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Seven of Spades #5
A Chip and a Chair
It's time to lay all the cards on the table.
Detective Levi Abrams and PI Dominic Russo are reunited and more committed to each other than ever, but they can’t truly move forward with their lives until the serial killer who’s been tormenting them is behind bars. When a secret burial site is discovered in the desert with the remains of the Seven of Spades’s earliest victims, that goal finally seems within reach.
But just as the net is tightening, the neo-Nazi militia Utopia launches their master plan with a devastating act of terror that changes the landscape of Las Vegas forever. As Levi and Dominic scramble to prevent the city’s destruction, they’re opposed by treacherous forces that propel them toward catastrophe. In the end, Levi’s fate may rest in the hands of the very killer he’s been hunting.
The race to save Sin City is on, and these players are going for broke. No matter how hopeless things seem, as long as they’re together and they’ve got a chip to play and a chair to sit in, they’re still in the game.
Word 100,000; page 382
Detective Levi Abrams and PI Dominic Russo are reunited and more committed to each other than ever, but they can’t truly move forward with their lives until the serial killer who’s been tormenting them is behind bars. When a secret burial site is discovered in the desert with the remains of the Seven of Spades’s earliest victims, that goal finally seems within reach.
But just as the net is tightening, the neo-Nazi militia Utopia launches their master plan with a devastating act of terror that changes the landscape of Las Vegas forever. As Levi and Dominic scramble to prevent the city’s destruction, they’re opposed by treacherous forces that propel them toward catastrophe. In the end, Levi’s fate may rest in the hands of the very killer he’s been hunting.
The race to save Sin City is on, and these players are going for broke. No matter how hopeless things seem, as long as they’re together and they’ve got a chip to play and a chair to sit in, they’re still in the game.
Word 100,000; page 382
330 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 11, 2019
About the author
Cordelia Kingsbridge
32 books1,252 followersCordelia Kingsbridge has a master's degree in social work from the University of Pittsburgh, but quickly discovered that direct practice in the field was not for her. Having written novels as a hobby throughout graduate school, she decided to turn her focus to writing as a full-time career. Now she explores her fascination with human behavior, motivation, and psychopathology through fiction. Her weaknesses include opposites-attract pairings and snarky banter.
Away from her desk, Cordelia is a fitness fanatic, and can be found strength training, cycling, and practicing Krav Maga. She lives in South Florida but spends most of her time indoors with the air conditioning on full blast!
Away from her desk, Cordelia is a fitness fanatic, and can be found strength training, cycling, and practicing Krav Maga. She lives in South Florida but spends most of her time indoors with the air conditioning on full blast!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 724 reviews
March 26, 2019
3.25 stars
It is me not the book! I wanted to love it a bit more, but....Ugh!
The Good
- The writing as always.
- Levi and Dominic's relationship, finally these two got their shit together and the result was epic.
-Rebel is the best dog ever.
The Rest
-I found the case and the action scenes so long and boring.
-The SoS reveal was anticlimactic and unbelievable. I was so bummed that my guess was right all along. No zing or anything.
I will blame this on all the crime TV shows that i have watched, especially Criminal minds the episode where the reaper was revealed. It was so on point and convincing. I kind of expecting something like that.
My best book in this series will forever be book 1.
It is me not the book! I wanted to love it a bit more, but....Ugh!
The Good
- The writing as always.
- Levi and Dominic's relationship, finally these two got their shit together and the result was epic.
-Rebel is the best dog ever.
The Rest
-I found the case and the action scenes so long and boring.
-The SoS reveal was anticlimactic and unbelievable. I was so bummed that my guess was right all along. No zing or anything.
I will blame this on all the crime TV shows that i have watched, especially Criminal minds the episode where the reaper was revealed. It was so on point and convincing. I kind of expecting something like that.
My best book in this series will forever be book 1.
March 11, 2019
3.5
-loved Dominic and Levi,
-a bit too action packed in the last third( I got a bit bored and started skimming ),
-I already knew who the killer was going in and I'm still not convinced about the believability of it all,
-overall,I've enjoyed the series though.
-loved Dominic and Levi,
-a bit too action packed in the last third( I got a bit bored and started skimming ),
-I already knew who the killer was going in and I'm still not convinced about the believability of it all,
-overall,I've enjoyed the series though.
May 8, 2022
A fitting and wonderful ending to an absolutely gripping series. I ADORED this whole series as a whole, and it dominated my life for two days. I barely stopped to sleep or eat the entire time I was wrapped up in these books. I will say that I think these two behaved toxically with each other, and things wrapped up a little too OTT for me, but this series will always hold a special place in my heart.
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September 17, 2020
September 2020: Audiobook = ***4 - 4.5 Stars***
***********************************************
Original review March 2019:
Short version: Christ on a Cracker!!!
Slightly longer version: perfect ending was perfect!!!
I'm still wowed by the whole series, but this book was one helluva ride.
OTT sometimes? Yes. Umm, did I care? Nope. With a capital N.
I loved every single minute. Oh, and proud-me had its inner self-high-five-moment about being right about the identity of the Seven of Spades from the get-go. Call me silly, but I actually teared up about how everything panned out in the end and what it meant to Levi.
Dom and Levi earned their place on my favorite characters list, threatened to be outstripped by Rebel, though...
I'm already looking forward to a reread of all books to search for more clues, now that I know how it turned out. Highly recommended!
***********************************************
Original review March 2019:
Short version: Christ on a Cracker!!!
Slightly longer version: perfect ending was perfect!!!
I'm still wowed by the whole series, but this book was one helluva ride.
OTT sometimes? Yes. Umm, did I care? Nope. With a capital N.
I loved every single minute. Oh, and proud-me had its inner self-high-five-moment about being right about the identity of the Seven of Spades from the get-go. Call me silly, but I actually teared up about how everything panned out in the end and what it meant to Levi.
Dom and Levi earned their place on my favorite characters list, threatened to be outstripped by Rebel, though...
I'm already looking forward to a reread of all books to search for more clues, now that I know how it turned out. Highly recommended!
April 24, 2025
✨Spoiler Free✨
THIS WAS SO GOOD! 10/10 No Notes. I basically read this was one large 1500 page queer crime thriller, and let's just say that it's lucky I've been on leave from work cause this mother fucker hijacked my life and my sleep schedule.
Going into this final installment I had no idea how they would continue to raise the stakes when they were already so high and no idea how they were going to bring together the plot of the Seven of Spades (cause it's so easy to fumble the landing) but this hit the perfect balance of action, drama and emotions and I am SO SATISFIED WITH EVERY CHOICE.
Levi and Dominic will go down as a favourite couple for me and Rebel is the GOODEST GIRL EVER.
This series deserves so much more hype than it gets. This audiobook experience has been great and Wyatt Baker did a fantastic performance in this and really heightened the reading experience. I am so sad for this series of books to come to an end, I'll definitely come back to this for a reread ❤️❤️
THIS WAS SO GOOD! 10/10 No Notes. I basically read this was one large 1500 page queer crime thriller, and let's just say that it's lucky I've been on leave from work cause this mother fucker hijacked my life and my sleep schedule.
Going into this final installment I had no idea how they would continue to raise the stakes when they were already so high and no idea how they were going to bring together the plot of the Seven of Spades (cause it's so easy to fumble the landing) but this hit the perfect balance of action, drama and emotions and I am SO SATISFIED WITH EVERY CHOICE.
Levi and Dominic will go down as a favourite couple for me and Rebel is the GOODEST GIRL EVER.
This series deserves so much more hype than it gets. This audiobook experience has been great and Wyatt Baker did a fantastic performance in this and really heightened the reading experience. I am so sad for this series of books to come to an end, I'll definitely come back to this for a reread ❤️❤️
March 12, 2019
Alright, I'm just going to go on record and say Kill Game and Trick Roller were my faves of the series, though this is absolutely a fun, action-packed and exciting conclusion to a heart-stopping series.
