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Charlotte Winters #2
Girl Under Water
Her numb fingers scrabble over upholstery, over metal, over glass, searching for a way out. Water stings her eyes as she’s dragged downward, clinging to her last breath as she’s absorbed into the cold dark below…
When Gloria Carmichael’s body is found broken and bleeding on the sidewalk just days after knocking on Detective Charlie Winters’ door begging for help to locate her father’s will, Charlie’s instinct is confirmed: her latest case is about more than just a simple family feud.
The Carmichaels are famous in Salem Island for their large family and charitable work, but, moments before she died, beautiful, trustworthy eldest daughter Gloria called Charlie to say she had uncovered a terrible secret that would break the mystery of her father’s death wide open.
With the voice of her murdered sister ringing in her ears—pushing her to risk everything to bring justice to the innocent—Charlie takes matters into her own hands. She won’t let another family break apart like her own, and she knows the answers she needs are hidden somewhere inside the Carmichael home.
But as Charlie races to confront her main suspect—a file containing evidence that will devastate the Carmichael family on the car seat beside her—she’s rammed off the road and over the edge of a nearby cliff. Fighting for breath in a sinking car, Charlie has to survive or other innocent lives will be taken. Everyone involved is keeping secrets, but only one twisted soul is prepared to kill to keep theirs…
An addictive crime thriller with twists at every turn, you won’t know what hit you after you’ve finished Girl Under Water. A perfect read-in-one-sitting rollercoaster ride for anyone who adores Angela Marsons, Robert Dugoni and Mary Burton.
Everyone is talking about L.T. Vargus and Tim McBain:
‘Leaves you on the edge of your seat until the wee hours of the morning. Kept me enthralled from cover to cover. Heart-stopping suspense.’ Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars
‘A great start to a new series. It is a true page-turner and I was truly blind-sided by the reveal. Lots of potential and promise in this series.’ Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars
‘Wow… This is so much better than the majority of crime books out there. Suspenseful, engrossing… All of the characters are believable… I want to read the next one please pretty please.’ Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars
‘Stylish, taut and addictive… One of the masterpieces of 2020… I was drawn in from the very first word… kept me hooked until I read its wonderful and satisfying ending. I completed it in one night.’ NetGalley reviewer, 5 stars
‘Stayed up far too late devouring this absolutely gripping and unputdownable crime thriller… I absolutely cannot wait to read more… kept on the edge of my seat… there's absolutely no way I could've predicted where this was going. This is extremely well-written and fast-paced… completely addicted to this book. A definite five star read.’ Little Miss Book Lover 87, 5 stars
When Gloria Carmichael’s body is found broken and bleeding on the sidewalk just days after knocking on Detective Charlie Winters’ door begging for help to locate her father’s will, Charlie’s instinct is confirmed: her latest case is about more than just a simple family feud.
The Carmichaels are famous in Salem Island for their large family and charitable work, but, moments before she died, beautiful, trustworthy eldest daughter Gloria called Charlie to say she had uncovered a terrible secret that would break the mystery of her father’s death wide open.
With the voice of her murdered sister ringing in her ears—pushing her to risk everything to bring justice to the innocent—Charlie takes matters into her own hands. She won’t let another family break apart like her own, and she knows the answers she needs are hidden somewhere inside the Carmichael home.
But as Charlie races to confront her main suspect—a file containing evidence that will devastate the Carmichael family on the car seat beside her—she’s rammed off the road and over the edge of a nearby cliff. Fighting for breath in a sinking car, Charlie has to survive or other innocent lives will be taken. Everyone involved is keeping secrets, but only one twisted soul is prepared to kill to keep theirs…
An addictive crime thriller with twists at every turn, you won’t know what hit you after you’ve finished Girl Under Water. A perfect read-in-one-sitting rollercoaster ride for anyone who adores Angela Marsons, Robert Dugoni and Mary Burton.
Everyone is talking about L.T. Vargus and Tim McBain:
‘Leaves you on the edge of your seat until the wee hours of the morning. Kept me enthralled from cover to cover. Heart-stopping suspense.’ Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars
‘A great start to a new series. It is a true page-turner and I was truly blind-sided by the reveal. Lots of potential and promise in this series.’ Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars
‘Wow… This is so much better than the majority of crime books out there. Suspenseful, engrossing… All of the characters are believable… I want to read the next one please pretty please.’ Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars
‘Stylish, taut and addictive… One of the masterpieces of 2020… I was drawn in from the very first word… kept me hooked until I read its wonderful and satisfying ending. I completed it in one night.’ NetGalley reviewer, 5 stars
‘Stayed up far too late devouring this absolutely gripping and unputdownable crime thriller… I absolutely cannot wait to read more… kept on the edge of my seat… there's absolutely no way I could've predicted where this was going. This is extremely well-written and fast-paced… completely addicted to this book. A definite five star read.’ Little Miss Book Lover 87, 5 stars
394 pages, Paperback
First published December 14, 2020
747 people are currently reading
3063 people want to read
About the author
L.T. Vargus
52 books1,098 followersLex Vargus is the co-author of over 20 thriller and horror novels.
FIND LEX ON:
Amazon - Twitter - LTVargus.com
BOOKS BY LT VARGUS
The Violet Darger series
The Victor Loshak series
The Charlotte Winters series
FIND LEX ON:
Amazon - Twitter - LTVargus.com
BOOKS BY LT VARGUS
The Violet Darger series
The Victor Loshak series
The Charlotte Winters series
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews
December 18, 2020
I loved Girl Under Water. Charlie Winters is an excellent character. She is driven and will do anything to solve a case. Zoe, Charlie’s best friend is still working in the sheriff’s department and helping out with the case. Zoe worries about Charlie and makes sure she takes care of herself. Charlie also takes care of her mom when needed. Charlie’s assistant, Paige is dealing with family problems that Charlie helps solve. The Carmichaels all have so many secrets and try different things to keep Charlie away. I was constantly wondering what they were hiding and what would be revealed next.
There is so much suspense in Girl Under Water. I kept trying to figure out what I thought happened. Charlie was confused and so was I. There were so many things that didn’t add up. I also was really worried for Charlie throughout the book. The ending was so crazy and a great conclusion to this book.
Thank you Bookouture and NetGalley for Girl Under Water.
Full Review: https://justreadingjess.wordpress.com...
There is so much suspense in Girl Under Water. I kept trying to figure out what I thought happened. Charlie was confused and so was I. There were so many things that didn’t add up. I also was really worried for Charlie throughout the book. The ending was so crazy and a great conclusion to this book.
Thank you Bookouture and NetGalley for Girl Under Water.
Full Review: https://justreadingjess.wordpress.com...
December 19, 2020
Favorite Quotes:
“I mean, you’re not getting any younger…. Those eggs of yours are probably halfway to hardboiled by now.” “That’s not how it works,” Charlie grumbled. “Regardless… what are you waiting for? Your AARP card?”
I hope his corpse is rolling around in his grave knowing I won. Just spinning down there like a rotisserie chicken.
I’m just telling it like it is… Being honest, which is a concept I know you have no comprehension of. Is there a class you have to take when you become a politician that removes your ability to be authentic?
My Review:
Book two in the continuation of my besotted love fest for this clever pair of wordsmiths, I adore their snarky humor and dark thriller murder mysteries. This one was lively, eventful, witty, well-paced, and intense with family drama, patricide, and an added kick of taboo. Oh, my! I am hooked on the main character of Charlie who comes replete with the humorous, argumentative, and observant voice of her dead twin in her head. I deeply resented and hissed at any interruption to my perusal and was reluctant to relinquish my beloved Kindle for those pesky interruptions such as a churlish husband’s demands for sustenance, the need for caffeine infusions, and who needs sleep anyway? The phone and doorbell went unanswered as I have my priorities straight. I am eager to see what comes next from this dastardly duo of scribblers.
