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Schock Sisters #2
2nd Strike
Alternate cover edition of ASIN B07YLDFQ5C
Meg and Charlie Schock return for another intriguing case. This one hiding a secret that could wreck Charlie’s life.
The newborn son of popular D.C. morning show host Carl Havers and his wife was kidnapped fifteen years ago. Charlie Schock, then an FBI agent, solved the open-and-shut case, returning Ethan to his parents. Now, the young man shows up at Schock Investigations with a DNA test proving Charlie got it wrong—he’s not the Havers’ son. His parents are still out there…so is the real Ethan Havers…and he wants to find them, no matter what.
Did she get it wrong all those years ago? Charlie won’t stop until she’s solved the case all over again, regardless of the personal cost. The mystery takes her and Meg on an investigation steeped in deception, danger, and possible redemption. Will their combined skills be enough to bring a lost boy home?
Meg and Charlie Schock return for another intriguing case. This one hiding a secret that could wreck Charlie’s life.
The newborn son of popular D.C. morning show host Carl Havers and his wife was kidnapped fifteen years ago. Charlie Schock, then an FBI agent, solved the open-and-shut case, returning Ethan to his parents. Now, the young man shows up at Schock Investigations with a DNA test proving Charlie got it wrong—he’s not the Havers’ son. His parents are still out there…so is the real Ethan Havers…and he wants to find them, no matter what.
Did she get it wrong all those years ago? Charlie won’t stop until she’s solved the case all over again, regardless of the personal cost. The mystery takes her and Meg on an investigation steeped in deception, danger, and possible redemption. Will their combined skills be enough to bring a lost boy home?
205 pages, ebook
First published October 25, 2019
446 people are currently reading
426 people want to read
About the author
Misty Evans
109 books460 followersUSA TODAY Bestselling Author Misty Evans is celebrating her 100th published novel in 2025. She loves writing urban fantasy, paranormal romance, and mystery/suspense. Under her pen name, Nyx Halliwell, she also writes supernatural cozy mysteries.
When not reading or writing (which is most of the time), she enjoys music, movies, and hanging out with her husband, twin sons, and three spoiled rescue dogs. She’s a crafter at heart and has far too many projects to finish.
Visit www.mistyevansbooks.com to check out her online store and sign up for her newsletter.
When not reading or writing (which is most of the time), she enjoys music, movies, and hanging out with her husband, twin sons, and three spoiled rescue dogs. She’s a crafter at heart and has far too many projects to finish.
Visit www.mistyevansbooks.com to check out her online store and sign up for her newsletter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews
October 14, 2019
2nd Strike by Misty Evans and Adrienne Giordano was a great follow up to the first book in this series, !st Shock. I could not put this book down as it grabbed me from the first page.
The story begins as the first ended with Charlie and Meg confronted by young Ethan Havers with his DNA results. A complicated plot with fascinating information about DNA testing and results which I found absorbing. Ms. Evans and Ms. Giordano write characters that are complex and likable all at the same time. Both Meg and Charlie are women that I want to get to know better. I also loved seeing Jackie DelRay, from Defending Justice, again. The finale had me gripping my Kindle as I was fearful for both Charlie and JJ. What a ride! I hope that these ladies continue with this series.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. All of the above opinions are my own.
The story begins as the first ended with Charlie and Meg confronted by young Ethan Havers with his DNA results. A complicated plot with fascinating information about DNA testing and results which I found absorbing. Ms. Evans and Ms. Giordano write characters that are complex and likable all at the same time. Both Meg and Charlie are women that I want to get to know better. I also loved seeing Jackie DelRay, from Defending Justice, again. The finale had me gripping my Kindle as I was fearful for both Charlie and JJ. What a ride! I hope that these ladies continue with this series.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. All of the above opinions are my own.
October 26, 2019
An awesome compelling story that really packs a punch...
Kidnapping, baby switching, betrayal, money, money, and fame how much is your dream life worth??? Would you do absolutely anything to get it???
Oh the lengths people will go for fame and fortune and then when their tangled web begins to unravel the lengths they will go to cover it all up... How far would you go?
Charlie, Meg and Matt have a cold case to solve, a case Charlie thought she had already solved but looks can be deceiving...
I seriously love this series these sister's are just amazing they both have a take no prisoners attitude when it comes to solving a case but they both go about things in totally different ways...lol but they also always have each other's backs that goes beyond being sisters.
This story was one I could not put down it kept me on the edge of my seat from beginning to the very end and now i am hanging out for more.
Kidnapping, baby switching, betrayal, money, money, and fame how much is your dream life worth??? Would you do absolutely anything to get it???