CK can layer suspense better than Duff Goldman can add layers to a cake, I tell ya!
Her plots twist and turn more than the Titan at Six Flags and that thing pulls 4.5 Gs!
^^^it's the greatest thing since sliced bread. No, for reals.
This conclusion was all sorts of fun and the whole series is not to be missed if you're a fan of mysteries/thrillers/whodunits with a side of romance and some sexy times that'll melt your face clean off your face.
I will miss the hell out of Levi and Dom. I loved how sweet they were to each other in this one.
I'm also going to go on record as saying there needs to be an award for best pet in a book or series. Because Rebel wins all the things! #BestPoochEver She can get directly into my pocket.
I'll undoubtedly reread this series at some point and maybe I'll bump up my rating but for now this didn't surpass the first two for me but I liked it more than 4 but less than 5 stars so I'll just go with four for now.
At any rate, I'm eagerly anticipating whatever CK comes up with next! I'm here for it!
CK can layer suspense better than Duff Goldman can add layers to a cake, I tell ya!
Her plots twist and turn more than the Titan at Six Flags and that thing pulls 4.5 Gs!
^^^it's the greatest thing since sliced bread. No, for reals.
This conclusion was all sorts of fun and the whole series is not to be missed if you're a fan of mysteries/thrillers/whodunits with a side of romance and some sexy times that'll melt your face clean off your face.
I will miss the hell out of Levi and Dom. I loved how sweet they were to each other in this one.
"If my life is going to be defined by anything, I want it to be defined by love. And the most important thing that's ever happened to me is falling in love with you."
I'm also going to go on record as saying there needs to be an award for best pet in a book or series. Because Rebel wins all the things! #BestPoochEver She can get directly into my pocket.
I'll undoubtedly reread this series at some point and maybe I'll bump up my rating but for now this didn't surpass the first two for me but I liked it more than 4 but less than 5 stars so I'll just go with four for now.
At any rate, I'm eagerly anticipating whatever CK comes up with next! I'm here for it!
March 17, 2019
3.5 Stars
Well, I don’t know what to say! First of all, I really enjoyed Levi & Dominic’s relationship more in this book. They finally learned to communicate with each other properly and could fully trust each other. And the SOS’s identity was a surprise for me, I had someone else in my mind and so glad I was wrong. But I didn’t like them Another thing is considering it was an action-packed I still got a bit bored! Told mostly in dual POV, 3rd person. It’s the fifth (and I think the last) installment in the "Seven of Spades" series and should be read in order. All in all, it was a good series and hope you enjoy it as well!
Well, I don’t know what to say! First of all, I really enjoyed Levi & Dominic’s relationship more in this book. They finally learned to communicate with each other properly and could fully trust each other. And the SOS’s identity was a surprise for me, I had someone else in my mind and so glad I was wrong. But I didn’t like them Another thing is considering it was an action-packed I still got a bit bored! Told mostly in dual POV, 3rd person. It’s the fifth (and I think the last) installment in the "Seven of Spades" series and should be read in order. All in all, it was a good series and hope you enjoy it as well!
March 10, 2019
No spoilers here. Just a strong recommendation. If you haven't read this series yet, pick up book 1 asap.
That. Was. Brilliant.
Standing O for Ms. Cordelia Kingsbridge! 👏👏👏👏👏
That. Was. Brilliant.
Standing O for Ms. Cordelia Kingsbridge! 👏👏👏👏👏
March 14, 2019
Absolutely awesome series, though this book was not my favorite out of the 5. I was a bit disappointed by the fact that my (personal) suspect turned out to be the killer... Normally I would have been overjoyed about being right, but in this case..not so much. It also got more and more unbelievable towards the end...
That said this is still a great series and I will write a review as soon as I have processed my thought a bit...and slept for a week. I have some catching up to do ;)
That said this is still a great series and I will write a review as soon as I have processed my thought a bit...and slept for a week. I have some catching up to do ;)
December 3, 2023
4.5***** boom-ing stars ♠︎
WHAT A FREAKING END! No joking - this book was mayhem. Total chaos, riot, havoc and carnage. I don’t even know what to say.
In the end the true identity of the Seven of Spades didn’t come as a surprise to me. But I have to admit, I didn’t figure it out on my own accord. I remember months ago that I’ve read the persons name in one of the books reviews. But I was also sure I read that the person who wrote that review stated that they were mistaken. Well at least it was what I remembered reading but I also kept side-eying that character. *lolll
This series was a wild ride that got wilder with each book. If you like a good mystery, an intense romance and haven’t read this one yet, go pick it up. I absolutely recommend.
***********
Seven of Spades Series:
Book 1 - Kill Game - 4.5 stars
Book 2 - Trick Roller - 4.5 stars
Book 3 - Cash Plays - 4.75 stars
Book 4 - One-Eyed Royals - 4.5 stars
Book 5 - A Chip and a Chair - 4.5 stars
WHAT A FREAKING END! No joking - this book was mayhem. Total chaos, riot, havoc and carnage. I don’t even know what to say.
“This is insane. Call […] off, for God’s sake!”
Levi spread his hands. “What about the past year makes you think I have any control over what the Seven of Spades does?”
In the end the true identity of the Seven of Spades didn’t come as a surprise to me. But I have to admit, I didn’t figure it out on my own accord. I remember months ago that I’ve read the persons name in one of the books reviews. But I was also sure I read that the person who wrote that review stated that they were mistaken. Well at least it was what I remembered reading but I also kept side-eying that character. *lolll
This series was a wild ride that got wilder with each book. If you like a good mystery, an intense romance and haven’t read this one yet, go pick it up. I absolutely recommend.
***********
Seven of Spades Series:
Book 1 - Kill Game - 4.5 stars
Book 2 - Trick Roller - 4.5 stars
Book 3 - Cash Plays - 4.75 stars
Book 4 - One-Eyed Royals - 4.5 stars
Book 5 - A Chip and a Chair - 4.5 stars
July 7, 2024
Reread July 2024
What a fabulous reread this was! It was great fun going through the series, this time knowing who the SOS is. And finding a hint here or there to their identity.
However, I agree with many other readers that this wasn't my favourite in the series, a. for the reasons stated below and b. for the much extended action scenes throughout the book.
And I'm still pretty underwhelmed by who the SOS turns out to be because it seems so very implausible. You really have to suspend belief for that one and quite a few other things.
None of that takes away from Levi and Dominic being one of my most favourite couples ever. Excellent characterisation, personal- and relationship development.
Highly recommended.
original review
I did go into this with quite a bit of trepidation.
After the brilliantly angsty book 4 and all the threats the Seven of Spades made against Levi and pretty much the whole of LA, I was seriously worried about what might happen, particularly to Levi and Dom! And I was right to expect some pretty nasty stuff! Throw the actions and plans of the extremist group Utopia into the plot pot, and you get a pretty explosive story-line! (like literally...)
However, it was an absolute joy to finally see Levi and Dominic happy and committed. All the relationship trauma they went through made them realise how much they love each other and it made them stronger. Those tender moments between them, plus the undeniably hot sex has always made me swoon, and it certainly did here!
I loved how they tackle their problems together now, how Dom is learning to cope with his addiction and how Levi has some major revelations about what he wants from his life by the end of the book. Sigh-worthy, considering where these two started from.
So what about the Seven of Spades then, you will ask!?
The rumours and speculations who it might be were out there, and I think most of us had one clear suspect in their mind. However, when the revelation came and we did find out, it was not so much the who, that shocked me, but what followed after that.
Because events take a dramatic turn and as a result, things happen that none of us could either foresee nor predict. Cornelia Kingsbridge certainly massively surprised me here!
