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On Call #6
Dissecting Meredith
Since taking over the county coroner’s office, Meredith “Doc” Carter has been working hard to gain the respect of both her peers and local authorities. Reporting the circumstances surrounding the death of a loved one is often a thankless part of her job. Still, those are the easier cases. Random body parts turning up are substantially more troublesome, and when the facts don’t line up Meredith reaches out to entomologist, Casey Shea for answers.
Detective Jay VanDyken has admired Doc from the sidelines. His recent promotion comes with the added benefit of dealing directly with the silver-haired forensic pathologist, an opportunity he doesn’t plan on wasting. The discovery of partial remains have Jay and Meredith working closely together, but breaking down the pieces to build their case is not the only challenge. Their developing relationship has its own share of problems.
Detective Jay VanDyken has admired Doc from the sidelines. His recent promotion comes with the added benefit of dealing directly with the silver-haired forensic pathologist, an opportunity he doesn’t plan on wasting. The discovery of partial remains have Jay and Meredith working closely together, but breaking down the pieces to build their case is not the only challenge. Their developing relationship has its own share of problems.
285 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 9, 2021
239 people are currently reading
338 people want to read
About the author
Freya Barker
82 books1,906 followersUSA Today bestselling author Freya Barker loves writing about ordinary people with extraordinary stories.
Driven to make her books about 'real' people; she creates characters who are perhaps less than perfect, each struggling to find their own slice of happy, but just as deserving of romance, thrills and chills in their lives.
Recipient of the ReadFREE.ly 2019 Best Book We've Read All Year Award for "Covering Ollie, the 2015 RomCon “Reader’s Choice” Award for Best First Book, “Slim To None”, and Finalist for the 2017 Kindle Book Award with “From Dust”, Freya continues to add to her rapidly growing collection of published novels as she spins story after story with an endless supply of bruised and dented characters, vying for attention!
Driven to make her books about 'real' people; she creates characters who are perhaps less than perfect, each struggling to find their own slice of happy, but just as deserving of romance, thrills and chills in their lives.
Recipient of the ReadFREE.ly 2019 Best Book We've Read All Year Award for "Covering Ollie, the 2015 RomCon “Reader’s Choice” Award for Best First Book, “Slim To None”, and Finalist for the 2017 Kindle Book Award with “From Dust”, Freya continues to add to her rapidly growing collection of published novels as she spins story after story with an endless supply of bruised and dented characters, vying for attention!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 183 reviews
March 9, 2021
Check out all of my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
DISSECTING MEREDITH (Police and Fire Operation Alpha Series, On Call Book #6) by Freya Barker is another great addition to the On Call series. Ms. Barker once again delivers an interesting crime investigation, suspense that keeps you turning the pages and a realistic, mature romance. This book is easily read as a standalone, but there is crossover of characters from other books.
Detective Jay VanDyken may be a new detective, but he has been a uniform cop for almost twenty years. Jay was comfortable in his previous position, but decides he needs to move up in the force to be worthy of a silver haired coroner he finds intriguing. The discovery of partial remains allows Jay to work closely with Meredith and he is determined to not only solve the case, but to build a relationship with Meredith.
Meredith Carter is independent, intelligent and has worked hard to gain the respect of her employees and local law enforcement since taking over the Durango Coroner’s Office. She is intrigued by the partial remains and the quiet VanDyken, but she is worried about remaining professional and respected by her peers.
As Meredith investigates the body parts for clues, they pile up and the more she learns, the more danger she is in. Can Jay keep this independent woman safe while working the case and attempting to build a relationship?
I am always excited to get my hands on the latest Freya Barker romantic suspense. The characters are mature and realistically written and I want to be friends with them all. I love Meredith and Jay together! They both are so independent and yet they are perfect together. Their romance grows at a believable pace. Since they have already been eyeing each other for the last few years, their dialogue and romance flows naturally on the page. Add in the suspense of an interesting investigation and good friends from previous books and you have a great read.
I highly recommend this latest On Call romantic suspense and all the books in this series!
DISSECTING MEREDITH (Police and Fire Operation Alpha Series, On Call Book #6) by Freya Barker is another great addition to the On Call series. Ms. Barker once again delivers an interesting crime investigation, suspense that keeps you turning the pages and a realistic, mature romance. This book is easily read as a standalone, but there is crossover of characters from other books.
Detective Jay VanDyken may be a new detective, but he has been a uniform cop for almost twenty years. Jay was comfortable in his previous position, but decides he needs to move up in the force to be worthy of a silver haired coroner he finds intriguing. The discovery of partial remains allows Jay to work closely with Meredith and he is determined to not only solve the case, but to build a relationship with Meredith.
Meredith Carter is independent, intelligent and has worked hard to gain the respect of her employees and local law enforcement since taking over the Durango Coroner’s Office. She is intrigued by the partial remains and the quiet VanDyken, but she is worried about remaining professional and respected by her peers.
