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Romantic Suspense #22
Say You're Sorry
Special Agent Gideon Reynolds has tried hard to put his past behind him. He escaped the violence of his cult upbringing when he was just thirteen, and since then routine and discipline have been his way of making sense of the world. But when a petite blonde woman crashes into his life, he begins to realize that a little bit of chaos might not be so bad.
Daisy Dawson has had more than her fair share of pain too - but she's done being a victim. Daisy's determined to explore every new experience she can - including getting to know the dark and serious FBI investigator she meets when she fights off a masked attacker one night.
It soon becomes clear that Daisy's attack was just the beginning. Now the bloodied bodies of young women are showing up all over California, and, as Gideon tries to find the killer, it's clear that Daisy is in more danger than they ever realised...
Daisy Dawson has had more than her fair share of pain too - but she's done being a victim. Daisy's determined to explore every new experience she can - including getting to know the dark and serious FBI investigator she meets when she fights off a masked attacker one night.
It soon becomes clear that Daisy's attack was just the beginning. Now the bloodied bodies of young women are showing up all over California, and, as Gideon tries to find the killer, it's clear that Daisy is in more danger than they ever realised...
608 pages, Hardcover
First published February 12, 2019
1257 people are currently reading
13597 people want to read
About the author
Karen Rose
61 books5,468 followersOFFICIAL WEBSITE:
www.karenrosebooks.com
Internationally bestselling, RITA-award winning, author Karen Rose was born and raised in the Maryland suburbs of Washington, DC. She met her husband, Martin, on a blind date when they were seventeen and after they both graduated from the University of Maryland, (Karen with a degree in Chemical Engineering) they moved to Cincinnati, Ohio. Karen worked as an engineer for a large consumer goods company, earning two patents, but as Karen says, “scenes were roiling in my head and I couldn't concentrate on my job so I started writing them down. I started out writing for fun, and soon found I was hooked.”
Her debut suspense novel, DON'T TELL, was released in July, 2003. Since then, she has published fifteen more novels and two novellas. Her seventeenth novel, ALONE IN THE DARK, will be released in 2016.
Karen's books have appeared on the bestseller lists of the New York Times, USA Today, London's Sunday Times, and Germany's der Spiegel (#1), and the Irish Times, as well as lists in South Africa (#1) and Australia!
Her novels, I'M WATCHING YOU and SILENT SCREAM, received the Romance Writers of America's RITA award for Best Romantic Suspense for 2005 and 2011. Five of her other books have been RITA finalists. To date, her books have been translated into twenty-four languages.
A former high school teacher of chemistry and physics, Karen lives in Florida with her husband of more than twenty years, her two daughters, two dogs, and a cat.
www.karenrosebooks.com
Internationally bestselling, RITA-award winning, author Karen Rose was born and raised in the Maryland suburbs of Washington, DC. She met her husband, Martin, on a blind date when they were seventeen and after they both graduated from the University of Maryland, (Karen with a degree in Chemical Engineering) they moved to Cincinnati, Ohio. Karen worked as an engineer for a large consumer goods company, earning two patents, but as Karen says, “scenes were roiling in my head and I couldn't concentrate on my job so I started writing them down. I started out writing for fun, and soon found I was hooked.”
Her debut suspense novel, DON'T TELL, was released in July, 2003. Since then, she has published fifteen more novels and two novellas. Her seventeenth novel, ALONE IN THE DARK, will be released in 2016.
Karen's books have appeared on the bestseller lists of the New York Times, USA Today, London's Sunday Times, and Germany's der Spiegel (#1), and the Irish Times, as well as lists in South Africa (#1) and Australia!
Her novels, I'M WATCHING YOU and SILENT SCREAM, received the Romance Writers of America's RITA award for Best Romantic Suspense for 2005 and 2011. Five of her other books have been RITA finalists. To date, her books have been translated into twenty-four languages.
A former high school teacher of chemistry and physics, Karen lives in Florida with her husband of more than twenty years, her two daughters, two dogs, and a cat.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,166 reviews
December 5, 2018
How I’ve managed to miss this author over the years... I have no idea!
This was my first read by Karen Rose. Romantic suspense is not my go-to genre but I do like to dip a toe in that direction every once in a while.
This book is 600+ pages and there are a lot of moving parts from start to finish. Religious cults, serial killers, and of course, a dash of romance!
What more can you ask for in one book?!
Will this be the beginning of a new series by this author? I sure hope so! I’m quite curious to see where Karen Rose will take these characters next.
Karen Rose writes an enjoyable, highly suspenseful read. It's an amazingly fast read... given the size of the book. A tip of the hat to the author for managing that!
If you’re a fan of romantic suspense don’t miss out on this one! I would recommend.
Oh and the cover....gorgeous!!
A buddy read with Susanne!☃️
Thank you to Elisha at Berkley Publishing Group for an ARC to read and review.
This was my first read by Karen Rose. Romantic suspense is not my go-to genre but I do like to dip a toe in that direction every once in a while.
This book is 600+ pages and there are a lot of moving parts from start to finish. Religious cults, serial killers, and of course, a dash of romance!
What more can you ask for in one book?!
Will this be the beginning of a new series by this author? I sure hope so! I’m quite curious to see where Karen Rose will take these characters next.
Karen Rose writes an enjoyable, highly suspenseful read. It's an amazingly fast read... given the size of the book. A tip of the hat to the author for managing that!
If you’re a fan of romantic suspense don’t miss out on this one! I would recommend.
Oh and the cover....gorgeous!!
A buddy read with Susanne!☃️
Thank you to Elisha at Berkley Publishing Group for an ARC to read and review.
December 5, 2018
4 Stars! A High-Octane filled Romantic Suspense!
When Daisy Dawson is assaulted by a bald man with a stocking over his face she fights back and gets away. She is the first woman ever to do so. Before getting away she grabbed a locket off of his neck. Turns out it’s significant as the locket is linked to past crimes. FBI agent Gideon Reynolds recognizes it. It has a name engraved on the back: Miriam. He knows who it belongs to, someone he used to know. His sister Mercy wore one just like it. The fact that it has surfaced gives him both hope and it scares him to death.
Now Agent Reynolds is assigned to the protection detail of Daisy Dawson and is desperate to figure out how these cases are connected before something worse happens. The clock however is ticking and whoever is out to get Daisy has grand plans.
“Say You’re Sorry” is a wicked fast-paced, easy to read, romantic suspense that kept me highly entertained. Though it’s over 600 pages, I flew through it in what seemed like just a few hours.
This was my first Karen Rose novel - it came highly recommended and I must say, I am so glad I took a chance on this fabulous read!
This was another buddy read with Kaceey!
Thank you to Elisha at Berkley Publishing Group and to Karen Rose for a galley of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Published to Goodreads, Twitter on 12.5.18.
Excerpt to be published on Instagram.
Will be published on Amazon on release date.
When Daisy Dawson is assaulted by a bald man with a stocking over his face she fights back and gets away. She is the first woman ever to do so. Before getting away she grabbed a locket off of his neck. Turns out it’s significant as the locket is linked to past crimes. FBI agent Gideon Reynolds recognizes it. It has a name engraved on the back: Miriam. He knows who it belongs to, someone he used to know. His sister Mercy wore one just like it. The fact that it has surfaced gives him both hope and it scares him to death.
Now Agent Reynolds is assigned to the protection detail of Daisy Dawson and is desperate to figure out how these cases are connected before something worse happens. The clock however is ticking and whoever is out to get Daisy has grand plans.
“Say You’re Sorry” is a wicked fast-paced, easy to read, romantic suspense that kept me highly entertained. Though it’s over 600 pages, I flew through it in what seemed like just a few hours.
This was my first Karen Rose novel - it came highly recommended and I must say, I am so glad I took a chance on this fabulous read!
This was another buddy read with Kaceey!
Thank you to Elisha at Berkley Publishing Group and to Karen Rose for a galley of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Published to Goodreads, Twitter on 12.5.18.
Excerpt to be published on Instagram.
Will be published on Amazon on release date.
July 25, 2019
Say You’re Sorry by Karen Rose is a 2019 Berkley publication.
Quintessential Karen Rose- Taut, edgy, steamy, and suspenseful!!
Special Agent Gideon Reynolds ran away from a religious cult in his early teens, but still bears the physical and psychological scars. He manages his life with discipline and control. But, when Daisy Dawson manages to escape from a vicious masked attacker, she pulls a locket from his neck, one that Gideon instantly recognizes.
It looks exactly like the one his sister used to wear. How does Daisy’s attacker tie in with Gideon’s past?
When Gideon is assigned to be Daisy’s bodyguard, the couple work in tandem to stop a serial killer before Daisy becomes his next victim.
This book grabbed my attention from the very first chapter and kept me on the edge of my seat to the bitter end. The pacing never slows, as truly shocking and creepy events unfold. Crawling inside the mind of a demented killer is always super tense, so you’ll want to fasten your seat belts for this ride.
Daisy and Gideon develop a very strong bond as they each struggle with emotional scars from their past. They are a great couple and made a pretty good crime solving team, as well.
In my opinion, Karen Rose is the queen of romantic suspense. She writes RS the way it should be, with an even balance between the romance and suspense. The plot is dark and believable, and one always gets their money’s worth with one of KR's books. While her stories are usually pretty intense, and features disturbing content, and some violence, it is not too overly graphic.
Her work is mature and always reliable and this book was no exception! This is another outstanding effort by Karen Rose!
Quintessential Karen Rose- Taut, edgy, steamy, and suspenseful!!
Special Agent Gideon Reynolds ran away from a religious cult in his early teens, but still bears the physical and psychological scars. He manages his life with discipline and control. But, when Daisy Dawson manages to escape from a vicious masked attacker, she pulls a locket from his neck, one that Gideon instantly recognizes.
It looks exactly like the one his sister used to wear. How does Daisy’s attacker tie in with Gideon’s past?
When Gideon is assigned to be Daisy’s bodyguard, the couple work in tandem to stop a serial killer before Daisy becomes his next victim.
