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Nichelle Clarke Crime Thriller #1-3
Nichelle Clarke #1-3: Box Set: Front Page Fatality / Buried Leads / Small Town Spin
Books 1-3 of the Nichelle Clarke Crime Thriller series
Book 1: Front Page Fatality
When two rookie cops are killed in a fiery crash near Richmond, Virginia, crime reporter Nichelle Clarke is sent in to investigate. She assumes it will be routine, a scene like many other accidents she's covered. She's wrong.
The accident gives Nichelle a chance glimpse of an ongoing conspiracy. But proveable facts are fleeting. And as Nichelle digs deeper into the case, people and evidence begin to disappear. Someone is one step ahead of her, desperate to cover their tracks. A master criminal with a deadly secret, who will stop at nothing to keep the truth hidden...
But as she draws closer to unraveling the mystery of two dead cops, Nichelle realizes she's become the next target. Can she survive this murderous game of cat and mouse long enough to solve the mystery? Or will Nichelle fall prey to a killer?
_________________________
Book 2: Buried Leads
When an Armani-clad body turns up in a shallow forest grave, Nichelle Clarke is the first reporter on the scene. She soon discovers the victim is a tobacco lobbyist with powerful connections.
Local politicians are pushing for a quick arrest. Nichelle thinks they seem nervous. Even more so after a second victim is found dead. Nichelle's search for the killer soon uncovers a jaw-dropping trail of malfeasance and debauchery that stretches all the way to Washington, D.C. It's the kind of story that can make a crime reporter's career.
But the power players at the center of this conspiracy have everything to lose, and as Nichelle's quest for the truth nears its end, she lands squarely in the crosshairs of the killer. Can her wits alone can get her out alive, or will these secrets stay buried for good?
_________________________
Book 3: Small Town Spin
T.J. had the world in the palm of his hand. He was handsome. Popular in school. Smart. A stellar athlete. The son of superstar pro quarterback Tony Okerson, he seemed destined to follow in his father's footsteps to a career of gridiron glory.
That bright, shining dream ends when T.J.'s lifeless body is found on a rocky shoreline near his family's Chesapeake Bay home.
But as Nichelle begins to explore the facts surrounding the death, she discovers some shocking details. Something doesn't fit. And while the local sheriff wants to stamp the case a drug overdose and move on, Nichelle becomes convinced that foul play may have been involved.
To the townsfolk, Nichelle is an outsider, putting her nose where it doesn't belong. But in her experience, that's exactly where the most damning secrets are kept. And the further she follows the evidence trail, the more Nichelle realizes that this sleepy coastal village is anything but innocent...
Book 1: Front Page Fatality
When two rookie cops are killed in a fiery crash near Richmond, Virginia, crime reporter Nichelle Clarke is sent in to investigate. She assumes it will be routine, a scene like many other accidents she's covered. She's wrong.
The accident gives Nichelle a chance glimpse of an ongoing conspiracy. But proveable facts are fleeting. And as Nichelle digs deeper into the case, people and evidence begin to disappear. Someone is one step ahead of her, desperate to cover their tracks. A master criminal with a deadly secret, who will stop at nothing to keep the truth hidden...
But as she draws closer to unraveling the mystery of two dead cops, Nichelle realizes she's become the next target. Can she survive this murderous game of cat and mouse long enough to solve the mystery? Or will Nichelle fall prey to a killer?
_________________________
Book 2: Buried Leads
When an Armani-clad body turns up in a shallow forest grave, Nichelle Clarke is the first reporter on the scene. She soon discovers the victim is a tobacco lobbyist with powerful connections.
Local politicians are pushing for a quick arrest. Nichelle thinks they seem nervous. Even more so after a second victim is found dead. Nichelle's search for the killer soon uncovers a jaw-dropping trail of malfeasance and debauchery that stretches all the way to Washington, D.C. It's the kind of story that can make a crime reporter's career.
But the power players at the center of this conspiracy have everything to lose, and as Nichelle's quest for the truth nears its end, she lands squarely in the crosshairs of the killer. Can her wits alone can get her out alive, or will these secrets stay buried for good?
