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Forensic Instincts #7
Dead in a Week
What would you do if your daughter was kidnapped and given only a week to live? Lauren Pennington is celebrating her junior year abroad when life comes to a screeching halt. At Munich's Hofbräuhaus, she engages in an innocent flirtation with a charming stranger for the length of a drink. Drink finished, Lauren leaves―only to be snatched from the streets and thrown into an unmarked van. Officially, Aidan Deveraux is a communications expert for one of the largest financial firms in the world. In his secret life, the former Marine heads the Zermatt Group, a covert team of military and spy agency operatives that search the data stream for troubling events in an increasingly troubled world. When his artificial intelligence system detects Lauren's kidnapping, Aidan immediately sees the bigger picture. Silicon Lauren's father, Vance Pennington, is about to launch a ground-breaking technology with his company NanoUSA―a technology that the Chinese are desperate for. No sooner does Aidan arrive on Vance's doorstep to explain the situation than the father receives a chilling text hand over the technology or Lauren will be dead in a week. In a globe-spanning chase, from the beer halls of Germany, to the tech gardens of California, to the skyscrapers of China, and finally the farmlands of Croatia, Aidan's team cracks levels of high-tech security and complex human mystery with a dogged determination. Drawing in teammates from the Forensic Instincts team (introduced in The Girl Who Disappeared Twice ), the Zermatt Group will uncover the Chinese businessmen responsible, find the traitors within NanoUSA who are helping them, and save Lauren from a brutal death.
317 pages, Hardcover
First published March 19, 2019
92 people are currently reading
415 people want to read
About the author
Andrea Kane
48 books834 followersComing in March 2019 from Andrea Kane: DEAD IN A WEEK.
Andrea Kane is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of twenty-nine novels, including fifteen psychological thrillers and fourteen historical romantic suspense titles. With her signature style, Kane creates unforgettable characters and confronts them with life-threatening danger. As a master of suspense, she weaves them into exciting, carefully-researched stories, pushing them to the edge—and keeping her readers up all night.
Kane’s first contemporary suspense thriller, Run for Your Life, became an instant New York Times bestseller. She followed with a string of bestselling psychological thrillers including No Way Out, Twisted, and Drawn in Blood.
Her latest in the highly successful Forensic Instincts series, Dead in a Week, adds the Zermatt Group into the mix—a covert team of former military and spy agency operatives. With a week to save a young woman from ruthless kidnappers, this globe-spanning chase, from the beerhalls of Germany, to the tech gardens of California, to the skyscrapers of China, and finally the farmlands of Croatia will keep readers guessing until the very end. The first showcase of Forensic Instincts’ talents came with the New York Times bestseller, The Girl Who Disappeared Twice, followed by The Line Between Here and Gone, The Stranger You Know, The Silence that Speaks, The Murder That Never Was, and A Face to Die For.
Kane’s beloved historical romantic suspense novels include My Heart’s Desire, Samantha, Echoes in the Mist, and Wishes in the Wind.
With a worldwide following of passionate readers, her books have been published in more than twenty languages.
Kane lives in New Jersey with her husband and family. She’s an avid crossword puzzle solver and a diehard Yankees fan. Otherwise, she’s either writing or playing with her Pomeranian, Mischief, who does his best to keep her from writing.
Andrea Kane is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of twenty-nine novels, including fifteen psychological thrillers and fourteen historical romantic suspense titles. With her signature style, Kane creates unforgettable characters and confronts them with life-threatening danger. As a master of suspense, she weaves them into exciting, carefully-researched stories, pushing them to the edge—and keeping her readers up all night.
Kane’s first contemporary suspense thriller, Run for Your Life, became an instant New York Times bestseller. She followed with a string of bestselling psychological thrillers including No Way Out, Twisted, and Drawn in Blood.
Her latest in the highly successful Forensic Instincts series, Dead in a Week, adds the Zermatt Group into the mix—a covert team of former military and spy agency operatives. With a week to save a young woman from ruthless kidnappers, this globe-spanning chase, from the beerhalls of Germany, to the tech gardens of California, to the skyscrapers of China, and finally the farmlands of Croatia will keep readers guessing until the very end. The first showcase of Forensic Instincts’ talents came with the New York Times bestseller, The Girl Who Disappeared Twice, followed by The Line Between Here and Gone, The Stranger You Know, The Silence that Speaks, The Murder That Never Was, and A Face to Die For.
Kane’s beloved historical romantic suspense novels include My Heart’s Desire, Samantha, Echoes in the Mist, and Wishes in the Wind.
With a worldwide following of passionate readers, her books have been published in more than twenty languages.
Kane lives in New Jersey with her husband and family. She’s an avid crossword puzzle solver and a diehard Yankees fan. Otherwise, she’s either writing or playing with her Pomeranian, Mischief, who does his best to keep her from writing.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
July 8, 2019
Unfortunately, the premise is more interesting than this kidnap story. Have I mentioned I don't care much for kidnap stories? 2 of 10 stars
January 15, 2021
I've been reading AK's books since her days of writing historical romance and then the romantic suspense and now the thrillers. They are all good reads and well-written. This book was a bit of a disappointment. This first book with the Zermatt Group characters is a bit too technical for me. I miss the books that focused on personal relationships as well. It is not a bad book. It has a good premise but not a lot of danger. The bad guy is somewhat easy to figure out. I will continue to read her books and hope for more of the personal relationship stuff.
February 23, 2019
I really enjoyed this newest book from author, Andrea Kane. It has a pretty good pacing that stays steady throughout the whole book from beginning to end.
Aidan is a strong lead character. Plus, he is intelligent. Which I would expect from a former Marine. While, Aidan may have been the lead character; the other characters did not play second string. They were prominent figures in the story as well.
As I briefly hinted prior; there is plenty of action in this story. So the mixture of good characters and a nice storyline makes this book a quick and good read. Fans of this author will be happy with this new book. New readers will as well.