“I mean, you’re not getting any younger…. Those eggs of yours are probably halfway to hardboiled by now.” “That’s not how it works,” Charlie grumbled. “Regardless… what are you waiting for? Your AARP card?”
I hope his corpse is rolling around in his grave knowing I won. Just spinning down there like a rotisserie chicken.
I’m just telling it like it is… Being honest, which is a concept I know you have no comprehension of. Is there a class you have to take when you become a politician that removes your ability to be authentic?
My Review:
Book two in the continuation of my besotted love fest for this clever pair of wordsmiths, I adore their snarky humor and dark thriller murder mysteries. This one was lively, eventful, witty, well-paced, and intense with family drama, patricide, and an added kick of taboo. Oh, my! I am hooked on the main character of Charlie who comes replete with the humorous, argumentative, and observant voice of her dead twin in her head. I deeply resented and hissed at any interruption to my perusal and was reluctant to relinquish my beloved Kindle for those pesky interruptions such as a churlish husband’s demands for sustenance, the need for caffeine infusions, and who needs sleep anyway? The phone and doorbell went unanswered as I have my priorities straight. I am eager to see what comes next from this dastardly duo of scribblers.
December 17, 2020
Girl Under Water is the second instalment in the Detective Charlotte ”Charlie” Winters series, set in Salem Island, Michigan. It begins with an intense prologue featuring seventy-seven-year-old founder of wildly successful hedge fund, Carmichael Investments, and self-made billionaire Randolph ”Dutch” Carmichael and an unnamed relative seemingly patching things up and agreeing to let bygones be bygone. They hug it out in Dutch's lavish mansion. He leads the way down to the kitchen, in front of his guest, so they can have a bite to eat, but no sooner has he reached the top of the stairs and he's smashed over the head with a piece of glassware sending him tumbling to the bottom where his motionless body now lay. Private Investigator Charlie Winters arrives at A1 Investigations bright and early on a mid-May morning when a tall blonde wearing Gucci sunglasses walks through the door and introduces herself as the affluent and prominent socialite Gloria Carmichael. Gloria wants to hire Charlie as the police have deemed the death a murder but haven't managed to make any progress with the investigation. She claims to also have found that about four hundred million dollars is missing from her father's estate and his will has vanished. Charlie accepts the case but fails to realise what she is letting herself in for.
Most of Dutch’s supposed loved ones, including Gloria’s four siblings - Brandon, Marjory, Jude and Dara - are more interested in locating his missing millions than finding out what happened to him and who was responsible, which troubles Charlie from the outset. The family members begin to argue and fight between them and in the worst case of sibling rivalry she's ever witnessed she realises she's in the middle of a very nasty and very dangerous situation packed with peril, treachery, secrets and lies. Who is the wolf in sheep’s clothing? This is a compulsive, exciting and entertaining addition to the series and I must admit to adoring Charlie’s late sister, Allie’s witty retorts. It was at Allie’s funeral that her voice had first appeared, beamed into Charlie’s head. She's now used to it and it's one of the most satisfying aspects of the story, allowing the interspersing of no-nonsense humour throughout to break up the dark crimes. They say ”money is the root of all evil,” and that is certainly true in this case of a family at war with one another over inheritance with the murder of their father being a mere afterthought. It's a rapid-fire domestic-based thriller with a plethora of twists, a large suspect pool of those who had motive, means and opportunity and one thing’s for sure they'll gladly kill again if it gets them what they so intensely desire. Highly recommended.
Most of Dutch’s supposed loved ones, including Gloria’s four siblings - Brandon, Marjory, Jude and Dara - are more interested in locating his missing millions than finding out what happened to him and who was responsible, which troubles Charlie from the outset. The family members begin to argue and fight between them and in the worst case of sibling rivalry she's ever witnessed she realises she's in the middle of a very nasty and very dangerous situation packed with peril, treachery, secrets and lies. Who is the wolf in sheep’s clothing? This is a compulsive, exciting and entertaining addition to the series and I must admit to adoring Charlie’s late sister, Allie’s witty retorts. It was at Allie’s funeral that her voice had first appeared, beamed into Charlie’s head. She's now used to it and it's one of the most satisfying aspects of the story, allowing the interspersing of no-nonsense humour throughout to break up the dark crimes. They say ”money is the root of all evil,” and that is certainly true in this case of a family at war with one another over inheritance with the murder of their father being a mere afterthought. It's a rapid-fire domestic-based thriller with a plethora of twists, a large suspect pool of those who had motive, means and opportunity and one thing’s for sure they'll gladly kill again if it gets them what they so intensely desire. Highly recommended.
May 25, 2022
Rodzina, która łamie wszelkie możliwe tabu… Zbrodnia w ekskluzywnej rezydencji, tajemnice pewnej prominentnej rodziny i śledztwo, które wyciągnie wszystkie możliwe brudy na powierzchnię.
Sięgając po „Ona za to zapłaci” warto mieć oczy szeroko otwarte od pierwszej do ostatniej strony. Zresztą, to nie takie trudne, bo duet L.T. Vargus i Tim McBain dobrze wie, jak utrzymywać naszą uwagę, autorzy wiedzą też jak podbijać napięcie do granic wytrzymałości. Tematem powieści są problemy rodzinne w całej swojej osobliwej okazałości. Chodzi przecież o rodzinę legendarnego miliardera, kogoś, kto swoje sekrety trzymał blisko i uczył swoje dzieci, by robiły podobnie. To rodzina, która nie lubiła niepotrzebnego rozgłosu, a której milczenie zapewniały niewyobrażalne sumy pieniędzy. Pieniądze miały być spadkiem, dziedzictwem rodzeństwa, ale też walutą zapewniającą spokój w szeregach. Bez pieniędzy następuje chaos i zniszczenie, ściany milczenia pękają, tama rozsypuje się w pył. A za murem dostrzec można ludzi, którzy potrafią łamać największe możliwe tabu bez mrugnięcia okiem.
Szkoda byłoby tu pominąć postać prywatnej detektyw Charlie Winters. W „Ona już nie wróci” obserwowaliśmy jej powrót na Wyspę Salem, jej zmaganie się z przeszłością, próbę rozwikłania zagadki, która wciąż ciąży jej na sumieniu i obciąża psychikę. W „Ona za to zapłaci”, Charlie poszła naprzód, rozwinęła się jako postać, czytelnicy mogą docenić jej precyzję, pracowitość, ale także oddanie jej własnej poharatanej przez los rodzinie. Wciąż walczy ze swoimi demonami, widać jednak, że na ostateczne rozwiązanie przyjdzie nam jeszcze trochę poczekać. Wisienką na torcie jest natomiast sarkastyczny humor Charlie, jej ironiczne spojrzenie na każdą sytuację oraz… specyficzny głos, który towarzyszy jej na każdym kroku, a który jest częścią jej własnej, osobistej zagadki.
L.T. Vargus i Tim McBain już w „Ona już nie wróci” udowodnili, że stanowią fantastyczny duet, który doskonale potrafi operować suspensem, meandrować intrygą, zaskakując czytelników na każdym kroku. Rozumieją też pogmatwane tajemnice ludzkiej natury i świadomi są tego, jak łatwo można ukryć swój prawdziwy charakter przed całym światem, a nawet przed samym sobą. W „Ona za to zapłaci” podbijają stawki, bawią się też klasycznym motywem kręgu podejrzanych, a robią to tak, że znów na końcu czytelnik znów może poczuć się nabity w butelkę. Ich seria z Charlie Winters to sama przyjemność czytania dla wszystkich miłośników thrillerów, zagadek zbrodni, dobrze skrojonej literatury gatunkowej, po prostu.
