionable judgement about men. She has her sister and young nephew living with her, and it is obvious that these remaining family members mean a lot to her.
The author did a great job of describing the various settings throughout the book, whether it was a convenience store robbery scene, the body farm, or a crime scene. This exemplary focus on surroundings allowed the reader to feel like they were actually in the background watching the story unfold-both the grizzly and happy parts of the book. Combine that with the character descriptions and vivid recounting of lab work, and you have a dynamic book that feels less like fiction and more like true crime. Realistic in every way, this was a book that demanded to be finished without delay and won't disappoint any reader!
The author has created believable characters who handle their jobs with respect and treat the victims with dignity. It is obvious that meticulous research has been done as the author is able to describe the various procedures and even options available as Ellie and others assess the crime scene and hunt for clues. This isn't done like on TV, but rather as an actual criminalist would act at a crime scene and in the lab. The research carried over to the portions of classes we read about Ellie teaching as well. She was a strong individual when related to her jobs. Her personal life was a little more lax with excessive drinking and questionable judgement about men. She has her sister and young nephew living with her, and it is obvious that these remaining family members mean a lot to her.
The author did a great job of describing the various settings throughout the book, whether it was a convenience store robbery scene, the body farm, or a crime scene. This exemplary focus on surroundings allowed the reader to feel like they were actually in the background watching the story unfold-both the grizzly and happy parts of the book. Combine that with the character descriptions and vivid recounting of lab work, and you have a dynamic book that feels less like fiction and more like true crime. Realistic in every way, this was a book that demanded to be finished without delay and won't disappoint any reader!
August 9, 2022
Bitter Past by Caroline Fardig
Ellie Matthews #1
Ellie Matthews quit her job with the police force as a criminalist when one case too many that hit close to home and had her needing a less stressful job. Working as an instructor at a university provided a calmer life that while allowing her to keep her forensic skills current. Her peace was definitely shattered when she was asked to consult by the police on an active murder case and I have a feeling that one case might lead to more cases in the future.
What I liked:
* The case to be solved: murder of a student and then a few more murders that followed
* The police procedural aspect of the story, investigation techniques, and forensic steps taken to solve the murders
* The setting on and near a campus
* That there was more than one potential killer suspected
* The twists and turns, red herrings, and surprises
* Getting to know the characters that will probably show up again in the series as it progresses
* That Ellie was flawed…but not too flawed. I didn’t find her warm, likable, easy to connect with, even tempered, or easy to understand but I am interested in what happens next and would like to know more of her backstory
* Detective Baxter: a good work partner for Ellie in solving crimes
* Rachel: Ellie’s younger sister, single parent to Nick, college student – expect to see more of her in the future
* The potential for the series
* Finding out what triggered Ellie to leave her job with the Police department
* Thinking about what it would be like to have been in Ellie’s shoes…don’t think I would choose to be her
* Wondering about what her next case will be
What I didn’t like:
* Who and what I was meant not to like
* Feeling that Ellie seems less than well grounded…perhaps that will change as the series progresses.
Did I enjoy this book? Yes
Would I read more in this series? I think so
Thank you to Severn River Publishing and Bookfunnel for the ARC – this is my honest review.
3-4 Stars
Ellie Matthews #1
Ellie Matthews quit her job with the police force as a criminalist when one case too many that hit close to home and had her needing a less stressful job. Working as an instructor at a university provided a calmer life that while allowing her to keep her forensic skills current. Her peace was definitely shattered when she was asked to consult by the police on an active murder case and I have a feeling that one case might lead to more cases in the future.
What I liked:
* The case to be solved: murder of a student and then a few more murders that followed
* The police procedural aspect of the story, investigation techniques, and forensic steps taken to solve the murders
* The setting on and near a campus
* That there was more than one potential killer suspected
* The twists and turns, red herrings, and surprises
* Getting to know the characters that will probably show up again in the series as it progresses
* That Ellie was flawed…but not too flawed. I didn’t find her warm, likable, easy to connect with, even tempered, or easy to understand but I am interested in what happens next and would like to know more of her backstory
* Detective Baxter: a good work partner for Ellie in solving crimes
* Rachel: Ellie’s younger sister, single parent to Nick, college student – expect to see more of her in the future
* The potential for the series
* Finding out what triggered Ellie to leave her job with the Police department
* Thinking about what it would be like to have been in Ellie’s shoes…don’t think I would choose to be her
* Wondering about what her next case will be
What I didn’t like:
* Who and what I was meant not to like
* Feeling that Ellie seems less than well grounded…perhaps that will change as the series progresses.
