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Angelina Bonaparte Mysteries #4
Blood Kills: PI Angelina Bonaparte Crime Thrillers
A murdered metal sculptor. A Russian mobster on the hunt. Can a talented PI outsmart a vindictive killer who has her in his crosshairs?
Private investigator Angelina Bonaparte can barely contain her excitement. Thrilled to reunite with her homicide detective boyfriend after a mandated separation of two years, seven months and fourteen days, she’s preparing every detail for his return. But she’s forced to put passion on the back burner when she discovers a local artist brutally slain.
With the culprit still on the loose and the evidence not matching up, Angie's life could be snuffed out by the ultimate criminal mastermind. Is Angie's romantic reunion in danger of being fatally cut short?
If you like riveting twists, blossoming love affairs, and pulse-pounding close calls, then you’ll adore this high-octane story.
Private investigator Angelina Bonaparte can barely contain her excitement. Thrilled to reunite with her homicide detective boyfriend after a mandated separation of two years, seven months and fourteen days, she’s preparing every detail for his return. But she’s forced to put passion on the back burner when she discovers a local artist brutally slain.
With the culprit still on the loose and the evidence not matching up, Angie's life could be snuffed out by the ultimate criminal mastermind. Is Angie's romantic reunion in danger of being fatally cut short?
If you like riveting twists, blossoming love affairs, and pulse-pounding close calls, then you’ll adore this high-octane story.
235 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 20, 2021
29 people are currently reading
37 people want to read
About the author
Nanci Rathbun
6 books105 followersI am a lifelong reader of mysteries – historical, contemporary, futuristic, paranormal, hard-boiled, cozy … you can find them all on my bookshelves and in my e-readers. I bring logic and planning to my writing from my first career as an IT project manager, and attention to characters and dialog from my second career as a Congregationalist minister. (My books are not Christian fiction, but they contain no explicit violence or sexual scenes, nor bad language beyond an occasional mild curse word.)
I grew up an Army brat, and have lived in Germany, France and Korea, as well as several states in the U.S. After my dad retired from the service, our family settled in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. I raised my daughter and son there, while working at AT&T. I never expected to move after taking early retirement, but when my second grandchild was on the way, I wanted to be closer. One of my greatest joys is hearing my three granddaughters shout ‘Nana’ and run to me when I come in their front door in Fort Collins, Colorado.
My Maltipoo, Teeny, and I now live in Wellington, Colorado USA. No matter where I make my home, I will always be a Green Bay Packers fan.
I grew up an Army brat, and have lived in Germany, France and Korea, as well as several states in the U.S. After my dad retired from the service, our family settled in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. I raised my daughter and son there, while working at AT&T. I never expected to move after taking early retirement, but when my second grandchild was on the way, I wanted to be closer. One of my greatest joys is hearing my three granddaughters shout ‘Nana’ and run to me when I come in their front door in Fort Collins, Colorado.
My Maltipoo, Teeny, and I now live in Wellington, Colorado USA. No matter where I make my home, I will always be a Green Bay Packers fan.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
April 11, 2021
First and foremost, a large thank you to Reedsy Discovery and Nanci Rathbun for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
Having devoured the three previous novels in this series in order to reach this ARC, I was pleased to get my hands on the latest instalment of the Angelina Bonaparte mysteries. Nanci Rathbun continues to develop a great collection of novels built on the tenacious PI Angelina Bonaparte, working around Milwaukee and helping those in need. Counting down the last days of her forced separation from a lover, Angie has ordered a special piece of art to commemorate their reunification. When she arrives to collect it, she discovers the artist’s body in his shop. One thing leads to another and his seedy past comes to light. Hired by a fellow business owner to get to the bottom of things, Angie has an eye on the likely murderer, but needs to connect the dots, as more bodies pile up. This will be one case that requires additional caution to keep her alive! A great addition to the series for fans of Rathbun’s work.
Angelina Bonaparte (add the ‘tay’ on the last syllable if you want to save a punch to the mouth) has been in agony since she and her lover, Detective W. T. “Ted” Wukowski, have been forced apart by Milwaukee PD brass. However, the days are dwindling down and she has a special treat in store for him, aside from the usually flirtatious lingerie she flaunts. While visiting a local metalsmith to collect a piece, she discovers Mick Swanson’s body. Some preliminary sleuthing provides some insight in the form of a letter from Swanson himself, pointing the finger at his own cousin.
