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Lilah Love #1
Murder Notes
New York Times bestselling author Lisa Renee Jones’s heart-pounding thriller of a woman’s secrets—and a past that’s about to come out of hiding…
As an FBI profiler, it’s Lilah Love’s job to think like a killer. And she is very good at her job. When a series of murders surface—the victims all stripped naked and shot in the head—Lilah’s instincts tell her it’s the work of an assassin, not a serial killer. But when the case takes her back to her hometown in the Hamptons and a mysterious but unmistakable connection to her own life, all her assumptions are shaken to the core.
Thrust into a troubled past she’s tried to shut the door on, Lilah’s back in the town where her father is mayor, her brother is police chief, and she has an intimate history with the local crime lord’s son, Kane Mendez. The two share a devastating secret, and only Kane understands Lilah’s own darkest impulses. As more corpses surface, so does a series of anonymous notes to Lilah, threatening to expose her. Is the killer someone in her own circle? And is she the next target?
As an FBI profiler, it’s Lilah Love’s job to think like a killer. And she is very good at her job. When a series of murders surface—the victims all stripped naked and shot in the head—Lilah’s instincts tell her it’s the work of an assassin, not a serial killer. But when the case takes her back to her hometown in the Hamptons and a mysterious but unmistakable connection to her own life, all her assumptions are shaken to the core.
Thrust into a troubled past she’s tried to shut the door on, Lilah’s back in the town where her father is mayor, her brother is police chief, and she has an intimate history with the local crime lord’s son, Kane Mendez. The two share a devastating secret, and only Kane understands Lilah’s own darkest impulses. As more corpses surface, so does a series of anonymous notes to Lilah, threatening to expose her. Is the killer someone in her own circle? And is she the next target?
276 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 27, 2018
3281 people are currently reading
10886 people want to read
About the author
Lisa Renee Jones
373 books14.6k followersNew York Times and USA Today bestselling author Lisa Renee Jones is the author of the highly acclaimed INSIDE OUT series. Suzanne Todd (producer of Alice in Wonderland) on the INSIDE OUT series: Lisa has created a beautiful, complicated, and sensual world that is filled with intrigue and suspense. Sara’s character is strong, flawed, complex, and sexy - a modern girl we all can identify with.
In addition to the success of Lisa's INSIDE OUT series, she has published many successful titles. The TALL, DARK AND DEADLY series and THE SECRET LIFE OF AMY BENSEN series, both spent several months on a combination of the New York Times and USA Today bestselling lists. Lisa is presently working on a dark, edgy new series, Dirty Money, for St. Martin's Press.
Prior to publishing Lisa owned multi-state staffing agency that was recognized many times by The Austin Business Journal and also praised by the Dallas Women's Magazine. In 1998 Lisa was listed as the #7 growing women owned business in Entrepreneur Magazine.
Lisa loves to hear from her readers. You can reach her at www.lisareneejones.com and she is active on Twitter and Facebook daily.
In addition to the success of Lisa's INSIDE OUT series, she has published many successful titles. The TALL, DARK AND DEADLY series and THE SECRET LIFE OF AMY BENSEN series, both spent several months on a combination of the New York Times and USA Today bestselling lists. Lisa is presently working on a dark, edgy new series, Dirty Money, for St. Martin's Press.
Prior to publishing Lisa owned multi-state staffing agency that was recognized many times by The Austin Business Journal and also praised by the Dallas Women's Magazine. In 1998 Lisa was listed as the #7 growing women owned business in Entrepreneur Magazine.
Lisa loves to hear from her readers. You can reach her at www.lisareneejones.com and she is active on Twitter and Facebook daily.
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December 22, 2020The next TWO Lilah Love books, BLOODY VOWS and BLOODY LOVE, are available for pre-order!
ABOUT BLOODY VOWS
FBI agent Lilah Love leads a complicated life. She's engaged to Kane Mendez, a man most call dangerous, but hey birds of a feather, do flock together. She's dangerous, too, and in ways only Kane understands. As for their happily ever after, well that might have to wait. Right now, an old enemy who should be dead is still living, Junior, her mystery letter writer, is stirring up trouble, and her family is trying to prove they're crazier than her. On top of that she has a new case: a dead woman in a bloody wedding dress. And since Lilah knows all too well there is no such thing as coincidence, clearly someone is sending her yet another message.
PRE-ORDER BLOODY VOWS
Amazon → http://mybook.to/BLAmz
Apple → https://apple.co/2BiXOk2
Nook → https://bit.ly/3g8P7rc
Kobo → https://bit.ly/2ZrSRNw
PRE-ORDER BLOODY LOVE
Amazon → http://mybook.to/BloodyLove
Apple → https://apple.co/3hR4aGt
Nook → https://bit.ly/3ktfytT
Kobo → https://bit.ly/3mnm72V
Get the entire series on ALL RETAILERS!
BUY MURDER NOTES
Amazon → http://mybook.to/MurderNotes
Apple → https://apple.co/2RJwGPI
Nook → https://bit.ly/3clcs8h
Kobo → https://bit.ly/3iSDruq
Audible → https://adbl.co/3dGOgfK
BUY MURDER GIRL
Amazon → http://mybook.to/MurderGirl
Apple → https://apple.co/3hRgSoK
Nook → https://bit.ly/3iSCYIJ
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Audible → https://adbl.co/2BUZXC6
BUY LOVE ME DEAD
Amazon → http://mybook.to/LMDAmz
Apple → https://apple.co/2pzLn9R
Nook → http://bit.ly/2Pd8uSE
Kobo → http://bit.ly/2VwNTeT
Audible → https://adbl.co/2HjTgcP
BUY LOVE KILLS
Amazon → http://mybook.to/LKAmz
Apple → https://apple.co/2EHADyq
Nook → http://bit.ly/2Hc8BNd
Kobo → http://bit.ly/2SDromL
Audible → https://adbl.co/398AVM3
PRE-ORDER BLOODY VOWS
Amazon → http://mybook.to/BLAmz
Apple → https://apple.co/2BiXOk2
Nook → https://bit.ly/3g8P7rc
Kobo → https://bit.ly/2ZrSRNw
PRE-ORDER BLOODY LOVE
Amazon → http://mybook.to/BloodyLove
Apple → https://apple.co/3hR4aGt
Nook → https://bit.ly/3ktfytT
Kobo → https://bit.ly/3mnm72V
ABOUT BLOODY VOWS
FBI agent Lilah Love leads a complicated life. She's engaged to Kane Mendez, a man most call dangerous, but hey birds of a feather, do flock together. She's dangerous, too, and in ways only Kane understands. As for their happily ever after, well that might have to wait. Right now, an old enemy who should be dead is still living, Junior, her mystery letter writer, is stirring up trouble, and her family is trying to prove they're crazier than her. On top of that she has a new case: a dead woman in a bloody wedding dress. And since Lilah knows all too well there is no such thing as coincidence, clearly someone is sending her yet another message.
PRE-ORDER BLOODY VOWS
Amazon → http://mybook.to/BLAmz
Apple → https://apple.co/2BiXOk2
Nook → https://bit.ly/3g8P7rc
Kobo → https://bit.ly/2ZrSRNw
PRE-ORDER BLOODY LOVE
Amazon → http://mybook.to/BloodyLove
Apple → https://apple.co/3hR4aGt
Nook → https://bit.ly/3ktfytT
Kobo → https://bit.ly/3mnm72V
Get the entire series on ALL RETAILERS!
BUY MURDER NOTES
Amazon → http://mybook.to/MurderNotes
Apple → https://apple.co/2RJwGPI
Nook → https://bit.ly/3clcs8h
Kobo → https://bit.ly/3iSDruq
Audible → https://adbl.co/3dGOgfK
BUY MURDER GIRL
Amazon → http://mybook.to/MurderGirl
Apple → https://apple.co/3hRgSoK
Nook → https://bit.ly/3iSCYIJ
Kobo → https://bit.ly/2RL4VGf
Audible → https://adbl.co/2BUZXC6
BUY LOVE ME DEAD
Amazon → http://mybook.to/LMDAmz
Apple → https://apple.co/2pzLn9R
Nook → http://bit.ly/2Pd8uSE
Kobo → http://bit.ly/2VwNTeT
Audible → https://adbl.co/2HjTgcP
BUY LOVE KILLS
Amazon → http://mybook.to/LKAmz
Apple → https://apple.co/2EHADyq
Nook → http://bit.ly/2Hc8BNd
Kobo → http://bit.ly/2SDromL
Audible → https://adbl.co/398AVM3
PRE-ORDER BLOODY VOWS
Amazon → http://mybook.to/BLAmz
Apple → https://apple.co/2BiXOk2
Nook → https://bit.ly/3g8P7rc
Kobo → https://bit.ly/2ZrSRNw
PRE-ORDER BLOODY LOVE
Amazon → http://mybook.to/BloodyLove
Apple → https://apple.co/3hR4aGt
Nook → https://bit.ly/3ktfytT
Kobo → https://bit.ly/3mnm72V
July 2, 2018
Currently on sale!
Amazon US * Amazon UK
Putting this review into words is very difficult right now because the only thing my brain is doing is screaming "I need more!"
This book takes you on twists and turns through secrets and murder, and I loved every second of it. It follows Lilah Love, a FBI agent with a big secret, as she heads back to her hometown after being led there by a killer. Told completely in Lilah's POV, it weaves a tale so suspenseful you'll catch yourself checking your locks and looking out for a stalker.
As much as I was dying for answers and wanted so bad to just skip to the end, I actually thought the slower pace of the story was perfect. It added so much intrigue and gave me time to try and figure out what all the secrets were. I loved that it captivated me so much and had me on the edge the entire time. There was always something happening between these pages that had me questioning everything.
For some reason I actually haven't read Lisa Renee Jones in a long time and it's something I'm regretting very much right now. This book brought back every reason that I love her writing. She has the ability to write so much information into a story without it ever being too wordy, and instead it just keeps me on the edge of my seat. I'm already dying to read the next installment of the Lila Love series and I'm not ashamed to beg for it.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
Amazon US * Amazon UK
Putting this review into words is very difficult right now because the only thing my brain is doing is screaming "I need more!"
This book takes you on twists and turns through secrets and murder, and I loved every second of it. It follows Lilah Love, a FBI agent with a big secret, as she heads back to her hometown after being led there by a killer. Told completely in Lilah's POV, it weaves a tale so suspenseful you'll catch yourself checking your locks and looking out for a stalker.
As much as I was dying for answers and wanted so bad to just skip to the end, I actually thought the slower pace of the story was perfect. It added so much intrigue and gave me time to try and figure out what all the secrets were. I loved that it captivated me so much and had me on the edge the entire time. There was always something happening between these pages that had me questioning everything.