Did I enjoy this book? Yes
Would I read more in this series? I think so
Thank you to Severn River Publishing and Bookfunnel for the ARC – this is my honest review.
3-4 Stars
August 16, 2017
4 and 1 / 2 stars
Professor Ellie Matthews, a former forensic scientist, and her associate, Dr. Dudley Cooper find a dead body in the former park that is now to be Cooper’s outdoor forensic anthropology site – or body farm. Cooper reacts surprisingly distressed at the murder of one of the students, a Vasti Marais who was a student at Ashmore College, the same college where the two teach.
At the scene, she is interviewed by Detective Nick Baxter. He seems kind, intelligent and listens seriously to Ellie.
After a second murder is committed, Ellie receives a visit from Detective Baxter and Sheriff Jayne Walsh. They beg her to assist on the cases due to an inept forensics department at the sheriff’s office. Baxter and Ellie work the new crime scene. Juggling her home, school and helping Baxter with the case, Ellie is running out of gas. She barely has time to dwell on her new love interest, Rob.
The police bring someone in for questioning. Ellie simply can’t believe that they have an interest in the wrong person. With evidence constantly being discovered and processed, the case comes together slowly. Witnesses are disappearing, and fingers are pointing in several directions.
This is a very well written and plotted novel. I truly enjoyed it. The suspense starts out immediately and continues until the action-packed denouement. There was enough information given about the main characters’ backgrounds to make them interesting and real, but not so much that it intruded on the story. The one “romantic” scene was done with taste and is appropriate for all audiences. This is my first Caroline Fardig novel, but it won’t be my last. I immediately went to Amazon to check out her other books.
I want to thank NetGalley and Caroline Fardig for forwarding to me a copy of this very nicely written book to read and enjoy.
Professor Ellie Matthews, a former forensic scientist, and her associate, Dr. Dudley Cooper find a dead body in the former park that is now to be Cooper’s outdoor forensic anthropology site – or body farm. Cooper reacts surprisingly distressed at the murder of one of the students, a Vasti Marais who was a student at Ashmore College, the same college where the two teach.
At the scene, she is interviewed by Detective Nick Baxter. He seems kind, intelligent and listens seriously to Ellie.
After a second murder is committed, Ellie receives a visit from Detective Baxter and Sheriff Jayne Walsh. They beg her to assist on the cases due to an inept forensics department at the sheriff’s office. Baxter and Ellie work the new crime scene. Juggling her home, school and helping Baxter with the case, Ellie is running out of gas. She barely has time to dwell on her new love interest, Rob.
The police bring someone in for questioning. Ellie simply can’t believe that they have an interest in the wrong person. With evidence constantly being discovered and processed, the case comes together slowly. Witnesses are disappearing, and fingers are pointing in several directions.
This is a very well written and plotted novel. I truly enjoyed it. The suspense starts out immediately and continues until the action-packed denouement. There was enough information given about the main characters’ backgrounds to make them interesting and real, but not so much that it intruded on the story. The one “romantic” scene was done with taste and is appropriate for all audiences. This is my first Caroline Fardig novel, but it won’t be my last. I immediately went to Amazon to check out her other books.
I want to thank NetGalley and Caroline Fardig for forwarding to me a copy of this very nicely written book to read and enjoy.
September 3, 2017
I received an advanced reader's copy of this book through Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
As someone who has read every one of Ms. Fardig's other works, I was very excited for this new series. "Bitter Past" is her darkest work yet, but is still a quick and casual read.
