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Richmond Novels #2
Dead Ringer
Some Nightmares...
Beside each body, he leaves a simple charm bearing a woman's name. Ruth. Martha. Judith. The victims were strangers to each other, but they have been chosen with the utmost care. Each bears a striking resemblance to Kendall Shaw, a local anchorwoman. . .each brutally strangled by a madman whose obsession will never end...
Don't Fade. . .
In front of the cameras, Kendall is the picture of stylish confidence. But at night she's haunted by nightmares in which she is young, alone, and filled with fear. Are these memories--or omens? Despite warnings from Richmond Detective Jacob Warwick, Kendall can't stop investigating the recent string of murders. She knows she holds the key to catching an obsessed psychopath--if he doesn't get to her first. . .
With Daylight
The deeper Kendall and Jacob dig into the victims' backgrounds, the more terrifying the discoveries. For from the shadows of the past, a legacy of evil has resurfaced. Every murder, every moment has been leading to Kendall. And this time, nothing will stop the killer making her his final victim. . .
Beside each body, he leaves a simple charm bearing a woman's name. Ruth. Martha. Judith. The victims were strangers to each other, but they have been chosen with the utmost care. Each bears a striking resemblance to Kendall Shaw, a local anchorwoman. . .each brutally strangled by a madman whose obsession will never end...
Don't Fade. . .
In front of the cameras, Kendall is the picture of stylish confidence. But at night she's haunted by nightmares in which she is young, alone, and filled with fear. Are these memories--or omens? Despite warnings from Richmond Detective Jacob Warwick, Kendall can't stop investigating the recent string of murders. She knows she holds the key to catching an obsessed psychopath--if he doesn't get to her first. . .
With Daylight
The deeper Kendall and Jacob dig into the victims' backgrounds, the more terrifying the discoveries. For from the shadows of the past, a legacy of evil has resurfaced. Every murder, every moment has been leading to Kendall. And this time, nothing will stop the killer making her his final victim. . .
384 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published November 1, 2008
1099 people are currently reading
1414 people want to read
About the author
Mary Burton
68 books4,101 followersMary Burton, whose latest novel is THE LIES I TOLD, loves writing suspense, getting to know her characters, keeping up with law enforcement and forensic procedure, morning walks, baking, and tiny dachshunds. She also enjoys hunting down serial killers, which she does in her New York Times and USA Today bestselling novels. Library Journal has compared her work to that of Lisa Jackson and Lisa Gardner, and Fresh Fiction likened her writing to that of James Patterson.
Mary is routinely featured among the top ten writers in Amazon’s Author Rankings for romantic suspense, thriller and mystery. Upon publication, her novels, including NEVER LOOK BACK and BURN YOU TWICE, consistently rank high on the Kindle eBooks Store Bestseller List. Her novels CUT AND RUN and YOU'RE NOT SAFE were nominated for the Romance Writers of America’s RITA Award for Romantic Suspense.
A Richmond native, Mary is the author of forty-five published novels and five novellas as Mary Burton and as Mary Ellen Taylor.
A member of International Thriller Writers, Sisters in Crime, Mystery Writers of America, Novelists, Inc., and Romance Writers of America, Mary is known for creating multiple suspense stories connected by characters and/or place.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 167 reviews
September 16, 2025
6/10: 3⭐️’s
This book was okay. Lots of could be suspects. It kept me engaged and distracted and I liked the mc’s. Reading the first book in the series would filled in a few blanks, but wasn’t absolutely necessary to follow along with the book. Goodness the women have endured a lot of trauma and are magnets for crazy people!! Oofta!
Again there were a few nitpicky things in it. I seem to notice that stuff more often than I would like to. I am not sure how some of it isn’t caught before going to print. Perhaps because they are very minor details in the overall picture, but still, it can be annoying.
And what is the deal with my new preference with contractions? That is distressing. I hope it isn’t something here to stay and is specific only to these 4 books I have recently read. A little bit irked with myself about it!! 😑.
Decent amount of suspense. Kept my mind occupied and off of things for another day, for which I am grateful for.
Original review and rating posted: 9/16/25
This book was okay. Lots of could be suspects. It kept me engaged and distracted and I liked the mc’s. Reading the first book in the series would filled in a few blanks, but wasn’t absolutely necessary to follow along with the book. Goodness the women have endured a lot of trauma and are magnets for crazy people!! Oofta!
Again there were a few nitpicky things in it. I seem to notice that stuff more often than I would like to. I am not sure how some of it isn’t caught before going to print. Perhaps because they are very minor details in the overall picture, but still, it can be annoying.
And what is the deal with my new preference with contractions? That is distressing. I hope it isn’t something here to stay and is specific only to these 4 books I have recently read. A little bit irked with myself about it!! 😑.
Decent amount of suspense. Kept my mind occupied and off of things for another day, for which I am grateful for.
Original review and rating posted: 9/16/25
November 3, 2022
3.5
I little bit better than the first book in this series. However, I am not fond of this author because I have the feeling that she is trying to copy other authors in this genre such as Karen Rose and Lisa Jackson instead of making up her own stories and creating her own style. There are always some similarities in the romantic suspense genres (as there are in any other genres) but taking in consideration that most of the stories are already told and repeated, there is definitely no more space for repeating.
Coming back to the book itself, the murderer is evasive, but I had a hard time with some of the characters. Kendall and Jacob in particular. I just couldn’t quite warm up to them. Their character development also seems a bit lacking and the romance between them kinda sudden. However, the suspense build up with the killer is decent. Even if this isn’t the greatest tale out there, it’s enough to keep me turning the pages.