For some reason I actually haven't read Lisa Renee Jones in a long time and it's something I'm regretting very much right now. This book brought back every reason that I love her writing. She has the ability to write so much information into a story without it ever being too wordy, and instead it just keeps me on the edge of my seat. I'm already dying to read the next installment of the Lila Love series and I'm not ashamed to beg for it.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
March 26, 2018
I don't know where to begin with this review. I kind of just want to say it was AMAZING so go forth and read it ASAP (or rather in March, when it's published *lol*). I can't believe I was so late to the game with this author. Every single book I have read since I discovered her (four) have been outstanding and this one was no different in that respect. I have no idea how the author expects me to just sit here patiently waiting for book two??
So deets...this wasn't really a romance book. I wouldn't even say it was a romantic suspense book. More a thriller with some romantic undertones. So don't go into it expecting some hot sex. There is really only one sex scene, and it was very tame. The romance reader in me struggled with this and one other issue (Samantha). I think it's hard sometimes when you read a lot of romance to separate expectations. Especially when the book has some romantic undertones. I am not even sure if that makes sense, but "I" wanted more sex and I could have done without the whole "Samantha" scenario. <--- that's the romance reader talking. Both were small issues that genuinely shouldn't have bothered me but like I said I struggled to separate my feelings in this case, so they did.
That said, I found this one to be fantastically well written and well paced. The plot was engaging and kept me turning the pages. I LOVE all things serial killer, profiling, criminal minds, etc. I eat TV shows like that up by the spoonful and this book would make a fabulous TV series for sure. The plot was intricate and full of twists and turns. The author does an excellent job of laying the groundwork for what I can only assume will be an epic and far-reaching conspiracy. There is a full cast of characters that make up this book. Each one intriguing. Each one mysterious. Each one potentially hiding secrets. My mind is a bit of a muddle trying to figure out who is doing what and why. Who is dirty? Who isn't? Some I loved. Some I hated. Some remain a mystery waiting to be exposed. Kane I LOVED. Who doesn't love a smokin' hot bad boy? But what is he hiding? Can he be trusted? Lilah I ADORED. I struggle with alpha heroines A LOT but Lilah just worked for me on every level. She was strong. She was feisty. She was funny. She was badass. But she was also vulnerable especially when it came to Kane. The only man that has ever understood her. Last, we were left with a decent cliffhanger that will make you want to hunt down this author and force her to give you book two tout suite!
All in all, this was a fantastic first book in a series I am sure will blow a lot of readers right out of the water. Therefore yours truly will give this one two HUGE thumbs up.
January 15, 2018
I have no idea how to put into words all the feelings I had when I read this book.
Seriously, all over the place..... In many good ways, let me add....
When I first started out reading this, I am not a person that reads a lot of suspense, Murder, and mystery books so I was optimistic starting this one out. With saying that, this book is exactly those things. A lot of mystery, multiple murders, and an overload of suspense. It has several hot as hell men, current lovers, past lovers, ex-partners, co-workers, exfriends, stepbrothers, brothers, I can literally go on and on. Every time I thought I figured this plot out, someone New was introduced to throw me way off.
Lila is a FBI profiler detective that’s investigating a series of murders that takes her back to her home town where her nightmare began. She hasn’t been back “home” in over two years. She’s got some dark secrets she’s hidden and kept in the past. These are told in bits over the entire book. She has a very dangerous, sexy as hell, troubled headmafia, billionaire ex boyfriend and he is her biggest temptation to deal with. They definitely have a lot of unfinished business. And a completely unresolved love that he very much wants to address.
These two have such an intense chemistry with burning passions but how will Lila deal with it if Kane is a suspect in her long line of possible killers/murderers.
Let me say this, this story isn’t about the love story, To me, it’s a complete suspense read, with a side of burning love. I am looking forward to finding out in the next book just exactly what the F is going on because right now, I’m so overly confused and need answers as to what the heck just happened🙏🏻😩
If you love you some suspense, alpha bad boys, and a lot of blood, you'll want to check this one out!!
.
Seriously, all over the place..... In many good ways, let me add....
When I first started out reading this, I am not a person that reads a lot of suspense, Murder, and mystery books so I was optimistic starting this one out. With saying that, this book is exactly those things. A lot of mystery, multiple murders, and an overload of suspense. It has several hot as hell men, current lovers, past lovers, ex-partners, co-workers, exfriends, stepbrothers, brothers, I can literally go on and on. Every time I thought I figured this plot out, someone New was introduced to throw me way off.
Lila is a FBI profiler detective that’s investigating a series of murders that takes her back to her home town where her nightmare began. She hasn’t been back “home” in over two years. She’s got some dark secrets she’s hidden and kept in the past. These are told in bits over the entire book. She has a very dangerous, sexy as hell, troubled headmafia, billionaire ex boyfriend and he is her biggest temptation to deal with. They definitely have a lot of unfinished business. And a completely unresolved love that he very much wants to address.
These two have such an intense chemistry with burning passions but how will Lila deal with it if Kane is a suspect in her long line of possible killers/murderers.
Let me say this, this story isn’t about the love story, To me, it’s a complete suspense read, with a side of burning love. I am looking forward to finding out in the next book just exactly what the F is going on because right now, I’m so overly confused and need answers as to what the heck just happened🙏🏻😩
If you love you some suspense, alpha bad boys, and a lot of blood, you'll want to check this one out!!
.
December 13, 2018
Buddy read with Leonor
My 1st buddy read with my bestie, actually my 1st buddy read at all!
We chose the book carefully, we paid attention to the blurb and to the premise – and what can be better than a badass heroine?! – well, we thought we did it right, but it turned out to be a big disappointment.
Our review and our rating refers mostly to the romantic part of the story.
We don’t discuss author’s writing and the suspense aspect, which wasn’t that clear for both of us, but let’s shift it to our lack of imagination ;-)
This review contains spoilers, not much about twists, but about different love interests and our triggers.
If you’re planning to read this book, don’t click the below spoiler.
Thanks Leonor for good collaboration and above all her patience!
Next time we’ll have more luck with our buddy read, I feel it!
My 1st buddy read with my bestie, actually my 1st buddy read at all!
We chose the book carefully, we paid attention to the blurb and to the premise – and what can be better than a badass heroine?! – well, we thought we did it right, but it turned out to be a big disappointment.
Our review and our rating refers mostly to the romantic part of the story.
We don’t discuss author’s writing and the suspense aspect, which wasn’t that clear for both of us, but let’s shift it to our lack of imagination ;-)
This review contains spoilers, not much about twists, but about different love interests and our triggers.
If you’re planning to read this book, don’t click the below spoiler.
Thanks Leonor for good collaboration and above all her patience!
Next time we’ll have more luck with our buddy read, I feel it!
March 27, 2018
Check out all of my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
NOOOOOOO!!!
One of the best starts this year to a new Romantic Suspense series with fantastic characters and Lisa left me hanging!
MURDER NOTES (Lilah Love, #1) by Lisa Renee Jones had me quickly turning the pages and falling into the story to the exclusion of all else. Lilah Love is an FBI profiler with an extremely abrasive personality, foul mouth and a secret that could destroy her career. Also, she loves, but refuses to allow it, the gorgeous head of a multinational conglomerate, Kane Mendez, that when run by his father was more of an illegal Mexican cartel than corporation.
When Lilah starts looking into a series of murders, which she believes are assassinations, they lead her back to her hometown in the Hamptons. What becomes apparent to Lilah is that all the murders lead to a secret from her past that she believes was only between herself and Kane Mendez, her former lover. As the body count increases, so do taunting notes from the person who has been hiring the assassin. Lilah has to work this case without exposing her past, while catching a killer who may be from her own family or circle of friends.
Lilah Love, who calls herself “Murder Girl” is the type of character that I love to follow. An FBI profiler, but with a secret in her past that could destroy her future. She loves the “F” word and is confrontational, but she also loves to be a woman who dresses in designer clothes and loves her family. The sexual heat that flies between Lilah and Kane could spark a wild fire in a snow storm. I cannot wait to get the next book in this series! You need to read this book yourself and get ready for the next one, too.
Thanks very much to Montlake Romance and Net Galley for allowing me to review this eARC in exchange for an honest review. I am anxiously awaiting more!
NOOOOOOO!!!
One of the best starts this year to a new Romantic Suspense series with fantastic characters and Lisa left me hanging!
MURDER NOTES (Lilah Love, #1) by Lisa Renee Jones had me quickly turning the pages and falling into the story to the exclusion of all else. Lilah Love is an FBI profiler with an extremely abrasive personality, foul mouth and a secret that could destroy her career. Also, she loves, but refuses to allow it, the gorgeous head of a multinational conglomerate, Kane Mendez, that when run by his father was more of an illegal Mexican cartel than corporation.
When Lilah starts looking into a series of murders, which she believes are assassinations, they lead her back to her hometown in the Hamptons. What becomes apparent to Lilah is that all the murders lead to a secret from her past that she believes was only between herself and Kane Mendez, her former lover. As the body count increases, so do taunting notes from the person who has been hiring the assassin. Lilah has to work this case without exposing her past, while catching a killer who may be from her own family or circle of friends.
Lilah Love, who calls herself “Murder Girl” is the type of character that I love to follow. An FBI profiler, but with a secret in her past that could destroy her future. She loves the “F” word and is confrontational, but she also loves to be a woman who dresses in designer clothes and loves her family. The sexual heat that flies between Lilah and Kane could spark a wild fire in a snow storm. I cannot wait to get the next book in this series! You need to read this book yourself and get ready for the next one, too.
Thanks very much to Montlake Romance and Net Galley for allowing me to review this eARC in exchange for an honest review. I am anxiously awaiting more!
October 11, 2019
2nd read: Im refreshing myself in this series for the newest release coming up. Still awesome!
1st read: Holy Moley this was an incredible read!!! Our main girl, Lilah Love...you gotta love that name, was a fantastic heroine. She's FBI. She's strong. She's independent and she's haunted by an event that happened two years ago to change her life forever. She's thrust back to her home town investigating what could possibly bring things to light she would rather stay hidden. She made for a riveting main character to follow along during her investigations.
Kane is Lilah's past love interest who doesn't want to stay in the past. He's also a part of the night that changed Lilah. In this first book, their relationship is referred to a lot however it wasn't a main focus to the story. The author keeps bringing us back to her and Kane, but the focus is more on the investigation into the murders.