The main character is a former criminologist who left her job under unknown circumstances and became a teacher in criminology at a local college. Circumstances involving one of her closest friends, the college, and a number of politicians and law enforcement officials take her back to the criminology world to assist law enforcement with two possibly related cases.
I enjoyed the book very much and am excited for this new series! I liked the main character, Ellie, for the most part, but found myself sometimes getting confused between "Ellie" and "Eli" as I was reading, and had to stop and force my brain to compartmentalize who was who.
I did feel that some of the characters were left hanging a bit and just disappeared without much of a wrap up. Other characters seemed to pop up out of nowhere and drop a little crumb of evidence, then disappear again. It was definitely a little hard to keep track of everyone at times. I also felt at times that the technical descriptions were a bit too scientific and that the story lost its more casual feel when delving into the evidence specifics. I actually figured out VERY early on - in chapter two! - a large part of the "whodunit," though the "why" took a bit longer. There are still lots of twists and turns that will keep you guessing!
I will definitely read the next book in the series, as there is a bit of a cliffhanger and I'm anxious to see where it goes, as well as where Ellie's character arc takes her. I enjoyed Ms. Fardig's first attempt in this series, and look forward to seeing things a little more polished in the next book(s).
As someone who has read every one of Ms. Fardig's other works, I was very excited for this new series. "Bitter Past" is her darkest work yet, but is still a quick and casual read.
The main character is a former criminologist who left her job under unknown circumstances and became a teacher in criminology at a local college. Circumstances involving one of her closest friends, the college, and a number of politicians and law enforcement officials take her back to the criminology world to assist law enforcement with two possibly related cases.
I enjoyed the book very much and am excited for this new series! I liked the main character, Ellie, for the most part, but found myself sometimes getting confused between "Ellie" and "Eli" as I was reading, and had to stop and force my brain to compartmentalize who was who.
I did feel that some of the characters were left hanging a bit and just disappeared without much of a wrap up. Other characters seemed to pop up out of nowhere and drop a little crumb of evidence, then disappear again. It was definitely a little hard to keep track of everyone at times. I also felt at times that the technical descriptions were a bit too scientific and that the story lost its more casual feel when delving into the evidence specifics. I actually figured out VERY early on - in chapter two! - a large part of the "whodunit," though the "why" took a bit longer. There are still lots of twists and turns that will keep you guessing!
I will definitely read the next book in the series, as there is a bit of a cliffhanger and I'm anxious to see where it goes, as well as where Ellie's character arc takes her. I enjoyed Ms. Fardig's first attempt in this series, and look forward to seeing things a little more polished in the next book(s).
August 27, 2017
I received this book from netgalley in exchange for a review.
I really enjoyed this book! I have read all of Caroline Fardig's books so when I saw that she had a new series I was very eager to read it. It is very different from her other books although it does have some similarities. Bitter Past is about solving a murder but gives you the police perspective on it with the main character, Ellie, being a criminalist consulting on the case. I enjoyed this perspective and also felt like I learned a lot about what a criminalist goes through to investigate a case/crime scene.
This book also explores Ellie's past and why she left the police a few years ago to teach. The reason she left makes you want to read another Ellie Matthew's book as you know the topic will be coming up again at some point. The book kept me guessing, although I suspected part of what happened, it did not all fully come together until the very end.
The copy of the book that I received definitely had some errors which I'm sure will be corrected when the book is officially published. Beyond that my only other criticism is that the book seemed to end somewhat abruptly. The murder is solved completely but Ellie has an exchange with someone on the police force and it didn't feel fully like a cliff hanger but also not fully like an ending. Of course there is going to be another book so I'm sure we will find out more then.
Overall I loved this book and can't wait to read more of this series!
I really enjoyed this book! I have read all of Caroline Fardig's books so when I saw that she had a new series I was very eager to read it. It is very different from her other books although it does have some similarities. Bitter Past is about solving a murder but gives you the police perspective on it with the main character, Ellie, being a criminalist consulting on the case. I enjoyed this perspective and also felt like I learned a lot about what a criminalist goes through to investigate a case/crime scene.
