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Sydney Valentine #1
The Protector
I’ve been told I always think the worst of people. I believe "the worst" is the most honest part of all of us.
I'm Detective Sydney Valentine and my next case begins when I arrive at the grisly crime scene of a murdered social worker.
When the nude, mutilated body of a juvenile court judge is found in a park, and a single mother is slayed by a hit-and-run driver, I discover that someone with a sinister connection to Child Protective Services is killing people and leaving cryptic clues behind.
As I hunt for the perpetrator, the target on my back grows. I must protect myself, my family, and other potential victims before the killer strikes again.
I have no choice.
I might not get a second chance.
What are readers saying?
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ "Nice twist at the end! If you are a true mystery fan, you will definitely like this book. Good start to a new series."
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ "This book had me from page 1."
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ “Really fantastic! Kept me guessing, trying to figure out who the killer was. I thought I had it figured out but at the end the author threw me a monkey wrench!!!"
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ "Gimme a little ASS-KICKING music. Author is a great wordsmith. I like a real BADA$$ protagonist and she gives us one."
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ “Strong characters, tight plot keeps you guessing until the end. Knowing WHO dunit is a surprise you don't expect or see coming.”
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ "I am on my third book by this author and love every one of them and can't put them down. I love these books. Hate the thought of finishing the third one already. Hope she writes many more of these. A very talented author."
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ "I've read a lot of whodunits, but this mystery had me guessing throughout the entire book. I read til 4 a.m. because I couldn't put it down; I just had to know who the murderer was. I didn't figure it out til the very last pages and that's what makes a great story. This is the first time I've read this author and I must say, "Hats off to you, Ms. Davis. I can't wait to read the next book in the series!"
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ “I couldn't put it down! The characters were easy to relate to. I would recommend this to everyone.”
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ “Okay...if you love eve dallas, of the JD Robb series, then you will f$!/=ING love this book!!!! Let me tell you she is like Eve Dallas, on steroids... cannot be happier to have read this book!”
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ “This is my first Danielle L. Davis book and she just gained a new fan! I became immersed in the story, constantly trying to figure out who the killer might be and what the scrabble letters, left at each scene, spelled out. The storyline was unique, held my attention so well that I found myself reading well into the wee hours of the morning. The characters were well developed, quirky & interesting. I really liked the sarcasm, side remarks and banter between Detective Valentine and Bernie. After finishing The Protector I can't wait to read more in this series!”
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ “OMG! Ms. Davis thank you for writing this amazing book! I read this book in two days. I love when I read a book and the author makes it difficult to figure out the ending.
I'm Detective Sydney Valentine and my next case begins when I arrive at the grisly crime scene of a murdered social worker.
When the nude, mutilated body of a juvenile court judge is found in a park, and a single mother is slayed by a hit-and-run driver, I discover that someone with a sinister connection to Child Protective Services is killing people and leaving cryptic clues behind.
As I hunt for the perpetrator, the target on my back grows. I must protect myself, my family, and other potential victims before the killer strikes again.
I have no choice.
I might not get a second chance.
What are readers saying?
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ "Nice twist at the end! If you are a true mystery fan, you will definitely like this book. Good start to a new series."
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ "This book had me from page 1."
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ “Really fantastic! Kept me guessing, trying to figure out who the killer was. I thought I had it figured out but at the end the author threw me a monkey wrench!!!"
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ "Gimme a little ASS-KICKING music. Author is a great wordsmith. I like a real BADA$$ protagonist and she gives us one."
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ “Strong characters, tight plot keeps you guessing until the end. Knowing WHO dunit is a surprise you don't expect or see coming.”
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ "I am on my third book by this author and love every one of them and can't put them down. I love these books. Hate the thought of finishing the third one already. Hope she writes many more of these. A very talented author."
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ "I've read a lot of whodunits, but this mystery had me guessing throughout the entire book. I read til 4 a.m. because I couldn't put it down; I just had to know who the murderer was. I didn't figure it out til the very last pages and that's what makes a great story. This is the first time I've read this author and I must say, "Hats off to you, Ms. Davis. I can't wait to read the next book in the series!"
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ “I couldn't put it down! The characters were easy to relate to. I would recommend this to everyone.”
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ “Okay...if you love eve dallas, of the JD Robb series, then you will f$!/=ING love this book!!!! Let me tell you she is like Eve Dallas, on steroids... cannot be happier to have read this book!”
