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Zane Clearwater #1
Bloodlines
"[A] murder mystery energized by extraordinary impassioned characters" -Kirkus Reviews"Well-told and hard-hitting story" -Messages for the SoulFired from his job at the Tulsa Zoo, 26-year-old Zane Clearwater wakes from a blackout to learn his mother was killed in a fire in their trailer-park home.Zane has no memory of that night. Could he have set the blaze?The police have a lot of questions, but so do Zane and his 14-year-old sister Lettie. When he gets a mysterious text that indicates everything his mother told him about her past was a lie, Zane embarks on a journey of discovery that results in meeting his supposedly long-dead father. Jeremiah Doom has a dangerous streak as long as the Arkansas River and a shady, secretive life.Zane may share his father's Cherokee blood, but can he battle against the anger and violence that also lurks beneath the surface of his own skin? Is Zane destined to repeat the sins of his father?NEW BONUS Lettie Clearwater's Beginner's Guide to Tarot
304 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 13, 2015
72 people are currently reading
3149 people want to read
About the author
Lynn Lipinski
7 books169 followersLynn Lipinski is a writer who channels an overactive imagination into fictional worlds where justice rules, karma is real and the good person comes out on top. Her second book, "God of the Internet," was named to Kirkus Reviews Best Books of 2016 list and IndieReader's Best of 2016 list.
Her Zane Clearwater Mystery series is set in her hometown of Tulsa, Oklahoma, which also happens to be her favorite place to write about even though decades of living in L.A. have worn away the Okie accent. She earned an M.F.A. in creative writing from Mount St. Mary's University in 2018.
Her Zane Clearwater Mystery series is set in her hometown of Tulsa, Oklahoma, which also happens to be her favorite place to write about even though decades of living in L.A. have worn away the Okie accent. She earned an M.F.A. in creative writing from Mount St. Mary's University in 2018.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
September 21, 2016
Good book.
Lynn Lipinski’s 2015 publication Bloodlines draws on stark reality with hints of spirituality and the paranormal to draw the reader into a mystery thriller that breathes with an earthy humanism.
Reluctant hero Zane awakes after having fallen off the wagon. A recovering alcoholic, he has nonetheless succumbed to temptation after loosing his job. But getting drunk and blacking out are the least of his problems; his family’s trailer has burned and his mother was killed in the blaze.
As Zane and his young sister Lettie cope with the loss, they also come to terms with the realization that their mother has kept many secrets from them, particularly about Zane’s father. Couple this with the fact that local law enforcement sees Zane as a suspect, and Lipinski has created a boiler-room of tension.
Lipinski’s greatest accomplishment in this fast paced and entertaining novel is her spot on characterization. The cast comes to life and a reader can fairly quickly realize an investment in the characters. Lettie is an especially delightful creation; Lipinski has crafted her to be a sweet, yet mentally resilient survivor.
Intense and subtly disturbing, Lipinski has constructed a damn fine mystery.
Lynn Lipinski’s 2015 publication Bloodlines draws on stark reality with hints of spirituality and the paranormal to draw the reader into a mystery thriller that breathes with an earthy humanism.
Reluctant hero Zane awakes after having fallen off the wagon. A recovering alcoholic, he has nonetheless succumbed to temptation after loosing his job. But getting drunk and blacking out are the least of his problems; his family’s trailer has burned and his mother was killed in the blaze.
As Zane and his young sister Lettie cope with the loss, they also come to terms with the realization that their mother has kept many secrets from them, particularly about Zane’s father. Couple this with the fact that local law enforcement sees Zane as a suspect, and Lipinski has created a boiler-room of tension.
Lipinski’s greatest accomplishment in this fast paced and entertaining novel is her spot on characterization. The cast comes to life and a reader can fairly quickly realize an investment in the characters. Lettie is an especially delightful creation; Lipinski has crafted her to be a sweet, yet mentally resilient survivor.
Intense and subtly disturbing, Lipinski has constructed a damn fine mystery.
February 16, 2016
3.75 stars
Action packed mystery about a mixed family with deep secrets, struggling day to day to survive.
When Zane and Lettie's mother is found dead in their burned out trailer home, their lives turn upside down. Recently fired from his job, Zane soon becomes the #1 suspect in his Mother's death.
After an anonymous text tells him that his Mother isn't who she says she was, Zane starts out on a path to find out the truth. And what he soon discovers is that everything he thought he knew about her was a lie, starting with her name, and that his Father might not be dead as she claimed.
From there, the story takes off in warp speed. I really didn't know how this was all going to turn out, but I was rooting for Zane and his sister all the way. I thought the characters were well written and believable, and while I've never been exposed to the kind of life the protagonist grew up in, it felt real to me as well.
I absolutely recommend to all mystery lovers looking for a quick read (200 pages) that is completely different from anything I've read in a long time.
My thanks to Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Action packed mystery about a mixed family with deep secrets, struggling day to day to survive.
When Zane and Lettie's mother is found dead in their burned out trailer home, their lives turn upside down. Recently fired from his job, Zane soon becomes the #1 suspect in his Mother's death.
After an anonymous text tells him that his Mother isn't who she says she was, Zane starts out on a path to find out the truth. And what he soon discovers is that everything he thought he knew about her was a lie, starting with her name, and that his Father might not be dead as she claimed.
From there, the story takes off in warp speed. I really didn't know how this was all going to turn out, but I was rooting for Zane and his sister all the way. I thought the characters were well written and believable, and while I've never been exposed to the kind of life the protagonist grew up in, it felt real to me as well.