There are quite a few side characters and each one add an extra element to the story. The way the author wrote this, I felt it was very easy to follow and keep everyone straight. Most of these side characters had me just as riveted as Lilah and Kane. I'm really looking forward to seeing who is a part of the investigations and who is innocent.
Murder Notes does end on a cliffhanger and you are going to want the second book immediately. I absolutely loved this book and I highly recommend grabbing this one up.
1st read: Holy Moley this was an incredible read!!! Our main girl, Lilah Love...you gotta love that name, was a fantastic heroine. She's FBI. She's strong. She's independent and she's haunted by an event that happened two years ago to change her life forever. She's thrust back to her home town investigating what could possibly bring things to light she would rather stay hidden. She made for a riveting main character to follow along during her investigations.
Kane is Lilah's past love interest who doesn't want to stay in the past. He's also a part of the night that changed Lilah. In this first book, their relationship is referred to a lot however it wasn't a main focus to the story. The author keeps bringing us back to her and Kane, but the focus is more on the investigation into the murders.
There are quite a few side characters and each one add an extra element to the story. The way the author wrote this, I felt it was very easy to follow and keep everyone straight. Most of these side characters had me just as riveted as Lilah and Kane. I'm really looking forward to seeing who is a part of the investigations and who is innocent.
Murder Notes does end on a cliffhanger and you are going to want the second book immediately. I absolutely loved this book and I highly recommend grabbing this one up.
March 13, 2018
Genre: Mystery/Thriller
POVs: Singular, first-person
Writing style: 3/5
Likability of heroine: 4/5
Triggers?
Lilah Love is a twenty-eight year-old FBI profiler working on a murder investigation in California when she’s entrusted by her boss to travel to New York to draw parallels to a case being investigated there. Upon her arrival, she receives word that another body has been found and she makes a beeline to the crime scene. At first it’s unclear if and how the cases are related but it’s up to Lilah to connect the dots. New York is her old stomping ground and a place where she left one big secret buried two years ago. Within hours of her arrival she receives the first of several notes from an unidentified stalker. Lila analyzes the first murder note for clues about the sender but the subsequent notes are not handled with care or closely examined.
Loved
First time reading this author’s work and I loved Lilah’s humor! The snack size bites of catty female foolery also made me smirk a lot.
Issues
This was not a spine-chilling or highly thrilling read. Lilah spent endless pages trying to figure out who she could trust and this story was devoid of action, despite all fifteen of the references to Lilah’s shotgun, Cujo. Basically, Lilah spent the entire story chasing her tail, creating more unanswered questions, and not quite having a sense of direction. As a result, my interest in the story began declining around the 59% mark when Lila’s thoughts became repetitive and the story seemed to fizzle. Lilah’s every thought was fed to the reader so any surprises on her part was nonexistent. She wasn’t the wild card she was supposed to be around all of the other characters because there was more telling than showing of her expertise. Essentially, she proclaimed to the reader that she was an expert profiler and the other characters regurgitated that back to her, but demonstration was weak. Bits of Lilah’s thoughts?
I was Lilah Love then, but now, damn it, I am Murder Girl. I’m her because dead bodies have a way of talking to me, and if they didn’t, there would be more dead bodies, more murders I didn’t stop. So yes. I’m Murder-f*cking-Girl. I can hunt a killer and catch them. I can find a way out of this.
Not to mention how joke-worthy Lilah’s full name is...
Other issues?
The one steamy scene was so vague that I had to reread it several times to make sense of it. All of that sexual tension, self-denial, and lust built up to a peek-a-boo intimacy scene that didn’t seem necessary to include.
Caught in the crosshairs of Lilah’s profiling gig is her ex-lover, Kane Mendez. All of the references to Kane being “the devil” and “Satan” lacked that gripping intensity and the other secondary characters were mostly superficial. I wanted to love-to-hate Kane, but the character depth wasn’t enough for me all around. There was also a half-hearted attempt to create a strong romantic push-and-pull between Lilah and Detective Rich, but I didn’t understand why he pursued her so strongly. The connection between the two felt forced in order to create some more drama-rich tension.
◈ The gist of this story?
No one is shooting straight with me. Everyone is talking in circles.
-Lilah
It felt like nothing much happened in this story and I grew bored over time. This book has a light tone and is perfect for a reader who won’t be frustrated by the lack of resolution behind the mysterious deaths for which the entire plot is centered around. I was expecting more investigative details and didn’t realize this story wasn’t a stand-alone book until the end. I guess that explains all of the six feet tall and good-looking men sprinkled throughout the text...
*NetGalley ARC generously provided by Montlake Romance in exchange for an honest review.
POVs: Singular, first-person
Writing style: 3/5
Likability of heroine: 4/5
Triggers?
Lilah Love is a twenty-eight year-old FBI profiler working on a murder investigation in California when she’s entrusted by her boss to travel to New York to draw parallels to a case being investigated there. Upon her arrival, she receives word that another body has been found and she makes a beeline to the crime scene. At first it’s unclear if and how the cases are related but it’s up to Lilah to connect the dots. New York is her old stomping ground and a place where she left one big secret buried two years ago. Within hours of her arrival she receives the first of several notes from an unidentified stalker. Lila analyzes the first murder note for clues about the sender but the subsequent notes are not handled with care or closely examined.
Loved
First time reading this author’s work and I loved Lilah’s humor! The snack size bites of catty female foolery also made me smirk a lot.
Issues
This was not a spine-chilling or highly thrilling read. Lilah spent endless pages trying to figure out who she could trust and this story was devoid of action, despite all fifteen of the references to Lilah’s shotgun, Cujo. Basically, Lilah spent the entire story chasing her tail, creating more unanswered questions, and not quite having a sense of direction. As a result, my interest in the story began declining around the 59% mark when Lila’s thoughts became repetitive and the story seemed to fizzle. Lilah’s every thought was fed to the reader so any surprises on her part was nonexistent. She wasn’t the wild card she was supposed to be around all of the other characters because there was more telling than showing of her expertise. Essentially, she proclaimed to the reader that she was an expert profiler and the other characters regurgitated that back to her, but demonstration was weak. Bits of Lilah’s thoughts?
I was Lilah Love then, but now, damn it, I am Murder Girl. I’m her because dead bodies have a way of talking to me, and if they didn’t, there would be more dead bodies, more murders I didn’t stop. So yes. I’m Murder-f*cking-Girl. I can hunt a killer and catch them. I can find a way out of this.
Not to mention how joke-worthy Lilah’s full name is...
Other issues?
The one steamy scene was so vague that I had to reread it several times to make sense of it. All of that sexual tension, self-denial, and lust built up to a peek-a-boo intimacy scene that didn’t seem necessary to include.
Caught in the crosshairs of Lilah’s profiling gig is her ex-lover, Kane Mendez. All of the references to Kane being “the devil” and “Satan” lacked that gripping intensity and the other secondary characters were mostly superficial. I wanted to love-to-hate Kane, but the character depth wasn’t enough for me all around. There was also a half-hearted attempt to create a strong romantic push-and-pull between Lilah and Detective Rich, but I didn’t understand why he pursued her so strongly. The connection between the two felt forced in order to create some more drama-rich tension.
◈ The gist of this story?
No one is shooting straight with me. Everyone is talking in circles.
-Lilah
It felt like nothing much happened in this story and I grew bored over time. This book has a light tone and is perfect for a reader who won’t be frustrated by the lack of resolution behind the mysterious deaths for which the entire plot is centered around. I was expecting more investigative details and didn’t realize this story wasn’t a stand-alone book until the end. I guess that explains all of the six feet tall and good-looking men sprinkled throughout the text...
*NetGalley ARC generously provided by Montlake Romance in exchange for an honest review.
May 11, 2021
Murder Girl
Definitely a 4. Lisa has written an, I can't wait to read the next book thriller series. Good character descriptions and a plot with twist and turns that keeps you on your toes. Murders, a list of suspects, romance and lots of mysterious. I received this book at no cost from the author and Amazon and this is my honest review.
Definitely a 4. Lisa has written an, I can't wait to read the next book thriller series. Good character descriptions and a plot with twist and turns that keeps you on your toes. Murders, a list of suspects, romance and lots of mysterious. I received this book at no cost from the author and Amazon and this is my honest review.
March 27, 2018
Lilah is a 28 year old FBI profiler living in Los Angeles.
Something bad happened in her hometown in the Hamptons a couple years ago, but now she's living an okay life as a successful agent away from the town, her family and her ex - her Dad is the mayor, her brother is the police chief and her ex is the son of the town's 'crime lord'.
But a series of dead bodies lead her back to Long Island. And it's not a coincidence. Something, or rather someone is leaving clues that are connecting the killings to Lilah.
Does someone know about the secret she's been hiding?
Only her ex Kane knows about it.
If she doesn't want to lose her career and her life and that of the people she loves, she needs to find the killer and/or the person who ordered the killings.
But it's not that easy with her family and the whole Island knowing her and watching her every move. Unable to trust anyone! And with the bad guys always one step ahead ... .
WHAT WILL HAPPEN TO LILAH???
WILL SHE CATCH THE BAD GUY???
READ THE BOOK TO FIND OUT ☺
════════════════════
Well, that was exciting!!
I really enjoyed reading it.
It's so completely different from other LRJ books.
It's a mystery thriller suspense thingy. Not a romance. Which sounds a bit bad for a romance lover like me - but don't worry - there are some shades of romance in here - and there might be more coming. ☺
I couldn't stop reading. I just had to know who and what and why and how and what will happen next??? And who can we trust and who is bad and who not and grrrrrr!?!?!
And I also wanted Lilah to find her happily ever after - but since it's not a romance, that might not happen ... yet. There are a few candidates though. ☺
We will also get a tiny little cliffy. The second book will be out in July. BUT - Lisa is really good with putting little summaries into the front of the second book in a series! Very good for people with #Bookalzheimers!
Anyway. I really enjoyed this story.
It was super exciting and suspensy and mysterious ... you just can't stop reading!
You want to hurry to the end of the book and catch the bad guy(s) with Lilah! ☺ And then we want to see everyone live happily ever after.
But the story is not only completely thrillerish. It's also the story of Lilah. A bit funny, a bit moving, a bit heartbreaking, a bit hopeless.... Lilah is a very complex character. She's really funny and sarcastic and ... kinda amazing and strong. But also very broken and hurt. And she's not really trying to heal from what happened. She also doesn't really give the men in her life a chance to fight for her. She's ... very ... complicated. That is definitely what Lilah's Facebook status would say. Not only her FB status - her life status! ☺ #Complicated
A few readers might even think the story was a bit complicated too. There are LOTS of names and people and suspects and family and ex partners and whatnot in this book. But surpisingly, I almost always knew who we were talking about ... that kinda never happens to me - I'm confused extremely easily! ☺
I also loved how Lisa described everything. I felt like I was right there with Lilah. I even tasted her chips and smelled Kane's cologne and felt the moist ocean air. Amazingly written. Some might even say that the detailing was a bit too much, but I really liked it!