_________________________
Book 3: Small Town Spin
T.J. had the world in the palm of his hand. He was handsome. Popular in school. Smart. A stellar athlete. The son of superstar pro quarterback Tony Okerson, he seemed destined to follow in his father's footsteps to a career of gridiron glory.
That bright, shining dream ends when T.J.'s lifeless body is found on a rocky shoreline near his family's Chesapeake Bay home.
But as Nichelle begins to explore the facts surrounding the death, she discovers some shocking details. Something doesn't fit. And while the local sheriff wants to stamp the case a drug overdose and move on, Nichelle becomes convinced that foul play may have been involved.
To the townsfolk, Nichelle is an outsider, putting her nose where it doesn't belong. But in her experience, that's exactly where the most damning secrets are kept. And the further she follows the evidence trail, the more Nichelle realizes that this sleepy coastal village is anything but innocent...
779 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 24, 2018
5264 people are currently reading
485 people want to read
About the author
LynDee Walker
36 books647 followersLynDee Walker writes about strong women who can’t seem to stay out of trouble. Her books have appeared on finalist lists for the Agatha and International Thriller awards—and once, on the weekly Amazon Charts US national bestsellers list smack in between two of her writing heroes.
LynDee is a member of International Thriller Writers, Mystery Writers of America, and Sisters in Crime. Before she started writing fiction, LynDee was an award-winning journalist who covered everything from ribbon cuttings and high school football to capital murder trials and high level police corruption. Her work has appeared in newspapers and magazines across the United States. She has written more than 20 novels and feels lucky every day to get to play with her imaginary friends for a living.
LynDee's favorite things are family, hydrangeas, porches, beaches, and books. She lives in Richmond, Virginia, where she is working on her next novel when she's not juggling laundry, children's sports schedules, and two very happily spoiled rescue dogs.
LynDee is a member of International Thriller Writers, Mystery Writers of America, and Sisters in Crime. Before she started writing fiction, LynDee was an award-winning journalist who covered everything from ribbon cuttings and high school football to capital murder trials and high level police corruption. Her work has appeared in newspapers and magazines across the United States. She has written more than 20 novels and feels lucky every day to get to play with her imaginary friends for a living.
LynDee's favorite things are family, hydrangeas, porches, beaches, and books. She lives in Richmond, Virginia, where she is working on her next novel when she's not juggling laundry, children's sports schedules, and two very happily spoiled rescue dogs.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
October 27, 2020
Great, fun reading and plotting
Nichelle Clarke would like to be working for the Washington Post and a talking head. She is, however, a twenty something crime reporter in Richmond, VA. These three novels, the first in her series, deal with murder, corruption, Nichelle’s past and present and the difficulties in finding a good story among other twists. It is fast reading (I generally don’t read series one after the other, but found these to be so entertaining I did read them sequentially) and a great way to start a series. Her shoe fixation doesn’t hurt any either. Thanks to the author and publisher for an e-galley for an honest review.
Nichelle Clarke would like to be working for the Washington Post and a talking head. She is, however, a twenty something crime reporter in Richmond, VA. These three novels, the first in her series, deal with murder, corruption, Nichelle’s past and present and the difficulties in finding a good story among other twists. It is fast reading (I generally don’t read series one after the other, but found these to be so entertaining I did read them sequentially) and a great way to start a series. Her shoe fixation doesn’t hurt any either. Thanks to the author and publisher for an e-galley for an honest review.
September 25, 2020
"Strong set"
I've not come across this author before, and sometimes a box set is too big a step. On this occasion the writing was of a high standard, the characters are well-drawn and believable, and the pace was maintained throughout. Well worth a read.
I've not come across this author before, and sometimes a box set is too big a step. On this occasion the writing was of a high standard, the characters are well-drawn and believable, and the pace was maintained throughout. Well worth a read.
