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Jessie Novak #1
Dead Girl Walking
“911. What’s your emergency?”
“He came for her. She’s been shot,” says a desperate voice, as footsteps echo down an alley. “She’s dying.”
“Oh no, oh no, he’s coming back. Please, come quickly––” And then a click, and the drone of a dial tone.
The beautiful young woman on the stretcher could be on her honeymoon. Chestnut hair tumbles around a pretty face, rose petals tangled in the loose strands. But the bandage around her forehead tells a different tale, as Emergency Room Nurse Jessie Novak desperately battles to keep her alive. Jessie’s thoughts are racing—who shot this beautiful young woman and more importantly, why?
Ann Hart’s life hangs by a thread, and Jessie cannot bear to see this beautiful young woman die without justice being done. Being a nurse is like hunting for clues, and Jessie is sure she can find the person who hurt Ann. She also asks her friend Detective Sam Dallas for help digging into Ann’s past. But then Jessie receives a gift that sends shivers up her spine: a huge bouquet of blood-red roses, just like the ones in Ann’s hair…
As the first snowflakes start to fall, another body turns up. Jessie is sure that she’s in danger too—since the roses, someone has been watching her… Sam is reluctant to see the link but Jessie knows she must find the culprit before he strikes again. He is stalking her through the frozen streets and he doesn’t want his fun to stop. Can Jessie turn the tables on the killer, or is she just a dead girl walking?
A totally addictive mystery novel that will leave you gasping for breath and have your heart thumping! Fans of Lisa Regan, Gregg Olsen and Tess Gerritsen will be completely hooked.
“He came for her. She’s been shot,” says a desperate voice, as footsteps echo down an alley. “She’s dying.”
“Oh no, oh no, he’s coming back. Please, come quickly––” And then a click, and the drone of a dial tone.
The beautiful young woman on the stretcher could be on her honeymoon. Chestnut hair tumbles around a pretty face, rose petals tangled in the loose strands. But the bandage around her forehead tells a different tale, as Emergency Room Nurse Jessie Novak desperately battles to keep her alive. Jessie’s thoughts are racing—who shot this beautiful young woman and more importantly, why?
Ann Hart’s life hangs by a thread, and Jessie cannot bear to see this beautiful young woman die without justice being done. Being a nurse is like hunting for clues, and Jessie is sure she can find the person who hurt Ann. She also asks her friend Detective Sam Dallas for help digging into Ann’s past. But then Jessie receives a gift that sends shivers up her spine: a huge bouquet of blood-red roses, just like the ones in Ann’s hair…
As the first snowflakes start to fall, another body turns up. Jessie is sure that she’s in danger too—since the roses, someone has been watching her… Sam is reluctant to see the link but Jessie knows she must find the culprit before he strikes again. He is stalking her through the frozen streets and he doesn’t want his fun to stop. Can Jessie turn the tables on the killer, or is she just a dead girl walking?
A totally addictive mystery novel that will leave you gasping for breath and have your heart thumping! Fans of Lisa Regan, Gregg Olsen and Tess Gerritsen will be completely hooked.
307 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 24, 2020
164 people are currently reading
224 people want to read
About the author
Roberta Gately
13 books84 followersA nurse, humanitarian aid worker, and writer, Roberta Gately has served in third-world war zones ranging from Africa to Afghanistan. She has written extensively on the subject of refugees for the Journal of Emergency Nursing, as well as a series of articles for the BBC World News Online. She speaks regularly on the plight of the world’s refugees and displaced.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
December 11, 2020
This was a unique twist on a police procedural, as the main character was a nurse and not in law enforcement. It was a bit unrealistic, though, as she had access to info that the average civilian wouldn’t. The story, first of a new series, centers on ER nurse, Jessie, who questions the story of a young couple who comes into the ER, seemingly shot by a stranger. The police think the story is viable but Jessie is convinced that the husband had something to do with it.
While the book moved at a fast pace, and Jessie was fun to read about at times, I had some major issues with this story. The first one is that there is no real mystery in my opinion- it felt glaringly clear to me the entire time what was happening and my hunches were proven true. Secondly, it bothered me greatly that Jessie was not only overly involved in police and coroner work that was not her job, but that she was able to solve issues that the experts in those fields could not solve, yet while making some really stupid personal decisions. Lastly, without giving anything away, Jessie’s attitude at the end of the book confused me- maybe the author is setting up the next book but I didn’t really get why she acted like she did.
Overall, the pace of the book was fast but I wasn’t blown away by this book due to the issues mentioned above. Not sure I’ll read the next book. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
While the book moved at a fast pace, and Jessie was fun to read about at times, I had some major issues with this story. The first one is that there is no real mystery in my opinion- it felt glaringly clear to me the entire time what was happening and my hunches were proven true. Secondly, it bothered me greatly that Jessie was not only overly involved in police and coroner work that was not her job, but that she was able to solve issues that the experts in those fields could not solve, yet while making some really stupid personal decisions. Lastly, without giving anything away, Jessie’s attitude at the end of the book confused me- maybe the author is setting up the next book but I didn’t really get why she acted like she did.
Overall, the pace of the book was fast but I wasn’t blown away by this book due to the issues mentioned above. Not sure I’ll read the next book. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 22, 2020
Dead Girl Walking is the first instalment in the Emergency Room Triage Nurse Jessie Novak series, set in Boston, Massachusetts. Married couple thirty-two-year-old Rob and twenty-eight-year-old Ann Hart had, according to Rob, been out celebrating that night when a man had approached them, pointed his gun and robbed them before shooting mayor's aide and Harvard alumni Rob in the flank and Ann in the head in an alley next to the theatre on Warrenton Street, but when the dispatcher asks him to check whether she's breathing there's no answer and the line goes dead. Meanwhile, it's the end of another long and arduous shift for Jessie Novak when just as she was getting ready to clock off and wind down over at Foley's bar, the paramedics, who attended the shooting, radio to inform Boston City Hospital that they are en-route. Jessie quickly assembles the trauma team and on-duty surgeon Neil Doherty. The next time she opens the door to leave one of the trauma rooms where Ann is being treated, she is met with a sea of police, reporters and random people blocking the corridor. Detective Sam Dallas is one of those and is in charge of the investigation.
Jessie goes to check on Rob Hart and finds there is something strange about the way he is acting. But, as Jessie knows all too well, people have different reactions to trauma, so whether this is suspicious or not remains to be seen. This is a pacy, compelling and original read and while it took a little longer than I would've liked to get into it I was soon absorbed in the storyline. Being an ER Nurse our protagonist is a little different to the norm and is in quite an unusual role. I would say that this is most aptly described as a cross between a police procedural and a crime thriller with an amateur sleuth at its centre, whose job actually positions her well to see if any of those admitted with injuries could be of a suspicious nature. Her spider senses were certainly tingling when she met the Harts. She astute, authoritative when necessary and seems to have an insatiable appetite for police employees. This is a sinister thriller where no one can be trusted and the dangerous situation is about to cross from Jessie’s working life into her personal world. Perhaps it would be prudent to stop digging but that just isn't her style...