This book grabbed my attention from the very first chapter and kept me on the edge of my seat to the bitter end. The pacing never slows, as truly shocking and creepy events unfold. Crawling inside the mind of a demented killer is always super tense, so you’ll want to fasten your seat belts for this ride.
Daisy and Gideon develop a very strong bond as they each struggle with emotional scars from their past. They are a great couple and made a pretty good crime solving team, as well.
In my opinion, Karen Rose is the queen of romantic suspense. She writes RS the way it should be, with an even balance between the romance and suspense. The plot is dark and believable, and one always gets their money’s worth with one of KR's books. While her stories are usually pretty intense, and features disturbing content, and some violence, it is not too overly graphic.
Her work is mature and always reliable and this book was no exception! This is another outstanding effort by Karen Rose!
February 17, 2019
A Smart, suspenseful, and sexy romantic suspense story!
Karen Rose is definitely the queen of romantic suspense... I felt this book was the perfect balance of both romance and suspense... The romance was sizzling and swoon worthy while the suspense was dark and nail biting.... Karen Rose doesn’t pull any punches, both the romance and suspense in this book are gritty, graphic, and raw... this is not for the faint of heart, so if you don’t like all the intimate details, this one might not be for you....
This book is over 600 pages, but it certainly did not seem that way... I flew through those pages and never did I think when does this end? In fact I wasn’t quite ready to say goodbye to these characters yet.... Daisy was a fabulous protagonist and Gideon wasn’t too bad either😉 The chemistry between these two was off the charts.... hot🔥 and what I really appreciated is they not only connected on a physical level but also on an emotional and intellectual level, bravo to that! Also the fact that these two found time for romance and sizzle was quite impressive with all that was going on... A crazy creepy serial killer, A connection to a cult that’s part of Gideon’s past, well that’s it, but there is a lot to both of those! Two seemingly separate stories that thread together perfectly!
We got many different perspectives in this book including that of the demented killer... and can I just say this guy was creepy squared! But I love that... I love getting into the mind of crazy and this guy definitely fit that bill.... along with Daisy and Gideon we had a cast of very well drawn secondary characters... my hope is the next book is about Gideon’s sister....
A well-crafted story that will make you sweat, swoon, and squirm! An intense fast pace story bursting with romance and suspense! Recommend!
🎵🎵🎵 song running through My Head
I can't seem to face up to the facts
I'm tense and nervous and I can't relax
I can't sleep 'cause my bed's on fire
Don't touch me I'm a real live wire
Psycho Killer
Qu'est-ce que c'est
Fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-far better
Run run run run run run run away oh oh
Psycho Killer
Qu'est-ce que c'est
Fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-far better
Run, run, run, run, run, run, run, away oh oh oh
Yeah yeah yeah yeah!
You start a conversation you can't even finish it
You're talking a lot, but you're not saying anything
When I have nothing to say, my lips are sealed
Say something once, why say it again?
Psycho Killer
Qu'est-ce que c'est
Fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-far better
Run run run run run run run away oh oh oh
Psycho Killer
Qu'est-ce que c'est
Fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-far…
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=BlWZFxC...
*** many thanks to Berkley for my copy of this book ***
Karen Rose is definitely the queen of romantic suspense... I felt this book was the perfect balance of both romance and suspense... The romance was sizzling and swoon worthy while the suspense was dark and nail biting.... Karen Rose doesn’t pull any punches, both the romance and suspense in this book are gritty, graphic, and raw... this is not for the faint of heart, so if you don’t like all the intimate details, this one might not be for you....
This book is over 600 pages, but it certainly did not seem that way... I flew through those pages and never did I think when does this end? In fact I wasn’t quite ready to say goodbye to these characters yet.... Daisy was a fabulous protagonist and Gideon wasn’t too bad either😉 The chemistry between these two was off the charts.... hot🔥 and what I really appreciated is they not only connected on a physical level but also on an emotional and intellectual level, bravo to that! Also the fact that these two found time for romance and sizzle was quite impressive with all that was going on... A crazy creepy serial killer, A connection to a cult that’s part of Gideon’s past, well that’s it, but there is a lot to both of those! Two seemingly separate stories that thread together perfectly!
We got many different perspectives in this book including that of the demented killer... and can I just say this guy was creepy squared! But I love that... I love getting into the mind of crazy and this guy definitely fit that bill.... along with Daisy and Gideon we had a cast of very well drawn secondary characters... my hope is the next book is about Gideon’s sister....
A well-crafted story that will make you sweat, swoon, and squirm! An intense fast pace story bursting with romance and suspense! Recommend!
🎵🎵🎵 song running through My Head
I can't seem to face up to the facts
I'm tense and nervous and I can't relax
I can't sleep 'cause my bed's on fire
Don't touch me I'm a real live wire
Psycho Killer
Qu'est-ce que c'est
Fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-far better
Run run run run run run run away oh oh
Psycho Killer
Qu'est-ce que c'est
Fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-far better
Run, run, run, run, run, run, run, away oh oh oh
Yeah yeah yeah yeah!
You start a conversation you can't even finish it
You're talking a lot, but you're not saying anything
When I have nothing to say, my lips are sealed
Say something once, why say it again?
Psycho Killer
Qu'est-ce que c'est
Fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-far better
Run run run run run run run away oh oh oh
Psycho Killer
Qu'est-ce que c'est
Fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-fa-far…
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=BlWZFxC...
*** many thanks to Berkley for my copy of this book ***
October 11, 2018
I've heard great things about Karen Rose and liked the sound of this one. I wasn't disappointed. This is the first book in the Sacramento series.
The characters were well-developed and intriguing. I enjoyed the chemistry between Gideon and Daisy and was rooting for them to take it to the next level. He is an FBI investigator and is assigned to her case. They both have a history that haunts them, and as we learn the pieces of their past, we learn what makes each of them tick. I will be reading the next in the series.
The villain was also very compelling and we find out his background later in the story. Let's just say he had "issues".
The story moves at a quick pace as we follow Daisy's case, her romance with the hottie Gideon, and the oh-so creepy killer.
If you like to mix it up, this one is a good pick.
The characters were well-developed and intriguing. I enjoyed the chemistry between Gideon and Daisy and was rooting for them to take it to the next level. He is an FBI investigator and is assigned to her case. They both have a history that haunts them, and as we learn the pieces of their past, we learn what makes each of them tick. I will be reading the next in the series.
The villain was also very compelling and we find out his background later in the story. Let's just say he had "issues".
The story moves at a quick pace as we follow Daisy's case, her romance with the hottie Gideon, and the oh-so creepy killer.
If you like to mix it up, this one is a good pick.
May 29, 2021
Say You’re Sorry by Karen Rose
Sacramento book 1. Thriller with a touch of romance (mostly in the epilogue).
High Intensity and suspenseful with alternating chapters between an FBI agent, a victim and an unhinged serial killer. Complex and faceted character building.
Edge of your seat reading. Over 600 pages so not a quick read, but worth the time.
Sacramento book 1. Thriller with a touch of romance (mostly in the epilogue).
High Intensity and suspenseful with alternating chapters between an FBI agent, a victim and an unhinged serial killer. Complex and faceted character building.
Edge of your seat reading. Over 600 pages so not a quick read, but worth the time.
February 13, 2019
A different genre for me, and I had fun with it!
I had no idea Karen Rose has such an extensive backlist of well-loved works. Say You’re Sorry is part of her Romantic Suspense series, but it’s also the first in her new Sacramento series. At first glance, this book is a whopper, but it never felt like it! I’ll tell you why!
Gideon Reynolds is a special agent with a past. He was brought up in a cult, and once he escaped, he used routine to keep himself safe. His highly structured world is shaken up when Daisy Dawson arrives.
Daisy has to seek the help of the FBI when she’s attacked by a man in a mask. Who is assigned to her case? None other than Gideon.
The two find out that Daisy’s attack is not isolated when other women are being attacked, too. And Daisy may still be in danger with a possible serial killer looming.
Say You’re Sorry is gripping with a high-speed pace! Tons of action, it felt like a movie! The romance between Gideon and Daisy is steamy, but the suspense definitely takes the front seat. Smooth writing and a taut plot made reading this one the perfect experience! I loved it!
I received a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
My reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com
I had no idea Karen Rose has such an extensive backlist of well-loved works. Say You’re Sorry is part of her Romantic Suspense series, but it’s also the first in her new Sacramento series. At first glance, this book is a whopper, but it never felt like it! I’ll tell you why!
Gideon Reynolds is a special agent with a past. He was brought up in a cult, and once he escaped, he used routine to keep himself safe. His highly structured world is shaken up when Daisy Dawson arrives.
Daisy has to seek the help of the FBI when she’s attacked by a man in a mask. Who is assigned to her case? None other than Gideon.
The two find out that Daisy’s attack is not isolated when other women are being attacked, too. And Daisy may still be in danger with a possible serial killer looming.
Say You’re Sorry is gripping with a high-speed pace! Tons of action, it felt like a movie! The romance between Gideon and Daisy is steamy, but the suspense definitely takes the front seat. Smooth writing and a taut plot made reading this one the perfect experience! I loved it!
I received a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
My reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com
August 17, 2019
Say You're Sorry by Karen Rose is her 22nd book I've read but the first in the Sacramento series and it's just as sexy, thrilling and pulse pounding as the last 21 books 😍
There's a killer who's just crazy (as you expect) and there's a side story interwoven about a cult called Eden which I can't wait for the next book to found out if they catch the evil sods who run it 😤
If you want an intense sexy romance with plenty of suspense with the right amount of crime then this is the book you need to read,so far Karen Rose hits the spot every time so I definitely recommend this book but also any others she has written 📖
There's a killer who's just crazy (as you expect) and there's a side story interwoven about a cult called Eden which I can't wait for the next book to found out if they catch the evil sods who run it 😤
If you want an intense sexy romance with plenty of suspense with the right amount of crime then this is the book you need to read,so far Karen Rose hits the spot every time so I definitely recommend this book but also any others she has written 📖
March 21, 2019
DNF at 250 pages
I was going to attempt to read this 600 pages book in 6 days. I wanted to do 100 pages a day and I was fully committed to doing so, but I could not get into this book. I tried for three days to read this and I just can't do it anymore. This is a romantic thriller that I was super stoked to read that is about a serial killer in Sacramento, CA. It also follows from the POV of this girl Daisy Dawson who was attacked by the serial killer and who is also a radio host, and it follows the POV of Gideon Reynolds who is a detective.