I little bit better than the first book in this series. However, I am not fond of this author because I have the feeling that she is trying to copy other authors in this genre such as Karen Rose and Lisa Jackson instead of making up her own stories and creating her own style. There are always some similarities in the romantic suspense genres (as there are in any other genres) but taking in consideration that most of the stories are already told and repeated, there is definitely no more space for repeating.
Coming back to the book itself, the murderer is evasive, but I had a hard time with some of the characters. Kendall and Jacob in particular. I just couldn’t quite warm up to them. Their character development also seems a bit lacking and the romance between them kinda sudden. However, the suspense build up with the killer is decent. Even if this isn’t the greatest tale out there, it’s enough to keep me turning the pages.
February 13, 2024
I’ve unfortunately read this out of order. I started the 3rd book not realizing it was part of a series. Oh well, I actually enjoyed this one quite a bit more than the third book. However had I read them in order I likely would have liked them about the same. I don’t even know if I’m going to read the first one, at this point, I’m a mess! 😂
October 23, 2016
Well, I really wouldn't describe it as "riveting" but it was a fast easy read for a gloomy rainy Saturday afternoon.....
July 4, 2011
The first book by this author I read didn’t really convince me, so I was pretty “nervous” as to how this one would pan out. And I was pleasantly surprised.
Good suspense, wonderful tension (also between characters), great mystery, good pacing...I was satisfied with this reading experience. Pity, the heroine was a journalist, though. They always come across as vultures willing to do anything to get their story. While I might admire the zeal in other circumstances, murder isn’t one of those.
Still, the strange connection Kendall felt with the victims helped in making her distance herself from her profession, and humanize the victims for her.
Good story.
Good suspense, wonderful tension (also between characters), great mystery, good pacing...I was satisfied with this reading experience. Pity, the heroine was a journalist, though. They always come across as vultures willing to do anything to get their story. While I might admire the zeal in other circumstances, murder isn’t one of those.
Still, the strange connection Kendall felt with the victims helped in making her distance herself from her profession, and humanize the victims for her.
Good story.
February 9, 2021
Yay!!!!
I looooove this series. I love these characters. I love the storyline. The action. The drama. The suspense. Ooo and the mystery of it all. The sex scenes suck but thats okay. I absolutely loooove it. The first book and this one has been a great joy. In fact I read both books in 3 days. I seriously read this book TODAY. THIS morning until 1am. I couldn't stop reading. You won't regret reading I promise
I looooove this series. I love these characters. I love the storyline. The action. The drama. The suspense. Ooo and the mystery of it all. The sex scenes suck but thats okay. I absolutely loooove it. The first book and this one has been a great joy. In fact I read both books in 3 days. I seriously read this book TODAY. THIS morning until 1am. I couldn't stop reading. You won't regret reading I promise
September 7, 2019
Book source ~ ARC ~ My review is voluntary and honest
Kendall Shaw, local Richmond reporter turned anchorwoman, has spent the last year recovering after being in a serial killer’s sights. Now there are women dying who resemble her and one of the detectives in charge of the investigation, Jacob Warwick, thinks she’s a target. Again. As Jacob and Kendall dig into the victims’ pasts, at first there doesn’t appear to be a connection between them. But Kendall’s sudden nightmares just might tell a different story. Can they catch a killer before the killer catches Kendall?
Told from several POVs this chilling story of a man with an obsession is a nail-biter. The writing is great and the murderer is evasive, but I had a hard time with the characters. Kendall and Jacob in particular. I just couldn’t quite warm up to them. Their character development also seems a bit lacking and the romance between them kinda sudden. However, the suspense build up with the killer is decent. Even if this isn’t the greatest tale out there, it’s enough to keep me turning the pages.
Kendall Shaw, local Richmond reporter turned anchorwoman, has spent the last year recovering after being in a serial killer’s sights. Now there are women dying who resemble her and one of the detectives in charge of the investigation, Jacob Warwick, thinks she’s a target. Again. As Jacob and Kendall dig into the victims’ pasts, at first there doesn’t appear to be a connection between them. But Kendall’s sudden nightmares just might tell a different story. Can they catch a killer before the killer catches Kendall?
Told from several POVs this chilling story of a man with an obsession is a nail-biter. The writing is great and the murderer is evasive, but I had a hard time with the characters. Kendall and Jacob in particular. I just couldn’t quite warm up to them. Their character development also seems a bit lacking and the romance between them kinda sudden. However, the suspense build up with the killer is decent. Even if this isn’t the greatest tale out there, it’s enough to keep me turning the pages.
January 6, 2022
I’m torn 2.5 stars.
The main story is interesting but, the inclusion of a demented woman who must have a baby, the side story of not wanting to keep a child, the nightmares, the stupid romance(s) that makes no sense, and only slow the story, and the new neighbour push it over the edge into completely unbelievable.
The main story is interesting but, the inclusion of a demented woman who must have a baby, the side story of not wanting to keep a child, the nightmares, the stupid romance(s) that makes no sense, and only slow the story, and the new neighbour push it over the edge into completely unbelievable.
November 26, 2020
Mystery, Forgotten Pasts, Solutions
This was an exciting mystery with a captivating twisted plot. Mary Burton has a way of drawing in the reader with well developed characters and a compelling plot. Great read!
This was an exciting mystery with a captivating twisted plot. Mary Burton has a way of drawing in the reader with well developed characters and a compelling plot. Great read!
January 23, 2024
I would give this a 3 1/2. It is very suspenseful and weaves a good story.
May 20, 2018
Good suspense book. Realistic creepy killer, but I had him pegged fairly early on. Enjoyed reading it.