Sięgając po „Ona za to zapłaci” warto mieć oczy szeroko otwarte od pierwszej do ostatniej strony. Zresztą, to nie takie trudne, bo duet L.T. Vargus i Tim McBain dobrze wie, jak utrzymywać naszą uwagę, autorzy wiedzą też jak podbijać napięcie do granic wytrzymałości. Tematem powieści są problemy rodzinne w całej swojej osobliwej okazałości. Chodzi przecież o rodzinę legendarnego miliardera, kogoś, kto swoje sekrety trzymał blisko i uczył swoje dzieci, by robiły podobnie. To rodzina, która nie lubiła niepotrzebnego rozgłosu, a której milczenie zapewniały niewyobrażalne sumy pieniędzy. Pieniądze miały być spadkiem, dziedzictwem rodzeństwa, ale też walutą zapewniającą spokój w szeregach. Bez pieniędzy następuje chaos i zniszczenie, ściany milczenia pękają, tama rozsypuje się w pył. A za murem dostrzec można ludzi, którzy potrafią łamać największe możliwe tabu bez mrugnięcia okiem.
Szkoda byłoby tu pominąć postać prywatnej detektyw Charlie Winters. W „Ona już nie wróci” obserwowaliśmy jej powrót na Wyspę Salem, jej zmaganie się z przeszłością, próbę rozwikłania zagadki, która wciąż ciąży jej na sumieniu i obciąża psychikę. W „Ona za to zapłaci”, Charlie poszła naprzód, rozwinęła się jako postać, czytelnicy mogą docenić jej precyzję, pracowitość, ale także oddanie jej własnej poharatanej przez los rodzinie. Wciąż walczy ze swoimi demonami, widać jednak, że na ostateczne rozwiązanie przyjdzie nam jeszcze trochę poczekać. Wisienką na torcie jest natomiast sarkastyczny humor Charlie, jej ironiczne spojrzenie na każdą sytuację oraz… specyficzny głos, który towarzyszy jej na każdym kroku, a który jest częścią jej własnej, osobistej zagadki.
L.T. Vargus i Tim McBain już w „Ona już nie wróci” udowodnili, że stanowią fantastyczny duet, który doskonale potrafi operować suspensem, meandrować intrygą, zaskakując czytelników na każdym kroku. Rozumieją też pogmatwane tajemnice ludzkiej natury i świadomi są tego, jak łatwo można ukryć swój prawdziwy charakter przed całym światem, a nawet przed samym sobą. W „Ona za to zapłaci” podbijają stawki, bawią się też klasycznym motywem kręgu podejrzanych, a robią to tak, że znów na końcu czytelnik znów może poczuć się nabity w butelkę. Ich seria z Charlie Winters to sama przyjemność czytania dla wszystkich miłośników thrillerów, zagadek zbrodni, dobrze skrojonej literatury gatunkowej, po prostu.
December 8, 2020
A straightforward case it appeared to be when a socialite asked the private investigator to search for her father’s will and find his millions. The other relatives didn’t seem quite so keen as there were a few of the family secrets. But when the socialite too was found dead, all bets were off. Charlie went investigating.
I was tired of reading police procedural, so reading a murder mystery from the POV of a PI was a breath of fresh air. She was bold and brassy and treaded where men rarely did. The voice of her dead twin egged her on, supernatural or delusion was anyone’s guess. The banter between the sisters was humorous and sarcastic and gave me some fun moments.
The lies and secrets made the path to get to the truth quite twisty for Charlie. I liked how she applied herself to each moment, trying to get to the killer before another murder. The story had its highs and lows which added to the confusion of the plotline. Action was written in and had me flipping pages to reach to the conclusion.
Quite a fun read, a true murder investigation with suspense and family drama.
I was tired of reading police procedural, so reading a murder mystery from the POV of a PI was a breath of fresh air. She was bold and brassy and treaded where men rarely did. The voice of her dead twin egged her on, supernatural or delusion was anyone’s guess. The banter between the sisters was humorous and sarcastic and gave me some fun moments.
The lies and secrets made the path to get to the truth quite twisty for Charlie. I liked how she applied herself to each moment, trying to get to the killer before another murder. The story had its highs and lows which added to the confusion of the plotline. Action was written in and had me flipping pages to reach to the conclusion.
Quite a fun read, a true murder investigation with suspense and family drama.
Read
December 18, 2020Two murders. A missing fortune. And Salem Island's wealthiest family is at the heart of it all.
Detective Charlie Winters is on the case, and she's about to find out that some people will kill to keep their secrets hidden.
Get your copy of Girl Under Water , the newest Charlotte Winters thriller on:
Amazon: http://mybook.to/girlunderwater
Apple: https://books.apple.com/us/book/girl-...
Kobo: https://kobo.com/us/en/ebook/girl-und...
Google: http://bit.ly/girlunderwater
Paperback: http://mybook.to/girlunderwater
Audible (US): http://zpr.io/Hcfjz
Audible (UK): http://zpr.io/Hcfj7
Detective Charlie Winters is on the case, and she's about to find out that some people will kill to keep their secrets hidden.
Get your copy of Girl Under Water , the newest Charlotte Winters thriller on:
Amazon: http://mybook.to/girlunderwater
Apple: https://books.apple.com/us/book/girl-...
Kobo: https://kobo.com/us/en/ebook/girl-und...
Google: http://bit.ly/girlunderwater
Paperback: http://mybook.to/girlunderwater
Audible (US): http://zpr.io/Hcfjz
Audible (UK): http://zpr.io/Hcfj7
January 2, 2021
When Randolph "Dutch" Carmichael, billionaire of Salem Island, is found dead at the bottom of his mansion's stairway, his six adult children decide to hire Private Investigator Charlotte Winters to find out who murdered him. The usual motive is, of course, money in these cases, but soon Charlie finds out that there is a lot more going on than greed. NO SPOILERS.
This is my first read of 2021 and I found it fast-paced and entertaining with a twist that surprised me despite my best guesses. I had read the first book in this series and was hoping this installment would make me a bit more attached to Charlie, but I still find myself incredibly annoyed with the voice of her murdered twin sister Allie interjecting comments throughout the narrative. I did like the plot of this more than the previous installment, so I may give future books a go. The overly long dramatic climax on the water could have been edited down and what is it with these women getting so beat up on all the time? Seemed to me like Charlie should have required hospitalization! But, I did enjoy it.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for this e-book ARC to read and review.
This is my first read of 2021 and I found it fast-paced and entertaining with a twist that surprised me despite my best guesses. I had read the first book in this series and was hoping this installment would make me a bit more attached to Charlie, but I still find myself incredibly annoyed with the voice of her murdered twin sister Allie interjecting comments throughout the narrative. I did like the plot of this more than the previous installment, so I may give future books a go. The overly long dramatic climax on the water could have been edited down and what is it with these women getting so beat up on all the time? Seemed to me like Charlie should have required hospitalization! But, I did enjoy it.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for this e-book ARC to read and review.
October 29, 2020
Suspenseful and Intriguing.
I really enjoy this read great follow up to the first book in the series as we get to know Charlie more she is hired by Gloria Carmichael to investigate missing millions find a will and learn who is a killer.