I usually don't enjoy books that follow from the POV of a detective, I don't know why but I usually don't end up liking thriller that follow a detective's POV... I just can't connect and I'd rather only follow the people involved. A romance begins between Daisy Dawson and Gideon Reynolds, which was cute-ish at first but then it got so repetitive and annoying. I don't know how often Daisy refers to Gideon as "so beautiful" or how often he has to comment on "how sexy her voice is" I just got annoyed of it very quickly and I didn't connect to either of them.
I feel like a lot of these conversations get repeated over and over and this book is 600 pages long and it could've been cut down soooo much. Like Gideon will take about his past with his friend Rafe, and then he'll later think about their conversation, and then he'll talk to his sister about it again and then he'll finally gain the courage to talk to Daisy about it. I know it sounds so nitpicky but these characters keep having the same conversations over and over again it was frustrating.
The serial killer character was the most interesting character in this book but even he was a pretty stereotypical forgettable serial killer and his POV chapters got repetitive too. I also disliked how it would change from POV to POV and it wouldn't tell you who's POV you were reading from so you'd just have to try and figure it out even though Daisy and Gideon's voice sound exactly the same....
I'm bummed I didn't like this because it started off promising enough but oh my gosh, it got so repetitive and I'm bored out of my mind and I have so many other books I want to read.
I was going to attempt to read this 600 pages book in 6 days. I wanted to do 100 pages a day and I was fully committed to doing so, but I could not get into this book. I tried for three days to read this and I just can't do it anymore. This is a romantic thriller that I was super stoked to read that is about a serial killer in Sacramento, CA. It also follows from the POV of this girl Daisy Dawson who was attacked by the serial killer and who is also a radio host, and it follows the POV of Gideon Reynolds who is a detective.
I usually don't enjoy books that follow from the POV of a detective, I don't know why but I usually don't end up liking thriller that follow a detective's POV... I just can't connect and I'd rather only follow the people involved. A romance begins between Daisy Dawson and Gideon Reynolds, which was cute-ish at first but then it got so repetitive and annoying. I don't know how often Daisy refers to Gideon as "so beautiful" or how often he has to comment on "how sexy her voice is" I just got annoyed of it very quickly and I didn't connect to either of them.
I feel like a lot of these conversations get repeated over and over and this book is 600 pages long and it could've been cut down soooo much. Like Gideon will take about his past with his friend Rafe, and then he'll later think about their conversation, and then he'll talk to his sister about it again and then he'll finally gain the courage to talk to Daisy about it. I know it sounds so nitpicky but these characters keep having the same conversations over and over again it was frustrating.
The serial killer character was the most interesting character in this book but even he was a pretty stereotypical forgettable serial killer and his POV chapters got repetitive too. I also disliked how it would change from POV to POV and it wouldn't tell you who's POV you were reading from so you'd just have to try and figure it out even though Daisy and Gideon's voice sound exactly the same....
I'm bummed I didn't like this because it started off promising enough but oh my gosh, it got so repetitive and I'm bored out of my mind and I have so many other books I want to read.
March 3, 2019
Steamy, heart-pounding, and engrossing—Karen Rose’s latest novel of romantic suspense has a little something for everyone! I find romantic suspense to be an incredibly difficult genre to write. For me, romantic suspense novels tend to tip too heavily towards the romance, and leave the suspense part feeling rushed. Say You’re Sorry doesn’t feel that way at all! With the skill to handle the delicate balance between two strong genres, I can see why Karen Rose is so beloved!
Reflection
I want to dedicate my entire review to Daisy Dawson. What an incredible character! Daisy is super strong while having the sensitivity of a more fragile woman. And not in the annoying way many romance heroines are! Reading Say You’re Sorry, I truly felt that Daisy could have survived the book without Gideon. Daisy is a fighter and she kills them with kindness and a deadly sharp shot! Daisy gives the impression that she could survive anything! She is fierce about her convictions, but she still shakes after conflict. Daisy know what she wants and she knows what she is worth. And she gives as much love to the world as she can!
But of course, it wouldn’t be romantic suspense without a little bit of heat—or a lot of it! And Karen Rose delivers with hot and brooding Gideon. With a dark, abusive past, Gideon is an atypical hero for our recovering addict, fierce femme—but he is impossible to write off once you get to know him! Gideon is not just a hottie, he has a heart of gold and treats Daisy with respect! Basically, the perfect man.
The mystery itself is so compelling! About 50% of the book is narrated by the creepy serial killer who is the main antagonist of the book. This mysterious figure is so messed up! If he didn’t do such horrific things, there are moments where I almost pitied him and his past. But then I remember what he has done and I want him to burn!!!
There’s also a fascinating cult storyline—one that inadvertently is the catalyst for not only the killer’s downfall, but also for Daisy and Gideon’s fated union. Hold on for a crazy compelling story with this cult! I could read a whole book about it and it’s twisted, damaging philosophy pretending to protect those it victimizes the most!
Many thanks to Berkley for my copy to review.
Reflection
I want to dedicate my entire review to Daisy Dawson. What an incredible character! Daisy is super strong while having the sensitivity of a more fragile woman. And not in the annoying way many romance heroines are! Reading Say You’re Sorry, I truly felt that Daisy could have survived the book without Gideon. Daisy is a fighter and she kills them with kindness and a deadly sharp shot! Daisy gives the impression that she could survive anything! She is fierce about her convictions, but she still shakes after conflict. Daisy know what she wants and she knows what she is worth. And she gives as much love to the world as she can!
But of course, it wouldn’t be romantic suspense without a little bit of heat—or a lot of it! And Karen Rose delivers with hot and brooding Gideon. With a dark, abusive past, Gideon is an atypical hero for our recovering addict, fierce femme—but he is impossible to write off once you get to know him! Gideon is not just a hottie, he has a heart of gold and treats Daisy with respect! Basically, the perfect man.
The mystery itself is so compelling! About 50% of the book is narrated by the creepy serial killer who is the main antagonist of the book. This mysterious figure is so messed up! If he didn’t do such horrific things, there are moments where I almost pitied him and his past. But then I remember what he has done and I want him to burn!!!
There’s also a fascinating cult storyline—one that inadvertently is the catalyst for not only the killer’s downfall, but also for Daisy and Gideon’s fated union. Hold on for a crazy compelling story with this cult! I could read a whole book about it and it’s twisted, damaging philosophy pretending to protect those it victimizes the most!
Many thanks to Berkley for my copy to review.
February 25, 2019
I won this in a Goodreads giveaway.
Thriller A Thon: Thriller with the best cover
50 States Thriller Challenge: California
As you should all know by now, I like to keep my expectations low.
If you keep expectations low, than you're more likely to have an enjoyable experience. Say You're Sorry is the first Karen Rose novel I've read and until I won this book I hadn't even looked at any of her other books. So I based my expectations off of the fact that her series were described as Romance Suspense. I was expecting something more along the lines of Nora Roberts. That's not shade I read Nora Roberts and respect them for what they are. That said I don't expect hard hitting crime when I read Nora Roberts.
So imagine my surprise when I open this book and I am hitting with some pretty detailed torture scenes.
Me likey!!!
Say You're Sorry not only provided me with a great serial killer hunt but we get the added bonus(Im pretty sure thats an oxymoron) of smut! The sex scenes in this book are HOT! y'all.
I need to go buy some Karen Rose novels because I really enjoyed this book and this book is somehow related to her other series so that will be fun.
I highly recommend this book and this author.
Thriller A Thon: Thriller with the best cover
50 States Thriller Challenge: California
As you should all know by now, I like to keep my expectations low.
If you keep expectations low, than you're more likely to have an enjoyable experience. Say You're Sorry is the first Karen Rose novel I've read and until I won this book I hadn't even looked at any of her other books. So I based my expectations off of the fact that her series were described as Romance Suspense. I was expecting something more along the lines of Nora Roberts. That's not shade I read Nora Roberts and respect them for what they are. That said I don't expect hard hitting crime when I read Nora Roberts.
So imagine my surprise when I open this book and I am hitting with some pretty detailed torture scenes.
Me likey!!!
Say You're Sorry not only provided me with a great serial killer hunt but we get the added bonus(Im pretty sure thats an oxymoron) of smut! The sex scenes in this book are HOT! y'all.
I need to go buy some Karen Rose novels because I really enjoyed this book and this book is somehow related to her other series so that will be fun.
I highly recommend this book and this author.
April 14, 2019
Good god!
I thought this book would never end! It just went on and on with over the top and extremely implausible scenarios. I gave up being rational and just trudged on because well... I sometimes like to torture myself that way :-/
Don't have the patience to list out all that irked me about the plot, characters, dialogues etc
I'l just say am definitely sorry to have read this book. Pun totally intended. Meh
I thought this book would never end! It just went on and on with over the top and extremely implausible scenarios. I gave up being rational and just trudged on because well... I sometimes like to torture myself that way :-/
Don't have the patience to list out all that irked me about the plot, characters, dialogues etc
I'l just say am definitely sorry to have read this book. Pun totally intended. Meh
February 13, 2019
Synopsis
When a serial killer targets Daisy Dawson, he doesn't expect her to fight back. But she does, and she manages to grab the locket he wears around his neck during the struggle. This locket connects to a cult that Agent Gideon Reynolds of the FBI escaped when he was only 13 years old. He is driven to find that cult and expose them, saving the women and children from their psychotic leader's tyranny. This serial killer is Gideon's one tangible connection to the cult. He's assigned to Daisy to protect her from the killer and hopefully draw him out. Daisy and Gideon have undeniable chemistry, and Gideon quickly realizes that Daisy isn't as helpless as he thought she was...