Ok - that's it.
Really great book. There's nothing more I could think of to say - there is lots I could say - but I don't want to spoil too much - you need to read it!!!
If you want to compare it to a TV Show, I would say it's a mix of Criminal Minds & Revenge!
I wouldn't mind seeing this on Netflix one day!!! I really need to see Kane!! ☺
MURDER NOTES was such an amazingly exciting & beautifully written mystery thriller! Run to your nearest amazon to find out if and how Lilah will catch the bad guys!
♡
♡
♡
♡
Want to read
November 19, 2025🎁FREE on Amazon & on Apple Book today (12/31/2020)!🎁
💝 ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. 💝
💝 ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. 💝
Read
December 9, 2025JUNIOR HAS A SECRET (BOOK ELEVEN) IS OUT DEC. 18TH!!
GET YOUR COPY HERE
Amazon → https://mybook.to/Sz1g
Apple → https://apple.co/4fiis0F
Nook → https://bit.ly/4f4KDQp
Kobo → https://bit.ly/3D0To0D
Google → https://bit.ly/3VpJ1cV
ABOUT THE BOOK
Lilah's enemies love to taunt her. For some reason, they don't seem to understand how much such things amuse her.
For the first time, she faces an opponent just as cold, and highly calculated.
Lilah. Ghost. A battle between killers.
THE SERIES
MURDER NOTES (BOOK ONE) - FREE
Amazon → http://mybook.to/MurderNotes
Apple → https://apple.co/2RJwGPI
Nook → https://bit.ly/3clcs8h
Kobo → https://bit.ly/3iSDruq
Google → https://bit.ly/31yNdy5
Audible → https://adbl.co/3dGOgfK
MURDER GIRL (BOOK TWO) - Available Now
Amazon → http://mybook.to/MurderGirl
Apple → https://apple.co/3hRgSoK
Nook → https://bit.ly/3iSCYIJ
Kobo → https://bit.ly/2RL4VGf
Google → https://bit.ly/3wkDtCN
Audible → https://adbl.co/2BUZXC6
LOVE ME DEAD (BOOK THREE) - Available Now
Amazon → http://mybook.to/LMDAmz
Apple → https://apple.co/2pzLn9R
Nook → http://bit.ly/2Pd8uSE
Kobo → http://bit.ly/2VwNTeT
Google → https://bit.ly/3nbKC5V
Audible → https://adbl.co/2HjTgcP
LOVE KILLS (BOOK FOUR) - Available Now
Amazon → http://mybook.to/LKAmz
Apple → https://apple.co/2EHADyq
Nook → http://bit.ly/2Hc8BNd
Kobo → http://bit.ly/2SDromL
Google → https://bit.ly/3EKARRK
Audible → https://adbl.co/398AVM3
BLOODY VOWS (BOOK FIVE) - Available Now
Amazon → http://mybook.to/BLAmz
Apple → https://apple.co/2BiXOk2
Nook → https://bit.ly/3g8P7rc
Kobo → https://bit.ly/2ZrSRNw
Google → https://bit.ly/3o6ZUYG
Audible → http://adbl.co/3sDxINt
BLOODY LOVE (BOOK SIX) - Available Now
Amazon → http://mybook.to/BloodyLove
Apple → https://apple.co/3hR4aGt
Nook → https://bit.ly/3ktfytT
Kobo → https://bit.ly/3mnm72V
Google → https://bit.ly/3qadzRd
Audible → https://adbl.co/3pWqG6B
HAPPY DEATH DAY (BOOK SEVEN) - Available Now
Amazon → http://mybook.to/HappyDeathDay
Apple → https://apple.co/3tpAojr
Nook → https://bit.ly/3eyhNeK
Kobo → https://bit.ly/3xQNfwv
Google → https://bit.ly/3o0gCZv
THE PARTY IS OVER (BOOK EIGHT) - Available Now
Amazon → https://mybook.to/PartyOver
Apple → https://apple.co/3LJNqRq
Nook → https://bit.ly/3JuBTn6
Kobo → https://bit.ly/354om6O
Google → https://bit.ly/3HXmpru
THE GHOST ASSASSIN (BOOK NINE) - Available Now
Amazon → https://mybook.to/GhostAssassin/opt/1
Apple → https://apple.co/3UUP7QH
B&N → https://bit.ly/3rkSF16
Kobo → https://bit.ly/3y87g3X
Google → https://bit.ly/3RtcE8k
AGENT VS. ASSASSIN (BOOK TEN) - Available Now
Amazon → https://mybook.to/AvA/opt/1
Apple → https://apple.co/40qPWWC
Nook → https://bit.ly/422135E
Kobo → https://bit.ly/3AlqUO6
Google → https://bit.ly/48tEewh
JUNIOR HAS A SECRET (BOOK ELEVEN) - Releases 12.18.25
Amazon → https://mybook.to/Sz1g
Apple → https://apple.co/4fiis0F
Nook → https://bit.ly/4f4KDQp
Kobo → https://bit.ly/3D0To0D
Google → https://bit.ly/3VpJ1cV
GET YOUR COPY HERE
Amazon → https://mybook.to/Sz1g
Apple → https://apple.co/4fiis0F
Nook → https://bit.ly/4f4KDQp
Kobo → https://bit.ly/3D0To0D
Google → https://bit.ly/3VpJ1cV
ABOUT THE BOOK
Lilah's enemies love to taunt her. For some reason, they don't seem to understand how much such things amuse her.
For the first time, she faces an opponent just as cold, and highly calculated.
Lilah. Ghost. A battle between killers.
THE SERIES
MURDER NOTES (BOOK ONE) - FREE
Amazon → http://mybook.to/MurderNotes
Apple → https://apple.co/2RJwGPI
Nook → https://bit.ly/3clcs8h
Kobo → https://bit.ly/3iSDruq
Google → https://bit.ly/31yNdy5
Audible → https://adbl.co/3dGOgfK
MURDER GIRL (BOOK TWO) - Available Now
Amazon → http://mybook.to/MurderGirl
Apple → https://apple.co/3hRgSoK
Nook → https://bit.ly/3iSCYIJ
Kobo → https://bit.ly/2RL4VGf
Google → https://bit.ly/3wkDtCN
Audible → https://adbl.co/2BUZXC6
LOVE ME DEAD (BOOK THREE) - Available Now
Amazon → http://mybook.to/LMDAmz
Apple → https://apple.co/2pzLn9R
Nook → http://bit.ly/2Pd8uSE
Kobo → http://bit.ly/2VwNTeT
Google → https://bit.ly/3nbKC5V
Audible → https://adbl.co/2HjTgcP
LOVE KILLS (BOOK FOUR) - Available Now
Amazon → http://mybook.to/LKAmz
Apple → https://apple.co/2EHADyq
Nook → http://bit.ly/2Hc8BNd
Kobo → http://bit.ly/2SDromL
Google → https://bit.ly/3EKARRK
Audible → https://adbl.co/398AVM3
BLOODY VOWS (BOOK FIVE) - Available Now
Amazon → http://mybook.to/BLAmz
Apple → https://apple.co/2BiXOk2
Nook → https://bit.ly/3g8P7rc
Kobo → https://bit.ly/2ZrSRNw
Google → https://bit.ly/3o6ZUYG
Audible → http://adbl.co/3sDxINt
BLOODY LOVE (BOOK SIX) - Available Now
Amazon → http://mybook.to/BloodyLove
Apple → https://apple.co/3hR4aGt
Nook → https://bit.ly/3ktfytT
Kobo → https://bit.ly/3mnm72V
Google → https://bit.ly/3qadzRd
Audible → https://adbl.co/3pWqG6B
HAPPY DEATH DAY (BOOK SEVEN) - Available Now
Amazon → http://mybook.to/HappyDeathDay
Apple → https://apple.co/3tpAojr
Nook → https://bit.ly/3eyhNeK
Kobo → https://bit.ly/3xQNfwv
Google → https://bit.ly/3o0gCZv
THE PARTY IS OVER (BOOK EIGHT) - Available Now
Amazon → https://mybook.to/PartyOver
Apple → https://apple.co/3LJNqRq
Nook → https://bit.ly/3JuBTn6
Kobo → https://bit.ly/354om6O
Google → https://bit.ly/3HXmpru
THE GHOST ASSASSIN (BOOK NINE) - Available Now
Amazon → https://mybook.to/GhostAssassin/opt/1
Apple → https://apple.co/3UUP7QH
B&N → https://bit.ly/3rkSF16
Kobo → https://bit.ly/3y87g3X
Google → https://bit.ly/3RtcE8k
AGENT VS. ASSASSIN (BOOK TEN) - Available Now
Amazon → https://mybook.to/AvA/opt/1
Apple → https://apple.co/40qPWWC
Nook → https://bit.ly/422135E
Kobo → https://bit.ly/3AlqUO6
Google → https://bit.ly/48tEewh
JUNIOR HAS A SECRET (BOOK ELEVEN) - Releases 12.18.25
Amazon → https://mybook.to/Sz1g
Apple → https://apple.co/4fiis0F
Nook → https://bit.ly/4f4KDQp
Kobo → https://bit.ly/3D0To0D
Google → https://bit.ly/3VpJ1cV
March 25, 2018
I am a big fan of suspense and I loved Lisa Renee Jones' "Inside Out" series, so I figured I would give this one a go.
Now, even though I love me some murder and suspense, I am also a big fan of romance and I have to say that I found this one a bit lacking in that department. That said, this is just book 1 in the series, so I still have hope
This story is about Lilah, who works as profiler for the FBI. A murder investigation takes her back to her "hometown", where she hasn't been for ages...and there is a reason for that.
Going back to her hometown also puts her back in proximity of her ex...Kane. Kane is part of her haunted past. Kane would love to rekindle the flame between the two of them, but how can they when he is on her list of suspects ......
There are plenty of twists and turns and I definitely spend some time on the edge of my seat !!
Now Lila, she is my type of heroine !! I love me some kickass heroines and Lila didn't shy away from anyone. Sure, she had her trauma's, but she didn't take any shit and I love that !!
I enjoyed this one and I am definitely gonna read the second book, but, as much as I love mystery, I am hoping for a bit more on the romance and steamy side.