Jessie goes to check on Rob Hart and finds there is something strange about the way he is acting. But, as Jessie knows all too well, people have different reactions to trauma, so whether this is suspicious or not remains to be seen. This is a pacy, compelling and original read and while it took a little longer than I would've liked to get into it I was soon absorbed in the storyline. Being an ER Nurse our protagonist is a little different to the norm and is in quite an unusual role. I would say that this is most aptly described as a cross between a police procedural and a crime thriller with an amateur sleuth at its centre, whose job actually positions her well to see if any of those admitted with injuries could be of a suspicious nature. Her spider senses were certainly tingling when she met the Harts. She astute, authoritative when necessary and seems to have an insatiable appetite for police employees. This is a sinister thriller where no one can be trusted and the dangerous situation is about to cross from Jessie’s working life into her personal world. Perhaps it would be prudent to stop digging but that just isn't her style...
November 30, 2020
Dead Girl Walking by Roberta Gately is the first book in her Jessie Novak series. As an ER nurse, Jessie Novak is both observer and participant. She’s a smart new female protagonist, even though she’s not the usual cop/former cop or private investigator. I warmed to her personality as the story and her background details evolved. The story is well-written and the plot is engaging. Some of the elements are predictable, but I still enjoyed this mystery and will read any future installments to follow Jessie’s development.
My thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. However, the opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine and mine alone.
My thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. However, the opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine and mine alone.
November 25, 2020
The story started with the bang and a 911 call about a husband and wife being shot. They were both brought to the ER to be treated under the capable hands of Nurse Jessie.
I was so happy this was not a typical police procedural but a cool, level-headed investigation done by Jessie. My first book by author Roberta Gately, I loved Jessie’s intelligence and keen sense of observation. Her instincts were in the right place. I too was frustrated when cop Sam refused to see the obvious. I was quite speechless when he disregarded everything.
Jessie’s love life was in the forefront when she got involved with another cop, in spite of being attracted to Sam. I was quite unsure about this triangle. I kept hoping the book would turn to investigation as every character told me superlative things about her.
Midway down the book, Jessie’s smugness got to me along with her irascible temper which emerged for no reason. It was duplicitous of her when as a nurse, she couldn’t reveal confidential information, but wanted Sam to reveal all minute details of the investigation. I wished the author had dedicated the book more to crime thriller rather than a love triangle and kept the main character focused.
The perp was obvious, and the road to achieve justice was straight. The book was entertaining in most parts. Hoping that book two would keep the prose sharper and twist-ier, if there was such a word.
I was so happy this was not a typical police procedural but a cool, level-headed investigation done by Jessie. My first book by author Roberta Gately, I loved Jessie’s intelligence and keen sense of observation. Her instincts were in the right place. I too was frustrated when cop Sam refused to see the obvious. I was quite speechless when he disregarded everything.
Jessie’s love life was in the forefront when she got involved with another cop, in spite of being attracted to Sam. I was quite unsure about this triangle. I kept hoping the book would turn to investigation as every character told me superlative things about her.
Midway down the book, Jessie’s smugness got to me along with her irascible temper which emerged for no reason. It was duplicitous of her when as a nurse, she couldn’t reveal confidential information, but wanted Sam to reveal all minute details of the investigation. I wished the author had dedicated the book more to crime thriller rather than a love triangle and kept the main character focused.
The perp was obvious, and the road to achieve justice was straight. The book was entertaining in most parts. Hoping that book two would keep the prose sharper and twist-ier, if there was such a word.
November 2, 2021
An ER nurse in a stressful inner city hospital. Jessie Novak isn't able to save the young woman brought in with gun shot wounds. As she looks into the victim's face, she's startled to see that she closely resembles Jessie, herself. She is gripping a red rose petals .. had she been holding a bouquet?
Because there is a small chance that this could possibly be her sister. With the help of local journalist Bert Gibbons, they will investigate as best they can to discover what happened with the young woman.
The closer they get to the truth, the closer the danger. When Bert is also murdered, Jessie knows that someone is willing to do anything to protect themselves ... and that means there is a target squarely on Jessie's back.
This is the first of a series introducing Jessie Novak, and what an auspicious start! There's plenty of action, riveting twists and turns and a nail-biting conclusion. The characters are solidly drawn and compelling in their actions. As the author is an experienced nurse herself, I expected a great deal of credibility in handling the medical portion of this book ... I was not disappointed.
Many thanks to the author / Bookouture / Netgalley for the digital copy of this crime fiction. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
Because there is a small chance that this could possibly be her sister. With the help of local journalist Bert Gibbons, they will investigate as best they can to discover what happened with the young woman.
The closer they get to the truth, the closer the danger. When Bert is also murdered, Jessie knows that someone is willing to do anything to protect themselves ... and that means there is a target squarely on Jessie's back.
This is the first of a series introducing Jessie Novak, and what an auspicious start! There's plenty of action, riveting twists and turns and a nail-biting conclusion. The characters are solidly drawn and compelling in their actions. As the author is an experienced nurse herself, I expected a great deal of credibility in handling the medical portion of this book ... I was not disappointed.
Many thanks to the author / Bookouture / Netgalley for the digital copy of this crime fiction. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
November 23, 2020
The premise of this book sounds quite interesting and appealing especially since i am a nurse and know pretty much what our heroine has to deal with in her daily job activity. It was nice to read her pov in the story and even better that it's the first book in the series so i could get into her head more and know what are the reasons her actions speak up for.
The story starts quite confusing for me and had a very hard time to get into it actually because i was confused of who is who and what their relationship is , but after the first half i started to get a hang of it and to understand a bit more where is this story going. There are many moments when the story adds moments that i thought unnecessary unfortunately and that i couldn't quite overlooked and that's why the lower stars.
It's well written and suspenseful and i'm sure many readers will enjoy it but it wasn't a favourite for me.
The story starts quite confusing for me and had a very hard time to get into it actually because i was confused of who is who and what their relationship is , but after the first half i started to get a hang of it and to understand a bit more where is this story going. There are many moments when the story adds moments that i thought unnecessary unfortunately and that i couldn't quite overlooked and that's why the lower stars.
It's well written and suspenseful and i'm sure many readers will enjoy it but it wasn't a favourite for me.
November 27, 2020
This review was originally posted on Star Crossed Reviews I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to bookouture for letting me take part in this tour and for my copy of this book via netgalley. This book is the first of a new series following Jessie Novak. Jessie is an ER nurse who becomes involved in helping to solve the shooting of Ann Hart.
This book was very interesting as it was a crime novel where the lead character was not a detective or even a police officer. This gave a very different POV. I love a good medical drama. I watch Greys Anatomy, The resident. Chicago Med, New Amsterdam, The Good Doctor. I'll stop there because I could be here for days naming them all. Suffice to say I really enjoyed the ER aspect of this book.