May 18, 2019
I enjoyed this romantic suspense with its complex plot. I'm used to this style which switches among multiple characters stories. I kept changing who I thought was the bad guy so was surprised at the end. The romance was in the background still an overall good book. Detective Jacob heads up a murder and the victim looks a lot like local news reporter Kendall.
October 4, 2021
Predictable. Already knew the killer the moment s/he was introduced. As a bookworm who have read a lot of Mary Burton books, it's the same tried-and-tested formula: hero and heroine thrown in the investigation (one way or another), heroine has a connection whether to the killers or the killer, and they consummate their attraction to each other late in the book (never fails!). I'd still read Mary Burton books. She's my guilty pleasure.
June 13, 2012
The police discover the body of a woman strangely wearing a charm decorated with a name that's not her own. Soon, another woman with similar facial structure and coloring is found dead. Detective Jacob Warwick notices their resemblance to reporter Kendall Shaw who really gets under his skin.
At the same time Kendall has her own concerns. The Stranger (the killer in I'M WATCHING YOU) kidnapped and terrorized her and now she's having nightmares. Oddly, they aren't of her recent experience but of a little girl and baby hiding in a closet. This renews her interest in her adoption. Her parents never wanted to talk about it, but now both of them are dead and she's curious about her ancestry. Of course, her curiosity is also encouraged by her roommate Nicole Piper's pregnancy.
Nicole doesn't know whether she wants to keep her child or give it up for adoption. She does know she doesn't want her creepy customer anywhere near her or the baby. (And that might not be the only creeper after her.) Burton knows how to keep multiple storylines with multiple shady characters in play.
She also knows how to develop a relationship well. Kendall and Jacob are both very independent, career-driven people. With that in common it's hard for them to make connections. It takes them awhile to take steps toward a relationship, but it's satisfying when they do. There are interesting side relationships going on as well. Burton offers glimpses into the life of reunited couple Zach and Lindsey, the hero and heroine of I'M WATCHING YOU. They don't get more screen time than necessary, but they do get enough to show that their marriage has improved.
In addition, Nicole begins a very sweet relationship with widowed policeman Ayden. Well, they don't actually begin a relationship, but they clearly like each other. Nicole deserves it after all she's gone through in this duology. I believe this relationship is the focus of Burton's novella in the SILVER BELLS anthology, which makes me want to pick it up. I'm a sucker for cute, sweet romances. And a cute, sweet romance is exactly what DEAD RINGER needs at points.
Burton doesn't shy away from dark material, which is needed to make a romantic suspense suspenseful. In the end I find the killer a bit overly capable. Just how did he manage to find all his victims? (For that matter, why did they all live so close together?) However, she kept the story moving and I didn't begin to think about these questions until the end.
If you aren't into romantic suspense, this likely won't be the book to convert you. If you are, it's a good one to pick up. It's not too gory and it's there's plenty of lighter stuff to balance out the killers.
At the same time Kendall has her own concerns. The Stranger (the killer in I'M WATCHING YOU) kidnapped and terrorized her and now she's having nightmares. Oddly, they aren't of her recent experience but of a little girl and baby hiding in a closet. This renews her interest in her adoption. Her parents never wanted to talk about it, but now both of them are dead and she's curious about her ancestry. Of course, her curiosity is also encouraged by her roommate Nicole Piper's pregnancy.
Nicole doesn't know whether she wants to keep her child or give it up for adoption. She does know she doesn't want her creepy customer anywhere near her or the baby. (And that might not be the only creeper after her.) Burton knows how to keep multiple storylines with multiple shady characters in play.
She also knows how to develop a relationship well. Kendall and Jacob are both very independent, career-driven people. With that in common it's hard for them to make connections. It takes them awhile to take steps toward a relationship, but it's satisfying when they do. There are interesting side relationships going on as well. Burton offers glimpses into the life of reunited couple Zach and Lindsey, the hero and heroine of I'M WATCHING YOU. They don't get more screen time than necessary, but they do get enough to show that their marriage has improved.
In addition, Nicole begins a very sweet relationship with widowed policeman Ayden. Well, they don't actually begin a relationship, but they clearly like each other. Nicole deserves it after all she's gone through in this duology. I believe this relationship is the focus of Burton's novella in the SILVER BELLS anthology, which makes me want to pick it up. I'm a sucker for cute, sweet romances. And a cute, sweet romance is exactly what DEAD RINGER needs at points.
Burton doesn't shy away from dark material, which is needed to make a romantic suspense suspenseful. In the end I find the killer a bit overly capable. Just how did he manage to find all his victims? (For that matter, why did they all live so close together?) However, she kept the story moving and I didn't begin to think about these questions until the end.
If you aren't into romantic suspense, this likely won't be the book to convert you. If you are, it's a good one to pick up. It's not too gory and it's there's plenty of lighter stuff to balance out the killers.
May 24, 2014
Time taken to read - 2 days
Publisher - Penguin books
Pages - 416
Blurb from Goodreads
Beside each body, he leaves a simple charm bearing a woman's name. Ruth, Rachel, Judith. The victims were strangers to each other, but they have been chosen with the utmost care. Each bears a striking resemblance to Kendall Shaw, a local anchorwoman, each brutally strangled by a madman whose obsession will never end.
My Review
Kendall Shaw is a reporter, ruthless and does what it takes to get her story. However, being a survivor of a serial killer and a near death experience her outlook and approach has changed. Jacob Warwick is a homicide detective, linked to Kendall from the serial killer who almost killed her. On opposite sides of the job, they keep falling into each others paths with a mixture of emotions toward the other. Women are dying, a serial killer is on the loose. They bear a striking resemblance to Kendall, is it a coincidence or is Kendall at risk once again and how far will Warwick go to keep her safe?