As Meredith investigates the body parts for clues, they pile up and the more she learns, the more danger she is in. Can Jay keep this independent woman safe while working the case and attempting to build a relationship?
I am always excited to get my hands on the latest Freya Barker romantic suspense. The characters are mature and realistically written and I want to be friends with them all. I love Meredith and Jay together! They both are so independent and yet they are perfect together. Their romance grows at a believable pace. Since they have already been eyeing each other for the last few years, their dialogue and romance flows naturally on the page. Add in the suspense of an interesting investigation and good friends from previous books and you have a great read.
I highly recommend this latest On Call romantic suspense and all the books in this series!
March 9, 2021
One of the best things about this book and many others from this author is her MC's. They are a bit older, as in their 40's, and much more relatable with common flaws like real people.
Jay is a newly promoted police detective that has a messed up family life he has walked away from. He's quiet but hard working. He doesn't easily open up to people and avoided social gatherings. I had to laugh when he expressed how he tries to come up with excuses not to go, because that is so me. I also loved how he has had his eye on Meredith for a long time and actually tried to better himself for her.
Meredith is not like most heroines. She isn't this beauty queen who has to look perfect. She an independent woman who forces you to accept her as herself or move on. She not emotional, but she us good with people. Her line of work was fascinating. Nothing I would ever want to do, but I did enjoy how much of her job was detective work. It makes you look at that kind of job a bit more respectfully.
As always, I was drawn in immediately to the story and enjoyed the wild ride the author took me on with this couple and the drama that unfolded from their fascinating careers.
Jay is a newly promoted police detective that has a messed up family life he has walked away from. He's quiet but hard working. He doesn't easily open up to people and avoided social gatherings. I had to laugh when he expressed how he tries to come up with excuses not to go, because that is so me. I also loved how he has had his eye on Meredith for a long time and actually tried to better himself for her.
Meredith is not like most heroines. She isn't this beauty queen who has to look perfect. She an independent woman who forces you to accept her as herself or move on. She not emotional, but she us good with people. Her line of work was fascinating. Nothing I would ever want to do, but I did enjoy how much of her job was detective work. It makes you look at that kind of job a bit more respectfully.
As always, I was drawn in immediately to the story and enjoyed the wild ride the author took me on with this couple and the drama that unfolded from their fascinating careers.
March 10, 2021
"Major props go to Freya Barker. Somehow, someway her writing and plotlines get better with each new book. Which is impossible because her books are all amazing!"
~ Goodreads review
"Believable people dealing with not so ordinary circumstances in their jobs. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and count it as another homerun for Freya Barker. I've read few authors who write characters as well as she does."
~ Amazon review
"Once again, Ms. Barker has given us an intriguing and UN-PUT-DOWNABLE story filled to the brim with EVERYTHING I love about her writing!"
~ Unbound Book Reviews
~ Goodreads review
"Believable people dealing with not so ordinary circumstances in their jobs. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and count it as another homerun for Freya Barker. I've read few authors who write characters as well as she does."
~ Amazon review
"Once again, Ms. Barker has given us an intriguing and UN-PUT-DOWNABLE story filled to the brim with EVERYTHING I love about her writing!"
~ Unbound Book Reviews
February 9, 2021
I cannot say enough about how much I love the main characters in this book. Two solitary people, on the brink of middle age, escaping from their past and building new lives, who end up drawn to each other. People who are used to being alone, noticing and being drawn to another loner. Meredith is a wicked smart, independent woman in a job usually done by men. Jay is an introvert, comfortable in his cop job until he notices Meredith. He's patient and bides his time working for the promotion he thinks he needs to be worthy of her. Throw in a rescue dog and an a rescue kitten and you have a great love story. But there's much more to the story when they are caught up in a case that takes some unusual twists an turns and puts them both in danger. The characters are ordinary people, characters that you might know as friends or relatives or neighbors. Believable people dealing with not so ordinary circumstances in their jobs. I thoroughly enjoyed this book an count it as another homerun for Freya Barker. I've read few authors who write characters as well as she does.
February 23, 2021
Jay and Meredith made a great combination! A coroner and a detective? Oh yeah!
The fact that Jay had been watching Meredith for a long time and her presence inspired him to do more with his life had me all in with him. He's a hunky hero with a strong protective streak, a little jealousy, and some possessiveness but he quickly learned what was and was not acceptable with Meredith. And he was willing to do whatever it took, even eat tofu, to win her over.
Meredith was independent and she made herself clear pretty quickly with Jay when he crossed the line. I loved it when she was the one to cross her own line. I’ve never read a book with a coroner as the heroine’s career, and I found it to be intriguing even as it gave me more insight into Meredith’s character.
This is filled with so much drama and suspense! The fact that this couple worked together was great. I loved watching their interactions with each other throughout the various situations as well as those with other characters. This was a book that was impossible to put down once I started.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
The fact that Jay had been watching Meredith for a long time and her presence inspired him to do more with his life had me all in with him. He's a hunky hero with a strong protective streak, a little jealousy, and some possessiveness but he quickly learned what was and was not acceptable with Meredith. And he was willing to do whatever it took, even eat tofu, to win her over.