Language
First off, I want to say that Karen Rose is an excellent writer. Everything she writes is wrought with tension, and she creates such dynamic and realistic characters that it's hard not to grow attached to every single one of them, even minor characters. This is the primary reason why I gave Say You're Sorry a 4 star rating, even though I had several issues with the plot, pacing, and characters.
Plot
Say You're Sorry is gripping from the very first lines of the prologue. The concept of the story itself is thrilling. A psycho who kidnaps women and tortures them until they say they're "sorry"? This is what nightmares are made of! Even the backstory of the cult that Gideon escaped as a pre-teen is intriguing and propels the plot forward.
That said, the plot lags from time to time. The characters spend a lot of time talking. This would be fine if it weren't highly repetitive talking. We're introduced to the characters Gideon and Daisy and right off the bat we know a little bit about their traumatic backstories. We're given that information (in significant detail), but we also have to be given that information again as they reveal it to each other. Daisy and Gideon have a lot of issues with their family members, and they talk about these issues ad nauseam. These discussions end up repeating the details of their traumatic pasts, whether it's in the dialogue or what the characters are thinking. Even at the end, when Gideon tells his family the truth about his childhood trauma, instead of including this as a quick narrative paragraph, the author feels the need to retell it all over the span of several pages. This is all information that the reader has been exposed to multiple times over the course of the 544-page book. I'm more familiar with Gideon's backstory better than my own, and I actually lived it.
The POV scenes for the serial killer were a thrilling way to push the plot forward and give us insight into his motives. I almost felt bad for him (almost), which says something about Rose's writing style. That said, towards the end, his scenes were a tad too frequent. We knew exactly where the serial killer was at any given time, which removed any element of surprise when he attacked.
Characters
I already touched upon this a little under the plot section, but I do want to point out that the characters are a little far fetched. Gideon and Daisy have been through serious traumas in their life. This part isn't unrealistic. But it's what they went through that requires a suspension of disbelief. I think it would have been fine if one of them had a bizarre backstory, and the other had a more generic childhood trauma. But no, both of them have really detailed and hard-to-swallow backstories that get more convoluted as the novel progresses. I love a cheesy romantic suspense, but it did make my roll my eyes a few times.
I'm also not a huge fan of the "love at first sight" plot device, unless the characters can't be together, or there are some major obstacles tearing them apart. Aside from the serial killer on the loose, there isn't much keeping Daisy and Gideon from being together. In fact, the serial killer targetting Daisy actually keeps them together, because Gideon doesn't want to let her out of his sight. Daisy and Gideon essentially fall in love when they first lay eyes on each other, and despite being extremely damaged emotionally, they don't have much trouble opening up to each other. This made for a fairly linear romantic plotline in a story which had quite a few twists and turns in the mystery plotline.
I recommend this book to anyone looking for a lengthy romantic suspense, who doesn't mind repetition, and loves POV scenes from a psychotic serial killer.
*Thank you to Netgalley and Berkley Publishing Group for the arc for review!*
This review appeared first on https://powerlibrarian.wordpress.com/
Instagram | Blog | Website | Twitter
My 2019 Reading Challenge
When a serial killer targets Daisy Dawson, he doesn't expect her to fight back. But she does, and she manages to grab the locket he wears around his neck during the struggle. This locket connects to a cult that Agent Gideon Reynolds of the FBI escaped when he was only 13 years old. He is driven to find that cult and expose them, saving the women and children from their psychotic leader's tyranny. This serial killer is Gideon's one tangible connection to the cult. He's assigned to Daisy to protect her from the killer and hopefully draw him out. Daisy and Gideon have undeniable chemistry, and Gideon quickly realizes that Daisy isn't as helpless as he thought she was...
Language
First off, I want to say that Karen Rose is an excellent writer. Everything she writes is wrought with tension, and she creates such dynamic and realistic characters that it's hard not to grow attached to every single one of them, even minor characters. This is the primary reason why I gave Say You're Sorry a 4 star rating, even though I had several issues with the plot, pacing, and characters.
Plot
Say You're Sorry is gripping from the very first lines of the prologue. The concept of the story itself is thrilling. A psycho who kidnaps women and tortures them until they say they're "sorry"? This is what nightmares are made of! Even the backstory of the cult that Gideon escaped as a pre-teen is intriguing and propels the plot forward.
That said, the plot lags from time to time. The characters spend a lot of time talking. This would be fine if it weren't highly repetitive talking. We're introduced to the characters Gideon and Daisy and right off the bat we know a little bit about their traumatic backstories. We're given that information (in significant detail), but we also have to be given that information again as they reveal it to each other. Daisy and Gideon have a lot of issues with their family members, and they talk about these issues ad nauseam. These discussions end up repeating the details of their traumatic pasts, whether it's in the dialogue or what the characters are thinking. Even at the end, when Gideon tells his family the truth about his childhood trauma, instead of including this as a quick narrative paragraph, the author feels the need to retell it all over the span of several pages. This is all information that the reader has been exposed to multiple times over the course of the 544-page book. I'm more familiar with Gideon's backstory better than my own, and I actually lived it.
The POV scenes for the serial killer were a thrilling way to push the plot forward and give us insight into his motives. I almost felt bad for him (almost), which says something about Rose's writing style. That said, towards the end, his scenes were a tad too frequent. We knew exactly where the serial killer was at any given time, which removed any element of surprise when he attacked.
Characters
I already touched upon this a little under the plot section, but I do want to point out that the characters are a little far fetched. Gideon and Daisy have been through serious traumas in their life. This part isn't unrealistic. But it's what they went through that requires a suspension of disbelief. I think it would have been fine if one of them had a bizarre backstory, and the other had a more generic childhood trauma. But no, both of them have really detailed and hard-to-swallow backstories that get more convoluted as the novel progresses. I love a cheesy romantic suspense, but it did make my roll my eyes a few times.
I'm also not a huge fan of the "love at first sight" plot device, unless the characters can't be together, or there are some major obstacles tearing them apart. Aside from the serial killer on the loose, there isn't much keeping Daisy and Gideon from being together. In fact, the serial killer targetting Daisy actually keeps them together, because Gideon doesn't want to let her out of his sight. Daisy and Gideon essentially fall in love when they first lay eyes on each other, and despite being extremely damaged emotionally, they don't have much trouble opening up to each other. This made for a fairly linear romantic plotline in a story which had quite a few twists and turns in the mystery plotline.
I recommend this book to anyone looking for a lengthy romantic suspense, who doesn't mind repetition, and loves POV scenes from a psychotic serial killer.
*Thank you to Netgalley and Berkley Publishing Group for the arc for review!*
This review appeared first on https://powerlibrarian.wordpress.com/
Instagram | Blog | Website | Twitter
My 2019 Reading Challenge
April 15, 2020
Currently on sale!!
Amazon US * Amazon UK
Say You're Sorry brings us to another city with a story full of suspense and mystery. Daisy has a connection to the Baltimore series but this can be read as a complete standalone with no confusion. Which, I just have to say, I absolutely love how Ms. Rose has been able to connect twenty some books together in some way or another and yet it's never in a confusing or pointless way. If you haven't read her previous books you won't even know that there's a character she's already created, and if you have read them then you get to have a moment of joy when you see a character you once loved in their own book.
Along with Daisy we're introduced to Gideon Reynolds, FBI agent and ex-cult member. Their journey takes us a on a crazy ride on the hunt for a crazed killer and the answers to the mystery surrounding the members still trapped in the same cult Gideon escaped many years ago. The story is intriguingly full of mind-boggling suspense and take-your-breath-away moments that will leave have you completely captivated. And of course there's the added bonus of getting to swoon over how possessive Gideon can become with Daisy.
This author will always be an instant one-click for me and every book she writes gets a huge recommendation from me. If you haven't read her books before you are just downright crazy and should fix that by reading this one. Her Romantic Suspense books are some of the best out there.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
Amazon US * Amazon UK
Say You're Sorry brings us to another city with a story full of suspense and mystery. Daisy has a connection to the Baltimore series but this can be read as a complete standalone with no confusion. Which, I just have to say, I absolutely love how Ms. Rose has been able to connect twenty some books together in some way or another and yet it's never in a confusing or pointless way. If you haven't read her previous books you won't even know that there's a character she's already created, and if you have read them then you get to have a moment of joy when you see a character you once loved in their own book.
Along with Daisy we're introduced to Gideon Reynolds, FBI agent and ex-cult member. Their journey takes us a on a crazy ride on the hunt for a crazed killer and the answers to the mystery surrounding the members still trapped in the same cult Gideon escaped many years ago. The story is intriguingly full of mind-boggling suspense and take-your-breath-away moments that will leave have you completely captivated. And of course there's the added bonus of getting to swoon over how possessive Gideon can become with Daisy.
This author will always be an instant one-click for me and every book she writes gets a huge recommendation from me. If you haven't read her books before you are just downright crazy and should fix that by reading this one. Her Romantic Suspense books are some of the best out there.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
April 22, 2019
I'm in the minority with my review. Sometimes that happens....and I guess this is one of those times.
I've given this 2 stars, and that somehow seems extremely generous. As I started this one, I really thought it was going to be my first 1-star rating this year. I wasn't sure I'd be able to finish. I actually did start skimming larger and larger sections. Some of my pet peeves (and I really don't have many) were counted for and in full representation. I won't cover all or go into spoiler alert detail but I have to mention a few.
In the audio, the narrator's efforts made me cringe. He couldn't do female voices. They either sounded like 2 bit thugs or mousy. Even the men started sounding the same, even when emotion changed...it was all the same.
The dialogue was equally as painful. It was awkward and overly wordy with minutia. The narrator seemed to amplify that.
The repetition was probably the main reason this was so long. So many times, characters had to relive their trauma over and over and over again. And really, they all had trauma and a fine tooth comb so they could comb through it often.