Want to read
September 14, 2020🎁FREE on Amazon today (9/14/2020)! 🎁
December 13, 2018
Great Read To Rest
When exhausted from the hustle and bustle of everyday life to a point where your brain cannot process one more piece of information that is supposed to be relevant to your life somehow; or when you are on your well deserved vacation and would like to keep it light, pick up one of these! The crime reporter Nichelle Clarke is light, funny, kind, brave and very straightforward. She won’t bother you with the depths of her soul, nor will she ask you to go ahead and solve the crimes ahead of her to be able to follow the story. You are only asked to tag along and see what happens. As a woman and being somewhat sensitive to feminist concepts and challenges, I loved Nichelle’s fearless and independent approach to her work and relationships. As a tomboy, the high end shoe, purse and clothing passion, references, and jokes of every page lost me a little... But admittedly not enough to discontinue... I imagine if I identified as a male, I probably would have a harder time... So the books are not for everyone... But may be they should be? See what I mean? I am lost a little. If you are looking for a good rest read, I would at least try one and see how it goes. Since each book reintroduces all the characters and summarizes the important aspects of key relationships, you do not necessarily need to start with the first one in the series, either. Enjoy!
When exhausted from the hustle and bustle of everyday life to a point where your brain cannot process one more piece of information that is supposed to be relevant to your life somehow; or when you are on your well deserved vacation and would like to keep it light, pick up one of these! The crime reporter Nichelle Clarke is light, funny, kind, brave and very straightforward. She won’t bother you with the depths of her soul, nor will she ask you to go ahead and solve the crimes ahead of her to be able to follow the story. You are only asked to tag along and see what happens. As a woman and being somewhat sensitive to feminist concepts and challenges, I loved Nichelle’s fearless and independent approach to her work and relationships. As a tomboy, the high end shoe, purse and clothing passion, references, and jokes of every page lost me a little... But admittedly not enough to discontinue... I imagine if I identified as a male, I probably would have a harder time... So the books are not for everyone... But may be they should be? See what I mean? I am lost a little. If you are looking for a good rest read, I would at least try one and see how it goes. Since each book reintroduces all the characters and summarizes the important aspects of key relationships, you do not necessarily need to start with the first one in the series, either. Enjoy!
February 20, 2021
Holy Headlines!
I'm a writer who gives stars (as long as it's worth 3 or higher. However i rarely write a review. A book has to be a 5 star that makes me by the next to get words and the Nichelle Clarke Crime Thrillers did just that.
Nichelle had me from the opening line of Front Page Fatality to the last line of Small Town Spin. LynDee Walker has a sure handle on bringing characters to life...no cardboard cutouts in her stories. She has also mastered the red herring technique. My only negative comment would be in regard to her character's shoe obsession. Do real reporters wear those ridiculously expensive and tall everywhere? Of course my issue could stem from the fact if I have to pay more than $30 for a pair I nearly have a strok.e 😁 So, I won't let that keep me from reading more of her wonderful writing.
PS - I love the way she's handled the multiple love interests. Tasteful and believable.
I'm a writer who gives stars (as long as it's worth 3 or higher. However i rarely write a review. A book has to be a 5 star that makes me by the next to get words and the Nichelle Clarke Crime Thrillers did just that.
Nichelle had me from the opening line of Front Page Fatality to the last line of Small Town Spin. LynDee Walker has a sure handle on bringing characters to life...no cardboard cutouts in her stories. She has also mastered the red herring technique. My only negative comment would be in regard to her character's shoe obsession. Do real reporters wear those ridiculously expensive and tall everywhere? Of course my issue could stem from the fact if I have to pay more than $30 for a pair I nearly have a strok.e 😁 So, I won't let that keep me from reading more of her wonderful writing.
PS - I love the way she's handled the multiple love interests. Tasteful and believable.
October 27, 2020
I wanted to read for 3 reasons: my name is Nichelle and who doesn’t want to read a book when the main character most likely WON’T be killed off immediately AND her shoe addiction outpaces my own and finally? I’m from VA! Newport News born and raised. First book was a great introduction to Nichelle and those in her life. Second book a nice follow up to the aftermath of 1st. However I’m kind of bummed that Ms. Walker chose not to delve more into Joey’s past and what led him to be who he is and finally 3rd book? Completely pissed that the author chose to enhance the plot of Shelby sabotaging. Nichelle, continuing an intimate relationship between boss and subordinate as the only way Shelby could succeed versus succeeding and climbing the ranks outside of nakedness/bedroom.