This book also explores Ellie's past and why she left the police a few years ago to teach. The reason she left makes you want to read another Ellie Matthew's book as you know the topic will be coming up again at some point. The book kept me guessing, although I suspected part of what happened, it did not all fully come together until the very end.
The copy of the book that I received definitely had some errors which I'm sure will be corrected when the book is officially published. Beyond that my only other criticism is that the book seemed to end somewhat abruptly. The murder is solved completely but Ellie has an exchange with someone on the police force and it didn't feel fully like a cliff hanger but also not fully like an ending. Of course there is going to be another book so I'm sure we will find out more then.
Overall I loved this book and can't wait to read more of this series!
August 18, 2017
From the author of the Java Jive and Lizzie Hart Cozy Mysteries, comes the new Ellie Matthews mystery series.
Ellie Matthews gave up her career as a criminalist when a gruesome case became personal. When Ellie finds a student murdered, the campus is in chaos, students are scared, gossip is flowing and news reporters are circling for a story. After a close friend and colleague becomes the prime suspect, Ellie has to distance herself from the situation. Then another suspicious death occurs, and Ellie's mentor, the sheriff in charge of the case, asks for her forensic expertise in helping with the second death. Back in a world she thought she left behind, Ellie teams up with Detective Nick Baxter, to find a killer before anyone else dies.
I loved this book. It was well written, has great characters, the story well plotted. Just when you think you know who did it, you find out you're wrong. I stayed up late last night to read this and when I did find out who was responsible, I was very surprised. If you love mysteries, you will love this one. I do want to say this isn't a cozy but a regular mystery.
NOTE: I was given an advanced copy of the book from the publishers through Netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review. I would like to thank them for that because I really enjoyed it!
Ellie Matthews gave up her career as a criminalist when a gruesome case became personal. When Ellie finds a student murdered, the campus is in chaos, students are scared, gossip is flowing and news reporters are circling for a story. After a close friend and colleague becomes the prime suspect, Ellie has to distance herself from the situation. Then another suspicious death occurs, and Ellie's mentor, the sheriff in charge of the case, asks for her forensic expertise in helping with the second death. Back in a world she thought she left behind, Ellie teams up with Detective Nick Baxter, to find a killer before anyone else dies.
I loved this book. It was well written, has great characters, the story well plotted. Just when you think you know who did it, you find out you're wrong. I stayed up late last night to read this and when I did find out who was responsible, I was very surprised. If you love mysteries, you will love this one. I do want to say this isn't a cozy but a regular mystery.
NOTE: I was given an advanced copy of the book from the publishers through Netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review. I would like to thank them for that because I really enjoyed it!
September 5, 2017
Bitter Past is the first in Caroline Fardig's new Ellie Matthews novel series. Ellie Matthews left her position as a criminalist three years prior to this story, trading the stress and danger of police work for the safety of a professorship at a prestigious private college. With the appointment as administrative assistant for the proposed college "body farm", things are looking good for Ellie.
That is until she discovers the body of a student protestor on the "body farm" grounds. This draws her back into police work as she is approached by friend and mentor Sheriff Jayne Walsh to work as a consultant. As the investigation unfolds a second student is found dead under suspicious circumstances, thus bringing Ellie full force back into police work.
Ellie has stated she has horrible taste in men. Her friend and colleague, her new love interest, and the detective she is partnered with have all become close to Ellie. Problem is, one is a murderer, one is a suspect, and one she has gotten far too close to. One she tricks, one saves her life, and one tries to unlock her past. Thus creating a story of intrigue that is hard to put down.
This is an engaging new series with many twists and turns, not leading you to the truth until the very end. Although a darker series than Ms. Fardig's Java Jive Mysteries, this story is equally well done. I do recommend this book!
That is until she discovers the body of a student protestor on the "body farm" grounds. This draws her back into police work as she is approached by friend and mentor Sheriff Jayne Walsh to work as a consultant. As the investigation unfolds a second student is found dead under suspicious circumstances, thus bringing Ellie full force back into police work.
Ellie has stated she has horrible taste in men. Her friend and colleague, her new love interest, and the detective she is partnered with have all become close to Ellie. Problem is, one is a murderer, one is a suspect, and one she has gotten far too close to. One she tricks, one saves her life, and one tries to unlock her past. Thus creating a story of intrigue that is hard to put down.