I really liked Jessie. She has some guts and grit about her and I can't wait to see more of her. She did at times have a bit of naivety about her, to the point where I wanted to shout don't do that or don't go there but I'm sure she'll soon lose that.
This is probably not one of those crime thrillers that will give you a big shock ending but I really enjoyed following the clues.
I also enjoyed Jessie's relationship with Rufus. He seems such a sweet old man. I think their friendship will be really good for the pair of them.
I'm very excited about where this series is going to go.
This book was very interesting as it was a crime novel where the lead character was not a detective or even a police officer. This gave a very different POV. I love a good medical drama. I watch Greys Anatomy, The resident. Chicago Med, New Amsterdam, The Good Doctor. I'll stop there because I could be here for days naming them all. Suffice to say I really enjoyed the ER aspect of this book.
I really liked Jessie. She has some guts and grit about her and I can't wait to see more of her. She did at times have a bit of naivety about her, to the point where I wanted to shout don't do that or don't go there but I'm sure she'll soon lose that.
This is probably not one of those crime thrillers that will give you a big shock ending but I really enjoyed following the clues.
I also enjoyed Jessie's relationship with Rufus. He seems such a sweet old man. I think their friendship will be really good for the pair of them.
I'm very excited about where this series is going to go.
November 29, 2020
"Something was wrong here, very wrong."
It's no secret that I'm a sucker for a great crime series. With Dead Girl Walking I've added yet another to my ever-growing list.
ER nurse Jessie Novak finds herself embroiled in a dangerous game of cat and mouse after becoming determined to bring a killer to justice. She is sure she knows who brutally attacked Ann Hart, but the police don't agree. So she sets out to find the evidence herself, putting her own life in danger. Can she find the proof and expose the killer before they can silence her?
"And that was what she liked best about the ER. It was a metaphor for life; unpredictable, unexpected, both deadly boring and wildly exciting, and you could have all of that in one shift."
Reading this was like watching a mash-up of ER and Rizzoli & Isles. It is a riveting start to a new series and I flew through this book in just a few hours. The author knows how to keep the reader on the edge of their seat and is full of heart-stopping tension. Jessie's job as an ER nurse only adds to this, the chaos leaping from the page. It is obvious from the detail in these scenes that the author has experience of working in that environment and this added to the authentic feel of the story.
For any series to be successful, it's characters have to be believable, interesting and memorable. The author has given the reader just that with the creation of Jessie and Detective Sam Dallas. Jessie is easy to like and get behind. I quickly felt invested in her life and was rooting for her to bring the killer to justice. The dynamic between her and Sam is entertaining and they have the perfect amount of chemistry and tension to make a great crime duo. I'm looking forward to seeing what the author has in store for them in book two.
A captivating start to a new crime series, this taut, twisty and suspenseful book is one you'll find hard to put down. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well written thriller or mystery.
It's no secret that I'm a sucker for a great crime series. With Dead Girl Walking I've added yet another to my ever-growing list.
ER nurse Jessie Novak finds herself embroiled in a dangerous game of cat and mouse after becoming determined to bring a killer to justice. She is sure she knows who brutally attacked Ann Hart, but the police don't agree. So she sets out to find the evidence herself, putting her own life in danger. Can she find the proof and expose the killer before they can silence her?
"And that was what she liked best about the ER. It was a metaphor for life; unpredictable, unexpected, both deadly boring and wildly exciting, and you could have all of that in one shift."
Reading this was like watching a mash-up of ER and Rizzoli & Isles. It is a riveting start to a new series and I flew through this book in just a few hours. The author knows how to keep the reader on the edge of their seat and is full of heart-stopping tension. Jessie's job as an ER nurse only adds to this, the chaos leaping from the page. It is obvious from the detail in these scenes that the author has experience of working in that environment and this added to the authentic feel of the story.
For any series to be successful, it's characters have to be believable, interesting and memorable. The author has given the reader just that with the creation of Jessie and Detective Sam Dallas. Jessie is easy to like and get behind. I quickly felt invested in her life and was rooting for her to bring the killer to justice. The dynamic between her and Sam is entertaining and they have the perfect amount of chemistry and tension to make a great crime duo. I'm looking forward to seeing what the author has in store for them in book two.
A captivating start to a new crime series, this taut, twisty and suspenseful book is one you'll find hard to put down. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well written thriller or mystery.
November 25, 2020
This book is the first instalment in the Jessie Novak series written by Roberta Gately, set in Boston, Massachusetts.
Married couple Rob and Ann Hart are out and about when a man approaches them and shoots, hitting Rob in his side and Ann in the head, but when the emergency dispatcher asks Rob to check whether or not Ann's breathing, there's no answer and the line goes dead with a click. Meanwhile, Emergency Room Triage Nurse Jessie Novak is just about to clock off when the paramedics radio to inform Boston City Hospital of their ETA. Jessie quickly assembles the trauma team and the surgeon on duty, and later, when she goes to leave the trauma area, police, reporters and others are blocking the corridor. Jessie's friend, Detective Sam Dallas is in charge of the investigation.
Dead Girl Walking was a compelling read and I was soon wholly absorbed in the storyline. Being an ER Nurse gave Jessie a bit of an edge and she was a little different to your average protagonist. I liked Jessie's intelligence, astuteness and keen sense of observation. This novel for me was primarily a police procedural with a sharp amateur sleuth at its heart, whose job provided a great vantage point to oversee anyone admitted with injuries that might give cause for suspicion. This novel was a wicked and exciting thriller where no one could be trusted, with dangerous situations crossing boundaries between Jessie’s working and personal life. It was so good and I can't wait for book two!
I received a complimentary copy of this novel from Bookouture via NetGalley at my request and this review is my own unbiased opinion.
Married couple Rob and Ann Hart are out and about when a man approaches them and shoots, hitting Rob in his side and Ann in the head, but when the emergency dispatcher asks Rob to check whether or not Ann's breathing, there's no answer and the line goes dead with a click. Meanwhile, Emergency Room Triage Nurse Jessie Novak is just about to clock off when the paramedics radio to inform Boston City Hospital of their ETA. Jessie quickly assembles the trauma team and the surgeon on duty, and later, when she goes to leave the trauma area, police, reporters and others are blocking the corridor. Jessie's friend, Detective Sam Dallas is in charge of the investigation.
Dead Girl Walking was a compelling read and I was soon wholly absorbed in the storyline. Being an ER Nurse gave Jessie a bit of an edge and she was a little different to your average protagonist. I liked Jessie's intelligence, astuteness and keen sense of observation. This novel for me was primarily a police procedural with a sharp amateur sleuth at its heart, whose job provided a great vantage point to oversee anyone admitted with injuries that might give cause for suspicion. This novel was a wicked and exciting thriller where no one could be trusted, with dangerous situations crossing boundaries between Jessie’s working and personal life. It was so good and I can't wait for book two!
I received a complimentary copy of this novel from Bookouture via NetGalley at my request and this review is my own unbiased opinion.
November 23, 2020
This is the first book in a new series by Roberta Gately and it’s a great start.