My reviews are posted on DirtyBooksObsession
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January 8, 2018
Murder Notes
was unlike anything I’ve ever read from Lisa Renee Jones, and I’ve read almost all of her books. This compelling and captivating story was more thriller than romance. FBI profiler Lilah Love is on the hunt for a serial killer that she’s not quite convinced is a serial killer. Her quest to capture the perp ties into a traumatic event from her past and she finds herself surrounded by people she’s not sure she can trust. Which isn’t really saying anything as she doesn’t trust easily. This case has brought her back to her ex, who for all intents and purposes seems like a likely suspect - one she constantly discounts. They share a tragic secret and an incredibly hot love/hate relationship, at least on her part. Strangely enough, it seems he’s the one she trusts most, which is still very little. With dead bodies piling up and more questions than answers, how will Lilah solve this case when the secrets are never-ending?
I have a certain amount of admiration for an alpha heroine, especially when done right, and I believe that LRJ did a great job with Lilah. While she came off as downright rude and abrasive, most of the time I understood where she was coming from. Did I think she had the bad habit of getting in her own way? Absolutely. But she didn’t bemoan or gripe about things not going her way. Nope, this chick pushed through and bulldozed her own path. Someone’s not giving her the answers she’s looking for? Throw her badge around. Someone’s being a condescending, masogynistic ahole? Throw her badge around. Someone gave her a funny look? Yup, that’s right… throw her damn badge around.
Lilah cracked me up more times than not. I’m not sure if her behavior was supposed to be seen as hysterical, but that’s how it came off to me. The author found a way to put me in Lilah’s shoes. It didn’t hurt that this was a crime-fighting novel, which lines up with my obsession of all the great crime shows such as Law & Order, Criminal Minds, CSI, etc. The story, for all its gruesome qualities, had a lot of humor and humanity to spare.
Although Lilah came off as a badass who was more likely to shoot first and ask questions later, there were many instances that showcased her vulnerability and reminded me that she was only human. And that maybe some of her crass behavior was a result of pain. Or maybe I’m trying to rationalize the irrational. Who knows? What I do know is that I’m utterly in love with Kane, Lilah’s ex, and I’m craving his perspective desperately. While Lilah has definitely made me turn the pages, a huge part of my interest is the push and pull between her and Kane. I don’t know much about this man, but the little I do has intrigued the heck out of me and I need more.
Anyhoo, you know this story is amazing because it’s not even due for another couple of months and I had to read it, regardless of the huge cliffy I knew would be coming at the end. I’m not exactly thrilled to have to wait an eternity (that’s how it feels) for the next one, but I have no regrets. If you love an intense mystery thriller, than you’re really going to love this one!
Expected Release Date: March 27, 2018
Genre: Mystery/Suspense/Thriller
POV: Heroine - 1st person
Heat: 2 out of 5
Series/Standalone: Book #1 of the Lilah Love series
I have a certain amount of admiration for an alpha heroine, especially when done right, and I believe that LRJ did a great job with Lilah. While she came off as downright rude and abrasive, most of the time I understood where she was coming from. Did I think she had the bad habit of getting in her own way? Absolutely. But she didn’t bemoan or gripe about things not going her way. Nope, this chick pushed through and bulldozed her own path. Someone’s not giving her the answers she’s looking for? Throw her badge around. Someone’s being a condescending, masogynistic ahole? Throw her badge around. Someone gave her a funny look? Yup, that’s right… throw her damn badge around.
Lilah cracked me up more times than not. I’m not sure if her behavior was supposed to be seen as hysterical, but that’s how it came off to me. The author found a way to put me in Lilah’s shoes. It didn’t hurt that this was a crime-fighting novel, which lines up with my obsession of all the great crime shows such as Law & Order, Criminal Minds, CSI, etc. The story, for all its gruesome qualities, had a lot of humor and humanity to spare.
Although Lilah came off as a badass who was more likely to shoot first and ask questions later, there were many instances that showcased her vulnerability and reminded me that she was only human. And that maybe some of her crass behavior was a result of pain. Or maybe I’m trying to rationalize the irrational. Who knows? What I do know is that I’m utterly in love with Kane, Lilah’s ex, and I’m craving his perspective desperately. While Lilah has definitely made me turn the pages, a huge part of my interest is the push and pull between her and Kane. I don’t know much about this man, but the little I do has intrigued the heck out of me and I need more.
Anyhoo, you know this story is amazing because it’s not even due for another couple of months and I had to read it, regardless of the huge cliffy I knew would be coming at the end. I’m not exactly thrilled to have to wait an eternity (that’s how it feels) for the next one, but I have no regrets. If you love an intense mystery thriller, than you’re really going to love this one!
Expected Release Date: March 27, 2018
Genre: Mystery/Suspense/Thriller
POV: Heroine - 1st person
Heat: 2 out of 5
Series/Standalone: Book #1 of the Lilah Love series
March 28, 2018
Classic Lisa Renee Jones' writing, if you have read any of her previous books, you know what I m talking about. It's captivating and thrilling with gradation of tension as it build up towards unfolding of the plot...and then you have still long way to go...
i'm keeping this short and short LOL as i am way overdue with this...
***ARC provided by the author via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review***
July 31, 2018
Buddy read with Alex.
Thank you Alex for reading this book with me. 😘😘
I don’t even want to write a review for this book. So I’ll just copy and paste my buddy’s review.
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Thank you Alex for reading this book with me. 😘😘
I don’t even want to write a review for this book. So I’ll just copy and paste my buddy’s review.
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
July 31, 2021
CURRENTLY FREE (1/2021) Amazon -> https://amzn.to/39UUvwn
➵ Facts: Murder Notes is book #1 of Lilah Love series by NY Times, and USA Today best-selling author Lisa Renee Jones. It is told from the heroine's point of view with a cliffhanger ending. Genres: Women Sleuths | Romantic Suspense. Tropes: Alpha hero | love triangle
A thrilling, heart pounding romantic suspense. Brimming with action, conspiracies that lead to eye popping plot twists and a forbidden romance, I couldn’t put this book down, especial since it reminded me somewhat of the series The Blacklist.
In Murder Notes, author Lisa Renee Jones, introduces Lilah Love, one of the FBI’s best profilers. While working on a murder case in LA where everyone thinks is serial killer while she believes it to be an assassin, Lilah stumbles on clues that lead her to believe the murder is tied to the reason she left her home town.
When she arrives back home to investigate another similar case, she’s not only faced with a new murder, but also her brother the police chief, her father the mayor and her old flame, Kane Mendez, the area’s crime lord’ son. Kane not only knows her heart, he also shares the secret behind her departure two years back. With the body count rising, Lilah isn’t sure who she can trust, but one thing is for sure, she isn’t afraid.
I really enjoyed getting to know Lilah, she is one tough cookie who doesn’t care what other people think about her directness. She’s a blunt force to be reckoned with and I can’t wait to keep reading about her and the mysteries she’s uncovering.
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via NetGalley. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. *
Amazon -> https://amzn.to/39UUvwn
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June 25, 2018
4 stars.
Definitely a page turner. A dark mystery/thriller/romance that is fed to you through FBI profiler Lilah Love's eyes. The way this story is written, feels like the author is dangling a carrot for her readers that remains perpetually out of reach (a little maddening at times but it very much captured my interest) . Tell me more!!!!
This book (she says sarcastically) doesn't even have the courtesy to end with a cliffhanger it just tails off mid-scene so fortunately for me I get to read book 2 "Murder Girl" right away (ARC) as usually that delay leaves me exasperated beyond words. I really hate to wait for satisfaction.
Will review this further after I finish the second book in this duet. Do love the writing here. A winner so far.
***Just finished Book #2 "Murder Girl" and what a rollercoaster ride. Definitely recommend. See link to review***
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
Definitely a page turner. A dark mystery/thriller/romance that is fed to you through FBI profiler Lilah Love's eyes. The way this story is written, feels like the author is dangling a carrot for her readers that remains perpetually out of reach (a little maddening at times but it very much captured my interest) . Tell me more!!!!
This book (she says sarcastically) doesn't even have the courtesy to end with a cliffhanger it just tails off mid-scene so fortunately for me I get to read book 2 "Murder Girl" right away (ARC) as usually that delay leaves me exasperated beyond words. I really hate to wait for satisfaction.
Will review this further after I finish the second book in this duet. Do love the writing here. A winner so far.
***Just finished Book #2 "Murder Girl" and what a rollercoaster ride. Definitely recommend. See link to review***
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
June 25, 2018
I finished this book yesterday as a part of Instagram's mini-readathon - #8intwo. I couldn't put it down! The main character is bad-ass, and the plot was very fast-paced. I do take issue with the fact that although this is the first in the series, not much is resolved. There are major cliffhangers. While this is a minor spoiler, I feel I owe it to the readers to warn you. I hope the second book comes out soon!
Full review coming soonish...
3.5 stars, rounded up because of the bad-assery.
Thanks to NetGalley and Montlake Romance for a copy of this e-galley!
Full review coming soonish...
3.5 stars, rounded up because of the bad-assery.
Thanks to NetGalley and Montlake Romance for a copy of this e-galley!
January 2, 2018
Awesome read! I am going to be hooked on this series for sure!
* Word of warning - definite traumatic triggers in this book
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I have long been a fan of Lisa Renee Jones and it is always exciting for me to pick up a new book by her. She is an amazing writer that has the ability to just reach into your soul and blow you away with her unique style and complex character development.
Her stories are an amazing testimony to her obvious deep love for what she does. I think I even lose a little bit of myself every time I read one of her books because I get so involved and attached.
I cut my teeth on reading grown up, adult stories (not those kind - lol) with authors like Joseph Wambaugh, Robert Ludlum, and other similar authors that dealt with stories in crime, police drama, black ops, espionage and more. So it is no wonder that one of my favorites genres to read today is the romantic suspense category.
With my love of romance and then the added suspense and crime aspect, the blend for me is perfect. Intriguing, never boring, and all encompassing! It is no wonder I gravitate to authors like Kim Harrison, Laura Griffin, Cindy Gerard, and not to be missed, Lisa Renee Jones, and so many others.
Jones has usually had the romance factor first in her stories with the suspense running along side or even as a secondary factor, until this book. This book focuses mainly on the suspense and the mystery of the crime.
With the main character an FBI profiler with many secrets of her own, this story takes us back to her hometown and back into the secrets she has been trying to hide and bury for years. Bring in a past love, Kane, and this story just heated up!
From murder notes and plenty of suspense to underlying passion and anticipation, this story is a fabulous introduction to this new series. I love Lilah Love! She is gorgeous, strong, snarky, smart, humorous, perceptive, fearless, and ingenious; with a quick wit and tongue to match.