Oh the lengths people will go for fame and fortune and then when their tangled web begins to unravel the lengths they will go to cover it all up... How far would you go?
Charlie, Meg and Matt have a cold case to solve, a case Charlie thought she had already solved but looks can be deceiving...
I seriously love this series these sister's are just amazing they both have a take no prisoners attitude when it comes to solving a case but they both go about things in totally different ways...lol but they also always have each other's backs that goes beyond being sisters.
This story was one I could not put down it kept me on the edge of my seat from beginning to the very end and now i am hanging out for more.
March 31, 2021
I read the preview and thought this might have potential to be a fantastic book, but the focus on the investigators relationships and romance let me down. It is just a good book in my eyes but is you are looking for three spoons of sugar in your mysteries this might be your cup of tea.
May 10, 2023
I have read the first two books in this series in one day. I’m about to start the third. Brave strong women, very interesting characters and lots of twists and turns.
October 25, 2019
2nd Strike by Misty Evans & Adrienne Giordano
A Schock Sisters Mystery #2
GREAT SERIES! I really do love this sister duo that run their own private investigation service! Both women are very different from one another but sisters to the bone with a deep love for one another and willing to do what it takes to not only get the job done but keep the other safe.
At the end of book one a teenage boy is waiting for them outside their office with a request for them to find out why his DNA results say he is not his parents child. The fact that he had been a kidnapping victim when a month old, found years later and returned but was not with his own parents needed to be explained to him. So, even though coming off a serial killer case, Charlie and Meg Schock are curious and definitely on the case. If Ethan is not Ethan then where is the real Ethan and who is the boy that has been called ethan for the past nearly eight years?
The mystery is eventually solved with more than one baddie exposed as each sister takes a chapter, tells the story from her perspective and does her part to solve the case.
What I liked:
* The plot and story telling
* Charlie: very strong and as the older sister, wanting to take charge and keep her sister Meg safe
* Meg: a bit more laid back, an artist and prone to anxiety attacks – she is willing to take on whatever to keep Charlie safe
* JJ Carrington: Meg’s love interest who is also a lawyer and the DA
* Jerome: Meg’s friend, an artist, an interesting man who has the potential to be more to Meg in the future
* Ethan – both of them – great young men that I hope we will hear more about in the future
* The various supporting characters – eager to hear more about them in the future
* The bad guys getting their comeuppance
What I didn’t like:
* The baddies
* Not knowing exactly what will happen to the two young men at the base of this story – who will they end up with? Will they spend time together in the future? What will happen to them?
* Having to wait till book three comes out to find out what happens next.
Did I enjoy this book? Definitely
Do I want to read more in this series? Without a doubt
Thank you to the Adrienne Giordano for the ARC – This is my honest review.
4.5 Stars
A Schock Sisters Mystery #2
GREAT SERIES! I really do love this sister duo that run their own private investigation service! Both women are very different from one another but sisters to the bone with a deep love for one another and willing to do what it takes to not only get the job done but keep the other safe.
At the end of book one a teenage boy is waiting for them outside their office with a request for them to find out why his DNA results say he is not his parents child. The fact that he had been a kidnapping victim when a month old, found years later and returned but was not with his own parents needed to be explained to him. So, even though coming off a serial killer case, Charlie and Meg Schock are curious and definitely on the case. If Ethan is not Ethan then where is the real Ethan and who is the boy that has been called ethan for the past nearly eight years?
The mystery is eventually solved with more than one baddie exposed as each sister takes a chapter, tells the story from her perspective and does her part to solve the case.
What I liked:
* The plot and story telling
* Charlie: very strong and as the older sister, wanting to take charge and keep her sister Meg safe
* Meg: a bit more laid back, an artist and prone to anxiety attacks – she is willing to take on whatever to keep Charlie safe
* JJ Carrington: Meg’s love interest who is also a lawyer and the DA
* Jerome: Meg’s friend, an artist, an interesting man who has the potential to be more to Meg in the future
* Ethan – both of them – great young men that I hope we will hear more about in the future
* The various supporting characters – eager to hear more about them in the future
* The bad guys getting their comeuppance
What I didn’t like:
* The baddies
* Not knowing exactly what will happen to the two young men at the base of this story – who will they end up with? Will they spend time together in the future? What will happen to them?
* Having to wait till book three comes out to find out what happens next.
Did I enjoy this book? Definitely
Do I want to read more in this series? Without a doubt
Thank you to the Adrienne Giordano for the ARC – This is my honest review.