Aidan is a strong lead character. Plus, he is intelligent. Which I would expect from a former Marine. While, Aidan may have been the lead character; the other characters did not play second string. They were prominent figures in the story as well.
As I briefly hinted prior; there is plenty of action in this story. So the mixture of good characters and a nice storyline makes this book a quick and good read. Fans of this author will be happy with this new book. New readers will as well.
April 6, 2019
I think what I loved most about this one was getting to know Aidan more. He's been in the back ground, popping in with his adorable daughter. Aidan's work with the Zermatt Group surprised me, yet was spot on with what we knew about him.
I really liked that Adian and his people knew what was going on with Lauren before anyone else and jumped in to help. By going to the father right away it seems like they got a jump on things. Watching the Zermatt team work was great! They were an odd collection of people, yet worked well together. As they learned more you couldn't help but to be rooting them on. As the mole was revealed I was surprised, yet not as I started to lean that way in my thinking too. I was glad that Simone was able to show that person what their greed lead to.
I'd love to see more of Adian and the Zermatt Group, it would be fun to see them working with Casey and her Forensic Instincts team.
I really liked that Adian and his people knew what was going on with Lauren before anyone else and jumped in to help. By going to the father right away it seems like they got a jump on things. Watching the Zermatt team work was great! They were an odd collection of people, yet worked well together. As they learned more you couldn't help but to be rooting them on. As the mole was revealed I was surprised, yet not as I started to lean that way in my thinking too. I was glad that Simone was able to show that person what their greed lead to.
I'd love to see more of Adian and the Zermatt Group, it would be fun to see them working with Casey and her Forensic Instincts team.
May 23, 2019
Well this is not really a Forensic Instincts book but a new series introduced in a very disjointed manner. Most of the forensic characters make cameos or are on the fringes of the kidnapping story. As for the new characters way to many to keep track of, add in daily flights, many foreign countries this became an almost DNF read. I only finished it because this is a series I devoured very quickly when I discovered it and was waiting for that to happen and it never did.
December 26, 2020
Dead in a Week (Forensic Instincts #7) by Andrea Kane
Synopsis /
Lauren Pennington is celebrating her junior year abroad when life comes to a screeching halt. At Munich's Hofbräuhaus, she engages in an innocent flirtation with a charming stranger for the length of a drink. Drink finished, Lauren leaves--only to be snatched from the streets and thrown into an unmarked van.
Officially, Aidan Deveraux is a communications expert for one of the largest financial firms in the world. In his secret life, the former Marine heads the Zermatt Group, a covert team of military and spy agency operatives that search the data stream for troubling events in an increasingly troubled world. When his artificial intelligence system detects Lauren's kidnapping, Aidan immediately sees the bigger picture.
Silicon Valley: Lauren's father, Vance Pennington, is about to launch a ground-breaking technology with his company NanoUSA--a technology that the Chinese are desperate for. No sooner does Aidan arrive on Vance's doorstep to explain the situation than the father receives a chilling text message: hand over the technology or Lauren will be dead in a week.
In a globe-spanning chase, from the beer halls of Germany, to the tech gardens of California, to the skyscrapers of China, and finally the farmlands of Croatia, Aidan's team cracks levels of high-tech security and complex human mystery with a dogged determination. Drawing in teammates from the Forensic Instincts team (introduced in The Girl Who Disappeared Twice), the Zermatt Group will uncover the Chinese businessmen responsible, find the traitors within NanoUSA who are helping them, and save Lauren from a brutal death.
My Thoughts /
Dead in a Week is book 7 in the Forensic Instincts series.
This is one of my absolute all-time favourite series. I am an absolute fan of Andrea Kane’s Forensic Instincts Team. Keen to start reading book 7 to see what Casey and her Team get up to. I soon realised that Dead in a Week introduces a whole NEW company (and a whole NEW Team), the Zermatt Group. Hmmm. Would the new Team, plot and setting be as great a read as I have been used to?
Zermatt Group comprises Aidan Devereaux (brother to FI’s Marc Devereaux), Simone, Philip and Terri. The story begins with Aidan being asked to investigate the kidnapping of a young female American college student, Lauren, whose father is VP of a highly secure technology company, NanoUSA. Her kidnappers send a message – ‘You have seven days to comply’ – ‘Do everything we ask or your daughter will be dead in a week’.
Some of the FI characters had small cameos or are developed into the fringes of this kidnapping. The Zermatt Group’s characters are smart, resourceful and, their interactions are both professional and personal. There was a huge plot twist at the end – the villain was not even one I’d have contemplated – kudos Ms Kane!
I did enjoy the book but, there was something missing for me – that x-factor something. The story is ok, the characters show promise but….
Maybe I was just disappointed not to be reading about my usual FI team.
3.5 stars and a reserved judgment from me.
Book #7’s Favourite Quote:-
You have: Seven days to comply.
You will: turn over all the details of your manufacturing technology.
You won’t: contact the police, the FBI, or make any changes in your routine.
You should: Wait for our instructions.
You must: do everything we ask or your daughter will be dead in a week.
Synopsis /
Lauren Pennington is celebrating her junior year abroad when life comes to a screeching halt. At Munich's Hofbräuhaus, she engages in an innocent flirtation with a charming stranger for the length of a drink. Drink finished, Lauren leaves--only to be snatched from the streets and thrown into an unmarked van.
Officially, Aidan Deveraux is a communications expert for one of the largest financial firms in the world. In his secret life, the former Marine heads the Zermatt Group, a covert team of military and spy agency operatives that search the data stream for troubling events in an increasingly troubled world. When his artificial intelligence system detects Lauren's kidnapping, Aidan immediately sees the bigger picture.