As she interviewed each of the Carmichael siblings she realize they each has secrets that may be connected but what she does see is that each of them aren’t that worried about solving the case. When Gloria finds out a terrible secret that can destroy her family she tells Charlie before she died. Will Charlie be able to stop the killer before they kill again and will the secret she knows destroy this family as she fights for her life. I do feel some parts felt unfinished maybe they’ll be address in the next book.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.
I really enjoy this read great follow up to the first book in the series as we get to know Charlie more she is hired by Gloria Carmichael to investigate missing millions find a will and learn who is a killer.
As she interviewed each of the Carmichael siblings she realize they each has secrets that may be connected but what she does see is that each of them aren’t that worried about solving the case. When Gloria finds out a terrible secret that can destroy her family she tells Charlie before she died. Will Charlie be able to stop the killer before they kill again and will the secret she knows destroy this family as she fights for her life. I do feel some parts felt unfinished maybe they’ll be address in the next book.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.
November 15, 2020
I haven't read the first book in the series, First Girl Gone yet, but after reading this second one, I'm looking forward it because there are many great things that I need answers to.
The story is full of suspenseful twists and turns that kept me glued to my kindle because I love a great family drama when that family is rich and famous and they are all about the millions and how to always look the part when in reality it's nothing like that.
It's a fast paced read, with many characters that have a special effect in the story and bring all the suspense in the who and why murdered Dutch.
Everyone has a secret and a motive to hide something and the author manages to write an interesting story overall about power, revenge and greediness.
The story is full of suspenseful twists and turns that kept me glued to my kindle because I love a great family drama when that family is rich and famous and they are all about the millions and how to always look the part when in reality it's nothing like that.
It's a fast paced read, with many characters that have a special effect in the story and bring all the suspense in the who and why murdered Dutch.
Everyone has a secret and a motive to hide something and the author manages to write an interesting story overall about power, revenge and greediness.
November 13, 2020
Great follow up to First Girl Gone. Charlie (and Allie) are back trying to solve a series of murders revolving around deceased billionaire Dutch Carmichael. Lots of twists and turns and some unexpected surprises. Nicely paced with alot of action. Hopefully another book will be released. Until then Im heading back to finish the Victor Loshak series ;)
DISCLOSURE: I received a pre-release copy from NetGalley. This did not influence my review. I really do love these authors.
DISCLOSURE: I received a pre-release copy from NetGalley. This did not influence my review. I really do love these authors.
October 19, 2023
I would like to thank Netgalley and Bookouture for an advance copy of Girl under Water, the second novel to feature PI Charlie Winters, set in Salem Island, Michigan.
After the success of her last case (see First Girl Gone) Charlie is asked by wealthy socialite Gloria Carmichael to look into her father “Dutch”’s death and find his will and missing millions. Her siblings aren’t overly enthusiastic about a stranger poking about the family secrets, even more so when Gloria is killed before revealing one of them.
I enjoyed Girl under Water which is a high octane read with plenty of action, deaths and secrets, some more credible than others, but which still add to the readability. It is told from Charlie’s point of view so the reader knows what she knows and is able to get immersed in the read. It is fairly standard fare with one revelation leading to another, a few twists thrown in for confusion and an action packed conclusion. It is, however, well done and had me turning the pages to see what was coming next. I would never have guessed what Charlie found out.
The novel revolves around Charlie and she’s a great character. She is smart, strong and, at times, sassy although her twin sister, Allie, gets the best lines. To be clear, Allie disappeared twenty years ago but keeps up a running commentary on events. It is up to the reader to decide whether it is a supernatural thing or Charlie’s way of coping. Whichever, her sarcasm is amusing.
Girl under Water is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
After the success of her last case (see First Girl Gone) Charlie is asked by wealthy socialite Gloria Carmichael to look into her father “Dutch”’s death and find his will and missing millions. Her siblings aren’t overly enthusiastic about a stranger poking about the family secrets, even more so when Gloria is killed before revealing one of them.
I enjoyed Girl under Water which is a high octane read with plenty of action, deaths and secrets, some more credible than others, but which still add to the readability. It is told from Charlie’s point of view so the reader knows what she knows and is able to get immersed in the read. It is fairly standard fare with one revelation leading to another, a few twists thrown in for confusion and an action packed conclusion. It is, however, well done and had me turning the pages to see what was coming next. I would never have guessed what Charlie found out.
The novel revolves around Charlie and she’s a great character. She is smart, strong and, at times, sassy although her twin sister, Allie, gets the best lines. To be clear, Allie disappeared twenty years ago but keeps up a running commentary on events. It is up to the reader to decide whether it is a supernatural thing or Charlie’s way of coping. Whichever, her sarcasm is amusing.
Girl under Water is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
December 13, 2020
Girl Under Water by L.T. Vargus and Tim McBain is a highly recommended investigative whodunit.
After her wealthy father, Dutch Carmichael's death is determined to be murder, his daughter Gloria Carmichael, as the executor of the estate, hires Charlie Winters to investigate her father's death. She can't find a will and it appears that millions of dollars from the estate are missing, as well as some art work. Her four siblings, Brandon, Marjory, Jude, and Dara, aren't thrilled with someone looking into the family's secrets, but they appear to be cooperating as Charlie begins her investigation. Then Gloria calls because she has uncovered some information that she wants to discuss with Charlie immediately and is coming right over to her office. Gloria is killed in a hit and run right in front of Charlie's office and it seems that her death may be tied to her father's death. Charlie's determined to discover the truth, but this could put her life in danger.
The plot takes off at a good pace and it is interesting as Charlie meets all the Carmichael siblings. Obviously one of them is probably guilty, but it seems that all of them may be suspects, might have a motive, and likely have secrets. Charlie has to make her way through the misinformation and distracting sibling dynamics between all of them to try and piece together what likely happened. She also has to get creative to track down Dutch's long-time mistress/girlfriend and discover what she has to say. Once the novel introduces all the players, it starts to pick up speed, with twists and turns along the way and is un-put-downable.
Charlie is an interesting character, both intelligent and intuitive. Charlie also hears the voice of her murdered twin sister Allie in her head. (Allie was murdered twenty years ago.) Allie and Charlie keep up a running dialogue between them, although much of it consists of quips and sarcastic comments from Allie with Charlie replying. I need to say right from the start that I found Allie's voice to be intrusive and distracting, and for me it detracted from the actual investigation. I had to actually concentrate on setting her voice aside so it didn't keep diverting my attention from the actual plot. For me it would have worked better to make Allie an actual real sidekick helping with the investigation rather than a disembodied voice.
Disclosure: My review copy was courtesy of Bookouture.
http://www.shetreadssoftly.com/2020/1...
After her wealthy father, Dutch Carmichael's death is determined to be murder, his daughter Gloria Carmichael, as the executor of the estate, hires Charlie Winters to investigate her father's death. She can't find a will and it appears that millions of dollars from the estate are missing, as well as some art work. Her four siblings, Brandon, Marjory, Jude, and Dara, aren't thrilled with someone looking into the family's secrets, but they appear to be cooperating as Charlie begins her investigation. Then Gloria calls because she has uncovered some information that she wants to discuss with Charlie immediately and is coming right over to her office. Gloria is killed in a hit and run right in front of Charlie's office and it seems that her death may be tied to her father's death. Charlie's determined to discover the truth, but this could put her life in danger.
The plot takes off at a good pace and it is interesting as Charlie meets all the Carmichael siblings. Obviously one of them is probably guilty, but it seems that all of them may be suspects, might have a motive, and likely have secrets. Charlie has to make her way through the misinformation and distracting sibling dynamics between all of them to try and piece together what likely happened. She also has to get creative to track down Dutch's long-time mistress/girlfriend and discover what she has to say. Once the novel introduces all the players, it starts to pick up speed, with twists and turns along the way and is un-put-downable.