Jesse is an ER nurse and has seen most things but when a husband and wife get rushed in after being shot, it’s all hands to the deck.
The man’s political role makes the shooting front page news so the pressure is on to find the person responsible.
Jesse has her thoughts on the crime and helps the police with their investigation which is a great help to them.
It seemed odd at first for a crime thriller to have the main character work as an ER nurse, but it works.
I’m looking forward to seeing what happens next in this series.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
Jesse is an ER nurse and has seen most things but when a husband and wife get rushed in after being shot, it’s all hands to the deck.
The man’s political role makes the shooting front page news so the pressure is on to find the person responsible.
Jesse has her thoughts on the crime and helps the police with their investigation which is a great help to them.
It seemed odd at first for a crime thriller to have the main character work as an ER nurse, but it works.
I’m looking forward to seeing what happens next in this series.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
May 10, 2021
This book is the first in the Jessie Novak series, starting off with a bang when the Mayor's aide Rob Hart and his wife are shot. As they reach the ER Jessie starts working on them but something is confusing her. Why was he just shot in the leg but his wife shot in the head and later dies?
Jessie can’t understand it, it doesn’t make sense and thinks Rob had something to do with it and starts delving but as she investigates and helps the police as much as she can, telling them her own suspicions she finds that she could be in danger too when strange things start happening at her home.
This was a great read, I liked Jessie Novak’s character and how she was determined to find out the real reason for the shooting and the death of Ann Hart but at the same time putting herself in a dangerous situation too.
It was a book that I didn’t want to put down, and although I found that my suspicions about someone was right it did not spoil the story. It just made me read it faster to see if I was right.
Overall I enjoyed reading it, it was different, fresh and I'm looking forward to the next instalment in the series.
Jessie can’t understand it, it doesn’t make sense and thinks Rob had something to do with it and starts delving but as she investigates and helps the police as much as she can, telling them her own suspicions she finds that she could be in danger too when strange things start happening at her home.
This was a great read, I liked Jessie Novak’s character and how she was determined to find out the real reason for the shooting and the death of Ann Hart but at the same time putting herself in a dangerous situation too.
It was a book that I didn’t want to put down, and although I found that my suspicions about someone was right it did not spoil the story. It just made me read it faster to see if I was right.
Overall I enjoyed reading it, it was different, fresh and I'm looking forward to the next instalment in the series.
November 14, 2020
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC copy
Dead Girl Walking is the first book in a series, a fact that is nicely established through the path the main character goes through in the book.
However, I don't find myself very interested in continuing reading this series. Despite keeping me interested in finding out who had done what, I didn't find this book to be a great thriller.
Not only were the mysteries pretty easy to guess (not every plot twist has to be the most surprising, but I feel like any reader could guess what had happened here), it also included many tropes that I personally do not enjoy.
Even though it had relevance to the resolution of the mystery, I feel like too much time was spent on who the MC dated or who she might fancy as well. Yet the resolution was very rushed. I much rather spend time learning about the murder than reading about Jessie's love life. Also, this MC was a genius on the eyes of experts of their fields because she noticed things they didn't (and those weren't tricky things to guess) but then proceeded to make the stupidest choices, which put her in danger.
It's obviously just book 1 in a series, so hopefully, those "mistakes" can be fixed in future entries.
Dead Girl Walking is the first book in a series, a fact that is nicely established through the path the main character goes through in the book.
However, I don't find myself very interested in continuing reading this series. Despite keeping me interested in finding out who had done what, I didn't find this book to be a great thriller.
Not only were the mysteries pretty easy to guess (not every plot twist has to be the most surprising, but I feel like any reader could guess what had happened here), it also included many tropes that I personally do not enjoy.
Even though it had relevance to the resolution of the mystery, I feel like too much time was spent on who the MC dated or who she might fancy as well. Yet the resolution was very rushed. I much rather spend time learning about the murder than reading about Jessie's love life. Also, this MC was a genius on the eyes of experts of their fields because she noticed things they didn't (and those weren't tricky things to guess) but then proceeded to make the stupidest choices, which put her in danger.
It's obviously just book 1 in a series, so hopefully, those "mistakes" can be fixed in future entries.
November 21, 2020
Jessie works as an ER nurse. One of the mayor's staff is shot in the leg, his wife in the head.
From the beginning, Jessie is convinced Rob Hart had something to do with the shooting.
Predictable. Skimmed to finish.
From the beginning, Jessie is convinced Rob Hart had something to do with the shooting.
Predictable. Skimmed to finish.
July 19, 2022
an incredible start to a new series i absolutely LOVED this one and jessie novak!! i can’t wait to dive into the next one!!
November 18, 2021
I really enjoyed this book. Jess was a wee bit clueless when it to some things going on. But all in all I really liked the concept of an ER nurse really seeing the bigger picture of the murder. Definitely diving into book 2.
December 3, 2020
I am not usually a Mystery fan, but having read and enjoyed Roberta Gately's other books, I figured I would try her new one. Dead Girl Walking was full of some interesting twists. You could tell from the details in the hospital setting that she is a nurse. Being from Boston, I loved all the authentic Boston references. I was pulled in by the story and hope her next book starts where this one finished.
June 15, 2025
Dead Girl Walking is the first book in a new series featuring Jessie Novak, a Emergency Room Triage Nurse as its lead. Set in Boston Massachusetts, the story follows Jessie’s quest for answers after a beautiful woman is bought into the emergency room, with a gunshot. Who would do this? Why?
The story has been well plotted, executed and with Roberta Gately bringing her own knowledge as a nurse to the table, this makes for an interesting medical drama crossed with a crime thriller. The mystery itself plays out well and kept me on my toes and while there are no big shocks or surprises, still made for an entertaining read.
Jessie’s character has been written very well. She is smart, gutsy and has good instincts. While there were no big surprises, there were plenty of distractions for Jessie, first and foremost, her love life. Can Jessie find the find balance in her life? And a killer?
What I like most about this book and what initially drew me to it, was that Jessie is an Emergency Room Triage Nurse and not a police detective as is normally the case with these types of stories. Her role puts her front and centre into the thick of things and brings a refreshing change, with a different point of view.
Dead Girl Walking is a strong start to a new series. The prologue kicks things off in spectacular fashion and from there it hits the ground running, never letting up on its frantic pace until the final page. The story is interesting, the characters are real and relatable, the writing is sharp and I look forward to seeing the direction the series takes next. Dead Girl Walking is the first book in a new series featuring Jessie Novak, a Emergency Room Triage Nurse as its lead. Set in Boston Massachusetts, the story follows Jessie’s quest for answers after a beautiful woman is bought into the emergency room, with a gunshot. Who would do this? Why?
The story has been well plotted, executed and with Roberta Gately bringing her own knowledge as a nurse to the table, this makes for an interesting medical drama crossed with a crime thriller. The mystery itself plays out well and kept me on my toes and while there are no big shocks or surprises, still made for an entertaining read.