While the murder has rattled Angie, the local business owners in the cooperative are equally jarred, worried that the recent violence will cause sales to plummet. One such owner, Debby Hill, admits that she is also Swanson’s executor and worries that she will be targeted. Angie agrees to take her on as a client and they begin to unravel the darker side to Michael (Mick) Lebedev Swanson, whose service in the Russian military opens up new and troubling facets to the investigation.
When Angie and Wukowski get an MPD reprieve on their complete separation, they are able to work together, albeit in a strained fashion, on the case. Detective Wukowski provides some added insight that Mick’s DNA was found at the scene of an Illinois politician’s murder, citing that the metalsmith was actually involved in the Bratva, the Russian Mob. Realising that she will make no headway with her paramour, Angie is forced to take matters into her own hands.
More bodies pile up and Swanson’s own attorney is attacked, with the probate documents stolen. Whatever Swanson has on his cousin must be significant and rests primarily on their time in the Russian Army during the invasion of Chechnya. Angie discovers that there is some family history here that could be playing into the larger motive for murder, but worries that it will all be erased before she can get to the bottom of things. Racing against time and tossing caution into the wind, PI Bonaparte will have to take some risks to bring the truth out, much to the chagrin of hard-headed Detective Wukowski. Will there be a romantic reconnection after all?
I enjoy binge-reading a series, as it permits me to explore the plots and character development on a deeper level. When handed this ARC, I chose not to dive right in, but rather get an understanding of the series and all that Rathbun had done to date. I am pleased that I did, as it permitted me to connect better with Angelina Bonaparte, though I admit it took a while. While I was not entirely hooked by the debut novel that Nanci Rathbun offered readers, Angelina Bonaparte‘s unique approach did eventually sink in for me, giving me a deeper appreciation of her style and I was rather excited to get my hands on this novel.
Angelina Bonaparte stays the course as a strong protagonist, forced to take on a great deal yet again. While there are some moments of familial backstory peppered throughout, the main focus appears to be character development, both professional and personal. Bonaparte is a risk taker, but she appears to ground most of her actions on fact-finding and strong sleuthing. Pulled into the case, she uses many of her connections in the field to reveal truths, though her stubbornness does sometimes lead to some hot water moments. Flirty and focussed on rekindling her love affair, she has her moments of cringe-worthy saccharine one-liners, but those are par for the course.
Rathbun continues with a strong collection of secondary characters, many of whom she admits come from people she actually knows. Those who grace the pages of the book help push the story forward and keep the reader entertained throughout. While there are always criminal elements in the novels, much of the plot development comes from understanding various angles these seemingly minor characters provide the story, only adding to the greatness of the overall piece. Rathbun has some recurring characters and a bunch of new faces, keeping the reader intrigued while learning what’s going on as well.
I can finally admit that Nanci Rathbun’s novels are growing on me. While it took me some time to find my niche, trying to wrap my head around this middle-aged PI‘s obsession with undergarments, the fact that there is a strong thriller is not lost on me. The book added some grit and looked again into some recent history to add a depth and flavour to the plot, while keeping the action coming in each chapter. Rathbun’s writing is engaging throughout, usually able to steer away from predictability, though there is an undertone of slight hokines, which works in this regard. There’s a decent balance of short and longer chapters to whet the reader’s appetite throughout, with wondering pacing. I enjoyed the mix of backstory from previous novels and the newness of this mystery, a great balance that is sure to keep the reader wondering what’s to come. While it was an advantage to binge the series, I know I will have to wait for a while now to see if Angelina Bonaparte is back with more Milwaukee fun!
Kudos, Madam Rathbun, for a winner. I am glad I took the gamble on the series and feel you have a fan in me!
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
Having devoured the three previous novels in this series in order to reach this ARC, I was pleased to get my hands on the latest instalment of the Angelina Bonaparte mysteries. Nanci Rathbun continues to develop a great collection of novels built on the tenacious PI Angelina Bonaparte, working around Milwaukee and helping those in need. Counting down the last days of her forced separation from a lover, Angie has ordered a special piece of art to commemorate their reunification. When she arrives to collect it, she discovers the artist’s body in his shop. One thing leads to another and his seedy past comes to light. Hired by a fellow business owner to get to the bottom of things, Angie has an eye on the likely murderer, but needs to connect the dots, as more bodies pile up. This will be one case that requires additional caution to keep her alive! A great addition to the series for fans of Rathbun’s work.