4.5 Stars
October 25, 2019
2nd Strike, the second book in the Schock Sisters series, is a must read for mystery and suspense fans. It is so good, so awesome, so fantastic, so amazing! Misty Evans and Adrienne Giordano always create characters who feel so real and so special that I want to get to know them. This writing duo delivers un-put-downable, nail-biting action consistently from book to book.
The thrill of solving her first FBI cold case and returning a child to his family should have been one of the high points of Charlie career. It was for eight years, but when that child-turned-teenager approaches Meg and Charlie for help, they discover that he is in fact NOT that missing son of the two famous television personalities.
You know those few special kids who stand out because they are polite, intelligent, kind, and a blend of teenager and adult? That is Ethan/Not Ethan. I was a proud of him as Meg and Charlie, that says something about a fiction character. That truly is a multi-dimensional character! The ability to develop a book character who feels that believable and likeable requires gifted writing talent, and that is the kind of writing each of these authors do regularly.
The parents refused to do a DNA test when their baby was returned after a seven year absence, but guess whose head is on the chopping block. Even finding the still-missing child and returning Ethan/Not Ethan to his real parents won't undo the years that have been lost, or the bad publicity that has been gained, but it is SOMETHING that Charlie, Meg and their friends are going to try their best to accomplish. Failing a second time is not an option.
I requested, as I always do with this team, and received an ARC of 2nd Strike. You are going to LOVE it. That is my opinion based on reading the book overnight, non-stop!
The thrill of solving her first FBI cold case and returning a child to his family should have been one of the high points of Charlie career. It was for eight years, but when that child-turned-teenager approaches Meg and Charlie for help, they discover that he is in fact NOT that missing son of the two famous television personalities.
You know those few special kids who stand out because they are polite, intelligent, kind, and a blend of teenager and adult? That is Ethan/Not Ethan. I was a proud of him as Meg and Charlie, that says something about a fiction character. That truly is a multi-dimensional character! The ability to develop a book character who feels that believable and likeable requires gifted writing talent, and that is the kind of writing each of these authors do regularly.
The parents refused to do a DNA test when their baby was returned after a seven year absence, but guess whose head is on the chopping block. Even finding the still-missing child and returning Ethan/Not Ethan to his real parents won't undo the years that have been lost, or the bad publicity that has been gained, but it is SOMETHING that Charlie, Meg and their friends are going to try their best to accomplish. Failing a second time is not an option.
I requested, as I always do with this team, and received an ARC of 2nd Strike. You are going to LOVE it. That is my opinion based on reading the book overnight, non-stop!
October 30, 2019
I love this book. The Schock sisters are such great characters. The suspense, twists and turns are perfect. The pace moves along and you find yourself turning pages and before you know it you are done with the book . The writing is very well done. I love the technical details and the facts that you can tell the authors did their homework research.
When you read a book about a former FBI forensic psychologist and profiler Charlie Schock and a forensic sculptor Meg Schock, you expect that their will be a lot of technical details and you expect them to be accurate.
I love books that keep me guessing. I also love books with strong female protagonists and this book has both of those plus action and a bit of romance thrown in. JJ Carrington, US Attorney for the District of Columbia is the hot, bullheaded love interest of Charlie Schock. J.J. and Charlie have such great chemistry, I think the book has just the right amount of spice going on, but not so much that it overwhelms the main story line.
In this book Meg and Charlie take on one of Charlies old cases from her FBI days. Turns out that Charlie might have made a mistake when she returned a seven year old child to his high profile parents. Their baby was kidnapped just days after his birth. With Megs artistic help and Charlies skills they tracked down the woman that had been the babysitter and the child that they believed was the one kidnapped. Now years later Ethan Havers turns up at Charlie and Megs private investigations office with some shocking news. Grab this one and a comfortable place to read it.
When you read a book about a former FBI forensic psychologist and profiler Charlie Schock and a forensic sculptor Meg Schock, you expect that their will be a lot of technical details and you expect them to be accurate.
I love books that keep me guessing. I also love books with strong female protagonists and this book has both of those plus action and a bit of romance thrown in. JJ Carrington, US Attorney for the District of Columbia is the hot, bullheaded love interest of Charlie Schock. J.J. and Charlie have such great chemistry, I think the book has just the right amount of spice going on, but not so much that it overwhelms the main story line.
In this book Meg and Charlie take on one of Charlies old cases from her FBI days. Turns out that Charlie might have made a mistake when she returned a seven year old child to his high profile parents. Their baby was kidnapped just days after his birth. With Megs artistic help and Charlies skills they tracked down the woman that had been the babysitter and the child that they believed was the one kidnapped. Now years later Ethan Havers turns up at Charlie and Megs private investigations office with some shocking news. Grab this one and a comfortable place to read it.