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ “This is my first Danielle L. Davis book and she just gained a new fan! I became immersed in the story, constantly trying to figure out who the killer might be and what the scrabble letters, left at each scene, spelled out. The storyline was unique, held my attention so well that I found myself reading well into the wee hours of the morning. The characters were well developed, quirky & interesting. I really liked the sarcasm, side remarks and banter between Detective Valentine and Bernie. After finishing The Protector I can't wait to read more in this series!”
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ “OMG! Ms. Davis thank you for writing this amazing book! I read this book in two days. I love when I read a book and the author makes it difficult to figure out the ending.
338 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 1, 2014
797 people are currently reading
799 people want to read
About the author
Danielle Lenee Davis
8 books12 followersWhen you're not writing, how do you spend your time? Eating chocolate. Okay, seriously? I'm usually working at my day job, reading, or helping my daughter with her homework. People who know me know that I'm not kidding about the chocolate. :-)
How do you discover the ebooks you read? I search online or friends tell me if they've read something they enjoyed. Otherwise, I wait until a book title comes to me in a dream. Really.
Do you remember the first story you ever wrote? Yes! I wrote it many years ago. It wasn't even a story. It was a scene and I thought it was great. It wasn't.
What is your writing process? When I come up with an idea, I do some research to flesh it out. If I decide it will make an interesting book, I start jotting down plot points. Once I get that, I note what I think should happen in each chapter. It's just a couple of sentences. Then, I elaborate on that and include a sentence or two about the scenes in the chapter. Okay, we're going back to the dream again, here. But, I'm serious this time. :-) Sometimes, when I'm driving to or from work, I sort of daydream. I think most of us do that. From time to time, when I daydream, thoughts of my book come to me and the characters start talking in my head. When that happens while I'm driving I grab my mini digital recorder and speak into it. I get the same thoughts when I'm in bed trying to fall asleep. I usually turn on the light and start writing. And there you have it.
Do you remember the first story you ever read, and the impact it had on you? Uh, no. No, I don't. Now that the question has been asked, I'm feeling a bit sad that I don't remember. Okay, life goes on. I'm over it. Next question.
How do you approach cover design? For my first cover, I printed out online book covers of the authors I enjoy reading. I looked at the covers of the books I own. I studied the opinions of book designers on what made a good cover. Since I'm sure nobody would take a second look at a book cover I drew, I browsed stock images. A LOT of stock images. I wanted an image that created an emotional reaction in me. I think if it does that for me, it may also do it for a reader browsing for books. I used a font that was recommended for the type of book I wrote. For the cover of my second book, I had an idea in mind and went back to the stock images. Hopefully, that book (Criminal Negligence) will be ready by the end of 2014. If it's not, well, then it's not. Shoot me.
What do you read for pleasure? Mysteries/Suspense. I like my heart to race. Well, except if it involves running. I don't want that. In a book, I like trying to figure out what's going on before the author tells me. If I can't figure out who did the dirty deed and the story is compelling, I'll read that author again. In fact, I'll seek out their next book and probably buy all of the series. I prefer to read series.
What is your e-reading device of choice? Currently, it's the Kindle 6" E Ink. The screen isn't very big, but you can only read one word at a time anyway, right?
Describe your desk. Huh? My desk? Really? Well, the surface is too small. I have an HP Notebook with a wireless keyboard and mouse. There's a lot of paper on the desk. Too much. There's also a smoke detector sitting on it that needs to be attached to the ceiling. I'm procrastinating. I may regret that. Note to self: Put up the smoke detector!
Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing? I'm an Army brat and grew up all over, I guess you could say. I think the travelling enabled me to be around different types of people. That's a good thing. I'm observant of people and that helps with writing.
What motivated you to become an indie author? I never sent out query letters. Nor did I try to seek an agent. It's about control. I wanted to do the cover MY way. I wanted to make my own deadlines.
What is the greatest joy of writing for you? Telling stories. Solitude. Eating chocolate while I write. :-
How do you discover the ebooks you read? I search online or friends tell me if they've read something they enjoyed. Otherwise, I wait until a book title comes to me in a dream. Really.
Do you remember the first story you ever wrote? Yes! I wrote it many years ago. It wasn't even a story. It was a scene and I thought it was great. It wasn't.