Why wasn’t Nichelle not able to enjoy intimacy with Kyle and Joey? It’s ok to have Shelby sleep her way up the ladder but not ok for our heroine to actually be intimate with two different men who she is attracted to physically as well as intellectually?? That was a let down.
Pros: all books were easy to read and quick reads. Good beach reading but since COVID has eluded so many beach days, I enjoyed in the comforts of my home. Great plots. Love the details re: the geographical areas of VA I-64, the various bodies of water and of course the food. The sweet Tea down south is an addiction of its own.
Why wasn’t Nichelle not able to enjoy intimacy with Kyle and Joey? It’s ok to have Shelby sleep her way up the ladder but not ok for our heroine to actually be intimate with two different men who she is attracted to physically as well as intellectually?? That was a let down.
Pros: all books were easy to read and quick reads. Good beach reading but since COVID has eluded so many beach days, I enjoyed in the comforts of my home. Great plots. Love the details re: the geographical areas of VA I-64, the various bodies of water and of course the food. The sweet Tea down south is an addiction of its own.
August 30, 2020
FRONT PAGE FATALITY-a great kick off to the Nichelle series. She's a crime reporter working on the story of a lifetime involving police, the mob, & backstabbing co workers. Who should she trust? Her boss, her police sources, the mobster, or just herself? With twists that keep you & her guessing all the way to the end
BURIED LEADS-#2 in the Nichelle series. She's up to her eyeballs in mystery and murder involving politics, old money families, dead co-eds, and taxes. She's still dealing with Shelby who's after her job. Nicey investigates her leads and gets more trouble than she bargained for. Helping along the way is super hunk/possible mobster Joey and former X boyfriend and ATF Agent Kyle. A dash of romance and a whole lot of murder splits Nichelle in all sorts of directions.
SMALL TOWN SPIN- Another great Nichelle mystery. Asked to do a favor for a friend, she looks into a high profile sports stars son's apparent suicide. Exploring a small close knit town with closed mouth people getting her story is problematic. Trusting her gut she investigates and gets more than she bargained for with too many suspects and toxicology reports that are taking forever. Also spending some time with Joey and exploring their friendship more and Kyle popping up to make her dating choices harder.
BURIED LEADS-#2 in the Nichelle series. She's up to her eyeballs in mystery and murder involving politics, old money families, dead co-eds, and taxes. She's still dealing with Shelby who's after her job. Nicey investigates her leads and gets more trouble than she bargained for. Helping along the way is super hunk/possible mobster Joey and former X boyfriend and ATF Agent Kyle. A dash of romance and a whole lot of murder splits Nichelle in all sorts of directions.
SMALL TOWN SPIN- Another great Nichelle mystery. Asked to do a favor for a friend, she looks into a high profile sports stars son's apparent suicide. Exploring a small close knit town with closed mouth people getting her story is problematic. Trusting her gut she investigates and gets more than she bargained for with too many suspects and toxicology reports that are taking forever. Also spending some time with Joey and exploring their friendship more and Kyle popping up to make her dating choices harder.
January 6, 2026
Nichelle is an investigative reporter who has a thing for high end shoes.
I would give this boxset 3 1/2 stars. Nichelle is mostly likeable, except the shoe thing can get to be a bit much as it is mentioned almost nonstop. She has a tendency to get herself into life threatening situations. She also has feelings for 2 guys, one from her past who is now a detective and one from her recent case who is possibly involved in the mob and shows up to take care of her. Again, typical for these types of books (think Stephanie Plum without the zany humor).
The stories were interesting and read more like a detective novel than a reporter, although I guess they are similar. Overall, I enjoyed the books and will read the rest of the series. I did like them more than the Faith McClellan series because I just didn't really connect with Faith.
I would give this boxset 3 1/2 stars. Nichelle is mostly likeable, except the shoe thing can get to be a bit much as it is mentioned almost nonstop. She has a tendency to get herself into life threatening situations. She also has feelings for 2 guys, one from her past who is now a detective and one from her recent case who is possibly involved in the mob and shows up to take care of her. Again, typical for these types of books (think Stephanie Plum without the zany humor).