This is an engaging new series with many twists and turns, not leading you to the truth until the very end. Although a darker series than Ms. Fardig's Java Jive Mysteries, this story is equally well done. I do recommend this book!
May 30, 2024
Ellie Matthews was happily bouncing along in life, loving her career as a forensic scientist, until the day she learned the dismembered Jane Doe she’d been examining was her estranged mother. She immediately gave up being a hands-on crime scene investigator to teach others how to do it. That was easier and hurt less. Then a murdered student is found at the “body farm” about to be operated under the school’s auspices campus and the head of the body farm, a professor friend of Ellie’s, is the main suspect. She can’t let an injustice go unaddressed, so she uses her skills to uncover the real killer.
I enjoyed this story. It had a good balance of academic life, forensic science, police work, and regular life. The author made the police officers human – one detective upchucks at the sight of blood throughout the book; and gave Ellie great dimension – she’s single-minded and dedicated when it comes to crime, but her personal life is in shambles. She drinks too much, feels like a failure, and occasionally makes poor choices when it comes to men. She’s also a good friend with a strong sense of fair play.
The story held my interest all the way through, and the ending was a complete surprise. I liked this book enough to immediately buy the second in the series. It was as good, and now Ms. Fardig has a new fan. I will read more in this series.
I enjoyed this story. It had a good balance of academic life, forensic science, police work, and regular life. The author made the police officers human – one detective upchucks at the sight of blood throughout the book; and gave Ellie great dimension – she’s single-minded and dedicated when it comes to crime, but her personal life is in shambles. She drinks too much, feels like a failure, and occasionally makes poor choices when it comes to men. She’s also a good friend with a strong sense of fair play.
The story held my interest all the way through, and the ending was a complete surprise. I liked this book enough to immediately buy the second in the series. It was as good, and now Ms. Fardig has a new fan. I will read more in this series.
August 20, 2017
I was honestly surprised to see this book. From the blurb, I could see that this is quote a dark book, not something that Caroline Fardig usually published. However, as she’s one of my favourite author, and a darker suspense is also in my alley, I gave this book a try.
One, it was much darker than Ms. Fardig usually wrote. However, it still had the same characteristics you’ve come to expect in her books. Witty inner-thoughts, dash of (dark) humor, strong heroine, and unfinished love story. The main mystery story was finished, but the background sort of romance story was to be continued to the next book(s), as with her other books.
I gotta say that I liked this book better. No, it’s not really for lazy time, but it’s more captivating for me. I found myself attached to the book up until the end. The suspense started right off the bat, and kept the pace. Ellie was so real, I felt her struggle, her happiness, and her distress. The conclusion of the story was so shocking and heart-wrenching (for me), made me want the next book now. Well, I have to be patient though, right?
I was provided a complementary copy by the author / publisher through NetGalley, but this in no way influenced my thoughts or opinions.
One, it was much darker than Ms. Fardig usually wrote. However, it still had the same characteristics you’ve come to expect in her books. Witty inner-thoughts, dash of (dark) humor, strong heroine, and unfinished love story. The main mystery story was finished, but the background sort of romance story was to be continued to the next book(s), as with her other books.
I gotta say that I liked this book better. No, it’s not really for lazy time, but it’s more captivating for me. I found myself attached to the book up until the end. The suspense started right off the bat, and kept the pace. Ellie was so real, I felt her struggle, her happiness, and her distress. The conclusion of the story was so shocking and heart-wrenching (for me), made me want the next book now. Well, I have to be patient though, right?
I was provided a complementary copy by the author / publisher through NetGalley, but this in no way influenced my thoughts or opinions.
September 5, 2017
I love reading mystery books. I read a lot of cozy mystery books, and I also read other mysteries. Though Caroline Fardig does write cozy mystery books, this one isn’t a cozy. It’s got humor and great characters, but it’s also got elements that cozy mystery books don’t.