The thing is, although she does a real good job explaining why events happen the way they do, I simply didn't feel 100% comfortable with it. (I am talking about the stuff that goes on between 65 and 85% or so). Somehow it made me cringe inside, and I am not talking about the action-thriller, James-Bond-type 'warfare', but what goes on with the Seven of Spades.
I do wonder if Cordelia Kingsbridge was trying to show that they are 'not all bad' (Argh, and this is what makes me so uneasy...), but a multi-layered person with a moral compass in all shades between white, grey and the dark black?
But here is the issue that's really been niggling me.
I have twisted and turned this over in my head virtually non-stop since I finished. I have tried to look at it from various angles and taken what the author offers us as an explanation totally on board.
But, knowing who the Seven of Spades is, I find it a bit difficult to believe that they could have pulled off all those horrible crimes.
Someone living in their vicinity would have noticed something over the course of so many years, surely. There would have been traces, unexplained absences, etc etc. There would have been signs of mental instability, right? Of course, you need to look to see those things, and maybe those who were around the SoS didn't really do that. And a true psychopath is probably not that easy to spot.
Still, this left me somehow tangling.
Saying that, I did think that the end was very fitting, and I was totally happy with that!
And of course big kudos to the author for the last chapter which brought me straight back to swoon-land! As did Rebel, who wins first prize for 'best canine secondary character of the year'!
No doubt, the series as a whole is one of the best I've read. Levi and Dom are deeply complex, superbly written characters, and no doubt, I will read this back to back at one point. It will also be interesting to see what hints the author dropped about the SoS throughout the five books.
This was a satisfying finale to a brilliant series, but with regards to the Seven of Spades maybe marginally anti-climatic.
What a fabulous reread this was! It was great fun going through the series, this time knowing who the SOS is. And finding a hint here or there to their identity.
However, I agree with many other readers that this wasn't my favourite in the series, a. for the reasons stated below and b. for the much extended action scenes throughout the book.
And I'm still pretty underwhelmed by who the SOS turns out to be because it seems so very implausible. You really have to suspend belief for that one and quite a few other things.
None of that takes away from Levi and Dominic being one of my most favourite couples ever. Excellent characterisation, personal- and relationship development.
Highly recommended.
original review
I did go into this with quite a bit of trepidation.
After the brilliantly angsty book 4 and all the threats the Seven of Spades made against Levi and pretty much the whole of LA, I was seriously worried about what might happen, particularly to Levi and Dom! And I was right to expect some pretty nasty stuff! Throw the actions and plans of the extremist group Utopia into the plot pot, and you get a pretty explosive story-line! (like literally...)
However, it was an absolute joy to finally see Levi and Dominic happy and committed. All the relationship trauma they went through made them realise how much they love each other and it made them stronger. Those tender moments between them, plus the undeniably hot sex has always made me swoon, and it certainly did here!
I loved how they tackle their problems together now, how Dom is learning to cope with his addiction and how Levi has some major revelations about what he wants from his life by the end of the book. Sigh-worthy, considering where these two started from.
So what about the Seven of Spades then, you will ask!?
The rumours and speculations who it might be were out there, and I think most of us had one clear suspect in their mind. However, when the revelation came and we did find out, it was not so much the who, that shocked me, but what followed after that.
Because events take a dramatic turn and as a result, things happen that none of us could either foresee nor predict. Cornelia Kingsbridge certainly massively surprised me here!
The thing is, although she does a real good job explaining why events happen the way they do, I simply didn't feel 100% comfortable with it. (I am talking about the stuff that goes on between 65 and 85% or so). Somehow it made me cringe inside, and I am not talking about the action-thriller, James-Bond-type 'warfare', but what goes on with the Seven of Spades.
I do wonder if Cordelia Kingsbridge was trying to show that they are 'not all bad' (Argh, and this is what makes me so uneasy...), but a multi-layered person with a moral compass in all shades between white, grey and the dark black?
But here is the issue that's really been niggling me.
I have twisted and turned this over in my head virtually non-stop since I finished. I have tried to look at it from various angles and taken what the author offers us as an explanation totally on board.
But, knowing who the Seven of Spades is, I find it a bit difficult to believe that they could have pulled off all those horrible crimes.
Someone living in their vicinity would have noticed something over the course of so many years, surely. There would have been traces, unexplained absences, etc etc. There would have been signs of mental instability, right? Of course, you need to look to see those things, and maybe those who were around the SoS didn't really do that. And a true psychopath is probably not that easy to spot.
Still, this left me somehow tangling.
Saying that, I did think that the end was very fitting, and I was totally happy with that!
And of course big kudos to the author for the last chapter which brought me straight back to swoon-land! As did Rebel, who wins first prize for 'best canine secondary character of the year'!
No doubt, the series as a whole is one of the best I've read. Levi and Dom are deeply complex, superbly written characters, and no doubt, I will read this back to back at one point. It will also be interesting to see what hints the author dropped about the SoS throughout the five books.
This was a satisfying finale to a brilliant series, but with regards to the Seven of Spades maybe marginally anti-climatic.
March 12, 2019
Wow, I’m… I'm totally speechless.
What. A. Ride!
This is hands down one of the best mystery/crime series (both M/M and non-M/M) I have ever read.
I can’t believe that every, and I mean EVERY question raised in the first 4 books, has been answered, and every little detail has been explained. No questions left unanswered here, folks.
Now THIS is how you do a fucking series finale, authors. Take notes!
This final instalment was so very satisfying and such a brilliant conclusion to an all-around amazing series.
I cannot recommend this series highly enough. It will forever be one of my all-time Top 5 favorite series.
I already miss Levi, Dominic, Rebel, Martine, Leila, Natasha, and every other of these so very well-developed characters. It feels like saying good-bye to real people, and while this is first and foremost an acknowledgment to this author's talent, I always hate feeling like this after I finish a book or series.
HUGE BOOK HANGOVER IS HUGE!
Cordelia Kingsbridge, I thank you and I bow to you.
What. A. Ride!
This is hands down one of the best mystery/crime series (both M/M and non-M/M) I have ever read.
I can’t believe that every, and I mean EVERY question raised in the first 4 books, has been answered, and every little detail has been explained. No questions left unanswered here, folks.
Now THIS is how you do a fucking series finale, authors. Take notes!
This final instalment was so very satisfying and such a brilliant conclusion to an all-around amazing series.
I cannot recommend this series highly enough. It will forever be one of my all-time Top 5 favorite series.
I already miss Levi, Dominic, Rebel, Martine, Leila, Natasha, and every other of these so very well-developed characters. It feels like saying good-bye to real people, and while this is first and foremost an acknowledgment to this author's talent, I always hate feeling like this after I finish a book or series.
HUGE BOOK HANGOVER IS HUGE!
Cordelia Kingsbridge, I thank you and I bow to you.
March 13, 2019
Simply....
Perfect!
Perfect!
July 20, 2023
Remember when I said I had a wild guess and you would laugh at me if you knew? Well, turns out I don’t always love being right.
I’ve read the mixed feelings about this last installment and now I get why. I didn’t dislike it but, as much as I think the author only gave clues for one character to be the villain, it still didn’t make much sense-and this is coming from someone who guessed who they were!
After binge reading the other four books, it took me an absurd amount of time to actually finish this book-I left it hanging half read for over a week. To be honest, I realized it was getting obvious they were going to be the one as you progress in the series, but that doesn’t mean I liked it. That doesn’t mean the author should at least make us wonder whether it was someone else because I didn’t believe in any of the other suspects for even a second. It wasn’t funny to see it coming from book one 😭
It’s not my first time solving a mystery-and I usually love it as long as it doesn’t happen early on-, but this time I thought everything was really convenient. They waited five books-several months-to start searching people related to Levi. I want to think that, if that kind of serial killer happened in real life, the police would put surveillance to catch them every time they go to Levi’s house or interact with him. My mind can’t grasp how much it took them to start investigating in the way I, a normal citizen, would have done it.