What is your writing process? When I come up with an idea, I do some research to flesh it out. If I decide it will make an interesting book, I start jotting down plot points. Once I get that, I note what I think should happen in each chapter. It's just a couple of sentences. Then, I elaborate on that and include a sentence or two about the scenes in the chapter. Okay, we're going back to the dream again, here. But, I'm serious this time. :-) Sometimes, when I'm driving to or from work, I sort of daydream. I think most of us do that. From time to time, when I daydream, thoughts of my book come to me and the characters start talking in my head. When that happens while I'm driving I grab my mini digital recorder and speak into it. I get the same thoughts when I'm in bed trying to fall asleep. I usually turn on the light and start writing. And there you have it.
Do you remember the first story you ever read, and the impact it had on you? Uh, no. No, I don't. Now that the question has been asked, I'm feeling a bit sad that I don't remember. Okay, life goes on. I'm over it. Next question.
How do you approach cover design? For my first cover, I printed out online book covers of the authors I enjoy reading. I looked at the covers of the books I own. I studied the opinions of book designers on what made a good cover. Since I'm sure nobody would take a second look at a book cover I drew, I browsed stock images. A LOT of stock images. I wanted an image that created an emotional reaction in me. I think if it does that for me, it may also do it for a reader browsing for books. I used a font that was recommended for the type of book I wrote. For the cover of my second book, I had an idea in mind and went back to the stock images. Hopefully, that book (Criminal Negligence) will be ready by the end of 2014. If it's not, well, then it's not. Shoot me.
What do you read for pleasure? Mysteries/Suspense. I like my heart to race. Well, except if it involves running. I don't want that. In a book, I like trying to figure out what's going on before the author tells me. If I can't figure out who did the dirty deed and the story is compelling, I'll read that author again. In fact, I'll seek out their next book and probably buy all of the series. I prefer to read series.
What is your e-reading device of choice? Currently, it's the Kindle 6" E Ink. The screen isn't very big, but you can only read one word at a time anyway, right?
Describe your desk. Huh? My desk? Really? Well, the surface is too small. I have an HP Notebook with a wireless keyboard and mouse. There's a lot of paper on the desk. Too much. There's also a smoke detector sitting on it that needs to be attached to the ceiling. I'm procrastinating. I may regret that. Note to self: Put up the smoke detector!
Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing? I'm an Army brat and grew up all over, I guess you could say. I think the travelling enabled me to be around different types of people. That's a good thing. I'm observant of people and that helps with writing.
What motivated you to become an indie author? I never sent out query letters. Nor did I try to seek an agent. It's about control. I wanted to do the cover MY way. I wanted to make my own deadlines.
What is the greatest joy of writing for you? Telling stories. Solitude. Eating chocolate while I write. :-
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
May 6, 2019
Good, but not great
A good story, but not great. The characters are interesting and Sydney's character is well developed. I will probably continue the series. Still worthwhile and recommended.
A good story, but not great. The characters are interesting and Sydney's character is well developed. I will probably continue the series. Still worthwhile and recommended.
March 15, 2016
The Protector was an excellent book. It moved at a fast parameter storyline was very interesting. The characters are developed and very likeable. Sydney Valentine is a great character. She's a feisty, red headed and smart mouthed detective. Her partner Bernie is troubled by a shooting in which he killed a twelve year old kid. The deceased twelve year old boy had killed a convenient store worker in an earlier robbery. Even though the killing was justified, Bernie feels that there should be something else he could have done.
Bernie and Valentine are trying to solve a under where the victim is left with scrabble letters on or near the bodies. Valentine becomes targeted in this excellent under mystery mayhem. All the while, her husband has become addicted to prescription drugs. Plus, there was the underlying sexual tension between the two detectives. I loved the book...very well developed story. What I loved most was it was proofed and edited before it was released. I wasn't caught up in bad spelling and words that had been automatically changed to a different word. Excellent book!
Bernie and Valentine are trying to solve a under where the victim is left with scrabble letters on or near the bodies. Valentine becomes targeted in this excellent under mystery mayhem. All the while, her husband has become addicted to prescription drugs. Plus, there was the underlying sexual tension between the two detectives. I loved the book...very well developed story. What I loved most was it was proofed and edited before it was released. I wasn't caught up in bad spelling and words that had been automatically changed to a different word. Excellent book!