The last thing I'll mention has to do with the characters. Daisy, OMG, was portrayed as walking perfection. She had the King Midas touch and was worshiped by all. Every character often said things to the effect of, "Where would we be without you," "When I'm with you I feel so safe," "Thank you, we couldn't have done it without you, " "You are so perfect." Yada. Yada. Yada. It was truly gag worthy. And her counter part, OMG again, I'm not exactly sure who he was. He was supposed to be a tough FBI god-like (again) savior, but he was SO NOT THAT. He groveled, he second guessed, he needed saving in more ways than one. Everyone's sole purpose was to make Daisy look good, especially Mr. FBI-man. It was all about the one thing.
Okay, so most of the characters could have used some depth and some anchors to reality, but I have to say, in the second half, the story picked up and actually became interesting. I just wish more of that could have been more prevalent in the beginning. So I added a star for the interesting part. Overall this didn't work for me. So 2 stars.
I've given this 2 stars, and that somehow seems extremely generous. As I started this one, I really thought it was going to be my first 1-star rating this year. I wasn't sure I'd be able to finish. I actually did start skimming larger and larger sections. Some of my pet peeves (and I really don't have many) were counted for and in full representation. I won't cover all or go into spoiler alert detail but I have to mention a few.
In the audio, the narrator's efforts made me cringe. He couldn't do female voices. They either sounded like 2 bit thugs or mousy. Even the men started sounding the same, even when emotion changed...it was all the same.
The dialogue was equally as painful. It was awkward and overly wordy with minutia. The narrator seemed to amplify that.
The repetition was probably the main reason this was so long. So many times, characters had to relive their trauma over and over and over again. And really, they all had trauma and a fine tooth comb so they could comb through it often.
The last thing I'll mention has to do with the characters. Daisy, OMG, was portrayed as walking perfection. She had the King Midas touch and was worshiped by all. Every character often said things to the effect of, "Where would we be without you," "When I'm with you I feel so safe," "Thank you, we couldn't have done it without you, " "You are so perfect." Yada. Yada. Yada. It was truly gag worthy. And her counter part, OMG again, I'm not exactly sure who he was. He was supposed to be a tough FBI god-like (again) savior, but he was SO NOT THAT. He groveled, he second guessed, he needed saving in more ways than one. Everyone's sole purpose was to make Daisy look good, especially Mr. FBI-man. It was all about the one thing.
Okay, so most of the characters could have used some depth and some anchors to reality, but I have to say, in the second half, the story picked up and actually became interesting. I just wish more of that could have been more prevalent in the beginning. So I added a star for the interesting part. Overall this didn't work for me. So 2 stars.
February 12, 2019
4.5/5
I’ll be the first to admit that I don’t read a ton of romantic suspense, which is sorta weird because I like both suspense and romance separately, but not often together. I often find that there’s usually too much romance and not enough tension, I never really find the right balance for my personal taste. And then I was browsing Netgalley and saw the cover/blurb for this and I just couldn’t ignore it and I am thrilled that I gave it a try, it was excellent.
I have to warn you guys that this is a long book, over 600 pages, so this is not a book to binge read at all. It’s one where character development is key and Rose is fantastic at peeling back the layers of the main characters. It’s also the first in a new series where any good author will spend some time diving into their leads, so while understandable, it’s a dense one. I knew this going in and was prepared, so I settled in and savored the read, I want to make sure you also know this before thinking this is a one sitting read or one that you’ll fly through.
While it is long and the characters are incredibly well drawn, it is still incredibly tense and there is plenty of excitement. Daisy is in danger almost from page one and there was a fantastic sense of dread that steadily increased as the story progressed. Between the action there was a relationship burgeoning Daisy and Gideon and their chemistry was HOT, so basically there was always something exciting going on!
If you’re already a fan of romantic suspense then definitely check this out, and if you’re a little wary like me, this is an excellent place to start. Trust me, it’s still very dark with a creepy serial killer on the loose and even he was interesting and well drawn! There’s also a religious cult, which fascinates me, something for everyone here.
Say You’re Sorry in three words: Tense, Compelling and Dark.
I’ll be the first to admit that I don’t read a ton of romantic suspense, which is sorta weird because I like both suspense and romance separately, but not often together. I often find that there’s usually too much romance and not enough tension, I never really find the right balance for my personal taste. And then I was browsing Netgalley and saw the cover/blurb for this and I just couldn’t ignore it and I am thrilled that I gave it a try, it was excellent.
I have to warn you guys that this is a long book, over 600 pages, so this is not a book to binge read at all. It’s one where character development is key and Rose is fantastic at peeling back the layers of the main characters. It’s also the first in a new series where any good author will spend some time diving into their leads, so while understandable, it’s a dense one. I knew this going in and was prepared, so I settled in and savored the read, I want to make sure you also know this before thinking this is a one sitting read or one that you’ll fly through.
While it is long and the characters are incredibly well drawn, it is still incredibly tense and there is plenty of excitement. Daisy is in danger almost from page one and there was a fantastic sense of dread that steadily increased as the story progressed. Between the action there was a relationship burgeoning Daisy and Gideon and their chemistry was HOT, so basically there was always something exciting going on!
If you’re already a fan of romantic suspense then definitely check this out, and if you’re a little wary like me, this is an excellent place to start. Trust me, it’s still very dark with a creepy serial killer on the loose and even he was interesting and well drawn! There’s also a religious cult, which fascinates me, something for everyone here.
Say You’re Sorry in three words: Tense, Compelling and Dark.
February 15, 2019
Daisy Dawson and FBI Agent Gideon Reynolds connect when she’s attacked, and she wrenches off a locket from the man. Gideon is called in after his friend tells him of the engraving that appears on the locket that connects to Gideon’s horrid past. Being raised in a cult was a nightmare that he and his younger sister barely escaped, and he’s made it his mission to track down the cult to bring the members to justice and free any other’s like him and his sister that are at the mercy of this awful group.
Daisy’s attacker isn’t done with her because he’s afraid she can identify him, and so even though she managed to get away, she’s not out of the woods. Thankfully, Daisy is a smart cookie and doesn’t balk at Gideon’s insistence that he stick with her or by the overprotective Sokolov clan, who are like family to her. No TSTL moments from this lady and I was so glad of it!
Daisy and Gideon have an instant attraction, that develops into a steamy affair. That is when someone’s not actively trying to murder them!
This was a high tension read I was on the edge of my seat every time Daisy or Gideon were in this madman’s crosshairs, or when another poor individual had the unfortunate luck to cross paths with this psycho killer!
This was a long book, 624 pages, and it took me several days to get through it, partly because I just didn’t have a whole lot of time to read. But it was a page turner every time I picked it up, so if I had a nice chunk of time, I could’ve probably breezed through some of it. I will say that I don’t like having the killer’s POV included in a story. I don’t like being in their twisted head, and I like more mystery to the killer’s identity, so I skimmed most of his bits.
I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed Say You’re Sorry, and I look forward to the coming stories, because I really liked this bunch of characters! The groundwork has been laid for a couple more romances. I’m pretty sure we’ll get one focused on Rafe Sokolov, and the other I think was hinted at, so I’ll have to wait and see.
A copy was kindly provided by Berkley in exchange for an honest review.
Daisy’s attacker isn’t done with her because he’s afraid she can identify him, and so even though she managed to get away, she’s not out of the woods. Thankfully, Daisy is a smart cookie and doesn’t balk at Gideon’s insistence that he stick with her or by the overprotective Sokolov clan, who are like family to her. No TSTL moments from this lady and I was so glad of it!
Daisy and Gideon have an instant attraction, that develops into a steamy affair. That is when someone’s not actively trying to murder them!
This was a high tension read I was on the edge of my seat every time Daisy or Gideon were in this madman’s crosshairs, or when another poor individual had the unfortunate luck to cross paths with this psycho killer!
This was a long book, 624 pages, and it took me several days to get through it, partly because I just didn’t have a whole lot of time to read. But it was a page turner every time I picked it up, so if I had a nice chunk of time, I could’ve probably breezed through some of it. I will say that I don’t like having the killer’s POV included in a story. I don’t like being in their twisted head, and I like more mystery to the killer’s identity, so I skimmed most of his bits.
I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed Say You’re Sorry, and I look forward to the coming stories, because I really liked this bunch of characters! The groundwork has been laid for a couple more romances. I’m pretty sure we’ll get one focused on Rafe Sokolov, and the other I think was hinted at, so I’ll have to wait and see.
A copy was kindly provided by Berkley in exchange for an honest review.
December 20, 2018
Wow crazy story with loads of gruesome details. But really good! 4.5 Stars
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This book had me wound up for two days straight. No, it doesn’t normally take me that long to read a book, but this story is quite a bit longer than normal novel in the same genre. Plus it was darn good!
So completely different, the story is about a serial killer and the hunt to catch him while he’s on the hunt for the one that got away.
The story has a lot of psychological twists and two seemingly separate plots that intertwine and really keep the story active, innovative, and completely engaging. I had difficulty actually putting the book down when I had to.
I also thoroughly enjoyed the addition of the romantic factor in this book. It definitely added another level of interest. Gideon was crafted to be a deep, damaged, yet amazing person and he was perfectly matched with Daisy. Great heat level and I loved their immediate connection and deep understanding of each other.
This book does have a lot of triggers. As I mentioned it is about the hunt for a serial killer therefore there is a lot of raw, gory details that can be over-the-top for some people. However, Miss Daisy is definitely a little bad ass. She brings in a lot of lightness into the heavy theme as does Gideon.
This book is intense, high action, and fast paced throughout! I love the high level of detail and all of the twists and turns; intermingling of people and places. Rose clearly dedicated herself to this book and the creation of remarkable characters and an inventive, albeit creepy, scary theme.
This is definitely one you will need to make time for so that you can submerge yourself into the world of FBI, cop and crime fiction. Loved this book!
* copy received for review consideration
full review - https://amidlifewife.com/say-youre-so...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This book had me wound up for two days straight. No, it doesn’t normally take me that long to read a book, but this story is quite a bit longer than normal novel in the same genre. Plus it was darn good!