Charlie is an interesting character, both intelligent and intuitive. Charlie also hears the voice of her murdered twin sister Allie in her head. (Allie was murdered twenty years ago.) Allie and Charlie keep up a running dialogue between them, although much of it consists of quips and sarcastic comments from Allie with Charlie replying. I need to say right from the start that I found Allie's voice to be intrusive and distracting, and for me it detracted from the actual investigation. I had to actually concentrate on setting her voice aside so it didn't keep diverting my attention from the actual plot. For me it would have worked better to make Allie an actual real sidekick helping with the investigation rather than a disembodied voice.
Disclosure: My review copy was courtesy of Bookouture.
http://www.shetreadssoftly.com/2020/1...
December 17, 2020
REVIEW
Girl Under Water by L.T. Vargus
Detective Charlotte Winters #2
Charlie Winters has a new assistant and a new case. She is hoping her uncle Frank will get good feedback from his oncologist and is eager to find a good way to care for her mother while she works in her uncle’s place at A1 Investigations. Meeting Charlie in book one I found the conversations she had with her sister, missing twenty years and presumed dead, interesting. I just reviewed my previous review and was reminded that Charlie left a job elsewhere to return too Michigan and was conflicted about that move. As in book one, the prologue sets the stage for the case Charlie will be working on and within the first chapter or so we meet the main characters and potential killer.
What I liked:
* Charlie: seemed intelligent, focused, and a good person. She cared about her mother and uncle and…heard the voice of her long gone sister.
* Frank: didn’t see much of him but did like Charlie’s uncle and hope to se more of him in book three.
* The way the story was presented…the time line and slow presentation of tidbits was intriguing
* Who Charlie called on for assistance – would like to hear more about Zoe, Mason and Paige in future books
* That it is set in Michigan
* The way Charlie pursued the case
* That I was not sure who the killer was till near the end – and then there was a twist
* The other twist, or two, or more…hmm…
* That the killer was revealed and dealt with
* knowing there will be another book to look forward to and hoping to learn more about the cast of characters in book three.
What I didn’t like:
* Knowing that family dynamics can be “bad” and that dysfunctional families exist as they did in this book.
* The lengths some of the characters went to for the reasons they thought were justifiable
* Having to wait to read book three…am curious.
Did I like this book? Yes
Would I read more in this series? Yes
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC – This is my honest review.
4-5 Stars
Girl Under Water by L.T. Vargus
Detective Charlotte Winters #2
Charlie Winters has a new assistant and a new case. She is hoping her uncle Frank will get good feedback from his oncologist and is eager to find a good way to care for her mother while she works in her uncle’s place at A1 Investigations. Meeting Charlie in book one I found the conversations she had with her sister, missing twenty years and presumed dead, interesting. I just reviewed my previous review and was reminded that Charlie left a job elsewhere to return too Michigan and was conflicted about that move. As in book one, the prologue sets the stage for the case Charlie will be working on and within the first chapter or so we meet the main characters and potential killer.
What I liked:
* Charlie: seemed intelligent, focused, and a good person. She cared about her mother and uncle and…heard the voice of her long gone sister.
* Frank: didn’t see much of him but did like Charlie’s uncle and hope to se more of him in book three.
* The way the story was presented…the time line and slow presentation of tidbits was intriguing
* Who Charlie called on for assistance – would like to hear more about Zoe, Mason and Paige in future books
* That it is set in Michigan
* The way Charlie pursued the case
* That I was not sure who the killer was till near the end – and then there was a twist
* The other twist, or two, or more…hmm…
* That the killer was revealed and dealt with
* knowing there will be another book to look forward to and hoping to learn more about the cast of characters in book three.
What I didn’t like:
* Knowing that family dynamics can be “bad” and that dysfunctional families exist as they did in this book.
* The lengths some of the characters went to for the reasons they thought were justifiable
* Having to wait to read book three…am curious.
Did I like this book? Yes
Would I read more in this series? Yes
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC – This is my honest review.
4-5 Stars
December 19, 2020
Private Investigator Charlotte (Charlie) Winters never expected to be returning home to Salem Island, Michigan, but she came back to look after her uncle’s PI business, A1 Investigations, after he became ill. When Gloria Carmichael requests her help with locating her father’s will, Charlie is keen to help in any way she can. Later, Gloria’s dead body is found following the uncovering of a terrible secret that would break the mystery of her father’s death wide open. Charlie's own sister, Allie, was abducted from the small town when they were teenagers and ever since Charlie has heard her sister's voice in her head. Charlie is determined to grab the opportunity to bring justice to the innocent as she won’t let another family break apart like her own, even if it means putting herself in grave danger and risking everything.
In this second book of an exciting series, the reader meets Charlie who realises she's in the middle of a nasty, perilous situation of treachery, menace, secrets and lies. I liked Charlie’s character who was smart, a bit of a loner and she made a great lead. This was my second book by LT Vargus and Tim McBain and together they made a good team. I connected with the writing style and I liked the sharp dialogue throughout. The inclusion of the late Allie and her witticisms, whose voice Charlie could hear made the story all the greater.
The plot was well thought-out and I enjoyed the progression to the surprising, crazy reveal. This novel - Girl Under Water - was as good as the first in the series - First Girl Gone. Entertaining and attention-grabbing throughout, it will be extremely interesting to see what LT Vargus and Tim McBain have in store for Charlie in the next instalment. Overall, a fantastic continuation of a very promising series that I have no hesitation in recommending.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Bookouture via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
In this second book of an exciting series, the reader meets Charlie who realises she's in the middle of a nasty, perilous situation of treachery, menace, secrets and lies. I liked Charlie’s character who was smart, a bit of a loner and she made a great lead. This was my second book by LT Vargus and Tim McBain and together they made a good team. I connected with the writing style and I liked the sharp dialogue throughout. The inclusion of the late Allie and her witticisms, whose voice Charlie could hear made the story all the greater.
The plot was well thought-out and I enjoyed the progression to the surprising, crazy reveal. This novel - Girl Under Water - was as good as the first in the series - First Girl Gone. Entertaining and attention-grabbing throughout, it will be extremely interesting to see what LT Vargus and Tim McBain have in store for Charlie in the next instalment. Overall, a fantastic continuation of a very promising series that I have no hesitation in recommending.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Bookouture via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
February 15, 2021
Girl under Water is the second book in the Private Investigator Charlotte Winters series. It begins with a chilling prologue that ends with the murder of a business mogul in his mansion. The seemingly obvious motive for the murder is money or perhaps greed…or both. With 5 children and a mistress set to benefit from an inheritance, there are plenty of suspects. The pool of suspects further widens with the reveal of more secrets about the Dutch’s life.
Once again, I had a great time following Charlotte as she investigated the case with her sister, Allie, who actually lives in her head. I was so curious about the Dutch’s death and couldn’t stop changing my mind about the suspects. The reveal was a shock because the baddie turned to be the one person who I never suspected. In addition, the answers were not as straightforward, there was a lot more going on that I never could have guessed.
My only little niggle with this series is the role that the PI plays. You know those action movies where the hero saves the day and just as dust settles, we hear the sirens and suddenly the police arrive? I had a hard time trying to figure out what the police were doing as they seemed always a step behind the PI. At some point, they even let her chase new leads and only ask to be kept updated. They also relied on her to get them answers. This dynamic is a bit odd for me. However, it still doesn’t take away my love for this series.