This is a great crime story, the pace is fast and there are surprises and twists throughout the story. If you have read the previous book you will recognize a few of the characters, I read the previous book last year and I remembered a few things and characters which isn't like me. It is a busy story, lots of different things going on with the characters. Kendall for example is dealing with her boss who is also her ex who has decided maybe they aren't over. Kendall is having nightmares that are becoming more frequent and she can't make head nor tales of it. She has covered many murders yet something about this one is having a profound effect on her.
There is attraction and sexual chemistry between some of the characters, there is some sex within the book although not is reels of graphic content however it is worth noting it is in there. Overall it kept my attention, pulls you in from the prologue and keeps you guessing along the way as to why the killer is doing what he is doing and who is it. 3/5 for me, I would read this author again, she has a good style and engages the reader quickly.
Publisher - Penguin books
Pages - 416
Blurb from Goodreads
Beside each body, he leaves a simple charm bearing a woman's name. Ruth, Rachel, Judith. The victims were strangers to each other, but they have been chosen with the utmost care. Each bears a striking resemblance to Kendall Shaw, a local anchorwoman, each brutally strangled by a madman whose obsession will never end.
My Review
Kendall Shaw is a reporter, ruthless and does what it takes to get her story. However, being a survivor of a serial killer and a near death experience her outlook and approach has changed. Jacob Warwick is a homicide detective, linked to Kendall from the serial killer who almost killed her. On opposite sides of the job, they keep falling into each others paths with a mixture of emotions toward the other. Women are dying, a serial killer is on the loose. They bear a striking resemblance to Kendall, is it a coincidence or is Kendall at risk once again and how far will Warwick go to keep her safe?
This is a great crime story, the pace is fast and there are surprises and twists throughout the story. If you have read the previous book you will recognize a few of the characters, I read the previous book last year and I remembered a few things and characters which isn't like me. It is a busy story, lots of different things going on with the characters. Kendall for example is dealing with her boss who is also her ex who has decided maybe they aren't over. Kendall is having nightmares that are becoming more frequent and she can't make head nor tales of it. She has covered many murders yet something about this one is having a profound effect on her.
There is attraction and sexual chemistry between some of the characters, there is some sex within the book although not is reels of graphic content however it is worth noting it is in there. Overall it kept my attention, pulls you in from the prologue and keeps you guessing along the way as to why the killer is doing what he is doing and who is it. 3/5 for me, I would read this author again, she has a good style and engages the reader quickly.
November 26, 2008
Reporter Kendall Shaw nearly died at the hands of a serial killer last summer. Since returning to work, she’s done her reporting from the safety of the anchor’s desk. But when a young woman is found strangled by the James River, Kendall feels compelled to cover the story. She wants to prove that she can handle the tough stories – not only to herself, but also to her demanding boss and former boyfriend, Brett.
Homicide detective Jacob Warrington and his partner Zack Kier have little to go on at the murder scene. The killer left no physical evidence and the only clue they have is a small gold charm engraved with the name ‘Ruth’.
When more victims are discovered, each with a gold charm of their own, an unsettling pattern emerges. Each victim was killed in the same manner, and they all bear an uncanny resemblance to Kendall Shaw. As Jacob tries to keep Kendall from becoming the next victim, he finds himself fighting a growing attraction to her.
Does the killer have his sights set on Kendall? And could a mystery from her past be the key to solving the crime?
While I enjoyed Dead Ringer, I felt two of the subplots should have been more fully developed. One promising subplot with Kendall’s boss Brett saw no real resolution. Another subplot, this time involving Kendall’s roommate Nicole and one of her photography clients, was more fleshed out, but it didn’t feel believable to me. However, Dead Ringer offered up some great twists, an interesting protagonist, and a terrifying killer. These three elements made it a difficult book to put down.
Homicide detective Jacob Warrington and his partner Zack Kier have little to go on at the murder scene. The killer left no physical evidence and the only clue they have is a small gold charm engraved with the name ‘Ruth’.
When more victims are discovered, each with a gold charm of their own, an unsettling pattern emerges. Each victim was killed in the same manner, and they all bear an uncanny resemblance to Kendall Shaw. As Jacob tries to keep Kendall from becoming the next victim, he finds himself fighting a growing attraction to her.
Does the killer have his sights set on Kendall? And could a mystery from her past be the key to solving the crime?
While I enjoyed Dead Ringer, I felt two of the subplots should have been more fully developed. One promising subplot with Kendall’s boss Brett saw no real resolution. Another subplot, this time involving Kendall’s roommate Nicole and one of her photography clients, was more fleshed out, but it didn’t feel believable to me. However, Dead Ringer offered up some great twists, an interesting protagonist, and a terrifying killer. These three elements made it a difficult book to put down.
September 25, 2010
Ok for mystery suspense with an adoption undercurrent. Serial killer is strangling women.
STORY BRIEF:
A serial killer is strangling women who look similar to Kendall, a TV news anchorwoman. Jacob is the homicide detective working the case. He is attracted to Kendall but feels she is out of his league. Nicole is a pregnant single woman who lives with Kendall. The issues of adoption are an undercurrent. Kendall was adopted and decides to learn more about her past. Nicole is deciding whether or not to give up her baby for adoption. Kendall has been having nightmares and doesn’t know if they are memories or omens.
REVIEWER’S OPINION:
This was ok. It was typical for mystery and suspense. I had no major problems with it. The weaknesses were: I didn’t feel an emotional connection somehow. There was almost no romantic relationship development. I would have liked more. The story was mostly the solving of the mystery as opposed to Jacob and Kendall interacting with each other. I also would have preferred a little more interesting conversation or things that surprised or delighted me.