February 9, 2017
I loved this book - from it's warm characters to the captivating plotline to the surprise twist ending that I totally didn't see coming.
The character of Sydney Valentine is totally kick-arse and independent, although she concedes with her sister's wish for her to begin online dating - with disastrous results. The police characters meshed really well together and Sydney's often sarcastic comebacks were amusing. A genuinely enjoyable read.
The character of Sydney Valentine is totally kick-arse and independent, although she concedes with her sister's wish for her to begin online dating - with disastrous results. The police characters meshed really well together and Sydney's often sarcastic comebacks were amusing. A genuinely enjoyable read.
April 9, 2019
I only got as far as 20% into this and I've given up with it. The writing is quite juvenile in places, I thought and also quite fractured....
What also greatly irritated me were the use of American acronyms. I had no idea what an MSW-Supervisor was and what CSS is (and X-Ray only gave a definition for CPS). I didn't know what spectator pumps were and this sentence, "That growl shot my poppin' fresh grandma image all to hell" just means nothing to me !! It's possibly American pop culture unknown to us here in the UK......the same as Shaq......I had to Google this, too......it made me lose the will to live just trying to translate this stuff.
I don't believe any police officer would let a murder victim's co-worker into her office and then let her pick up and open said victim's briefcase !! She also refers to a photo of herself on a dating website in a bikini stating that "....they'll think I can swim" which is just bizarre and talks about leaving her colleague "standing by the car with a stupid grin on his smug face" which is a pretty immature description.
There was no explanation for the police interviewing just 2 of the victim's colleagues, neither of whom had worked with her directly (??) and then they return the following day to interview another co-worker they had met the previous day but didn't interview, then !!! I found it all just too fractured, baffling and too much like hard work to read.
However, I didn't spot any spelling mistakes or punctuation errors so I gave it an additional star for this, which I always find commendable.
What also greatly irritated me were the use of American acronyms. I had no idea what an MSW-Supervisor was and what CSS is (and X-Ray only gave a definition for CPS). I didn't know what spectator pumps were and this sentence, "That growl shot my poppin' fresh grandma image all to hell" just means nothing to me !! It's possibly American pop culture unknown to us here in the UK......the same as Shaq......I had to Google this, too......it made me lose the will to live just trying to translate this stuff.
I don't believe any police officer would let a murder victim's co-worker into her office and then let her pick up and open said victim's briefcase !! She also refers to a photo of herself on a dating website in a bikini stating that "....they'll think I can swim" which is just bizarre and talks about leaving her colleague "standing by the car with a stupid grin on his smug face" which is a pretty immature description.
There was no explanation for the police interviewing just 2 of the victim's colleagues, neither of whom had worked with her directly (??) and then they return the following day to interview another co-worker they had met the previous day but didn't interview, then !!! I found it all just too fractured, baffling and too much like hard work to read.
However, I didn't spot any spelling mistakes or punctuation errors so I gave it an additional star for this, which I always find commendable.
May 30, 2017
This is the beginning to a new series and I think it started off very well! Loved the main character, Sydney Valentine as she is smart, funny and feisty. Love the banter between her and her partner. Really good storyline that kept you guessing until the end. Looking forward to reading more of this series.
I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
April 27, 2019
Twisted
This story is quite interesting, it has a lot of curbs to keep you guessing. Just when you think you have a idea who the killer is, your guess is wrong. The ending is the twister that will have you not able to put down u til you're finished. This is an excellent read.
This story is quite interesting, it has a lot of curbs to keep you guessing. Just when you think you have a idea who the killer is, your guess is wrong. The ending is the twister that will have you not able to put down u til you're finished. This is an excellent read.
March 28, 2017
review on amazon
May 4, 2019
The Protector
I do love flawed and intelligent main characters. The plot kept me guessing and I enjoyed the twists and turns.
I do love flawed and intelligent main characters. The plot kept me guessing and I enjoyed the twists and turns.
February 25, 2014
This is a great read! Sydney Valentine is a kick-butt cop who investigates murders, has great abs, and is totally fried when her sis gets her to sign on to a dating service. Oh yeah, meanwhile she has to find out who's killing people and stuffing Scrabble letters in their mouths. And the ante is going up...!
It's a great police romp and the ending actually surprised me. I'm GOOD at guessing whodunnit!
You get points, Danielle!