October 10, 2019
Reviewed on my blog, Becky on Books, on 10/10/19.
Whoa, what a ride this book took us on!
I somehow missed the first book in the series ( 1st Shock --no worries, it's absolutely on my TBR!) but this one worked just fine as an introduction. It apparently takes place right on the heels of book one, but since the events of this one are pretty all-consuming, neither Charlie nor Meg are dwelling on what went on in the past (at least not the past of book 1--their own professional past, though, plays a big role--but we find out all we need to know about that as the story goes on).
There were so many twists and turns here--the focus here is more on the suspense and Meg and Charlie's familial and working relationship than their respective romances, which serves to make the romance there is twice as delicious--it was nearly impossible to put this book down once I'd started, because I needed to find out what was going to happen next to the characters that so quickly stole my heart :)
Now I'm torn--am I more anxious for book 3 to come out, or glad that I have time to catch up with book 1...?
Rating: 4 1/2 stars / A
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Whoa, what a ride this book took us on!
I somehow missed the first book in the series ( 1st Shock --no worries, it's absolutely on my TBR!) but this one worked just fine as an introduction. It apparently takes place right on the heels of book one, but since the events of this one are pretty all-consuming, neither Charlie nor Meg are dwelling on what went on in the past (at least not the past of book 1--their own professional past, though, plays a big role--but we find out all we need to know about that as the story goes on).
There were so many twists and turns here--the focus here is more on the suspense and Meg and Charlie's familial and working relationship than their respective romances, which serves to make the romance there is twice as delicious--it was nearly impossible to put this book down once I'd started, because I needed to find out what was going to happen next to the characters that so quickly stole my heart :)
Now I'm torn--am I more anxious for book 3 to come out, or glad that I have time to catch up with book 1...?
Rating: 4 1/2 stars / A
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
October 7, 2019
This book two is so good. I just love this series! If you read the first book, it ended with Ethan Havers telling Charlie that he is really not Ethan Havers like she thought he was when she worked for the FBI. He had been kidnapped and Charlie worked for the FBI to find the kidnapped child. He was her first case with the FBI and worked with JJ Carrington who is now the U.S. attorney for D.C. Charlie, Meg and JJ are upset that they returned the wrong child.
I was so impressed with Ethan on how grown up his thinking is, and how he handles everything. He is a big help to Charlie and Meg in their quest to find the true Ethan and Ethan’s parents. Ethan’s parents are not on the same page. His father is heart broken but wants to find his biological son and still comfort the Ethan he thought was his son. The mother seems like a basket case. She causes so much trouble for everyone that it is unbelievable.
I loved that a man was introduced for a love interest for Meg. They have an interesting relationship that I can’t wait to see where it goes. I hated to put the book down as I wanted to see what was going to happen next. I strongly encourage you to read the book. I was given a copy of the book and voluntarily wrote a review.
I was so impressed with Ethan on how grown up his thinking is, and how he handles everything. He is a big help to Charlie and Meg in their quest to find the true Ethan and Ethan’s parents. Ethan’s parents are not on the same page. His father is heart broken but wants to find his biological son and still comfort the Ethan he thought was his son. The mother seems like a basket case. She causes so much trouble for everyone that it is unbelievable.
I loved that a man was introduced for a love interest for Meg. They have an interesting relationship that I can’t wait to see where it goes. I hated to put the book down as I wanted to see what was going to happen next. I strongly encourage you to read the book. I was given a copy of the book and voluntarily wrote a review.
October 27, 2019
Sisters Meg and Charlie live for their cases, doing what they can to not only help the victims but also those left behind to mourn their loss. However, not all of them have to do with death, such as the current one they find themselves revisiting.
When Charlie was still an agent, she helped located a kidnapped child and return him to his parents. Now that same child is a teenager is has learned he's not who he is supposed to be. The ramifications both personally and professionally for all involved are long-reaching and impact many people. Charlie, the kidnapped child, Ethan, and JJ, Charlie's now boyfriend.
While Schock Investigations works to solve the mystery, Charlie must face the scrutiny of her actions then and now. Will she discover what really happened and if all responsible were caught? Is Ethan the real Ethan or has he unknowingly been living a lie? How far will some go to get their fifteen minutes of fame? Will they care who may get hurt?
One-click now and follow along as these characters get the shock (see what I did there? LOL) of epic proportions.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.**
When Charlie was still an agent, she helped located a kidnapped child and return him to his parents. Now that same child is a teenager is has learned he's not who he is supposed to be. The ramifications both personally and professionally for all involved are long-reaching and impact many people. Charlie, the kidnapped child, Ethan, and JJ, Charlie's now boyfriend.