DATA:
Story length: 380 pages. Swearing language: strong. Sexual language: none. Number of sex scenes: 2. Total number of sex scene pages: 3. Setting: current day Richmond, Virginia area. Copyright: 2008. Genre: mystery suspense with minimal romance.
STORY BRIEF:
A serial killer is strangling women who look similar to Kendall, a TV news anchorwoman. Jacob is the homicide detective working the case. He is attracted to Kendall but feels she is out of his league. Nicole is a pregnant single woman who lives with Kendall. The issues of adoption are an undercurrent. Kendall was adopted and decides to learn more about her past. Nicole is deciding whether or not to give up her baby for adoption. Kendall has been having nightmares and doesn’t know if they are memories or omens.
REVIEWER’S OPINION:
This was ok. It was typical for mystery and suspense. I had no major problems with it. The weaknesses were: I didn’t feel an emotional connection somehow. There was almost no romantic relationship development. I would have liked more. The story was mostly the solving of the mystery as opposed to Jacob and Kendall interacting with each other. I also would have preferred a little more interesting conversation or things that surprised or delighted me.
DATA:
Story length: 380 pages. Swearing language: strong. Sexual language: none. Number of sex scenes: 2. Total number of sex scene pages: 3. Setting: current day Richmond, Virginia area. Copyright: 2008. Genre: mystery suspense with minimal romance.
September 10, 2020
This book is a combination of Mary Burton's Morgans of Nashville, Texas Rangers, and Alexandria.
I'll prove it.
From Morgans of Nashville. One cop is a homicide investigator with a sister who is a crime scene/forensics worker. Jacob is the brother who is afraid of commitment but suddenly has a 180 turnabout and totally wants to bang the girl who has a killer after her.
From Texas Rangers. Person from the past no one even knew existed comes after a person with the insane intent to kill them for some psychotic reason. Cop sleeps with someone who is involved in a murder case (probably not a good idea fyi).
From Alexandria. Murderer likes to hold his victims, mess with them for a few days/weeks/whatever before killing them. Generally uses hiding in plain sight and drugs to kidnap them. Murders get closer and closer together as the murderer escalates.
All of them: Cop gives a person their business card and the person flicks it with their fingers before tucking it away. Almost all relationships take a 180 turn about 58% of the way through the book, sometimes resulting in reader whiplash. Meh sex scenes with boob kissing. Side story of a support character that you kind of wonder why it's there until it sort of weaves itself into the story a bit (usually one or two per series). Author mostly uses a series of similar misdirects to make you question who's the killer is, but occasionally uses a ex deus machina and uses someone who is either dead, or never in the picture to begin with (usually one book per series).
So which one is this one? Everything I just listed above, yes. But with a bit of extra.
I felt like the relationship was forced around the 54% mark. I didn't like the three month 'surprise' at the end, but that's just because I didn't feel like it fit as an action these particular characters would take seeing how the author describes these two characters for the whole damn book. There is one paragraph that is 4 or 5 sentences long that uses the word 'desire' in three consecutive sentences.
But all in all, I did enjoy how this book came together suspense-wise. I do feel like the romance actually detracted from the overall story. This would have been better off left as a murder/suspense/thriller combo without the forced romance between two damaged, career driven individuals who randomly start lusting after each other about oooooohhh 48% of the way in, starting some sort of actual budding romance acknowledged by both parties involved around 64% only to have them sleeping together before you hit 70-74%.. Too abrupt.
I also feel like I this book is just a mishmash of Mary Burton's other books and even have wondered if she has some kind of computer program that mixes and matches different story line she's written to make one a 'new' book. Then she just has to change the names, locations and just suture it all together which is why you get some weird sentences, grammar and excessive use of a singular words such as 'desire'. Just a conspiracy theory I've worked up...
In Conclusion
While this was not my favorite thriller/mystery/suspense combo, it wasn't terrible and I have read far FAR worse. I did enjoy the story, but I think it would have been far better if the romance wasn't a factor in this one.
I think Mary's books are best read more spread out than what I'm doing (morbid curiosity of what tortures she'll come up with next coupled with a interest in seeing how similar her stories really are). If I wasn't reading them all back to back I'm sure my ratings would be higher because I would be less likely to notice the similarities.
But decent romance mystery suspense authors are really hard to come by and I find Mary Burton consistently manages to pull off stories that mostly maintain their integrity and don't make me want to gouge my eyes out after reading one or two of them. Kudos to Mary Burton for that!
I'll prove it.
From Morgans of Nashville. One cop is a homicide investigator with a sister who is a crime scene/forensics worker. Jacob is the brother who is afraid of commitment but suddenly has a 180 turnabout and totally wants to bang the girl who has a killer after her.
From Texas Rangers. Person from the past no one even knew existed comes after a person with the insane intent to kill them for some psychotic reason. Cop sleeps with someone who is involved in a murder case (probably not a good idea fyi).
From Alexandria. Murderer likes to hold his victims, mess with them for a few days/weeks/whatever before killing them. Generally uses hiding in plain sight and drugs to kidnap them. Murders get closer and closer together as the murderer escalates.
All of them: Cop gives a person their business card and the person flicks it with their fingers before tucking it away. Almost all relationships take a 180 turn about 58% of the way through the book, sometimes resulting in reader whiplash. Meh sex scenes with boob kissing. Side story of a support character that you kind of wonder why it's there until it sort of weaves itself into the story a bit (usually one or two per series). Author mostly uses a series of similar misdirects to make you question who's the killer is, but occasionally uses a ex deus machina and uses someone who is either dead, or never in the picture to begin with (usually one book per series).