This is a captivating, well-paced, entertaining addition to the series. With a likeable MC, twisted case, family secrets and a large suspect pool, I was hooked from the first to the last page.
Once again, I had a great time following Charlotte as she investigated the case with her sister, Allie, who actually lives in her head. I was so curious about the Dutch’s death and couldn’t stop changing my mind about the suspects. The reveal was a shock because the baddie turned to be the one person who I never suspected. In addition, the answers were not as straightforward, there was a lot more going on that I never could have guessed.
My only little niggle with this series is the role that the PI plays. You know those action movies where the hero saves the day and just as dust settles, we hear the sirens and suddenly the police arrive? I had a hard time trying to figure out what the police were doing as they seemed always a step behind the PI. At some point, they even let her chase new leads and only ask to be kept updated. They also relied on her to get them answers. This dynamic is a bit odd for me. However, it still doesn’t take away my love for this series.
This is a captivating, well-paced, entertaining addition to the series. With a likeable MC, twisted case, family secrets and a large suspect pool, I was hooked from the first to the last page.
January 2, 2021
Girl Under Water is the second chapter in the Detective Charlie Winters series, set in Salem Island Michigan. It begins with a prologue showing us the 77 year old founder of a successful hedge fund, Carmichael Investments, and self-made billionaire Randolph ”Dutch” Carmichael and one of his relatives seemingly patching things up. They hug it out in Dutch's lavish mansion. Dutch walks in front to lead the way, but no sooner has he reached the top of the stairs when he's smashed over the head and sent tumbling to the bottom where his motionless body now lies. Charlie is hired by Gloria Carmichael as the police have deemed the death a murder but haven't managed to make any progress with the investigation. She claims to also have found that about four hundred million dollars is missing from her fathers estate. Charlie has no clue what she is letting herself in for.
Gloria’s four siblings - Brandon, Marjory, Jude and Dara - are more interested in finding his missing millions than discovering what happened to him and who did it, which troubles Charlie from the start. The family members begin to argue and fight between themselves and Charlie realises she is in the centre of more than she first thought.
I loved Charlie's twin in her head, she provided quite a few funny moments for me throughout. A thriller based around a family that are all more concerned with the inheritance than who actually killed their father. There a quite a number of suspects that had the means, motive and even the opportunity and Charlie knows she needs to find who it is before they strike again.
I started to read and before I knew it I was knee deep in the investigation with Charlie. An absorbing story that had just the right pace for me and I am looking forward to another book with Charlie Winters.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the copy of the book to give you my thoughts today.
Gloria’s four siblings - Brandon, Marjory, Jude and Dara - are more interested in finding his missing millions than discovering what happened to him and who did it, which troubles Charlie from the start. The family members begin to argue and fight between themselves and Charlie realises she is in the centre of more than she first thought.
I loved Charlie's twin in her head, she provided quite a few funny moments for me throughout. A thriller based around a family that are all more concerned with the inheritance than who actually killed their father. There a quite a number of suspects that had the means, motive and even the opportunity and Charlie knows she needs to find who it is before they strike again.
I started to read and before I knew it I was knee deep in the investigation with Charlie. An absorbing story that had just the right pace for me and I am looking forward to another book with Charlie Winters.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the copy of the book to give you my thoughts today.
December 18, 2020
My review could have been “Had a lot of fun, go and buy it” but as this post is for a blog tour I think I must write something more.
I loved the first book in this series and I was wondering if the second one would as good as the first.
I had high expectations and I’m happy I wasn’t disappointed.
This series is becoming a favorite as I love Charlotte, her dialogues with the dead sister, and her complex family dynamics.
She’s a complex character, damaged and strong at the same time. An excellent detective as she’s able to see what other can’t see.
This book is a page turner that kept me reading till late in the night and it was sort of “just one more chapter”.
It’s fast paced, gripping and highly entertaining. There’s a lot of humor and there are some heartbreaking moments.
The mystery is full of twists and turns. A dysfunctional family, greed, secrets. It reminded me of some darker Golden Age mystery: everyone can be the culprit and you don’t know what the next twist will be.
An excellent story that I strongly recommend.
Many thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
I loved the first book in this series and I was wondering if the second one would as good as the first.
I had high expectations and I’m happy I wasn’t disappointed.
This series is becoming a favorite as I love Charlotte, her dialogues with the dead sister, and her complex family dynamics.
She’s a complex character, damaged and strong at the same time. An excellent detective as she’s able to see what other can’t see.
This book is a page turner that kept me reading till late in the night and it was sort of “just one more chapter”.
It’s fast paced, gripping and highly entertaining. There’s a lot of humor and there are some heartbreaking moments.
The mystery is full of twists and turns. A dysfunctional family, greed, secrets. It reminded me of some darker Golden Age mystery: everyone can be the culprit and you don’t know what the next twist will be.
An excellent story that I strongly recommend.
Many thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
November 10, 2020
I enjoyed the first book in this series, but, wow! This is even better. It can be read as a standalone but I’d highly recommend you read the first book as it sets the scene so well for Charlie Winters as a PI and her sister, Allie, who has been missing for a number of years and whose voice she hears every day. It’s a fabulous voice too, full of inappropriate phrases and their relationship, albeit odd, is a critical element of this book.
An incredibly rich man has been found murdered and Charlie takes the case. It appears, right from the off that there are many secrets in the family and as Charlie progresses her investigation much is slowly revealed. Then there is her private life, she is continuing to grieve for her missing sister, her uncle, Frank, has cancer and her mother is a challenge, but, all is handled with humour and this is an interesting second book in a series I’m keen to follow.
Many thanks to NetGalley and BookOutre for the opportunity to preview and congratulations to the authors.
An incredibly rich man has been found murdered and Charlie takes the case. It appears, right from the off that there are many secrets in the family and as Charlie progresses her investigation much is slowly revealed. Then there is her private life, she is continuing to grieve for her missing sister, her uncle, Frank, has cancer and her mother is a challenge, but, all is handled with humour and this is an interesting second book in a series I’m keen to follow.
Many thanks to NetGalley and BookOutre for the opportunity to preview and congratulations to the authors.
November 9, 2020
This is a terrific follow up to book one and it was so good to be back with Charlie and Frank in what is fast becoming another favourite series of mine these are characters that are so likeable and that really makes for an added bonus in the read.The way the book is written is so well done especially the rapport that goes on in Charlie’s head between her and Allie her missing sister and it made me laugh quite a number of times due to Allie’s wicked sense of humour.
Charlie is brought into a new case of a suspected murder and missing money of the wealthy patriarch of the Carmichael family and it was a thrill a minute ride which left me guessing right to the conclusion it was a well thought out plot line and interesting.
So great writing, brilliant plot and and plenty more in a read that I totally loved and can highly recommend, I look forward to reading the next in the series.
My thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for giving me the chance to read the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
Charlie is brought into a new case of a suspected murder and missing money of the wealthy patriarch of the Carmichael family and it was a thrill a minute ride which left me guessing right to the conclusion it was a well thought out plot line and interesting.
So great writing, brilliant plot and and plenty more in a read that I totally loved and can highly recommend, I look forward to reading the next in the series.
My thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for giving me the chance to read the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
September 5, 2022
The second in the Charlie Winters series focuses on Charlie being asked to investigate the death of a local billionaire. Soon she is entangled in a hugely dysfunctional family feud, with each member having a reason for wanting the inheritance they presume would come from their father’s demise. A further murder within the family further complicates the picture before a son-in-law of the original victim points Charlie to the existence of his soon-to-be-ex-wife’s journal, an entry in which leads to the final bloody denouement on Lake Huron. As ever Charlie hears the voice of her murdered teenage twin, Allie, whose sarcastic wit provides a nice touch of humour whilst also allowing Charlie to marshal her thoughts. In a well trodden allegory that money can’t buy happiness, Vargus and McBain have delivered another entertaining tale, that is very far removed from their post apocalyptic work, but no less entertaining. Reading First Girl Gone, the first of this series, before this is recommended.
October 30, 2020
A fantastic follow-up to book 1. This one kept me guessing right up until the end. There were so many possiblities on who the killer could be and they all had valid reasons. My only complaint is I feel like a couple of the story lines were left unfinished - I felt like they were just left hanging without a conclusion. (Won't share because of spoilers). Other than that -- definitely recommend!!!
It could be read as a stand-alone but I prefer to read series in order.
Thank you #netgalley and #bookouture for the eARC.
It could be read as a stand-alone but I prefer to read series in order.
Thank you #netgalley and #bookouture for the eARC.
November 2, 2020
Girl Under Water by LT Vargus and Tim McBain is the second book in the Charlotte Winters, PI series. Charlotte/Charlie Winters is running A1 Investigations while her Uncle Frank is recovering from cancer treatments. Charlie has recently received attention for the previous Kara Dawkins case and one day she is hired for her biggest case yet.
Gloria Carmichael walks in and wants to hire Charlie because her famous father's billions are missing. Her father's death has been ruled as a homicide but the adult children want to find the will and the money. Charlie accepts the case and is soon in the middle of sibling strife, lies, and danger. Charlie is often accompanied by the voice of her twin sister, Allie. Only Charlie is able to hear this voice in her mind, but she finds some comfort in thinking her dead sister is with her. I think Allie's commentary is so amusing!
Charlie gets closer to the answers she needs to solve this case and she ends up under the water more than once. The mysterious red sports car that hit Gloria knocks Charlie's car off the road into the lake before she can get the Carmichael laptop to the police. The case intensifies after Charlie finds Marjory in her own blood, near death.
I won't post spoilers, but the pace never slows and the secrets within this family continue to be revealed.
Publication Date: December 17, 2020
Thank you to NetGalley, the authors, and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Gloria Carmichael walks in and wants to hire Charlie because her famous father's billions are missing. Her father's death has been ruled as a homicide but the adult children want to find the will and the money. Charlie accepts the case and is soon in the middle of sibling strife, lies, and danger. Charlie is often accompanied by the voice of her twin sister, Allie. Only Charlie is able to hear this voice in her mind, but she finds some comfort in thinking her dead sister is with her. I think Allie's commentary is so amusing!
Charlie gets closer to the answers she needs to solve this case and she ends up under the water more than once. The mysterious red sports car that hit Gloria knocks Charlie's car off the road into the lake before she can get the Carmichael laptop to the police. The case intensifies after Charlie finds Marjory in her own blood, near death.
I won't post spoilers, but the pace never slows and the secrets within this family continue to be revealed.
Publication Date: December 17, 2020
Thank you to NetGalley, the authors, and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
January 16, 2021
I was hooked right from the beginning of Girl Under Water. This next chapter of Charlie's story has a Clue-like set-up, where you already know the list of suspects and try to nail down which person is the perpetrator. I had a great time following Charlie's investigation and turning over each clue with her. For me, this book harked back to an older era of detective stories with a modern take! And, as always, Vargus and McBain don't disappoint with the final plot twist. I loved Girl Under Water, and I highly recommend it!
November 15, 2023
2.5 stars
I liked this book better than the first one - except for one, vital thing: It was predictable as heck.
Every twist and turn came a good while after I'd already come to the conclusion it had to be what was up. It made Charlotte seem slow and I sighed when she kept dragging behind me in terms of conclusions and ideas - all the time.
It was a pretty OK listen anyway though. I will probably check out book 3 eventually.
I liked this book better than the first one - except for one, vital thing: It was predictable as heck.
Every twist and turn came a good while after I'd already come to the conclusion it had to be what was up. It made Charlotte seem slow and I sighed when she kept dragging behind me in terms of conclusions and ideas - all the time.
It was a pretty OK listen anyway though. I will probably check out book 3 eventually.
November 11, 2020
First, many thanks to Netgalley, who provided a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I don't believe I have ever read this author before, although the name sounds very familiar.
I completely enjoyed Girl Under Water and Detective Charlotte Winters. This is the second book in the series, but even though there were references to the first, I didn't feel lost having not read it. 4.5 stars, well done. Excellent writing, fast paced and engaging plot. I really enjoyed her conversations with her twin sister, and the whole "and then there was one" feel of the interactions between the Carmichael siblings. And I was wrong on who the killer was, I normally figure that out, so kudos for that as well. I will be reading more by this author!
I completely enjoyed Girl Under Water and Detective Charlotte Winters. This is the second book in the series, but even though there were references to the first, I didn't feel lost having not read it. 4.5 stars, well done. Excellent writing, fast paced and engaging plot. I really enjoyed her conversations with her twin sister, and the whole "and then there was one" feel of the interactions between the Carmichael siblings. And I was wrong on who the killer was, I normally figure that out, so kudos for that as well. I will be reading more by this author!
December 14, 2020
Oh this is a great read that totally had me gripped.
Charlie is asked to help a family find out what happened to their father and where some missing money has gone.
It starts off well with Gloria, but when Charlie meets the rest of the family, she realises they all have their own secrets.
One of the family is killed in a shocking accident that Charlie witnesses, but she doesn’t see the killer.
Bad things then start to happen, one after the after and with Charlie being at the centre of it, her life is soon in danger.
Zoe is on hand to help solve this one but when Charlie is alone with the killer, there’s no-one else to help her, other than herself.
Allie is still in Charlie’s head and adds some humour to the story which I liked.
This is a nail biting crime thriller that well and truly had me hooked.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
Charlie is asked to help a family find out what happened to their father and where some missing money has gone.
It starts off well with Gloria, but when Charlie meets the rest of the family, she realises they all have their own secrets.
One of the family is killed in a shocking accident that Charlie witnesses, but she doesn’t see the killer.
Bad things then start to happen, one after the after and with Charlie being at the centre of it, her life is soon in danger.
Zoe is on hand to help solve this one but when Charlie is alone with the killer, there’s no-one else to help her, other than herself.
Allie is still in Charlie’s head and adds some humour to the story which I liked.
This is a nail biting crime thriller that well and truly had me hooked.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
January 17, 2021
this is a classic murder mystery. there are imposing mansions with sweeping staircases, and they're filled with rich people wearing silk slacks and probably at least one ascot. there is a dead rich guy and a cast of characters who all could have done it. it reminds me of Agatha Christie or Sherlock Holmes, it's everything you want from a murder mystery. horses. family secrets. a dead person and a lot of missing money. everybody has a motive! I actually enjoyed this one even more than the first one, because of the mystery vibe. it's still a crime thriller but I just love the Clue energy.
December 16, 2020
Misty's Corner Review
:
"Girl Under Water” by L.T. Vargus and Tim McBain was quite an enjoyable read! I was sucked right into the distracting world of family drama, greed, and mystery!
I won't waste anyone's time going into the book summary; the book’s blurb/description does a rather fine job of that. While this is book two in a series, it absolutely can be read as a standalone.
’An absolutely unputdownable and gripping crime thriller.’ That tagline sure does stand up to its claims. ”Girl Under Water” was fast-paced and action-packed, filled to the brim with twists and turns - most of which I did not see coming! Those final reveals were both disturbing and jaw-dropping.