Ellie Matthews is a great character who gets caught up in a murder mystery when her former boss asks for her help in solving a murder…the second murder of a student at the college where Ellie is a professor. Even though Ellie doesn’t want to be back working for the police, she is very close to the sheriff, so she agrees to help. Being back “on the force,” even temporarily, creates chaos in her life. But she is good at what she does and she loves that aspect of it. I really thought the author showed how conflicted Ellie was very well. I love the relationships she has with some members of the police force…even the strained ones. They feel very real. If Ellie got along with everyone she worked with, the book would feel fake and things wouldn’t work.
The author knows how to tell a great story, and she keeps you guessing for most of the book. I liked how the story flowed. It didn’t feel rushed, but it was a book I could read quickly. The characters are well-developed and realistic. The book ends with the mystery solved, but it leaves another mystery open….the one that caused Ellie to leave the force in the first place. I think mystery lovers will enjoy this book. If you have read the author’s other books, don’t expect this to be sweet and nice. It’s definitely not in the cozy genre, but Bitter Past is a great mystery.
I received a copy of Bitter Past free, but I was not required to do a review.
Ellie Matthews is a great character who gets caught up in a murder mystery when her former boss asks for her help in solving a murder…the second murder of a student at the college where Ellie is a professor. Even though Ellie doesn’t want to be back working for the police, she is very close to the sheriff, so she agrees to help. Being back “on the force,” even temporarily, creates chaos in her life. But she is good at what she does and she loves that aspect of it. I really thought the author showed how conflicted Ellie was very well. I love the relationships she has with some members of the police force…even the strained ones. They feel very real. If Ellie got along with everyone she worked with, the book would feel fake and things wouldn’t work.
The author knows how to tell a great story, and she keeps you guessing for most of the book. I liked how the story flowed. It didn’t feel rushed, but it was a book I could read quickly. The characters are well-developed and realistic. The book ends with the mystery solved, but it leaves another mystery open….the one that caused Ellie to leave the force in the first place. I think mystery lovers will enjoy this book. If you have read the author’s other books, don’t expect this to be sweet and nice. It’s definitely not in the cozy genre, but Bitter Past is a great mystery.
I received a copy of Bitter Past free, but I was not required to do a review.
May 19, 2018
Police Procedural With Great Forensics
I enjoyed reading this well-written book with a retired police criminalist MC, who now works as a professor teaching introductory forensics and criminalistics courses at Ashmore College. Ellie Matthews is a strong, complex character with some rough edges and a dark past to make her interesting. Persuaded to act as a police consultant on a difficult murder case, she soon finds herself at a complex murder scene in a college student’s room, ankle deep in evidence.
The plot is well-executed with expected and unexpected twists. Pacing is good overall, and setting descriptions are very good, especially in reference to forensics and evidence collection. There are some elements of romance, but it’s underplayed.
I was fascinated by the laboratory and forensic science aspects (in addition to the police procedural), and I absorbed a lot of forensics-related information whilst reading this book. I loved how Professor Matthews told her students, very bluntly, how real-world forensics is unlike that seem on TV.
I enjoyed reading this well-written book with a retired police criminalist MC, who now works as a professor teaching introductory forensics and criminalistics courses at Ashmore College. Ellie Matthews is a strong, complex character with some rough edges and a dark past to make her interesting. Persuaded to act as a police consultant on a difficult murder case, she soon finds herself at a complex murder scene in a college student’s room, ankle deep in evidence.
The plot is well-executed with expected and unexpected twists. Pacing is good overall, and setting descriptions are very good, especially in reference to forensics and evidence collection. There are some elements of romance, but it’s underplayed.
I was fascinated by the laboratory and forensic science aspects (in addition to the police procedural), and I absorbed a lot of forensics-related information whilst reading this book. I loved how Professor Matthews told her students, very bluntly, how real-world forensics is unlike that seem on TV.
April 30, 2022
Good in parts.
A former forensic criminologist is drawn back into police work when 2 students at the University where she now teaches, are murdered.
In this first in a series we are introduced to Ellie Matthews, a criminologist with a troubled youth. Traumatised by a particularly gruesome case, she has left the service of the local police for a part-time teaching job at her local University. But with new murder cases stretching resources, she answers the call of her former boss to help out one last time.