So which one is this one? Everything I just listed above, yes. But with a bit of extra.
I felt like the relationship was forced around the 54% mark. I didn't like the three month 'surprise' at the end, but that's just because I didn't feel like it fit as an action these particular characters would take seeing how the author describes these two characters for the whole damn book. There is one paragraph that is 4 or 5 sentences long that uses the word 'desire' in three consecutive sentences.
But all in all, I did enjoy how this book came together suspense-wise. I do feel like the romance actually detracted from the overall story. This would have been better off left as a murder/suspense/thriller combo without the forced romance between two damaged, career driven individuals who randomly start lusting after each other about oooooohhh 48% of the way in, starting some sort of actual budding romance acknowledged by both parties involved around 64% only to have them sleeping together before you hit 70-74%.. Too abrupt.
I also feel like I this book is just a mishmash of Mary Burton's other books and even have wondered if she has some kind of computer program that mixes and matches different story line she's written to make one a 'new' book. Then she just has to change the names, locations and just suture it all together which is why you get some weird sentences, grammar and excessive use of a singular words such as 'desire'. Just a conspiracy theory I've worked up...
In Conclusion
While this was not my favorite thriller/mystery/suspense combo, it wasn't terrible and I have read far FAR worse. I did enjoy the story, but I think it would have been far better if the romance wasn't a factor in this one.
I think Mary's books are best read more spread out than what I'm doing (morbid curiosity of what tortures she'll come up with next coupled with a interest in seeing how similar her stories really are). If I wasn't reading them all back to back I'm sure my ratings would be higher because I would be less likely to notice the similarities.
But decent romance mystery suspense authors are really hard to come by and I find Mary Burton consistently manages to pull off stories that mostly maintain their integrity and don't make me want to gouge my eyes out after reading one or two of them. Kudos to Mary Burton for that!
June 7, 2022
So there was a lot about this book that I really liked and a lot that I would change if I were to Have written it the first thing that I like is that it was interesting from the very first page the murders happened very quickly and it really kept going throughout the whole book.
What I did not like was the random side characters and side stories that they had going on with Nicole and Dana and then Aiden and Nicole and then you’ve had the whole issue with Brett and Kendall and him still kind of stalking her and then the whole squatting neighbor thing that to me seemed very pointless and useless. The whole thing with Bri and Kendall that was never even wrapped up it was kind of just like brush under the rug when the story came to the climax and the thing with Dana wanting Nicole‘s baby that all felt very forced out uncomfortable and also pretty pointless. It was weird that Todd just killed her off randomly after that making a whole fuss about Deana willing to kill Nicole for her baby.
While I wish this book had more of the romance aspect. it was really nice to see Kendall and Jacob get together. I wish they had gotten together earlier so we could see more of that relationship unfold. but I do realize that this is not a Lori Foster or Maya Banks type of normal and it’s more focused on the mystery rather than the romance. And lastly I found it weird that it was the half brother the whole time. I found it odd that a half brother would be so deranged that he’d be obsessed with sexually assaulting his sisters and murdering the family of his dad that he was jealous of.
I wish they would’ve concluded that a little more maybe said that he had some mental health issues or something because it just seemed very far-fetched and out of the blue. it seems like there was a lot of extra sides characters to beef up the story but in reality the story didn’t need all of that. Overall I would give this book a 4 1/2 stars and I would recommend it and I’ll probably be getting the other book in the series to read that one as well. Once again you’re kept wanting more from this story as you read through she doesn’t fail to write a decent mystery that’s for sure.
What I did not like was the random side characters and side stories that they had going on with Nicole and Dana and then Aiden and Nicole and then you’ve had the whole issue with Brett and Kendall and him still kind of stalking her and then the whole squatting neighbor thing that to me seemed very pointless and useless. The whole thing with Bri and Kendall that was never even wrapped up it was kind of just like brush under the rug when the story came to the climax and the thing with Dana wanting Nicole‘s baby that all felt very forced out uncomfortable and also pretty pointless. It was weird that Todd just killed her off randomly after that making a whole fuss about Deana willing to kill Nicole for her baby.
While I wish this book had more of the romance aspect. it was really nice to see Kendall and Jacob get together. I wish they had gotten together earlier so we could see more of that relationship unfold. but I do realize that this is not a Lori Foster or Maya Banks type of normal and it’s more focused on the mystery rather than the romance. And lastly I found it weird that it was the half brother the whole time. I found it odd that a half brother would be so deranged that he’d be obsessed with sexually assaulting his sisters and murdering the family of his dad that he was jealous of.
I wish they would’ve concluded that a little more maybe said that he had some mental health issues or something because it just seemed very far-fetched and out of the blue. it seems like there was a lot of extra sides characters to beef up the story but in reality the story didn’t need all of that. Overall I would give this book a 4 1/2 stars and I would recommend it and I’ll probably be getting the other book in the series to read that one as well. Once again you’re kept wanting more from this story as you read through she doesn’t fail to write a decent mystery that’s for sure.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 25, 2025
Beside each body, he leaves a simple charm bearing a woman's name. Ruth, Martha, Judith. The victims were strangers to each other, but they have been chosen with the utmost care. Each bears a striking resemblance to Kendall Shaw, a local anchorwoman...each brutally strangled by a madman whose obsession will never end...In front of the cameras, Kendall is the picture of stylish confidence. But at night she's haunted by nightmares in which she is young, alone, and filled with fear. Are these memories - or omens? Despite warnings from Richard Detective Jacob Warwick, Kendall can't stop investigating the recent string of murders. She knows she holds the key to catching an obsessed psychopath - if he doesn't get to her first...The deeper Kendall and Jacob dig into the victims' backgrounds, the more terrifying the discoveries. For from the shadows of the past, a legacy of evil has resurfaced. Every murder, every moment has been leading to Kendall. And this time, nothing will stop the killer making her his final victim...