While Schock Investigations works to solve the mystery, Charlie must face the scrutiny of her actions then and now. Will she discover what really happened and if all responsible were caught? Is Ethan the real Ethan or has he unknowingly been living a lie? How far will some go to get their fifteen minutes of fame? Will they care who may get hurt?
One-click now and follow along as these characters get the shock (see what I did there? LOL) of epic proportions.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.**
October 2, 2019
WOW!!! I couldn't put this book down! This starts quickly and moves at a fast pace until the very end.
The Schock sisters are interesting and relatable. In this novel, a case from Charlie's FBI past comes back to haunt them. This case has lots of twists and turns that made it interesting and kept me hooked until the very last page.
This is a great new series and, though it is part of a series, is a stand alone novel - however, it's so good that you really owe it to yourself to read them all. This pair of authors is phenomenal together and I can't wait to see what they create next. They are both on my must read authors' list, both separately and together. If you're a fan of the genre, they should probably be on your must read listtoo.
The Schock sisters are interesting and relatable. In this novel, a case from Charlie's FBI past comes back to haunt them. This case has lots of twists and turns that made it interesting and kept me hooked until the very last page.
This is a great new series and, though it is part of a series, is a stand alone novel - however, it's so good that you really owe it to yourself to read them all. This pair of authors is phenomenal together and I can't wait to see what they create next. They are both on my must read authors' list, both separately and together. If you're a fan of the genre, they should probably be on your must read listtoo.
August 2, 2021
I don’t understand the 5 star reviews. This book was bad. I only gave it 2 stars instead of 1 because I sort of finished it. I say “sort of” because I skimmed the last third. Too boring and ridiculous to actually read. High speed car chase?? Really?? That’s about when I started skimming.
December 16, 2022
After reading 1st Shock, I debated if I should give Misty Evans, Adrienne Giordano, and the Schock sisters another chance. The deciding factor for me was the ending of 1st Shock. It piqued my interest enough, that I decided to give Misty and Adrienne another shot. Sadly, 2nd Strike left me irritated.
Like 1st Shock, 2nd Strike takes readers through another investigation, this time surrounding a kidnapping that happened fifteen years ago. Each chapter flipped between Meg and Charlie's points of view and at times I really struggled to know which character was speaking because their tones were so similar. If it hadn't been for the fact that each chapter was marked by whose point of view it was, I would have never been able to tell the difference. Meg also had a huge personality change in 2nd Strike, taking on a more dominant, take-charge attitude, and readers saw her really come out of her shell. Because of this personality change in Meg, it made it even more confusing to tell which character was speaking throughout the chapters.
The storyline surrounding the case was interesting, but the personal life of Meg and Charlie was still very prominent throughout the book. I wish that Misty and Adrienne had focused more on the actual case instead of adding unnecessary fluff. The actual investigation lacked details and was a quick turnaround, which left me wanting more. It also felt like part of the case was handed to Meg and Charlie on a silver platter, with no real effort on their part. I also questioned how there was never a DNA test originally done. There is absolutely no way in real life that someone would hand a child back over to a family without a DNA test first, to make sure it's their actual child. I get that Misty and Adrienne were trying to create another story, but let's be more realistic.
On a positive note, the story was fast pace and the writing was pretty straightforward. The case was pretty interesting and could have been elaborated on. There was also enough backstory on Meg and Charlie that I didn't feel lost or confused.
While I didn't have high expectations for 2nd Strike, I at least expected it to be better than 1st Shock. Sadly this is the end of the road for me and the Schock sisters, Misty Evans, and Adrienne Giordano.
****
Fifteen years ago, popular morning show hosts Carl and Lily Havers' newborn son was kidnapped. At the time Charlie Schock was an FBI agent and was a lead on the case. After solving the case, Ethan is returned to his parents. Now, as a young man, Ethan shows up at Schock Investigations with a DNA test proving that he isn't Carl and Lily's actual son. His biological parents are still out there and so is the real Ethan Havers. Ethan wants answers and will stop at nothing to get them. Charlie, of course, is completely shocked by all of this and can't stop blaming herself. Will the team be able to solve the case and finally bring closure?
Like 1st Shock, 2nd Strike takes readers through another investigation, this time surrounding a kidnapping that happened fifteen years ago. Each chapter flipped between Meg and Charlie's points of view and at times I really struggled to know which character was speaking because their tones were so similar. If it hadn't been for the fact that each chapter was marked by whose point of view it was, I would have never been able to tell the difference. Meg also had a huge personality change in 2nd Strike, taking on a more dominant, take-charge attitude, and readers saw her really come out of her shell. Because of this personality change in Meg, it made it even more confusing to tell which character was speaking throughout the chapters.