As for the romance, was it too much to ask to have more time with them together after everything was solved? I felt this last book was so focused on the thriller part that I didn’t really have time to say goodbye to them. I wished we had a couple more chapters of just them being them.
Overall, I do recommend this series even if it’s bittersweet that this last book was my least favorite installment. I keep telling myself it’s still one of my most highly rated series in terms of my average rating, but for some reason giving 3 stars to the final book is not the same as giving them somewhere in the middle of a series. I can’t stop thinking about how convenient everything was, especially towards the end with the serial killer. I felt the author chose the easy way to deal with them, instead of making a more bittersweet ending-that would have been more realistic and actually more satisfying for the reader, in my opinion.
↬ Seven of Spades:
1. Kill Game: 4.5 stars
2. Trick Roller: 4 stars
3. Cash Plays: 4.75 stars
4. One-Eyed Royals: 4 stars
5. A Chip and a Chair: 3 stars
I’ve read the mixed feelings about this last installment and now I get why. I didn’t dislike it but, as much as I think the author only gave clues for one character to be the villain, it still didn’t make much sense-and this is coming from someone who guessed who they were!
After binge reading the other four books, it took me an absurd amount of time to actually finish this book-I left it hanging half read for over a week. To be honest, I realized it was getting obvious they were going to be the one as you progress in the series, but that doesn’t mean I liked it. That doesn’t mean the author should at least make us wonder whether it was someone else because I didn’t believe in any of the other suspects for even a second. It wasn’t funny to see it coming from book one 😭
It’s not my first time solving a mystery-and I usually love it as long as it doesn’t happen early on-, but this time I thought everything was really convenient. They waited five books-several months-to start searching people related to Levi. I want to think that, if that kind of serial killer happened in real life, the police would put surveillance to catch them every time they go to Levi’s house or interact with him. My mind can’t grasp how much it took them to start investigating in the way I, a normal citizen, would have done it.
As for the romance, was it too much to ask to have more time with them together after everything was solved? I felt this last book was so focused on the thriller part that I didn’t really have time to say goodbye to them. I wished we had a couple more chapters of just them being them.
Overall, I do recommend this series even if it’s bittersweet that this last book was my least favorite installment. I keep telling myself it’s still one of my most highly rated series in terms of my average rating, but for some reason giving 3 stars to the final book is not the same as giving them somewhere in the middle of a series. I can’t stop thinking about how convenient everything was, especially towards the end with the serial killer. I felt the author chose the easy way to deal with them, instead of making a more bittersweet ending-that would have been more realistic and actually more satisfying for the reader, in my opinion.
↬ Seven of Spades:
1. Kill Game: 4.5 stars
2. Trick Roller: 4 stars
3. Cash Plays: 4.75 stars
4. One-Eyed Royals: 4 stars
5. A Chip and a Chair: 3 stars
January 14, 2023
***3.75 rating***
"Ani l’dodi v’dodi li,’” he murmured. “‘I am my beloved’s and my beloved is mine.’ Song of Songs 6:3.”
This review contains some spoilers, read at your own risk if you haven't read the series yet
Well, this was the final book in the series, an ending to a great series. I will miss Dominic and Levi and all the great side characters who had such colorful personalities. The first book in the series had me really hooked, and I couldn't put the book down. That turned into a week of binging on 5 books, lol. Do I regret staying awake late and missing sleep? Nope. Sleep? Who is that? Never heard of her.
But honestly, this was a great series. Dom and Levi were great characters, deeply flawed but very well written. Their romance and chemistry was evident from the first book, and you couldn't help but root for them. It started with lust and sizzling sexual chemistry, but it turned out to be much for Levi and Dom. They were soulmates, and nothing, even a serial killer or a sweet, beautiful man like Stanton, could stand in their way and love. The romance, of course, was anything but perfect. Dom was a recovering gambler who relapsed, and Levi was obsessed with hunting down a serial killer who consumed his thoughts and provoked a much darker and more violent side of him. This was a recipe for disaster and an inevitable breakup. It was why I didn't like book 3 that much; both characters were at their worst and went out of their way to hurt one another. Dom's gambling was his downfall, as any addiction is, and Levi, well, when he was hunting down the Seven of Spades, he was committing violence and fucking Sawyer. I thought the one-night stand with the hotshot douchebag, but later a charming attorney was not needed. He made me doubt his love for Dom; after all, he didn't hesitate to kiss Dom while he was with Stanton. In book 3, Levi was very unlikeable. Levi and Dom thankfully redeemed themselves in book 4, which I enjoyed a lot. I think books 1 and 4 are the best books in this series. There was much angst in the previous book, and the breakup hit both characters very hard. Their reunion was well deserved.
The final book, which is the conclusion to this series, was okay, better than book 3 but not the best. I was slightly disappointed with who SOS turned out to be. It was surprising but still kind of disappointing. Their teaming up with SOS to subdue the wannabe Nazis was kind of cringe and unrealistic. There was way too much action going on in this book which I, at times, skimmed. The death of Jonah was sad, he grew on me, and I was sad to see him die. I didn't really care that SOS died, but I was sad for Levi because he considered SOS a friend. Anyways, I could go on about this series forever. It was a great series, and I loved the ending Dom and Levi got. Their romance in this book was well done. I will definitely remember them and will probably reread this series again sometime in the future.
I will also miss the side characters in this book. Stanton was my favorite. I didn't think Levi deserved him at all, and to be fair, it worked out in favor of everyone because I can't imagine Levi without Dom. Stanton was just such a loveable character, and I will miss him. Then there was Sawyer, who grew on me; I loved his cockiness and arrogance. I kind of wish he had his own series. The female characters in this series were badass. Martine and Leila were exceptionally well-written female characters. I can't really complain; this was a great series. I just didn't expect the identity of SOS to be such a letdown; otherwise, this would have been a 4.5-star rating. Anyways until next time. I highly recommend this series tho if you like MM romance and mystery.
"Ani l’dodi v’dodi li,’” he murmured. “‘I am my beloved’s and my beloved is mine.’ Song of Songs 6:3.”
This review contains some spoilers, read at your own risk if you haven't read the series yet
Well, this was the final book in the series, an ending to a great series. I will miss Dominic and Levi and all the great side characters who had such colorful personalities. The first book in the series had me really hooked, and I couldn't put the book down. That turned into a week of binging on 5 books, lol. Do I regret staying awake late and missing sleep? Nope. Sleep? Who is that? Never heard of her.
But honestly, this was a great series. Dom and Levi were great characters, deeply flawed but very well written. Their romance and chemistry was evident from the first book, and you couldn't help but root for them. It started with lust and sizzling sexual chemistry, but it turned out to be much for Levi and Dom. They were soulmates, and nothing, even a serial killer or a sweet, beautiful man like Stanton, could stand in their way and love. The romance, of course, was anything but perfect. Dom was a recovering gambler who relapsed, and Levi was obsessed with hunting down a serial killer who consumed his thoughts and provoked a much darker and more violent side of him. This was a recipe for disaster and an inevitable breakup. It was why I didn't like book 3 that much; both characters were at their worst and went out of their way to hurt one another. Dom's gambling was his downfall, as any addiction is, and Levi, well, when he was hunting down the Seven of Spades, he was committing violence and fucking Sawyer. I thought the one-night stand with the hotshot douchebag, but later a charming attorney was not needed. He made me doubt his love for Dom; after all, he didn't hesitate to kiss Dom while he was with Stanton. In book 3, Levi was very unlikeable. Levi and Dom thankfully redeemed themselves in book 4, which I enjoyed a lot. I think books 1 and 4 are the best books in this series. There was much angst in the previous book, and the breakup hit both characters very hard. Their reunion was well deserved.