My Thoughts:
Penguin books have claimed this is the perfect thrill for fans of Karen Rose or your money back ! Well Penguin I thought as I started this book can I have my money back please.
However as I carried on reading this book I started to enjoy it more and I can actually say that at the end I quite enjoyed it. The story is a romantic suspense in the vain of Karen Rose/ Erica Spindler/ Sandra Brown but I felt not quite as good. I would have liked the two main characters to have connected a lot sooner in the story to give the book a little bit more sizzle.
Overall it was a very good read eventually with the story picking up a least half way through.
My Thoughts:
Penguin books have claimed this is the perfect thrill for fans of Karen Rose or your money back ! Well Penguin I thought as I started this book can I have my money back please.
However as I carried on reading this book I started to enjoy it more and I can actually say that at the end I quite enjoyed it. The story is a romantic suspense in the vain of Karen Rose/ Erica Spindler/ Sandra Brown but I felt not quite as good. I would have liked the two main characters to have connected a lot sooner in the story to give the book a little bit more sizzle.
Overall it was a very good read eventually with the story picking up a least half way through.
September 26, 2020
While the pacing of the story was a little slow for the first section, it did pick up and was still an interesting read. While this story isn't one of the better ones by this author it is still quite the thriller to read especially when we get closer and closer to the killer and more women show up dead.
What is the connection? Why is the killer after all these women? And why do they all look like Kendall? There is definitely enough suspense going to keep you interested and engrossed, and what seems like 2 separate stories/mysteries to solve. I do wonder when (next book or later books) will address this one creepy scene that Kendall's boss was involved in.
As the story progressed along, it became pretty obvious who the serial killer was, like you can see that coming a mile away. What we had to find out was the connection and reasoning behind his killings.
What is the connection? Why is the killer after all these women? And why do they all look like Kendall? There is definitely enough suspense going to keep you interested and engrossed, and what seems like 2 separate stories/mysteries to solve. I do wonder when (next book or later books) will address this one creepy scene that Kendall's boss was involved in.
As the story progressed along, it became pretty obvious who the serial killer was, like you can see that coming a mile away. What we had to find out was the connection and reasoning behind his killings.
May 7, 2021
I am giving up on this one!
Possibly one that I would have put up with if I hadn't just read a string of other crime/police procedurals which I enjoyed, but in comparison this one was slow paced and the writing wasn't enjoyable for me.
I found it really clunky and wooden. The dialogue was stiff, even between characters who were supposedly partners or close. It also made me feel a bit patronised, like everything had to be explained to me in case I didn't understand why they wanted to speak to an ex husband or why they needed to ensure the crime scene wasn't touched. I've read alot of crime novels, trust me that I know all exes of any kind are suspicious.
It is also quite heavily describing the previous book. I don't mean in general terms so that I could still go back, I mean five or six pages recapping exact events and conversations from the first book. A proper cut and paste, let's fill some pages in the new book exercise.
I have finished just shy of 100 pages because it wasn't going anywhere fast and I wasn't enjoying it. I have way too many books to linger.
Possibly one that I would have put up with if I hadn't just read a string of other crime/police procedurals which I enjoyed, but in comparison this one was slow paced and the writing wasn't enjoyable for me.
I found it really clunky and wooden. The dialogue was stiff, even between characters who were supposedly partners or close. It also made me feel a bit patronised, like everything had to be explained to me in case I didn't understand why they wanted to speak to an ex husband or why they needed to ensure the crime scene wasn't touched. I've read alot of crime novels, trust me that I know all exes of any kind are suspicious.
It is also quite heavily describing the previous book. I don't mean in general terms so that I could still go back, I mean five or six pages recapping exact events and conversations from the first book. A proper cut and paste, let's fill some pages in the new book exercise.
I have finished just shy of 100 pages because it wasn't going anywhere fast and I wasn't enjoying it. I have way too many books to linger.
September 28, 2017
I’ll be honest and admit that this is the fifth book I’ve read by Mary Burton. I should have gone to her printable book list and read them in order but didn’t start that until after I had finished one of her other series. This is the second book in this series and I love it! I cannot wait to start the next one! It has the same two detectives that I started to love in the first novel; Kier and Warwick. It’s amazing how I never did guess who the bad guy was until I found out. Normally I have a good idea before the end but not with this author. Family can be defined as many things….blood, friends, ex-in laws, and etc. This book shows you the extremes that some people take to have and keep a family. It is amazingly written and has characters that you will love and want to have in each additional book. I would recommend this author to anyone who enjoys mysteries, thrillers, or suspense!!
March 31, 2019
I found this book, sitting on book shelf, where it has been for years. I didn't realize it was the second in a series. I just pulled it down and started reading. It wasn't very impressive the first several chapters. Actually, it was slow and somewhat boring. I was surprised when it took off and I couldn't put it down.
The only complaint, if you could call it a complaint, was the number of characters. There were many and some seemed to be introduced for no reason, not developed and disappeared. This may have been to complicate the plot but I found it more annoying. I did know "who dun it" fairly early but never would have guessed the reason or circumstances of the "family".
Great read. May have to obtain "I'm Watching You" so I can read #1 of the series.
I'm Watching You
The only complaint, if you could call it a complaint, was the number of characters. There were many and some seemed to be introduced for no reason, not developed and disappeared. This may have been to complicate the plot but I found it more annoying. I did know "who dun it" fairly early but never would have guessed the reason or circumstances of the "family".