Silicon Valley: Lauren's father, Vance Pennington, is about to launch a ground-breaking technology with his company NanoUSA--a technology that the Chinese are desperate for. No sooner does Aidan arrive on Vance's doorstep to explain the situation than the father receives a chilling text message: hand over the technology or Lauren will be dead in a week.
In a globe-spanning chase, from the beer halls of Germany, to the tech gardens of California, to the skyscrapers of China, and finally the farmlands of Croatia, Aidan's team cracks levels of high-tech security and complex human mystery with a dogged determination. Drawing in teammates from the Forensic Instincts team (introduced in The Girl Who Disappeared Twice), the Zermatt Group will uncover the Chinese businessmen responsible, find the traitors within NanoUSA who are helping them, and save Lauren from a brutal death.
My Thoughts /
Dead in a Week is book 7 in the Forensic Instincts series.
This is one of my absolute all-time favourite series. I am an absolute fan of Andrea Kane’s Forensic Instincts Team. Keen to start reading book 7 to see what Casey and her Team get up to. I soon realised that Dead in a Week introduces a whole NEW company (and a whole NEW Team), the Zermatt Group. Hmmm. Would the new Team, plot and setting be as great a read as I have been used to?
Zermatt Group comprises Aidan Devereaux (brother to FI’s Marc Devereaux), Simone, Philip and Terri. The story begins with Aidan being asked to investigate the kidnapping of a young female American college student, Lauren, whose father is VP of a highly secure technology company, NanoUSA. Her kidnappers send a message – ‘You have seven days to comply’ – ‘Do everything we ask or your daughter will be dead in a week’.
Some of the FI characters had small cameos or are developed into the fringes of this kidnapping. The Zermatt Group’s characters are smart, resourceful and, their interactions are both professional and personal. There was a huge plot twist at the end – the villain was not even one I’d have contemplated – kudos Ms Kane!
I did enjoy the book but, there was something missing for me – that x-factor something. The story is ok, the characters show promise but….
Maybe I was just disappointed not to be reading about my usual FI team.
3.5 stars and a reserved judgment from me.
Book #7’s Favourite Quote:-
You have: Seven days to comply.
You will: turn over all the details of your manufacturing technology.
You won’t: contact the police, the FBI, or make any changes in your routine.
You should: Wait for our instructions.
You must: do everything we ask or your daughter will be dead in a week.
May 13, 2020
These books are always so intricately crafted that I feel as if I have gotten a solid tech education by the time the crime is resolved. Andrea Kane is an amazing writer!!!
March 21, 2019
Caveat: I have read, and thoroughly enjoyed, Andrea Kane’s Forensic Instincts’ series dating back to 2012. You can see my past reviews by clicking on the title: THE LINE FROM HERE AND GONE, THE MURDER THAT NEVER WAS, and A FACE TO DIE FORA FACE TO DIE FOR.
When I found out that a new book was in the works I patiently waited to get my hands on a copy thinking it was another book from the Forensic Instincts’ series. I soon realized that DEAD IN A WEEK introduces a new company, the Zermatt Group. Would this new group of characters, plot, settings, etc., be as great a read as her previous novels?
And Andrea Kane did not disappoint her readers that love the Forensic Instincts cast since they did have a hand in solving the case that the Zermatt Group is currently working on.
Aidan Devereaux founded the Zermatt Group 5 years ago, a covert operation, along with his team, Simone, Philip, and Terri. They don’t have boundaries, can’t be hired but they find cases that only they can solve using their experience and unlimited contacts around the world.
And this case involves the kidnapping of an American young college student, Lauren, in Germany. Her father, Vance Pennington, VP of a highly secure technology company, NanoUSA, doesn’t even know that his daughter has been taken until Aidan pays him a visit. Not only is this information terrifying, but they only have 1 week to find her or the kidnappers will kill her if what they want isn’t delivered.
I was very impressed with the details of this book with both the settings and the technology. The research had to have been meticulous, vast, and extremely thorough as the story takes place in different parts of the world.
The story hooked me from the very beginning and didn’t let go. I found my heart pounding faster and harder as the days slipped by and the clock was ticking. At times, I even found myself holding my breath due to the action. A thrilling read that had me on the edge of my seat!
The characters were amazing. And just a little hint…there was a familial connection to the Forensic Instincts.
Now to answer the question, would this new group of characters, plot, settings, etc., be as great a read as her previous novels? The answer is ABSOLUTELY! I can’t wait to see what is next for both the Zermatt Group and Forensic Instincts!
July 16, 2020
3.5 stars.
The main character of this is Aidan, who's Marc's brother and apparently the head of a super secretive Mission Impossible type organisation named the Zermatt Group (the place where the founding members initially met to establish the group). Like FI, it's filled with people with all sorts of skills including Simone, a French HR recruitment consultant whose job it is to look for the right people for a specific job and Aidan's love interest.
The premise of the Zermatt Group is good but
Another thing that I can't reconcile is how much Aidan and Vance Pennington (the kidnapped victim's father), would have contributed to global warming with the number of flights they took in this book!!!! Do real people actually fly back and forth to work daily when they are supposed to be on vacation? Defeats the whole purpose of a vacation?
There are a few twists to the kidnapping plot that did keep me interested, so overall it was still a fairly good read.
The main character of this is Aidan, who's Marc's brother and apparently the head of a super secretive Mission Impossible type organisation named the Zermatt Group (the place where the founding members initially met to establish the group). Like FI, it's filled with people with all sorts of skills including Simone, a French HR recruitment consultant whose job it is to look for the right people for a specific job and Aidan's love interest.
The premise of the Zermatt Group is good but
Another thing that I can't reconcile is how much Aidan and Vance Pennington (the kidnapped victim's father), would have contributed to global warming with the number of flights they took in this book!!!! Do real people actually fly back and forth to work daily when they are supposed to be on vacation? Defeats the whole purpose of a vacation?
There are a few twists to the kidnapping plot that did keep me interested, so overall it was still a fairly good read.