Meredith was independent and she made herself clear pretty quickly with Jay when he crossed the line. I loved it when she was the one to cross her own line. I’ve never read a book with a coroner as the heroine’s career, and I found it to be intriguing even as it gave me more insight into Meredith’s character.
This is filled with so much drama and suspense! The fact that this couple worked together was great. I loved watching their interactions with each other throughout the various situations as well as those with other characters. This was a book that was impossible to put down once I started.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
March 8, 2021
Once again, Ms. Barker has given us an intriguing and UN-PUT-DOWNABLE story filled to the brim with EVERYTHING I love about her writing! Jay and Meredith are simply PERFECT for one another and getting to their HEA was pure joy!
Meredith is the county coroner (and forensic pathologist) who hasn't had the time or inclination for dating/relationships. She's too busy trying to gain the respect of the men she deals with on a daily basis so her personal life has taken a back seat. When body parts are discovered, the newest detective, Jay, is assigned to the case...and the immediate attraction between these two leaps off the page! Jay has had his eye on Meredith for years but had thought he wasn't "good enough" for her (considering the family he left behind for reasons I won't get into here *spoilers*, it's not surprising at all) so when they are thrown together investigating this case, things become increasingly interesting, to say the least! For Meredith, Jay was an officer she knew of but who wasn't on her radar as anything other than someone she occasionally sees around town. The chemistry between these two is OFF-THE-CHARTS, yet there is a slow-burn feeling at the same time!
The mystery and intrigue in every one of Ms. Barker's On Call books is prominent and is one of the many reasons I ADORE her so much! This is the 6th book in the series, but you can definitely jump into any one of them and not be totally lost! I do recommend that you read them in order, but only because each and every one of these books is a MUST READ and once you start you'll be downloading them ALL!!!! Once again, Freya Barker is one of my Unicorn authors and is unquestionably one of THE BEST Romantic Suspense writers out there!
Meredith is the county coroner (and forensic pathologist) who hasn't had the time or inclination for dating/relationships. She's too busy trying to gain the respect of the men she deals with on a daily basis so her personal life has taken a back seat. When body parts are discovered, the newest detective, Jay, is assigned to the case...and the immediate attraction between these two leaps off the page! Jay has had his eye on Meredith for years but had thought he wasn't "good enough" for her (considering the family he left behind for reasons I won't get into here *spoilers*, it's not surprising at all) so when they are thrown together investigating this case, things become increasingly interesting, to say the least! For Meredith, Jay was an officer she knew of but who wasn't on her radar as anything other than someone she occasionally sees around town. The chemistry between these two is OFF-THE-CHARTS, yet there is a slow-burn feeling at the same time!
The mystery and intrigue in every one of Ms. Barker's On Call books is prominent and is one of the many reasons I ADORE her so much! This is the 6th book in the series, but you can definitely jump into any one of them and not be totally lost! I do recommend that you read them in order, but only because each and every one of these books is a MUST READ and once you start you'll be downloading them ALL!!!! Once again, Freya Barker is one of my Unicorn authors and is unquestionably one of THE BEST Romantic Suspense writers out there!
February 10, 2021
Book Six of the On Call Series by Ms Barker and they just keep getting better and better. Though they are standalone books they are still interconnected and much better if read as a series. Meredith and Jay's story is one that has stuck with me since finishing reading. The fine balance between suspense and romance to draw readers from many directions. I love her attention to detail in the investigation that makes it seem realistic, just like she always does with her characters.
Jay has noticed Meredith since she arrived in Durango, determined to do this job that is often considered a mans job. Her strength and strive has pushed him out of his happy life and driven him to reach for more, feeling he needed to be worthy of her. As his past has shown him to keep his feelings and personal life hidden, it is a struggle to step out and put himself out there. A new investigation bringing the detective and forensic sides together seemed like a great time to stick a toe in the water.
Meredith has worked so hard to get where she is today. Picking up the pieces of her life and making it her own. Living by her own drum and leaving the stereotypes where they belong, flashy purple docs and all. Content to be on her own, with her furry friend to keep her company. But when Jay seems to be larger than life and slowly pushing his way to her, she notices and it might be time to reevaluate her thoughts.
Is this possible connection worth muddying the professional waters? Is she ready to do the love and relationship thing again? Will her heart survive another beatdown? Can he be open and giving in a relationship?
I love that Ms Barker is bringing in some of Ms Stoker's characters to keep the connection alive between those books. But I love even more that she can sneak in little bits from characters in her other series as well. Just enough to draw you to what is next in her world.
*** Advanced copy provided in exchange for an honest review. ***
Jay has noticed Meredith since she arrived in Durango, determined to do this job that is often considered a mans job. Her strength and strive has pushed him out of his happy life and driven him to reach for more, feeling he needed to be worthy of her. As his past has shown him to keep his feelings and personal life hidden, it is a struggle to step out and put himself out there. A new investigation bringing the detective and forensic sides together seemed like a great time to stick a toe in the water.
