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Ctrl+Alt+Deleted
Charlotte McBain, the tech consultant for Rockmond PD's missing person team, has disappeared.
She went missing after her boyfriend, Mateo Jaso, one of the team's detectives, left their bed in the middle of the night to console a friend, whose worthless husband left her again.
Sean Benson, who heads the investigation into Charlotte’s disappearance, must explore the history of Matt's alcoholism, the unusual, straight-talking Charlotte, and their passionate and sensual relationship, leaving no stone unturned in his effort to find his teammate.
No one is above suspicion, ex-lovers, estranged family members, and those who disapprove of their inter-racial relationship. Who has the most to gain by separating Charlotte from Matt?
Will they find Charlotte and, if so, will the incident and the secrets uncovered forever affect her relationship with Matt?
Find out in this character-driven, missing person mystery.
She went missing after her boyfriend, Mateo Jaso, one of the team's detectives, left their bed in the middle of the night to console a friend, whose worthless husband left her again.
Sean Benson, who heads the investigation into Charlotte’s disappearance, must explore the history of Matt's alcoholism, the unusual, straight-talking Charlotte, and their passionate and sensual relationship, leaving no stone unturned in his effort to find his teammate.
No one is above suspicion, ex-lovers, estranged family members, and those who disapprove of their inter-racial relationship. Who has the most to gain by separating Charlotte from Matt?
Will they find Charlotte and, if so, will the incident and the secrets uncovered forever affect her relationship with Matt?
Find out in this character-driven, missing person mystery.
242 pages, Paperback
Published September 1, 2018
9 people are currently reading
31 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
October 23, 2018
My rating 4.1
The book "Ctrl + Alt + Deleted (Rockmond PD Mysteries # 1)" by Trish Butler is a solid mystery novel. Although it seems to me is too many explicit sex scenes according to my taste, which I honestly did not get used to reading in the books of this genre. The writer done her job well, the book reads quickly and the story pulls you to read it to the end. Through the story, we meet two of the main characters Matt and Charlotte. Matt is a detective investigating the disappearance of a person, and Charlotte is a computer expert who came to repair computer work at his department. Although their relationship is rather provocative in the beginning, it soon goes into a romantic relationship. But because of their past, their relationship will be in danger. I would recommend the book to lovers of mysteries and romance.
The book "Ctrl + Alt + Deleted (Rockmond PD Mysteries # 1)" by Trish Butler is a solid mystery novel. Although it seems to me is too many explicit sex scenes according to my taste, which I honestly did not get used to reading in the books of this genre. The writer done her job well, the book reads quickly and the story pulls you to read it to the end. Through the story, we meet two of the main characters Matt and Charlotte. Matt is a detective investigating the disappearance of a person, and Charlotte is a computer expert who came to repair computer work at his department. Although their relationship is rather provocative in the beginning, it soon goes into a romantic relationship. But because of their past, their relationship will be in danger. I would recommend the book to lovers of mysteries and romance.
October 12, 2021
This is my first foray into contemporary as well as the detective/missing person genre. I hope you enjoy it.
I have strived to make my characters diverse and with depth. That their actions ring true with the way I've written them.
Lastly, I hope you don't guess the culprit until the last possible moment!
Thank you for reading.
Trish
I have strived to make my characters diverse and with depth. That their actions ring true with the way I've written them.
Lastly, I hope you don't guess the culprit until the last possible moment!
Thank you for reading.
Trish
September 25, 2019
A delightful thriller/mystery. Charlotte, a contractor with the missing persons unit, goes missing, and it’s up to the rest of her team to find her. There were lots of players in this one and juicy complex drama. Just my kind of story! Told both in the current timeline and with lots of flashbacks and interesting side plots (if you love flashback-driven stories, this is for you!) to Charlotte and Mateo’s early days, as well as Mateo’s backstory, this was a wonderful mix of police procedural (so well done!) and a steamy read.
There was a nice use of diversity with some Spanish included. Charlotte and Mateo have an edgy romantic life for sure, and this novel pushes the limits! We see steamy scenes with murmurings in Spanish, a scene caught on camera that took me by surprise, and encounters where Charlotte encourages Mateo to unleash his dark side. The backstories were developed in a great way, especially for Mateo—I liked the exploration of the loss of his parents, his time in foster care, and his struggle with addiction and how that shaped his desire to become a cop. This had some really great character development. Charlotte immediately grew on me. Whip-smart and a tech geek? Awesome! Without giving away spoilers, this was full of great twists and surprises. Nice dialogue and a very clear, easy to follow story that kept a thrilling pace all the way to the end. 4/5 stars.