The stories were interesting and read more like a detective novel than a reporter, although I guess they are similar. Overall, I enjoyed the books and will read the rest of the series. I did like them more than the Faith McClellan series because I just didn't really connect with Faith.
August 18, 2024
Nichelle Clarke is an amazing reporter!
I enjoyed reading Books 1-3 in the Nichelle Clarke Crime Thriller Series! In Front Page Fatality, I enjoyed the plot on who killed the officers in a boat explosion on a river. In Buried Leads, I followed the robbers who sold fraudulent tobacco products in New York State and made dirty profits. And in Small Town Spin, I was enthralled by the mystery of who poisoned a star football player and his girlfriend, who were high school students in a small town. LynDee Walker has created a reporter who has a busy life reporting crimes in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
I enjoyed reading Books 1-3 in the Nichelle Clarke Crime Thriller Series! In Front Page Fatality, I enjoyed the plot on who killed the officers in a boat explosion on a river. In Buried Leads, I followed the robbers who sold fraudulent tobacco products in New York State and made dirty profits. And in Small Town Spin, I was enthralled by the mystery of who poisoned a star football player and his girlfriend, who were high school students in a small town. LynDee Walker has created a reporter who has a busy life reporting crimes in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
November 7, 2019
This was my introduction to Nichelle Clarke and I did enjoy these first three books in the series. I'm not sure that the main character is actually in the right profession, and that was mentioned in the books several times, but I'll let that one go. I was surprised at how cooperative the police were with her (as told in the books), but it seems like she has earned that in the manner in which she has helped them as well.
I would recommend these first three books. I think the reader would enjoy the different approach taken by this author for a crime suspense.
I would recommend these first three books. I think the reader would enjoy the different approach taken by this author for a crime suspense.
January 24, 2022
Crime Thriller x 3
Nichelle "Nicey" Clarke is a "kickass" reporter for the Richmond Telegraph. Her beats are the crimes and court house scenes. She provides her readers with excellent articles from both areas. However, when she feels that there is more to a crime story, she doesn't stop investigating until she has the whole story. Even if it means she gets hurt.
Add an exboyfriend, who's a Special Agent and the flirtatious interest of a Mafia crime boss, you have an you have a great thriller.
Nichelle "Nicey" Clarke is a "kickass" reporter for the Richmond Telegraph. Her beats are the crimes and court house scenes. She provides her readers with excellent articles from both areas. However, when she feels that there is more to a crime story, she doesn't stop investigating until she has the whole story. Even if it means she gets hurt.
Add an exboyfriend, who's a Special Agent and the flirtatious interest of a Mafia crime boss, you have an you have a great thriller.
March 2, 2020
Amazing plots!
There is an incredible attention to detail in each of these books. It is like working a giant puzzle. A small clue here and there and then wham! You don't even see it coming. I love the characters and the underlying love story. I have no idea who she will choose. Nichelle is fearless and some how gets the answers she needs to pull the story together. I am really enjoying this series.
There is an incredible attention to detail in each of these books. It is like working a giant puzzle. A small clue here and there and then wham! You don't even see it coming. I love the characters and the underlying love story. I have no idea who she will choose. Nichelle is fearless and some how gets the answers she needs to pull the story together. I am really enjoying this series.
February 2, 2021
Have read 1-3, and bought books 4-6 to read in the future. Important to read in order because there are references to prior action in the previous books. The crimes are a bit unusual and interesting. Normally I prefer to use Libby ( free library app in our state) for books so they’re free to read, but I’ve been able to use Amazon digital support to reduce the costs, since so many books aren’t in our libraries.
September 22, 2020
I love a gripping thriller series and was looking for a new one to dive into when this freebie came along. From the first page, I was hooked! Nichelle Clarke is a likable MC with a few faults. The plot moves at a fast pace with plenty of suspense to keep my heart racing. I can't wait to read more. Highly recommend!
My Rating: 5 stars
My Rating: 5 stars
August 11, 2022
Great box set
These stories kept you guessing until the end. Loved the main character Nichelle. These stories gave you insight into what an investigative reporter goes through., although I think this one went beyond duty. Can't wait to read the next book and see how her romance with Joey works out.