Meredith has worked so hard to get where she is today. Picking up the pieces of her life and making it her own. Living by her own drum and leaving the stereotypes where they belong, flashy purple docs and all. Content to be on her own, with her furry friend to keep her company. But when Jay seems to be larger than life and slowly pushing his way to her, she notices and it might be time to reevaluate her thoughts.
Is this possible connection worth muddying the professional waters? Is she ready to do the love and relationship thing again? Will her heart survive another beatdown? Can he be open and giving in a relationship?
I love that Ms Barker is bringing in some of Ms Stoker's characters to keep the connection alive between those books. But I love even more that she can sneak in little bits from characters in her other series as well. Just enough to draw you to what is next in her world.
*** Advanced copy provided in exchange for an honest review. ***
February 27, 2021
Dissecting Meredith by Freya Barker
(On Call #6) (Police and Fire: Operation Alpha)
Big smiles…great BIG smiles! Why? I just finished another wonderful story written by an author that has never let me down. I knew before even beginning to read that I will be swept into a world that I wish I could live within 24/7 and not only visit in a book.
What I liked:
* Jay: rookie detective, policeman for over two decades, in town only three years, has had his eye on Meredith since arriving, a nice guy with a backstory that is…intriguing…just as he is. I really liked him and loved him with Meredity.
* Meredith: physician, widow, coroner, forensic pathologist, professional, intelligent, intriguing, intrigued by Jay, animal lover, great person that is perfect for and with Jay.
* The relationship as it develops between Jay and Meredith.
* That this is a romance between two mature people that know what they want and are not afraid to reach out for it.
* The way the crime, police procedural aspects and forensic medicine meshed together so well to build the story.
* That I did not know for sure who the bad guys were…at least not right away. I had a few ideas but was not positive till further along in the story.
* Getting to see some characters from previous books.
* Being given an insight into the type of cases a coroner would have to deal with and the toll it would take on the person doing the autopsies.
* Beau the dog and Belle the kitten…more smiles thinking about the two of them.
* That the two main characters were complex and complete and people I would love to have as friends.
* All of it really except…
What I didn’t like:
* Jay’s family…read the book and you will know why I feel that way.
* The criminals and the crime they were immersed in.
* Being reminded of how “bad” some people truly are.
* Having to wait to find out who will star in the next book this author writes.
Did I enjoy this book? Definitely
Would I read more by this author? Without a doubt!
Thank you to the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
(On Call #6) (Police and Fire: Operation Alpha)
Big smiles…great BIG smiles! Why? I just finished another wonderful story written by an author that has never let me down. I knew before even beginning to read that I will be swept into a world that I wish I could live within 24/7 and not only visit in a book.
What I liked:
* Jay: rookie detective, policeman for over two decades, in town only three years, has had his eye on Meredith since arriving, a nice guy with a backstory that is…intriguing…just as he is. I really liked him and loved him with Meredity.
* Meredith: physician, widow, coroner, forensic pathologist, professional, intelligent, intriguing, intrigued by Jay, animal lover, great person that is perfect for and with Jay.
* The relationship as it develops between Jay and Meredith.
* That this is a romance between two mature people that know what they want and are not afraid to reach out for it.
* The way the crime, police procedural aspects and forensic medicine meshed together so well to build the story.
* That I did not know for sure who the bad guys were…at least not right away. I had a few ideas but was not positive till further along in the story.
* Getting to see some characters from previous books.
* Being given an insight into the type of cases a coroner would have to deal with and the toll it would take on the person doing the autopsies.
* Beau the dog and Belle the kitten…more smiles thinking about the two of them.
* That the two main characters were complex and complete and people I would love to have as friends.
* All of it really except…
What I didn’t like:
* Jay’s family…read the book and you will know why I feel that way.
* The criminals and the crime they were immersed in.
* Being reminded of how “bad” some people truly are.
* Having to wait to find out who will star in the next book this author writes.
Did I enjoy this book? Definitely
Would I read more by this author? Without a doubt!
Thank you to the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
August 26, 2021
Doc was trying to earn the respect of her co-workers. Jay was trying to earn Doc' s trust, Mer, his Merry.
His name was Jay, he was a detective, a detective because if her. She is the beautiful, yet awkward coroner.
There was murders happening everywhere in their town, but the lust between them never tapped down.
Are you ready from crime, met lust, meet protection. It's all here.
His name was Jay, he was a detective, a detective because if her. She is the beautiful, yet awkward coroner.
There was murders happening everywhere in their town, but the lust between them never tapped down.
Are you ready from crime, met lust, meet protection. It's all here.
March 2, 2021
Lucky enough to have had a chance to read an ARC of Dissecting Meredith.
This is fast becoming one of my favourite series of Ms Barkers.
Not only does she deliver the elements that I've come to expect from her writing but in this series the suspense element is just rivetingly fantastic.
