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Max Revere #4
Shattered
15 hours, 32 minutes
Over a span of twenty years, four boys have been kidnapped from their bedrooms, suffocated, and buried nearby in a shallow grave. Serial killer or coincidence?
That’s the question investigative reporter Maxine Revere sets out to answer when an old friend begs her to help exonerate his wife, who has been charged with their son’s recent murder. But Max can do little to help because the police and D.A. won’t talk to her—they think they have the right woman. Instead, Max turns her attention to three similar cold cases. If she can solve them, she might be able to help her friend.
Justin Stanton was killed twenty years ago, and his father wants closure—so he is willing to help Max with her investigation on one condition: that she work with his former sister-in-law— Justin’s aunt, FBI Agent Lucy Kincaid. Trouble is, Max works alone, and she’s livid that her only access to the case files, lead detective and witnesses depends on her partnering with a federal agent on vacation. She wants the career-making story almost as much as the truth—but if she gets this wrong, she could lose everything.
Haunted by Justin’s death for years, Lucy yearns to give her family—and herself—the closure they need. More important, she wants to catch a killer. Lucy finds Max’s theory on all three cases compelling—with Max's research added to Lucy’s training and experience, Lucy believes they can find the killer so justice can finally be served. But the very private Lucy doesn’t trust the reporter any more than Max trusts her.
Max and Lucy must find a way to work together to untangle lies, misinformation, and evidence to develop a profile of the killer. But the biggest question is: why were these boys targeted? As they team up to find out what really happened the night Justin was killed, they make a shocking discovery: Justin’s killer is still out there … stalking another victim … and they already may be too late.
Over a span of twenty years, four boys have been kidnapped from their bedrooms, suffocated, and buried nearby in a shallow grave. Serial killer or coincidence?
That’s the question investigative reporter Maxine Revere sets out to answer when an old friend begs her to help exonerate his wife, who has been charged with their son’s recent murder. But Max can do little to help because the police and D.A. won’t talk to her—they think they have the right woman. Instead, Max turns her attention to three similar cold cases. If she can solve them, she might be able to help her friend.
Justin Stanton was killed twenty years ago, and his father wants closure—so he is willing to help Max with her investigation on one condition: that she work with his former sister-in-law— Justin’s aunt, FBI Agent Lucy Kincaid. Trouble is, Max works alone, and she’s livid that her only access to the case files, lead detective and witnesses depends on her partnering with a federal agent on vacation. She wants the career-making story almost as much as the truth—but if she gets this wrong, she could lose everything.
Haunted by Justin’s death for years, Lucy yearns to give her family—and herself—the closure they need. More important, she wants to catch a killer. Lucy finds Max’s theory on all three cases compelling—with Max's research added to Lucy’s training and experience, Lucy believes they can find the killer so justice can finally be served. But the very private Lucy doesn’t trust the reporter any more than Max trusts her.
Max and Lucy must find a way to work together to untangle lies, misinformation, and evidence to develop a profile of the killer. But the biggest question is: why were these boys targeted? As they team up to find out what really happened the night Justin was killed, they make a shocking discovery: Justin’s killer is still out there … stalking another victim … and they already may be too late.
Audiobook
First published August 22, 2017
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About the author
Allison Brennan
110 books5,279 followersNew York Times and USA Today bestselling author Allison Brennan believes that life is too short to be bored, so she had five children and writes three books a year.
In 2019, Allison relocated from Northern California to Arizona with her family and assorted pets. She loves baseball, hiking, family game night, and (of course) reading.
RT Book Reviews called Allison “a master of suspense” and her books “haunting,” “mesmerizing,” “pulse-pounding” and “emotionally complex.” She's been nominated for many awards, and is a three time winner of the Reviewer's Choice award winner for RT Book Reviews as well as the Daphne du Maurier award. Most recently, she was nominated for Best Paperback Original by International Thriller Writers.
With over 45 books and dozens of short stories, Allison is writing multiple series and the occasional stand alone thriller. Her most recent book out now is THE MISSING WITNESS, part of the Quinn & Costa series. In June Allison is launching a new Phoenix-set series about a family of private investigators starting with YOU'LL NEVER FIND ME.
You can reach Allison through Goodreads or her website.
In 2019, Allison relocated from Northern California to Arizona with her family and assorted pets. She loves baseball, hiking, family game night, and (of course) reading.
RT Book Reviews called Allison “a master of suspense” and her books “haunting,” “mesmerizing,” “pulse-pounding” and “emotionally complex.” She's been nominated for many awards, and is a three time winner of the Reviewer's Choice award winner for RT Book Reviews as well as the Daphne du Maurier award. Most recently, she was nominated for Best Paperback Original by International Thriller Writers.
With over 45 books and dozens of short stories, Allison is writing multiple series and the occasional stand alone thriller. Her most recent book out now is THE MISSING WITNESS, part of the Quinn & Costa series. In June Allison is launching a new Phoenix-set series about a family of private investigators starting with YOU'LL NEVER FIND ME.
You can reach Allison through Goodreads or her website.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 362 reviews
November 8, 2021
Investigative reporter Maxine (Max) Revere is asked by John Caldwell, her college ex-boyfriend, to help with his wife’s case. Blair Caldwell is accused of having killed their eight-year old son but John has discovered similar unsolved murders and believes Peter was killed by this same person. Max researches these three prior cases and sees a definite pattern. One of the murders was Justin Stanton, the seven-year old son of Andrew and Nelia Stanton and the nephew of FBI Agent Lucy Kincaid. When contacted, Andrew reluctantly agrees to meet with her only if Lucy is involved.
I’ve waited for this story since beginning the Lucy Kincaid series and the earlier connected trilogies. Though Justin was Lucy’s nephew, they were the same age at the time of his abduction and best friends. His death altered the dynamics of the family, her life and the lives her siblings. Pairing Max and Lucy was a stroke of genius as both are extraordinarily talented with two distinctly different personalities. Both share a common passion for justice and are extremely good at what they do. Max struggles to maintain control of the investigation but Lucy, in her typical manner, quietly shifts into that role by simply doing what she does best…profiling and proving the case theories.
Everything about these investigations was explosive, especially the opening of emotional wounds in the Kincaid family that threatened to fracture Lucy’s relationship with them. Watching Lucy in action was the highlight of the story as she methodically worked the case, bringing light to the who, what and why. She and Max were a great team and the ending couldn’t have been more exciting, emotional and riveting. It delivered all that I had hoped for, especially in the teaming of Max and Lucy, as well as answers to who had killed Justin. I couldn’t put this book down and am so glad I chose to listen to the story. The narrator has always done a great job in capturing Max but to also do the same for Lucy was just more than I’d anticipated. She made this story live, every moment of it. I’m so primed to now return to the Lucy Kincaid series. This one was special.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
I’ve waited for this story since beginning the Lucy Kincaid series and the earlier connected trilogies. Though Justin was Lucy’s nephew, they were the same age at the time of his abduction and best friends. His death altered the dynamics of the family, her life and the lives her siblings. Pairing Max and Lucy was a stroke of genius as both are extraordinarily talented with two distinctly different personalities. Both share a common passion for justice and are extremely good at what they do. Max struggles to maintain control of the investigation but Lucy, in her typical manner, quietly shifts into that role by simply doing what she does best…profiling and proving the case theories.
Everything about these investigations was explosive, especially the opening of emotional wounds in the Kincaid family that threatened to fracture Lucy’s relationship with them. Watching Lucy in action was the highlight of the story as she methodically worked the case, bringing light to the who, what and why. She and Max were a great team and the ending couldn’t have been more exciting, emotional and riveting. It delivered all that I had hoped for, especially in the teaming of Max and Lucy, as well as answers to who had killed Justin. I couldn’t put this book down and am so glad I chose to listen to the story. The narrator has always done a great job in capturing Max but to also do the same for Lucy was just more than I’d anticipated. She made this story live, every moment of it. I’m so primed to now return to the Lucy Kincaid series. This one was special.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
August 22, 2017
4+ Stars!
Fast-paced, spine-chilling, and extremely disturbing!
In this latest novel by Brennan she gives us an exciting crossover thriller featuring Max, the tough and tenacious investigative journalist of this series, and Lucy the troubled, extremely clever FBI agent from her other series as they take on a 20-year-old cold case that highlights just how psychologically and emotionally devastating the loss of a loved one, especially a child, can be on the entire family and may not be quite as cold as first believed.
The writing is clear and tight. The characterization is well done. And the plot is a skillfully executed police procedural with twists, turns, emotion, family drama, heartbreak, lies, murder and an ending that will not only satisfy but leave you wanting more.
Shattered is a highly entertaining, harrowing whodunit that doesn’t disappoint and even though it’s the fourth book in the series it can definitely be read as a standalone novel.
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
All my reviews can be found on my blog at http://whatsbetterthanbooks.com
Fast-paced, spine-chilling, and extremely disturbing!
In this latest novel by Brennan she gives us an exciting crossover thriller featuring Max, the tough and tenacious investigative journalist of this series, and Lucy the troubled, extremely clever FBI agent from her other series as they take on a 20-year-old cold case that highlights just how psychologically and emotionally devastating the loss of a loved one, especially a child, can be on the entire family and may not be quite as cold as first believed.
The writing is clear and tight. The characterization is well done. And the plot is a skillfully executed police procedural with twists, turns, emotion, family drama, heartbreak, lies, murder and an ending that will not only satisfy but leave you wanting more.
Shattered is a highly entertaining, harrowing whodunit that doesn’t disappoint and even though it’s the fourth book in the series it can definitely be read as a standalone novel.
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
All my reviews can be found on my blog at http://whatsbetterthanbooks.com
August 21, 2017
I LOVE the Maxine Revere series! She’s an investigative reporter driven to solve cold murder cases. Max can be abrasive, but she’s principled, and loyal, and underneath all the prickle she’s got a heart. These stories start off tackling the evidence, witnesses; a bit crime procedural, but the tension increases bit by bit as we get closer to the truth! Shattered was a nail-biter by the end!
Maxine is approached by a John Caldwell, a former boyfriend from college, when his wife is accused of murdering their eight-year-old son, Peter. He wants Max to look into similar cases and prove his wife is innocent. Max is intrigued by the three cold cases and quickly spots similarities, but one of the unsolved cases is of seven-year-old Justin Stanton and she’s facing a major road block if she doesn’t agree to work with FBI agent Lucy Kincaid, Justin’s aunt.
Max is infuriated by the forced partnering; both Lucy and Max like to run the show and don’t trust easily. Max isn’t certain that Lucy won’t take over and run with all the information she’s uncovered, and Lucy’s not certain that Max won’t exploit her family’s tragedy for sensationalism and ratings. Surprisingly, they end up working very well together; respect, trust, and admiration slowly growing between them. The dynamic between Max and Lucy was fascinating, each trying to figure each other out. They were great together, and I hope we get to see them work together again!
The process of getting to the bottom of the murders, trying to find a connection between them and understand the motivations of the murderer was riveting. Lucy and Max both bring their talents to the table and tackle these heartbreaking, unsolved crimes. It becomes imperative to find this person when they realize another child might be in danger! By the end things were very intense, and I was so nervous for all involved!
As far as reading the Lucy Kincaid series first, I don’t think it’s necessary. I have read the first Lucy Kincaid book and others where she’s a secondary character or in the periphery, so I did have some prior knowledge of her past, but her background is detailed enough in Shattered to grasp the emotional toll Justin’s murder had on Lucy and the family. Justin and Lucy were best friends, both seven when he was abducted and murdered, a tragic event that forever shaped her future.
I think you could read Shattered as a standalone, but without reading the past Maxine Revere books you’d miss fundamental parts of her personality. She’s driven to find the truth, and get justice for victims. She can be kind of a bitch sometimes, but she’s totally grown on me! Also, you wouldn’t understand the relationship struggles she’s having: with Nick, her boyfriend and David her assistant/bodyguard and platonic friend. I was pleased with the final outcomes. I wasn’t thrilled with Nick at all by the end of the last book. I’m happy that Max is finally recognizing that she needs and deserves more, especially after seeing the love and absolute trust between Sean and Lucy.
While this current mystery is solved to satisfaction, the last scene has me chomping at the bit to get the next Maxine Revere book! I haven’t seen any information on a release date, but I can’t wait!
A copy was kindly provided by Minotaur Books via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This review is also posted at The Readers Den.
Maxine is approached by a John Caldwell, a former boyfriend from college, when his wife is accused of murdering their eight-year-old son, Peter. He wants Max to look into similar cases and prove his wife is innocent. Max is intrigued by the three cold cases and quickly spots similarities, but one of the unsolved cases is of seven-year-old Justin Stanton and she’s facing a major road block if she doesn’t agree to work with FBI agent Lucy Kincaid, Justin’s aunt.
Max is infuriated by the forced partnering; both Lucy and Max like to run the show and don’t trust easily. Max isn’t certain that Lucy won’t take over and run with all the information she’s uncovered, and Lucy’s not certain that Max won’t exploit her family’s tragedy for sensationalism and ratings. Surprisingly, they end up working very well together; respect, trust, and admiration slowly growing between them. The dynamic between Max and Lucy was fascinating, each trying to figure each other out. They were great together, and I hope we get to see them work together again!
The process of getting to the bottom of the murders, trying to find a connection between them and understand the motivations of the murderer was riveting. Lucy and Max both bring their talents to the table and tackle these heartbreaking, unsolved crimes. It becomes imperative to find this person when they realize another child might be in danger! By the end things were very intense, and I was so nervous for all involved!
As far as reading the Lucy Kincaid series first, I don’t think it’s necessary. I have read the first Lucy Kincaid book and others where she’s a secondary character or in the periphery, so I did have some prior knowledge of her past, but her background is detailed enough in Shattered to grasp the emotional toll Justin’s murder had on Lucy and the family. Justin and Lucy were best friends, both seven when he was abducted and murdered, a tragic event that forever shaped her future.
I think you could read Shattered as a standalone, but without reading the past Maxine Revere books you’d miss fundamental parts of her personality. She’s driven to find the truth, and get justice for victims. She can be kind of a bitch sometimes, but she’s totally grown on me! Also, you wouldn’t understand the relationship struggles she’s having: with Nick, her boyfriend and David her assistant/bodyguard and platonic friend. I was pleased with the final outcomes. I wasn’t thrilled with Nick at all by the end of the last book. I’m happy that Max is finally recognizing that she needs and deserves more, especially after seeing the love and absolute trust between Sean and Lucy.
While this current mystery is solved to satisfaction, the last scene has me chomping at the bit to get the next Maxine Revere book! I haven’t seen any information on a release date, but I can’t wait!
A copy was kindly provided by Minotaur Books via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This review is also posted at The Readers Den.
September 27, 2017
I did know before I started to read this book that it was the latest book in the Max Revere series. What I did not know that this was a crossover with Allison Brennan's series about Lucy Kincaid. So, this was not a book in one series I haven't read before, it was a new book in two series that I had never read before. That was new for me (at least I think so). But, to be honest, I didn't worry so much about that. Most series are often easy to get into. As long as one starts to get the hang of who is who. And, the only real problem I had was in the beginning when the Kincaid family was introduced, and boy, they were many. But, after a while, I did get the whole picture thanks to Max Revere learning more herself about the Kincaids.
READ THE REST OF THE REVIEW OVER AT FRESH FICTION!
READ THE REST OF THE REVIEW OVER AT FRESH FICTION!
March 13, 2018
Four and a half stars.
This was a change of pace after my last read. It starts with a prologue of a man and woman who have suffered the loss of their only child. The story then takes us to Maxine Revere, an investigative reporter. Maxine, usually known as Max, primarily focuses on missing persons and cold cases. But when her old college boyfriend contacts her as his wife is about to go on trial for the murder of the only son, Max agrees to help by finding out anything she can. She realises this case has a number of similarities to three cold cases, of boys aged between 7-9 taken from their beds, suffocated and buried it shallow graves near the houses where they lived. There are other similarities in the cases which pique Max’s interest further. As she investigates Max comes up with opposition from the families of the cold cases. Despite her initial reservations of working with someone else, Max does end up with invaluable help from Lucy Kincaid, a young FBI Agent and aunt of Justin, a victim in the earliest of the cold cases that span twenty years.
Although this is apparently book 4 in this series. Since it didn’t say that on the cover of my copy, I went into it cold. It didn’t matter a bit. Without having read the earlier books I was soon absorbed in the story. Both Max and Lucy are strong determined characters that command attention. I also loved the relationship between Lucy and her husband Sean.
I was thoroughly interested in this book and hated having to put it down. I kept wanting to get back to it and see how it played out. Anyone who likes police procedural books with strong female characters should enjoy this one as I did. I found it an engrossing read and highly recommend it. The tension is maintained throughout. I will be keen now to read other books by this author.
This was a change of pace after my last read. It starts with a prologue of a man and woman who have suffered the loss of their only child. The story then takes us to Maxine Revere, an investigative reporter. Maxine, usually known as Max, primarily focuses on missing persons and cold cases. But when her old college boyfriend contacts her as his wife is about to go on trial for the murder of the only son, Max agrees to help by finding out anything she can. She realises this case has a number of similarities to three cold cases, of boys aged between 7-9 taken from their beds, suffocated and buried it shallow graves near the houses where they lived. There are other similarities in the cases which pique Max’s interest further. As she investigates Max comes up with opposition from the families of the cold cases. Despite her initial reservations of working with someone else, Max does end up with invaluable help from Lucy Kincaid, a young FBI Agent and aunt of Justin, a victim in the earliest of the cold cases that span twenty years.
Although this is apparently book 4 in this series. Since it didn’t say that on the cover of my copy, I went into it cold. It didn’t matter a bit. Without having read the earlier books I was soon absorbed in the story. Both Max and Lucy are strong determined characters that command attention. I also loved the relationship between Lucy and her husband Sean.
I was thoroughly interested in this book and hated having to put it down. I kept wanting to get back to it and see how it played out. Anyone who likes police procedural books with strong female characters should enjoy this one as I did. I found it an engrossing read and highly recommend it. The tension is maintained throughout. I will be keen now to read other books by this author.
November 7, 2021
Investigative reporter Maxine Revere is asked by an old friend to help is wife who is currently on trial for their eight-year-old son's murder. He tells Max that he has found three similar cold cases that are eerily similar to this case. Max delves into the case of Justin Stanton which is nearly twenty years old. Justin's father, D.A. Andrew Stanton, will cooperate with Max if she partners with Justin's Aunt, FBI Agent Lucy Kincaid. Max is not happy about this, but it is the only way she will get access to the case files.
Lucy looks at the evidence and is convinced that the information that Max has dug up is solid. It seems that Justin may have been the first victim of a serial killer who has since kidnapped and murdered three other boys. Lucy wants to solve this mystery and give her family closure. Lucy and Max work together to catch a killer before they take another victim.
I've been looking forward to this book since we get both Max Revere and Lucy Kincaid. Lucy doesn't trust reporters and Max only works alone, so they got off to a rocky start. This mystery was compelling. We learned the identity of the killer early in the story, but that didn't take anything away from the suspense. I don't know if a reader should jump into either series with this book. I would start at the beginning of one (or both) series and work my way up to this one. My rating: 5 Stars.
Lucy looks at the evidence and is convinced that the information that Max has dug up is solid. It seems that Justin may have been the first victim of a serial killer who has since kidnapped and murdered three other boys. Lucy wants to solve this mystery and give her family closure. Lucy and Max work together to catch a killer before they take another victim.
I've been looking forward to this book since we get both Max Revere and Lucy Kincaid. Lucy doesn't trust reporters and Max only works alone, so they got off to a rocky start. This mystery was compelling. We learned the identity of the killer early in the story, but that didn't take anything away from the suspense. I don't know if a reader should jump into either series with this book. I would start at the beginning of one (or both) series and work my way up to this one. My rating: 5 Stars.
November 7, 2021
I have no idea why this book is in the Max Revere Series. It is The Lucy Show all the way. She is the star and the driving force. Strong willed Max is just along for the ride. One of the events that shaped young Lucy's life was the murder of her nephew when they were both seven. In fact that event affected all the Kincaid siblings and it was great to finally have that mystery resolved.
When Maxine Revere get a call from her college boyfriend needing her help, Max almost doesn't take his call. Max is not liking men very much right now. John needs her help to clear his wife in the abduction and murder of their son and he has found three cold cases, Max's forte, that are strangely similar to his son's case. The oldest case is the 20 year old cold case of the abduction and murder of Justin Stanton. But, in order to get any information on the Stanton case, Max must agree to work with FBI Agent Lucy Kincaid.
This stipulation is not at all what Max, who works alone, wants to agree to. To Lucy, the death of Justin has left a black hole in her family and Max's theory that there were two other murdered children and that by pursuing these three cases it could bring closure to Lucy and her family has Lucy demanding to be part of Max's investigation. As this unlikely duo dig in and review the three cases, they discover several common factors and from there they begin to unravel what really happened and discover that the killer is still out there and may be stalking a new victim.
When Maxine Revere get a call from her college boyfriend needing her help, Max almost doesn't take his call. Max is not liking men very much right now. John needs her help to clear his wife in the abduction and murder of their son and he has found three cold cases, Max's forte, that are strangely similar to his son's case. The oldest case is the 20 year old cold case of the abduction and murder of Justin Stanton. But, in order to get any information on the Stanton case, Max must agree to work with FBI Agent Lucy Kincaid.
This stipulation is not at all what Max, who works alone, wants to agree to. To Lucy, the death of Justin has left a black hole in her family and Max's theory that there were two other murdered children and that by pursuing these three cases it could bring closure to Lucy and her family has Lucy demanding to be part of Max's investigation. As this unlikely duo dig in and review the three cases, they discover several common factors and from there they begin to unravel what really happened and discover that the killer is still out there and may be stalking a new victim.
September 7, 2017
SHATTERED is a fast moving mystery suspense thriller embracing the issues of finding justice for four young boys who have been kidnapped and murdered. Allison Brennan introduces the storyline when a personal friend of Maxine Revere asks her to investigate the kidnapping and murder of his son. He contacts Maxine for help when the police arrest his wife for his son's murder. Maxine’s research finds unsolved cases of three young boys, who over the last twenty years have been kidnapped, suffocated and buried in shallow graves.
The storyline’s pace increases the level of intrigue, and the author introduces several sub plots that change the direction of the investigation. Brennan adds twists and turns uncovering clues revealing evidence that the killer is still stalking young boys. Maxine and Lucy, dig into the details of all the investigations to develop a murderer’s profile. Both come to the conclusion they may be looking for a serial killer. Brennan describes the fragile working relationship developing between Maxine and Lucy as they come to trust one another. The author keeps readers guessing as they follow the investigation and at the same time, Brennan shows the human sides of Maxine and Lucy. As Lucy and Maxine work together, Maxine sees the close bond between Lucy and her husband, Sean giving Maxine food for thought about her relationships. As the investigation unfolds, the author shows Lucy developing insight to her family relationships, the horrible events in her past and how they affected her family’s relationships with her.
SHATTERED delivers suspense and action on every page as Allison Brennan building towards an ending that will take readers breath away. Brennan’s new novel is a must read and earns a five-star ranking.
The storyline’s pace increases the level of intrigue, and the author introduces several sub plots that change the direction of the investigation. Brennan adds twists and turns uncovering clues revealing evidence that the killer is still stalking young boys. Maxine and Lucy, dig into the details of all the investigations to develop a murderer’s profile. Both come to the conclusion they may be looking for a serial killer. Brennan describes the fragile working relationship developing between Maxine and Lucy as they come to trust one another. The author keeps readers guessing as they follow the investigation and at the same time, Brennan shows the human sides of Maxine and Lucy. As Lucy and Maxine work together, Maxine sees the close bond between Lucy and her husband, Sean giving Maxine food for thought about her relationships. As the investigation unfolds, the author shows Lucy developing insight to her family relationships, the horrible events in her past and how they affected her family’s relationships with her.
SHATTERED delivers suspense and action on every page as Allison Brennan building towards an ending that will take readers breath away. Brennan’s new novel is a must read and earns a five-star ranking.
March 7, 2018
Good premise, and I enjoyed the character Lucy Kincaid, but dislike the protagonist, Max. I won’t be reading any more of the series.
October 26, 2017
Book reviews on www.snazzybooks.com
The synopsis for this novel instantly intrigued me – not only do I love crime/detective novels, but I really like it when they include a journalist’s investigation, as they don’t have to stick to the procedures and red tape that the police do. When there’s more than one case which may be linked? Love it! And when some of them are cold cases? This book seems right up my street!
I wasn’t sure if the fact that I hadn’t read any of the others in this series, which centers on investigative reporter Max Revere, would matter but it doesn’t seem to at all. I got the hang of who’s who pretty quickly and although I didn’t know all the background of the characters (such as what exactly went wrong between Max and her boyfriend, Nick, and also her ‘friend’ David?), I still picked it all up well enough to not dampen my enjoyment.
From reading other reviews I can also see that apparently this is a book that feature a character from another of Allison Brennan’s series – FBI agent Lucy Kincaid. I enjoyed reading about both characters and the way they interacted, as well as other people involved in the investigation too – though it felt like the Kincaid family was absolutely huge as more characters were introduced. I’ve no doubt that’s partly because I haven’t read previous books in that series, though, but I did have to stop a few times and try to figure out who was related/ associated with who!
Still, Shattered is definitely an enthralling read which kept me wanting to read on to find out whether the cases were all linked, and if so who did it?! I loved reading about the different personalities, methods and attitudes Lucy and Max brought to the case, and following them as they piece the clues together.
Allison Brennan’s writing is skillful and keeps the tension up throughout. There are some twists and turns, as well as some darker parts which really make you think. Definitely worth giving a go!
Many thanks to St. Martin’s Press and Netgalley for providing a copy of this novel on which I chose to write an honest and unbiased review.
The synopsis for this novel instantly intrigued me – not only do I love crime/detective novels, but I really like it when they include a journalist’s investigation, as they don’t have to stick to the procedures and red tape that the police do. When there’s more than one case which may be linked? Love it! And when some of them are cold cases? This book seems right up my street!
I wasn’t sure if the fact that I hadn’t read any of the others in this series, which centers on investigative reporter Max Revere, would matter but it doesn’t seem to at all. I got the hang of who’s who pretty quickly and although I didn’t know all the background of the characters (such as what exactly went wrong between Max and her boyfriend, Nick, and also her ‘friend’ David?), I still picked it all up well enough to not dampen my enjoyment.
From reading other reviews I can also see that apparently this is a book that feature a character from another of Allison Brennan’s series – FBI agent Lucy Kincaid. I enjoyed reading about both characters and the way they interacted, as well as other people involved in the investigation too – though it felt like the Kincaid family was absolutely huge as more characters were introduced. I’ve no doubt that’s partly because I haven’t read previous books in that series, though, but I did have to stop a few times and try to figure out who was related/ associated with who!
Still, Shattered is definitely an enthralling read which kept me wanting to read on to find out whether the cases were all linked, and if so who did it?! I loved reading about the different personalities, methods and attitudes Lucy and Max brought to the case, and following them as they piece the clues together.
Allison Brennan’s writing is skillful and keeps the tension up throughout. There are some twists and turns, as well as some darker parts which really make you think. Definitely worth giving a go!
Many thanks to St. Martin’s Press and Netgalley for providing a copy of this novel on which I chose to write an honest and unbiased review.
November 11, 2021
Review from 2017:
I'm not sure whether I've read any previous Lucy Kincaid or Max Revere books by this author; some of the Kincaid characters seem familiar, but I haven't recorded here that I've read about them. This book has both series in view, and it is fairly easy to get into, except for the names of all the Kincaid family members!
The crimes investigated here are particularly heinous. Young boys suffocated and buried near their homes, one approximately every five years for the past twenty years. Max finds a tie between the crimes and this book is a hold-your-breath search for a possible serial killer.
Other reviewers have said this can be read as a stand alone; I would not hesitate to read it again, even though I didn't go back to read six or seven other books that cover Lucy or Max.
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Review 2021:
I did not originally rate this book 5 stars, but I have certainly raised it since having read this story now in context of both the Lucy Kincaid and Max Revere series. This is where the stories intersect, and everything I've ever thought about reading in order is cemented by the different reading experience I had this second time.
So much involves the characters from each series, and knowing where the people have interacted in their several stories before makes this so much richer a book to read. I highly recommend that you take the journeys in both series before tackling this one. It was well worth it the second time around!
I'm not sure whether I've read any previous Lucy Kincaid or Max Revere books by this author; some of the Kincaid characters seem familiar, but I haven't recorded here that I've read about them. This book has both series in view, and it is fairly easy to get into, except for the names of all the Kincaid family members!
The crimes investigated here are particularly heinous. Young boys suffocated and buried near their homes, one approximately every five years for the past twenty years. Max finds a tie between the crimes and this book is a hold-your-breath search for a possible serial killer.
Other reviewers have said this can be read as a stand alone; I would not hesitate to read it again, even though I didn't go back to read six or seven other books that cover Lucy or Max.
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Review 2021:
I did not originally rate this book 5 stars, but I have certainly raised it since having read this story now in context of both the Lucy Kincaid and Max Revere series. This is where the stories intersect, and everything I've ever thought about reading in order is cemented by the different reading experience I had this second time.
So much involves the characters from each series, and knowing where the people have interacted in their several stories before makes this so much richer a book to read. I highly recommend that you take the journeys in both series before tackling this one. It was well worth it the second time around!
Read
May 1, 2018A TV crime reporter specializing in cold cases is begged by an old flame to rescue his wife on trial, accused of killing their son. He hopes Max, the crime reporter, can tie the murder to a series of cold case murders similar to his son's. Intrigued, Max agrees. The first case, 20 years ago, brings her in contact with a large influential family, deeply involved with law enforcement, politics and criminal profiling. No matter how she tries, she can't solve these cold cases without involving this family and against her past practices, she pairs up with the cousin of the first apparent victim, an FBI agent. Together these two women pursue these cases seeking connections where no one thought to look, resolutions where no one thought possible. The mystery itself is good but the characters are more engaging than the plotting. For readers who love profiling, this book offers up a remarkable treasure of details not just about criminals but about characters. It is becomes increasingly taut as personalities are revealed over time. A fascinating book on many levels. -Suzanne R.
November 17, 2017
A young boy is kidnapped from his bedroom, drugged, suffocated with his blanket,and buried in a shallow grave fairly close by with his favorite toy. His mother is arrested and charged with his death. His father knows TV journalist Maxine Revere and asks her to look into the death and find the real killer. Max only investigates cold cases but she finds 3 other murders that are exactly the same over the last 20 years. One of those murders involves the Kincaid family who are inherently private people. In order to gain access to details, Max must work with FBI agent Lucy Kincaid to track down the murderer.
This is my first time reading any of the series involving Max Revere. I have read several of the Lucy Kincaid books and I like the way Allison Brennan combined the two individuals. Both of these ladies are great characters. Even though their styles are different, the two meshed together very well. Now I'll have to go back and start reading earlier books in the Revere series.
This is my first time reading any of the series involving Max Revere. I have read several of the Lucy Kincaid books and I like the way Allison Brennan combined the two individuals. Both of these ladies are great characters. Even though their styles are different, the two meshed together very well. Now I'll have to go back and start reading earlier books in the Revere series.
December 1, 2021
Investigative reporter Maxine Revere gets a call from an old friend whose wife is on trial for murdering their son. He has done research and found 3 other boys have been killed in the same manner over the last 20 years. One of those boys is FBI Agent Lucy Kincaid’s nephew, Justin. Max and Lucy team up to catch a killer and close some cold cases.
This was an excellent example of the right way to bring 2 different series together. Max and Lucy were an amazing team and worked very well with each other. Although Max was very upset about Lucy becoming her partner, I think the idea was brilliant. It really made Max think about her life and the choices she makes. Max had to let things go while working with Lucy and I think it made her better at her job. She saw things differently and realized that sometimes 2 eyes are better than 1.
Lucy’s family does not take the news of her helping solve Justin’s murder very well. Her father all but kicked her out of the house. I understand being upset that they will have to go through the pain again, but I don’t understand why they wouldn’t want to find out who murdered him. I’ve was very disappointed in the Kincaid family at this point. Dillon gets it and that meant a lot to Lucy.
The cases in this book were heartbreaking. Who would kill children and why? I don’t totally understand the reasons behind the killer’s actions, but I do sympathize with the heartbreak and anger the killer had.
This was an excellent example of the right way to bring 2 different series together. Max and Lucy were an amazing team and worked very well with each other. Although Max was very upset about Lucy becoming her partner, I think the idea was brilliant. It really made Max think about her life and the choices she makes. Max had to let things go while working with Lucy and I think it made her better at her job. She saw things differently and realized that sometimes 2 eyes are better than 1.
Lucy’s family does not take the news of her helping solve Justin’s murder very well. Her father all but kicked her out of the house. I understand being upset that they will have to go through the pain again, but I don’t understand why they wouldn’t want to find out who murdered him. I’ve was very disappointed in the Kincaid family at this point. Dillon gets it and that meant a lot to Lucy.
The cases in this book were heartbreaking. Who would kill children and why? I don’t totally understand the reasons behind the killer’s actions, but I do sympathize with the heartbreak and anger the killer had.
August 19, 2018
I'm giving this 4 stars because I really enjoyed this book. I've had some ups and downs with the Max Revere series, but I absolutely love Lucy Kincaid and Sean Rogan. Having this be a crossover book between the two series was great on one hand. However, on the other hand, the death of Lucy's nephew Justin has always been a huge dark cloud over Lucy and her family and I just don't like the fact that if a person DOESN'T read the Max Revere series but does follow the Lucy Kincaid series, they were cheated out of the closure of that storyline. However, this book really was less about Max, so a reader could easily read this book without having read the other Max books. Someone who has read only the Max and not the Lucy books? Not so much.
Having said that, I liked the fact that Max pulled back on her usual need to know EVERYTHING and didn't press for more of Lucy and Sean's backstory. I also liked the fact that Lucy helped Max to see some of her own close relationships in a different light and possibly help her decide how she wants to move forward with them.
In light of the ending of this book, I'm looking forward to Max's next investigation, which may just bring her the answers and closure she's been seeking all of her life.
Having said that, I liked the fact that Max pulled back on her usual need to know EVERYTHING and didn't press for more of Lucy and Sean's backstory. I also liked the fact that Lucy helped Max to see some of her own close relationships in a different light and possibly help her decide how she wants to move forward with them.
In light of the ending of this book, I'm looking forward to Max's next investigation, which may just bring her the answers and closure she's been seeking all of her life.
August 26, 2017
This book was one of the stories I have been eagerly waiting to read and I wasn't disappointed. In fact, I couldn't put the book down once I started. It was that much exciting.
I love Lucy. She's one of my all time favorite characters. Maxine piqued my interest in the previous books. I have to say that I wanted to read this book because of Lucy more than Maxine but the author have written it so well that I will look forward to Maxine's next story as well. This book is like an intersection in the road for Maxine. The first three books show who Maxine is and what drives her to find answers to a point of obsession. This book lets her grow into a person.
In this book, Lucy helps Maxine in the case as well as her life so that she can choose what really she wants and what's important. And we see Lucy discovering what makes her tick as Max put it. I loved the plot. I loved how Lucy and Sean was used in this book. I liked Maxine in this book. I'm looking forward to both the characters' next books.
I love Lucy. She's one of my all time favorite characters. Maxine piqued my interest in the previous books. I have to say that I wanted to read this book because of Lucy more than Maxine but the author have written it so well that I will look forward to Maxine's next story as well. This book is like an intersection in the road for Maxine. The first three books show who Maxine is and what drives her to find answers to a point of obsession. This book lets her grow into a person.
In this book, Lucy helps Maxine in the case as well as her life so that she can choose what really she wants and what's important. And we see Lucy discovering what makes her tick as Max put it. I loved the plot. I loved how Lucy and Sean was used in this book. I liked Maxine in this book. I'm looking forward to both the characters' next books.
October 28, 2018
For Max Revere, finding the truth is her call as she investigates cold cases that catch her attention. When one of her college friends calls her up to help find the truth in the matter of his son’s death. Is his wife a killer or did someone else do it? Max can’t help since the trial is less than 2 weeks away and the police as well as the DA insist they have the right person on trial for the murder. When Max finds three other cases that are similar in nature, she dives into those cold cases hoping that in solving those cases she might be able to help her friend.
What Max gets when she goes to San Diego and the first cold case/murder, Justin Stanton, and when she finds out the father wants her to work with his former sister-in-law, well let’s just say Max is less than pleased. But when FBI Agent Lucy Kincaid Rogan strolls through the door, Max finds herself facing a woman who is determined to find justice, to find the truth in her nephew’s murder as well as the other two cold cases. Lucy finds Max’s theory compelling and intrigued from the start. But as these two formable women draw closer to the answers they search for, another child is in the cross-hairs of the killer. Will Max and Lucy be able to figure the truth out and get justice for those three families? And will Max be able to tell her friend what the truth is in his son’s murder without breaking his already fragile heart into a million pieces?
SHATTERED brings two series by this acclaimed and talented author together in a story that literally will leave you on the edge of your seat, flipping (or in my case swiping the screen) pages to see where Max and Lucy go next. It’s tense, engrossing and downright enthralling as the reader finally finds out what happened to Lucy’s nephew twenty years before. This story is layered and totally intriguing with a few twists I didn’t see coming. The writing is tight and the pace of the story flows quickly. I highly enjoyed Max and Lucy together and apart as both women try to work within the parameters of the law and their own ethics and morals. What really intrigued me was how Max couldn’t read Lucy at all. Max takes pride in figuring people out and it was fun to see her so stymied over trying to see what makes Lucy tick, so to speak. I also loved seeing the Kincaid family again. Those scenes are heartbreaking, joyful and at times quite tension filled as family dynamics go into play, even in a fictional world such as this one. Ms. Brennan does a wonderful job conveying so many characters personalities and vulnerabilities within the pages of SHATTERED. I loved how Lucy has grown as a person with in the series and her love story with Sean continues though not as focused in the story as it is Lucy’s series.
SHATTERED is more than a mystery/thriller, its about the characters as well. They are well written, multidimensional people that I would adore meeting and basking in their presence for a day, heck even an hour. Sean and Lucy are delightful especially since I finished Make Them Pay (Lucy Kincaid #12) and Two to Die For (two book anthology) recently. The author does an amazing job having the characters grow with each book, showing how they are strong yet also putting the spotlight on their vulnerabilities as well. Max and Lucy are tough women, determined to find truth and justice no matter what, even as they cross lines at times to get that information. Ms. Brennan delivers a heart pounding ride from start to finish and its one you cannot help but want to go along with them. All I can say is buckle up, it’s about to get bumpy!
If you haven’t tried either series I highly recommend you grab the books, settle in and binge read them. They are highly entertaining and this is one author I automatically buy or pre-order because her books are just that good. I look forward to seeing where both Lucy and Max go in the future and see what this author has in store for them next because the ending of Shattered leaves the reader with not answers but a whole lot more questions than ever before.
This is an objective review and not an endorsement
What Max gets when she goes to San Diego and the first cold case/murder, Justin Stanton, and when she finds out the father wants her to work with his former sister-in-law, well let’s just say Max is less than pleased. But when FBI Agent Lucy Kincaid Rogan strolls through the door, Max finds herself facing a woman who is determined to find justice, to find the truth in her nephew’s murder as well as the other two cold cases. Lucy finds Max’s theory compelling and intrigued from the start. But as these two formable women draw closer to the answers they search for, another child is in the cross-hairs of the killer. Will Max and Lucy be able to figure the truth out and get justice for those three families? And will Max be able to tell her friend what the truth is in his son’s murder without breaking his already fragile heart into a million pieces?
SHATTERED brings two series by this acclaimed and talented author together in a story that literally will leave you on the edge of your seat, flipping (or in my case swiping the screen) pages to see where Max and Lucy go next. It’s tense, engrossing and downright enthralling as the reader finally finds out what happened to Lucy’s nephew twenty years before. This story is layered and totally intriguing with a few twists I didn’t see coming. The writing is tight and the pace of the story flows quickly. I highly enjoyed Max and Lucy together and apart as both women try to work within the parameters of the law and their own ethics and morals. What really intrigued me was how Max couldn’t read Lucy at all. Max takes pride in figuring people out and it was fun to see her so stymied over trying to see what makes Lucy tick, so to speak. I also loved seeing the Kincaid family again. Those scenes are heartbreaking, joyful and at times quite tension filled as family dynamics go into play, even in a fictional world such as this one. Ms. Brennan does a wonderful job conveying so many characters personalities and vulnerabilities within the pages of SHATTERED. I loved how Lucy has grown as a person with in the series and her love story with Sean continues though not as focused in the story as it is Lucy’s series.
SHATTERED is more than a mystery/thriller, its about the characters as well. They are well written, multidimensional people that I would adore meeting and basking in their presence for a day, heck even an hour. Sean and Lucy are delightful especially since I finished Make Them Pay (Lucy Kincaid #12) and Two to Die For (two book anthology) recently. The author does an amazing job having the characters grow with each book, showing how they are strong yet also putting the spotlight on their vulnerabilities as well. Max and Lucy are tough women, determined to find truth and justice no matter what, even as they cross lines at times to get that information. Ms. Brennan delivers a heart pounding ride from start to finish and its one you cannot help but want to go along with them. All I can say is buckle up, it’s about to get bumpy!
If you haven’t tried either series I highly recommend you grab the books, settle in and binge read them. They are highly entertaining and this is one author I automatically buy or pre-order because her books are just that good. I look forward to seeing where both Lucy and Max go in the future and see what this author has in store for them next because the ending of Shattered leaves the reader with not answers but a whole lot more questions than ever before.
This is an objective review and not an endorsement
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 16, 2017
Shattered by Allison Brennan is the fourth book in the author's Maxine Revere series of books. Allison Brennan is well established as a law enforcement procedural thriller writer. In Shattered, Max teams up with another of Brennan's beloved protagonists, Lucy Kincaid. Together, they attempt to solve the cold case murders of three pre-adolescent boys which may or may not be linked to a current trial in which Max's ex-boyfriend's wife is the accused. One cold case victim, Justin, is Lucy Kincaid's nephew.
Consistent with my other Allison Brennan experiences, this book revolved around an interesting concept and was convincingly written with law enforcement realism in mind. The protagonists are complex, flawed, and relatable.
Standing in my way of a truly enjoyable experience is the execution of joining two protagonists from different series. This book became very much about Lucy Kincaid even though it is in Max's series and should have been her show. If this book was an addition to the Lucy Kincaid series, or if the levels of involvement were shifted from Lucy to Max, it would have been a really exciting addition to either series.
I imagine that loyal Allison Brennan readers will love this book and treasure these two characters in the same pages. That said, readers are also going to find a lot of backstory in this book. Not only is the series protagonist's backstory reviewed, as one may expect, but the addition of Lucy Kincaid's backstory made the book difficult to get into. There was so much review and catch up in the first half that those already up to date may feel bogged down while readers new to either protagonist may feel overwhelmed.
It had been several years since I had read an Allison Brennan book and I was very happy to be reintroduced to her intelligent writing.
Consistent with my other Allison Brennan experiences, this book revolved around an interesting concept and was convincingly written with law enforcement realism in mind. The protagonists are complex, flawed, and relatable.
Standing in my way of a truly enjoyable experience is the execution of joining two protagonists from different series. This book became very much about Lucy Kincaid even though it is in Max's series and should have been her show. If this book was an addition to the Lucy Kincaid series, or if the levels of involvement were shifted from Lucy to Max, it would have been a really exciting addition to either series.
I imagine that loyal Allison Brennan readers will love this book and treasure these two characters in the same pages. That said, readers are also going to find a lot of backstory in this book. Not only is the series protagonist's backstory reviewed, as one may expect, but the addition of Lucy Kincaid's backstory made the book difficult to get into. There was so much review and catch up in the first half that those already up to date may feel bogged down while readers new to either protagonist may feel overwhelmed.
It had been several years since I had read an Allison Brennan book and I was very happy to be reintroduced to her intelligent writing.
September 29, 2017
I just don't get the great reviews. The good plot is ruined by families squabbling they don't wantcasesreopened,which is totally unrealistic.Ask any real cold case detectives. The find the profiling done by Lucy unrealistic.Wonder what real profilers would say about the leaps andboundsshe makes. Guess I've read to many good books to like mediocre ones.
September 24, 2017
Long with a bit of redundant info but a good story.
September 12, 2017
When an author takes two of her beloved characters from different series and puts them together in one book – Brilliant.. Have to say though I'm Team Lucy... Love the all the Kincaid's who were also in the book as a tragedy that impacted all them 20 years ago becomes a focus of Maxine's.
Tenacious investigative reporter Maxine Revere is asked by an old college boyfriend to help prove the crime his wife has been accused of – murdering their son – isnt true. Max wants to help but she doesnt deal in active open cases.. Her specialty is cold cases. Well turns out there are some similarities to 3 cold cases and Max decides she is going to pursue those in hopes if she finds the killer of those cases she will find the killer of her friends son.
Plot twist - The father of the first boy killed 20 years ago happens to be Lucy Kincaid's ex brother in law – the father of her nephew who she grew up with as they were around the same age as there was such a huge age gap between her older sister and herself. His death impacted everyone – even Lucy who was just 7 at the time. Andrew is willing to help Max anyway he can but he knows other than Lucy all the other Kincaids are going to block any attempt into dredging up the past and the pain that comes with it– even if its to find the killer. Knowing that Lucy is just as tenacious in wanting justice both on the job as FBI agent and also in her personal life he takes Max's discovery to her hoping that she will agree to help Max.
Funny part about that was Max didn't want a partner and it didnt take her long to totally piss off Lucy's extremely protective husband Sean. Once everyone put aside their ego's and got down to the investigating the two worked well together. Lucy has so many traits that make her a great agent – and she doesnt let them interfere with her doing her job.. Max is a great investigative reporter but she lets her pride and ego get in the way.
I was riveted during the investigation on finding out the who, what and why of the killer. Loved this book and would love more of these two together..
Tenacious investigative reporter Maxine Revere is asked by an old college boyfriend to help prove the crime his wife has been accused of – murdering their son – isnt true. Max wants to help but she doesnt deal in active open cases.. Her specialty is cold cases. Well turns out there are some similarities to 3 cold cases and Max decides she is going to pursue those in hopes if she finds the killer of those cases she will find the killer of her friends son.
Plot twist - The father of the first boy killed 20 years ago happens to be Lucy Kincaid's ex brother in law – the father of her nephew who she grew up with as they were around the same age as there was such a huge age gap between her older sister and herself. His death impacted everyone – even Lucy who was just 7 at the time. Andrew is willing to help Max anyway he can but he knows other than Lucy all the other Kincaids are going to block any attempt into dredging up the past and the pain that comes with it– even if its to find the killer. Knowing that Lucy is just as tenacious in wanting justice both on the job as FBI agent and also in her personal life he takes Max's discovery to her hoping that she will agree to help Max.
Funny part about that was Max didn't want a partner and it didnt take her long to totally piss off Lucy's extremely protective husband Sean. Once everyone put aside their ego's and got down to the investigating the two worked well together. Lucy has so many traits that make her a great agent – and she doesnt let them interfere with her doing her job.. Max is a great investigative reporter but she lets her pride and ego get in the way.
I was riveted during the investigation on finding out the who, what and why of the killer. Loved this book and would love more of these two together..
June 27, 2018
Maxine Revere is her name.
Cold cases are her game.
But this time.....
She has a federal agent on her side.
In this dynamic crossover novel, we see Max and Lucy Kincaid working their hardest to find a killer they know is still out there. They both have personal stakes in this collection of cold cases. These cases came across Maxine's desk when longtime friend John, called for help clearing his wife's name. She couldn't possibly have killed their son. The proof? 3 other cold cases where a young boy was killed in a similar manner. One of those boys was Lucy's nephew and best friend.
Justin was killed when the two of them were seven and a half years old. This monster took her nephew, ruined a marriage, and confused the family for almost 20 years.... until now.
Fair warning because I'm about to post spoilers.
So while others found this suspenseful and a shocking twist, I knew.
I also have degrees in Criminal Justice AND Psychology.
But I am by no means discrediting Allison Brennan because this book was still absolutely fantastic and the amount of research she must have put into this book is astounding.
This review and reviews of the rest of the Maxine Revere Series can be found at A Reader's Diary!
Cold cases are her game.
But this time.....
She has a federal agent on her side.
In this dynamic crossover novel, we see Max and Lucy Kincaid working their hardest to find a killer they know is still out there. They both have personal stakes in this collection of cold cases. These cases came across Maxine's desk when longtime friend John, called for help clearing his wife's name. She couldn't possibly have killed their son. The proof? 3 other cold cases where a young boy was killed in a similar manner. One of those boys was Lucy's nephew and best friend.
Justin was killed when the two of them were seven and a half years old. This monster took her nephew, ruined a marriage, and confused the family for almost 20 years.... until now.
Fair warning because I'm about to post spoilers.
So while others found this suspenseful and a shocking twist, I knew.
I also have degrees in Criminal Justice AND Psychology.
But I am by no means discrediting Allison Brennan because this book was still absolutely fantastic and the amount of research she must have put into this book is astounding.
This review and reviews of the rest of the Maxine Revere Series can be found at A Reader's Diary!
October 19, 2017
You want the truth. I understand that drive. I really do. I am always seeking the truth-but more than that, I am looking for answers. I am driven by a much darker force than truth. I need justice, I need to know that killers will be caught, that they will be punished.
Max Revere is on a case for a her show that solves cold cases. It is the most compelling as it deals with human behavior and finding the truth. Her old college friend has called for help. His wife is on trial for the murder of their little boy that was taken and then found several miles from his home. Is this senseless murder connected to a cold case from twenty years ago? Where a killer buried the victims in a place where they played. Three cases that have similarities in the span of 20 years.
Max knows she needs to start with the first victim of Justin Stanton and they only way she can get answers is to have Lucy Kincaid FBI agent partner alongside her. Lucy is also related to the victim and specializes in profiling the serial killers. Where there is tension, character development is prevalent and it is between Lucy and Max. They both want the truth but they need each other to get to the killer. A killer that has methodically killed little boys and left families shattered.
This is the best one that I have read of these series. I loved how the relationship between Lucy and Max became one of respect where there was caution. These two characters were different in many aspects but their strength and weakness brought them together to solve the crime. It also dealt with what makes a mind want to kill children. The why of the crime is what made this such a compelling thriller. I loved it.
A Special Thank You to St. Martins Press and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to provide an honest review.
Max Revere is on a case for a her show that solves cold cases. It is the most compelling as it deals with human behavior and finding the truth. Her old college friend has called for help. His wife is on trial for the murder of their little boy that was taken and then found several miles from his home. Is this senseless murder connected to a cold case from twenty years ago? Where a killer buried the victims in a place where they played. Three cases that have similarities in the span of 20 years.
Max knows she needs to start with the first victim of Justin Stanton and they only way she can get answers is to have Lucy Kincaid FBI agent partner alongside her. Lucy is also related to the victim and specializes in profiling the serial killers. Where there is tension, character development is prevalent and it is between Lucy and Max. They both want the truth but they need each other to get to the killer. A killer that has methodically killed little boys and left families shattered.
This is the best one that I have read of these series. I loved how the relationship between Lucy and Max became one of respect where there was caution. These two characters were different in many aspects but their strength and weakness brought them together to solve the crime. It also dealt with what makes a mind want to kill children. The why of the crime is what made this such a compelling thriller. I loved it.
A Special Thank You to St. Martins Press and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to provide an honest review.
January 5, 2024
Oh boy... There's more Lucy Kincaid in this book than Max Revere - and as such I didn't like it very much. So many things were repeated over and over again without the story getting anywhere.
The fact that you get to look into the killer's life and mind through out the entire book made everything so utterly uninteresting to me I wanted to cry from frustration at times.
Lucy Kincaid jumps to conclusions that are so ridiculously on point it's almost as if she's psychic. And for a while Max is even completely silent, as if the author forgot this is supposed to be a book about Max, not Lucy.
Everything and everyone is sooo bloody fascinated by Lucy, but I don't even understand why. She's not that interesting, dammit. What on Earth is the big deal?? 😑
And Max...? What's up with her? The author must have run out of ideas on how to give such a shallow and narcissistic character any kind of development because in this book she clearly gave up even trying.
Instead we get a rather immature dance around Nick's being or not being her boyfriend.
He's not been anything but a footnote (always mentioned alongside how great in bed he and Max are) since book one, and Max is actually (finally) right: She does deserve better. 🙄
If I had the patience for it I would have pressed play on book #5 straight away just to get it out of the way, but I couldn't really stomach the thought of more of the same right now.
The murders had so much potential in this book, but they're under-utilised and under-developed.
Instead I got Lucy, Lucy and more bloody Lucy. 😑
Ahh. Sigh. 😤
The fact that you get to look into the killer's life and mind through out the entire book made everything so utterly uninteresting to me I wanted to cry from frustration at times.
Lucy Kincaid jumps to conclusions that are so ridiculously on point it's almost as if she's psychic. And for a while Max is even completely silent, as if the author forgot this is supposed to be a book about Max, not Lucy.
Everything and everyone is sooo bloody fascinated by Lucy, but I don't even understand why. She's not that interesting, dammit. What on Earth is the big deal?? 😑
And Max...? What's up with her? The author must have run out of ideas on how to give such a shallow and narcissistic character any kind of development because in this book she clearly gave up even trying.
Instead we get a rather immature dance around Nick's being or not being her boyfriend.
He's not been anything but a footnote (always mentioned alongside how great in bed he and Max are) since book one, and Max is actually (finally) right: She does deserve better. 🙄
If I had the patience for it I would have pressed play on book #5 straight away just to get it out of the way, but I couldn't really stomach the thought of more of the same right now.
The murders had so much potential in this book, but they're under-utilised and under-developed.
Instead I got Lucy, Lucy and more bloody Lucy. 😑
Ahh. Sigh. 😤
June 26, 2018
I loved this book!! Great story!! my 1st time reading this author i will read more of her books!!
February 21, 2019
This installment was sublime. The suspense was more psychological, as two main characters met and the tension between the two was high. However, this made the book even more interesting. Differing from previous books, some parts were written through the eyes of killer. Strangely, this didn't take off the suspense. Looking forward to the next one!
July 12, 2017
Shattered by author Allison Brennan is a fast paced, unstoppable read which delivers big on suspense and great characters! This new book explodes with two of Brennan’s greats…Maxine Revere and Lucy Kincaid!
Maxine Revere is an investigative reporter with a TV show with NET. She delves into murder cold cases and digs until she has answers. I enjoy the Maxine Revere series!
I also admire the Lucy Kincaid series and this one is full of Lucy’s insights into her family, the past, and how horrifying events have changed the whole family and their perception of her.
So together you have Maxine and Lucy working on a case which could involve the unsolved murder of Lucy’s nephew, Justin. But during the course of the story -TRUST- between Maxine and Lucy is very fragile.
I don’t post spoilers, but this is written so well and the characters are portrayed with such respect for their pasts, emotions, and their priorities in racing to chase down a killer of young boys.
This is one of the very best books I have read this year and love it!
Great Job, Allison Brennan in bringing together two of my favorite characters!!
Maxine Revere is an investigative reporter with a TV show with NET. She delves into murder cold cases and digs until she has answers. I enjoy the Maxine Revere series!
I also admire the Lucy Kincaid series and this one is full of Lucy’s insights into her family, the past, and how horrifying events have changed the whole family and their perception of her.
So together you have Maxine and Lucy working on a case which could involve the unsolved murder of Lucy’s nephew, Justin. But during the course of the story -TRUST- between Maxine and Lucy is very fragile.
I don’t post spoilers, but this is written so well and the characters are portrayed with such respect for their pasts, emotions, and their priorities in racing to chase down a killer of young boys.
This is one of the very best books I have read this year and love it!
Great Job, Allison Brennan in bringing together two of my favorite characters!!
November 28, 2017
Is supposed to be a Max Revere story, but Lucy, Lucy, Lucy, Lucy, Lucy, Lucy, Lucy, Lucy.... Everyone in the Lucy stories is obsessed with Lucy Kincaid. Now Max Revere is obsessed with Lucy Kincaid. The author is obsessed with Lucy Kincaid. I am not. I deliberately do not read the Lucy books because every little thing about Lucy is observed ad nauseam by every other character in the story. I like the Max Revere books because...no Lucy. Until now. Sigh.
March 7, 2018
Tons of action, suspense and drama. Once you figure out all the characters it's an awesome book!
February 9, 2019
Minotaur Books and NetGalley provided me with an electronic copy of Shattered. I was under no obligation to review this book and my opinion is freely given.
My two favorite characters from Allison Brennan's books, investigative reporter Maxine Revere and FBI Agent Lucy Kincaid, have come together to solve a series of cold cases that span 20 years. During her investigation of a case involving her old friend, Max discovers other cases that are remarkably similar. Needing someone in law enforcement to help, Lucy is the logical choice because one of the victims was her nephew. Skating on thin ice with her new boss already, will Lucy sabotage her career in return for the truth? Will Max's distrust of law enforcement hinder the investigation or will she discover the benefits to having many branches of law enforcement as allies?
Shattered has a strong premise and well developed characters, as well as a fast moving plot. The painstaking process of investigating is well represented, with the end result being an interesting book about the complexities of solving crimes that have gone cold. Both Lucy and Max are determined, strong women, and their intensity helps to propel the book forward. Although this book is part of a larger whole, readers who are new to the series will still be able to enjoy Shattered. I liked how well the women worked together and I hope that author Allison Brennan will revisit their temporary partnership in subsequent books.
My two favorite characters from Allison Brennan's books, investigative reporter Maxine Revere and FBI Agent Lucy Kincaid, have come together to solve a series of cold cases that span 20 years. During her investigation of a case involving her old friend, Max discovers other cases that are remarkably similar. Needing someone in law enforcement to help, Lucy is the logical choice because one of the victims was her nephew. Skating on thin ice with her new boss already, will Lucy sabotage her career in return for the truth? Will Max's distrust of law enforcement hinder the investigation or will she discover the benefits to having many branches of law enforcement as allies?
Shattered has a strong premise and well developed characters, as well as a fast moving plot. The painstaking process of investigating is well represented, with the end result being an interesting book about the complexities of solving crimes that have gone cold. Both Lucy and Max are determined, strong women, and their intensity helps to propel the book forward. Although this book is part of a larger whole, readers who are new to the series will still be able to enjoy Shattered. I liked how well the women worked together and I hope that author Allison Brennan will revisit their temporary partnership in subsequent books.
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