March 30, 2019
This was an enjoyable read, even for someone like me who struggles with my plain jane flip phone (blushing). Much of the plot involved use of high tech devices that would be typical of any covert plot. Anyone who enjoys the benefits of an array of the latest communication devices and understands how they all work will absolutely love Dead in a Week. What saved me was that the narration was done so well that I got the gist of what was being applied and why.
The best part of Andrea Kane’s writing is that she puts you dead center in the scene and action. The victim’s terror was palpable. I was never lost, wondering what just happened, or who said what to whom. It made the flow of the story so exciting and smooth. Andrea didn’t dilly dally in writing trivial dialogue or action.
Andrea Kane is a gifted writer. I recommend her novels to anyone who loves a spine tingling, sit-on-the-edge-of-your-seat thriller.
The best part of Andrea Kane’s writing is that she puts you dead center in the scene and action. The victim’s terror was palpable. I was never lost, wondering what just happened, or who said what to whom. It made the flow of the story so exciting and smooth. Andrea didn’t dilly dally in writing trivial dialogue or action.
Andrea Kane is a gifted writer. I recommend her novels to anyone who loves a spine tingling, sit-on-the-edge-of-your-seat thriller.
April 15, 2019
Dead in a Week is an explosive story of kidnapping and espionage. The pace gradually builds as we race against the clock along with the Zermatt Group, desperate to save an innocent young woman.
The plot is complex, intricate, and highly detailed. I have no doubt that an impressive amount of research went into the writing process, yet the story never feels weighed down by facts. Andrea Kane seamlessly weaves necessary details into the story as we need them.
This story is highly plot-driven. Action takes center stage, driving the character interactions and development. I normally prefer character-driven fiction, and sometimes I missed the closer connection to the characters, but overall I was fascinated by the inner workings of the Zermatt Group.
This is the seventh Forensic Instincts novel, and the first in the spinoff Zermatt Group Thriller Series. It reads well as a stand-alone.
*I received a copy from the author, via Partners in Crime Book Tours, in exchange for my honest review.*
The plot is complex, intricate, and highly detailed. I have no doubt that an impressive amount of research went into the writing process, yet the story never feels weighed down by facts. Andrea Kane seamlessly weaves necessary details into the story as we need them.
This story is highly plot-driven. Action takes center stage, driving the character interactions and development. I normally prefer character-driven fiction, and sometimes I missed the closer connection to the characters, but overall I was fascinated by the inner workings of the Zermatt Group.
This is the seventh Forensic Instincts novel, and the first in the spinoff Zermatt Group Thriller Series. It reads well as a stand-alone.
*I received a copy from the author, via Partners in Crime Book Tours, in exchange for my honest review.*
July 19, 2019
New ground breaking technology is about to be released by NanoUSA. Technology that the Chinese will do anything to get their hands on. Including kidnapping the daughter of one of the directors of the company. Unless he gets the technology to them within 7 days, they will kill his daughter.
I loved this book. It has it all, industrial espionage, suspense, romance. I couldn’t put it down.
I loved this book. It has it all, industrial espionage, suspense, romance. I couldn’t put it down.
June 2, 2021
WOW such a twist at the end. I did not see this one coming, which is what makes me greatly appreciate this book. I find especially after reading several books by an author their style of "who did it" tends to become repetitive and predictable but not in this series.
May 21, 2021
4 alive stars!
Is this the start of FI and ZG merger?
I was introduced to Zermatt Group, led by Aidan, Marc's older brother. That was kind of hardcore, in a way that it evolved around corporate espionage which I am not so fond of. But the story got me. It was entertaining and interesting.
Between the two groups, I do not have a favorite because its like comparing apples over grapes. They are both okay in their own way.
Is this the start of FI and ZG merger?
I was introduced to Zermatt Group, led by Aidan, Marc's older brother. That was kind of hardcore, in a way that it evolved around corporate espionage which I am not so fond of. But the story got me. It was entertaining and interesting.
Between the two groups, I do not have a favorite because its like comparing apples over grapes. They are both okay in their own way.
March 26, 2019
The Zermatt Group is founded and run by Marc's (from Forensic Instincts) brother Aidan Deveraux, whom we've met before in the Forensic Instincts books. I enjoyed getting to know him better along with his team. I liked the involvement of some of the characters from Forensic Instincts group in this book.
It took me a while to get into this book. Once the initial kidnapping takes place I found the story dragged as I tried to follow all of the new characters and their jobs. I enjoyed the international kidnapping and plans for rescue.
I am not a big fan of technology based fiction, so following the international espionage story line was difficult at times. I found it hard to keep up with the constant changes in locations, especially since several characters where flying from one place to another on a daily, sometime multiple times a day basis. I had a hard time keeping it all straight.
That being said, i look forward to reading the next book in this series and hope to get to know all of the new characters better while visiting with those I've come to know and like.
It took me a while to get into this book. Once the initial kidnapping takes place I found the story dragged as I tried to follow all of the new characters and their jobs. I enjoyed the international kidnapping and plans for rescue.
I am not a big fan of technology based fiction, so following the international espionage story line was difficult at times. I found it hard to keep up with the constant changes in locations, especially since several characters where flying from one place to another on a daily, sometime multiple times a day basis. I had a hard time keeping it all straight.
That being said, i look forward to reading the next book in this series and hope to get to know all of the new characters better while visiting with those I've come to know and like.
July 22, 2019
I have been a big fan of Andrea Kane for a very long time. Ive read all her romance as well as her suspense. Dead in the Water was suspenseful but I felt it was not up to par with her previous series.
I will read the next book in this series when it is released to see if I like it better but if not I will not read this series. Just didn't grab me right away.
I will read the next book in this series when it is released to see if I like it better but if not I will not read this series. Just didn't grab me right away.