Jones is known for creating the perfect man and Kane is just that! An intriguing hunk of man that is mysterious, and so flipping hot, you can feel the testosterone coming off the pages. Plus, he loves Lilah ... Her - she won't admit it because of their past history.
I could not get enough of this book. The author wrote in a roundabout manner that builds suspense and anticipation for the truth. Sometimes frustrating, but oh so worth it all! The question is, can we handle the truth?
As Murder Notes is part of a new series, I am going to have to wait months for part two as this ended in a cliffhanger. But oh, what a fabulous part two it will be!
* Copy received for review purposes
* Word of warning - definite traumatic triggers in this book
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I have long been a fan of Lisa Renee Jones and it is always exciting for me to pick up a new book by her. She is an amazing writer that has the ability to just reach into your soul and blow you away with her unique style and complex character development.
Her stories are an amazing testimony to her obvious deep love for what she does. I think I even lose a little bit of myself every time I read one of her books because I get so involved and attached.
I cut my teeth on reading grown up, adult stories (not those kind - lol) with authors like Joseph Wambaugh, Robert Ludlum, and other similar authors that dealt with stories in crime, police drama, black ops, espionage and more. So it is no wonder that one of my favorites genres to read today is the romantic suspense category.
With my love of romance and then the added suspense and crime aspect, the blend for me is perfect. Intriguing, never boring, and all encompassing! It is no wonder I gravitate to authors like Kim Harrison, Laura Griffin, Cindy Gerard, and not to be missed, Lisa Renee Jones, and so many others.
Jones has usually had the romance factor first in her stories with the suspense running along side or even as a secondary factor, until this book. This book focuses mainly on the suspense and the mystery of the crime.
With the main character an FBI profiler with many secrets of her own, this story takes us back to her hometown and back into the secrets she has been trying to hide and bury for years. Bring in a past love, Kane, and this story just heated up!
From murder notes and plenty of suspense to underlying passion and anticipation, this story is a fabulous introduction to this new series. I love Lilah Love! She is gorgeous, strong, snarky, smart, humorous, perceptive, fearless, and ingenious; with a quick wit and tongue to match.
Jones is known for creating the perfect man and Kane is just that! An intriguing hunk of man that is mysterious, and so flipping hot, you can feel the testosterone coming off the pages. Plus, he loves Lilah ... Her - she won't admit it because of their past history.
I could not get enough of this book. The author wrote in a roundabout manner that builds suspense and anticipation for the truth. Sometimes frustrating, but oh so worth it all! The question is, can we handle the truth?
As Murder Notes is part of a new series, I am going to have to wait months for part two as this ended in a cliffhanger. But oh, what a fabulous part two it will be!
* Copy received for review purposes
August 23, 2023
YESSS! Love this. I'm going straight into Part 2!
If you have Audible Escape, I highly recommend this series. It has been so entertaining to listen to. Lilah Love is an FBI profiler BADASS. She's a call-it-like-it-is girl. She's fierce. She's respected. But she's also being taunted by a serial killing assassin! *DUM DUM DUMMMM*
And aside from this epic crime-fighting story, there is also the steamy relationship between Kane and Lilah. An almost Shakespearian love tale of feuding sides and lots of bloodshed.
The only caveat to this book is it "ends" unresolved. You will NEED to listen to book 2 (and probably 3 and 4 - I just haven't gotten to those yet) for an actual conclusion!
If you have Audible Escape, I highly recommend this series. It has been so entertaining to listen to. Lilah Love is an FBI profiler BADASS. She's a call-it-like-it-is girl. She's fierce. She's respected. But she's also being taunted by a serial killing assassin! *DUM DUM DUMMMM*
And aside from this epic crime-fighting story, there is also the steamy relationship between Kane and Lilah. An almost Shakespearian love tale of feuding sides and lots of bloodshed.
The only caveat to this book is it "ends" unresolved. You will NEED to listen to book 2 (and probably 3 and 4 - I just haven't gotten to those yet) for an actual conclusion!
March 8, 2018
I find myself joining all the other reviewers in saying, "I need more and I need it now!" The queen of leaving us hanging has done it again!
Detective Lilah Love is used the jokes about her name, she's used to the horrors of brutal crime scenes, and she's used to being alone. A pile of bodies all murdered in the same way call her back home to the Hamptons, a place she isn't used to being around people she isn't used to seeing. Determined to track down the killer she begins gathering data, only to find herself the target of eerie notes that relate to something she thought was in the past. The notes, the bodies, and those fighting to keep everything covered up reveal to her that maybe the tie in between all the murders is herself.
"He is the devil, but then, I am no angel. He made sure of that."
Oh my, Lisa Renee Jones has done it again, but this time from the perspective of a beautiful, complicated woman who doesn't have the time for romancing. It's different for LRJ and I really enjoyed Lilah Love and her crude mouth. She's a different sort of female character, very complex and strong in many ways, but also incredibly broken and weighed down by life. She covers things up with wit and sarcasm and she believes she protects others by keeping everything to herself. Her past is a difficult one and though it is fitting of the story, it's painful to watch a piece of her past haunt her in a very present and active way. Then there's the men, oh the men. The list goes on and on, from family members to exes to coworkers, Lilah is surrounded by a sea of men who don't really want her to uncover the truth, who don't really want her to be as strong as she is. They treat her delicately, like she's breakable and simply unable to handle the realities. The men ignore her role, her strength, and are simple unaware of the past that made her into the woman she is. She remains fierce, strong willed, and increasingly agitated by the assumptions of those around her.
"There's always a murder where you are, Lilah."
Which brings me to the meat of the story, the murders of four individuals that, for some reason, the men don't want her to work. Lilah Love is neck deep in the mystery, but Murder Notes is a thriller not a mystery and that is very apparent as it is revealed to readers that somehow Lilah is tied into all of this. In very lengthy, maybe too lengthy, detail LRJ tells us of Lilah's pasts, of the current crime scenes, of the lives of every individual possibly involved, and the history that surrounds the current murders. There's a stalker, an assassinator, a long simmering romance, political aspirations, friends, enemies, and two cartels that just can't seem to get along when left to their own devices. It's fairly complicated and quite a lot to remember, which was tedious at first, but in time I was attached to this story and just as addicted to solving the crime as Lilah. Unfortunately, Murder Notes is book one in a series and we are left with a cliffhanger that promises answers, and likely more questions, are to come.
"It bleeds because you bleed."
I'm not sure how long I can wait for answers in the Lilah Love series, the danger too great to ignore and the passionate lust between Lilah and another just promises there is more smut to come. There's secrets to uncover, lies to disprove, and a deadly killer and a stalker who must be found out. Murder Notes is an engaging, character-driven thriller from the incredible Lisa Renee Jones. It's a series you won't be able to walk away from and one you won't be able to guess the ending of.
ARC provided.
Detective Lilah Love is used the jokes about her name, she's used to the horrors of brutal crime scenes, and she's used to being alone. A pile of bodies all murdered in the same way call her back home to the Hamptons, a place she isn't used to being around people she isn't used to seeing. Determined to track down the killer she begins gathering data, only to find herself the target of eerie notes that relate to something she thought was in the past. The notes, the bodies, and those fighting to keep everything covered up reveal to her that maybe the tie in between all the murders is herself.
"He is the devil, but then, I am no angel. He made sure of that."
Oh my, Lisa Renee Jones has done it again, but this time from the perspective of a beautiful, complicated woman who doesn't have the time for romancing. It's different for LRJ and I really enjoyed Lilah Love and her crude mouth. She's a different sort of female character, very complex and strong in many ways, but also incredibly broken and weighed down by life. She covers things up with wit and sarcasm and she believes she protects others by keeping everything to herself. Her past is a difficult one and though it is fitting of the story, it's painful to watch a piece of her past haunt her in a very present and active way. Then there's the men, oh the men. The list goes on and on, from family members to exes to coworkers, Lilah is surrounded by a sea of men who don't really want her to uncover the truth, who don't really want her to be as strong as she is. They treat her delicately, like she's breakable and simply unable to handle the realities. The men ignore her role, her strength, and are simple unaware of the past that made her into the woman she is. She remains fierce, strong willed, and increasingly agitated by the assumptions of those around her.
"There's always a murder where you are, Lilah."
Which brings me to the meat of the story, the murders of four individuals that, for some reason, the men don't want her to work. Lilah Love is neck deep in the mystery, but Murder Notes is a thriller not a mystery and that is very apparent as it is revealed to readers that somehow Lilah is tied into all of this. In very lengthy, maybe too lengthy, detail LRJ tells us of Lilah's pasts, of the current crime scenes, of the lives of every individual possibly involved, and the history that surrounds the current murders. There's a stalker, an assassinator, a long simmering romance, political aspirations, friends, enemies, and two cartels that just can't seem to get along when left to their own devices. It's fairly complicated and quite a lot to remember, which was tedious at first, but in time I was attached to this story and just as addicted to solving the crime as Lilah. Unfortunately, Murder Notes is book one in a series and we are left with a cliffhanger that promises answers, and likely more questions, are to come.
"It bleeds because you bleed."
I'm not sure how long I can wait for answers in the Lilah Love series, the danger too great to ignore and the passionate lust between Lilah and another just promises there is more smut to come. There's secrets to uncover, lies to disprove, and a deadly killer and a stalker who must be found out. Murder Notes is an engaging, character-driven thriller from the incredible Lisa Renee Jones. It's a series you won't be able to walk away from and one you won't be able to guess the ending of.
ARC provided.
February 1, 2021
3 1/2 you have my attention stars (rounded up)
Murder Notes is the first book in a series, and it ends in a cliffhanger (that feels like it's right in the middle of the story), so you should definitely know that going in bc there is no resolution to anything at the end of this ride.
Lilah Love is:
- daughter of a very famous movie star (who died about 10 years earlier in an accident) and a police chief from a small town turned mayor and now wannabe governor of the state of NY
- a former NYPD detective that became an FBI agent and moved relatively suddenly from NY to LA a couple of years ago
- ex-girlfriend of the heir to a giant drug cartel that insists he is not involved in and is instead a businessman
- current-ish girlfriend of a surfer-looking dude that happens to be a fellow FBI agent in Los Angeles (though she is trying to break up with him bc she knows he's not for her)
Lilah Love is not:
- taking any sh!t from anyone, sorry not sorry
- someone's "woman"
- going to be bullied into going along with the plan when she doesn't believe in the cause or buy into your BS
- a victim - yes, she was attacked, but she more than got the better of the man who dared try to one up her, and she does not feel badly... not even a little... which kind of makes her worry a little (okay, a lot)
- not leaving until she solves these crimes
- not staying either
But now Lilah Love has a problem: someone has laid down clues in the form of assassin-like murders that have led her back to the literal scene of the crime: her former home in The Hamptons where her brother is now the chief and her father the mayor. And her former bestie the ADA. And plenty of people that would like to see her fall flat on her face. So not only does she need to figure out why people are dying and why someone obviously wants her attention, but she has to do so while navigating the landmines that riddle her past. And the man she left behind that has never truly let her go.