The final book, which is the conclusion to this series, was okay, better than book 3 but not the best. I was slightly disappointed with who SOS turned out to be. It was surprising but still kind of disappointing. Their teaming up with SOS to subdue the wannabe Nazis was kind of cringe and unrealistic. There was way too much action going on in this book which I, at times, skimmed. The death of Jonah was sad, he grew on me, and I was sad to see him die. I didn't really care that SOS died, but I was sad for Levi because he considered SOS a friend. Anyways, I could go on about this series forever. It was a great series, and I loved the ending Dom and Levi got. Their romance in this book was well done. I will definitely remember them and will probably reread this series again sometime in the future.
I will also miss the side characters in this book. Stanton was my favorite. I didn't think Levi deserved him at all, and to be fair, it worked out in favor of everyone because I can't imagine Levi without Dom. Stanton was just such a loveable character, and I will miss him. Then there was Sawyer, who grew on me; I loved his cockiness and arrogance. I kind of wish he had his own series. The female characters in this series were badass. Martine and Leila were exceptionally well-written female characters. I can't really complain; this was a great series. I just didn't expect the identity of SOS to be such a letdown; otherwise, this would have been a 4.5-star rating. Anyways until next time. I highly recommend this series tho if you like MM romance and mystery.
January 25, 2020
I've enjoyed this series immensely ... and, as usual when I become invested in the characters, I'm sorry to see it end. But this will definitely be a series I'll read again. I'm not sure how I feel about the reveal: Levi's reactions were strong but there's something that was missing ... not sure I even know what it was ... just a feeling I have about the second 1/2 of the book being rushed. Maybe that's on me: I didn't want the series to end. The prologue was a bit ... odd ... like there weren't enough sex scenes so one last one had to be put in there ... wasn't needed but hey! I'm just the reader. But don't miss out on this series: it truly is excellent and I waited with baited breath for each novel to come out. Just sorry there's not another!
November 5, 2019
I swear I almost thought we'd get a crazy ass reveal of the Seven of Spades, like 'oh, it was Rosalita, Levi's Mexican cleaning lady who never appeared in any of the books before!!
But no, the final revelation is certainly interesting and unexpected and still something that I would NEVER have figured out.
But I found myself smiling at a certain something in the that might have been a hint. Certainly a bit tongue in cheek ;-)
Anyway, about this book:
It's 99% action, which I don't really care about.
What I also wasn't fond of in this particular book is the fact that SOS is only a side note in the main plot. I found that a bit odd considering the uncovering of the SOS' identity is something I've been curious about since book one.
I did love Dominic and Levi's interactions in this book, though. They certainly are one of the epic couples in mm and they truly deserve their happiness.
I grew quite fond of Dominic and I like how the author never shied away from giving our guys dark sides and unpleasant character traits. I really love that they're humans with issues that they more or less overcome with time.
Though I need to mention that Levi's caffeine addiction remains unresolved and unless Dominic wants to organize an early funeral for the guy, he should finally do something about that....
All in all, a decent ending for a great crime series and a big thanks to Dominic for bringing out the 'size queen' in us all. LOL.
And special thanks to Adam for doing this buddy read with me in person!!
4 stars!
But no, the final revelation is certainly interesting and unexpected and still something that I would NEVER have figured out.
But I found myself smiling at a certain something in the that might have been a hint. Certainly a bit tongue in cheek ;-)
Anyway, about this book:
It's 99% action, which I don't really care about.
What I also wasn't fond of in this particular book is the fact that SOS is only a side note in the main plot. I found that a bit odd considering the uncovering of the SOS' identity is something I've been curious about since book one.
I did love Dominic and Levi's interactions in this book, though. They certainly are one of the epic couples in mm and they truly deserve their happiness.
I grew quite fond of Dominic and I like how the author never shied away from giving our guys dark sides and unpleasant character traits. I really love that they're humans with issues that they more or less overcome with time.
Though I need to mention that Levi's caffeine addiction remains unresolved and unless Dominic wants to organize an early funeral for the guy, he should finally do something about that....
All in all, a decent ending for a great crime series and a big thanks to Dominic for bringing out the 'size queen' in us all. LOL.
And special thanks to Adam for doing this buddy read with me in person!!
4 stars!
March 15, 2019
*4.5 stars*
I had guessed SOS's identity in the first book and I was right. Honestly, I'm surprised that most people didn't suspect the killer sooner. Still, the moment of the revelation was magnificent, especially as far as the narrative structure is concerned. Absolutely brilliant.
The romance was very satisfying for me, same goes for the HEA. I still think that Levi is probably the sexiest MC ever.
My interest dimmed a little bit in the last because it was too action packed for my tastes, which is the reason I'm rounding down.
Brilliant series, amazing writing, recommended for all MM readers.
I had guessed SOS's identity in the first book and I was right. Honestly, I'm surprised that most people didn't suspect the killer sooner. Still, the moment of the revelation was magnificent, especially as far as the narrative structure is concerned. Absolutely brilliant.
The romance was very satisfying for me, same goes for the HEA. I still think that Levi is probably the sexiest MC ever.
My interest dimmed a little bit in the last because it was too action packed for my tastes, which is the reason I'm rounding down.
Brilliant series, amazing writing, recommended for all MM readers.
January 14, 2025
Lo único satisfactorio es que al final tenías la razón con tu principal sospechoso.
2.5 en realidad
He llegado al final de esta saga que poco a poco se me fue haciendo cuesta arriba.
Como lector resulta cansino y aburrido seguir una "trama" que se sostiene por un asesino serial justiciero que solo tiene como víctimas a puros culpables de delitos mayores y/o menores... y que no se desvele su cara sino hasta el último libro (de los cinco que hay).
Y eso, que tampoco es que sea muy sorprendente cuando ya te esperas que puede ser cualquier compañero de trabajo. Es cuestión de acertar y ya. Yo tuve dos caminos y dos sospechosxs desde un inicio y fue unx de ellxs. No iba mal encaminado, fue un 50/50 y acerté.
Lo bueno es que sí supo hacer muy complejos a sus personajes principales dentro de este thriller/crimen/misterio. Sobre todo a Dominic, creo que la autora maneja muy bien todo el tema de la adicción al juego, su posterior terapia y compañía tanto profesional como personal y todas las maniobras que hace por sí solo para intentar mantenerse limpio hasta el final.
Pero eso, en la saga hay momentos buenos y hay momentos planos y mortalmente aburridos. En cada libro hay muchísimas subtramas que pudieron quitarse y otras claramente dejarse. Así se hubiera pensado en un solo libro largo o al menos una trilogía, pero cinco es demasiado exagerado.
2.5 en realidad
He llegado al final de esta saga que poco a poco se me fue haciendo cuesta arriba.
Como lector resulta cansino y aburrido seguir una "trama" que se sostiene por un asesino serial justiciero que solo tiene como víctimas a puros culpables de delitos mayores y/o menores... y que no se desvele su cara sino hasta el último libro (de los cinco que hay).
Y eso, que tampoco es que sea muy sorprendente cuando ya te esperas que puede ser cualquier compañero de trabajo. Es cuestión de acertar y ya. Yo tuve dos caminos y dos sospechosxs desde un inicio y fue unx de ellxs. No iba mal encaminado, fue un 50/50 y acerté.
Lo bueno es que sí supo hacer muy complejos a sus personajes principales dentro de este thriller/crimen/misterio. Sobre todo a Dominic, creo que la autora maneja muy bien todo el tema de la adicción al juego, su posterior terapia y compañía tanto profesional como personal y todas las maniobras que hace por sí solo para intentar mantenerse limpio hasta el final.
Pero eso, en la saga hay momentos buenos y hay momentos planos y mortalmente aburridos. En cada libro hay muchísimas subtramas que pudieron quitarse y otras claramente dejarse. Así se hubiera pensado en un solo libro largo o al menos una trilogía, pero cinco es demasiado exagerado.