You get to revisit with old friends (or if you haven't read her other books then I'm betting you'll be clambering to get your hands on the other characters asap)
Meredith (Doc) is a mature, strong and capable lady, comfortable within her own skin.
Is Jay hot? Absolutely but he is so much more. I adore the fact that whatever characters Ms Barker writes, they are all so layered. You want to keep those pages turning to keep yourself totally immersed in their lives.
This is fast becoming one of my favourite series of Ms Barkers.
Not only does she deliver the elements that I've come to expect from her writing but in this series the suspense element is just rivetingly fantastic.
You get to revisit with old friends (or if you haven't read her other books then I'm betting you'll be clambering to get your hands on the other characters asap)
Meredith (Doc) is a mature, strong and capable lady, comfortable within her own skin.
Is Jay hot? Absolutely but he is so much more. I adore the fact that whatever characters Ms Barker writes, they are all so layered. You want to keep those pages turning to keep yourself totally immersed in their lives.
March 12, 2021
The queen of mature romance killed it again!!
Jay is a loaner but he has had his eye on Merry for a long time now he’s ready to make his move.
“Years? You’ve been carrying a torch for the woman for that long? Jesus, man, what’s wrong with you? Why wait ’til now?”
Meredith career is her life after a devastating loss that’s the way she wants it.
Despite the silver gray head of hair, she has a youthful look about her. An old pair of jeans and men’s flannel shirt in stark contrast with the bright-colored glasses and of course her signature purple boots.
The romance and suspense are perfectly proportioned. A little bit of serious, a little bit of playful and a whole lot of outstanding.
Jay is a loaner but he has had his eye on Merry for a long time now he’s ready to make his move.
“Years? You’ve been carrying a torch for the woman for that long? Jesus, man, what’s wrong with you? Why wait ’til now?”
Meredith career is her life after a devastating loss that’s the way she wants it.
Despite the silver gray head of hair, she has a youthful look about her. An old pair of jeans and men’s flannel shirt in stark contrast with the bright-colored glasses and of course her signature purple boots.
The romance and suspense are perfectly proportioned. A little bit of serious, a little bit of playful and a whole lot of outstanding.
March 8, 2021
Just when I think I have found my favorite Freya Barker hero, she goes and throws a new one in the mix in the form of Jay VanDyken. This man is the definition of a man in it for the long game. He was smitten with Meredith "Doc" Carter from the first time he saw her, almost two years ago. Because of his background he was perfectly happy being a police officer, but after meeting her he wanted more, both professionally and personally. So the newly launched detective is tossed headlong into a case working closely with Meredith.
Meredith's background is far more than a coroner, she's a Doc Marten wearing forensic pathologist. A woman whose past changed her course of profession into one that is primarily male dominated. While she's not looking for a relationship, Jay's constant proximity makes him hard to ignore. Throw in a case of shrink-wrapped body parts popping up and the mystery of the case deepens.
I love that both characters are mature and maybe a little stubborn. They are perfect for each other but the road is not without detours and potholes. In true Freya Barker fashion, she maps out an intriguing journey to their HEA complete with a feisty kitten and gangly dog. Ms. Barker's style keeps the reader interested from the first page and longing for more on the last. I love her On Call series in Susan Stoker's world and look forward to the next in this series of standalones.
Meredith's background is far more than a coroner, she's a Doc Marten wearing forensic pathologist. A woman whose past changed her course of profession into one that is primarily male dominated. While she's not looking for a relationship, Jay's constant proximity makes him hard to ignore. Throw in a case of shrink-wrapped body parts popping up and the mystery of the case deepens.
I love that both characters are mature and maybe a little stubborn. They are perfect for each other but the road is not without detours and potholes. In true Freya Barker fashion, she maps out an intriguing journey to their HEA complete with a feisty kitten and gangly dog. Ms. Barker's style keeps the reader interested from the first page and longing for more on the last. I love her On Call series in Susan Stoker's world and look forward to the next in this series of standalones.
March 1, 2021
4.5 stars
Jay and Meredith's story was another enjoyable addition to this series!
Jay Van Dyken has been part of the Durango PD for several years, but he tends to keep to himself with a reserved, cautious demeanor. When he met the area's new medical examiner Meredith Carter, he was instantly intrigued and it ultimately led him to pursue becoming a detective on the force. Meredith didn't start her career as an ME, but it's a profession she embraces in order to provide closure to grieving families whenever she can.
I loved that Jay is a little bit different from some of the other men we have seen in the author's books. He is a bit quiet and cautious in his personal relationships and about trusting others, but when we learn more about his history it is easy to see why. His confident side comes out when it comes to his work, and he isn't shy about applying it when he realizes Meredith is just as interested in him as he is in her. Merry is smart, independent and a little sassy when she loosens up, and they fit together wonderfully.
My only minor issue, and it is likely just a personal quirk: that title. It does fit with the theme of the other books in the series and the plot of the story, but dissecting does not invoke thoughts in my mind that make me want to dive in. Suffice it to say high school biology was NOT my jam! Fortunately once I forgot about the title and got into the words, the story kept me turning the pages and was well worth it.