Detective Charlotte Winters's character was a nice change of pace. After being contacted to take on a case, she throws herself full force into the investigation, fighting for the truth, and ultimately the lives of all involved as everyone's secrets come sinking down, one by one. I appreciated how this book, this series, is told from a private investigator’s perspective. Additionally, Charlie's scenes with her mother made her character feel realistic, easier to connect to; after all, don't we all struggle with family from time to time? Luckily Charlie’s ongoing mental conversations with her long-deceased twin sister Allie habitually come at just the right time, providing some much-needed comedic relief! Of course, I can't forget to mention Vivien Marley - she was a hoot! You'll see why when you get there!
I'm looking forward to reading the first book in this series, ”First Girl Gone,” and hopefully the next! I'd happily recommend this to my fellow crime thriller fans!
Many thanks to NetGalley, the authors L.T. Vargus & Tim Mcbain, and the publishers at Bookouture for my advanced copy of this ebook and my spot on this Books-On-Tour event!
Thanks for reading!
Misty M. @MistysCornerReviews
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"Girl Under Water” by L.T. Vargus and Tim McBain was quite an enjoyable read! I was sucked right into the distracting world of family drama, greed, and mystery!
I won't waste anyone's time going into the book summary; the book’s blurb/description does a rather fine job of that. While this is book two in a series, it absolutely can be read as a standalone.
’An absolutely unputdownable and gripping crime thriller.’ That tagline sure does stand up to its claims. ”Girl Under Water” was fast-paced and action-packed, filled to the brim with twists and turns - most of which I did not see coming! Those final reveals were both disturbing and jaw-dropping.
Detective Charlotte Winters's character was a nice change of pace. After being contacted to take on a case, she throws herself full force into the investigation, fighting for the truth, and ultimately the lives of all involved as everyone's secrets come sinking down, one by one. I appreciated how this book, this series, is told from a private investigator’s perspective. Additionally, Charlie's scenes with her mother made her character feel realistic, easier to connect to; after all, don't we all struggle with family from time to time? Luckily Charlie’s ongoing mental conversations with her long-deceased twin sister Allie habitually come at just the right time, providing some much-needed comedic relief! Of course, I can't forget to mention Vivien Marley - she was a hoot! You'll see why when you get there!
I'm looking forward to reading the first book in this series, ”First Girl Gone,” and hopefully the next! I'd happily recommend this to my fellow crime thriller fans!
Many thanks to NetGalley, the authors L.T. Vargus & Tim Mcbain, and the publishers at Bookouture for my advanced copy of this ebook and my spot on this Books-On-Tour event!
Thanks for reading!
Misty M. @MistysCornerReviews
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December 17, 2020
This review was originally posted on Star Crossed Reviews I received this book for free from Netgalley 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 my copy of this book via netgalley and for letting me take part in this tour. This is the second book in this series but they could be read as standalones. I really enjoyed the first book so I was excited to see where Charlotte went next.
This book was less personal than the first one. I found the case was for me less interesting. I didn't really care who killed Daddy and took all his money. It just seemed like spoilt rich kids fighting over who got the most money.
I did however really like Charlotte. She is very good at her job and has that gut feeling. I am very excited to see where the series takes her next. She has now had 2 big successes as a private detective so she is definitely going to be getting some really juicy cases coming her way. Charlie also puts her life quite literally on the line. I was very very nervous for her during the book. She gets herself into some really scary situations that I just did not see a way out of.
Charlie's friend Zoe is a favourite character of mine so I hope we see more of her as the series progresses. I also really hope that we eventually find out what happened to Allie.
The book was well written and pulled me in despite not actually caring who did it. The authors have a way of making you forget your surroundings and really feel like you are right there next to the characters. The book is full of suspense and action and I can't wait for more!
This book was less personal than the first one. I found the case was for me less interesting. I didn't really care who killed Daddy and took all his money. It just seemed like spoilt rich kids fighting over who got the most money.
I did however really like Charlotte. She is very good at her job and has that gut feeling. I am very excited to see where the series takes her next. She has now had 2 big successes as a private detective so she is definitely going to be getting some really juicy cases coming her way. Charlie also puts her life quite literally on the line. I was very very nervous for her during the book. She gets herself into some really scary situations that I just did not see a way out of.
Charlie's friend Zoe is a favourite character of mine so I hope we see more of her as the series progresses. I also really hope that we eventually find out what happened to Allie.
The book was well written and pulled me in despite not actually caring who did it. The authors have a way of making you forget your surroundings and really feel like you are right there next to the characters. The book is full of suspense and action and I can't wait for more!
December 19, 2020
Hugely page turning, fascinating crime thriller.
Girl Under Water by LT Vargus and Tim McBain is the second of the PI Charlotte ”Charlie” Winters series, set in Salem Island, Michigan. This is standalone. The entire book is told from Charlie's point of view, POV, which I enjoyed. The tone and sub-genre were to me, cozy, slightly humorous; fun. The voice in Charlie's head of her disappeared, supposed-murdered twin, Allie, adds the humour.
The prologue sets the scene with the grisly murder of the seventy-seven-year-old billionaire Randolph ”Dutch” Carmichael at the hand of someone he knows and trusts, in his mansion.
Dutch's daughter, Gloria, hires Charlie to investigate her father's death and his missing 400 million dollars, as she fears the police have stalled on the case. Charlie's interest is understandably piqued; so she enthusiastically starts her investigation. A minor quibble is that Charlie starts her investigation without any preliminary research, and finds herself constantly corrected by Gloria’s four siblings - Brandon, Marjory, Jude and Dara.
They are also more interested in locating his millions than unearthing the murderer, which raises Charlie's suspicion. Then there is a second murder with Charlie as a witness but with no glimpse of the killer.
Although Charlie's police friend, Zoe, is on hand to help or provide advice from time to time, Charlie is often off interviewing potential murderers on her own. What happened to a PI wingman? As expected, Charlie herself is soon in danger. Who is the girl under water? You'll have to read Girl Under Water to find out. This is a hugely page turning, fascinating crime thriller. I would happily read further books by the authors.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the ARC.
Girl Under Water by LT Vargus and Tim McBain is the second of the PI Charlotte ”Charlie” Winters series, set in Salem Island, Michigan. This is standalone. The entire book is told from Charlie's point of view, POV, which I enjoyed. The tone and sub-genre were to me, cozy, slightly humorous; fun. The voice in Charlie's head of her disappeared, supposed-murdered twin, Allie, adds the humour.
The prologue sets the scene with the grisly murder of the seventy-seven-year-old billionaire Randolph ”Dutch” Carmichael at the hand of someone he knows and trusts, in his mansion.
Dutch's daughter, Gloria, hires Charlie to investigate her father's death and his missing 400 million dollars, as she fears the police have stalled on the case. Charlie's interest is understandably piqued; so she enthusiastically starts her investigation. A minor quibble is that Charlie starts her investigation without any preliminary research, and finds herself constantly corrected by Gloria’s four siblings - Brandon, Marjory, Jude and Dara.
They are also more interested in locating his millions than unearthing the murderer, which raises Charlie's suspicion. Then there is a second murder with Charlie as a witness but with no glimpse of the killer.
Although Charlie's police friend, Zoe, is on hand to help or provide advice from time to time, Charlie is often off interviewing potential murderers on her own. What happened to a PI wingman? As expected, Charlie herself is soon in danger. Who is the girl under water? You'll have to read Girl Under Water to find out. This is a hugely page turning, fascinating crime thriller. I would happily read further books by the authors.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the ARC.
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