March 28, 2019
3.5-star read
I received a digital review copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Lauren Pennington is nothing more than an American foreign-exchange student, biding her time in Germany during her break when an attractive man sits down at a renowned bar and has a drink with her. A few minutes later, Lauren has disappeared. Her family in the US knows nothing of her disappearance, but they will because Lauren has been taken as leverage. Lauren's father, Vance Pennington, is a high-ranking executive with a company about to introduce breakthrough technology in the communication industry. Little does he know that he'll have to choose between his career, company, country, and his daughter's life in the latest addition to Andrea Kane's Forensic Instincts series, Dead in a Week. Fortunately, for Lauren and her parents, Aiden Deveraux has a secretive and behind-the-scenes company, the Zermatt Group, that intuited Lauren's disappearance from the global computer surveillance and the reasons why well before her father was even contacted by the kidnappers. Now the question becomes, can Aiden, along with a few employees from Forensic Instincts, beat the deadline provided to Vance Pennington, locate and successfully retrieve Lauren before Vance has to do the unthinkable?
Dead in a Week is the seventh book in the Forensic Instincts series and the first to introduce us to the Zermatt Group. This taut suspense-thriller is filled with covert spy-like operations within the US and abroad all in an effort to thwart the kidnappers and the loss of corporate technological secrets to a foreign company. Aiden Deveraux is the defacto head of the Zermatt Group and brother to Marc Deveraux, a member of the Forensic Instincts team. Like Marc, Aiden is well-connected internationally and very well trained, militarily speaking. It is primarily due to Aiden's connections that the Zermatt Group is able to search for Lauren in such a short period of time, bouncing from New York, to California, to Germany and Croatia, and then back stateside. The investigation is multi-modal as well in that it uses high-tech computer skills and technicians as well as highly-intuitive "agents" for lack of a better term. The head computer guru is a female, as is the intuitive business management operative. The covert and military-style operations are carried out by Aiden, Marc, and one of Aiden's British compatriots. Needless to say, there's a lot going on in this story: a kidnapping, family angst and drama over the kidnapping, corporate politicking and machinations, international corporate espionage/blackmail, and more. If you've read any of the previous Forensic Instincts books and enjoyed them as much as I did, then you'll definitely want to grab a copy of Dead in a Week to read. Even if you haven't read any of the previous books in the Forensic Instincts series, I think it's possible to read Dead in a Week and not be lost by any of the previous action. If you've read some of Ms. Kane's historical fiction but haven't read any of her suspense-thrillers or romantic-suspense books, then I suggest you start with Dead in a Week and then backtrack to the beginning of the Forensic Instincts series, you can thank me later. Seriously, go get a copy of this book ASAP!
This review originally posted on 3/28/2019 at https://www.thebookdivasreads.com/201....
I received a digital review copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Lauren Pennington is nothing more than an American foreign-exchange student, biding her time in Germany during her break when an attractive man sits down at a renowned bar and has a drink with her. A few minutes later, Lauren has disappeared. Her family in the US knows nothing of her disappearance, but they will because Lauren has been taken as leverage. Lauren's father, Vance Pennington, is a high-ranking executive with a company about to introduce breakthrough technology in the communication industry. Little does he know that he'll have to choose between his career, company, country, and his daughter's life in the latest addition to Andrea Kane's Forensic Instincts series, Dead in a Week. Fortunately, for Lauren and her parents, Aiden Deveraux has a secretive and behind-the-scenes company, the Zermatt Group, that intuited Lauren's disappearance from the global computer surveillance and the reasons why well before her father was even contacted by the kidnappers. Now the question becomes, can Aiden, along with a few employees from Forensic Instincts, beat the deadline provided to Vance Pennington, locate and successfully retrieve Lauren before Vance has to do the unthinkable?
Dead in a Week is the seventh book in the Forensic Instincts series and the first to introduce us to the Zermatt Group. This taut suspense-thriller is filled with covert spy-like operations within the US and abroad all in an effort to thwart the kidnappers and the loss of corporate technological secrets to a foreign company. Aiden Deveraux is the defacto head of the Zermatt Group and brother to Marc Deveraux, a member of the Forensic Instincts team. Like Marc, Aiden is well-connected internationally and very well trained, militarily speaking. It is primarily due to Aiden's connections that the Zermatt Group is able to search for Lauren in such a short period of time, bouncing from New York, to California, to Germany and Croatia, and then back stateside. The investigation is multi-modal as well in that it uses high-tech computer skills and technicians as well as highly-intuitive "agents" for lack of a better term. The head computer guru is a female, as is the intuitive business management operative. The covert and military-style operations are carried out by Aiden, Marc, and one of Aiden's British compatriots. Needless to say, there's a lot going on in this story: a kidnapping, family angst and drama over the kidnapping, corporate politicking and machinations, international corporate espionage/blackmail, and more. If you've read any of the previous Forensic Instincts books and enjoyed them as much as I did, then you'll definitely want to grab a copy of Dead in a Week to read. Even if you haven't read any of the previous books in the Forensic Instincts series, I think it's possible to read Dead in a Week and not be lost by any of the previous action. If you've read some of Ms. Kane's historical fiction but haven't read any of her suspense-thrillers or romantic-suspense books, then I suggest you start with Dead in a Week and then backtrack to the beginning of the Forensic Instincts series, you can thank me later. Seriously, go get a copy of this book ASAP!
This review originally posted on 3/28/2019 at https://www.thebookdivasreads.com/201....
March 29, 2019
College exchange student Lauren Pennington’s disappearance while studying in Munich is a parent’s worst nightmare. And Vance Pennington’s worst fears are confirmed when he receives a demand from kidnappers to turn over his company’s revolutionary new technology program in exchange for his daughter’s safe return. With a deadline of one week to meet the kidnappers’ terms, Vance turns to former Marine captain Aidan Deveraux and his highly-skilled yet secretive Zermatt Group to secure Lauren’s safe return.