Angelina Bonaparte (add the ‘tay’ on the last syllable if you want to save a punch to the mouth) has been in agony since she and her lover, Detective W. T. “Ted” Wukowski, have been forced apart by Milwaukee PD brass. However, the days are dwindling down and she has a special treat in store for him, aside from the usually flirtatious lingerie she flaunts. While visiting a local metalsmith to collect a piece, she discovers Mick Swanson’s body. Some preliminary sleuthing provides some insight in the form of a letter from Swanson himself, pointing the finger at his own cousin.
While the murder has rattled Angie, the local business owners in the cooperative are equally jarred, worried that the recent violence will cause sales to plummet. One such owner, Debby Hill, admits that she is also Swanson’s executor and worries that she will be targeted. Angie agrees to take her on as a client and they begin to unravel the darker side to Michael (Mick) Lebedev Swanson, whose service in the Russian military opens up new and troubling facets to the investigation.
When Angie and Wukowski get an MPD reprieve on their complete separation, they are able to work together, albeit in a strained fashion, on the case. Detective Wukowski provides some added insight that Mick’s DNA was found at the scene of an Illinois politician’s murder, citing that the metalsmith was actually involved in the Bratva, the Russian Mob. Realising that she will make no headway with her paramour, Angie is forced to take matters into her own hands.
More bodies pile up and Swanson’s own attorney is attacked, with the probate documents stolen. Whatever Swanson has on his cousin must be significant and rests primarily on their time in the Russian Army during the invasion of Chechnya. Angie discovers that there is some family history here that could be playing into the larger motive for murder, but worries that it will all be erased before she can get to the bottom of things. Racing against time and tossing caution into the wind, PI Bonaparte will have to take some risks to bring the truth out, much to the chagrin of hard-headed Detective Wukowski. Will there be a romantic reconnection after all?
I enjoy binge-reading a series, as it permits me to explore the plots and character development on a deeper level. When handed this ARC, I chose not to dive right in, but rather get an understanding of the series and all that Rathbun had done to date. I am pleased that I did, as it permitted me to connect better with Angelina Bonaparte, though I admit it took a while. While I was not entirely hooked by the debut novel that Nanci Rathbun offered readers, Angelina Bonaparte‘s unique approach did eventually sink in for me, giving me a deeper appreciation of her style and I was rather excited to get my hands on this novel.
Angelina Bonaparte stays the course as a strong protagonist, forced to take on a great deal yet again. While there are some moments of familial backstory peppered throughout, the main focus appears to be character development, both professional and personal. Bonaparte is a risk taker, but she appears to ground most of her actions on fact-finding and strong sleuthing. Pulled into the case, she uses many of her connections in the field to reveal truths, though her stubbornness does sometimes lead to some hot water moments. Flirty and focussed on rekindling her love affair, she has her moments of cringe-worthy saccharine one-liners, but those are par for the course.
Rathbun continues with a strong collection of secondary characters, many of whom she admits come from people she actually knows. Those who grace the pages of the book help push the story forward and keep the reader entertained throughout. While there are always criminal elements in the novels, much of the plot development comes from understanding various angles these seemingly minor characters provide the story, only adding to the greatness of the overall piece. Rathbun has some recurring characters and a bunch of new faces, keeping the reader intrigued while learning what’s going on as well.
I can finally admit that Nanci Rathbun’s novels are growing on me. While it took me some time to find my niche, trying to wrap my head around this middle-aged PI‘s obsession with undergarments, the fact that there is a strong thriller is not lost on me. The book added some grit and looked again into some recent history to add a depth and flavour to the plot, while keeping the action coming in each chapter. Rathbun’s writing is engaging throughout, usually able to steer away from predictability, though there is an undertone of slight hokines, which works in this regard. There’s a decent balance of short and longer chapters to whet the reader’s appetite throughout, with wondering pacing. I enjoyed the mix of backstory from previous novels and the newness of this mystery, a great balance that is sure to keep the reader wondering what’s to come. While it was an advantage to binge the series, I know I will have to wait for a while now to see if Angelina Bonaparte is back with more Milwaukee fun!
Kudos, Madam Rathbun, for a winner. I am glad I took the gamble on the series and feel you have a fan in me!
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
April 21, 2021
BLOOD KILLS is the fourth book in the Angelina Bonaparte series. They should be read in the order of release.
Retrouvaille (n.), the joy of meeting or finding someone again after a long separation.
Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary
I have waited three years for this release. Angie and Wukowski have also been waiting three years (948 days) for their reunion. Just sixteen days before his retirement and their reunion, fate in the form of a murder scene, brings them together sooner than planned.
I listened to the first three books in the series on Audible, and grabbed the kindle edition of this as quickly as I could because of how much I had loved Angelina Bonaparte before. Though I was reading this time, in my head I was still hearing the voice of Kieren Callan Metts (the narrator).