Mary Rosenblum
It's a great police romp and the ending actually surprised me. I'm GOOD at guessing whodunnit!
You get points, Danielle!
Mary Rosenblum
December 14, 2016
It's ok, but the story leaves the reader wanting.
Unfortunately the story just didn't have a believability to it. The main character seemed to spend too much time eating at Sizzler, eating donuts, and driving all over So. Cal., without much of a plan. If the police wasted that much time in real life wandering around playing catch up we would all be in trouble. Hopefully the next book will be better.
Unfortunately the story just didn't have a believability to it. The main character seemed to spend too much time eating at Sizzler, eating donuts, and driving all over So. Cal., without much of a plan. If the police wasted that much time in real life wandering around playing catch up we would all be in trouble. Hopefully the next book will be better.
January 15, 2019
Tough to get through
I didn’t really like any of the characters. They were shallow and I figured out what was going on at the very beginning. The dialogue was repetitive and stilted. I think the characters could have used a lot more depth, I kept getting them mixed up because there weren’t many defining characteristics for any of them. I got through it. It could have been a better story, recycled idea done badly.
I didn’t really like any of the characters. They were shallow and I figured out what was going on at the very beginning. The dialogue was repetitive and stilted. I think the characters could have used a lot more depth, I kept getting them mixed up because there weren’t many defining characteristics for any of them. I got through it. It could have been a better story, recycled idea done badly.
August 30, 2015
Nice twisted ending. I didn't see that coming. Kept me wondering who the psycho was through to the end.
Writing was't all that great but it kept me going on to see who had done the dirty deeds.
If you like endings that aren't apparent while you're reading, then this book will satisfy.
Writing was't all that great but it kept me going on to see who had done the dirty deeds.
If you like endings that aren't apparent while you're reading, then this book will satisfy.
August 14, 2017
This book was given to me by Instafreebie. I'd really love to put 3 to 4 stars but I can't. I've already read a lot of thriller book , and I'm sorry to say that this book doesn't stir my feeling. I can't point out the exact reason but there is lack of something.
July 30, 2023
Danielle Lenee Davis is off an running with a promising series, should the next Sydney Valentine books deliver as much as this one did: interesting characters, an unusual series of victims, and plenty of possible suspects to keep readers guessing.
I read the entire book, which says a lot these days. I'm so bored with drunk cops and predictable situations that I welcomed Sydney and her companionable partner Bernie, their give-and-take about their personal lives.
The four-star rating is because the book could have been a little less focused on the main plot and had spent a little more space on the characters. For example, Bernie showed up early on without a last name nor title nor explanation so his role wasn't clear at first: forensics? Partner? Boss? It's a small thing, but it can throw a reader off the mark early on.
The book has a long cast of characters, and I was glad I was reading on my Kindle so I could do a quick search on names if needed to refresh my memory about who was who (though it could be my fault being so forgetful). This mattered in this book, so it's a worthwhile struggle.
Even so, the book seemed languid in places, but then the ending seemed rushed, which meant I re-read sections to make sure I was understanding what I thought was going on. I'm still not sure all my questions were answered, but I'll take the blame for that.
Overall, the writing is wonderful and I enjoyed reading a book with Temecula, California, scenes, as I've spent a good bit of time there (I do wonder what the visitors' bureau would think about references to cow smells rather than the wineries they work so hard to promote... :))
I'm glad I've downloaded the next Sydney Valentine novel to follow her next big case.
I read the entire book, which says a lot these days. I'm so bored with drunk cops and predictable situations that I welcomed Sydney and her companionable partner Bernie, their give-and-take about their personal lives.
The four-star rating is because the book could have been a little less focused on the main plot and had spent a little more space on the characters. For example, Bernie showed up early on without a last name nor title nor explanation so his role wasn't clear at first: forensics? Partner? Boss? It's a small thing, but it can throw a reader off the mark early on.
The book has a long cast of characters, and I was glad I was reading on my Kindle so I could do a quick search on names if needed to refresh my memory about who was who (though it could be my fault being so forgetful). This mattered in this book, so it's a worthwhile struggle.
Even so, the book seemed languid in places, but then the ending seemed rushed, which meant I re-read sections to make sure I was understanding what I thought was going on. I'm still not sure all my questions were answered, but I'll take the blame for that.
Overall, the writing is wonderful and I enjoyed reading a book with Temecula, California, scenes, as I've spent a good bit of time there (I do wonder what the visitors' bureau would think about references to cow smells rather than the wineries they work so hard to promote... :))
I'm glad I've downloaded the next Sydney Valentine novel to follow her next big case.
March 7, 2021
The first book in this Series, and an excellent start, is The Protector.
In this introduction to the Series, Sydney Valentine investigates the murder of a Child Protection Services' worker. The story introduces the reader to her male, police partner and to her sister, Mack and her family - with whom she has a close relationship.
As the story builds up it describes how Syd and her partner investigate the crime and how she finds herself in the crosshairs of a vicious killer.
A likeable detective with a good work ethic and strong bonds with both her police partner and family.
I believe this is a great start to what I feel is an excellent and gripping series and well worth a read as each book gets better as the Series progresses.
Highly Recomended.
Afterword:
I first read The Protector when it was released, some time ago, and recently read it again. Then, as soon as I saw the box set, - Books 1 to 3 - I had to buy it and follow the story because I had enjoyed the first book so much. I wasn't disappointed. Since then, I have read all the Sydney Valentine books and cannot wait for the next one.
See my individual reviews for each of the five books in this great series.
In this introduction to the Series, Sydney Valentine investigates the murder of a Child Protection Services' worker. The story introduces the reader to her male, police partner and to her sister, Mack and her family - with whom she has a close relationship.
As the story builds up it describes how Syd and her partner investigate the crime and how she finds herself in the crosshairs of a vicious killer.
A likeable detective with a good work ethic and strong bonds with both her police partner and family.
I believe this is a great start to what I feel is an excellent and gripping series and well worth a read as each book gets better as the Series progresses.
Highly Recomended.
Afterword:
I first read The Protector when it was released, some time ago, and recently read it again. Then, as soon as I saw the box set, - Books 1 to 3 - I had to buy it and follow the story because I had enjoyed the first book so much. I wasn't disappointed. Since then, I have read all the Sydney Valentine books and cannot wait for the next one.
See my individual reviews for each of the five books in this great series.
March 7, 2021
The first book in this Series, and an excellent start, is The Protector.
In this introduction to the Series, Sydney Valentine investigates the murder of a Child Protection Services' worker. The story introduces the reader to her male, police partner and to her sister, Mack and her family - with whom she has a close relationship.
As the story builds up it describes how Syd and her partner investigate the crime and how she finds herself in the crosshairs of a vicious killer.
A likeable detective with a good work ethic and strong bonds with both her police partner and family.
I believe this is a great start to what I feel is an excellent and gripping series and well worth a read as each book gets better as the Series progresses.
Highly Recomended.
Afterword:
I first read The Protector when it was released, some time ago, and recently read it again. Then, as soon as I saw the box set, - Books 1 to 3 - I had to buy it and follow the story because I had enjoyed the first book so much. I wasn't disappointed. Since then, I have read all the Sydney Valentine books and cannot wait for the next one.
See my individual reviews for each of the five books in this great series.
In this introduction to the Series, Sydney Valentine investigates the murder of a Child Protection Services' worker. The story introduces the reader to her male, police partner and to her sister, Mack and her family - with whom she has a close relationship.
As the story builds up it describes how Syd and her partner investigate the crime and how she finds herself in the crosshairs of a vicious killer.
A likeable detective with a good work ethic and strong bonds with both her police partner and family.
I believe this is a great start to what I feel is an excellent and gripping series and well worth a read as each book gets better as the Series progresses.
Highly Recomended.
Afterword:
I first read The Protector when it was released, some time ago, and recently read it again. Then, as soon as I saw the box set, - Books 1 to 3 - I had to buy it and follow the story because I had enjoyed the first book so much. I wasn't disappointed. Since then, I have read all the Sydney Valentine books and cannot wait for the next one.
See my individual reviews for each of the five books in this great series.
December 31, 2018
Good first book in a series
As the first of what will apparently be a series about Sydney Valentine, a Southern California detective, it opens the door to her world. The only problem is that much of the book lacks depth, in favor of a wide spread of characters.
On the one hand we're plopped into her life and latest case, so we get pictures of things already in progress. her relationship with her partner, for instance. They banter but he's doing mysterious things. She has a twin sister with husband and son - apparently to contrast with her lonely cop life of all work and no romance (just a whiff of trite there). The case she's on has multiple murders but ultimately isn't a serial killer.