Thus begins a race against the clock to rescue Lauren from ruthless criminals who will stop at nothing to achieve their goal. The Zermatt Group, in collaboration with select colleagues from the Forensic Instincts Investigation Agency, undertakes a high stakes pursuit across the globe to identify the group responsible for Lauren’s abduction, track them to the hidden location where she is being held, and uncover the corporate players focused on committing a heinous act of industrial espionage that will destroy technology giant NanoUSA as Vance is about to take its top leadership position.
Can Aidan and his team deliver on their promise to return Lauren unharmed despite dangerous odds? One thing is certain, this determined group of experts is prepared to pull out all the stops necessary to succeed.
In Dead in a Week author Andrea Kane deftly crafts an intricate, fast-paced plot designed to keep readers on the edge of their seats. The characters are smart and resourceful, and their interactions are both professional and personal. Their romantic encounters are as engaging as their working relationships, demonstrating Kane’s expertise in the romantic suspense/thriller genre.
Dead in a Week is part of the Forensic Insights series, but it is also a self-contained stand-alone novel. It was my entry point into the series, and it felt like a natural place to start because it combines continuing characters while introducing new characters into the mix. The story captured my attention from the very first page, and kept me in its grip until its final twist and satisfying conclusion.
Thus begins a race against the clock to rescue Lauren from ruthless criminals who will stop at nothing to achieve their goal. The Zermatt Group, in collaboration with select colleagues from the Forensic Instincts Investigation Agency, undertakes a high stakes pursuit across the globe to identify the group responsible for Lauren’s abduction, track them to the hidden location where she is being held, and uncover the corporate players focused on committing a heinous act of industrial espionage that will destroy technology giant NanoUSA as Vance is about to take its top leadership position.
Can Aidan and his team deliver on their promise to return Lauren unharmed despite dangerous odds? One thing is certain, this determined group of experts is prepared to pull out all the stops necessary to succeed.
In Dead in a Week author Andrea Kane deftly crafts an intricate, fast-paced plot designed to keep readers on the edge of their seats. The characters are smart and resourceful, and their interactions are both professional and personal. Their romantic encounters are as engaging as their working relationships, demonstrating Kane’s expertise in the romantic suspense/thriller genre.
Dead in a Week is part of the Forensic Insights series, but it is also a self-contained stand-alone novel. It was my entry point into the series, and it felt like a natural place to start because it combines continuing characters while introducing new characters into the mix. The story captured my attention from the very first page, and kept me in its grip until its final twist and satisfying conclusion.
March 30, 2019
Dead in a Week is an amazing book. I just loved it and could not put it down. Dead in a Week introduces the Zermatt Group which is managed by Marc Deveraux's brother, Aidan. Aidan reaches out to Casey for assistance from Forensic Instincts. Aidan needed help from Ryan and Emma. Emma had the better joIn a sort of "big brother" program, Aidan and his team discover that the daughter of an executive at NanoUSA has been kidnapped before any ransom demands are even made. Lauren Pennington is studying abroad and is kidnapped to use as leverage to get information on new industry changing technology that NanoUSA is planning on releab,Dead in a Week is an amazing book. I just loved it and could not put it down. Dead in a Week introduces the Zermatt Group which is managed by Marc Deveraux's brother, Aidan. Aidan reaches out to Casey for assistance from Forensic Instincts. Aidan asked for the assistance from Ryan and Emma. Ryan helped with creating electronic gadgets, but in my opinion Emma got the better job. She got to take Abby, Aidan's daughter to Disneyland. Emma, also got to assist Aidan with some information gathering. In a sort of "big brother" program, Aidan and his team discover that the daughter of an executive at NanoUSA has been kidnapped before any ransom demands are even made. Lauren Pennington is studying abroad and is kidnapped to use as leverage to get information on new industry changing technology that NanoUSA is planning on releasing in the near future. Love meeting the new Zermatt Group players and the dynamic among the group. Andrea Kane has one again delivered an amazing bestseller. I love all the fun gadgets that that Ryan and Terri created to help gather information, even if it is illegal. Loved the surprise plot twist. The villian was not even on my short list. Great job!. Andrea Kane has one again delivered an amazing bestseller. I love all the fun gadgets that that Ryan and Terri created to help gather information, even if it is illegal. Loved the surprise plot twist. The villian was not even on my short list. Great job!
April 10, 2019
I liked this one but not as much as the Forensic Instincts series. Aiden Deveraux is ex-military, wealthy, and the head of the Zermatt Group, a covert group of military and spy operatives who search the data stream for disturbing events around the world. Think Person of Interest, the television show that operates along those same lines.
In this instance, Aiden learns of a young woman's kidnapping. Lauren Pennington, daughter of Vance Pennington, whose company is about to launch his latest technological invention, NanoUSA, (something the Chinese are desperate to get their hands on), has been snatched off the streets and is being held at some remote location around Croatia..
Aiden goes to see Vance Pennington to offer Zermatt's services. He arrives just as Pennington receives a message from Lauren's kidnappers. Either Pennington hands over NanoUSA to them or they kill Lauren. He has one week to comply.
When Pennington hires Aiden to recover his daughter and secure NanoUSA, Aiden quickly assembles his team and they get to work.
I loved the characters in this story. Aiden was a single father to little Abby, a product of his marriage to the love of his life who, sadly, passed away. While Aiden is rock solid, a warrior when it comes to the business of helping others, little Abby clearly has him wrapped around her finger. There isn't anything he wouldn't do to make her happy. Simone is Aiden's top operative, his right hand man, so to speak, and his lover. She can be found working behind the scenes or out on the street depending on what the mission requires of her. The remaining team members have varying skill sets they bring to the table, putting them to good use when necessary.
I breezed through this book fairly quickly. I'm looking forward to whatever happens to be next for this group.