I love the quotes at the beginnings of the chapters and in the voices of the characters. It amazes me the amount of research that must go into finding an appropriate quote and the sources vary from Confucius and famous poets to memes, A.A. Milne (Winnie the Pooh), and advertising slogans.
Between the suspense story and my happiness at having Angie and Ted back together kept me glued to my kindle.
I love how Wukowski (Ted) tries so hard to balance his natural protectiveness with a need to respect Angie’s independence. Angie is independent, but also respects Ted’s need to protect. It makes them a perfect couple.
The investigation into death of Mick Swanson could be ripped from headlines – in fact, that’s what started Ms. Rathbun started on this story. Actually a footnote from a headline story, and the thought of, “what if it was a killer who …”
I’m looking forward to what the next story may be as we look back into Angie’s past. I only hope we don’t have to wait another three years!
Note: While I received this book as a gifted ARC via Booksprout, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: BLOOD KILLS
Series: Angelina Bonaparte #4
Category /Genre: Modern Detective; Mystery
Recommended for: 16+ due to adult situations
Grammar/editing: A – near perfect
Received from: Nanci Rathbun (as an ARC gifted copy)
Retrouvaille (n.), the joy of meeting or finding someone again after a long separation.
Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary
I have waited three years for this release. Angie and Wukowski have also been waiting three years (948 days) for their reunion. Just sixteen days before his retirement and their reunion, fate in the form of a murder scene, brings them together sooner than planned.
I listened to the first three books in the series on Audible, and grabbed the kindle edition of this as quickly as I could because of how much I had loved Angelina Bonaparte before. Though I was reading this time, in my head I was still hearing the voice of Kieren Callan Metts (the narrator).
I love the quotes at the beginnings of the chapters and in the voices of the characters. It amazes me the amount of research that must go into finding an appropriate quote and the sources vary from Confucius and famous poets to memes, A.A. Milne (Winnie the Pooh), and advertising slogans.
Between the suspense story and my happiness at having Angie and Ted back together kept me glued to my kindle.
I love how Wukowski (Ted) tries so hard to balance his natural protectiveness with a need to respect Angie’s independence. Angie is independent, but also respects Ted’s need to protect. It makes them a perfect couple.
The investigation into death of Mick Swanson could be ripped from headlines – in fact, that’s what started Ms. Rathbun started on this story. Actually a footnote from a headline story, and the thought of, “what if it was a killer who …”
I’m looking forward to what the next story may be as we look back into Angie’s past. I only hope we don’t have to wait another three years!
Note: While I received this book as a gifted ARC via Booksprout, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: BLOOD KILLS
Series: Angelina Bonaparte #4
Category /Genre: Modern Detective; Mystery
Recommended for: 16+ due to adult situations
Grammar/editing: A – near perfect
Received from: Nanci Rathbun (as an ARC gifted copy)
June 14, 2021
No Sun set for Angie
I have enjoyed the series, so far.
However I have two complaints about this book, No. 4.
First, I found it choppy as there were many short chapters.
Second, having lived in both Milwaukee and Racine!, Wisconsin, I just can't let the error in chapter 45 (only 75% through the book, see first comment) when Angie sits in her living room, facing Lake Michigan and "watched the sun SET".
This is not possible as Milwaukee is on western shore of Lake Michigan, so any window facing the lake will be fa ing East and only allow sun RISE views.
I have enjoyed the series, so far.
However I have two complaints about this book, No. 4.
First, I found it choppy as there were many short chapters.
Second, having lived in both Milwaukee and Racine!, Wisconsin, I just can't let the error in chapter 45 (only 75% through the book, see first comment) when Angie sits in her living room, facing Lake Michigan and "watched the sun SET".
This is not possible as Milwaukee is on western shore of Lake Michigan, so any window facing the lake will be fa ing East and only allow sun RISE views.
June 3, 2021
Artur Hunter slowed down at target area, scanned for any observers & slipping into the dark alley by the loading dock behind the shop.
Mikhail (42, cousin) was inside.
BANG! BANG!
Time to exit a truck was pulling up to the loading dock.
Bram York (driver, private security) reported the shooting a bullet to the head & another to the heart.
Officer Opansky (Milwaukee PD) was doing the interviewing of PI Bobbie Russell (gay, associate Investigator, AB Investigations) & Bram.