ARC received from author
Jay and Meredith's story was another enjoyable addition to this series!
Jay Van Dyken has been part of the Durango PD for several years, but he tends to keep to himself with a reserved, cautious demeanor. When he met the area's new medical examiner Meredith Carter, he was instantly intrigued and it ultimately led him to pursue becoming a detective on the force. Meredith didn't start her career as an ME, but it's a profession she embraces in order to provide closure to grieving families whenever she can.
I loved that Jay is a little bit different from some of the other men we have seen in the author's books. He is a bit quiet and cautious in his personal relationships and about trusting others, but when we learn more about his history it is easy to see why. His confident side comes out when it comes to his work, and he isn't shy about applying it when he realizes Meredith is just as interested in him as he is in her. Merry is smart, independent and a little sassy when she loosens up, and they fit together wonderfully.
My only minor issue, and it is likely just a personal quirk: that title. It does fit with the theme of the other books in the series and the plot of the story, but dissecting does not invoke thoughts in my mind that make me want to dive in. Suffice it to say high school biology was NOT my jam! Fortunately once I forgot about the title and got into the words, the story kept me turning the pages and was well worth it.
ARC received from author
February 27, 2021
This is book six in The Police and Fire Operations Alpha on Call Series and it is Meredith and Jay's story. Meredith has taken over the county coroner's office and being a woman she has had to work harder than most to prove and gain the respect of others in her field but she is good at what she does and she will prove it. Jay is a detective but when he has to work closely with Meredith on the same case they find it hard to keep there feelings for each other out of it but they just grow the more time that they spend together but danger is just around the corner as they start to piece together the case that they are working on but what will happen next is anyone's guess. The characters and storyline pulled you in right from the first page and I couldn't put this book down with all the twists and turns that kept you engaged in the story and the attention to detail was great and kept the suspense of the story going right to the end. Freya Barker certainly knows how to keep her reader's attention and I can't wait to read more of her books as they are so well written and definitely worth reading.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 20, 2021
I feel like I should have liked this one better. I liked Jay and I liked Meredith, liked them together, yet at times I was a bit bored while reading. I liked that Jay was slow getting to know Meredith and how her animals played a part of the time they spent together. The bodies and crimes that were discovered was crazy when everything came out. I did like how this one ended, liked that Jay and Meredith are starting their life together.
March 1, 2021
First of all, Beau and Belle just won my heart. Nothing like a kitten, right? But on to the characters in this story. Meredith had my attention ever since her first appearance in the series, bright purple docs and all. I could just tell that she was going to be a little different and I loved her for it. Jay? Well, big props to a man who invested years before actually making his move. That could have backfired big time but I'm so glad they were both ready for it. Everything they faced, they did so together, creating a rich and realistic romance. I may have read it twice already. Definitely go get your copy!
March 1, 2021
Loved this book so much! Doc is a fantastic character who I just want to learn more about, who I can absolutely relate to and who needs something in her life. Enter Jay. He has been ignoring his attraction to Doc so when the opportunity comes along, he jumps at it. I need a Jay in my life -- these two are so great together.
I voluntarily read an advanced read copy of this book and cannot wait for my next Freya Barker read -- oh so good!
I voluntarily read an advanced read copy of this book and cannot wait for my next Freya Barker read -- oh so good!
February 21, 2021
Review by: Jennifer
(5 stars)
First I will say, these are so much better when read in order, there are returning characters and previous mentions, nothing major that impacts the current story but it just makes it better when you know what's going on. I loved everything about this story. Both Jay and Meredith are loners that have lived their lives focused on their jobs, Jay has been eyeing Meredith for awhile and she is actually part of the reason he moved up to detective. When they find themselves finally making moves at something together, they find themselves in the middle of a case. Between the case, other drama, and trying to find time to even be together, will these two loners be able to navigate a relationship or were they both just destined to be alone?
Such a great story, we get drama, danger, violence, and some really nicely done naughty moments. This story just flowed perfectly, I couldn't get enough of Jay and Meredith! I have no clue what's up next for this series but whatever, whoever I'm ready! I give this 5 stars.
(5 stars)
First I will say, these are so much better when read in order, there are returning characters and previous mentions, nothing major that impacts the current story but it just makes it better when you know what's going on. I loved everything about this story. Both Jay and Meredith are loners that have lived their lives focused on their jobs, Jay has been eyeing Meredith for awhile and she is actually part of the reason he moved up to detective. When they find themselves finally making moves at something together, they find themselves in the middle of a case. Between the case, other drama, and trying to find time to even be together, will these two loners be able to navigate a relationship or were they both just destined to be alone?
Such a great story, we get drama, danger, violence, and some really nicely done naughty moments. This story just flowed perfectly, I couldn't get enough of Jay and Meredith! I have no clue what's up next for this series but whatever, whoever I'm ready! I give this 5 stars.
March 1, 2021
This was a very interesting book. We had bodies and action but also love. I couldn't put book down once started.