In this instance, Aiden learns of a young woman's kidnapping. Lauren Pennington, daughter of Vance Pennington, whose company is about to launch his latest technological invention, NanoUSA, (something the Chinese are desperate to get their hands on), has been snatched off the streets and is being held at some remote location around Croatia..
Aiden goes to see Vance Pennington to offer Zermatt's services. He arrives just as Pennington receives a message from Lauren's kidnappers. Either Pennington hands over NanoUSA to them or they kill Lauren. He has one week to comply.
When Pennington hires Aiden to recover his daughter and secure NanoUSA, Aiden quickly assembles his team and they get to work.
I loved the characters in this story. Aiden was a single father to little Abby, a product of his marriage to the love of his life who, sadly, passed away. While Aiden is rock solid, a warrior when it comes to the business of helping others, little Abby clearly has him wrapped around her finger. There isn't anything he wouldn't do to make her happy. Simone is Aiden's top operative, his right hand man, so to speak, and his lover. She can be found working behind the scenes or out on the street depending on what the mission requires of her. The remaining team members have varying skill sets they bring to the table, putting them to good use when necessary.
I breezed through this book fairly quickly. I'm looking forward to whatever happens to be next for this group.
September 16, 2024
Well another Andrea Kane book, I am determined to read all or whatever I can get from my library. This one is a Forensic Instincts, #7. Forensic Instincts is an investigation firm that moves just under the law to accomplish the goals of their clients who are generally rich. They are the ultra of the ultra in everything they do.
In this book, the victim is Lauren Pennington, the kidnapped daughter of Vance Pennington who is about to launch a ground-breaking technology with his company NanoUSA―a technology that the Chinese are desperate for. This is going to be very profitable in the US and not so much in China.
A new group (or at least to me) is introduced in this book. Aidan Deveraux is a communications expert for one of the largest financial firms in the world. In his secret life, the former Marine heads the Zermatt Group, a covert team of military and spy agency operatives that search the data stream for troubling events in an increasingly troubled world. He is contacted by Vance to save his daughter in 7 days which is the timetable he is given to turn over all of the company's secrets... or his child will die.
The plot involves globe-hopping from Germany to California and then to China... but my favorite is Croatia (one of my favorite countries). Aidan works hard for his money to crack the case wide open and calls on Forensic Instincts to assist. It is a great combo and the book was exciting and well done as with all of Kane's work.
Romantic suspense that is fast-paced and tightly plotted.
4 stars
Happy Reading!
In this book, the victim is Lauren Pennington, the kidnapped daughter of Vance Pennington who is about to launch a ground-breaking technology with his company NanoUSA―a technology that the Chinese are desperate for. This is going to be very profitable in the US and not so much in China.
A new group (or at least to me) is introduced in this book. Aidan Deveraux is a communications expert for one of the largest financial firms in the world. In his secret life, the former Marine heads the Zermatt Group, a covert team of military and spy agency operatives that search the data stream for troubling events in an increasingly troubled world. He is contacted by Vance to save his daughter in 7 days which is the timetable he is given to turn over all of the company's secrets... or his child will die.
The plot involves globe-hopping from Germany to California and then to China... but my favorite is Croatia (one of my favorite countries). Aidan works hard for his money to crack the case wide open and calls on Forensic Instincts to assist. It is a great combo and the book was exciting and well done as with all of Kane's work.
Romantic suspense that is fast-paced and tightly plotted.
4 stars
Happy Reading!
April 17, 2019
Lauren Pennington is spending time at a bar in Germany when a man comes up and starts talking to her. Then just that quick she is kidnapped and held for ransom. It seems her father, Vance has some cutting edge communication technology that the kidnappers want in exchange for Lauren’s life. Thankfully Aiden Deveraux and the Zermatt Group are on the case.
Aiden’s team found the kidnapping and figured out why Lauren was taken and reported the kidnapping to Vance. They are also there to help get Lauren back home safe and make some bad guys pays.
I have read a couple of the books in this series and just love them. I really need to sit down and catch up on the ones I have missed. I love Aiden’s team. They have the resources to stop events like this one. Aiden is just a great leader, the team works well together, and they have all this high tech goodies to get the job done. There is lots of action and edge of your seat thrills as the team races to rescue Lauren and expose the mole.
If you like thrillers you need to get a copy of this book. Dead in a Week is a captivating story that will have you madly rushing through the book and wanting more when the story is done.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.
Aiden’s team found the kidnapping and figured out why Lauren was taken and reported the kidnapping to Vance. They are also there to help get Lauren back home safe and make some bad guys pays.
I have read a couple of the books in this series and just love them. I really need to sit down and catch up on the ones I have missed. I love Aiden’s team. They have the resources to stop events like this one. Aiden is just a great leader, the team works well together, and they have all this high tech goodies to get the job done. There is lots of action and edge of your seat thrills as the team races to rescue Lauren and expose the mole.
If you like thrillers you need to get a copy of this book. Dead in a Week is a captivating story that will have you madly rushing through the book and wanting more when the story is done.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.
March 25, 2019
I like a novel that has a good plot and plenty of action. This one has both. A tech company facing corporate espionage and an international kidnapping make for a compelling story. Aidan and his team are up to the challenge, with unlimited finances and the latest technology.
Kane has introduced a new covert group in this novel and I like it. I have enjoyed the Forensic Instincts novels and was glad to see some of those characters in this one. Kane manages to provide a good balance of character development, scene description and thrilling action. I like Aidan, brother to one of the FI operatives. I look forward to reading more novels centered on him, his talented group, and his pistol of a young daughter. She is something else!
This is a great novel for readers who enjoy thrilling suspense with well crafted characters and tons of the latest technology.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book through Partners in Crime Virtual Book Tours. My comments are an independent and honest review.
Kane has introduced a new covert group in this novel and I like it. I have enjoyed the Forensic Instincts novels and was glad to see some of those characters in this one. Kane manages to provide a good balance of character development, scene description and thrilling action. I like Aidan, brother to one of the FI operatives. I look forward to reading more novels centered on him, his talented group, and his pistol of a young daughter. She is something else!