Please excuse typos/name misspellings. Entered on screen reader.
There was a nice use of diversity with some Spanish included. Charlotte and Mateo have an edgy romantic life for sure, and this novel pushes the limits! We see steamy scenes with murmurings in Spanish, a scene caught on camera that took me by surprise, and encounters where Charlotte encourages Mateo to unleash his dark side. The backstories were developed in a great way, especially for Mateo—I liked the exploration of the loss of his parents, his time in foster care, and his struggle with addiction and how that shaped his desire to become a cop. This had some really great character development. Charlotte immediately grew on me. Whip-smart and a tech geek? Awesome! Without giving away spoilers, this was full of great twists and surprises. Nice dialogue and a very clear, easy to follow story that kept a thrilling pace all the way to the end. 4/5 stars.
Please excuse typos/name misspellings. Entered on screen reader.
April 6, 2019
Ctl+Alt+Deleted, by Trish Butler, is a compelling story you will struggle to put down. Charlotte McBain is a tech consultant for the Rockmond Police Department. Meet boyfriend Mateo Jaso, a detective and Sean Benson who heads the investigation into Charlotte’s disappearance.
Butler’s characters are powerfully observed and so personal it’s like she’s opened a window to their souls, each one created with the greatest care and deliberation. Riveting from beginning to end, it taps into our inner most fears to deliver a gripping pulse pounding narrative which keeps us on edge.
The plot is tightly wound, but rather than get bogged down in details the characters take us through a kinetic series of escalating events that give us just enough to figure out what’s going to happen next whilst ramping up momentum toward what proved to be a perfectly pitched ending. Butler cleverly manipulates our expectations with the mood further enhanced by a captivatingly vibrant blend of romance and sexual tension, and mystery.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a fast-paced hot, hot romance with a side of mystery to cool it down.
Butler’s characters are powerfully observed and so personal it’s like she’s opened a window to their souls, each one created with the greatest care and deliberation. Riveting from beginning to end, it taps into our inner most fears to deliver a gripping pulse pounding narrative which keeps us on edge.
The plot is tightly wound, but rather than get bogged down in details the characters take us through a kinetic series of escalating events that give us just enough to figure out what’s going to happen next whilst ramping up momentum toward what proved to be a perfectly pitched ending. Butler cleverly manipulates our expectations with the mood further enhanced by a captivatingly vibrant blend of romance and sexual tension, and mystery.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a fast-paced hot, hot romance with a side of mystery to cool it down.
September 29, 2020
A policeman’s girlfriend/colleague is abducted. But why? And by whom?
This fast-paced thriller poses a lot of questions about the frustration of human imperfection and the push/pull of old allegiances versus a new love.
The denouement was cleverly woven and the whole story is taut and spare.
I loved it.
Just read it
This fast-paced thriller poses a lot of questions about the frustration of human imperfection and the push/pull of old allegiances versus a new love.
The denouement was cleverly woven and the whole story is taut and spare.
I loved it.
Just read it
October 27, 2020
Trish Butler has given us an imaginative mystery in Ctrl+Alt+Deleted. Detective Matt Jaso leaves his home one evening to check on an old girlfriend, only to find that his current love Charlotte has gone missing in his absence. Investigator and suspect in turn, Matt weaves his way through a complex web to find his lady love.
For me, the story was sadly spoiled by the author's extensive use of time shifts, sometimes a chapter or more in length. This fracturing of time tended to pull me out of the story, and once I got myself back in again, another time shift would occur, yanking me out again. Also, since the protagonist is Hispanic, Butler employed a lot of Spanish dialogue without translation. One could click on the Spanish to be taken to a translation in English, but again, such gimmicks tended to pull this reader out of the story. Even though the characters were well-drawn and the plot interesting, I was glad when the book was done.
For me, the story was sadly spoiled by the author's extensive use of time shifts, sometimes a chapter or more in length. This fracturing of time tended to pull me out of the story, and once I got myself back in again, another time shift would occur, yanking me out again. Also, since the protagonist is Hispanic, Butler employed a lot of Spanish dialogue without translation. One could click on the Spanish to be taken to a translation in English, but again, such gimmicks tended to pull this reader out of the story. Even though the characters were well-drawn and the plot interesting, I was glad when the book was done.