I absolutely recommend to all mystery lovers looking for a quick read (200 pages) that is completely different from anything I've read in a long time.
My thanks to Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 16, 2015
Okay this was a pretty good read and pretty creepy towards the end as well.
This was a story like no other I have read. I was screaming at this book several times, just like in the horror movies, "no don't do that". Of course, just like in the movies, they didn't listen to me. HA!!
The book certainly held my interest as I sped right through the whole thing. I had to know who set the fire and killed the mom. Oh, but the author had other things in mind. I had to go through a lot of secrets before I could learn who the culprit was. And man, were there a lot of secrets.
I read this in one sitting and found it to be very, very entertaining and just could not get enough of the story. I really found that I liked the characters. One of the best things I enjoyed was seeing what happened to Emmaline.
Huge thanks to Author Buzz and Net Galley for providing me with this free e-galley in exchange for an honest review. I highly recommend this book!
This was a story like no other I have read. I was screaming at this book several times, just like in the horror movies, "no don't do that". Of course, just like in the movies, they didn't listen to me. HA!!
The book certainly held my interest as I sped right through the whole thing. I had to know who set the fire and killed the mom. Oh, but the author had other things in mind. I had to go through a lot of secrets before I could learn who the culprit was. And man, were there a lot of secrets.
I read this in one sitting and found it to be very, very entertaining and just could not get enough of the story. I really found that I liked the characters. One of the best things I enjoyed was seeing what happened to Emmaline.
Huge thanks to Author Buzz and Net Galley for providing me with this free e-galley in exchange for an honest review. I highly recommend this book!
October 28, 2015
Please don't misunderstand: I enjoyed reading this very well-written book, and I thank the publisher (via NetGalley) for the opportunity to read it in exchange for a review. I just wish I'd been able to feel some kind of positive emotional connection to any of the characters.
The story begins as Zane Clearwater, a 26-year-old recovering alcoholic, is fired from his job at the Tulsa Zoo (Oklahoma). Upset, he goes off the wagon and blacks out, waking up to learn that his pretty much worthless alcoholic mother died when their trailer burned down. Luckily, neither he nor his 14-year-old step-sister Lettie, were in the trailer at the time. But he was there that evening, and although he loves her, he and his mother certainly had serious issues. His blackout means he remembers nothing; but in the back of his mind, he worries that he might have set that fire. As do the police, who Interview Zane and consider him a person of interest at the very least.
Then, he gets an anonymous text suggesting that his mother's rather sketchy explanation of his late father - and other facts of her life before kids - were far less than honest. In fact, his real father not only may be alive, but a notorious local man with Cherokee blood, a very shady past and a nasty temper that resulted in his mother's running away and doing everything she could to hide the truth from her son and daughter.
As Zane tries to find out what really happened - and hopefully, in the process, find his father - he gets caught up with the attempts of Emmaline, his friend-with-occasional-benefits, to turn her talent for making pageant dresses for little girls into a starring role in a reality TV show (egad - the less said about that, the better).
I can't say more about all that happens from there to the end of the book without revealing too much, but I will say that Zane's baby sister Lettie struck me as the only adult in the family. Mind you, nothing in my 74-year life so far has been close to the experiences of these folks, but on the other hand, I'm proud of my Tennessee "hillbilly" roots (and even the moonshiner we supposedly had in our family). Besides that, one of my grandfathers was said to have a Cherokee heritage; given all that, I expected to understand at least some of what the characters were going through. But, with Zane in particular, instead of sympathizing with his decisions and actions I ended up thinking that if he's going to be that stupid, he deserves what he gets.
Thankfully, in the end he seems to have grown something of a backbone and all's as well as it possibly could be given the circumstances - but for me, at least, it just seemed too little, too late. That said, it isn't (or, IMHO, shouldn't be) necessary to fall in love with characters to realize the quality of a book. In fact, it held my attention throughout; the writing is solid (meaning few grammatical errors and typos, good transition and such) and the plot is both interesting and well thought out. Especially if you enjoy the thrill of the chase and an up-close-and-personal look at life in a place where dreams and reality rarely meet, this one's a good choice.
The story begins as Zane Clearwater, a 26-year-old recovering alcoholic, is fired from his job at the Tulsa Zoo (Oklahoma). Upset, he goes off the wagon and blacks out, waking up to learn that his pretty much worthless alcoholic mother died when their trailer burned down. Luckily, neither he nor his 14-year-old step-sister Lettie, were in the trailer at the time. But he was there that evening, and although he loves her, he and his mother certainly had serious issues. His blackout means he remembers nothing; but in the back of his mind, he worries that he might have set that fire. As do the police, who Interview Zane and consider him a person of interest at the very least.
Then, he gets an anonymous text suggesting that his mother's rather sketchy explanation of his late father - and other facts of her life before kids - were far less than honest. In fact, his real father not only may be alive, but a notorious local man with Cherokee blood, a very shady past and a nasty temper that resulted in his mother's running away and doing everything she could to hide the truth from her son and daughter.
As Zane tries to find out what really happened - and hopefully, in the process, find his father - he gets caught up with the attempts of Emmaline, his friend-with-occasional-benefits, to turn her talent for making pageant dresses for little girls into a starring role in a reality TV show (egad - the less said about that, the better).
I can't say more about all that happens from there to the end of the book without revealing too much, but I will say that Zane's baby sister Lettie struck me as the only adult in the family. Mind you, nothing in my 74-year life so far has been close to the experiences of these folks, but on the other hand, I'm proud of my Tennessee "hillbilly" roots (and even the moonshiner we supposedly had in our family). Besides that, one of my grandfathers was said to have a Cherokee heritage; given all that, I expected to understand at least some of what the characters were going through. But, with Zane in particular, instead of sympathizing with his decisions and actions I ended up thinking that if he's going to be that stupid, he deserves what he gets.