Jessie’s character has been written very well. She is smart, gutsy and has good instincts. While there were no big surprises, there were plenty of distractions for Jessie, first and foremost, her love life. Can Jessie find the find balance in her life? And a killer?
What I like most about this book and what initially drew me to it, was that Jessie is an Emergency Room Triage Nurse and not a police detective as is normally the case with these types of stories. Her role puts her front and centre into the thick of things and brings a refreshing change, with a different point of view.
Dead Girl Walking is a strong start to a new series. The prologue kicks things off in spectacular fashion and from there it hits the ground running, never letting up on its frantic pace until the final page. The story is interesting, the characters are real and relatable, the writing is sharp and I look forward to seeing the direction the series takes next.
The story has been well plotted, executed and with Roberta Gately bringing her own knowledge as a nurse to the table, this makes for an interesting medical drama crossed with a crime thriller. The mystery itself plays out well and kept me on my toes and while there are no big shocks or surprises, still made for an entertaining read.
Jessie’s character has been written very well. She is smart, gutsy and has good instincts. While there were no big surprises, there were plenty of distractions for Jessie, first and foremost, her love life. Can Jessie find the find balance in her life? And a killer?
What I like most about this book and what initially drew me to it, was that Jessie is an Emergency Room Triage Nurse and not a police detective as is normally the case with these types of stories. Her role puts her front and centre into the thick of things and brings a refreshing change, with a different point of view.
Dead Girl Walking is a strong start to a new series. The prologue kicks things off in spectacular fashion and from there it hits the ground running, never letting up on its frantic pace until the final page. The story is interesting, the characters are real and relatable, the writing is sharp and I look forward to seeing the direction the series takes next. Dead Girl Walking is the first book in a new series featuring Jessie Novak, a Emergency Room Triage Nurse as its lead. Set in Boston Massachusetts, the story follows Jessie’s quest for answers after a beautiful woman is bought into the emergency room, with a gunshot. Who would do this? Why?
The story has been well plotted, executed and with Roberta Gately bringing her own knowledge as a nurse to the table, this makes for an interesting medical drama crossed with a crime thriller. The mystery itself plays out well and kept me on my toes and while there are no big shocks or surprises, still made for an entertaining read.
Jessie’s character has been written very well. She is smart, gutsy and has good instincts. While there were no big surprises, there were plenty of distractions for Jessie, first and foremost, her love life. Can Jessie find the find balance in her life? And a killer?
What I like most about this book and what initially drew me to it, was that Jessie is an Emergency Room Triage Nurse and not a police detective as is normally the case with these types of stories. Her role puts her front and centre into the thick of things and brings a refreshing change, with a different point of view.
Dead Girl Walking is a strong start to a new series. The prologue kicks things off in spectacular fashion and from there it hits the ground running, never letting up on its frantic pace until the final page. The story is interesting, the characters are real and relatable, the writing is sharp and I look forward to seeing the direction the series takes next.
November 25, 2020
Dead Girl Walking follows ER nurse Jessie Novak who treats patient Ann Hart after she has been shot by an unknown assailant alongside her husband. Jessie helps with the police investigation into Ann's shooting and starts receiving bouquets of the same flowers that were found in Ann's hair when she was brought into the ER.
When I read the summary of this book I was immediately dubious (although curious) about the premise of the ER nurse getting involved in a police investigation. On one hand it is different from the norm of following the police or forensics through a case but there is also the issue of would it even make sense coming from the point of view of the nurse. My conclusion - no it does not. It just felt forced. The entire way through this book I kept thinking why on earth would this nurse be getting this involved? A link is created to forensics that I believe will continue in the series to try and bridge this gap but I felt like it was an unusual set up just created to make the nurse role fit better.
Jessie is a pretty irritating character overall and I can't say I warmed to her over time. She was apparently so clever and valuable as an employee that she was wanted by the ER department, ICU and forensics and yet she missed things that were completely obvious to anyone with a single brain cell (though nobody in this book seemed particularly sharp!). She spent half her time trying to decide who she fancied and why instead of anything of use. She was completely dismissive of the police and their ability to solve the crime and couldn't understand why they didn't follow her random theories. The police discussed the case with her in far too much detail to be realistic - she is a nurse, not a detective and they would not share details about the case with her.
None of the other characters were particularly strong or memorable in any way either. I should mention there was a love triangle but this was nothing more than cringeworthy.
I can forgive bland characters if the plot is on point. It was not. I figured out almost everything with little difficulty. The direction this was going to take was obvious and instead of suspense waiting for the characters to figure things out it was just frustrating watching them fail to see what was right in front of them.
Overall this was a very simplistic novel that tried using a new viewpoint to spice things up and I wasn't a fan of the end result.
I was provided with an ARC copy via NetGalley in return for an honest review
When I read the summary of this book I was immediately dubious (although curious) about the premise of the ER nurse getting involved in a police investigation. On one hand it is different from the norm of following the police or forensics through a case but there is also the issue of would it even make sense coming from the point of view of the nurse. My conclusion - no it does not. It just felt forced. The entire way through this book I kept thinking why on earth would this nurse be getting this involved? A link is created to forensics that I believe will continue in the series to try and bridge this gap but I felt like it was an unusual set up just created to make the nurse role fit better.
Jessie is a pretty irritating character overall and I can't say I warmed to her over time. She was apparently so clever and valuable as an employee that she was wanted by the ER department, ICU and forensics and yet she missed things that were completely obvious to anyone with a single brain cell (though nobody in this book seemed particularly sharp!). She spent half her time trying to decide who she fancied and why instead of anything of use. She was completely dismissive of the police and their ability to solve the crime and couldn't understand why they didn't follow her random theories. The police discussed the case with her in far too much detail to be realistic - she is a nurse, not a detective and they would not share details about the case with her.
None of the other characters were particularly strong or memorable in any way either. I should mention there was a love triangle but this was nothing more than cringeworthy.
I can forgive bland characters if the plot is on point. It was not. I figured out almost everything with little difficulty. The direction this was going to take was obvious and instead of suspense waiting for the characters to figure things out it was just frustrating watching them fail to see what was right in front of them.
Overall this was a very simplistic novel that tried using a new viewpoint to spice things up and I wasn't a fan of the end result.
I was provided with an ARC copy via NetGalley in return for an honest review
December 2, 2020
Great characters! This new heroine is fantastic!
I loved seeing an ER nurse as the main character, and I thought she was well constructed and authentic. I generally don't like a "torn between two guys" storyline, but this one was written pretty well, was mostly believable and wasn't overly dramatic. Both of the male characters, as well as most of the secondary characters, were fleshed out enough to be interesting but not so much that the details felt unnecessary, which can be a hard line to walk, especially if you're setting up for future books in the series. Well done there.
The plot was interesting. The storyline took you for an interesting ride, thought the end was ultimately very predictable. The thing I struggled with was that an ER nurse bound by HIPPA laws and a Detective bound by the restrictions of an ongoing investigation is a pretty unbelievable team. Gately seemed to address this by throwing "I couldn't tell you, that would be a HIPPA violation" and then heavily implying something, or "Keep that under your hat, this is an ongoing investigation" in there when the characters were sharing information.. I *might* have believed that his unlikely professional pair might have shared information at night if an ER nurse had been married to a Detective for years... but it all just seemed very unlikely with a pair that's just casually dating (or not? still unsure)..