Not bad, but I didn't do ish with the "wow, I need to read more about her" that I had with the heroines of MZ Kelly or Toby Neal. Here's hoping Sydney Valentine turns into a memorable character at some point.
As the first of what will apparently be a series about Sydney Valentine, a Southern California detective, it opens the door to her world. The only problem is that much of the book lacks depth, in favor of a wide spread of characters.
On the one hand we're plopped into her life and latest case, so we get pictures of things already in progress. her relationship with her partner, for instance. They banter but he's doing mysterious things. She has a twin sister with husband and son - apparently to contrast with her lonely cop life of all work and no romance (just a whiff of trite there). The case she's on has multiple murders but ultimately isn't a serial killer.
Not bad, but I didn't do ish with the "wow, I need to read more about her" that I had with the heroines of MZ Kelly or Toby Neal. Here's hoping Sydney Valentine turns into a memorable character at some point.
March 25, 2021
This is the first book in the Sydney Valentine series who investigates the nasty murder of a child protection services manager and with her partner but as she delves deeper into the murder Sydney and her family also become targets. With the murder and the following attacks scrabble letters are left as some sort of clues for them to follow and work out.
The plot slowly unfolds and at points gets a bit confusing and I have to admit I had to put it down a few times but did get to the ending eventually. However I did like Sydney’s character and also her partner Bernie but the book for me did lack something and the ending was a bit of a disappointment as was the actual so called police procedures and investigation techniques.
Read over three or four sessions unfortunately and would prefer to have read in one go so guess that's another reason why only three stars.
Will read the next book before deciding on further books.
The plot slowly unfolds and at points gets a bit confusing and I have to admit I had to put it down a few times but did get to the ending eventually. However I did like Sydney’s character and also her partner Bernie but the book for me did lack something and the ending was a bit of a disappointment as was the actual so called police procedures and investigation techniques.
Read over three or four sessions unfortunately and would prefer to have read in one go so guess that's another reason why only three stars.
Will read the next book before deciding on further books.
March 16, 2017
When a social worker is found dead at the bottom of the stairs at her office building with Scrabble letters stuffed in her mouth, Detective Sydney Valentine gets on the case, and the Scrabble letters tell her this is not a normal case. Soon, there are more bodies, a juvenile court judge and a single mother, indicate a sinister tie to child protective services. The case gets even stickier when Sydney and her sister become targets for the killer.
The Protector by Danielle Lenee Davis is the first book in the Sydney Valentine mystery series. A well-plotted story, the narrative is a bit monotonous in places. The characters, though, are extremely well-developed, especially the irreverent Sydney.
I received a free copy of this book.
The Protector by Danielle Lenee Davis is the first book in the Sydney Valentine mystery series. A well-plotted story, the narrative is a bit monotonous in places. The characters, though, are extremely well-developed, especially the irreverent Sydney.
I received a free copy of this book.
March 15, 2019
Lent with Kindle Unlimited, glad I did not pay for it.
Not enough suspense, too much personal stuff, MC ok, but also too much personal information, and not enough of the case.
Case is a simple mystery, not very gripping, and should have been more important, although the book is short, it felt like 50% was (for me) unimportant personal stuff. Also the case could have been better handled by the police (more resources etc.). Police procedures where well written with a forms for the witnesses to agree to search/DNA invasion opf privacy, at times too detailed.
It feels more like a simple mystery, and with the added romance like a read for a rainy weekend. Not recommended, maybe the next books in the series will be better, but I will most probably not read them.
Not enough suspense, too much personal stuff, MC ok, but also too much personal information, and not enough of the case.
Case is a simple mystery, not very gripping, and should have been more important, although the book is short, it felt like 50% was (for me) unimportant personal stuff. Also the case could have been better handled by the police (more resources etc.). Police procedures where well written with a forms for the witnesses to agree to search/DNA invasion opf privacy, at times too detailed.
It feels more like a simple mystery, and with the added romance like a read for a rainy weekend. Not recommended, maybe the next books in the series will be better, but I will most probably not read them.
May 16, 2017
350 of 544 pages I could handle, then I gave up ! The story might have been good and there might have been some suspense, but it was killed by details and not introducing poeple to the story so you get confused and want to go back to see what she is talking about. There is no murder book, no task force, no supervisor or Head of Homicide ........ there is only her and her partner, funny ! Even after she is targeted, hit, wounded and her sister the same ..... nothing really happend. NOPE ....... get some advice or just do not pretend !
This is for somebody who has no idea about police work ........or doesn't care.
This is for somebody who has no idea about police work ........or doesn't care.
June 8, 2021
Interesting police mystery in which Detective Sydney Valentine investigates the murder of a child protection social worker. Scrabble tiles are found in the woman's mouth, and Valentine's fears come to fruition as more murders with the tiles are committed.
The identity of the killer kept me guessing until the end, and I enjoyed Sydney's first person telling of the story. Her supporting characters, including her doughnut obsessed partner Bernie, are well developed. I am looking forward to diving into the next book in the series.
The identity of the killer kept me guessing until the end, and I enjoyed Sydney's first person telling of the story. Her supporting characters, including her doughnut obsessed partner Bernie, are well developed. I am looking forward to diving into the next book in the series.
May 16, 2017
Good character development , let's you follow their lives personally and professionally, and interesting story line/plot that moves along at a pretty good clip. Nice twist at the end! If you are a true mystery fan, you will definitely like this book. No spoilers here, good start to a new series. Glad I decided to try this author. I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. Looking forward to more books in this series.
March 19, 2019
OMG!!
Ms. Davis thank you for writing this amazing book!. I read this book in two days.I love when I read a book and the author makes it difficult to figure out the ending. I was not expecting that ending. This book was recommended to me by one of my free book websites I receive emails from daily. I will be reading more books from Ms. Davis. I highly recommend this book, you won't be disappointed.
Ms. Davis thank you for writing this amazing book!. I read this book in two days.I love when I read a book and the author makes it difficult to figure out the ending. I was not expecting that ending. This book was recommended to me by one of my free book websites I receive emails from daily. I will be reading more books from Ms. Davis. I highly recommend this book, you won't be disappointed.
March 4, 2021
Monsters in the System
Someone is targeting participants in the child welfare system. In short order a CSS supervisor, a client and a family court judge are murdered. Det. Sydney Valentine and her partner soon find themselves in the crosshairs.
The premise wasn't bad but I found this book lacking in suspense. There are too many characters and the motivation for the murders is convoluted. Sydney's foray into online dating is not especially entertaining. Not my fave.
Someone is targeting participants in the child welfare system. In short order a CSS supervisor, a client and a family court judge are murdered. Det. Sydney Valentine and her partner soon find themselves in the crosshairs.
The premise wasn't bad but I found this book lacking in suspense. There are too many characters and the motivation for the murders is convoluted. Sydney's foray into online dating is not especially entertaining. Not my fave.
January 30, 2017
I love the fact that Sydney has red hair and an attitude of not putting up with anyone's crap, just like me! This is JD Robb's Eve Dallas on mega doses of steroids, seriously! This author just writes characters that fly off the page, the scenes written are so vivid you feel like your watching a movie!!! Just another great book from Davis, time well spent....
January 19, 2019
Another Absolute Winner
This Author has captured my attention and has written A story that is suspensible yet entreating drawing you end from the first page. You will never figure this out. The tale is beyond your capacity and I loved every minute of it. Mrs Davis has become A new favorite Author. You can't afford not to get to know and love her.
This Author has captured my attention and has written A story that is suspensible yet entreating drawing you end from the first page. You will never figure this out. The tale is beyond your capacity and I loved every minute of it. Mrs Davis has become A new favorite Author. You can't afford not to get to know and love her.
March 20, 2019
I started this late in the evening of the 18th. I would have finished it yesterday but work got in the way! I really enjoyed this book and I enjoyed the characters although the attitude of Sydney got on my nerves once or twice but on the whole I liked her.
It was a fast paced book which I love. I find it hard to read books where it’s takes 10 chapters to get going.
I’ve downloaded book 2.
It was a fast paced book which I love. I find it hard to read books where it’s takes 10 chapters to get going.
I’ve downloaded book 2.
October 8, 2017
Detective Sydney finds the body of a social worker with scrabble letters in her mouth. As this is in her jurisdiction, she tries to find the answer. A great detective story for a first time book from this author for me.
March 26, 2018
After reading some of the others I just had to go back to the beginning. Am not disappointed. This is a bloody brilliant series. Sydney is a seriously feisty female and a great detective. Now on to book two. Highly recommended must read.
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