The storyline surrounding the case was interesting, but the personal life of Meg and Charlie was still very prominent throughout the book. I wish that Misty and Adrienne had focused more on the actual case instead of adding unnecessary fluff. The actual investigation lacked details and was a quick turnaround, which left me wanting more. It also felt like part of the case was handed to Meg and Charlie on a silver platter, with no real effort on their part. I also questioned how there was never a DNA test originally done. There is absolutely no way in real life that someone would hand a child back over to a family without a DNA test first, to make sure it's their actual child. I get that Misty and Adrienne were trying to create another story, but let's be more realistic.
On a positive note, the story was fast pace and the writing was pretty straightforward. The case was pretty interesting and could have been elaborated on. There was also enough backstory on Meg and Charlie that I didn't feel lost or confused.
While I didn't have high expectations for 2nd Strike, I at least expected it to be better than 1st Shock. Sadly this is the end of the road for me and the Schock sisters, Misty Evans, and Adrienne Giordano.
****
Fifteen years ago, popular morning show hosts Carl and Lily Havers' newborn son was kidnapped. At the time Charlie Schock was an FBI agent and was a lead on the case. After solving the case, Ethan is returned to his parents. Now, as a young man, Ethan shows up at Schock Investigations with a DNA test proving that he isn't Carl and Lily's actual son. His biological parents are still out there and so is the real Ethan Havers. Ethan wants answers and will stop at nothing to get them. Charlie, of course, is completely shocked by all of this and can't stop blaming herself. Will the team be able to solve the case and finally bring closure?
May 10, 2021
We didn’t have particularly high expectations for this light mystery, “2nd Strike” our first sampling of authors Evans and Giordano, with this second in their currently 3-novel Schock sisters set. The two women, Charlie (a former FBI agent) and Meg, professional private eyes, were decent enough characters; they told the tale via alternating first-person chapters that described the action and revealed their ongoing relationships with the men in their lives.
The plot was somewhat original, featuring a boy who had been kidnapped and returned to his parents years later (but without a DNA confirmation) to a set of TV personalities. When a hobbyist DNA test revealed there was probably a mix-up, the sisters work hard to determine who is who and who belongs to what parents. A modicum of suspense and romantic angst closed out the otherwise undemanding storyline.
So, while the novel was not awful, it was otherwise, like the protagonists, relatively unremarkable – so on balance, a reasonably pleasant passage of time that probably does not warrant further commentary or pursuit. {2.5}
The plot was somewhat original, featuring a boy who had been kidnapped and returned to his parents years later (but without a DNA confirmation) to a set of TV personalities. When a hobbyist DNA test revealed there was probably a mix-up, the sisters work hard to determine who is who and who belongs to what parents. A modicum of suspense and romantic angst closed out the otherwise undemanding storyline.
So, while the novel was not awful, it was otherwise, like the protagonists, relatively unremarkable – so on balance, a reasonably pleasant passage of time that probably does not warrant further commentary or pursuit. {2.5}
November 21, 2025
Rating: 4-4.25⭐
✨As a whole, I think that #2ndStrike is a little bit more emotional than its prequel in terms of the case along with careers and personal lives of both sisters.
✨Actually, I did pause on reading this book for several months, and I think that’s a good step because I had a quite full blast when I resumed my reading.
✨The plot for me is well-crafted and fast-paced, and it really helps that the story is told from both sister’s POVs.
✨For the characters, I truly like how both authors show that both sisters are good at their job, but also have their own weaknesses and faults from various aspects. Even many of the supporting characters also have their time to shine, in my opinion.
✨This story revolves on a premise that there are some people who are willing to sacrifice anything or anyone in order to always keep them in the spotlight, without caring about anything else.
✨Based on the content, it is okay to not read the first book first, but it is better to do so in order to understand more of the sisters and their colleagues from their agency.
✨I do recommend this book for anyone who wants to read a fast-paced procedural mystery. If you pick this book up, I hope you will like it as much as I do.
✨As a whole, I think that #2ndStrike is a little bit more emotional than its prequel in terms of the case along with careers and personal lives of both sisters.
✨Actually, I did pause on reading this book for several months, and I think that’s a good step because I had a quite full blast when I resumed my reading.
✨The plot for me is well-crafted and fast-paced, and it really helps that the story is told from both sister’s POVs.
✨For the characters, I truly like how both authors show that both sisters are good at their job, but also have their own weaknesses and faults from various aspects. Even many of the supporting characters also have their time to shine, in my opinion.