These stories kept you guessing until the end. Loved the main character Nichelle. These stories gave you insight into what an investigative reporter goes through., although I think this one went beyond duty. Can't wait to read the next book and see how her romance with Joey works out.
December 11, 2018
Not bad, all things considered. Too many shoe references. Author could do a little more research. Discussed a high school senior as being a National Merit Finalist, but timeframe was months before they are named. If you make a specific real world reference, make it correctly.
March 6, 2020
These are a fun read. Following in my pattern of string female leads these introduce Nichelle. She’s a kick ass reporter with a good sense of people and a hunch for news. I read all 3 but you can definitely read them as stand alone stories. Dig in!
September 23, 2020
Nichelle Clark, Books 1-3
These stories are sometimes a bit scary, sometimes danger-filled, sometimes funny, and sometimes romantic, but always very, very puzzling. I thoroughly enjoyed them!! I will be looking for more books by this author!
These stories are sometimes a bit scary, sometimes danger-filled, sometimes funny, and sometimes romantic, but always very, very puzzling. I thoroughly enjoyed them!! I will be looking for more books by this author!
September 27, 2020
Solved the Cases but Different Suspect
Each case was interesting as were the characters especially the main character reporter and her 2 makes interested in her. The stories are unique and challenging and each an good read
Each case was interesting as were the characters especially the main character reporter and her 2 makes interested in her. The stories are unique and challenging and each an good read
October 7, 2020
Utterly spellbinding
A triple dose of LynDee Walker's spellbinding writing. I was utterly enthralled throughout the three novels. LynDee has the magic touch when it comes to mystery thrillers and I look forward to reading subsequent titles in the Nichelle Clarke series.
A triple dose of LynDee Walker's spellbinding writing. I was utterly enthralled throughout the three novels. LynDee has the magic touch when it comes to mystery thrillers and I look forward to reading subsequent titles in the Nichelle Clarke series.
October 10, 2020
Great Series
I’m delighted to have found this series. The characters are great. The plots are twisty right up until the end when it all falls in place, but you are kept guessing until then. The books are engaging and you get lost in the story. They are that good.
I’m delighted to have found this series. The characters are great. The plots are twisty right up until the end when it all falls in place, but you are kept guessing until then. The books are engaging and you get lost in the story. They are that good.
October 12, 2020
Fabulous series!
Absolutely great writing! You'll love the main character as her crime reporting takes her through Richmond and surrounding areas. I could not put these down and can't wait to start the forth book.
Absolutely great writing! You'll love the main character as her crime reporting takes her through Richmond and surrounding areas. I could not put these down and can't wait to start the forth book.
October 28, 2020
Fast-paced and Twisty
These three books are action packed, with many twists and turns. The characters are well developed and move from story to story. The bad guys are there from the start but not always recognizable. You will enjoy the trip.
These three books are action packed, with many twists and turns. The characters are well developed and move from story to story. The bad guys are there from the start but not always recognizable. You will enjoy the trip.
July 23, 2021
Don’t plan to stop!
Walker has a way with building a story and presenting characters that live and breathe into the narrative. Excellent plot, lead characters and twists on who did what!
Walker has a way with building a story and presenting characters that live and breathe into the narrative. Excellent plot, lead characters and twists on who did what!
September 8, 2021
I thought that this series was interesting. The reason for the rating is that the author uses the name of our Savior, Jesus, in vain many times throughout the three books. The stories were interesting, but as I was going through book 3, I just got tired of that and returned the book. Too bad!
January 7, 2024
Well written
I read 3 stories back to back. I like the writing style. The only problem I have is that once I started I could not put them down. I will definitely read more from this author
I read 3 stories back to back. I like the writing style. The only problem I have is that once I started I could not put them down. I will definitely read more from this author
December 18, 2018
very entertaining, well paced series with plenty of twists in turns as a female reporter seeks the truth to several murder cases - where all are not as they seem.
June 14, 2019
Great beach/summer read.
August 9, 2019
Terrific stories!
September 7, 2019
If like Stephanie Plum books, you'll like this series, as well. Humorous, good characters and plot lines.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews