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Jeff Resnick Mystery #2
Dead in Red
A Jeff Resnick Mystery:
From BOOKLIST: Bartlett presents her second supernatural mystery featuring Jeff Resnick, a down-and-out insurance investigator who acquired hard-to-control psychic powers after sustaining brain injuries in a mugging. Jeff is now living with his brother, Richard, in Buffalo. Better but still weak, Jeff is struggling to adjust to his strange new abilities, which intermittently make him ill. While minding his own business in a local bar, he’s asked by the bartender to look into the murder of his cousin. Jeff instantly gets a flash of a red, rhinestone-studded high-heeled shoe. Add to that the visions of bloody hands, and he knows he must take the case. Richard insists on helping him, and Jeff acquiesces even though he remains mired in guilt over putting Richard in the line of fire yet again. Their investigation leads them into a world of fetishes and drag queens. Jeff risks his health and possibly his life, but knows he must continue, or someone he cares about will be in danger. Bartlett’s hero is complicated and mesmerizing, making for a gripping and energizing mystery.
From BOOKLIST: Bartlett presents her second supernatural mystery featuring Jeff Resnick, a down-and-out insurance investigator who acquired hard-to-control psychic powers after sustaining brain injuries in a mugging. Jeff is now living with his brother, Richard, in Buffalo. Better but still weak, Jeff is struggling to adjust to his strange new abilities, which intermittently make him ill. While minding his own business in a local bar, he’s asked by the bartender to look into the murder of his cousin. Jeff instantly gets a flash of a red, rhinestone-studded high-heeled shoe. Add to that the visions of bloody hands, and he knows he must take the case. Richard insists on helping him, and Jeff acquiesces even though he remains mired in guilt over putting Richard in the line of fire yet again. Their investigation leads them into a world of fetishes and drag queens. Jeff risks his health and possibly his life, but knows he must continue, or someone he cares about will be in danger. Bartlett’s hero is complicated and mesmerizing, making for a gripping and energizing mystery.
263 pages, Hardcover
First published June 1, 2008
221 people are currently reading
706 people want to read
About the author
L.L. Bartlett
26 books418 followersThe immensely popular Booktown Mystery series is what put Lorraine Bartlett’s pen name Lorna Barrett on the New York Times Bestseller list, but it’s her talent -- whether writing as Lorna, or L.L. Bartlett, or Lorraine Bartlett -- that keeps her there. This multi-published, Agatha-nominated author pens the exciting Jeff Resnick Mysteries as well as the acclaimed Victoria Square and Lotus Bay Mystery series, and now the Tales of Telenia fantasy saga, and has many short stories and novellas to her name(s). Check out the descriptions and links to all her works here: http://www.LLBartlett.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 128 reviews
December 28, 2014
Excellent mystery. I like the psychic touch but I would follow the series without it. Well written with strong characters. More than cozy romance, less than terrifying suspense. This series falls into the perfect niche for me.
January 23, 2020
I would've enjoyed this book more if it weren't for the absolute disrespect to the gay community and transgender women. Referring to someone seeking gender reassignment as a drag queen that will never be a real woman is highly insensitive and offensive. To quote, "amputating her penis and adding silicone breasts won't make her any more a woman than you are. I mean -- let's face it, chromosomes don't lie, no matter what the outside package looks like." WOW. I am appalled the author wrote those words and credited them to a gay man/drag queen. The fear of contracting AIDS as a gay man is DYING was also revolting. It made me sick but I was so far into the book I had no choice but to finish reading. I was a fan of the first book but cannot continue with this series knowing the ignorance displayed on how these characters were portrayed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 3, 2010
Hey, I wrote it -- albeit under the name L.L. Bartlett. Why wouldn't I love it?
Booklist said: “Bartlett’s hero is complicated and mesmerizing, making for a gripping and energizing mystery.” (I can send you the whole review if you like.)
Library Journal said, “Bartlett has a deft touch and makes psychic abilities very real.”
Booklist said: “Bartlett’s hero is complicated and mesmerizing, making for a gripping and energizing mystery.” (I can send you the whole review if you like.)
Library Journal said, “Bartlett has a deft touch and makes psychic abilities very real.”
December 14, 2012
I couldn't put this second book in the Jeff Resnick mysteries down! I'd give it 4 1/2 stars for plot and holding my interest!
Jeff is trying to piece his life back together after suffering a brain injury during a mugging that gave him some psychic ability, a gift he previously used to solve a murder in his hometown of Buffalo. This time he is sitting in his favorite bar when he gets a "flash" of a red high-heeled shoe. When the bartender tells him that his cousin and former bartender has been murdered, Jeff agrees to help solve the murder and work at the bar part-time. With a little help from his brother, Richard, he goes about solving the crime, uncovering unsavory details about the victim's secret life that may have contributed to his death. Things get a little uncomfortable when one of the suspects is a woman Richard went to high school with!
I really liked how Jeff uses his psychic ability in addition to his skills as a former insurance investigator to solve the mystery, and the ending left me wanting to see what the next book has in store for the brothers!
Jeff is trying to piece his life back together after suffering a brain injury during a mugging that gave him some psychic ability, a gift he previously used to solve a murder in his hometown of Buffalo. This time he is sitting in his favorite bar when he gets a "flash" of a red high-heeled shoe. When the bartender tells him that his cousin and former bartender has been murdered, Jeff agrees to help solve the murder and work at the bar part-time. With a little help from his brother, Richard, he goes about solving the crime, uncovering unsavory details about the victim's secret life that may have contributed to his death. Things get a little uncomfortable when one of the suspects is a woman Richard went to high school with!
I really liked how Jeff uses his psychic ability in addition to his skills as a former insurance investigator to solve the mystery, and the ending left me wanting to see what the next book has in store for the brothers!
March 28, 2011
So far this is a really good series. I liked this book slightly more than the last. Ms. Bartlett's writing is refreshing, there are hardly, if any, of those "fluff" paragraphs that I usually skim over. I'm going to start another of her series, to see if the style carries over.
I like Jeff and the way he relates to the other people in his life. The storyline and even the whole psychic ability seem very real and believable.
I still have that feeling of wanting more . . . maybe more of a connection, I don't know, maybe it's that I don't usually read cozies with male leads? But something that brings a tear or a smile to me would elevate this book to Really Great!
I like Jeff and the way he relates to the other people in his life. The storyline and even the whole psychic ability seem very real and believable.
I still have that feeling of wanting more . . . maybe more of a connection, I don't know, maybe it's that I don't usually read cozies with male leads? But something that brings a tear or a smile to me would elevate this book to Really Great!
February 22, 2012
The continuing thread of the life of the main character, Jeff Resnick, is the main reason I will keep reading this series. The mystery of the particular installment of the series is secondary to me. It is a formula and I can pretty much tell what is going to happen next. However, the underlying story of the relationship of Jeff, his brother, his brother's fiance, and her friend keeps me guessing. I want to find out what happens next. See what you think!
January 3, 2013
Once again Jeff Resnick is overtaken by his psychic powers when he has visions of a red shoe and bloody hands. As he is drawn into the death of a man he did not know he again enlists the aid of his brother Richard. Both are in great danger while they pursue the murderer and they know it. Jeff tries to hold down a part-time job at a bar while Richard is getting ready to be married and yet they still need to solve this crime first.
March 18, 2015
Not as appealing as the first in the series. I do enjoy that Jeff R is psychic.
November 27, 2025
Dead in Red picks up around three months after the first book, and it does so in a way that feels natural and seamless. There’s no feeling of missing information or forced recap—just an easy shift back into Jeff’s world and the trouble he keeps stumbling into whether he wants to or not.
This time, Jeff is pulled into yet another murder investigation he really shouldn’t be involved in… but when the visions come, what choice does he actually have? His abilities might be inconvenient, overwhelming, and occasionally terrifying, but they also might be the only way to prevent more deaths. Once again, Richard tags along—half willing participant, half exasperated brother—and their dynamic remains one of the strongest emotional throughlines in the story.
The book continues exploring the complicated bond between the two half brothers. There’s lingering guilt from the events at the end of book one, and that heaviness still shapes how Jeff moves through the world and how Richard interacts with him. Their worry for each other—spoken or not—feels real and gives the mystery an emotional anchor.
Jeff’s relationship with Maggie is another thread that stands out. It’s “there but not there,” a kind of almost-relationship full of unresolved feelings and awkward, quiet moments that say more than dialogue could. The uncertainty between them makes their interactions feel authentic and layered.
And of course, there’s Sophie. She isn’t new to the series, but this book gives us more time with her and deepens her role. She remains mysterious, intuitive, and someone Jeff can confide in when it comes to his visions—something he can’t easily do with anyone else. The way she fits into Jeff’s life adds to the supernatural tension of the story while also hinting at bigger things happening beneath the surface.
All in all, Dead in Red is another strong entry in this paranormal mystery series. It blends psychic intrigue, emotional tension, and character growth with a solid, engaging mystery. And just like before, it leaves you eager to get your hands on the next book to see what comes next for Jeff, Richard, Maggie, and hopefully even more of Sophie.
This time, Jeff is pulled into yet another murder investigation he really shouldn’t be involved in… but when the visions come, what choice does he actually have? His abilities might be inconvenient, overwhelming, and occasionally terrifying, but they also might be the only way to prevent more deaths. Once again, Richard tags along—half willing participant, half exasperated brother—and their dynamic remains one of the strongest emotional throughlines in the story.
The book continues exploring the complicated bond between the two half brothers. There’s lingering guilt from the events at the end of book one, and that heaviness still shapes how Jeff moves through the world and how Richard interacts with him. Their worry for each other—spoken or not—feels real and gives the mystery an emotional anchor.
Jeff’s relationship with Maggie is another thread that stands out. It’s “there but not there,” a kind of almost-relationship full of unresolved feelings and awkward, quiet moments that say more than dialogue could. The uncertainty between them makes their interactions feel authentic and layered.
And of course, there’s Sophie. She isn’t new to the series, but this book gives us more time with her and deepens her role. She remains mysterious, intuitive, and someone Jeff can confide in when it comes to his visions—something he can’t easily do with anyone else. The way she fits into Jeff’s life adds to the supernatural tension of the story while also hinting at bigger things happening beneath the surface.
All in all, Dead in Red is another strong entry in this paranormal mystery series. It blends psychic intrigue, emotional tension, and character growth with a solid, engaging mystery. And just like before, it leaves you eager to get your hands on the next book to see what comes next for Jeff, Richard, Maggie, and hopefully even more of Sophie.
September 27, 2020
Dead in Red by L.L. Bartlett is the second book of the Jeff Resnick mystery series set in contemporary Buffalo NY. Jeff is living with his brother Richard, a physician, and Richard's bride-to-be Brenda. Jeff is slowly recovering from a mugging months ago, a vicious attack that included getting bashed in the head with a baseball bat. He's not healthy enough to live alone and fend completely for himself, but he wants to feel useful, not just dependent. He agrees to investigate bartender Walt's death and to fill-in as a bartender for the neighborhood bar owner Tom. Jeff occasionally experiences an unusual side effect of the brain damage: an ability to see visions and feel other people's emotions. It's never pleasant for him when he senses pain, as in the first book when he sensed a murder before it happened (Murder on the Mind). Since that first murder case, Jeff is plagued by guilt over the harm to his brother.
Jeff's first sensation about Walt's death is a vision of a sparkly red stiletto heel. It takes some digging to make sense of that image. Jeff learns Walt had a shoe fetish. Once Jeff begins to learn more about Walt's life, he begins to visualize bloody hands, and to feel a sense of urgency. Even after the police arrest a suspect, the bloody hands vision torments Jeff, making him sure the killer is still at large.
The plot takes surprising twists and turns as Jeff and Richard learn about Walt's relationships and visit Walt's favorite hangouts. Tension mounts as Richard and Brenda's wedding date approaches. They know Jeff is tormented by his extra sensitivity, and vow to solve the case so they can depart for their honeymoon without worry. Jeff was able to research the stiletto heel quickly, but he doesn't understand the significance of the bloody hands until it's too late.
On the bright side, during breaks from the case, Jeff begins a friendship with potential for romance.
Jeff's first sensation about Walt's death is a vision of a sparkly red stiletto heel. It takes some digging to make sense of that image. Jeff learns Walt had a shoe fetish. Once Jeff begins to learn more about Walt's life, he begins to visualize bloody hands, and to feel a sense of urgency. Even after the police arrest a suspect, the bloody hands vision torments Jeff, making him sure the killer is still at large.
The plot takes surprising twists and turns as Jeff and Richard learn about Walt's relationships and visit Walt's favorite hangouts. Tension mounts as Richard and Brenda's wedding date approaches. They know Jeff is tormented by his extra sensitivity, and vow to solve the case so they can depart for their honeymoon without worry. Jeff was able to research the stiletto heel quickly, but he doesn't understand the significance of the bloody hands until it's too late.
On the bright side, during breaks from the case, Jeff begins a friendship with potential for romance.
June 4, 2022
I’m a bit of an odd reader, as I’m usually in the middle of 3-4 audiobooks at any given time and I tend to switch between them throughout the week. However, once I started this one, I didn’t even think about another audiobook until well after credits were rolling. That’s how much I liked it.
I found the background characters in this installment really enjoyable to follow. I’m also really loving Jeff’s hot-cold relationship with Maggie and the ever-present complexities in his relationship with Richard. They may be one of my favourite male-male mystery-solving duos now. Richard's so brotherly and it honestly just makes me want to hug them both.
Also props to the audiobook production. I don’t expect many theatrics in audiobooks and the voice-altered phone call to Jeff gave me the chills. Love it.
The Richard cliffhanger is daunting – although slightly in poor taste. But it makes me desperate to pick up the next book, so I guess it's done its job.
I found the background characters in this installment really enjoyable to follow. I’m also really loving Jeff’s hot-cold relationship with Maggie and the ever-present complexities in his relationship with Richard. They may be one of my favourite male-male mystery-solving duos now. Richard's so brotherly and it honestly just makes me want to hug them both.
Also props to the audiobook production. I don’t expect many theatrics in audiobooks and the voice-altered phone call to Jeff gave me the chills. Love it.
The Richard cliffhanger is daunting – although slightly in poor taste. But it makes me desperate to pick up the next book, so I guess it's done its job.
June 23, 2024
First Lorraine Bartlett book I've ever read 2nd in the series Jeff Resnick used to be an insurance investigator but a crack on the head by a baseball bat made him unsure if he would ever have a job again and he has another thing now he is psychic.... the death of a man stabbed 46 times but by who and why? Jeff has to figure it out or the images he keeps seeing will never let him rest.... In two days his half brother Richard is getting married and going to Paris for his honeymoon....But, Richard wants to help Jeff figure this mystery out..... Jeff wants to do nothing but keep Richard safe after the first "case" he helped him on caused him to be shot and nearly die....Can Jeff find anything out or will the bright red high heeled shoe he keeps seeing drive him completely crazy
April 9, 2018
A wonderful read! Riveting plot. Jeff Resnick is truly a fascinating character, both complex and likeable. He makes a terrific protagonist for a series. There is real depth to the relationship between Jeff and his brother, Richard. Watching them discover what makes the other tick, and just how much love exists between them is rewarding in itself. This book and this series are real winners!
April 18, 2018
I was stunned to learn that L.L. Bartlett is also Lorna Bartlett of the Booktown mysteries, a series I am not a fan of. I really like the main character, Jeff Resnick of this series. I sensed a bit of stereotyping in this one so that's why I only gave it 3. stars. I'll stick with the series for one more and let you guys know if its a problem!
October 6, 2024
Mystery and Non-stop Action
Jeff Resnick is involved in another murder during his continued recovery from an assault. While closer than ever to his brother, Jeff wants to keep Richard safe so he can finally marry his intended, Brenda. This book has quite the unusual plot and Jeff meets a kindred old soul, Sophie, who he can discuss his new-found psychic abilities.
Jeff Resnick is involved in another murder during his continued recovery from an assault. While closer than ever to his brother, Jeff wants to keep Richard safe so he can finally marry his intended, Brenda. This book has quite the unusual plot and Jeff meets a kindred old soul, Sophie, who he can discuss his new-found psychic abilities.
June 18, 2018
This is Getting Bwtter
I gotta say that I think L. Bartlett has done a great job with this one. She has many angles going on and keeps your mind reeling! I like it enough for five stars.
I gotta say that I think L. Bartlett has done a great job with this one. She has many angles going on and keeps your mind reeling! I like it enough for five stars.
August 18, 2019
Dead In Red -Jeff Resnick Book 2
Wow. I like these characters and all the weird mischief The main character, Jeff Resnick, gets into. Starting out as a Si
Ole who done it the characters begin to form and suck you into the meat and potatoes of the plot. Hard to put down.
Wow. I like these characters and all the weird mischief The main character, Jeff Resnick, gets into. Starting out as a Si
Ole who done it the characters begin to form and suck you into the meat and potatoes of the plot. Hard to put down.
October 28, 2019
Brilliant supernatural thriller
If you love the first Jeff Resnick mystery you will equally enjoy this second in the series. Plenty of twists and turns. Thrilling from start to finish.
If you love the first Jeff Resnick mystery you will equally enjoy this second in the series. Plenty of twists and turns. Thrilling from start to finish.
March 8, 2022
Book two in the Jeff Resnick series continues the series with good writing and a unique storyline. It definitely has the "have to keep reading to see what happens next" factor. Ready to read book three.
February 22, 2023
WOW!!!
Fast/paced. Gut-wrenching tension that prevents readers from doing anything else besides reading. Excellent timing about peeling back the layers. Don’t read this until you have the time to finish it
Fast/paced. Gut-wrenching tension that prevents readers from doing anything else besides reading. Excellent timing about peeling back the layers. Don’t read this until you have the time to finish it
December 17, 2017
Another great book
The ending did have some surprise. It is written as a fast pace and it was hard to go to sleep.
The ending did have some surprise. It is written as a fast pace and it was hard to go to sleep.
March 22, 2018
Ok. I liked I guess. It's not my usual cozy type mystery.
January 22, 2019
Liking this series
March 10, 2019
Great Read.
This was a great read. It had good family feelings and how families are together. Kept one guessing. It was a good book.
This was a great read. It had good family feelings and how families are together. Kept one guessing. It was a good book.
November 4, 2019
Listened to audiobook.
December 9, 2019
It's a nice quick read I like the character Jeff Resnick and the little adventures he gets his older half brother and himself into when his psychic abilities are on the buzz.
September 9, 2020
Good mystery, but I am going tired of all the self recriminations and angst.
December 27, 2020
I liked this book. Sometimes a bit hard to follow. Enjoyed the relationship between the two brothers and Richard's fiancee.
Interesting look into the drag queen community.
Interesting look into the drag queen community.
July 3, 2021
Pages turning
A five star rating as Dead In Red pulls the reader through Jeff Resnick's psychic adventures. The bond between brothers continues to grow.
A five star rating as Dead In Red pulls the reader through Jeff Resnick's psychic adventures. The bond between brothers continues to grow.
February 14, 2022
I thought this was a very enjoyable light psychic mystery/thriller.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 128 reviews