Great read. May have to obtain "I'm Watching You" so I can read #1 of the series.
I'm Watching You
July 25, 2020
After he saved her from The Guardian, detective Jacob Warwick realized he was strongly attracted to news reporter Kendall Shaw. He is mad at himself for always wanting something he can’t have and knows that she is way out of his league. He and fellow detective Zack Kier are investigating murders of young women who resemble Kendall. All have been strangled and have been found wearing a necklace with a charm with an engraved name. The third woman is found who does not resemble the others but the same marks are around her neck. Kendall has a run-in with her new neighbor who tells the detectives he is also looking into the current murders that are similar to the ones that occurred in Colorado. Tipsters told him the man did carpentry work and Kendall is having her kitchen remodeled. Is there a connection between her and the dead women after all?
April 6, 2021
Good storyline. I'd rather liked Nicole except when she let her fear gets the better of her & her constant indecisions. But there was a few times that she pissed me off like knowing Dana is after her baby & yet she doesn't call Ayden of the danger Dana poses to her & her child. She doesn't let ANYONE know she's in trouble. So it's not a surprise that Dana shows up again, corning her into a corner. This is a woman who ALWAYS gets what she wants & saying no to a woman like this will lead to trouble. Yet Nicole is an idiot for ignoring the dangers, it's like she wants her baby to be kidnapped.
Brett should have gotten a bad end due to his obsession with Kendall.
Good when the case starts coming together & Lindsay's scenes. Love Ayden coming to Nicole's rescue, & his scenes.
Brett should have gotten a bad end due to his obsession with Kendall.
Good when the case starts coming together & Lindsay's scenes. Love Ayden coming to Nicole's rescue, & his scenes.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 25, 2021
2.5 stars. Story itself was fairly interesting, although there were some long shots with the number of “bad guys” intersecting in the main characters’ lives. The romance between the H & h was negligible and seemed like an afterthought with how little it was explored. What even was their connection? Overall, engaging enough to want to read on, but wanted more from it. Stars only for the suspense/thriller half of the book, not romance - should not be categorized as romantic suspense.
Also,
Also,
October 15, 2021
A definite must read book and series
Another intense and suspenseful thriller by this amazing author that's definitely a must read. I love Burton's stories as each one is unique, intriguing, and will certainly keep you guessing until the very end. This is definitely not a story/series that you'll want to miss!
Although each book in this series can be read as a stand alone, I would highly recommend that you start from the beginning. You'll have a better understanding of the characters, past events, and the dynamics between everyone by reading them in order. They're all absolutely fantastic stories and you won't be disappointed!
I would definitely recommend this book, series, and exceptional author.
Another intense and suspenseful thriller by this amazing author that's definitely a must read. I love Burton's stories as each one is unique, intriguing, and will certainly keep you guessing until the very end. This is definitely not a story/series that you'll want to miss!
Although each book in this series can be read as a stand alone, I would highly recommend that you start from the beginning. You'll have a better understanding of the characters, past events, and the dynamics between everyone by reading them in order. They're all absolutely fantastic stories and you won't be disappointed!
I would definitely recommend this book, series, and exceptional author.
May 11, 2017
I should have written this review right after I finished or left myself better notes as I'm struggling to remember everything. I really liked the supporting cast in this book and I loved the combination of the current day plot to an historical crime.
There were however, a number of times that I was pulled out of the story which for me dropped the rating some.
From my notes:
In the beginning of the book, a foster parent is able to immediately pull a yearbook for a foster child she hasn't had in a few years. She's had over a dozen kids go through her home. I couldn't guarantee that I could do that for one of my own two kids.
Ok really? She has the key to unlock the deadbolt on the front door but doesn't lock the door and the bad guy is chasing them. It would have gained them all the time they needed. Then she doesn't lock the car door. Again what part of locking the bad guy out is difficult?
Although my preference in romantic suspense is more suspense plot than romance, I do think romance fans we be disappointed in the lack of development in Kendall and Jacob's relationship. There is very little development leading to the HEA and therefore it's hard to completely buy in.
There were however, a number of times that I was pulled out of the story which for me dropped the rating some.
From my notes:
In the beginning of the book, a foster parent is able to immediately pull a yearbook for a foster child she hasn't had in a few years. She's had over a dozen kids go through her home. I couldn't guarantee that I could do that for one of my own two kids.
Ok really? She has the key to unlock the deadbolt on the front door but doesn't lock the door and the bad guy is chasing them. It would have gained them all the time they needed. Then she doesn't lock the car door. Again what part of locking the bad guy out is difficult?
Although my preference in romantic suspense is more suspense plot than romance, I do think romance fans we be disappointed in the lack of development in Kendall and Jacob's relationship. There is very little development leading to the HEA and therefore it's hard to completely buy in.
September 30, 2021
Great Read
This is a very good book full of twists and turns. I could not put this book down. The characters are very well developed. Kendall Shaw is a TV news anchor who is covering the story of a serial killer. The relationship of the reporter and the detective, Jacob Warwick builds in this story. You have some romance mixed in with the plot when the detective is trying to catch the serial killer and keep the news reporter safe. Mary Burton's books do not disappoint. I can't wait to read the next one.
This is a very good book full of twists and turns. I could not put this book down. The characters are very well developed. Kendall Shaw is a TV news anchor who is covering the story of a serial killer. The relationship of the reporter and the detective, Jacob Warwick builds in this story. You have some romance mixed in with the plot when the detective is trying to catch the serial killer and keep the news reporter safe. Mary Burton's books do not disappoint. I can't wait to read the next one.
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