So completely different, the story is about a serial killer and the hunt to catch him while he’s on the hunt for the one that got away.
The story has a lot of psychological twists and two seemingly separate plots that intertwine and really keep the story active, innovative, and completely engaging. I had difficulty actually putting the book down when I had to.
I also thoroughly enjoyed the addition of the romantic factor in this book. It definitely added another level of interest. Gideon was crafted to be a deep, damaged, yet amazing person and he was perfectly matched with Daisy. Great heat level and I loved their immediate connection and deep understanding of each other.
This book does have a lot of triggers. As I mentioned it is about the hunt for a serial killer therefore there is a lot of raw, gory details that can be over-the-top for some people. However, Miss Daisy is definitely a little bad ass. She brings in a lot of lightness into the heavy theme as does Gideon.
This book is intense, high action, and fast paced throughout! I love the high level of detail and all of the twists and turns; intermingling of people and places. Rose clearly dedicated herself to this book and the creation of remarkable characters and an inventive, albeit creepy, scary theme.
This is definitely one you will need to make time for so that you can submerge yourself into the world of FBI, cop and crime fiction. Loved this book!
* copy received for review consideration
full review - https://amidlifewife.com/say-youre-so...
February 20, 2019
I didn't enjoy this book at all. When compared to some of KR's other Romantic Suspense books, this really falls short. For starters, it drags on and on, there doesn't seem to be a point to half the things that happen in the middle of the book.
Then on top of that, the H comes off as weak and useless, especially for an FBI agent. Here's a taste of the kind of person he is:
"“Yes, he sexually assaulted me. But not with his . . .” Zandra grimaced. “. . . penis. He had . . . implements. Some sex toys. Some were other things. They’re in one of the drawers. You’ll find them when you search. I got the impression that he couldn’t get it up for me. He tried. He really tried.” Her eyes narrowed. “He even called me Daisy while he tried, but he kept losing his erection, so he had to use the stuff in the drawer.” She glanced at Daisy. “Sorry.”
Daisy had visibly cringed. “No, no. Don’t apologize. I didn’t realize . . .”
Gideon fought to contain his fury, conscious of Molina’s steady regard. The man had fantasized about raping Daisy. But he didn’t. Because she fought him off.”
After another woman is raped and nearly killed, our H is angry because the rapist thought of the h while raping another women. NOT BECAUSE HE RAPED THAT WOMAN. What a shit human being.
For someone who's determined to find out the truth and bring people to justice. the H is remarkably useless. he's had 17 years to look for the cult that hurt his family and destroyed his childhood but he doesn't bother to tell anyone information that could help find the Cult. For a Law enforcement official, he's really stupid when it comes to the law. He's determined to keep his secrets about killing a man in self defense because he thinks people will call him a murderer and not listen to him.
A) he killed the man when he was a 13 year old boy
B) it was self defense
C) the man's body was never found
so there's no valid reason for the H to be so stupid.
It's also important to know that because he never told anyone about the Cult or followed up about it with the proper people, his mother and sister were tortured and harmed for years.
Then the H has the balls to feel sad that his sister wants nothing to do with him.
As if that wasn't enough, the h is too good to be true- she figures things out in 5 seconds when the H and his FBI team haven't been able to figure it out for 17 years. She's smart and quirky and interesting and knows how to shoot really well, plus the H opened up about his past within 3 seconds of meeting her.
I smell a Manic Pixie Dream Girl/Mary-Sue.
Aside from the irritating main characters, the side cast is also unbearable. The bad guy is kind to small animals and children but he brutally tortures and murders women. His inner monologue is too disjointed to be truly scary.
The writing is repetitive- I can't remember how many times KR tells the reader that the bad guy won't get caught because he left no evidence except in one case. Or that the h was holding/petting her rat-dog until it "went bald".
Don't waste your time reading this book.
Then on top of that, the H comes off as weak and useless, especially for an FBI agent. Here's a taste of the kind of person he is:
"“Yes, he sexually assaulted me. But not with his . . .” Zandra grimaced. “. . . penis. He had . . . implements. Some sex toys. Some were other things. They’re in one of the drawers. You’ll find them when you search. I got the impression that he couldn’t get it up for me. He tried. He really tried.” Her eyes narrowed. “He even called me Daisy while he tried, but he kept losing his erection, so he had to use the stuff in the drawer.” She glanced at Daisy. “Sorry.”
Daisy had visibly cringed. “No, no. Don’t apologize. I didn’t realize . . .”
Gideon fought to contain his fury, conscious of Molina’s steady regard. The man had fantasized about raping Daisy. But he didn’t. Because she fought him off.”
After another woman is raped and nearly killed, our H is angry because the rapist thought of the h while raping another women. NOT BECAUSE HE RAPED THAT WOMAN. What a shit human being.
For someone who's determined to find out the truth and bring people to justice. the H is remarkably useless. he's had 17 years to look for the cult that hurt his family and destroyed his childhood but he doesn't bother to tell anyone information that could help find the Cult. For a Law enforcement official, he's really stupid when it comes to the law. He's determined to keep his secrets about killing a man in self defense because he thinks people will call him a murderer and not listen to him.
A) he killed the man when he was a 13 year old boy
B) it was self defense
C) the man's body was never found
so there's no valid reason for the H to be so stupid.
It's also important to know that because he never told anyone about the Cult or followed up about it with the proper people, his mother and sister were tortured and harmed for years.
Then the H has the balls to feel sad that his sister wants nothing to do with him.
As if that wasn't enough, the h is too good to be true- she figures things out in 5 seconds when the H and his FBI team haven't been able to figure it out for 17 years. She's smart and quirky and interesting and knows how to shoot really well, plus the H opened up about his past within 3 seconds of meeting her.
I smell a Manic Pixie Dream Girl/Mary-Sue.
Aside from the irritating main characters, the side cast is also unbearable. The bad guy is kind to small animals and children but he brutally tortures and murders women. His inner monologue is too disjointed to be truly scary.
The writing is repetitive- I can't remember how many times KR tells the reader that the bad guy won't get caught because he left no evidence except in one case. Or that the h was holding/petting her rat-dog until it "went bald".
Don't waste your time reading this book.
June 9, 2019
This book is a real thriller. I could not put it down. It is an excellent start Ms. Rose's new series. I am looking forward to the next book! Fans of Karen Rose's novels will truly enjoy it. I am so happy that I joined her mailing list and received (and read) her free short story prior to reading "Say You're Sorry".
I would highly recommend this book, and recommend signing up for Karen Rose's mailing list.
I would highly recommend this book, and recommend signing up for Karen Rose's mailing list.
July 10, 2019
Oh God. Oh God no. Just no.
I... just hated it. I hated it so much that if we created a drinking game in which we drink a shot everytime I rolled my eyes, we'd be long dead by now.
This book is way too long. The whole plot could have been solved in half the time but it just went on and on and on. Part of the reason why it was so long -and this is just my guess- is that everything was so *adjetive* something. They were not sorry, they were *so damn* sorry. They were not sad, they were *so fucking* sad. Look, I'm not someone who covers her ears when she hears a swear word, I really don't mind, but one every sentence is just too much. That's not good writing, that's not "speaking like the characters". That's just having a foul mouth and a shocking lack of resources to express anger.
Now on to the characters.
Let's talk about Daisy. I loathed her. She was soooo perfect. Her voice was sexy, her face was flawless, her character was strong and cool. She was the cool girl Amy Dunn was describing in Gone Girl. She not only is cool, she can also do everybody's job better than them. She does FBI work better than the FBI! The FBI has been looking for clues for nearly two decades, but Daisy can find it in less than two hours because she has a computer and Google.
She is not a good shot, she is the best shooter in all the land. She can shoot a penny from miles away because her father trained her well and at this point I rolled my eyes so much that I almost fell backwards off my chair.
Give. Me. A. Break. No, wait. Give a fucking damn break (because that's how we express anger around here. No other way).
The climax is a whole lot of bs wrapped in way too many pages again. They break procedure, they take the rules and shove them up their asses, they look at every well studied protocol the law enforcement has been implemeting over the course of the years and decide to just ignore it because they know better, and I'm supposed to be rooting for them.
Maybe the end result is impactful and makes for a good book climax, but please don't insult my intelligence trying to make me believe that the FBI would ever consider that a victory. That's one of the most shameful fails a negociator could ever face and Daisy was still expecting a medal or something.
The romance was so cheesy, so rushed, so... bad. Just plain bad. They've known eachother for a week! Yes, a week. WTF.
There's nothing I liked about this book. And the greatest insult of all is that it doesn't even respect the golden rule of crap "if you cannot make it good, at least make it short". It was awful and longer than a sleepless night .
I... just hated it. I hated it so much that if we created a drinking game in which we drink a shot everytime I rolled my eyes, we'd be long dead by now.
This book is way too long. The whole plot could have been solved in half the time but it just went on and on and on. Part of the reason why it was so long -and this is just my guess- is that everything was so *adjetive* something. They were not sorry, they were *so damn* sorry. They were not sad, they were *so fucking* sad. Look, I'm not someone who covers her ears when she hears a swear word, I really don't mind, but one every sentence is just too much. That's not good writing, that's not "speaking like the characters". That's just having a foul mouth and a shocking lack of resources to express anger.
Now on to the characters.
Let's talk about Daisy. I loathed her. She was soooo perfect. Her voice was sexy, her face was flawless, her character was strong and cool. She was the cool girl Amy Dunn was describing in Gone Girl. She not only is cool, she can also do everybody's job better than them. She does FBI work better than the FBI! The FBI has been looking for clues for nearly two decades, but Daisy can find it in less than two hours because she has a computer and Google.
She is not a good shot, she is the best shooter in all the land. She can shoot a penny from miles away because her father trained her well and at this point I rolled my eyes so much that I almost fell backwards off my chair.
Give. Me. A. Break. No, wait. Give a fucking damn break (because that's how we express anger around here. No other way).
The climax is a whole lot of bs wrapped in way too many pages again. They break procedure, they take the rules and shove them up their asses, they look at every well studied protocol the law enforcement has been implemeting over the course of the years and decide to just ignore it because they know better, and I'm supposed to be rooting for them.
Maybe the end result is impactful and makes for a good book climax, but please don't insult my intelligence trying to make me believe that the FBI would ever consider that a victory. That's one of the most shameful fails a negociator could ever face and Daisy was still expecting a medal or something.
The romance was so cheesy, so rushed, so... bad. Just plain bad. They've known eachother for a week! Yes, a week. WTF.
There's nothing I liked about this book. And the greatest insult of all is that it doesn't even respect the golden rule of crap "if you cannot make it good, at least make it short". It was awful and longer than a sleepless night .
February 17, 2019
Check out all of my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
SAY YOU'RE SORRY (Sacramento #1, Romantic Suspense #22) by Karen Rose is an edge-of-your-seat romantic suspense with a hero and heroine who are both damaged and yet extremely strong and a twisted serial killer who is only discovered when he picks the wrong victim. Every page of this dense thrill ride kept me guessing, surprised, tense and turning the pages. I love Karen Rose books and I feel this is the best Karen Rose romantic suspense to date!
Daisy Dawson is the sexy female voice on the morning drive radio show. Daisy involves herself whole-heartedly in her community and events with her emotional support dog, Brutus always in her carry bag. Seven years sober and away from her extreme upbringing on an isolated ranch, Daisy has done her best to live a normal life, until the night she confronts a man following her and her friend from AA.
FBI Special Agent Gideon Reynolds would normally have nothing to do with a local attack, but one of the detectives handling Daisy’s attack recognizes the design on a locket that Daisy ripped from her attacker’s neck. It is the same design that he once had tattooed on his chest. This is the first lead Gideon has to another who may have escaped the cult he was raised in until his escape at age 13.
When Gideon meets Daisy, he is surprised by his reaction to her. He has never disclosed his full past to anyone and yet he has the need to tell it all to Daisy. Daisy and Gideon are immediately thrown into a maelstrom of murders and as much as Gideon protects Daisy, Daisy will surprise Gideon with how prepared she is to face these threats on her own.
Thank goodness this is the first book in this new Sacramento series because I want so MUCH more! There is so much happening on these 640 pages. You have a current serial killer to catch and then you have a secretive, perverted religious cult to learn about and find which will story arc into future books. Gideon and Daisy are absolutely brilliant together. All of the secondary characters are starting to take shape and you want to know all of their secrets, too. This is an amazing start to this series and I am anxiously awaiting more!
Thanks so much to Berkley Publishing Group and Net Galley for allowing me to read this eARC. It was everything I am looking for in a romantic suspense and more.
SAY YOU'RE SORRY (Sacramento #1, Romantic Suspense #22) by Karen Rose is an edge-of-your-seat romantic suspense with a hero and heroine who are both damaged and yet extremely strong and a twisted serial killer who is only discovered when he picks the wrong victim. Every page of this dense thrill ride kept me guessing, surprised, tense and turning the pages. I love Karen Rose books and I feel this is the best Karen Rose romantic suspense to date!
Daisy Dawson is the sexy female voice on the morning drive radio show. Daisy involves herself whole-heartedly in her community and events with her emotional support dog, Brutus always in her carry bag. Seven years sober and away from her extreme upbringing on an isolated ranch, Daisy has done her best to live a normal life, until the night she confronts a man following her and her friend from AA.
FBI Special Agent Gideon Reynolds would normally have nothing to do with a local attack, but one of the detectives handling Daisy’s attack recognizes the design on a locket that Daisy ripped from her attacker’s neck. It is the same design that he once had tattooed on his chest. This is the first lead Gideon has to another who may have escaped the cult he was raised in until his escape at age 13.
When Gideon meets Daisy, he is surprised by his reaction to her. He has never disclosed his full past to anyone and yet he has the need to tell it all to Daisy. Daisy and Gideon are immediately thrown into a maelstrom of murders and as much as Gideon protects Daisy, Daisy will surprise Gideon with how prepared she is to face these threats on her own.
Thank goodness this is the first book in this new Sacramento series because I want so MUCH more! There is so much happening on these 640 pages. You have a current serial killer to catch and then you have a secretive, perverted religious cult to learn about and find which will story arc into future books. Gideon and Daisy are absolutely brilliant together. All of the secondary characters are starting to take shape and you want to know all of their secrets, too. This is an amazing start to this series and I am anxiously awaiting more!
Thanks so much to Berkley Publishing Group and Net Galley for allowing me to read this eARC. It was everything I am looking for in a romantic suspense and more.
February 16, 2019
Say You're Sorry is the first book in the new Sacramento series, and although I am not that fond of reading about romance I found that it was very organic, so I was able to get behind it due to that. There are plenty of twists and turns and non-stop action to keep you enthralled and engaged throughout, and though it's quite lengthy it never feels that way as it's easy to read through it in a fun-filled single sitting. Violence makes up a large part of the plot, so if you're not up for that I would take a pass.
One of the aspects I love most about Rose's books is that all of her characters are strongly developed, flawed and human. However, the reason for not awarding five stars is that there are quite a few characters to keep track of, and although I like to be challenged it was a struggle at the beginning. The story is told from three different perspectives - Daisy's, Gideon's and the killers allowing us to get into the head of each of them. This seems to be the start of a promising series. I look forward to picking up the next instalment.
Many thanks to Headline for an ARC.
You can also find my reviews posted here on my blog.
One of the aspects I love most about Rose's books is that all of her characters are strongly developed, flawed and human. However, the reason for not awarding five stars is that there are quite a few characters to keep track of, and although I like to be challenged it was a struggle at the beginning. The story is told from three different perspectives - Daisy's, Gideon's and the killers allowing us to get into the head of each of them. This seems to be the start of a promising series. I look forward to picking up the next instalment.
Many thanks to Headline for an ARC.
You can also find my reviews posted here on my blog.
March 4, 2019
Publication Date: February 12, 2019
"4 - What doesn't kill you, makes you stronger Stars!"
This is the first book I've read by Karen Rose and I really enjoyed it.
I'm a huge fan of the suspense/thriller/romance genre, in fact, suspense/thriller was one of the only genres I used to read before discovering romance.
This story had all the things I love in a suspense/thriller. It had a great storyline, writing, strong characters and excellent dialogue between the protagonists.
The story was smart and it flowed very well.
I liked how I was engaged in the story right from the start, and it was interesting reading the killer's point of views throughout the story.
Good read!
I'll definitely be reading more of this author's work.
"I voluntarily read a copy of this book which was provided by the publisher via Netgalley."
September 13, 2021
Wow I thought this book would never end and I ended up skimming the last 100 pages. Say your sorry was 614 pages long and became really repetitive especially Conversations between Gabriel and Daisy. I think Daisy was going to “pet her poor dog bald at Least 15 times”.
The best part of this book was the serial killers POV but even then, by the 500th page I just didn’t care enough to see what happens to any of these characters.
The best part of this book was the serial killers POV but even then, by the 500th page I just didn’t care enough to see what happens to any of these characters.
March 6, 2019
Convoluted and over the top with the number of tropes in this book...alcoholism, cult, serial killer who operates throughout the country, dog rescue, child abuse, PTSD, car thefts, disguises, and on and on with highly implausible scenarios. This was my first and last book by this author.
May 22, 2019
FULL REVIEW POSTED 5/22/19
AS PER MY NORM – NO SPOILERS!
Jeepers Creepers! Karen Rose rolls out a new series with Say You’re Sorry — introducing a host of new characters, along with a few honorable mentions from previous books. Using a masterfully-crafted dual plotting scheme, our talented author merges two separate arcs: the case of a psycho-serial killer on the loose with his eyes on our heroine will be solved in this book, and the other introduces a mysterious religious cult with dark undercurrents and a cruel and evil leader who has ties to our hero that will continue on into the next book. Rose is one of the most talented writers of wickedly gruesome crime novels. If the first installment is any indication of what is to come in the Sacramento series, it’s going to be a wild ride. And I’m anxiously looking forward to every minute of this new series!
Murder is never pretty. And this triangular chiller, killer, thriller romantic suspense is downright freakin' ugly. And that’s only the tip of the iceberg in describing this ominous storyline that is a bit hard to read at times. Leaving little to the imagination, it is both terrifying and engrossing. The road to outwitting and unmasking this killer is unnerving and fortified with vividly sinister details. Suffice to say that there are quite a few “Holy Crap” moments.
The dynamic lead duo of Daisy Dawson and Gideon Reynolds are ably supported by a large cast of multi-layered characters. Each character’s voice is distinct and lived-in as the reader gradually connects the threads tying everyone together. I am excited to get to know more about this family/friends mix as this series continues.
It wasn’t difficult at all to connect and adore Daisy, who is a recovering alcoholic with a complicated history – but also a strong and super heroine. You’ll find that our hero, Gideon, isn’t your standard-issue alpha FBI agent. He doesn’t conform to the norm. Truthfully, he’s more of an alpha-beta with a fierce, but tender, protective side and vulnerabilities of his own. Both Daisy and Gideon have a backpack filled with angst and heartbreak. An immediate attraction, between what some may see as an odd couple, quickly builds into a believable and touching relationship that I found quite charming and lovable. For me, they made a perfect imperfect couple.
Readers will be delighted to meet the tiny, but fierce, service dog named Brutus who’s sure to steal your heart. I’m always excited to welcome an animal-critter that adds an extra dose of specialness to the story. And Brutus does a great job.
And another thrill was the reappearance of FBI Agent Tom Hunter, now thirty-years old, and far from that fourteen-year old boy we met in Karen Rose’s first romantic suspense, I>Don’t Tell published in 2003. If you’ve kept up with Rose’s books, you’ll know that he’s the son of Mary Grace Winters, who was the heroine of that book. Running from an abusive husband, she ran right into the arms of Max Hunter. I recommend that you read that first book where you’ll find his backstory – name change and all. It’s not a prerequisite – this current release is a standalone – but you’re missing out on another great read by the talented Ms. Rose should you choose to decline. Readers have been assured by the author that the handsome Agent Tom Hunter will get his own book in the new line-up, and I can hardly wait!
Oh yeah! Let’s not forget that vile and sick serial killer. Definitely dark and twisted and did a lot of dark and twisted things. Definitely a psycho, deranged and demented person who deserved what he got. His cruelties knew no boundaries. Still, when all was and done, I was a shocked that he managed to pull a smidgeon of sympathy from my otherwise cold and unforgiving heart. In a way, I guess I just couldn’t help feeling a little pity for the utterly pathetic life he had lived.
Once again, this author had me from the get-go, entrapping me and keeping me on the edge of my seat and thoroughly transfixed through over 600 pages of baleful aura and tantalizing suspense. Using her expertise in “show, don’t tell” skills, Rose cranks it up and brings her A-game in another shock-inducing and grisly killer-diller story. It’s what we’ve come to expect from her, and she definitely delivers in this first installment.
Get onboard – grab a copy -- and start from the very beginning so you won’t miss out on a single minute of this brand new series. You’ll relish every diabolical turn – it’s bloody amazing!
AS PER MY NORM – NO SPOILERS!
Jeepers Creepers! Karen Rose rolls out a new series with Say You’re Sorry — introducing a host of new characters, along with a few honorable mentions from previous books. Using a masterfully-crafted dual plotting scheme, our talented author merges two separate arcs: the case of a psycho-serial killer on the loose with his eyes on our heroine will be solved in this book, and the other introduces a mysterious religious cult with dark undercurrents and a cruel and evil leader who has ties to our hero that will continue on into the next book. Rose is one of the most talented writers of wickedly gruesome crime novels. If the first installment is any indication of what is to come in the Sacramento series, it’s going to be a wild ride. And I’m anxiously looking forward to every minute of this new series!
Murder is never pretty. And this triangular chiller, killer, thriller romantic suspense is downright freakin' ugly. And that’s only the tip of the iceberg in describing this ominous storyline that is a bit hard to read at times. Leaving little to the imagination, it is both terrifying and engrossing. The road to outwitting and unmasking this killer is unnerving and fortified with vividly sinister details. Suffice to say that there are quite a few “Holy Crap” moments.
The dynamic lead duo of Daisy Dawson and Gideon Reynolds are ably supported by a large cast of multi-layered characters. Each character’s voice is distinct and lived-in as the reader gradually connects the threads tying everyone together. I am excited to get to know more about this family/friends mix as this series continues.
It wasn’t difficult at all to connect and adore Daisy, who is a recovering alcoholic with a complicated history – but also a strong and super heroine. You’ll find that our hero, Gideon, isn’t your standard-issue alpha FBI agent. He doesn’t conform to the norm. Truthfully, he’s more of an alpha-beta with a fierce, but tender, protective side and vulnerabilities of his own. Both Daisy and Gideon have a backpack filled with angst and heartbreak. An immediate attraction, between what some may see as an odd couple, quickly builds into a believable and touching relationship that I found quite charming and lovable. For me, they made a perfect imperfect couple.
Readers will be delighted to meet the tiny, but fierce, service dog named Brutus who’s sure to steal your heart. I’m always excited to welcome an animal-critter that adds an extra dose of specialness to the story. And Brutus does a great job.
And another thrill was the reappearance of FBI Agent Tom Hunter, now thirty-years old, and far from that fourteen-year old boy we met in Karen Rose’s first romantic suspense, I>Don’t Tell published in 2003. If you’ve kept up with Rose’s books, you’ll know that he’s the son of Mary Grace Winters, who was the heroine of that book. Running from an abusive husband, she ran right into the arms of Max Hunter. I recommend that you read that first book where you’ll find his backstory – name change and all. It’s not a prerequisite – this current release is a standalone – but you’re missing out on another great read by the talented Ms. Rose should you choose to decline. Readers have been assured by the author that the handsome Agent Tom Hunter will get his own book in the new line-up, and I can hardly wait!
Oh yeah! Let’s not forget that vile and sick serial killer. Definitely dark and twisted and did a lot of dark and twisted things. Definitely a psycho, deranged and demented person who deserved what he got. His cruelties knew no boundaries. Still, when all was and done, I was a shocked that he managed to pull a smidgeon of sympathy from my otherwise cold and unforgiving heart. In a way, I guess I just couldn’t help feeling a little pity for the utterly pathetic life he had lived.
Once again, this author had me from the get-go, entrapping me and keeping me on the edge of my seat and thoroughly transfixed through over 600 pages of baleful aura and tantalizing suspense. Using her expertise in “show, don’t tell” skills, Rose cranks it up and brings her A-game in another shock-inducing and grisly killer-diller story. It’s what we’ve come to expect from her, and she definitely delivers in this first installment.
Get onboard – grab a copy -- and start from the very beginning so you won’t miss out on a single minute of this brand new series. You’ll relish every diabolical turn – it’s bloody amazing!
February 5, 2019
This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
Review copy was received from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
4.5 hearts
I started reading immediately after finishing Death is Not Enough, the previous book in this Romantic Suspense series . It worked out well as the main character, Daisy is introduced there. I thought I would not like a new city Sacramento. How silly of me not to trust Karen Rose.
Daisy was not my favorite character until I really saw her in Say You're Sorry. She's amazing, so smart and careful and trained. Her restricted childhood is something she shares with an FBI agent, Gideon. He has made efforts to settle things from his past, but until Daisy comes along and looks outside the regular procedural box, he doesn't make as much progress.
Oddly, they fit well together. Gideon is also smart enough to trust her skills and not just blindly default to protect her she's a woman attitude. He still feels it I think but he acknowledges her abilities. This is pretty fast paced and in a few spots I am sure they will die from the serial killer. I felt a little sorry for the criminal, as he has had little for himself ever. But really, Gideon didn't have anything either and he doesn't go torture and kill women.
Every book is great; I highly recommend them. I would start in order or at least within a city. Each book is a new couple, but there are connections between all the books as they all work in some aspect of law enforcement. I love the connections and circle of friends who support each other, and seeing them briefly in future books to get updates on their lives.
Review copy was received from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
4.5 hearts
I started reading immediately after finishing Death is Not Enough, the previous book in this Romantic Suspense series . It worked out well as the main character, Daisy is introduced there. I thought I would not like a new city Sacramento. How silly of me not to trust Karen Rose.
Daisy was not my favorite character until I really saw her in Say You're Sorry. She's amazing, so smart and careful and trained. Her restricted childhood is something she shares with an FBI agent, Gideon. He has made efforts to settle things from his past, but until Daisy comes along and looks outside the regular procedural box, he doesn't make as much progress.
Oddly, they fit well together. Gideon is also smart enough to trust her skills and not just blindly default to protect her she's a woman attitude. He still feels it I think but he acknowledges her abilities. This is pretty fast paced and in a few spots I am sure they will die from the serial killer. I felt a little sorry for the criminal, as he has had little for himself ever. But really, Gideon didn't have anything either and he doesn't go torture and kill women.
Every book is great; I highly recommend them. I would start in order or at least within a city. Each book is a new couple, but there are connections between all the books as they all work in some aspect of law enforcement. I love the connections and circle of friends who support each other, and seeing them briefly in future books to get updates on their lives.
February 16, 2019
Welcome to the Golden State, Karen Rose! I can't wait to read a really good book set in my state of California. "Say You're Sorry" takes full advantage of the scenic area of NoCal and does an excellent job of making the area part of the suspense, which is a steady simmer throughout the book. The romance is two misfits who find each other and is wonderful. My only problem was with Daisy and her constant need for her therapy dog to help control her anxiety. She isn't even 30 and has never worked a conventional job. Her childhood, while different and her teen alcoholism, that's sad, just doesn't rise to the level that would require a canine sober companion. IMHO.
Daisy Dawson has landed in Sacramento, CA and is one of the morning DJs for a local channel. She is taking some time to find out who she is an what she wants in her life after living for years in near isolation and teen alcoholism. She has a surrogate family who loves her and supports her. Daisy and a friend are heading to a diner after their AA meeting when she is attacked and Daisy fights off her attacker, thanks to the self defense tactics her father drilled into her. She came away from the attack with the attackers souvenir of one of his victims and that starts a chain of events.
FBI Special Agent Gideon Reynolds was raised in a cult in Northern California. His mother helped him escape when he was thirteen. When he sees the locket that Daisy grasped from her attacker he knew where it came from and also the woman it had belonged to. Finding the cult has been a backburner project for Gideon for 17 years and now he had a tangible clue to follow which leads him to a serial killer who has his sights set on Daisy as the one who got away.
Daisy Dawson has landed in Sacramento, CA and is one of the morning DJs for a local channel. She is taking some time to find out who she is an what she wants in her life after living for years in near isolation and teen alcoholism. She has a surrogate family who loves her and supports her. Daisy and a friend are heading to a diner after their AA meeting when she is attacked and Daisy fights off her attacker, thanks to the self defense tactics her father drilled into her. She came away from the attack with the attackers souvenir of one of his victims and that starts a chain of events.
FBI Special Agent Gideon Reynolds was raised in a cult in Northern California. His mother helped him escape when he was thirteen. When he sees the locket that Daisy grasped from her attacker he knew where it came from and also the woman it had belonged to. Finding the cult has been a backburner project for Gideon for 17 years and now he had a tangible clue to follow which leads him to a serial killer who has his sights set on Daisy as the one who got away.
February 10, 2019
This was not what I was expecting, but I absolutely loved this book & couldn't put it down. This is NOT (as I expected) something I would characterize as cozy suspense, but rather a full on, serial killer suspense with a strong romance subplot running throughout. I'd describe this as brutal, engrossing, & propulsive - it was a book I was annoyed to have to stop in because I really wanted to know what would happen next. I do think it's about 50-100 pages too long in the front half, but overall, would definitely recommend for lovers of serial killer suspenses (especially ones with a cult backstory) & cannot wait to continue in the series.
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