![Profile Image for moonlight ☾ [semi-hiatus].](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/users/1779381768i/37448930._UX200_CR0,0,200,200_.jpg)
May 28, 2022
4.5 stars ☆
"Even during the worst year of my life, you found ways to make me smile and laugh. You've seen me at my worst, and you didn't flinch. You give me strength and courage and joy, and that's why I'm not afraid to go back to Vegas. There's nothing I can't face if we're together. There's no pain that's more powerful than my love for you."
i'm gonna miss Dom, Levi, Rebel, Sawyer, Rohan, Stanton (AND CALEB SPIN OFF? 👀), Martine, Leila... and just everyone in this series tbh. 🥺
i'm not sure how to feel about the killer reveal?? maybe i'm just slow, but i wasn't expecting .
overall, i adored this series and had such a fun time reading it bc of the characters. DomLevi owns my heart. <3
p.s. SAWYER DESERVES HIS OWN BOOK, PLEASE.
"Even during the worst year of my life, you found ways to make me smile and laugh. You've seen me at my worst, and you didn't flinch. You give me strength and courage and joy, and that's why I'm not afraid to go back to Vegas. There's nothing I can't face if we're together. There's no pain that's more powerful than my love for you."
i'm gonna miss Dom, Levi, Rebel, Sawyer, Rohan, Stanton (AND CALEB SPIN OFF? 👀), Martine, Leila... and just everyone in this series tbh. 🥺
i'm not sure how to feel about the killer reveal?? maybe i'm just slow, but i wasn't expecting .
overall, i adored this series and had such a fun time reading it bc of the characters. DomLevi owns my heart. <3
p.s. SAWYER DESERVES HIS OWN BOOK, PLEASE.
March 13, 2019
3.5 stars
While this was definitely a very engaging series that had me hooked from the start, I had a hard time with the previous book and I was somewhat disappointed in this final installment.
I liked this more than the angsty mess that was book 4, but I can’t say I was completely on board with the revelation of the Seven of Spades killer. I kind of suspected, but the way it was revealed and what happened after (spoiler doesn’t reveal the killer)(), no, just no.
When I read 5 books about a serial killer I want them to be caught, I want them to be creepy, evil, depraved. I didn’t want what we got. Now it seemed as if the killer ‘wasn’t so bad’.
The writing in this series is top notch, and even though I had a lot of issues with Levi and Dominic and I wasn’t even sure I liked them at times, I couldn’t stop reading about them. That is some seriously talented writing there.
So while this was an addictive series, and I did enjoy the first 3 books, it got stupidly angsty in the 4th book, and the killer reveal wasn’t all that in book 5. But still, a very good series.
While this was definitely a very engaging series that had me hooked from the start, I had a hard time with the previous book and I was somewhat disappointed in this final installment.
I liked this more than the angsty mess that was book 4, but I can’t say I was completely on board with the revelation of the Seven of Spades killer. I kind of suspected, but the way it was revealed and what happened after (spoiler doesn’t reveal the killer)(), no, just no.
When I read 5 books about a serial killer I want them to be caught, I want them to be creepy, evil, depraved. I didn’t want what we got. Now it seemed as if the killer ‘wasn’t so bad’.
The writing in this series is top notch, and even though I had a lot of issues with Levi and Dominic and I wasn’t even sure I liked them at times, I couldn’t stop reading about them. That is some seriously talented writing there.
So while this was an addictive series, and I did enjoy the first 3 books, it got stupidly angsty in the 4th book, and the killer reveal wasn’t all that in book 5. But still, a very good series.
July 3, 2024
Seven of Spades would make a fantastic movie! There are so many action sequences, seeing the story unfold on the big screen would be a wild ride.
Levi and Dom are complex, compelling characters with real human flaws. The secondary characters - some likable, some not - are equally well developed and add dynamic layers to an already thrilling story.
However, I was disappointed in the series finale, mostly because the identity of the serial killer is utterly unbelievable. I had this person in mind as a suspect but kept dismissing them because no way could they have committed the murders as described.
WARNING: BIG SPOILER IN TAGS
That being said, if you like murder mysteries, don't even think about skipping this series. It's an immensely enjoyable, edge-of-your-seat, unputdownable read.
ETA: Even though the identity of the killer is far-fetched, the emotional exploration of vigilante justice is brilliant.
The Seven of Spades targeted the worst of humanity - rapists, pedophiles, human traffickers, white supremacists - because they didn't trust that by-the-book justice was or would be served. And they're not wrong.
Case in point: Brock Turner was sentenced to six months in jail, of which he served only three because the judge thought a longer sentence "would have a severe impact on him.” Never mind the impact on the woman he brutally raped.
The public, including members of law enforcement, was largely sympathetic to Seven of Spades' cause for this reason. I was too. They were ridding the world of evil.
Levi didn't see it that way though. He didn't think one person had the right to play judge, jury, and executioner. Why did the Seven of Spades get to decide who lived and who died?
Topics of moral ambiguity present a fascinating philosophical quandary that Kingsbridge didn't shy away from. The Seven of Spades was not an unsympathetic character, and that's part of what makes this series so fascinating.
Levi and Dom are complex, compelling characters with real human flaws. The secondary characters - some likable, some not - are equally well developed and add dynamic layers to an already thrilling story.
However, I was disappointed in the series finale, mostly because the identity of the serial killer is utterly unbelievable. I had this person in mind as a suspect but kept dismissing them because no way could they have committed the murders as described.
WARNING: BIG SPOILER IN TAGS
That being said, if you like murder mysteries, don't even think about skipping this series. It's an immensely enjoyable, edge-of-your-seat, unputdownable read.
ETA: Even though the identity of the killer is far-fetched, the emotional exploration of vigilante justice is brilliant.
The Seven of Spades targeted the worst of humanity - rapists, pedophiles, human traffickers, white supremacists - because they didn't trust that by-the-book justice was or would be served. And they're not wrong.
Case in point: Brock Turner was sentenced to six months in jail, of which he served only three because the judge thought a longer sentence "would have a severe impact on him.” Never mind the impact on the woman he brutally raped.
The public, including members of law enforcement, was largely sympathetic to Seven of Spades' cause for this reason. I was too. They were ridding the world of evil.
Levi didn't see it that way though. He didn't think one person had the right to play judge, jury, and executioner. Why did the Seven of Spades get to decide who lived and who died?
Topics of moral ambiguity present a fascinating philosophical quandary that Kingsbridge didn't shy away from. The Seven of Spades was not an unsympathetic character, and that's part of what makes this series so fascinating.
March 22, 2026
This was SO SO SOO GOOODDDDDDDD! Non-stop action and that reveal????????? I had NO CLUE🤯
Dom and Levi 💓💓💓💓💓 I'm gonna miss them 🤧
Dom and Levi 💓💓💓💓💓 I'm gonna miss them 🤧
March 25, 2019
4.5 Stars
We finally know who the Seven of Spades is. And by "we", I mean those of us who have finished the series (or, I suppose, if you've read spoilers, but I'm going to stay spoiler-free). Wow, what an amazing and wild ride it was! Now that I know, I'll say this -- I'm not saying. I'm not saying if they are or aren't the person I suspected. However, before all is said and done, you'll probably suspect, even if just a little, nearly everyone in the books.
We get a whole lot of questions answered in A Chip and a Chair. A whole lot. We find out who's been behind the SoS killings, we find out why and how and all the little things that we've been wondering. We see Levi and Dominic really solidify their relationship. They are so in sync, one is like an extension of the other. They are brilliant, and I'm thrilled to have gotten to know them.
This fifth installment of this very intriguing series, took a turn I didn't expect. I can't even tell you a hint of the events that happened, but I didn't see it coming. That last 30% was the most unbelievable part of the series, but I went with it and was entertained by it.