Detective Ted Wukowski (Angie’s lover, MPD Homicide) & Detective Joe Ignowski (MPD Homicide partner) were checking out the crime scene & interviewing PI Angelina “Angie” Bonaparte (Sicilian-American, Sr. Investigator, AB Investigations, MS library science).
They had come to pick up Angie’s artistic metal panels that Mick Swanson (Chechen, The Arts Galleria metal works LLC owner) made for her.
Captain Charles “Chuck” Horton (MPD Homicide) wanted to hear about the newest murder.
Captain Salina Cortés (Internal Affairs) wanted to talk with Angie.
What did the letter say that Michael (Mick) Lebedev Swanson wrote to Angie?
I do not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing free books from publishers & authors. Therefore, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one.
An awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very professionally written cozy murder mystery book. It was quite easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a huge set of unique characters & facts to keep track of. This could also make another great murder mystery movie, or better yet a mini-TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is an amazingly easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free Author; Dark Chocolate Press LLC.; Amazon Digital Services LLC. Kindle Mobi; AXP; PDF book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
Mikhail (42, cousin) was inside.
BANG! BANG!
Time to exit a truck was pulling up to the loading dock.
Bram York (driver, private security) reported the shooting a bullet to the head & another to the heart.
Officer Opansky (Milwaukee PD) was doing the interviewing of PI Bobbie Russell (gay, associate Investigator, AB Investigations) & Bram.
Detective Ted Wukowski (Angie’s lover, MPD Homicide) & Detective Joe Ignowski (MPD Homicide partner) were checking out the crime scene & interviewing PI Angelina “Angie” Bonaparte (Sicilian-American, Sr. Investigator, AB Investigations, MS library science).
They had come to pick up Angie’s artistic metal panels that Mick Swanson (Chechen, The Arts Galleria metal works LLC owner) made for her.
Captain Charles “Chuck” Horton (MPD Homicide) wanted to hear about the newest murder.
Captain Salina Cortés (Internal Affairs) wanted to talk with Angie.
What did the letter say that Michael (Mick) Lebedev Swanson wrote to Angie?
I do not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing free books from publishers & authors. Therefore, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one.
An awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very professionally written cozy murder mystery book. It was quite easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a huge set of unique characters & facts to keep track of. This could also make another great murder mystery movie, or better yet a mini-TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is an amazingly easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free Author; Dark Chocolate Press LLC.; Amazon Digital Services LLC. Kindle Mobi; AXP; PDF book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
May 3, 2021
I was so excited to see the release of a new Angelina Bonaparte Mystery and it met every expectation. Wow, what a plot! Edge of your seat suspense with that so Angie attitude makes book four of this outstanding series a sure reader favorite. While strong women are the focus characters, author Nanci Rathburn doesn't slight the males who are skilled and protective but who have learned that a boss is the one who pays the salary and our ladies are self-employed. All the regular characters get that real strength brings responsibility; kindness to those in need is a byword with this crowd.
When an acquaintance is murder, history and secrets can become deadly for anyone who comes too close. Angelina's family contacts with the Family won't be of much use if the Russian mafia, the Bratva, is involved.
When an acquaintance is murder, history and secrets can become deadly for anyone who comes too close. Angelina's family contacts with the Family won't be of much use if the Russian mafia, the Bratva, is involved.
May 31, 2021
Unfortunately, as much as I enjoyed the three previous books in this series, this 4th book irritated me from beginning to end. I don't know what happened either to me, or to the way the content of this book came across for me, but all of a sudden all the characters became more caricatures of themselves. Firstly, the repetitiveness of Angelina's thoughts about getting back together with Wukowski, after their imposed separation, dictated by the Milwaukee P.D.
Secondly, I don't know what Angelina sees in Wukowski; because he's a bully and he's always scowling and grumbling.
What I like about Angelina Bonaparte is that she's a fashion-oriented, coquettish P.I.; an assertive older woman and a grand-mother to boot. But even a great character needs good writing & good plot.
Secondly, I don't know what Angelina sees in Wukowski; because he's a bully and he's always scowling and grumbling.
What I like about Angelina Bonaparte is that she's a fashion-oriented, coquettish P.I.; an assertive older woman and a grand-mother to boot. But even a great character needs good writing & good plot.
May 2, 2021
Angelina Bonaparte is not only a great investigator, she is also a mother, a grandmother, a woman in love and profoundlydedicated to her family and to the ones she loves. She is an inspiring charater for all those young grandmothers who sometimes may feel their mission is accomplished and there isn´t much left to experience. A well developed plot, with really interesting and real information contained in it. Interesting and entertaining!