September 26, 2018
The frustration of the less than perfect, very real character of Mateo, a cop hunting for his missing girlfriend gallops through this thriller.
His colleagues go through the motions, investigating with methodical precision. Suspects include Mateo himself and people from both families.
Beautifully woven throughout the investigation is the the story of Mateo and Charlotte's romance. How they cope, skirt around and hide their own personal demons.
A gripping, believable, first foray into contemporary mystery for Ms Butler. Can't wait to see where this series goes.
His colleagues go through the motions, investigating with methodical precision. Suspects include Mateo himself and people from both families.
Beautifully woven throughout the investigation is the the story of Mateo and Charlotte's romance. How they cope, skirt around and hide their own personal demons.
A gripping, believable, first foray into contemporary mystery for Ms Butler. Can't wait to see where this series goes.
October 14, 2018
In essence, Ctrl+Alt+Deleted is a well-told modern romantic that includes the elements of sex, jealousy, freedom, Idolization and male heroism with a dash of female vulnerable damsel. It adds mixed-race exoticism and racist interference to give the story an extra punch. The character arc of the protagonist, Mateo Jaso, works well offering the reader a clear means from start to finish.
I have given the book 5 stars yet I would prefer 4.5. The protagonist is well defined but the leading lady, Charlotte McBain, is not so, which flattens her character and does this modern romantic an injustice. Nevertheless, the book delivers well on its promise: lovers embroiled in a character-driven, missing person mystery and is well worth reading by those who love modern, sexually-charged romantics.
I have given the book 5 stars yet I would prefer 4.5. The protagonist is well defined but the leading lady, Charlotte McBain, is not so, which flattens her character and does this modern romantic an injustice. Nevertheless, the book delivers well on its promise: lovers embroiled in a character-driven, missing person mystery and is well worth reading by those who love modern, sexually-charged romantics.
February 10, 2019
Right off the bat, the title caught my attention: Ctrl+Alt+Deleted. Clever use of computer lingo to introduce a story and cast of characters for whom a good knowledge of technology will be vital.
I enjoyed the story of Matt and Charlotte and their rocky path to forever. Both come to the relationship with complicated pasts, including former lovers. When seemingly unrelated paths converge, Matt and Charlotte find themselves in the crosshairs and in the fight of their lives. Both of the main characters are likeable and believable, although they make some frustrating choices, but doesn’t everyone? There are also many other well-developed characters in the story which bodes well for the future of the series.
Right from the beginning, the reader is made aware of a situation that has developed involving the main characters. From then on, a great deal of the story is told through one flashback after another. We jump from the present to several years ago to a few days or a few hours ago back to the present then back again to the past. While I could follow the timeline given the chapter headings that explained when things were happening, it was still a bit confusing at times. I think fewer flashbacks would have made the story a bit stronger. Still, the story was well crafted and definitely held my attention. Very steamy scenes are sprinkled throughout the story.
I enjoyed the story of Matt and Charlotte and their rocky path to forever. Both come to the relationship with complicated pasts, including former lovers. When seemingly unrelated paths converge, Matt and Charlotte find themselves in the crosshairs and in the fight of their lives. Both of the main characters are likeable and believable, although they make some frustrating choices, but doesn’t everyone? There are also many other well-developed characters in the story which bodes well for the future of the series.
Right from the beginning, the reader is made aware of a situation that has developed involving the main characters. From then on, a great deal of the story is told through one flashback after another. We jump from the present to several years ago to a few days or a few hours ago back to the present then back again to the past. While I could follow the timeline given the chapter headings that explained when things were happening, it was still a bit confusing at times. I think fewer flashbacks would have made the story a bit stronger. Still, the story was well crafted and definitely held my attention. Very steamy scenes are sprinkled throughout the story.
October 22, 2019
It’s Sunday, Charlotte McBain is in bed with Mateo when the phone rings. Mateo, friend, and past relationship Jimena’s is on the line and needs him, Mateo won’t let a friend down and leaves the comfort of Charlotte’s naked body next to him. Three hours later, when Mateo returns Charlotte is missing.
Mateo is a cop and Charlotte is the tech consultant for Rockmond PD missing person team.
It doesn’t look good for Mateo as he and his family members are suspects.
There are a lot of flashback. (I am a fan of flash backs and these done well (specially the hot scenes, so note, it does have wild steamy sex in the story), on occasion I thought a little of the back story wasn’t needed, and the Spanish speaking line weren’t always explained in English.
Good read, great character development.
Mateo is a cop and Charlotte is the tech consultant for Rockmond PD missing person team.
It doesn’t look good for Mateo as he and his family members are suspects.
There are a lot of flashback. (I am a fan of flash backs and these done well (specially the hot scenes, so note, it does have wild steamy sex in the story), on occasion I thought a little of the back story wasn’t needed, and the Spanish speaking line weren’t always explained in English.
Good read, great character development.
February 7, 2019
Charlotte and Mateo are perfectly imperfect together. Great read of two individuals coming together while trying to overcome their pasts.
Character development was fantastic. I also really enjoyed the fact that the author used Puerto Rican characters - not that I have any in my heritage, but it was nice to see the an author moving outside of the caucasian & even African American typologies. There aren't many authors who tackle the Latino/Hispanic culture.
The author did a wonderful job of world-building and keeps the reader wondering "who did it". Though I did figure it out early on, I don't think most will - but I love mysteries so I tend to think outside the box.
My only complaint is that this book pretty much constantly switches between past/recent past/present and, while it was well done and clearly explained, it pulled me from the storyline time and time again. I would suggest less of that in future installments. I think the same information could have been shared with the readers via conversations, or internal character rumination perhaps?
Regardless, this was a very well written read and I look forward to more from this author. Pick it up, you won't be sorry!
Character development was fantastic. I also really enjoyed the fact that the author used Puerto Rican characters - not that I have any in my heritage, but it was nice to see the an author moving outside of the caucasian & even African American typologies. There aren't many authors who tackle the Latino/Hispanic culture.
The author did a wonderful job of world-building and keeps the reader wondering "who did it". Though I did figure it out early on, I don't think most will - but I love mysteries so I tend to think outside the box.
My only complaint is that this book pretty much constantly switches between past/recent past/present and, while it was well done and clearly explained, it pulled me from the storyline time and time again. I would suggest less of that in future installments. I think the same information could have been shared with the readers via conversations, or internal character rumination perhaps?
Regardless, this was a very well written read and I look forward to more from this author. Pick it up, you won't be sorry!
October 15, 2019
It’s Sunday, 3:00am. Charlotte McBain is in bed with Mateo until the phone rings. Then we learn about Mateo and Jimena’s past relationship. Mateo needs to decide if he stays in bed with Charlotte or if he will console his friend, Jimena. He decides for the latter. When Mateo comes back 3 hours later, Charlotte is missing.
Charlotte is the tech consultant for Rockmond PD’s missing person team. Now, she has disappeared. Mateo was the last one to see her alive and is the prime suspect.
The detective team investigates and tries to find her. The suspects include Mateo and family members from both families. The question that drives the story is “Will they ever find Charlotte?”
There are many flashbacks, steamy sex scenes, twists and turns. It keeps you guessing until the end. The back and forth between present and past was a little confusing at times.
If you like stories with mystery and romance you will enjoy this book.
Charlotte is the tech consultant for Rockmond PD’s missing person team. Now, she has disappeared. Mateo was the last one to see her alive and is the prime suspect.
The detective team investigates and tries to find her. The suspects include Mateo and family members from both families. The question that drives the story is “Will they ever find Charlotte?”
There are many flashbacks, steamy sex scenes, twists and turns. It keeps you guessing until the end. The back and forth between present and past was a little confusing at times.
If you like stories with mystery and romance you will enjoy this book.
April 17, 2019
This hard-hitting detective story will grab you from the start and never let go. Full of intrigue, mystery, and just the right amount of romance, the story opens with the disappearance of Charlotte McBain, a technical advisor to Rockmond PD's missing person team. Naturally, the team dives into action to find her, but there's a hitch. Charlotte's boyfriend, Mateo Jaso, a member of the team and the last person to see her alive, is the prime suspect in her disappearance.
As each chapter ends, the questions and tension continue to mount until you're so deeply hooked that you MUST keep reading. The pacing is feverish, the dialogue gritty and realistic, and the characters well-drawn. Fans of mysteries, procedural thrillers, or just a darn good story will find much to like in this engrossing novel.
As each chapter ends, the questions and tension continue to mount until you're so deeply hooked that you MUST keep reading. The pacing is feverish, the dialogue gritty and realistic, and the characters well-drawn. Fans of mysteries, procedural thrillers, or just a darn good story will find much to like in this engrossing novel.
January 1, 2019
Ctrl+Alt+Deleted is a mystery novel worth your time. The plot grabbed me from the beginning and I wasn’t able to put the book down until I finished it. It’s an easy read and a good one at that. Ctrl+Alt+Deleted will satisfy the lovers of the mystery genre and leave them looking forward to the second book in the series. I had a minor issue with the switching between present and past in the book, at times, I found that to take away from the action and a distraction. But overall, it was a pleasure to read.
June 8, 2021
Sucked right into the action from the very first page. Who took Charlotte? We explore many possibilities including those closest to her before we get the answer.
I loved a few characters and despised others (I think that was intentional). The twists turned every which way until the guilty was exposed. A great roller coaster ride.
Can people change? Maybe. But then again...
If you love a great suspense that keeps you guessing until the end, you’ll love Trish Butler’s, Ctrl-Alt-Dlt.
I loved a few characters and despised others (I think that was intentional). The twists turned every which way until the guilty was exposed. A great roller coaster ride.
Can people change? Maybe. But then again...
If you love a great suspense that keeps you guessing until the end, you’ll love Trish Butler’s, Ctrl-Alt-Dlt.
February 14, 2020
I really enjoyed this book. The story was great, and the writing was articulate and well written. A little too mychbexplicit sex for me, but that’s just my preference. Over all, it’s a great read that kept me engaged until the very surprising end!
August 30, 2020
Wow! Just wow! Not at all how I expected it to go and end. This is an awesome, page-turning, mystery. I couldn’t wait to finish this! This is my first book by Trish Butler, but I’m a fan for life!!
Excellent story, perfect “who done it” kind of book. Read this, you won’t regret it.
Excellent story, perfect “who done it” kind of book. Read this, you won’t regret it.
April 7, 2021
I very much enjoyed this book. The characters were great and the sex scenes were so fun to read.
It’s not my normal genre, but I’m glad I read thus.
Highly recommend.
It’s not my normal genre, but I’m glad I read thus.
Highly recommend.
May 6, 2019
What happens when the person who is supposed to search for missing people goes missing? Trish Butler answers this and more in her steamy relationship-driven mystery Ctrl Alt Deleted. When Charlotte McBain goes missing, it sets Sean Benson on a search for answers, one laced with danger and discovery. This is a novel all about character and Butler pulls this off beautifully with her descriptions and realistic portrayal. All around a good mystery for any inquisitive minds out there!
January 26, 2020
Happy Tea Time Tuesday all! Tonight’s Gem is in this little black box? Let us open it and peruse the contents. Ahhh..it is a diamond ring. A small engagement ring. Nothing fancy. Something a working man would buy for the woman he loves until he can get her a nicer one on down the road. See the diamond, small but polished so that is captures the eye? The gold has also been polished to catch the glimmer of the sun. How beautiful. How lovely. How dangerous… This is Gem Maker Trish Butler’s Ctrl+Alt+Deleted. A tale of suspense worth the reading.
If Trish’s name sounds familiar to you, it is because she has also written the Redway Series. I reviewed the first one in the series a few weeks ago. Those are historical romance, this is anything but. This is the first in her “Rockmond PD Mystery” series. This is the tale for Jaso Mateo. Hard working officer in a Missing Person’s Unit. He has a lovely girlfriend, Charlotte McBain. Cool blonde, knows her computers. They make a lovely, if fiery couple. Jaso is a great guy. He loves Charlotte, but he also loves his friends and family. And he protects those he loves.
Charlotte also works on the Missing Person’s Unit. Sharp, smart and a bit quirky Charlotte holds a secret from Jaso she is sure will ruin their relationship. She wants so very much to tell him, but is terrified that it will end their love.
Early one morning, after a late night argument and make up sex (the sex in this book is explicit, though not over the top, Jaso gets a call. It is from his friend Jimena. At one time they were engaged, but Jimena threw Jaso over for her now husband. She is crying, telling him her husband has left her for the last time. She needs him, she is along and afraid. Charlotte is understanding and tells Jaso she will not stand in the way if Jimena is who he wants. He doesn’t want her, he stopped loving her a long time ago, he wants Charlotte, but he goes to comfort Jimena as a friend and to make sure her daughter is alright.
When he comes home, there are police officers everywhere and Charlotte is no where to be found. Where is she? How does one find the person who finds Missing Persons? What if she doesn’t want to be found, what if she’s dead? The list of suspects grows with friends, enemies, lovers and exes. It is a deadly game, but someone has to play and Jaso wants to so very badly, but he has a bad temper and a drinking problem.
I really liked this novel. It is a good, solid story and fast paced. There is a lot of time jumping here with flashbacks, resent and old and the main story. I believe it could have done with a few less flashbacks, but this barely detracted from the story.
If you are looking for a good psychological romp, Ctrl+Alt+Deleted is for you!
Until tomorrow I remain, your humble Book Dragon, Drakon T. Longwitten
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review
If Trish’s name sounds familiar to you, it is because she has also written the Redway Series. I reviewed the first one in the series a few weeks ago. Those are historical romance, this is anything but. This is the first in her “Rockmond PD Mystery” series. This is the tale for Jaso Mateo. Hard working officer in a Missing Person’s Unit. He has a lovely girlfriend, Charlotte McBain. Cool blonde, knows her computers. They make a lovely, if fiery couple. Jaso is a great guy. He loves Charlotte, but he also loves his friends and family. And he protects those he loves.
Charlotte also works on the Missing Person’s Unit. Sharp, smart and a bit quirky Charlotte holds a secret from Jaso she is sure will ruin their relationship. She wants so very much to tell him, but is terrified that it will end their love.
Early one morning, after a late night argument and make up sex (the sex in this book is explicit, though not over the top, Jaso gets a call. It is from his friend Jimena. At one time they were engaged, but Jimena threw Jaso over for her now husband. She is crying, telling him her husband has left her for the last time. She needs him, she is along and afraid. Charlotte is understanding and tells Jaso she will not stand in the way if Jimena is who he wants. He doesn’t want her, he stopped loving her a long time ago, he wants Charlotte, but he goes to comfort Jimena as a friend and to make sure her daughter is alright.
When he comes home, there are police officers everywhere and Charlotte is no where to be found. Where is she? How does one find the person who finds Missing Persons? What if she doesn’t want to be found, what if she’s dead? The list of suspects grows with friends, enemies, lovers and exes. It is a deadly game, but someone has to play and Jaso wants to so very badly, but he has a bad temper and a drinking problem.
I really liked this novel. It is a good, solid story and fast paced. There is a lot of time jumping here with flashbacks, resent and old and the main story. I believe it could have done with a few less flashbacks, but this barely detracted from the story.
If you are looking for a good psychological romp, Ctrl+Alt+Deleted is for you!
Until tomorrow I remain, your humble Book Dragon, Drakon T. Longwitten
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review
July 5, 2020
Very cute! I loved Charlotte and Matt, and honestly I'd love to see more of their story!
I did wish there was a bit more techy stuff in it, especially with the cover and title, but all in all I enjoyed it.
I did wish there was a bit more techy stuff in it, especially with the cover and title, but all in all I enjoyed it.
January 25, 2019
This book pulls you in from the first page. I could't put it down until I devoured the whole book. One minute they are laying on the bed after a mind-blowing make up sex and the next minute, she's missing. It keeps you guessing till the end. I also like the diversity of the characters. It add flavor to the story. The only thing I didn't quite like about this book is the back and forth between the past and the present, jumping from six hours earlier to two years earlier is distracting sometime which is why I gave it a four star. It doesn't take away from enjoying the book as some readers may actually like the back and forth time jump.
March 12, 2019
Disclaimer- I received this book as a gift from author. To be honest I am not a very big fan of erotic thrillers, but that being said, I did enjoy the story. The character built-up is nice and easy to follow. The main protagonist, Mateo Jaso is a well-defined character, but I felt that the other character - Charlotte McBain would have been better. Another thing which I found a bit difficult to follow is too many back and forth between the past and the present. The author did a good job in story-building which keeps the reader involved. I did enjoy reading about a different culture - Puerto Rican. Overall the book was a nice read and I would recommend it.
December 19, 2019
This is my first time reading this author. I enjoyed this book. I enjoyed the character development the most and getting to know them. I was only half surprised at the end. And I found the sex scenes “spicy” with the Spanish to go along with it. I really look forward to the rest of the series.