I loved Jay and Meredith together, they really suit each other. But have pasts that haunt them. They really suit each other. And they work amazingly together.
I can't wait for more.
I loved Jay and Meredith together, they really suit each other. But have pasts that haunt them. They really suit each other. And they work amazingly together.
I can't wait for more.
February 18, 2021
As we all know Freya always writes such wonderful stories and this really is no exception. What i really love about this book character wise is that Jay has had a thing for Meredith for a while. He even got himself a job as a dectective because he wanted to better himself for her. And that readers would be a huge thing for anyone. I just loved that about him, and it just wasnt that, that showed commitment to her. As you read more of the book it just gets even better. As for Meredith, her husband died , and since then she has committed herself to her work, but when Jay makes a play she decides its time.
But Murder is just around the corner and as Meredith is a Coroner and works with the police she soon is the target.
A must read of course for all who know and love Freya Barkers books, definately worth 5 plus stars!!
But Murder is just around the corner and as Meredith is a Coroner and works with the police she soon is the target.
A must read of course for all who know and love Freya Barkers books, definately worth 5 plus stars!!
February 26, 2021
Another enjoyable read from the talented hands of Freya Barker. I genuinely appreciate how she creates real characters that despite their flaws are still strong and independent. That they are always humble enough to learn and grow throughout their journey, embracing their own flaws to build a better, stronger self-worth.
Dissecting Meredith is another great read to add to the collection. A gruesome mystery intertwined with the developing romance between Meredith and Jay. As the detective on the case, he’ll have to work closely with the county coroner. No hardship for him, as he’s secretly admired Meredith for years.
But, like the case, nothing is what it seems.
I really liked the characters. These two are similar. Both are introverts dedicated to their jobs. Both are shouldering painful pasts and now hold shields up against the outside world. The author did a wonderful job with the characters’ evolution, learning to find strength to bring down the shield and risk opening themselves to others.
But will it be enough? What happens when the murderer targets Meredith?
A page-turner I completely enjoyed!!!
Dissecting Meredith is another great read to add to the collection. A gruesome mystery intertwined with the developing romance between Meredith and Jay. As the detective on the case, he’ll have to work closely with the county coroner. No hardship for him, as he’s secretly admired Meredith for years.
But, like the case, nothing is what it seems.
I really liked the characters. These two are similar. Both are introverts dedicated to their jobs. Both are shouldering painful pasts and now hold shields up against the outside world. The author did a wonderful job with the characters’ evolution, learning to find strength to bring down the shield and risk opening themselves to others.
But will it be enough? What happens when the murderer targets Meredith?
A page-turner I completely enjoyed!!!
February 15, 2021
This latest addition to the On Call series was such a great read. Jay and Meredith are such complex characters, from their past and current days. Their story has everything I expect from this author. Their connection was felt from the very beginning. They both had their reasons for not wanting to pursue their attraction to each other, but now with Jay’s promotion to detective they were going to be working more closely together. When a series of body parts start popping up, their proximity to each other becomes even closer. Added with a few meddling friends, this gives Jay an opportunity to finally give in to his attraction and see where it could go. When their current case heats up and puts both into danger, their love for each other could no longer be denied. There is so much suspense, drama, danger and twists and turns that had me glued to the pages. A wonderful read and looking for more in this series.
February 9, 2021
This is the 6th book in the On Call series and is a great addition this author's story lines never weaken as the series continue which does happen with other authors and whilst we have interaction from characters from other books the banter between them all is fresh and compulsive reading. We met DR Meredith Carter in the Arrow Edge Mc book Edge of Darkness. A strong kick ass independent woman in purple Doc Martins working hard to gain respect in a male dominated world as the county coroner, she has her moments of self doubt which stem from her very sad past which she keeps hidden behind a very strong veneer, Jay VanDyken has just made detective with the DPD he has been in Durango for a couple of years and had no intention of doing anything except being a uniform police officer happy to just help his community this decision stems from his overbearing and manipulating estranged parents, but after meeting Meredith he suddenly wants to better himself, he has noticed her and likes what he sees, Meredith had noticed Jay and whilst she likes what she sees she thinks he is unapproachable , with the discovery of body parts being found she and Jay are now working together and both see different sides to each other but danger is lurking and with Jay determined to protect her and her rescue dog who is wonderful (I wont One) the action is fast paced , you wont be able to put the book down
February 16, 2021
Another blinder of a story from Ms Barker.
Her characters are so normal, they're regular people. People we can relate to. Sometimes there's a twist...
Meredith is in her element - in dead bodies to be exact. She's a coroner and she does the forensics. So she's a professional, a solid and reliable woman.
Detective Jay VanDyken has recently passed his Detective's exams, after having been happy with his lot in life until he met Meredith.
They're thrown together over time and have a soft spot for one another.
As bodies start piling up and and mysteries need investigating, they come together more and more and their fine appreciation of one another moves to a new level.
It's another MUST READ from me.