I have to say, I've enjoyed the ride that Cordelia Kingsbridge took us on, through these five books. She's a massively talented writer and I have definitely enjoyed getting lost in her words. I'm both happy and sad that I've come to the end, here. I adore Levi and Dominic, and as happy as I am they really got their happy, here, I'm sad that it's time to say goodbye. I will reread, though. I want to binge read this series to see if there was anything I missed and to visit with my guys, and Rebel, again.
If you've been waiting for the whole series to come out before starting -- read it, now -- and avoid spoilers if you at all can. This series is best experienced in real-time. Just go with it. If you've read the first four books, but haven't started this one, yet, what are you waiting for! Go! Read it now!
I loved the suspense, the romance, the angst, the mystery. A Chip and a Chair, as well as the whole Seven of Spades series, is entertaining, and riveting.
--------------------
Review copy of A Chip and a Chair was generously provided by the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
We finally know who the Seven of Spades is. And by "we", I mean those of us who have finished the series (or, I suppose, if you've read spoilers, but I'm going to stay spoiler-free). Wow, what an amazing and wild ride it was! Now that I know, I'll say this -- I'm not saying. I'm not saying if they are or aren't the person I suspected. However, before all is said and done, you'll probably suspect, even if just a little, nearly everyone in the books.
We get a whole lot of questions answered in A Chip and a Chair. A whole lot. We find out who's been behind the SoS killings, we find out why and how and all the little things that we've been wondering. We see Levi and Dominic really solidify their relationship. They are so in sync, one is like an extension of the other. They are brilliant, and I'm thrilled to have gotten to know them.
This fifth installment of this very intriguing series, took a turn I didn't expect. I can't even tell you a hint of the events that happened, but I didn't see it coming. That last 30% was the most unbelievable part of the series, but I went with it and was entertained by it.
I have to say, I've enjoyed the ride that Cordelia Kingsbridge took us on, through these five books. She's a massively talented writer and I have definitely enjoyed getting lost in her words. I'm both happy and sad that I've come to the end, here. I adore Levi and Dominic, and as happy as I am they really got their happy, here, I'm sad that it's time to say goodbye. I will reread, though. I want to binge read this series to see if there was anything I missed and to visit with my guys, and Rebel, again.
If you've been waiting for the whole series to come out before starting -- read it, now -- and avoid spoilers if you at all can. This series is best experienced in real-time. Just go with it. If you've read the first four books, but haven't started this one, yet, what are you waiting for! Go! Read it now!
I loved the suspense, the romance, the angst, the mystery. A Chip and a Chair, as well as the whole Seven of Spades series, is entertaining, and riveting.
--------------------
Review copy of A Chip and a Chair was generously provided by the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
March 9, 2019
5 Stars! All the Stars!!
I couldn’t put it down. Well done Cordelia Kingsbridge!!
I couldn’t put it down. Well done Cordelia Kingsbridge!!
February 6, 2020
EVERYTHING behind the spoiler tag, is INDEED spoiler. I will hold nothing back. Including the identity of the Seven of Spades. So don't click if you're not prepared
TL;DR - a good book, coming with a new (and even more dangerous) sinister plan against the city of Las Vegas than the crime of SoS, a movie-like reveal of the SoS, but the ending leaves me a little unsatisfied, like "now what?" kind of question.
I still hope that Kingsbridge continues with the universe, maybe with stories featuring Stanton or Sawyer. Because, it will give possibility for readers like myself to get updates from Levi and Dominic :)
TL;DR - a good book, coming with a new (and even more dangerous) sinister plan against the city of Las Vegas than the crime of SoS, a movie-like reveal of the SoS, but the ending leaves me a little unsatisfied, like "now what?" kind of question.
I still hope that Kingsbridge continues with the universe, maybe with stories featuring Stanton or Sawyer. Because, it will give possibility for readers like myself to get updates from Levi and Dominic :)
June 13, 2021
Four books of suspense. Of whodunit. I had a feeling I had hyped this up too much in my head, and I was right.
It was still great. I loved the A-HA moment when the SOS was revealed.
I was looking for a little more "what now" for Levi and Dom at the end.
Overall, still awesome, but not as great as the other books
It was still great. I loved the A-HA moment when the SOS was revealed.
I was looking for a little more "what now" for Levi and Dom at the end.
Overall, still awesome, but not as great as the other books
July 13, 2026
***Re-read June 2020. Nope, still find it inconceivable that one person could've been the monster that is the SoS, and am even more incredulous that was that person. As I said in my review of this story, surely someone must've noticed that he/she kept disappearing all the time? How could they hold down an important job, a family and still do what they did? Whatever...not surprised Cordelia had to take time off after rushing this one through at the end. Hopefully, she'll come back fully recovered and raring to go...***
4.25 stars from me for this slightly disappointing finale, but 5 stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 for the series as a whole...now that I've come down from my reading high and had time to think things over.
No, I will not spoiler who the SoS ♠️ killer is...it ruins the ending for the rest of you. I had absolutely NO clue that that person was responsible 🤯, and I honestly defy anyone else to say that they had actually guessed who it was. This ending was quite far fetched, and would stretch anyone's imagination. I find it incredibly difficult actually to believe that it was him/her, that they had no help whatsoever [other than Carmen on computers of course, oh and speaking of Carmen, what happened to her after it all kicked off at the end??]...bearing in mind that several more [practice] bodies had been found, some of which had been buried for years. I mean, I know that SoS drugged most victims beforehand, but they would still have had to move/drag them about...did they take bodybuilding classes too?? What about all the times that SoS must've gone missing from their job AND left their family to commit these murders and the dramatic scenes they loved setting up?? Surely someone should've noticed and put two and two together??
It has to be said though that for most of this instalment, the SoS plays second fiddle to Utopia, the neo Nazi white supremacist group who seem to be growing exponentially in white, middle/upper class America [and wasn't that a huge shock...not 🙄]. Dominic has several breakthroughs whilst investigating a woman's ex husband, and eventually tells the woman that he will no longer make enquiries into her husband because of her politics. Levi finally uncovers the riddle of the ketamine supply. As usual, everything is happening at a million miles an hour, the action is intense enough to blow your mind and our two MC's still find time to get it together AND eventually live together [💜💜💜 the ending].
Unfortunately I had major issues with the quality of the editing in this one [it was rubbish], and as Cordelia had already informed her Patreon supporters 'there were some unfortunate delays on my publisher’s end in editing A Chip and a Chair, which comes out on March 11. Ultimately, we had to put a 100k-word book through both line and copy edits in about three weeks, which as you can imagine was incredibly stressful and time-consuming.' It's evident [to me anyhoo] that Riptide don't seem to have been able to employ a decent editor since they sacked the creepy Sarah Frantz Lyon [who, for all her other faults was in fact a decent editor].
Goodbye Riptide...it's been fun over the years but you've definitely lost the plot as far as your employment practices are concerned, and I won't be party to your blatant discrimination any longer. That and your less than stellar reaction to the Santino Hassell disaster, although the fact that many of your best-selling authors jumped ship surely should've told you something, but some people never learn it seems...
4.25 stars from me for this slightly disappointing finale, but 5 stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 for the series as a whole...now that I've come down from my reading high and had time to think things over.
No, I will not spoiler who the SoS ♠️ killer is...it ruins the ending for the rest of you. I had absolutely NO clue that that person was responsible 🤯, and I honestly defy anyone else to say that they had actually guessed who it was. This ending was quite far fetched, and would stretch anyone's imagination. I find it incredibly difficult actually to believe that it was him/her, that they had no help whatsoever [other than Carmen on computers of course, oh and speaking of Carmen, what happened to her after it all kicked off at the end??]...bearing in mind that several more [practice] bodies had been found, some of which had been buried for years. I mean, I know that SoS drugged most victims beforehand, but they would still have had to move/drag them about...did they take bodybuilding classes too?? What about all the times that SoS must've gone missing from their job AND left their family to commit these murders and the dramatic scenes they loved setting up?? Surely someone should've noticed and put two and two together??