January 6, 2021
A new friend
OMG I am so glad that I found you thru Facebook and Heather, I didn’t understand all the words but I was able to guess at some of it. This is an awesome start of a new thread for, can’t wait for Redway Acres!
OMG I am so glad that I found you thru Facebook and Heather, I didn’t understand all the words but I was able to guess at some of it. This is an awesome start of a new thread for, can’t wait for Redway Acres!
April 7, 2021
Gill Mather
As this was billed as a detective novel about a missing persons section of a police force, I expected a serious police novel. The word ‘Deleted’ in the title holds a menace and leads one to assume a murder or murders have taken place or will.
Instead, there are no deaths (apart from a fleeting reference in one of the novel’s many flashbacks) and the novel is largely an account of the two main characters’ sex life in substantial details and the progress of their relationship. This, and the frequent references to sex drives and sexual frustration, seemed to drive the story and largely explain the plot.
There was precious little detection going on. In fact the missing person basically located herself from her place of incarceration by using her amazing technical skills. Meanwhile, the police were faffing about in a disorganised, directionless way, that is when anything was said at all about the investigation, even though sections and chapters were headed ‘investigation’. Mostly, the book indulged in flashback about the couple’s sex life.
The flashbacks themselves and the continual see-sawing backwards and forwards from the past to the present was confusing, especially in the first few chapters when the reader would like a firm basis on which to judge the book. This see-sawing continued throughout the book, leading to a lack of continuity in the reading and being quite annoying.
When the missing person is located by her own efforts, the ensuing action to get to her in time isn’t at all clear. One is left trying to piece together what’s actually happening.
The motives given for the abduction are weak or at least are not well explored. Both the culprits would have to be unhinged to do what they did but there’s no significant attempt to explore their psyches in a way that, well-written, might have provided some interest and suspense. Their motivations instead are largely assumed.
There’s no forensic details as one would have expected and hoped for in a serious police detective novel.
The dialogue is glib and over-explanatory, with a lack of contractions (it’s, who’s, et cetera) in an irritating way making it sound robotic and distracting the reader.
The way in which the main characters are oft expressed to be monumentally beautiful, handsome, talented, intelligent and so on is nauseating. There’s also some sort of Latino machismo going on. Wolf-whistling, touching bottoms, references to buns, comments in the workplace which wouldn’t surely be tolerated in practice and give the novel a flavour of the sixties/seventies when it’s supposed to be contemporary.
All in all it’s a ludicrously unintelligent read, a blatant and very obvious attempt to titillate, right down to the female character wearing no underwear under her skimpy dress in one of the final scenes notwithstanding that she’s on stage singing at one point and dances erotically and publicly with the male character.
Sorry, I can't give it more than 2 stars.
As this was billed as a detective novel about a missing persons section of a police force, I expected a serious police novel. The word ‘Deleted’ in the title holds a menace and leads one to assume a murder or murders have taken place or will.
Instead, there are no deaths (apart from a fleeting reference in one of the novel’s many flashbacks) and the novel is largely an account of the two main characters’ sex life in substantial details and the progress of their relationship. This, and the frequent references to sex drives and sexual frustration, seemed to drive the story and largely explain the plot.
There was precious little detection going on. In fact the missing person basically located herself from her place of incarceration by using her amazing technical skills. Meanwhile, the police were faffing about in a disorganised, directionless way, that is when anything was said at all about the investigation, even though sections and chapters were headed ‘investigation’. Mostly, the book indulged in flashback about the couple’s sex life.
The flashbacks themselves and the continual see-sawing backwards and forwards from the past to the present was confusing, especially in the first few chapters when the reader would like a firm basis on which to judge the book. This see-sawing continued throughout the book, leading to a lack of continuity in the reading and being quite annoying.
When the missing person is located by her own efforts, the ensuing action to get to her in time isn’t at all clear. One is left trying to piece together what’s actually happening.
The motives given for the abduction are weak or at least are not well explored. Both the culprits would have to be unhinged to do what they did but there’s no significant attempt to explore their psyches in a way that, well-written, might have provided some interest and suspense. Their motivations instead are largely assumed.
There’s no forensic details as one would have expected and hoped for in a serious police detective novel.
The dialogue is glib and over-explanatory, with a lack of contractions (it’s, who’s, et cetera) in an irritating way making it sound robotic and distracting the reader.
The way in which the main characters are oft expressed to be monumentally beautiful, handsome, talented, intelligent and so on is nauseating. There’s also some sort of Latino machismo going on. Wolf-whistling, touching bottoms, references to buns, comments in the workplace which wouldn’t surely be tolerated in practice and give the novel a flavour of the sixties/seventies when it’s supposed to be contemporary.
All in all it’s a ludicrously unintelligent read, a blatant and very obvious attempt to titillate, right down to the female character wearing no underwear under her skimpy dress in one of the final scenes notwithstanding that she’s on stage singing at one point and dances erotically and publicly with the male character.
Sorry, I can't give it more than 2 stars.
July 26, 2022
It’s always difficult as a reader, I think, to find a review of a mystery novel that gives enough detail to help you make an informed decision about whether to go ahead and read, without giving away the mystery. In this review I am treading on the side of caution as I personally loathe it when someone gives the ending away, but I would say the “free sample” of the story on Amazon is a very fair representation of the author’s style of writing, which is sustained throughout.
Trish Butler’s detective / mystery novel Ctrl+Alt+Deleted tackles the established crime drama format with a contemporary focus. Detective Matteo Jaso (Matt) works on the Missing Persons Unit, but his work comes far too close to home when his lover Charlotte disappears, presumed taken. Technology plays a part in the story throughout, hence the title.
The author makes clear attempts in Ctrl+Alt+Deleted to present a story world which is more diverse and inclusive than many old school detective novels. Whilst the main language of the story is English, the main character’s family speaks Spanish, and Spanish is used naturalistically (unlike Charlotte Brontë who, in Vilette, included long passages of French with no translation, there is a gloss available to non-Spanish speakers, so there’s no danger of not following). The author also presents more equity in gender roles and, what I particularly liked was, she did not default to the stereotypical profile of perp.
This is an enjoyable read for a reader who likes bedroom scenes spicy and detailed, and also for someone who enjoys the kind of police procedural drama which moves back and forth along the timeline, in the solving of the crime.
Ctrl+Alt+Deleted is listed as the first of the author’s Rockmond PD Mysteries and I would be interested to find out what happens next.
Trish Butler’s detective / mystery novel Ctrl+Alt+Deleted tackles the established crime drama format with a contemporary focus. Detective Matteo Jaso (Matt) works on the Missing Persons Unit, but his work comes far too close to home when his lover Charlotte disappears, presumed taken. Technology plays a part in the story throughout, hence the title.
The author makes clear attempts in Ctrl+Alt+Deleted to present a story world which is more diverse and inclusive than many old school detective novels. Whilst the main language of the story is English, the main character’s family speaks Spanish, and Spanish is used naturalistically (unlike Charlotte Brontë who, in Vilette, included long passages of French with no translation, there is a gloss available to non-Spanish speakers, so there’s no danger of not following). The author also presents more equity in gender roles and, what I particularly liked was, she did not default to the stereotypical profile of perp.
This is an enjoyable read for a reader who likes bedroom scenes spicy and detailed, and also for someone who enjoys the kind of police procedural drama which moves back and forth along the timeline, in the solving of the crime.
Ctrl+Alt+Deleted is listed as the first of the author’s Rockmond PD Mysteries and I would be interested to find out what happens next.
August 29, 2019
While it didn't completely WOW me, this was still a good story with interesting characters. I loved the twists and turns, and right when I thought that someone was guilty of something, I was wrong. lol
The H - Matt - came across as a real person with issues, and the h - Charlotte - seemed almost too perfect in her goodness. Her quirkiness did help to tone down what I saw as a semi-saintly figure though. They were both likeable characters
I loved the HEA, and I'd like to see more of this couple, along with their friends and co-workers, in a future book.
3.5 stars.
The H - Matt - came across as a real person with issues, and the h - Charlotte - seemed almost too perfect in her goodness. Her quirkiness did help to tone down what I saw as a semi-saintly figure though. They were both likeable characters
I loved the HEA, and I'd like to see more of this couple, along with their friends and co-workers, in a future book.
3.5 stars.
September 27, 2020
An ok book as the opener to a new series. I liked most of the characters, so could see reading more to see what happens next to each of them. The non-linear storytelling was a bit distracting at times, but overall al good tale.
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