✨This story revolves on a premise that there are some people who are willing to sacrifice anything or anyone in order to always keep them in the spotlight, without caring about anything else.
✨Based on the content, it is okay to not read the first book first, but it is better to do so in order to understand more of the sisters and their colleagues from their agency.
✨I do recommend this book for anyone who wants to read a fast-paced procedural mystery. If you pick this book up, I hope you will like it as much as I do.
May 11, 2022
This is the 2nd in the series about the Schock sisters, Meg and Charlie who run an investigation business. Because of their knowledge it is more then just investigations and finding serial killers,
Meg is a forensic sculptor and her sister, Charlies was with the FBI as a profiler and one of the best.
This one involves the first case that Charlie solved when she was with the FBI. Now, a 15 year old boy, Ethan, shows up at their doorstep. He was kidnapped and Charlie find his kidnapper and got him home to his parents. But Ethan was studying DNA and run a test on his and now he finds out,
that he is not Ethan or that his parents are not his parents. Meg has also run a age progression on Ethan, and with the picture, they knew that they had found him. So, what is happening?
Was Charlie and Meg both wrong? Now they most delve into the case and find out who is the real Ethan and where he is.
Meg is a forensic sculptor and her sister, Charlies was with the FBI as a profiler and one of the best.
This one involves the first case that Charlie solved when she was with the FBI. Now, a 15 year old boy, Ethan, shows up at their doorstep. He was kidnapped and Charlie find his kidnapper and got him home to his parents. But Ethan was studying DNA and run a test on his and now he finds out,
that he is not Ethan or that his parents are not his parents. Meg has also run a age progression on Ethan, and with the picture, they knew that they had found him. So, what is happening?
Was Charlie and Meg both wrong? Now they most delve into the case and find out who is the real Ethan and where he is.
February 5, 2021
An extraordinary breathtaking book.
What would it be like to have your child kidnapped and not get him back for years. Crazy but remarkably true. Or is it? When someone tells you that the boy you reared might not be who you think he is, what do you do? The appropriately named Schock sisters get involved in this shocking mind bending situation. What happens next is hard to imagine.
What would it be like to have your child kidnapped and not get him back for years. Crazy but remarkably true. Or is it? When someone tells you that the boy you reared might not be who you think he is, what do you do? The appropriately named Schock sisters get involved in this shocking mind bending situation. What happens next is hard to imagine.
February 7, 2021
Mystery with reserves
I bought this book as I love easy mysteries which this is. It grabbed my attention from the start. The characters were fairly well developed given to humorous conversations. It wasn't until 3\4 through the story that I could sort out the details to solve the kidnapping. What concerns me is the amount of unnecessary swearing. For this reason I gave it only two stars. I won't read any more by these authors.
I bought this book as I love easy mysteries which this is. It grabbed my attention from the start. The characters were fairly well developed given to humorous conversations. It wasn't until 3\4 through the story that I could sort out the details to solve the kidnapping. What concerns me is the amount of unnecessary swearing. For this reason I gave it only two stars. I won't read any more by these authors.
December 27, 2021
A slightly weird detective mystery about adoption, natural parents and a mystified teenage boy. Various unexplained characters keep popping up and participating in the goings-on without any rationale as to who they are and where they came from. The story alternates back and forth between the narrative of two over-sexed sisters who operate a detective agency and it is easy to get mixed up over who is doing what to who.
May 5, 2022
I enjoyed this as much as the first book although I think Megs character was made a much stronger person in this one which was not necessarily a good thing. I understood she was being strong for her sister but ultimately she wouldn’t have been able to shake her anxieties etc to that degree without a much bigger fall out for her. Saying that I love the dynamic between the two sisters and would love to read more of their adventures.
August 26, 2025
In this second book of the Schock sister series, the story is more around Charlie than Meg, although they still collaborate and work together. But Charlie is the one who has to solve a question of a long ago case of hers when she was with the FBI. I thought I had the solution a couple of times but the twists and turns in this story will keep you guessing – the sign of a good mystery! Can’t wait to read the third book in the series!
April 1, 2020
A Flawed Read
I enjoyed this installment. of the Men and Charlie series until the ending. Why two boys with no genetic connection looked so much alike was not answered. And, the disappearance of Ethan's (or was it Jon) mother was lacking in believability. Even with the flaws I recommend this novel as a worthy read.
I enjoyed this installment. of the Men and Charlie series until the ending. Why two boys with no genetic connection looked so much alike was not answered. And, the disappearance of Ethan's (or was it Jon) mother was lacking in believability. Even with the flaws I recommend this novel as a worthy read.