I did like that the corner invited Jessie to work in the morgue/with the PD, but the call from Jessie's boss was, again, just a little unbelievable "Hi Jessie, yes you can split your time between here and there and keep all your benefits and schedule and overtime and it'll all be great! Good luck!". Jessie working part time for the PD is a good idea in theory but it still doesn't solve the privacy issue.
All that being said, I truly liked Jessie & Sam and the writing was compelling so I do hope she finds some way to help Jessie evolve into a forensic nurse or a CSU employee or something so that her nursing experience is helpful with examining wounds and corroborating evidence rather than having her input be a privacy violation concerning a specific case.
I loved seeing an ER nurse as the main character, and I thought she was well constructed and authentic. I generally don't like a "torn between two guys" storyline, but this one was written pretty well, was mostly believable and wasn't overly dramatic. Both of the male characters, as well as most of the secondary characters, were fleshed out enough to be interesting but not so much that the details felt unnecessary, which can be a hard line to walk, especially if you're setting up for future books in the series. Well done there.
The plot was interesting. The storyline took you for an interesting ride, thought the end was ultimately very predictable. The thing I struggled with was that an ER nurse bound by HIPPA laws and a Detective bound by the restrictions of an ongoing investigation is a pretty unbelievable team. Gately seemed to address this by throwing "I couldn't tell you, that would be a HIPPA violation" and then heavily implying something, or "Keep that under your hat, this is an ongoing investigation" in there when the characters were sharing information.. I *might* have believed that his unlikely professional pair might have shared information at night if an ER nurse had been married to a Detective for years... but it all just seemed very unlikely with a pair that's just casually dating (or not? still unsure)..
I did like that the corner invited Jessie to work in the morgue/with the PD, but the call from Jessie's boss was, again, just a little unbelievable "Hi Jessie, yes you can split your time between here and there and keep all your benefits and schedule and overtime and it'll all be great! Good luck!". Jessie working part time for the PD is a good idea in theory but it still doesn't solve the privacy issue.
All that being said, I truly liked Jessie & Sam and the writing was compelling so I do hope she finds some way to help Jessie evolve into a forensic nurse or a CSU employee or something so that her nursing experience is helpful with examining wounds and corroborating evidence rather than having her input be a privacy violation concerning a specific case.
November 14, 2020
A new author I have been wowed by! As a debut with Bookouture, this was one hell of a phenomenal novel!
The first thing I loved about it was the point of view from a hospital worker. I’m used to a crime thriller being from the lead detectors point of view so this was the first series that I’ve read from this point of view and I was pleasantly surprised.
It’s different, fresh and certainly not something I’ve read before. I can see other authors would follow suit. There’s been books with hospital emergency nurse as a main character but the work aspect was the backstory. This though was at the forefront and made up the basis of the main storyline!
Being a fan of Casualty, Greys Anatomy and similar tv dramas, I knew this would be a huge hit for me. Seeing an author break the normal boundaries is brave and in this case a great choice of being a little different.
Whether your a thriller lover like me, or like a mystery, this novel really does pack a punch. A riveting storyline follows the story of a husband and wife who were shot. Thereafter the plot thickens and several people become suspects. The suspense installed the pace in this novel and was so intriguing and that I didn’t want to stop reading and I had to reluctantly force myself to put it down. After I’d finished work I picked it straight back up and finished it the same day.
I really can’t form words to express how great this book was! The novel has been set up to continue the lives of some of those main characters. I’m certainly looking forward to learning more about them and seeing where the author will take this series. I can see plenty of potential and can’t wait to absorb myself into each instalment of Jessie Novak life in this series.
Well done to Roberta Gatley, you have a new fan!
The first thing I loved about it was the point of view from a hospital worker. I’m used to a crime thriller being from the lead detectors point of view so this was the first series that I’ve read from this point of view and I was pleasantly surprised.
It’s different, fresh and certainly not something I’ve read before. I can see other authors would follow suit. There’s been books with hospital emergency nurse as a main character but the work aspect was the backstory. This though was at the forefront and made up the basis of the main storyline!
Being a fan of Casualty, Greys Anatomy and similar tv dramas, I knew this would be a huge hit for me. Seeing an author break the normal boundaries is brave and in this case a great choice of being a little different.
Whether your a thriller lover like me, or like a mystery, this novel really does pack a punch. A riveting storyline follows the story of a husband and wife who were shot. Thereafter the plot thickens and several people become suspects. The suspense installed the pace in this novel and was so intriguing and that I didn’t want to stop reading and I had to reluctantly force myself to put it down. After I’d finished work I picked it straight back up and finished it the same day.
I really can’t form words to express how great this book was! The novel has been set up to continue the lives of some of those main characters. I’m certainly looking forward to learning more about them and seeing where the author will take this series. I can see plenty of potential and can’t wait to absorb myself into each instalment of Jessie Novak life in this series.
Well done to Roberta Gatley, you have a new fan!
November 22, 2020
First, I want to thank Roberta Gately, Bookouture and NetGalley for providing me with this book so I can bring you this review.
Instantly I got sucked into the fast paced, intense, graphic and frantic beginning of Roberta Gately’s latest read Dead Girl Walking. It was the best of both worlds with criminal investigation and medical drama. The book reminded me of one of the ER crossover shows with the Investigative team.
This book is in loving memory of Roberta’s cherished brother Jim Gately, an adored husband, father, brother, uncle and friend. Gone too soon. Forever Missed. Forever Loved.
The graphic designer created the coolest and most unique cover to this book. It grabbed my attention and made me wonder what the book was about.
Boston was a great destination for this book. It is one of my favorite places to visit.
Roberta seemed so passionate about the special connection to Jesse. You could feel it in what she wrote.
I absolutely loved how Roberta took her knowledge of all things medical and incorporated them into the book. Plus, she educated me on a few things I didn’t know. For those of who watch those prime time ER shows and investigative forensic shows we thank you!
Jan Hart’s storyline was one shock after the other to total heartbreak. The investigation made for a suspenseful read.
Mr. Hart creeped me out big time though.
One thing that made me smile is Jesse was compared to an Angel by a local newspaper. Right now with everything going on in the world today more healthcare and mental workers need to hear that.
Instantly I got sucked into the fast paced, intense, graphic and frantic beginning of Roberta Gately’s latest read Dead Girl Walking. It was the best of both worlds with criminal investigation and medical drama. The book reminded me of one of the ER crossover shows with the Investigative team.
This book is in loving memory of Roberta’s cherished brother Jim Gately, an adored husband, father, brother, uncle and friend. Gone too soon. Forever Missed. Forever Loved.
The graphic designer created the coolest and most unique cover to this book. It grabbed my attention and made me wonder what the book was about.
Boston was a great destination for this book. It is one of my favorite places to visit.
Roberta seemed so passionate about the special connection to Jesse. You could feel it in what she wrote.
I absolutely loved how Roberta took her knowledge of all things medical and incorporated them into the book. Plus, she educated me on a few things I didn’t know. For those of who watch those prime time ER shows and investigative forensic shows we thank you!
Jan Hart’s storyline was one shock after the other to total heartbreak. The investigation made for a suspenseful read.
Mr. Hart creeped me out big time though.
One thing that made me smile is Jesse was compared to an Angel by a local newspaper. Right now with everything going on in the world today more healthcare and mental workers need to hear that.
November 26, 2020
An Emergency Room nurse, Jessie Novak, plays detective in this crime thriller.
When a young couple is attacked, shot, and left for dead in an alley, they are brought to Boston City Hospital by ambulance. Jessie is on duty and finds the wife, Ann Hart, barely alive and the husband with a less serious wound. For some reason, she can't get the crime out of her mind and is quite suspicious about the event. Meanwhile, she's harassed by a reporter and is involved with two local cops who share many investigative details about their investigation with her. NO SPOILERS.
I confess I picked this up solely because I have also worked as an ER nurse. I'm always interested in medical thrillers and thought that this first in a new series might hit the spot for me. Unfortunately, I found it all fairly ludicrous and my ability to take the necessary leaps to credulity was strained to the max level. I simply could not stand the main character, Jessie, nor could I even remotely imagine the level of her involvement in a crime such as this as an ER nurse. The other main irritation I developed was with Jessie's romantic entanglements. Overall, I did not find this gripping or suspenseful -- it all just seemed silly to me. I doubt I'll be interested in another installment featuring this character.
I would like to thank NetGalley and Bookouture for providing a copy of this e-book ARC for me to read and review.
When a young couple is attacked, shot, and left for dead in an alley, they are brought to Boston City Hospital by ambulance. Jessie is on duty and finds the wife, Ann Hart, barely alive and the husband with a less serious wound. For some reason, she can't get the crime out of her mind and is quite suspicious about the event. Meanwhile, she's harassed by a reporter and is involved with two local cops who share many investigative details about their investigation with her. NO SPOILERS.
I confess I picked this up solely because I have also worked as an ER nurse. I'm always interested in medical thrillers and thought that this first in a new series might hit the spot for me. Unfortunately, I found it all fairly ludicrous and my ability to take the necessary leaps to credulity was strained to the max level. I simply could not stand the main character, Jessie, nor could I even remotely imagine the level of her involvement in a crime such as this as an ER nurse. The other main irritation I developed was with Jessie's romantic entanglements. Overall, I did not find this gripping or suspenseful -- it all just seemed silly to me. I doubt I'll be interested in another installment featuring this character.
I would like to thank NetGalley and Bookouture for providing a copy of this e-book ARC for me to read and review.
November 20, 2020
Many thanks to Bookouture & Netgalley for a free copy in exchange for an honest review!
A thriller with an ER nurse as the main character, Dead Girl Walking was a fun, fresh take on a murder mystery. Although there were times I got annoyed with Jessie — mainly due to the repetition of some character flaws/quirks (I cannot count the number of times that it was emphasized that Jessie always falls for the “wrong type of guy”) — the plot was fairly quick and the story engaging. I especially loved the tidbits about working in the ER and the relationships between the nurses & doctors & admin. I did find myself getting annoyed, too, with Jessie’s interactions with the lead detective — she seemed to get irrationally angry at him, oddly frequently. I did guess the whodunnit — there were red herrings but not a lot and never ones that were fully believable — but the story as to why, as well as the action leading up to an arrest, was enjoyable. The ending was slightly meh due to a mini cliffhanger, though.
All in all — I’m glad I read it! And I can definitely see myself continuing to read this series as Gately writes further Jessie Novak novels.
A thriller with an ER nurse as the main character, Dead Girl Walking was a fun, fresh take on a murder mystery. Although there were times I got annoyed with Jessie — mainly due to the repetition of some character flaws/quirks (I cannot count the number of times that it was emphasized that Jessie always falls for the “wrong type of guy”) — the plot was fairly quick and the story engaging. I especially loved the tidbits about working in the ER and the relationships between the nurses & doctors & admin. I did find myself getting annoyed, too, with Jessie’s interactions with the lead detective — she seemed to get irrationally angry at him, oddly frequently. I did guess the whodunnit — there were red herrings but not a lot and never ones that were fully believable — but the story as to why, as well as the action leading up to an arrest, was enjoyable. The ending was slightly meh due to a mini cliffhanger, though.
All in all — I’m glad I read it! And I can definitely see myself continuing to read this series as Gately writes further Jessie Novak novels.
November 13, 2020
I have always been such a huge fan of Bookouture authors the stories they publish always seem to deliver exactly what you are promised, and this one is no different.
What I loved most about this book was following Jessie through her daily grind as a nurse. I found that this gave the book a very unique edge for me. Reading about the patients being admitted and the daily tasks if a medical professional created a medical drama show to play through me head as I was reading.
I felt like I was on a fast momentum swing most of the way through this book as I just couldnt make up my mind with where the author was going yo take us as the pages kept turning.
I had my suspicions about what was going to happen but because of the way the book was written and how well you were drip fed information, my heart was racing, the tension building and the excitement exploding.
I read this book in a day, reluctantly putting it down when real life got in the way. I absolutely loved the writing style of this story and cannot wait to be reunited with Jessie Novak in her next adventure.
What I loved most about this book was following Jessie through her daily grind as a nurse. I found that this gave the book a very unique edge for me. Reading about the patients being admitted and the daily tasks if a medical professional created a medical drama show to play through me head as I was reading.
I felt like I was on a fast momentum swing most of the way through this book as I just couldnt make up my mind with where the author was going yo take us as the pages kept turning.
I had my suspicions about what was going to happen but because of the way the book was written and how well you were drip fed information, my heart was racing, the tension building and the excitement exploding.
I read this book in a day, reluctantly putting it down when real life got in the way. I absolutely loved the writing style of this story and cannot wait to be reunited with Jessie Novak in her next adventure.
November 21, 2020
WoW......... And what a "Breath of Fresh air" this New author was for me!
Everyone loves a new author and when Roberta Gately's new book called Dead Girl Walking. I had to find some me time and open my kindle and start to read it. Oh, Boy, I was not disappointed!!! It was Brilliant! and I was hooked from the very first page!
“911. What’s your emergency?”
“He came for her. She’s been shot,” says a desperate voice, as footsteps echo down an alley. “She’s dying.”
“Oh no, oh no, he’s coming back. Please, come quickly––” And then a click, and the drone of a dial tone.
What a book! This is the first book in the Jessie Novak series and I loved it. You will find it's a roller coaster read and will leave you sitting on the edge of your seat. Just what you need for a new author.
I am so Looking forward reading more from Roberta Gately in the future.
I highly recommend this book 10/10 cracking read!.