This is a great novel for readers who enjoy thrilling suspense with well crafted characters and tons of the latest technology.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book through Partners in Crime Virtual Book Tours. My comments are an independent and honest review.
March 21, 2019
Excellent suspense! I loved the very detailed play-by-play. The description of all the newest and latest technology/electronic devices/spy equipment - how fun! I want to play with some of those! Makes me want to go into the CIA or something. I wonder how many of them are real or made up?
Great character development. Lauren, the innocent victim, seemed very real to me. Aidan, in charge of the whole operation, was perfect and again seemed real. So many others and I am sure each person who reads this will have a different but my favorite was... Simon, the spy planted in Lauren's father's work place - NANO USA. For some reason I just really loved her personality.
This was a very exciting story. Andrea writes a perfect suspense every time! Great story-line, great characters. This one will have you reading into the night. Can't wait to read the next one :-)
I voluntarily posted this review after receiving a copy of this book from Partners in Crime Tours - Thank You!!
Great character development. Lauren, the innocent victim, seemed very real to me. Aidan, in charge of the whole operation, was perfect and again seemed real. So many others and I am sure each person who reads this will have a different but my favorite was... Simon, the spy planted in Lauren's father's work place - NANO USA. For some reason I just really loved her personality.
This was a very exciting story. Andrea writes a perfect suspense every time! Great story-line, great characters. This one will have you reading into the night. Can't wait to read the next one :-)
I voluntarily posted this review after receiving a copy of this book from Partners in Crime Tours - Thank You!!
April 2, 2019
This is a first for me from Kane; but definitely won't be the last! Kane took a very realistic fear of sending a child abroad, only to meet with ill will, and wrapped us up within it. From start to finish, this is a strong read full of descriptive scenes and characters that are fully-developed into realistic people. The technology angle took me a bit to grasp but as long as I took my time, I was able to form the storyline into something I could follow. The ultimate dark theme behind greed and power are clearly evident behind the kidnapping, leaving you questioning if Lauren is going to truly be brought home safe. With an endless supply of financial means and resources, sometimes a promise is more than just that -- it's a guarantee! While I had to go back and re-read several chapters to understand the flow, this is a great read to get pulled into. Will Lauren be dead in a week?! I received an ARC for reviewing purposes. All opinions are my own!
July 20, 2019
At the beginning of the book, our hero, Aiden, is set up as having a nearly 24 hour a day important job with daily massive disasters that only he can handle. His side-gig is doing private rescue, spy, vigilante work. When a project comes up, he drops this important work for a week. Not a word to his bosses, but he does use the company's resources to get a flight from NY to California. Later on we learn his private gig funds itself by stealing money from those it believes to be bad actors. And it owns and operates a private jet. Wouldn't it make more sense for them to steal a little more to pay this guy so he can leave the job that is so delicate and important only he can do it -- except for when he goes AWOL.
The plot was good, the writing was okay. I wouldn't read any others in what I now understand to be a series.
The plot was good, the writing was okay. I wouldn't read any others in what I now understand to be a series.
March 18, 2019
3.5 stars I am a big fan of this series. I have enjoyed the characters from the FI team sinc the start. Dead in a Week is a solid addition. This one focuses on Aiden, Mark's brother, and his secret spy team. They are looking for a missing millionaire's daughter and have exactly one week to do it. I did enjoy this one. It was action packed and fast paced. I liked getting to know Aiden better and am intrigued by his team members. Up until now, the books have focused on the FI team members. I'm not sure if this book is setting us up for a spin-off series featuring the Zermatt Group. The only thing I missed with this one was seeing the entire FI team in action. I love how they interact and solve cases together. This one works well as a stand alone and I do recommend it.
May 25, 2019
An enjoyable but forgettable, novel, "Dead in a Week" centers around a young woman's kidnapping with an unusual ransom. Rather than money, the kidnappers, who work for the Chinese, are desperate to get their hands on ground-breaking technology.
What follows is a slightly unbelievable suspense / drama. Kane has recycled characters from her "Forensics Institute" series but she did not make the most of that strategy and use it as an opportunity to widen her reader base.
Unfortunately the plot, pacing and narrative are missing the "X-Factor". The story is OK but it is neither as thrilling nor as compelling as fans of Kane's might expect. It's not horrible, it's just average.
Final Rating? Two point five stars rounded up .
What follows is a slightly unbelievable suspense / drama. Kane has recycled characters from her "Forensics Institute" series but she did not make the most of that strategy and use it as an opportunity to widen her reader base.
Unfortunately the plot, pacing and narrative are missing the "X-Factor". The story is OK but it is neither as thrilling nor as compelling as fans of Kane's might expect. It's not horrible, it's just average.
Final Rating? Two point five stars rounded up .
November 5, 2022
This is the first book of the Zermatt Group with only a few members of Forensic Instincts being involved. Marc's brother Aiden gets a call that a young woman has been kidnapped and has been threatened with death if her Father doesn't give secrets of his cutting edge tech company to a competitor. Aiden knows even with the payment made the girl is still in danger of being killed so he knows the week they have been given is very critical to saving Lauren's life...He enlists the help of Marc, Ryan and Emma from FI telling them they can't breathe a word of his team or what they are doing... Very good book Ms. Kane is an excellent author... Very Highly Recommend.
October 31, 2020
I have always liked the Forensic Instinct group of detectives, even though often their cases seem a bit of a stretch. This one seems pretty reasonable in that respect. A business executive whose company is on the verge of launching a new technology has the worst thing imaginable, at least if you are a parent--his daughter is kidnapped and held ransom, her freedom only being guaranteed if he turns over the framework of the new thing--which is held under lock and key at his company, not accessible to him. So it is a high stakes case, and the book reads well.
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