The good parts of the book were the detail on the forensic science, the complex character of Ellie, the dynamic between Ellie and detective Baxter, and her growing professional relationship with fellow criminologist Amanda. These kept me reading through the not so good parts - the stereotypical drawing of the secondary characters, the shallow plot and the rushed ending.
I may try the next in the series to see if these elements remain or if the potential in Bitter Past is fully realised.
A former forensic criminologist is drawn back into police work when 2 students at the University where she now teaches, are murdered.
In this first in a series we are introduced to Ellie Matthews, a criminologist with a troubled youth. Traumatised by a particularly gruesome case, she has left the service of the local police for a part-time teaching job at her local University. But with new murder cases stretching resources, she answers the call of her former boss to help out one last time.
The good parts of the book were the detail on the forensic science, the complex character of Ellie, the dynamic between Ellie and detective Baxter, and her growing professional relationship with fellow criminologist Amanda. These kept me reading through the not so good parts - the stereotypical drawing of the secondary characters, the shallow plot and the rushed ending.
I may try the next in the series to see if these elements remain or if the potential in Bitter Past is fully realised.
August 5, 2022
Bitter Past is book two in the Ellie Matthews series. Ellie used to be a criminalist until a case caused her to walk away. Now she is teaching criminology at Ashmore College. As a favor to the local Sheriff, she agrees to consult on the case after Ellie discovers a body while with a co-worker. Another suspicious death occurs and it seems as if they might be connected. A colleague is brought in for questioning. He quickly becomes the prime suspect.
This was very well written. and very detailed. But I have mixed feelings about the story. While it was totally engrossing, I did not like the ending. To me it was abrupt and left me unsatisfied. I have not read the first book and maybe I should have. I might have been more prepared for what was to come. It does seem as if it there might be a book to come. Certainly the ending would leave you to believe the story is not over. Over all, I did like this story and I am curious about Ellie and what happens next I, was hoping for a different less blunt ending.
I received an ARC from NetGalley for an unbiased review.
This was very well written. and very detailed. But I have mixed feelings about the story. While it was totally engrossing, I did not like the ending. To me it was abrupt and left me unsatisfied. I have not read the first book and maybe I should have. I might have been more prepared for what was to come. It does seem as if it there might be a book to come. Certainly the ending would leave you to believe the story is not over. Over all, I did like this story and I am curious about Ellie and what happens next I, was hoping for a different less blunt ending.
I received an ARC from NetGalley for an unbiased review.
August 30, 2017
I really enjoy Caroline Fardig's Java Jive mystery, so when I got an email about her new novel, Bitter Past, I had to request it.
Ellie was in the police force as a criminalist until one case became too many and she became a professor at the local collage. One day, she and another professor stumble upon a student's body at a facility that the university had just purchased. The police department hires Ellie as a consultant.
I liked how Ellie was a criminalist, since I don't read too many books that involve forensic sciences. However it seemed that Ellie did a few forensic tests, but mostly just was a ride along with the police detective.
Ellie is like Juliet in Fardig's Java Jiva series and I like the hot tempered female main character.
The mystery was so, so and did remind me of a cozy mystery. I saw the killer early on, but didn't know the reasons why until later.
Thank you to Netgallery and Smith Publicity for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Ellie was in the police force as a criminalist until one case became too many and she became a professor at the local collage. One day, she and another professor stumble upon a student's body at a facility that the university had just purchased. The police department hires Ellie as a consultant.
I liked how Ellie was a criminalist, since I don't read too many books that involve forensic sciences. However it seemed that Ellie did a few forensic tests, but mostly just was a ride along with the police detective.
Ellie is like Juliet in Fardig's Java Jiva series and I like the hot tempered female main character.
The mystery was so, so and did remind me of a cozy mystery. I saw the killer early on, but didn't know the reasons why until later.
Thank you to Netgallery and Smith Publicity for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
July 29, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley and Seven River Publishing for the e-ARC of this book.
This is my first Caroline Fardig novel, and I will definitely be reading more of her books!