Thankfully, in the end he seems to have grown something of a backbone and all's as well as it possibly could be given the circumstances - but for me, at least, it just seemed too little, too late. That said, it isn't (or, IMHO, shouldn't be) necessary to fall in love with characters to realize the quality of a book. In fact, it held my attention throughout; the writing is solid (meaning few grammatical errors and typos, good transition and such) and the plot is both interesting and well thought out. Especially if you enjoy the thrill of the chase and an up-close-and-personal look at life in a place where dreams and reality rarely meet, this one's a good choice.
January 24, 2022
Bloodlines was an interesting mystery thriller book. I'll admit that I was confused for most of it. Then again, I think that's the whole point at the same time. To be confused that is. Mostly because the MC is completely unreliable. We don't know much in the beginning, but it doesn't help when he black outs either.
In this, you will meet Zane. Again, he's not the most reliable character ever. He blacked out and woke up to horrible news. His mother died in a fire. Of course, he freaks out like any normal person would but then starts to wonder if it was all his fault. Did he start the fire? He doesn't know but he will do anything to find out the truth.
The good thing about this book is the fast pace. I never once felt bored, and the overall mystery kept me on the edge of my seat. I just wished that I liked the characters a bit more. Maybe if Zane was a bit more reliable or Lettie a bit older. There's nothing wrong with them, I just thought they were okay.
In the end, I was always rooting for these two to figure it all out and then live happily ever after. I'm excited to jump into the next book because we get a new murder mystery to solve and older versions of Zane and Lettie. Let's go!
In this, you will meet Zane. Again, he's not the most reliable character ever. He blacked out and woke up to horrible news. His mother died in a fire. Of course, he freaks out like any normal person would but then starts to wonder if it was all his fault. Did he start the fire? He doesn't know but he will do anything to find out the truth.
The good thing about this book is the fast pace. I never once felt bored, and the overall mystery kept me on the edge of my seat. I just wished that I liked the characters a bit more. Maybe if Zane was a bit more reliable or Lettie a bit older. There's nothing wrong with them, I just thought they were okay.
In the end, I was always rooting for these two to figure it all out and then live happily ever after. I'm excited to jump into the next book because we get a new murder mystery to solve and older versions of Zane and Lettie. Let's go!
October 17, 2015
A very entertaining read and brilliantly different!
Bloodlines tells the poignant story of 26-year-old Zane and his 14-year-old sister Lettie. After their mother dies in a fire in their home, Zane and Lettie discover that she had some dark secrets. While trying to unravel the mystery, Zane also has to deal with the police investigating the fire, taking care of his little sister and coming to grips with his identity.
Bloodlines was a unique story with characters that were very believable and a plot that was out of the ordinary. The descriptions and the dialogues felt amazingly true to life. The last third of the book was really suspenseful and tense, and I couldn't stop until I got to the end.
Thank you to Lynn Lipinski and the publisher for providing me with a complimentary copy via NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
Bloodlines tells the poignant story of 26-year-old Zane and his 14-year-old sister Lettie. After their mother dies in a fire in their home, Zane and Lettie discover that she had some dark secrets. While trying to unravel the mystery, Zane also has to deal with the police investigating the fire, taking care of his little sister and coming to grips with his identity.
Bloodlines was a unique story with characters that were very believable and a plot that was out of the ordinary. The descriptions and the dialogues felt amazingly true to life. The last third of the book was really suspenseful and tense, and I couldn't stop until I got to the end.
Thank you to Lynn Lipinski and the publisher for providing me with a complimentary copy via NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
June 28, 2016
** I received this book as an ARC from the author via NetGalley**
Such an intense, kept me guessing, twisted book!! 4.5 stars
This poor family has been handed the wrong end of the stick. Zane's mother is killed in a fire and he is left to take care of his 14 y/o sister (whom I just love). But little did they know their mother was keeping secret after secret. All this time Zane thought his father was dead and gone but oh no he finds him. And all hell breaks loose. This book kept me guessing. I had no clue until the end what was going on and what a POS the real criminal was. And can I just say poor Zane. At time I felt like you could really tell he lacked a father figure in trusting that Jeremiah.
Let's just say this book kept me on my toes!!
Such an intense, kept me guessing, twisted book!! 4.5 stars
This poor family has been handed the wrong end of the stick. Zane's mother is killed in a fire and he is left to take care of his 14 y/o sister (whom I just love). But little did they know their mother was keeping secret after secret. All this time Zane thought his father was dead and gone but oh no he finds him. And all hell breaks loose. This book kept me guessing. I had no clue until the end what was going on and what a POS the real criminal was. And can I just say poor Zane. At time I felt like you could really tell he lacked a father figure in trusting that Jeremiah.
Let's just say this book kept me on my toes!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 12, 2016
3.5 stars
Received from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The book begins with Zane being fired from his job at the local zoo for an offense that he did not commit. He buys some liquor and breaks his 1.5 year sobriety and returns home. He shares his home with his mother and 14 year old sister. The next day he learns that their trailer has burnt down and his Mother is dead. He blacked out from drinking and has no memory of the night before. He is left to care for his 14 year old sister and quickly learns that he is a suspect in the fire that killed his Mother.