What I liked:
--- Lilah started off a little too rough but she eventually won me over; Kane is just straight up sinfully delicious
--- The crimes and mystery definitely grabbed my attention and made me want to read more
What I didn't like as much:
--- At some times, it was a lot to keep up with (who is who/from LA or NY/past or present or both), so it took me a little while to get some clarity
--- Not very much in the way of steamy goodness, but what was there was yummy
Overall, my interest in the story, the mystery, and the characters is definitely high enough that I will continue on with the series to see what happens next!
Please note that I received an advance copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
Plot --- 3.5/5
Main Characters --- 4/5
Supporting Cast --- 3.5/5
Steam Level* --- 2.5/5
Violence --- not overly graphic but crime scenes and attack flashbacks
Language --- Lilah's fave word is the f-bomb
POV --- 1st (Lilah's)
*Note that steam level is not a rating so much as a how hot was it: 0/5 - clean; 1/5 - mild (nothing descriptive); 2/5 - 3rd base action/1 home run; 3/5 - now we're getting somewhere (a couple of full-on steamy scenes); 4/5 - yes please! (erotica territory); 5/5 - they did EVERYTHING in this one, y'all
Murder Notes is the first book in a series, and it ends in a cliffhanger (that feels like it's right in the middle of the story), so you should definitely know that going in bc there is no resolution to anything at the end of this ride.
Lilah Love is:
- daughter of a very famous movie star (who died about 10 years earlier in an accident) and a police chief from a small town turned mayor and now wannabe governor of the state of NY
- a former NYPD detective that became an FBI agent and moved relatively suddenly from NY to LA a couple of years ago
- ex-girlfriend of the heir to a giant drug cartel that insists he is not involved in and is instead a businessman
- current-ish girlfriend of a surfer-looking dude that happens to be a fellow FBI agent in Los Angeles (though she is trying to break up with him bc she knows he's not for her)
Lilah Love is not:
- taking any sh!t from anyone, sorry not sorry
- someone's "woman"
- going to be bullied into going along with the plan when she doesn't believe in the cause or buy into your BS
- a victim - yes, she was attacked, but she more than got the better of the man who dared try to one up her, and she does not feel badly... not even a little... which kind of makes her worry a little (okay, a lot)
- not leaving until she solves these crimes
- not staying either
But now Lilah Love has a problem: someone has laid down clues in the form of assassin-like murders that have led her back to the literal scene of the crime: her former home in The Hamptons where her brother is now the chief and her father the mayor. And her former bestie the ADA. And plenty of people that would like to see her fall flat on her face. So not only does she need to figure out why people are dying and why someone obviously wants her attention, but she has to do so while navigating the landmines that riddle her past. And the man she left behind that has never truly let her go.
What I liked:
--- Lilah started off a little too rough but she eventually won me over; Kane is just straight up sinfully delicious
--- The crimes and mystery definitely grabbed my attention and made me want to read more
What I didn't like as much:
--- At some times, it was a lot to keep up with (who is who/from LA or NY/past or present or both), so it took me a little while to get some clarity
--- Not very much in the way of steamy goodness, but what was there was yummy
Overall, my interest in the story, the mystery, and the characters is definitely high enough that I will continue on with the series to see what happens next!
Please note that I received an advance copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
Plot --- 3.5/5
Main Characters --- 4/5
Supporting Cast --- 3.5/5
Steam Level* --- 2.5/5
Violence --- not overly graphic but crime scenes and attack flashbacks
Language --- Lilah's fave word is the f-bomb
POV --- 1st (Lilah's)
*Note that steam level is not a rating so much as a how hot was it: 0/5 - clean; 1/5 - mild (nothing descriptive); 2/5 - 3rd base action/1 home run; 3/5 - now we're getting somewhere (a couple of full-on steamy scenes); 4/5 - yes please! (erotica territory); 5/5 - they did EVERYTHING in this one, y'all
January 4, 2018
I am a huge fan of murder mysteries and detective stories, but for some reason I never read them. When I had the chance to read Murder Notes, it sounded like it was going to be an intriguing, action-packed thriller and I couldn't wait to read it.
Lilah Love is trained to get into the minds of killers and track them down. That's why she's so good at being an FBI agent. But when a series of murders link back to her past and her hometown, Lilah knows she has to go back home and investigate. She is certain the person they're looking for is an assassin, not a serial killer, but she has to return to the Hamptons and dig into the people of her past to know for sure. Lilah is forced to confront the secret she holds with Kane Mendez, the son of a crime lord, while trying to figure out who she can trust now and who could be the very person she is looking for.
How is this book labeled a thriller? Because not a single page in this book was thrilling. When the book first started and Lilah was at the crime scene examining the newest dead body, I was so ready for this story. I couldn't wait for Lilah to investigate and uncover the killer. But when she arrived at the Hamptons, NOTHING HAPPENED. So much of this book was literally Lilah sitting in her office or sitting a a diner thinking. Her big, dark secret from the past was beat over our heads and I was so annoyed when we were never told what really happened or why until very late in the book. I felt like it was being used as a crutch to keep our interest and it just got annoying.
Also, when Lilah arrived in the Hamptons, there were so many characters thrown at us that Lilah was thinking about and they were so hard to keep straight. I feel like we really only got a surface level impression of them, too, because we really only got to know people based on what Lilah thought about them and how she categorized them in her investigation. And I don't know if I missed something, but I am still so clueless about the investigation and who could have even done it or anyone's connection to it. I felt no intrigue towards this story and I honestly didn't even care about who was even behind the murders by the end.
If you can't tell, this one was a huge miss for me. I had such high expectations going in and I found a story that was boring and lacked any action. While I haven't read that many thrillers, this one just didn't seem thrilling and lost my interest in the end.
Lilah Love is trained to get into the minds of killers and track them down. That's why she's so good at being an FBI agent. But when a series of murders link back to her past and her hometown, Lilah knows she has to go back home and investigate. She is certain the person they're looking for is an assassin, not a serial killer, but she has to return to the Hamptons and dig into the people of her past to know for sure. Lilah is forced to confront the secret she holds with Kane Mendez, the son of a crime lord, while trying to figure out who she can trust now and who could be the very person she is looking for.
How is this book labeled a thriller? Because not a single page in this book was thrilling. When the book first started and Lilah was at the crime scene examining the newest dead body, I was so ready for this story. I couldn't wait for Lilah to investigate and uncover the killer. But when she arrived at the Hamptons, NOTHING HAPPENED. So much of this book was literally Lilah sitting in her office or sitting a a diner thinking. Her big, dark secret from the past was beat over our heads and I was so annoyed when we were never told what really happened or why until very late in the book. I felt like it was being used as a crutch to keep our interest and it just got annoying.
Also, when Lilah arrived in the Hamptons, there were so many characters thrown at us that Lilah was thinking about and they were so hard to keep straight. I feel like we really only got a surface level impression of them, too, because we really only got to know people based on what Lilah thought about them and how she categorized them in her investigation. And I don't know if I missed something, but I am still so clueless about the investigation and who could have even done it or anyone's connection to it. I felt no intrigue towards this story and I honestly didn't even care about who was even behind the murders by the end.
If you can't tell, this one was a huge miss for me. I had such high expectations going in and I found a story that was boring and lacked any action. While I haven't read that many thrillers, this one just didn't seem thrilling and lost my interest in the end.
February 12, 2018
I have been stuck in such a funk lately, I think it's only necessary to blame those winter blues. It's cold and gross outside and I want to do nothing but sleep and eat soup. Plus, I've started a new job so that's taking up more time that usual, and I just haven't felt like reading. At all. Its been about six weeks and I've finished a grand total of one book. That makes my little heart sad. One night, I just needed something completely different to try, because it seemed like every book I picked up lately was made from the same outline and I was bored out of my mind. Remembering I had a copy of Murder Notes, I hoped, and prayed, and chanted that this would work for me.
Spoiler alert, it did.
This book is like watching an episode of Criminal Minds. It's twisted, it's fast paced, it's detailed. Every time you think you might be able to figure something out, the author throws in another twist in the plot. Even something as simple as the ending of a chapter, it's almost like they end with mini cliffhangers. It drives you to continue reading because you can't possibly stop there!
Lilah Love is hands down the most kick ass main character I've ever read. With a take no prisoners type attitude, Agent Love is calling the shots and taking names, all while piecing together a puzzle the likes of which no one has ever seen. She doesn't need a man to save the day for her. It's specific and cryptic.
Being in her mind and watching her thought processes are amazing in this type of novel. The reader gets to experience all of this unfold as it happens, complete with her musings and inner ramblings. I found this writing style to work extremely well because I could follow just how she would go from point A to point B. How she came up with her theories, connected suspects, and answer questions that no one else could even dream of. Not only does this show you how she gets to these conclusions, but it really helped to get my mind stuck in this story. I was right along side Agent Love for each of these twists and turns, just trying to hold on for the ride. I couldn't read the pages fast enough.
First and foremost, this is a suspense and mystery book. It's not a romance. But I loved how it still has romantic elements. It's just enough to give the reader a taste and add to the story, but not enough to take away from the plot in any way. I thought the relationship between Lilah and Kane is quite dynamic and I enjoyed that immensely. Whenever they were together, the reader sees the intensity from those characters, though it's not as if the story revolves around them or their relationship from the past.
Probably my favourite thing about mystery or suspense books is the fact that every time I think we're getting close to figuring out some sort of puzzle piece, the story changes. New information comes to light, a character disappears, a strange phone call, etc. But *something* happens to change the course of the story. I love this feeling of being kept on my toes and not knowing what would happen next, and the author does a stupendous job of that.
Now who this being said, I'm also a fan of cliffhangers. I know not many people are, but I love them. In this case, I also happened to read the first preview chapter of the next book, and I probably shouldn't have (LOL). But now when everything is just heating up, and it feels like we're on the edge of starting to figure everything out, it ends. Done. Everything goes blank. I looked up from my kindle, looked around, and realized that I have to wait FOUR MORE MONTHS to read the next one. That's just cruel. *cries a little*
All in all, Lisa Renee Jones executes a winner with this cold blooded mystery. A thrilling journey that ensnares readers from the first page and leaves them guessing way beyond the last. She seduces with the perfect concoction of secrets that won't stay buried, questionable murders, dirty cops and throws in a dash of lush for good measure. I need the next book now, please and thank you.
*An ARC was received in exchange for an honest review.
Spoiler alert, it did.
This book is like watching an episode of Criminal Minds. It's twisted, it's fast paced, it's detailed. Every time you think you might be able to figure something out, the author throws in another twist in the plot. Even something as simple as the ending of a chapter, it's almost like they end with mini cliffhangers. It drives you to continue reading because you can't possibly stop there!
Lilah Love is hands down the most kick ass main character I've ever read. With a take no prisoners type attitude, Agent Love is calling the shots and taking names, all while piecing together a puzzle the likes of which no one has ever seen. She doesn't need a man to save the day for her. It's specific and cryptic.
Being in her mind and watching her thought processes are amazing in this type of novel. The reader gets to experience all of this unfold as it happens, complete with her musings and inner ramblings. I found this writing style to work extremely well because I could follow just how she would go from point A to point B. How she came up with her theories, connected suspects, and answer questions that no one else could even dream of. Not only does this show you how she gets to these conclusions, but it really helped to get my mind stuck in this story. I was right along side Agent Love for each of these twists and turns, just trying to hold on for the ride. I couldn't read the pages fast enough.
First and foremost, this is a suspense and mystery book. It's not a romance. But I loved how it still has romantic elements. It's just enough to give the reader a taste and add to the story, but not enough to take away from the plot in any way. I thought the relationship between Lilah and Kane is quite dynamic and I enjoyed that immensely. Whenever they were together, the reader sees the intensity from those characters, though it's not as if the story revolves around them or their relationship from the past.
Probably my favourite thing about mystery or suspense books is the fact that every time I think we're getting close to figuring out some sort of puzzle piece, the story changes. New information comes to light, a character disappears, a strange phone call, etc. But *something* happens to change the course of the story. I love this feeling of being kept on my toes and not knowing what would happen next, and the author does a stupendous job of that.
Now who this being said, I'm also a fan of cliffhangers. I know not many people are, but I love them. In this case, I also happened to read the first preview chapter of the next book, and I probably shouldn't have (LOL). But now when everything is just heating up, and it feels like we're on the edge of starting to figure everything out, it ends. Done. Everything goes blank. I looked up from my kindle, looked around, and realized that I have to wait FOUR MORE MONTHS to read the next one. That's just cruel. *cries a little*
All in all, Lisa Renee Jones executes a winner with this cold blooded mystery. A thrilling journey that ensnares readers from the first page and leaves them guessing way beyond the last. She seduces with the perfect concoction of secrets that won't stay buried, questionable murders, dirty cops and throws in a dash of lush for good measure. I need the next book now, please and thank you.
*An ARC was received in exchange for an honest review.
March 29, 2018
Intriguing.
Edgy.
Utterly addictive.
A total page turner that will have you hooked till the very end.
Murder Notes is a gripping tale that revolves around secrets, murder, and the dangers of an old flame. There's no much romance in it, and even though I'm a romance lover, I didn't miss it at all. Lisa Renee Jones seduced me with secrets and blood and made me forget all about romance with all the twist and turns she hit me with.
This story gave me whiplash and had me needing a drink. After every chapter, I couldn't stop wondering who was guilty and who was not. This was the kind of book that has me staying up all hours of the night and sacrificing sleep just to punch me in the face with a cliffhanger. But you know what, I fucking loved it.
I absolutely enjoyed this story and SERIOUSLY can't wait to read Murder Girl. So if you're looking for a thriller with romantic undertones, this is your book!
Murder and secrets, twists and turns, all packed in an unputdownable read.
You can find me here: | INSTAGRAM
March 27, 2018
Murder Notes by Lisa Renee Jones is the First book in the Series called "Lilah Love".
Lilah is a successful FBI Profiler and works hard in the job she loves. But some new murders have clues that are leading her back to her home town and a secret that she has been keeping. The more she gets into who is the murder the more she finds that the murder is leading into her. Back in her home town not only leads her back to her family but to a ex boyfriend named Kane Mendez, whose father was a part of the local crime lord/mob association.
What can you say but WOW! This book had you on the edge of your seat! You just can't put it down and wanting to find out what is going to happen next! So very exciting! This does end with an ending that sets up the next book in this series. Can't wait!
Lilah is a successful FBI Profiler and works hard in the job she loves. But some new murders have clues that are leading her back to her home town and a secret that she has been keeping. The more she gets into who is the murder the more she finds that the murder is leading into her. Back in her home town not only leads her back to her family but to a ex boyfriend named Kane Mendez, whose father was a part of the local crime lord/mob association.
What can you say but WOW! This book had you on the edge of your seat! You just can't put it down and wanting to find out what is going to happen next! So very exciting! This does end with an ending that sets up the next book in this series. Can't wait!
February 17, 2018
FBI profiler Lilah Love is called to a scene at Santa Monica Pier where a dead body has been found. The scene is similar to others around the country and a tattoo on the dead mans body is the same as that on Lilah attacker many years ago in The Hamptons where she grew up. On this information Lilah is sent home to investigate when another body turns up. As she works the case those closest to her come under the microscope.. could it be that her family are involved?
I enjoyed this book but I didn't love it. Thanks to Montlake Romance and NetGalley for a copy of this book to read in exchange for my honest opinions
I enjoyed this book but I didn't love it. Thanks to Montlake Romance and NetGalley for a copy of this book to read in exchange for my honest opinions
March 28, 2018
“I don’t bite unless you tell me to bite, beautiful. You know that.”
As I turned the final page of this book, I was reminded of the time I first discovered Lisa Renee Jones’ work. The Inside Out Series was my introduction to Lisa’s ridiculous talent and MURDER NOTES, book #1 in her new Lilah Love Series, gave me those same giddy vibes. This was an absolute THRILL to read! It kept me on my toes, and had my mind turning with every swipe of the page. I knew the minute I began this journey, there was no going back. This author has a way of sucking you in, holding you hostage, and feeding your suspense addiction with every new chapter.
I adored Lilah’s character! She is a confident and feisty FBI profiler that pulls no punches. She speaks her mind and she knows that she is good at what she does. When a case brings her back home, she suddenly has so much MORE pulling at her than the craving to solve multiple murders. We are introduced to a piece of her past that she has fought hard to forget, but this string of murders is pushing her demons out to play. One of those demons is Kane Mendez, son of a crime lord who has taken over his father’s business and past lover to our sassy heroine.
I love this author’s complex, intricate, and vivid writing style. She makes it easy for the reader to immerse themselves in the story, putting themselves right alongside Lilah, trying to solve these murders by her side. Having those elements make the reading experience that much more entertaining and memorable. This was one hell of a beginning to what I know is going to be another addicting series by Lisa Renee Jones. Bring on the next!
As I turned the final page of this book, I was reminded of the time I first discovered Lisa Renee Jones’ work. The Inside Out Series was my introduction to Lisa’s ridiculous talent and MURDER NOTES, book #1 in her new Lilah Love Series, gave me those same giddy vibes. This was an absolute THRILL to read! It kept me on my toes, and had my mind turning with every swipe of the page. I knew the minute I began this journey, there was no going back. This author has a way of sucking you in, holding you hostage, and feeding your suspense addiction with every new chapter.
I adored Lilah’s character! She is a confident and feisty FBI profiler that pulls no punches. She speaks her mind and she knows that she is good at what she does. When a case brings her back home, she suddenly has so much MORE pulling at her than the craving to solve multiple murders. We are introduced to a piece of her past that she has fought hard to forget, but this string of murders is pushing her demons out to play. One of those demons is Kane Mendez, son of a crime lord who has taken over his father’s business and past lover to our sassy heroine.
I love this author’s complex, intricate, and vivid writing style. She makes it easy for the reader to immerse themselves in the story, putting themselves right alongside Lilah, trying to solve these murders by her side. Having those elements make the reading experience that much more entertaining and memorable. This was one hell of a beginning to what I know is going to be another addicting series by Lisa Renee Jones. Bring on the next!
March 5, 2019
This mystery was a really good one. I loved the MC whose a female and one of the top 10 FBI profilers in the country. Her name isn't exactly a match to her job description. She is Lilah Love, 28 years old, and she has quite an interesting group of family and friends, lovers and ex-lovers, and colleagues. When she is investigating a murder (the 2nd in the same number of days) she gets sent to her old hometown of the Hamptons where brother Andrew is chief of police (and they do butt heads), her father is mayor, her ex-lover is the son of a crime lord, and there's even a billionaire in the mix.
First of all, I love Lilah because she is confident, assertive, snarky, and humorous. She lets no one tell her what she can/can't do. Two years prior to her story being told, she had an incident occur that changed her life forever. At the time of the tragedy, Kane was there to witness it and consequently they have a major secret that they both have kept in order not to lose their job/status in life. Being back at the Hamptons and seeing Kane, it becomes evident that there is a romantic, passionate interest between them but Lilah doesn't want to go there because in part of their shared secret. The romance is light weight and I liked that for this book.
There is a string of murders and so many suspects run through Lilah's head. No one is exempt, it seems, except perhaps one person. The murders are seemingly connected by a tattoo, and now she is being stalked by someone who keeps leaving her notes.
This book does end in a cliffhanger and one I don't remember seeing before because I don't know who committed the murders. Thankfully book 2 is out for which I am so glad because I NEED to know what happened! I'm starting book 2 tomorrow morning!
*Note: It's free on KU and if you subscribe to the audio romance package, it's free there as well!
First of all, I love Lilah because she is confident, assertive, snarky, and humorous. She lets no one tell her what she can/can't do. Two years prior to her story being told, she had an incident occur that changed her life forever. At the time of the tragedy, Kane was there to witness it and consequently they have a major secret that they both have kept in order not to lose their job/status in life. Being back at the Hamptons and seeing Kane, it becomes evident that there is a romantic, passionate interest between them but Lilah doesn't want to go there because in part of their shared secret. The romance is light weight and I liked that for this book.
There is a string of murders and so many suspects run through Lilah's head. No one is exempt, it seems, except perhaps one person. The murders are seemingly connected by a tattoo, and now she is being stalked by someone who keeps leaving her notes.
This book does end in a cliffhanger and one I don't remember seeing before because I don't know who committed the murders. Thankfully book 2 is out for which I am so glad because I NEED to know what happened! I'm starting book 2 tomorrow morning!
*Note: It's free on KU and if you subscribe to the audio romance package, it's free there as well!
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