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.
June 25, 2021
Blood Kills is Nanci Rathbun's fourth novel in the Angelina Bonaparte mystery series and is my favorite one to date. I found that I couldn't read fast enough and or put the book down. It is fast paced, well-written, and I was involved with the characters. I was easily pulled back into the story of Angie and her detective boyfriend, Wukowski as they dealt with the latest murder and the many interwoven details. I particularly enjoyed enjoyed the factor that solved the mystery and wrapped up the case.
April 5, 2023
Weee-Oh-Weee I love this series. This series is just so darn entertaining. I love Angelina Bonaparte. She is not a young upstart, no she’s a woman. A smart, brave, determined, family oriented, sexy when need be woman. It’s kind of a procedural mystery, the humans good and bad are so much fun. Angelina’s band of well, I guess I’ll call them security specialists are captivating and lovable. Even though the book is technically short it is a full story. Good stuff!
September 14, 2023
I really have enjoyed all the books in this series. This one is--so far--my favorite. I have to say, I really do love the fact the heroine is a grandmother who wears sexy lingerie. As a PI, Angie always remains true to herself and does what she feels is the right thing to do, regardless of how much that bothers those around her. I also enjoy the way Angie's relationships with her friends and the people she works with just keeps growing. Loved the ending too!
September 19, 2022
The plots are fine.
Self-published? I ask because audiobooks 1-3 have the same (mediocre) narrator, and book 4 has that narrator joined by a male of the same last name, so..friends/relatives of the author? The man doesn’t meet even the low qualification of “mediocre.” I expect better.
Even if Rathbun adds to the series, I’m done.
Self-published? I ask because audiobooks 1-3 have the same (mediocre) narrator, and book 4 has that narrator joined by a male of the same last name, so..friends/relatives of the author? The man doesn’t meet even the low qualification of “mediocre.” I expect better.
Even if Rathbun adds to the series, I’m done.
May 9, 2025
Oh, I love a good writer! These 4 books have gotten more and more interesting, the plots more complicated, the characters becoming fully developed personalities, and the solutions just as tricky as we would wish. Kudos to author Rathbun, and thanks for letting me into the lives of these unforgettable characters.
July 16, 2021
Great series!
Loved all the books in the series. Great character development…along with a cast of characters that brings the stories excitement and a fun read. Can’t wait till the next one! Writing is excellent and
Plots are well developed.
Loved all the books in the series. Great character development…along with a cast of characters that brings the stories excitement and a fun read. Can’t wait till the next one! Writing is excellent and
Plots are well developed.
October 1, 2021
Very enjoyable reading
Really like all the characters and every plot that unfolds. These books are the type you can't put down. The fast pace of each plot keeps you interested to the end
Really like all the characters and every plot that unfolds. These books are the type you can't put down. The fast pace of each plot keeps you interested to the end
November 17, 2025
wonderful series
I met the author at a grocery store in Loveland - I took her card as I’m always looking for a good mystery - this does not disappoint! I look forward to more Angelina Bonaparte mysteries! I highly recommend them.
I met the author at a grocery store in Loveland - I took her card as I’m always looking for a good mystery - this does not disappoint! I look forward to more Angelina Bonaparte mysteries! I highly recommend them.
April 30, 2021
Angelina Bonaparte is an interesting PI that I have just encountered. Blood Kills is a combo of mystery, romance and of course, murder. Excellent novel.
February 3, 2022
Angelina, a warrior in any world.
I’ve read the 4 books in this series and recommend them to everyone that enjoys
strong women in a man’s world.
I’ve read the 4 books in this series and recommend them to everyone that enjoys
strong women in a man’s world.
February 6, 2022
Love this series. It is so nice to have middle-aged great characters who have great sex lives. The plots are good also.
July 15, 2022
Milwaukee detective
It's fun to read books by Namco Rathburn since this series is set in Milwaukee. I live near and recognize places in the books.
It's fun to read books by Namco Rathburn since this series is set in Milwaukee. I live near and recognize places in the books.
September 22, 2022
A WISHING SHELF BOOK REVIEW
8th January 2021
TITLE: Blood Kills
AUTHOR: Nanci Rathbun
Star Rating: 4
‘A thoroughly gripping thriller packed full of twists, turns – and a strong-minded female investigator. What’s there not to like?’ The Wishing Shelf
REVIEW
The ‘thriller’ is still the most popular genre in the world of books. They always seem to sell well - they always have - and, as long as the author throws in the right ingredients, readers will devour them. Blood Kills by Nanci Rathbun is a good example of this. It starts off with a bang - a murder - then the author brings in the bold female private investigator who we confidently know will solve the case. The author then throws in a few twists, a few turns, lots of red herrings and, of course, tops it all off with a dollop of romance. So, if you enjoy thrillers, I can confidently recommend Blood Kills, as this book ticks pretty much every ‘thriller‘ box.