He gets a text informing him that his Mother is not who she claims to be. This is the catalyst for family secrets being revealed. Who was his Mother? Who was his father? The reader and Zane learn that his Cherokee father is alive and well. Why did his Mother lie to him? This is the premise of the book
I really enjoyed this book. It is a fast read and moves at a fast but believable pace. If I was not told that Zane was 26 year old in the beginning of the book, I would have thought he was 18 or 19. He had a young feel to him and the book felt more like a YA book to me.
I would have loved if the Author explored more about his dreams and the coyotes in the book. I think that would have been a nice touch.
This book is a mystery book but also reads like a YA book and also like a coming of age book of sorts. The book captured my attention from the get go. From page one, I was hooked. I wasn't too surprised by the "reveal" at the end. That didn't take away from my enjoyment of the book.
Received from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The book begins with Zane being fired from his job at the local zoo for an offense that he did not commit. He buys some liquor and breaks his 1.5 year sobriety and returns home. He shares his home with his mother and 14 year old sister. The next day he learns that their trailer has burnt down and his Mother is dead. He blacked out from drinking and has no memory of the night before. He is left to care for his 14 year old sister and quickly learns that he is a suspect in the fire that killed his Mother.
He gets a text informing him that his Mother is not who she claims to be. This is the catalyst for family secrets being revealed. Who was his Mother? Who was his father? The reader and Zane learn that his Cherokee father is alive and well. Why did his Mother lie to him? This is the premise of the book
I really enjoyed this book. It is a fast read and moves at a fast but believable pace. If I was not told that Zane was 26 year old in the beginning of the book, I would have thought he was 18 or 19. He had a young feel to him and the book felt more like a YA book to me.
I would have loved if the Author explored more about his dreams and the coyotes in the book. I think that would have been a nice touch.
This book is a mystery book but also reads like a YA book and also like a coming of age book of sorts. The book captured my attention from the get go. From page one, I was hooked. I wasn't too surprised by the "reveal" at the end. That didn't take away from my enjoyment of the book.
February 16, 2016
The best part of this story was Zane and his admirable personality traits. He was very likeable and it was a sad story to see someone like him and his sister go through these trying times. It was very interesting to get a perspective of the Indians, for I am part Choctaw and Cherokee. I would like to read another story about Zane and his life going forward from this.... He's such a good character.
October 26, 2015
BLUF: Steady paced murder mystery with realistic characters and relationships.
**I was provided a copy of this book from netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review**
Zane, a recovering alcoholic, was fired from work. After a night of being black out drunk, Zane wakes to learn that his mother has been killed in a fire. Shortly after, Zane receives a strange text suggesting that his mother was not who she said she was. Zane and his sister, Lettie, search to find the truth surrounding their mother and uncover more than they bargain for.
I chose this book because I enjoy narrators who are try to uncover the truth, even if the truth shows that they are at fault for something unthinkable. This book is so much more than what its’ (or my) overview can convey.
I found this book to hold a perfect pace. It’s not fast or slow – its realistic. The pace unfolds the story in a natural, unrushed way. The relationships between characters were very realistic as well. Because of this, the reader will quickly feel familiar with and root for the characters.
I definitely recommend this book for those who are looking for a murder mystery with loveable, but realistic characters. The author writes in a way that will keep your attention and I plan on reading more from her in the near future.
The downfalls of this book, and please understand that these take little to nothing away from the book, are that the end is wrapped up very quickly. It’s well done and leaves the reader feeling complete and content, but it would have been nice for something more drawn out. Also, it felt like the surprises were evenly spaced in the book, leaving the reader to realize that a twist was coming shortly, even if they weren’t certain what it would be. I realize these factors will be turnoffs for some readers so I figured I would be honest and give those readers a warning. If these two concepts don’t phase you, well, you’re in for a treat!
**I was provided a copy of this book from netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review**
Zane, a recovering alcoholic, was fired from work. After a night of being black out drunk, Zane wakes to learn that his mother has been killed in a fire. Shortly after, Zane receives a strange text suggesting that his mother was not who she said she was. Zane and his sister, Lettie, search to find the truth surrounding their mother and uncover more than they bargain for.
I chose this book because I enjoy narrators who are try to uncover the truth, even if the truth shows that they are at fault for something unthinkable. This book is so much more than what its’ (or my) overview can convey.
I found this book to hold a perfect pace. It’s not fast or slow – its realistic. The pace unfolds the story in a natural, unrushed way. The relationships between characters were very realistic as well. Because of this, the reader will quickly feel familiar with and root for the characters.
I definitely recommend this book for those who are looking for a murder mystery with loveable, but realistic characters. The author writes in a way that will keep your attention and I plan on reading more from her in the near future.
The downfalls of this book, and please understand that these take little to nothing away from the book, are that the end is wrapped up very quickly. It’s well done and leaves the reader feeling complete and content, but it would have been nice for something more drawn out. Also, it felt like the surprises were evenly spaced in the book, leaving the reader to realize that a twist was coming shortly, even if they weren’t certain what it would be. I realize these factors will be turnoffs for some readers so I figured I would be honest and give those readers a warning. If these two concepts don’t phase you, well, you’re in for a treat!
November 4, 2015
Twenty-six year old Zane is accused of setting the fire that killed his mother. Now he is responsible for his fourteen year old half-sister, Lettie.
All of Zane's life he believed his father died before he was born. Now information found in his mother's belongings reveal the facts that she had a legal name change and nothing Zane thought about himself was true.
He isn't even sure whether or not he started the fire since he was in an alcohol induced blackout and has no memory of that night. A man's body was found in the edge of the woods just behind the trailer house park where Zane's family lived. Now he's accused of double murder.
He searches for the man who he now believes to be his father and finds him. Many years ago, his father was accused of killing two small girls who were attending a camp. He was acquitted because of lack of evidence. (This was before DNA evidence was available.)
Zane wonders if it's in his blood to be like his dad, because the more time he spends with his dad, the more he sees what a bad, bad man he is.
Tension builds at a steady pace and fear mounts. This is a fast paced mystery that will capture your attention and hang on to it.
I received a free e-book of BLOODLINES from Net Galley in return for an honest review.
All of Zane's life he believed his father died before he was born. Now information found in his mother's belongings reveal the facts that she had a legal name change and nothing Zane thought about himself was true.
He isn't even sure whether or not he started the fire since he was in an alcohol induced blackout and has no memory of that night. A man's body was found in the edge of the woods just behind the trailer house park where Zane's family lived. Now he's accused of double murder.
He searches for the man who he now believes to be his father and finds him. Many years ago, his father was accused of killing two small girls who were attending a camp. He was acquitted because of lack of evidence. (This was before DNA evidence was available.)
Zane wonders if it's in his blood to be like his dad, because the more time he spends with his dad, the more he sees what a bad, bad man he is.
Tension builds at a steady pace and fear mounts. This is a fast paced mystery that will capture your attention and hang on to it.
I received a free e-book of BLOODLINES from Net Galley in return for an honest review.
December 23, 2015
Zane has just lost his job. Zane has also just lost his home and his mother. Life can't get much worse...oh yeah, the police think he set the fire that killed her. I enjoyed the first 50% of this book very much. At a little after the half way point I started getting a little bit antsy. Zane started making some very bad decisions. If my mom had an entire secret life and a secret identity, just to make sure that she wasn't ever found by my FATHER, would I seek the man out? Would I go for a visit? Would I contemplate becoming his indentured drug servant? NEVER. But that's what Zane did. Even though he had his younger sister to protect. Even though is mother's parents who had never met him, offered up their love and affection. He dissed them and took up with dad who happened to have been linked to the murder of a bunch of girl scouts and was a meth dealer. Lovely man. Predictably, things didn't turn out well for Zane after that...until he miraculously saved the day and got himself the girl to boot!
Nice try, the story started out well, but I got the feeling that the author didn't have any where to go with it, so made the obvious quick choices.
Thank you Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book
Nice try, the story started out well, but I got the feeling that the author didn't have any where to go with it, so made the obvious quick choices.
Thank you Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book
October 16, 2015
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this mystery. The character's struggles and daily life felt very real to me, and I found myself truly worried about what would happen to the two main characters (Zane and Lettie) as the story unfolded.
The story begins with the mysterious and tragic death of Zane and Lettie's mother. Zane, in his mid-twenties, has just recently lost his job and is struggling with addiction. He is almost immediately named as a suspect in his mother's death while simultaneously taking on the role of guardian for his younger sister Lettie.
As the story progresses, Zane struggles to find out the truth behind his mother's death in order to clear his name. In the process, he uncovers a series of uncomfortable truths about his past. The story raises some interesting and important questions about how much our genetic makeup (our "bloodline") influences our actions. I found the descriptions very realistic, the dialogue believable and interesting and clearly carefully written and edited. I would gladly read another novel by this author. Highly recommended!
The story begins with the mysterious and tragic death of Zane and Lettie's mother. Zane, in his mid-twenties, has just recently lost his job and is struggling with addiction. He is almost immediately named as a suspect in his mother's death while simultaneously taking on the role of guardian for his younger sister Lettie.
As the story progresses, Zane struggles to find out the truth behind his mother's death in order to clear his name. In the process, he uncovers a series of uncomfortable truths about his past. The story raises some interesting and important questions about how much our genetic makeup (our "bloodline") influences our actions. I found the descriptions very realistic, the dialogue believable and interesting and clearly carefully written and edited. I would gladly read another novel by this author. Highly recommended!
October 20, 2015
Man oh freaking man. That was a great, great story. While i had a feeling i knew who the killer was in the beginning, im thrilled with the outcome. Zane and Lettie, you two are damn strong.
The only thing about this book that wasnt my favorite thing was that it felt not as crazy dramatic in the scenes. I mean, the book did have drama but i didnt "feel" much of it until the last quarter of the book when shit got crazy.
However, still a great book! Definitely a recommend.
The only thing about this book that wasnt my favorite thing was that it felt not as crazy dramatic in the scenes. I mean, the book did have drama but i didnt "feel" much of it until the last quarter of the book when shit got crazy.
However, still a great book! Definitely a recommend.
May 24, 2016
I received a copy of bloodlines in exchange for an honest review, thank you Net galley and AuthorBuzz
Bloodlines is a suspense thriller but didn't live up to its premise.
I liked the characters:
- I liked Lettie who is 14 and a sweet kid
- Zane who is 26 striving hard to get away from a trailer park life style and battle his alcohol addiction
- Emmaline was interesting and I liked her little reality TV show audition and how it showed she was trying to reach her dreams as well.
The problem with the characters are there shadows of what they could of been, rough outlines. They're not developed, all have big quirks and interesting facts about them but no real personality. No one did anything to make me hate them, but that's the thing, no one really did anything important, they were just dull.
The only bright spot was Zanes love for his little sister and want to take care of her.
The thing that got me about this is it wasn't suspenseful. I wasn't surprised by the ending and I don't understand how that is satisfying to any of the readers. As a lover of twists and turns and mind blowing revelations I was so disappointed, I was hoping for some Gillian Flynn f#$%ed up scary crap and I got smiles and relief.
If your looking for a suspense thriller like Gone girl or Dark places you won't find it here.
I'm going to rant about somethings that annoyed me and the ending so spoilers ahead
Bloodlines is a suspense thriller but didn't live up to its premise.
I liked the characters:
- I liked Lettie who is 14 and a sweet kid
- Zane who is 26 striving hard to get away from a trailer park life style and battle his alcohol addiction
- Emmaline was interesting and I liked her little reality TV show audition and how it showed she was trying to reach her dreams as well.
The problem with the characters are there shadows of what they could of been, rough outlines. They're not developed, all have big quirks and interesting facts about them but no real personality. No one did anything to make me hate them, but that's the thing, no one really did anything important, they were just dull.
The only bright spot was Zanes love for his little sister and want to take care of her.
The thing that got me about this is it wasn't suspenseful. I wasn't surprised by the ending and I don't understand how that is satisfying to any of the readers. As a lover of twists and turns and mind blowing revelations I was so disappointed, I was hoping for some Gillian Flynn f#$%ed up scary crap and I got smiles and relief.
If your looking for a suspense thriller like Gone girl or Dark places you won't find it here.
I'm going to rant about somethings that annoyed me and the ending so spoilers ahead
October 16, 2015
One of my friends read this book and raved about how great it was, so I decided that I wanted to read it as well. I liked how this book gives readers an accurate account of family life. There are many books out there that are all cheery and happy, yet they don't really have any substance. I commend the author on creating characters that have substance and a purpose. Zane is 26 years old and without a real purpose in life. He's fired from his job at the zoo and after he wakes up from an alcohol binge, he realizes that his mother has been killed in a fire. Zane receives a text from his mother that his past was a lie and he goes to meet his father, who was supposedly dead. Zane finds the evil in his father and hopes not to repeat the life of his father. Loved the story, there was a lot of mystery to this book and suspense! I would read another from this author.
October 18, 2016
I am always intrigued by suspense thrillers. Some are beyond great. Some are good. Some, not so much. This book falls in the good category. There is enough mystery and unanswered questions to keep you reading from start to finish.
This isn't just a murder mystery. There is a little hint of supernatural thrown in. We have a murder plot of who or what did it? As the story unfolds, many truths from the past arise that make the characters question who they are and who their mother really was.
Overall, this story had enough suspense to keep me interested. It was a fairly quick read for me. I was able to read it in one sitting. Although some of it was a little far fetched for me, everything fit and flowed. The characters were easy to connect to. The plot flowed.
This isn't just a murder mystery. There is a little hint of supernatural thrown in. We have a murder plot of who or what did it? As the story unfolds, many truths from the past arise that make the characters question who they are and who their mother really was.
Overall, this story had enough suspense to keep me interested. It was a fairly quick read for me. I was able to read it in one sitting. Although some of it was a little far fetched for me, everything fit and flowed. The characters were easy to connect to. The plot flowed.
October 20, 2015
This was absolutely intoxicating, from the first page too the last. The deeply rooted family secrets were brought too the light of day, sometimes family secrets should be kept buried. This was defiantly a page turner that I didn't want too put down. I would definitely recommend this too anyone that likes a good thrill.
November 26, 2021
My Rating - 4.5/5
Lipinski is the murder mystery Queen-ski! lol In all seriousness, this is such an adrenaline-filled fast-paced thriller.
What starts as an arson/murder investigation soon takes a series of dramatic twists & turns.
After falling off the wagon & waking up not remembering anything about the night before, Zane soon discovers there has been a fire that not only has claimed his family home, but also the life of his mother. With his father thought to have been dead since before he was born & his 14-year-old half-sister, Lettie's dad in prison, Zane is left to pick up the pieces and somehow provide a secure and stable life for them both. However thrillers are never what they seem, and according to a mysterious text, neither was Zane & Lettie's, mum.
The cryptic message starts a chain of events and revelations that take Zane & Lettie on a dark, challenging, and dangerous path in search of the truth.
Did Zane start the fire? Who was Sherri Clearwater? And what other deadly secrets will they discover?
I loved this book. I, like everyone else, was hooked from the beginning. It's as intriguing as it is frustrating.
Why was I frustrated? Because of Zane. He is a fantastic and relatable MC, but he kept on making decisions that, as an outsider who knew they were foolish, made me want to reach into the book and shake him out of it. Everything left me feeling scared and skeptical and pretty much on edge the entire time.
I have given it 4.5 because there is a scene that probably is vital, but I didn't care for it. I just wanted Zane to find out the truth and this seemed like an unnecessary detour.
Other than that, I loved it and will be starting Book 2, Serpent Loop this weekend.
Thank you Lynn for including this & Serpent Loop in the Nov TBR. Thank you, Nicola, for organising this amazing event.
Lipinski is the murder mystery Queen-ski! lol In all seriousness, this is such an adrenaline-filled fast-paced thriller.
What starts as an arson/murder investigation soon takes a series of dramatic twists & turns.
After falling off the wagon & waking up not remembering anything about the night before, Zane soon discovers there has been a fire that not only has claimed his family home, but also the life of his mother. With his father thought to have been dead since before he was born & his 14-year-old half-sister, Lettie's dad in prison, Zane is left to pick up the pieces and somehow provide a secure and stable life for them both. However thrillers are never what they seem, and according to a mysterious text, neither was Zane & Lettie's, mum.
The cryptic message starts a chain of events and revelations that take Zane & Lettie on a dark, challenging, and dangerous path in search of the truth.
Did Zane start the fire? Who was Sherri Clearwater? And what other deadly secrets will they discover?
I loved this book. I, like everyone else, was hooked from the beginning. It's as intriguing as it is frustrating.
Why was I frustrated? Because of Zane. He is a fantastic and relatable MC, but he kept on making decisions that, as an outsider who knew they were foolish, made me want to reach into the book and shake him out of it. Everything left me feeling scared and skeptical and pretty much on edge the entire time.
I have given it 4.5 because there is a scene that probably is vital, but I didn't care for it. I just wanted Zane to find out the truth and this seemed like an unnecessary detour.
Other than that, I loved it and will be starting Book 2, Serpent Loop this weekend.
Thank you Lynn for including this & Serpent Loop in the Nov TBR. Thank you, Nicola, for organising this amazing event.
October 28, 2015
So I opened it up and couldn't stop reading. Lynn Lipinski's debut novel Bloodlines is a great thriller that really keeps you guessing until the end.
Zane is a young man who finds out his mother had died in fire, he was out drinking the night before and really doesn't remember anything. So when the police question him a lot he begins to wonder if something happened and he is responsible for her death.
Lettie his sister is left in his care after his mother's death and she goes on the journey with him to figure out what really happened that night. It's so hard to to not blurt everything out, but this is a challenging moment for me to say just enough without giving it all away. Shortly after his mother's death Zane receives a message saying Sherri Clearwater doesn't exist and a link to and article about Lily Davis and Jeremiah Doom. As he begins to figure more about who his mother really is, and who his father is he stumbles into even more mysteries.
This book, I didn't want to believe even two chapters in that Zane was capable of murder, but initially you have to wonder if he was drunk and blackout did something happen? However as things begin to unfold you really find that this book keeps you guessing until the bitter end. I did have an inkling about the killer before the ending but I really didn't figure out that much sooner than when the author lays it out for you. I loved Zane and Lettie, they were totally awesome and their love of each other really stood out in this book! So if you looking for a creepy spooky read for Halloween look no further, because this book is the one for you!!!
Zane is a young man who finds out his mother had died in fire, he was out drinking the night before and really doesn't remember anything. So when the police question him a lot he begins to wonder if something happened and he is responsible for her death.
Lettie his sister is left in his care after his mother's death and she goes on the journey with him to figure out what really happened that night. It's so hard to to not blurt everything out, but this is a challenging moment for me to say just enough without giving it all away. Shortly after his mother's death Zane receives a message saying Sherri Clearwater doesn't exist and a link to and article about Lily Davis and Jeremiah Doom. As he begins to figure more about who his mother really is, and who his father is he stumbles into even more mysteries.
This book, I didn't want to believe even two chapters in that Zane was capable of murder, but initially you have to wonder if he was drunk and blackout did something happen? However as things begin to unfold you really find that this book keeps you guessing until the bitter end. I did have an inkling about the killer before the ending but I really didn't figure out that much sooner than when the author lays it out for you. I loved Zane and Lettie, they were totally awesome and their love of each other really stood out in this book! So if you looking for a creepy spooky read for Halloween look no further, because this book is the one for you!!!
April 9, 2018
Twenty-six year-old recovering alcoholic, Zane Clearwater goes on a blackout drinking binge the day that he is fired from his job at the Tulsa Zoo. When he wakes up he learns that his mother has been killed by a fire set in her trailer. Thankfully, his 14-year old sister, Lettie was spared. Things go from bad to worse as Zane is identified as the main person of interest in the arson, and he can’t remember a thing.
Not long after the fire, Zane receives a text that further turns his world upside down. It seems that the story that his mother told him about his long dead father was a lie, and he may be the son of a local man with Cherokee blood that was not at all a nice character. The reason that his mother fled and hid was to try to get away from this nasty dude. This revelation stokes Zane’s curiosity and he sets out to try to find out the truth about his parentage.
The book is fast paced, and at moments, heart-pounding. I’m not going to say much more about the plot in order to avoid spoilers. I’m giving this a solid four stars for the drama of the thriller, and the characters of Zane and Lettie, who I cared about.
Thank-you to NetGalley, Majestic Content Los Angeles, and the author, Lisa Lipinski for providing a free ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Not long after the fire, Zane receives a text that further turns his world upside down. It seems that the story that his mother told him about his long dead father was a lie, and he may be the son of a local man with Cherokee blood that was not at all a nice character. The reason that his mother fled and hid was to try to get away from this nasty dude. This revelation stokes Zane’s curiosity and he sets out to try to find out the truth about his parentage.
The book is fast paced, and at moments, heart-pounding. I’m not going to say much more about the plot in order to avoid spoilers. I’m giving this a solid four stars for the drama of the thriller, and the characters of Zane and Lettie, who I cared about.
Thank-you to NetGalley, Majestic Content Los Angeles, and the author, Lisa Lipinski for providing a free ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 22, 2015
This is a fast-paced, edge-of-your-seat tale that quickly grabs your attention and keeps you captivated through til the end.This is about Zane, a young man in his mid-twenties who suddenly becomes guardian to his younger sister, Lettie, after a fire at the family home kills their mother. Zane wonders if he possibly had anything to do with the fire, after being sober for almost two years, he has an alcohol induced blackout. Zane tries to gain more information on the fire to determine if it was possible he was involved. In the process of gathering information, Zane learns his mother held a lot of secrets, and more about his father, a man he knows nothing about. Zane works to unravel the secrets and learn more about himself.
This book is filled with interesting characters that have a flaws and struggles that are believable.The author raises some thought provoking ideas on how much our bloodline influences our behavior and who we become in life. I really enjoyed this book and would highly recommend it!
I received a copy of this manuscript from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book is filled with interesting characters that have a flaws and struggles that are believable.The author raises some thought provoking ideas on how much our bloodline influences our behavior and who we become in life. I really enjoyed this book and would highly recommend it!
I received a copy of this manuscript from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 17, 2015
It's just a darned shame at times that we don't get to choose our families.
Zane Clearwater is 26 years old. His mother just died in a trailer fire, he just got fired from his job at the zoo, and he can't remember whether he was involved in the trailer fire or not - because he was in an alcoholic blackout after 1-1/2 years sober.
So now Zane is responsible for his 14 year old half-sister Lettie, he's not sure where the money is going to come from, and he finds out his mother had not told him and his sister the truth about much of anything in their lives.
The characters in this dark tale are fully described and easy to imagine. The story is fast paced, emotional, at times darkly humorous. Good people, very bad people, so-so bad people, reality TV, mysticism - all are wrapped up in this tale that reminded me of author Johnny Shaw's dank and dirty noir, showing the underbelly of American life.
NOTE: I received this book from Majestic Content through Net Galley in exchange for my honest review.
Zane Clearwater is 26 years old. His mother just died in a trailer fire, he just got fired from his job at the zoo, and he can't remember whether he was involved in the trailer fire or not - because he was in an alcoholic blackout after 1-1/2 years sober.
So now Zane is responsible for his 14 year old half-sister Lettie, he's not sure where the money is going to come from, and he finds out his mother had not told him and his sister the truth about much of anything in their lives.
The characters in this dark tale are fully described and easy to imagine. The story is fast paced, emotional, at times darkly humorous. Good people, very bad people, so-so bad people, reality TV, mysticism - all are wrapped up in this tale that reminded me of author Johnny Shaw's dank and dirty noir, showing the underbelly of American life.
NOTE: I received this book from Majestic Content through Net Galley in exchange for my honest review.
October 27, 2015
This is an interesting mystery/suspense novel. The story is about Zane, a 26 year old who one night drinks too much, blacks out, and in the morning finds his trailer burned to the ground, and his mother inside, dead. So Zane tries to get to the truth of the incident. Was it an accident, was it murder, or did Zane kill his own mother.
As the book progresses, we learn more about Zane and his sister Lettie. Zane is a good hearted person who is trying to do the right thing, but he keeps making stupid decisions. Many times while reading this I wanted to yell at Zane for his decisions. To me, the book reads more like a character study, until the very end when it explodes into action.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley
As the book progresses, we learn more about Zane and his sister Lettie. Zane is a good hearted person who is trying to do the right thing, but he keeps making stupid decisions. Many times while reading this I wanted to yell at Zane for his decisions. To me, the book reads more like a character study, until the very end when it explodes into action.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley
October 28, 2015
Thank you NetGallery for the advance copy of Blood Lines. Zane and Nettie are brother and sister - Zane's an alcoholic in his 20's and Nettie is just a teenager. Their mother is killed and the siblings are thrown into a situation to find out what happened. This is a story of family secrets and just how much we are tied to our family blood. This novel is steady and has some scary situations that take our young characters on a perilous ride.
I bought into this story and got invested in the characters. Some parts were somewhat predicable, but I enjoyed this book. Everything ties up at the end. Recommend.
I bought into this story and got invested in the characters. Some parts were somewhat predicable, but I enjoyed this book. Everything ties up at the end. Recommend.
September 27, 2021
What a story!
Zane our MC grows up thinking his father died years ago. He lives with his mother and sister at a trailerpark. Not a perfect life.
Then his mother dies in a fire, the trailer completely burns out. Could Zane have set the fire? He doesn’t remember.
The police have a lot of questions. But so do Zane & his sister after receiving an anonymous message about their mother and her past?
The search for answers leads down a dangerous path. Murder, suspense and family (drama)... loved it!!!
Zane our MC grows up thinking his father died years ago. He lives with his mother and sister at a trailerpark. Not a perfect life.
Then his mother dies in a fire, the trailer completely burns out. Could Zane have set the fire? He doesn’t remember.
The police have a lot of questions. But so do Zane & his sister after receiving an anonymous message about their mother and her past?
The search for answers leads down a dangerous path. Murder, suspense and family (drama)... loved it!!!
November 30, 2015
This book had me from page 1. Not necessarily a could not put down book, but a page turner! Could not put down....what was next? Did not totally figure out the villain until almost the very end. Definitely a great first book for Ms. Lipinski. Anxiously awaiting the next book.
This was a book I won from the Goodreads Giveaway.
This was a book I won from the Goodreads Giveaway.
October 16, 2015
This book backs so much action into its pages that you end up with a "wow" feeling. The story has elements of mysticism, native beliefs, Christianity and madness, all bearing on a young man's discovery of his father and his heritage. All the characters are vividly drawn and very true to life. They are real people with all the issues that real people have. It is a great story, told well.
October 22, 2015
I was able to download a free copy of this book from NetGally in exchange for my honest review:
I really enjoyed the beginning and middle of the book, however the ending of the book and the "big twist"/revelation of the "bad guy" at the end of the book felt very rushed to me as if the author was suddenly in a hurry to finish the book. Overall I personally rate this book a 6/10.
I really enjoyed the beginning and middle of the book, however the ending of the book and the "big twist"/revelation of the "bad guy" at the end of the book felt very rushed to me as if the author was suddenly in a hurry to finish the book. Overall I personally rate this book a 6/10.
November 13, 2015
Thank you to Net Galley for bringing this book to my attention. It is a well written, quick to finish mystery of who done it. It has twists and turns that you will not see coming. This is what made me read it so quickly. As much as I wanted to get to the ending, when I did, I wished there was more.
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