The main character, Ellie, currently teaches forensic science at a University. She recently left the police as a Forensic criminalist when one case became too much for her. In setting up a body farm with another professor, Ellie stumbles across a dead student and the police hire her back to work the case.
I liked the forensics in the book and learned a lot. However it seemed that Ellie did a few forensic tests, but mostly acted more as a detective as she worked with 2 in solving the murders.
The mystery was piece was okay but not really hard to figure out. I would have like to see more character development to give Ellie more depth. The ending was clearly unfinished. It ended so abruptly I thought I must have been missing a chapter. That should be cleaned up before publication.
3 out of 5 stars.
This is my first Caroline Fardig novel, and I will definitely be reading more of her books!
The main character, Ellie, currently teaches forensic science at a University. She recently left the police as a Forensic criminalist when one case became too much for her. In setting up a body farm with another professor, Ellie stumbles across a dead student and the police hire her back to work the case.
I liked the forensics in the book and learned a lot. However it seemed that Ellie did a few forensic tests, but mostly acted more as a detective as she worked with 2 in solving the murders.
The mystery was piece was okay but not really hard to figure out. I would have like to see more character development to give Ellie more depth. The ending was clearly unfinished. It ended so abruptly I thought I must have been missing a chapter. That should be cleaned up before publication.
3 out of 5 stars.
July 2, 2024
Road-trip audiobook. I thought that this book was on a very juvenile level. The comments that characters made to each other were terribly immature. Ellie was very inconsistent in her reactions and responses. She is a former CSI but now college professor with a difficult childhood in her past. I did not find her to be interesting. I did not care for the narration either. Ellie’s colleague is accused of murdering a college coed. He had been in a relationship with her and low and behold so had his dad. The dad George Cooper is running for political office and becomes a suspect. Ellie gets the hits for his security team lead, Rob. Then she is flirting with the detective, Baxter, on this case ( of which she is brought in as a consultant). She has a bad relationship with the other local detective in in the department because she hooked up with him in the men’s room of the local bar in the past. Yadda yadda yadda
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 18, 2022
Ellie Matthews is now teaching forensics at Ashmore College instead of working crime scenes. The new "outdoor anthropology research facility" AKA "body farm" proposed by her boss, Dr. Dudley Cooper, is causing a huge protest from the student body. When one of the most outspoken is found murdered on the site, the top suspect is Dr. Cooper. Ellie is asked by local law enforcement to help with the forensics which is not popular with her successor or with the college.
With many twist and turns and surprises about literally everyone involved, the ending is still a shocker!
The real story is Ellie and her family, especially her sister, Rachel and her son. Slowly Ellie's and Rachel's past is revealed and show just how far they have come and how strong and resilient they are.
Can't wait the read the next installment of Ellie's story.
With many twist and turns and surprises about literally everyone involved, the ending is still a shocker!
The real story is Ellie and her family, especially her sister, Rachel and her son. Slowly Ellie's and Rachel's past is revealed and show just how far they have come and how strong and resilient they are.
Can't wait the read the next installment of Ellie's story.
September 18, 2022
Ellie Matthews is now teaching forensics at Ashmore College instead of working crime scenes. The new "outdoor anthropology research facility" AKA "body farm" proposed by her boss, Dr. Dudley Cooper, is causing a huge protest from the student body. When one of the most outspoken is found murdered on the site, the top suspect is Dr. Cooper. Ellie is asked by local law enforcement to help with the forensics which is not popular with her successor or with the college.
With many twist and turns and surprises about literally everyone involved, the ending is still a shocker!
The real story is Ellie and her family, especially her sister, Rachel and her son. Slowly Ellie's and Rachel's past is revealed and show just how far they have come and how strong and resilient they are.
Can't wait the read the next installment of Ellie's story.
With many twist and turns and surprises about literally everyone involved, the ending is still a shocker!
The real story is Ellie and her family, especially her sister, Rachel and her son. Slowly Ellie's and Rachel's past is revealed and show just how far they have come and how strong and resilient they are.
Can't wait the read the next installment of Ellie's story.
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