Big Thank you Bookouture and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Everyone loves a new author and when Roberta Gately's new book called Dead Girl Walking. I had to find some me time and open my kindle and start to read it. Oh, Boy, I was not disappointed!!! It was Brilliant! and I was hooked from the very first page!
“911. What’s your emergency?”
“He came for her. She’s been shot,” says a desperate voice, as footsteps echo down an alley. “She’s dying.”
“Oh no, oh no, he’s coming back. Please, come quickly––” And then a click, and the drone of a dial tone.
What a book! This is the first book in the Jessie Novak series and I loved it. You will find it's a roller coaster read and will leave you sitting on the edge of your seat. Just what you need for a new author.
I am so Looking forward reading more from Roberta Gately in the future.
I highly recommend this book 10/10 cracking read!.
Big Thank you Bookouture and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 18, 2021
Dead Girl Walking is the first book I’ve read by this author but it definitely won’t be my last!
The book starts off with a very dramatic call to 911 by someone telling the operator “She’s been shot” and from there I was immediately drawn in and hooked!!!!
Apart from a gripping storyline I really enjoyed the fact that though she called on her detective friend Sam Dallas it was a nurse (Jessie) who was doing most of the investigating in this story as I haven’t read a procedural from that perspective before. Jessie took it upon herself to find out what happened to the beautiful girl (Anna) with roses in her hair who presented in very bad shape while Jessie was working her shift in the ER dept.
I found Jessie to be very intelligent and brave and really liked her character and I enjoyed the romance aspect too.
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for the ARC of Dead Girl Walking my review is honest and unbiased.
The book starts off with a very dramatic call to 911 by someone telling the operator “She’s been shot” and from there I was immediately drawn in and hooked!!!!
Apart from a gripping storyline I really enjoyed the fact that though she called on her detective friend Sam Dallas it was a nurse (Jessie) who was doing most of the investigating in this story as I haven’t read a procedural from that perspective before. Jessie took it upon herself to find out what happened to the beautiful girl (Anna) with roses in her hair who presented in very bad shape while Jessie was working her shift in the ER dept.
I found Jessie to be very intelligent and brave and really liked her character and I enjoyed the romance aspect too.
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for the ARC of Dead Girl Walking my review is honest and unbiased.
February 19, 2024
This is where we meet Jessie, an ER nurse who is the main character and in fact an amateur sleuth. I think people working in this part of a hospital are really good judges of character. They see people at their worst and can observe them and see if their reactions are genuine or not.
Jessie immediately feels something is off when this couple is being brought in. Is the police following the same path or are they not sharing her point of view at all?
Jessie is determined to uncover the truth, but danger is lurking around the corner...
The author has created a great story where I was constantly changing my mind about the involvement of certain people. I had put my money on one of them and in the end it was confirmed that I had picked the right one, but I was still having doubts until the end. That is what I adore in a book.
I know this is the beginning of a fantastic series, because I have already read the other books. 5 stars for a strong first book.
Thank you
Jessie immediately feels something is off when this couple is being brought in. Is the police following the same path or are they not sharing her point of view at all?
Jessie is determined to uncover the truth, but danger is lurking around the corner...
The author has created a great story where I was constantly changing my mind about the involvement of certain people. I had put my money on one of them and in the end it was confirmed that I had picked the right one, but I was still having doubts until the end. That is what I adore in a book.
I know this is the beginning of a fantastic series, because I have already read the other books. 5 stars for a strong first book.
Thank you
November 1, 2020
This is the first book with Jessie Novak as the main character. It was a good start but will be interested to know what will happen in book two. Usually the main character in a crime novel is a police officer or victim, with this Jessie is an emergency nurse.
Jessie is on duty when Ann Hart and her husband are brought in after being shot. How is Ann critically injured when her husband sent? Jessie seems to think it’s because her husband was involved with the shooting. Detective Sam Dallas is on the receiving end of all Jessie’s theories but isn’t sur she’s on the right track.
I liked how the story progressed and ended. I will be interested to I know up book two to see where the characters go next.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
#DeadGirlWalking #NetGalley
Jessie is on duty when Ann Hart and her husband are brought in after being shot. How is Ann critically injured when her husband sent? Jessie seems to think it’s because her husband was involved with the shooting. Detective Sam Dallas is on the receiving end of all Jessie’s theories but isn’t sur she’s on the right track.
I liked how the story progressed and ended. I will be interested to I know up book two to see where the characters go next.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
#DeadGirlWalking #NetGalley
November 24, 2020
I was totally hooked on this book from the very first scene, when two seriously injured robbery victims show up during Jessie Novak's shift in the ER. Jessie, a tough and smart ER nurse with a ton of experience, knows there's more to this so-called robbery than meets the eye -- but what does it all add up to, and can she get anyone to listen? The story is so good, it's impossible not to test out your own theories about the crime as you move through the pages. But what makes this book so different from other crime novels is Jessie, the strong and fascinating heroine, who opens the whole world of the ER to us, showing us the ins and outs that many of us would never otherwise get a glimpse of. The story also includes a healthy dose of romance and some wonderfully steamy love scenes. Such strong storytelling. Can't wait for the next book in the Jessie Novak series!
November 26, 2020
Dead girl walking the first book in the series by Roberta Gately- another new author for me.
Loved it! I’m a huge fan of crime thriller books and happy to add this to one of my favourite reads of the year.
Jesse an ER nurse has a very busy night when two people - husband and wife - get rushed in after being shot. The husband an up and coming political hotshot makes the shooting front page news. Jesse has her thoughts on the crime and whilst working her already stressful and high paced job helps the police with questioning and her views to help solve the crime.
I loved that our main character was an ER nurse and that we get the story from her perspective and not so much from the normal police detective side. The glimpse we get into the busy hospital environment was good to read also.
I did find some of Jesse’s personal choices questionable but no one is perfect. The interaction between herself and her elderly neighbour I found endearing and hope to read more between the two further in the series. I feel that this book is very nicely set up for the future books and there is plenty more that I want to read about Jesse.
I will note that I did guess who the culprit was and who I thought was involved but I thoroughly enjoyed reading how it all came about.
Loved it! I’m a huge fan of crime thriller books and happy to add this to one of my favourite reads of the year.
Jesse an ER nurse has a very busy night when two people - husband and wife - get rushed in after being shot. The husband an up and coming political hotshot makes the shooting front page news. Jesse has her thoughts on the crime and whilst working her already stressful and high paced job helps the police with questioning and her views to help solve the crime.
I loved that our main character was an ER nurse and that we get the story from her perspective and not so much from the normal police detective side. The glimpse we get into the busy hospital environment was good to read also.
I did find some of Jesse’s personal choices questionable but no one is perfect. The interaction between herself and her elderly neighbour I found endearing and hope to read more between the two further in the series. I feel that this book is very nicely set up for the future books and there is plenty more that I want to read about Jesse.
I will note that I did guess who the culprit was and who I thought was involved but I thoroughly enjoyed reading how it all came about.
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