January 19, 2021
Wow
Enthralling mystery that takes the reader through every emotion as the Schock sisters race to find the truth. Very well written and plotted, I couldn't put this down. A really well thought out story with twists and stingers along the way. Great characters that are easy to like and invest in their stories. Well done. Highly recommended.
Enthralling mystery that takes the reader through every emotion as the Schock sisters race to find the truth. Very well written and plotted, I couldn't put this down. A really well thought out story with twists and stingers along the way. Great characters that are easy to like and invest in their stories. Well done. Highly recommended.
January 22, 2021
A great read, throughly enjoyed this book
Loved the style of writing. The author keeps the reader engaged, as the story unfolds of kidnap and return of the victim. Followed by genetic revelations that provide evidence that the wrong child was returned. The story takes a few twists and turns, then the final chapter throws up a surprise. Great ending and love the touch of romance
Loved the style of writing. The author keeps the reader engaged, as the story unfolds of kidnap and return of the victim. Followed by genetic revelations that provide evidence that the wrong child was returned. The story takes a few twists and turns, then the final chapter throws up a surprise. Great ending and love the touch of romance
January 28, 2021
Well written and interesting
The start of the book is a little slow to develop and it gets confusing the way the author writes it from different points of view, BUT it was a great book and I couldn’t put it down once the twists and turns started. It was very well written and flows nicely. The characters are so genuine. Awesome book.
The start of the book is a little slow to develop and it gets confusing the way the author writes it from different points of view, BUT it was a great book and I couldn’t put it down once the twists and turns started. It was very well written and flows nicely. The characters are so genuine. Awesome book.
January 30, 2022
A little to a lot!
This book has a little of this and a little of that to add up to a lot of story! There is a little romance, a little mystery, a little family, a little friendship, a little sadness, a little joy, and so on, but the end result is a whole lot of life wrapped up in the covers of a book. The characters are realistic, flaws and all. Fun read!
This book has a little of this and a little of that to add up to a lot of story! There is a little romance, a little mystery, a little family, a little friendship, a little sadness, a little joy, and so on, but the end result is a whole lot of life wrapped up in the covers of a book. The characters are realistic, flaws and all. Fun read!
November 12, 2022
**3.5 Stars Really**
I struggled with this book. I really enjoyed the 1st book of this series, but this one...
I felt like the authors were criticized for the slower pacing (which I LOVED) and decided to make this book hit after hit after hit for the first 50-75% of the story.
Having said that, I did like this book. I liked the story line. I wanted to know what happened to Ethan, who his real family was, who the real Ethan was, etc.
About 75-80% of the way through, I realized the big plot twist, but the ending was still enjoyable. Also, had it ended the other way for Charlie, I would have lost it. Straight-up, these two authors would have immediately gone to my "Never, ever, EVER read again" list. As it stands, I'm open to reading more of their books, including the 3rd Schock Sisters novel.
I struggled with this book. I really enjoyed the 1st book of this series, but this one...
I felt like the authors were criticized for the slower pacing (which I LOVED) and decided to make this book hit after hit after hit for the first 50-75% of the story.
Having said that, I did like this book. I liked the story line. I wanted to know what happened to Ethan, who his real family was, who the real Ethan was, etc.
About 75-80% of the way through, I realized the big plot twist, but the ending was still enjoyable. Also, had it ended the other way for Charlie, I would have lost it. Straight-up, these two authors would have immediately gone to my "Never, ever, EVER read again" list. As it stands, I'm open to reading more of their books, including the 3rd Schock Sisters novel.
January 8, 2021
Couldn't put it down!
I absolutely devoured this book! I had previously read books by these authors but I stumbled upon this series by accident. Great story with awesome cast of characters! Can't wait to read more from these two!
I absolutely devoured this book! I had previously read books by these authors but I stumbled upon this series by accident. Great story with awesome cast of characters! Can't wait to read more from these two!
January 8, 2021
Loved this book
This book captured my attention from the very beginning. Although a few errors that needed a good editor, it was a well written and intriguing story. The characters were endearing and makes you want to read more. I definitely recommend this book.
This book captured my attention from the very beginning. Although a few errors that needed a good editor, it was a well written and intriguing story. The characters were endearing and makes you want to read more. I definitely recommend this book.
January 22, 2021
Fantastic book
All along I was expecting the story to go one way. But Misty and Adrienne fooled me and instead have the most awesome plot twist. I have to watch for their next book.
All along I was expecting the story to go one way. But Misty and Adrienne fooled me and instead have the most awesome plot twist. I have to watch for their next book.
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