Her characters are so normal, they're regular people. People we can relate to. Sometimes there's a twist...
Meredith is in her element - in dead bodies to be exact. She's a coroner and she does the forensics. So she's a professional, a solid and reliable woman.
Detective Jay VanDyken has recently passed his Detective's exams, after having been happy with his lot in life until he met Meredith.
They're thrown together over time and have a soft spot for one another.
As bodies start piling up and and mysteries need investigating, they come together more and more and their fine appreciation of one another moves to a new level.
It's another MUST READ from me.
February 16, 2021
Another book in the On Call series. Really enjoy all of these books and seeing characters pop up from previous books. This one follows Jay and Meredith, both single and around middle age. Both trying to avoid their pasts for different reasons.
There’s a good slow romance building throughout, with enough suspense and crime as well to keep the story moving. Thoroughly recommend.
There’s a good slow romance building throughout, with enough suspense and crime as well to keep the story moving. Thoroughly recommend.
February 7, 2021
Another great read. I loved Jay who was definitely the silent and strong type. He isn’t very sharing of himself and when he wants to pursue Meredith he realizes he is going to have to put himself out there. He grew up in an environment that taught him to keep personal information to himself and it is a hard habit to break. He also has to do that with his new partner as he is now a detective and no longer a regular cop. Meredith feels she that since she is a woman she has to work harder to make sure she isn’t looked upon differently then a male is her profession would be. She has thought that Jay was a good looking man but she doesn’t think if she gets involved with someone she works with that is will look good on her or that it would be frowned upon. These two have lots of chemistry together and I loved their interactions. I also fully loved her dog Beau! Freya Barker has a great way of weaving a crime story and a romance into the same book. Also having read Susan Stoker I loved seeing some her characters helping with the investigation. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Don’t miss out on this read or any of the books in this series.
February 25, 2021
Packed with suspense, mystery, and emotion. A must read!
February 16, 2021
Freya does it again! This is the sixth book in the On Call series and each book just seems to get better and better.
I loved Meredith, as the medical examiner her character had such depth, she was smart, independent, and totally kick ass at her job.
Jay was a uniformed cop and just recently promoted to detective. He never had aspirations to become a detective but I think his secret admiration of Meredith helped convince him that that was the direction his career needed to take.
These two characters come from totally different backgrounds but somehow they are just explosive together. Jay had a vulnerability to him that I found very endearing.
“Growing up, love was never part of the equation. Duty, loyalty, pride, those were all words I was familiar with from a very young age. Love was simply not in the family vocabulary”.
There were so many different twists and turns, multiple crimes to be solved and as always Freya kept me guessing till the very end.
This is a must read!
I loved Meredith, as the medical examiner her character had such depth, she was smart, independent, and totally kick ass at her job.
Jay was a uniformed cop and just recently promoted to detective. He never had aspirations to become a detective but I think his secret admiration of Meredith helped convince him that that was the direction his career needed to take.
These two characters come from totally different backgrounds but somehow they are just explosive together. Jay had a vulnerability to him that I found very endearing.
“Growing up, love was never part of the equation. Duty, loyalty, pride, those were all words I was familiar with from a very young age. Love was simply not in the family vocabulary”.
There were so many different twists and turns, multiple crimes to be solved and as always Freya kept me guessing till the very end.
This is a must read!
February 11, 2021
Major props go to Freya Barker. Some how, some way her writing and plot lines get better with each new book. Which is impossible because her books are all amazing! The fact that she writes mature characters (which means characters that are my age) is what compels me to read all her words.
Meredith and Jay have an attraction that runs deep. They have completely different upbringings, but their love just works! As always, there is suspense and danger galore. I can usually figure out the “who done it”, but Freya always keeps me guessing and scratching my head. Another outstanding, umpteen star read!!
Meredith and Jay have an attraction that runs deep. They have completely different upbringings, but their love just works! As always, there is suspense and danger galore. I can usually figure out the “who done it”, but Freya always keeps me guessing and scratching my head. Another outstanding, umpteen star read!!
March 9, 2021
Freya Barker writes and creates the most wonderful worlds, characters who are so relatable and who immerse you in their stories.
The On Call series is quickly becoming my favourite series of book with Dissecting Meredith as my firm favourite.
Meredith is the county coroner & Jay is a beat cop, who has recently been promoted to Detective, both middle age and both with solitude as a preferred status. When a case throws them together, Jay takes the decision to act on his attraction to Doc.
I loved the police investigation side of the story, the introduction of forensic science into the mix, the budding romance and growth of both leading characters makes this one heck of a read.
The On Call series is quickly becoming my favourite series of book with Dissecting Meredith as my firm favourite.
Meredith is the county coroner & Jay is a beat cop, who has recently been promoted to Detective, both middle age and both with solitude as a preferred status. When a case throws them together, Jay takes the decision to act on his attraction to Doc.
I loved the police investigation side of the story, the introduction of forensic science into the mix, the budding romance and growth of both leading characters makes this one heck of a read.
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