It has to be said though that for most of this instalment, the SoS plays second fiddle to Utopia, the neo Nazi white supremacist group who seem to be growing exponentially in white, middle/upper class America [and wasn't that a huge shock...not 🙄]. Dominic has several breakthroughs whilst investigating a woman's ex husband, and eventually tells the woman that he will no longer make enquiries into her husband because of her politics. Levi finally uncovers the riddle of the ketamine supply. As usual, everything is happening at a million miles an hour, the action is intense enough to blow your mind and our two MC's still find time to get it together AND eventually live together [💜💜💜 the ending].
Unfortunately I had major issues with the quality of the editing in this one [it was rubbish], and as Cordelia had already informed her Patreon supporters 'there were some unfortunate delays on my publisher’s end in editing A Chip and a Chair, which comes out on March 11. Ultimately, we had to put a 100k-word book through both line and copy edits in about three weeks, which as you can imagine was incredibly stressful and time-consuming.' It's evident [to me anyhoo] that Riptide don't seem to have been able to employ a decent editor since they sacked the creepy Sarah Frantz Lyon [who, for all her other faults was in fact a decent editor].
Goodbye Riptide...it's been fun over the years but you've definitely lost the plot as far as your employment practices are concerned, and I won't be party to your blatant discrimination any longer. That and your less than stellar reaction to the Santino Hassell disaster, although the fact that many of your best-selling authors jumped ship surely should've told you something, but some people never learn it seems...
March 13, 2019
4.5 stars for the book and 5 stars for Rebel
Before getting to my review, let me send a big, public ‘thank you’ to Rosa for an amazing buddy read. It was my first and I couldn’t have wished for a better one. Reading this series with you has made it all the much better, I can’t wait to repeat the experience. 😘
After the first four books, expectations were high and this book didn’t disappoint.
I’m not going into details about the plot, which kept my interest but was at times a bit over the top. The Seven of Spades’s identity was of course finally revealed and it wasn’t a complete surprise for me, but some of the details around the revelation were, and I was satisfied with the way the fallout from this discovery was handled.
Like the rest of the series, this book wasn’t perfect, but the entire series came pretty close to perfection for me.
Not perfect because everything was painless and good all the time, sometimes it was really hard to read. It was always realistic, though, especially when it came to the characters and their dynamic, and that’s what made it perfect for me, even if some parts were difficult to push through. There were times when the only bright spots were Rebel’s moments on page. But then, Rebel is an amazing character and I do love her. 😍😍
I loved that the author didn’t sugarcoat anything, though, these characters have to deal with some serious issues and anything less than what happened would have been a fairy-tale version I wouldn’t have been happy with.
The hard times made what came next even better and, in that respect, this book would definitely deserve 5 stars.
I loved the relationship between Levi and Dominic in this final book,
Unlikely as it may seems, my biggest complaint about this book has to do with the editing.
I noticed right away what was bothering me, but I had to do some research to even know where to begin to explain it.
If, like me before reading this book, you have no idea what the difference between a hyphen and an Em dash is, you can take a look here.
In this book hyphens were used not only when a hyphen was needed, but also in place of Em dashes, which made for a very confusing and frustrating reading experience at times.
I got used to it after a while, but I’m still not happy that I had to get used to it in the first place.
Before getting to my review, let me send a big, public ‘thank you’ to Rosa for an amazing buddy read. It was my first and I couldn’t have wished for a better one. Reading this series with you has made it all the much better, I can’t wait to repeat the experience. 😘
After the first four books, expectations were high and this book didn’t disappoint.
I’m not going into details about the plot, which kept my interest but was at times a bit over the top. The Seven of Spades’s identity was of course finally revealed and it wasn’t a complete surprise for me, but some of the details around the revelation were, and I was satisfied with the way the fallout from this discovery was handled.
Like the rest of the series, this book wasn’t perfect, but the entire series came pretty close to perfection for me.
Not perfect because everything was painless and good all the time, sometimes it was really hard to read. It was always realistic, though, especially when it came to the characters and their dynamic, and that’s what made it perfect for me, even if some parts were difficult to push through. There were times when the only bright spots were Rebel’s moments on page. But then, Rebel is an amazing character and I do love her. 😍😍
I loved that the author didn’t sugarcoat anything, though, these characters have to deal with some serious issues and anything less than what happened would have been a fairy-tale version I wouldn’t have been happy with.
The hard times made what came next even better and, in that respect, this book would definitely deserve 5 stars.
I loved the relationship between Levi and Dominic in this final book,
Unlikely as it may seems, my biggest complaint about this book has to do with the editing.
I noticed right away what was bothering me, but I had to do some research to even know where to begin to explain it.
If, like me before reading this book, you have no idea what the difference between a hyphen and an Em dash is, you can take a look here.
In this book hyphens were used not only when a hyphen was needed, but also in place of Em dashes, which made for a very confusing and frustrating reading experience at times.
I got used to it after a while, but I’m still not happy that I had to get used to it in the first place.
April 3, 2019
4.25 stars
This turned out to be a really good series even though for the first time in forever I GUESSED WHO THE KILLER WAS FROM THE START!!!
Now that I got that excitement out of the way, this final book in the series was a rollercoaster ride on-par with a Hollywood action movie. Not only do we finally find out who the Seven of Spades is, we also get an all out we only have hours to save Las Vegas from epic disaster storyline that would do Dwayne The Rock Johnson proud. The book starts off happily for Levi and Dominic, with some standard police work to finally try to figure how the SoS is, and ratchets up the pace until it's a final sprint to the finish line.
Did all my questions get answered? Not really. My main question was answered but there were still a few things niggling at me in the end. Not enough to ruin the story but still a few loose ends. Like any action movie, I guess we have to put strict realism on hold for a bit in order to enjoy the ride. And that I did.
I liked that the reveal comes early enough for there to be some more story and some reaction and to place a bit of a twist on things. I was also very happy that the romance was on solid ground here, considering the way things went in the last couple of books. Dominic and Levi are getting better about dealing with the tough stuff together and working through their individual issues by using the other as a support. The ending was just what I wanted for Levi, Dominic and, of course, Rebel.
The series ended as it began with plenty of suspense, romance, and action. I found it to be a satisfying ending to a series that was very bingeworthy.
This turned out to be a really good series even though for the first time in forever I GUESSED WHO THE KILLER WAS FROM THE START!!!
Now that I got that excitement out of the way, this final book in the series was a rollercoaster ride on-par with a Hollywood action movie. Not only do we finally find out who the Seven of Spades is, we also get an all out we only have hours to save Las Vegas from epic disaster storyline that would do Dwayne The Rock Johnson proud. The book starts off happily for Levi and Dominic, with some standard police work to finally try to figure how the SoS is, and ratchets up the pace until it's a final sprint to the finish line.
Did all my questions get answered? Not really. My main question was answered but there were still a few things niggling at me in the end. Not enough to ruin the story but still a few loose ends. Like any action movie, I guess we have to put strict realism on hold for a bit in order to enjoy the ride. And that I did.
I liked that the reveal comes early enough for there to be some more story and some reaction and to place a bit of a twist on things. I was also very happy that the romance was on solid ground here, considering the way things went in the last couple of books. Dominic and Levi are getting better about dealing with the tough stuff together and working through their individual issues by using the other as a support. The ending was just what I wanted for Levi, Dominic and, of course, Rebel.
The series ended as it began with plenty of suspense, romance, and action. I found it to be a satisfying ending to a series that was very bingeworthy.
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