In terms of the writing style, it's spot on - for the genre that is. Thriller readers want short, sharp paragraphing; basically, they want the author to ‘get on with it’. Nancy Rathbun seems to understand this; so the pacing is excellent and there's plenty going on all of the time. It's not Dickens, but that's okay. The readers don't want Dickens, they don't want a long commentary or lengthy descriptions. They want danger. They want excitement. And they want strong, relatable characters trying to discover the truth. And that's what this author offers.
So, now to the important bit. Who is this book for? Well, if you happen to be looking for a book that's different; that's knocking down the ‘genre walls’, this novel is probably not for you. But if, say, you enjoy the TV program Death in Paradise where you don't have to work too hard but, at the same time, will be thoroughly engaged, you'll enjoy this. A good thriller like Blood Kills is like comfy slippers, fits well, never shocking, and always welcome at the end of a long day.
A ‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review
www.thewsa.co.uk
Merged review:
This book was entered in The Wishing Shelf Book Awards. This is what our readers thought:
Title: Blood Kills: PI Angelina Bonaparte Crime Thrillers (Angelina Bonaparte Mysteries Book 4)
Author: Nanci Rathbun
Star Rating: 4 Stars
Number of Readers: 15
Stats
Editing: 8/10
Writing Style: 7/10
Content: 7/10
Cover: 3/5
Of the 15 readers:
12 would read another book by this author.
11 thought the cover was good or excellent.
15 felt it was easy to follow.
12 would recommend this book to another reader to try.
Of all the readers, 8 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘plotting a story’.
Of all the readers, 3 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘developing the characters’.
Of all the readers, 4 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘writing style’.
15 felt the pacing was good or excellent.
12 thought the author understood the readership and what they wanted.
Readers’ Comments
“Exciting thriller with the hero battling the Russian mob. I have read a number of this author´s books and this wasn´t the best. But it´s still a compelling story filled with lots of twists and a ton of suspense.” Male reader, aged 54
“This is a book of two parts: the thriller part and the ´try to get back with the lover´ part. Personally, I preferred the thriller part. The author´s so good at developing the plot in a skilful and surprising way. She´s also excellent with suspense; she kept me guessing all the way till the end.” Female reader, aged 38
“Simple, fast-paced prose which works well for the genre.” Male reader, aged 71
“I would think most thriller fans will get a lot from this set of books. You basically get what it says on the tin: suspense, a strong female protagonist, lots of danger – and a complex love life!” Female reader, aged 40
To Sum It Up:
‘An unpredictable, fast-paced thriller. A RED RIBBON WINNER and highly recommended!’ The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
8th January 2021
TITLE: Blood Kills
AUTHOR: Nanci Rathbun
Star Rating: 4
‘A thoroughly gripping thriller packed full of twists, turns – and a strong-minded female investigator. What’s there not to like?’ The Wishing Shelf
REVIEW
The ‘thriller’ is still the most popular genre in the world of books. They always seem to sell well - they always have - and, as long as the author throws in the right ingredients, readers will devour them. Blood Kills by Nanci Rathbun is a good example of this. It starts off with a bang - a murder - then the author brings in the bold female private investigator who we confidently know will solve the case. The author then throws in a few twists, a few turns, lots of red herrings and, of course, tops it all off with a dollop of romance. So, if you enjoy thrillers, I can confidently recommend Blood Kills, as this book ticks pretty much every ‘thriller‘ box.
In terms of the writing style, it's spot on - for the genre that is. Thriller readers want short, sharp paragraphing; basically, they want the author to ‘get on with it’. Nancy Rathbun seems to understand this; so the pacing is excellent and there's plenty going on all of the time. It's not Dickens, but that's okay. The readers don't want Dickens, they don't want a long commentary or lengthy descriptions. They want danger. They want excitement. And they want strong, relatable characters trying to discover the truth. And that's what this author offers.
So, now to the important bit. Who is this book for? Well, if you happen to be looking for a book that's different; that's knocking down the ‘genre walls’, this novel is probably not for you. But if, say, you enjoy the TV program Death in Paradise where you don't have to work too hard but, at the same time, will be thoroughly engaged, you'll enjoy this. A good thriller like Blood Kills is like comfy slippers, fits well, never shocking, and always welcome at the end of a long day.
A ‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review
www.thewsa.co.uk
Merged review:
This book was entered in The Wishing Shelf Book Awards. This is what our readers thought:
Title: Blood Kills: PI Angelina Bonaparte Crime Thrillers (Angelina Bonaparte Mysteries Book 4)
Author: Nanci Rathbun
Star Rating: 4 Stars
Number of Readers: 15
Stats
Editing: 8/10
Writing Style: 7/10
Content: 7/10
Cover: 3/5
Of the 15 readers:
12 would read another book by this author.
11 thought the cover was good or excellent.
15 felt it was easy to follow.
12 would recommend this book to another reader to try.
Of all the readers, 8 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘plotting a story’.
Of all the readers, 3 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘developing the characters’.
Of all the readers, 4 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘writing style’.
15 felt the pacing was good or excellent.
12 thought the author understood the readership and what they wanted.
Readers’ Comments
“Exciting thriller with the hero battling the Russian mob. I have read a number of this author´s books and this wasn´t the best. But it´s still a compelling story filled with lots of twists and a ton of suspense.” Male reader, aged 54
“This is a book of two parts: the thriller part and the ´try to get back with the lover´ part. Personally, I preferred the thriller part. The author´s so good at developing the plot in a skilful and surprising way. She´s also excellent with suspense; she kept me guessing all the way till the end.” Female reader, aged 38
“Simple, fast-paced prose which works well for the genre.” Male reader, aged 71
“I would think most thriller fans will get a lot from this set of books. You basically get what it says on the tin: suspense, a strong female protagonist, lots of danger – and a complex love life!” Female reader, aged 40
To Sum It Up:
‘An unpredictable, fast-paced thriller. A RED RIBBON WINNER and highly recommended!’ The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
April 3, 2021
I love this series! If I had to sum it up in just a few words I would say cozy mystery with edge. Angelina is a P.I , a divorcee. She is intelligent, clothes lover, daughter, grandmother. Family is the rock in this series, albeit her father is part of the FAMILY from days gone by. Her lawyer, when she needs one, also represents the FAMILY. She is in a relationship with a detective (Ted), a relationship that has been on hold for 2 years plus. Angelina takes Bram and Bobby with her to help carry and load the copper work she ordered. When they arrive they find artist dead and the twisted mystery takes off. Bobby, Bram and Spider take prominence in this plot - thank you Nanci ! There is a Russian back ground and more. My heart jumped when Angelina agreed to babysit Spiders children so Spider and Magdalena could go out. This is a fast paced, well done mystery written from Angelinas point of view, with G rated relationship behind closed doors. She is brass with heart. Tells you like it is and goes all out to help right the wrongs. In between the bread and butter PI work of course :) Thank you Nanci Rathbun, thank you Hidden Gems for the arc. Loved it! Waiting for the next. I freely volunteer my thoughts and opinions.
April 20, 2021
I'm an avid reader and "The Angelina Bonaparte" series by author Nancy Rathbun is fast becoming one of my favorite series in the cozy mystery genre. What sets this series apart for me from others in the genre is the diversity of characters and the author's ability to combine fiction with real life events and scientific discoveries.
In "Blood Kills", the reader learns the identity of the killer in the first pages of the novel when Angie Bonaparte stumbles over the murdered victim but the conundrum is the lack of evidence or leads pointing to the perpetrator of the crime.
If you enjoy reading mysteries, witty, smart and resourceful heroines with a knack for getting into trouble, I suggest checking out this series.
Thank you Nancy Rathbun, I'm looking forward to finding out what happens in the next Angie Bonaparte mystery surrounding her mother.
In "Blood Kills", the reader learns the identity of the killer in the first pages of the novel when Angie Bonaparte stumbles over the murdered victim but the conundrum is the lack of evidence or leads pointing to the perpetrator of the crime.
If you enjoy reading mysteries, witty, smart and resourceful heroines with a knack for getting into trouble, I suggest checking out this series.
Thank you Nancy Rathbun, I'm looking forward to finding out what happens in the next Angie Bonaparte mystery surrounding her mother.
April 20, 2021
Once again Nanci Rathbun has given us a real page turner, well written with exciting characters. The descriptions of the locations have placed you there in the story.
Action packed and full of twists and turns, this story keeps you gripped to end.
I received this story as an arc and wanted to give an honest review.
Action packed and full of twists and turns, this story keeps you gripped to end.
I received this story as an arc and wanted to give an honest review.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews