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Marked #1
Marked for Death
She speaks for the dead.
For Dr. Maggie Carpenter, spending the day surrounded by death isn't just normal...it's her calling. As a forensic pathologist, it's her job to find justice for victims who are unable to speak for themselves. So when the sexy FBI agent she worked with a few months ago asks her to consult on a particularly disturbing case in Colorado, she can't bring herself to say no.
He lives to bring killers to justice.
FBI Special Agent Noah Killion has come face-to-face with evil before, but nothing like the killer he's up against now. With a monster terrorizing his city, he and his team will use every resource they have at their disposal to stop him. Including the beautiful, brilliant doctor he can't seem to forget.
The man they're hunting wants one more trophy for his collection.
Working together again, the chemistry between Maggie and Noah becomes impossible to deny. While on the hunt for a killer, they find themselves falling hard and fast for one another. And when the monster in their sights becomes fixated on Maggie, Noah vows to keep the woman he's falling in love with safe...or die trying.
For Dr. Maggie Carpenter, spending the day surrounded by death isn't just normal...it's her calling. As a forensic pathologist, it's her job to find justice for victims who are unable to speak for themselves. So when the sexy FBI agent she worked with a few months ago asks her to consult on a particularly disturbing case in Colorado, she can't bring herself to say no.
He lives to bring killers to justice.
FBI Special Agent Noah Killion has come face-to-face with evil before, but nothing like the killer he's up against now. With a monster terrorizing his city, he and his team will use every resource they have at their disposal to stop him. Including the beautiful, brilliant doctor he can't seem to forget.
The man they're hunting wants one more trophy for his collection.
Working together again, the chemistry between Maggie and Noah becomes impossible to deny. While on the hunt for a killer, they find themselves falling hard and fast for one another. And when the monster in their sights becomes fixated on Maggie, Noah vows to keep the woman he's falling in love with safe...or die trying.
202 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 31, 2021
1049 people are currently reading
536 people want to read
About the author
Anna Blakely
59 books995 followersAuthor of the exciting R.I.S.C. Series, Anna Blakely brings you stories of love, action, and edge of your seat suspense. As an avid reader herself, Anna writes what she loves...strong, Alpha heroes and the intelligent, independent heroines they love.
Anna's dream is to create stories her readers will enjoy, and characters they'll fall in love with as much as she has. She believes in true love and Happily Ever After, which is what she will bring to you.
Anna lives in rural Missouri with her husband and children, as well as several rescued animals. When she's not writing, Anna enjoys reading, watching action and horror movies (the scarier the better), and spending time with her amazing family.
Anna's dream is to create stories her readers will enjoy, and characters they'll fall in love with as much as she has. She believes in true love and Happily Ever After, which is what she will bring to you.
Anna lives in rural Missouri with her husband and children, as well as several rescued animals. When she's not writing, Anna enjoys reading, watching action and horror movies (the scarier the better), and spending time with her amazing family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 124 reviews
April 24, 2023
3.5 stars rounded down
Marked for Death was a quick read with a strong suspenseful element and a little low on romance (for me). Noah (H) and Maggie (h) were likable and appealing main characters. Noah's an FBI agent in Denver and Maggie's a medical examiner in Texas. There's also an age gap that's mentioned but doesn't impact the characters or the story (he's 46 and she's 32 I think). They worked together on a case which was in a previous book in a prior series and were attracted to each other, but didn't pursue anything because of timing and distance. Then a serial killer is found in Denver and Noah gets approval to have Maggie come in and assist. There's the mystery and danger of an active serial killer and the question of when the H and h will take that dive into their mutual interest. Written in third person, multi-POV including side characters like the villain. No ow/om drama and neither are virgins (both have been celibate for a while and neither has been interested in anyone since meeting).
I really wanted the romance to have more of an on-page spotlight for this story. I liked what was there, but also felt let down. I kept looking at the time left in the book and wondering how the romance was going to be developed with the time left. From what's shared, Noah and Maggie didn't open up to each other much in the previous book, yet even though this is a slow burn, once they do share more about themselves and lean into their mutual attraction, each feels love so fast. I think there was just one steamy scene and then a couple others referred to and while I thought it was well-written, I'm greedy and I wanted more.
Regarding the serial killer, he starts toying with the investigators so the book has some twists and turns for that plot line. There's danger and not everyone involved comes out completely unscathed (but no major character deaths). Side characters that I assume also have books were introduced including another FBI agent, a local police officer, and a PI/club owner. Each of those men had some interesting characteristics but not much was given about them, just a taste.
The story ends in what I'd call a HFN ending of them in love, happy, and together but I wanted an epilogue or another chapter of what their life would be when they weren't chasing a serial killer around the city. I liked the author's overall writing style and I would try more books of hers. I just was left wanting a bit more at the end of this.
Marked for Death was a quick read with a strong suspenseful element and a little low on romance (for me). Noah (H) and Maggie (h) were likable and appealing main characters. Noah's an FBI agent in Denver and Maggie's a medical examiner in Texas. There's also an age gap that's mentioned but doesn't impact the characters or the story (he's 46 and she's 32 I think). They worked together on a case which was in a previous book in a prior series and were attracted to each other, but didn't pursue anything because of timing and distance. Then a serial killer is found in Denver and Noah gets approval to have Maggie come in and assist. There's the mystery and danger of an active serial killer and the question of when the H and h will take that dive into their mutual interest. Written in third person, multi-POV including side characters like the villain. No ow/om drama and neither are virgins (both have been celibate for a while and neither has been interested in anyone since meeting).
I really wanted the romance to have more of an on-page spotlight for this story. I liked what was there, but also felt let down. I kept looking at the time left in the book and wondering how the romance was going to be developed with the time left. From what's shared, Noah and Maggie didn't open up to each other much in the previous book, yet even though this is a slow burn, once they do share more about themselves and lean into their mutual attraction, each feels love so fast. I think there was just one steamy scene and then a couple others referred to and while I thought it was well-written, I'm greedy and I wanted more.
Regarding the serial killer, he starts toying with the investigators so the book has some twists and turns for that plot line. There's danger and not everyone involved comes out completely unscathed (but no major character deaths). Side characters that I assume also have books were introduced including another FBI agent, a local police officer, and a PI/club owner. Each of those men had some interesting characteristics but not much was given about them, just a taste.
The story ends in what I'd call a HFN ending of them in love, happy, and together but I wanted an epilogue or another chapter of what their life would be when they weren't chasing a serial killer around the city. I liked the author's overall writing style and I would try more books of hers. I just was left wanting a bit more at the end of this.
October 31, 2021
Noah and Maggie
I enjoyed this first of a new series. We have met Maggie and Noah before. This is kind of a second chance, slow burn story. There’s lots of twists and turns. It was a fast read. HEA and nice introduction to Wade, who’s story is up next.
I enjoyed this first of a new series. We have met Maggie and Noah before. This is kind of a second chance, slow burn story. There’s lots of twists and turns. It was a fast read. HEA and nice introduction to Wade, who’s story is up next.
November 2, 2021
First, let me start off by saying I enjoyed this book. I like Maggie and Noah. However, let me explain the reason for 4 stars:
1. With this being a new series, I felt like the secondary characters were glossed over. I didn’t feel like there was a lot described with Wade and Jax. Hopefully they’ll be more description in their own books.
2. The ending could have been so much more. It seemed rushed and just kind of abruptly ended.
Overall, a good read. Ms. Blakely is still one of my favorite authors. I just wanted more. And definitely looking forward to the next book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1. With this being a new series, I felt like the secondary characters were glossed over. I didn’t feel like there was a lot described with Wade and Jax. Hopefully they’ll be more description in their own books.
2. The ending could have been so much more. It seemed rushed and just kind of abruptly ended.
Overall, a good read. Ms. Blakely is still one of my favorite authors. I just wanted more. And definitely looking forward to the next book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 27, 2022
I can't remember who it was on the FB Protector Romance page, but I want to thank whoever recommended that I try Anna Blakely. I know I'm not starting with her first book, but I did start with the first book of her "Marked" series, and I intend to read all of them as they become available.
A hot, sexy, smart, protective hero. An even smarter, brave heroine. A great mystery (He's an FBI agent, and she's the M.E. looking into a serial killer who decided he wanted to show off how smart he was by challenging both their deductive abilities and their safety.) I suspected who the killer was, but I didn't mind at all because I was swept up into a wonderful cast of characters, a dangerous, twisty mystery, some tense action and a sweet, slightly steamy love story between two characters who mistakenly think they can't be together because of their careers and the fact they live in two different states. But they clear an innocent man, they get the bad guy, they save the heroine, the loyalty among a "team" of friends is solidified--even though a few characters are a little worse for wear by the end--and there's a satisfying HEA.
I've been struggling to find some new authors who write gripping romantic suspense in the third person, and Anna Blakely is a hit for me! I love when I read a story and find myself looking forward to supporting characters finding their HEAs in future books. So, again, thank you for the recommendation!
A hot, sexy, smart, protective hero. An even smarter, brave heroine. A great mystery (He's an FBI agent, and she's the M.E. looking into a serial killer who decided he wanted to show off how smart he was by challenging both their deductive abilities and their safety.) I suspected who the killer was, but I didn't mind at all because I was swept up into a wonderful cast of characters, a dangerous, twisty mystery, some tense action and a sweet, slightly steamy love story between two characters who mistakenly think they can't be together because of their careers and the fact they live in two different states. But they clear an innocent man, they get the bad guy, they save the heroine, the loyalty among a "team" of friends is solidified--even though a few characters are a little worse for wear by the end--and there's a satisfying HEA.
I've been struggling to find some new authors who write gripping romantic suspense in the third person, and Anna Blakely is a hit for me! I love when I read a story and find myself looking forward to supporting characters finding their HEAs in future books. So, again, thank you for the recommendation!
August 31, 2022
Marked for Death certainly lives up to its Romance Suspense Thriller tags. Anna Blakely will have you on the edge of your seat a lot as the story unfolds. There's definitely a lot of anticipating of what will happen next. A serial killer has the police and the FBI running in circles, chasing down leads and getting nowhere. Noah Killian and Maggie Cartwright had a palpable connection when he helped rescue her. But they live and work in different states and time has seemingly cooled their connection. At least what they individually think. He may have an ulterior motive calling her for assistance as both an M.E. and forensic pathologist. It definitely not professional. As the work together to find an ever escalating murderer it becomes more and more apparent these two belong together.
June 22, 2023
I borrowed Marked for Death: A Sexy FBI Suspense Thriller Romance ~ Marked ~ Book 1, by Anna Blakely from the Kindle Unlimited Program.
FBI Special Agent Noah Killion first met Dr. Maggie Cartwright, forensic pathologist in Dallas six months earlier when he was working with R.I.S.C on a serial killer case. He has another serial killer case in Denver and calls Maggie to help.
His team and Maggie work to find the serial killer with six bodies found in open graves, then another woman killed, the framing of his partner Wade, a boom attempt, and a very clever killer and a surprise ending. The romance is hot too between Noah and Maggie.
FBI Special Agent Noah Killion first met Dr. Maggie Cartwright, forensic pathologist in Dallas six months earlier when he was working with R.I.S.C on a serial killer case. He has another serial killer case in Denver and calls Maggie to help.
His team and Maggie work to find the serial killer with six bodies found in open graves, then another woman killed, the framing of his partner Wade, a boom attempt, and a very clever killer and a surprise ending. The romance is hot too between Noah and Maggie.
November 27, 2025
dreadful but I had a great time
April 23, 2022
Her name is different in the blurb, spelling mistakes, and missing words.
Oh I’m laughing a lot now!!! I couldn’t remember Maggie’s surname, so I went to the blurb and read Dr Maggie Carpenter. Erm I’m sure she wasn’t called that, so I checked in the book and it’s Dr Maggie CARTWRIGHT!!! NOT MUCH DIFFERENCE!!! That is so bad!!
This book was so boring. After getting past the stupid errors, plot holes, and spelling mistakes it was boring!! The sex was boring, the serial killer that should have been scary, wasn’t.
FBI agent Noah Killian, calls in Dr Cartwright/Carpenter when six bodies are found and they desperately need help. Noah and Maggie have met before, they both like each other but for whatever reason, neither of them pursues it. When they are thrown together on the case they fall in love. (and that’s boring too.) The killer is really really clever and they have no clue who it is, as there’s no evidence anywhere. I’m not a detective but they seem to miss a lot in their investigation. Then there’s a ludicrous plot of a detective being set up, with really flimsy evidence against him, he’s going to be charged with their murders! 😂😂😂😂 It’s just ridiculous. Terrible.
Oh I’m laughing a lot now!!! I couldn’t remember Maggie’s surname, so I went to the blurb and read Dr Maggie Carpenter. Erm I’m sure she wasn’t called that, so I checked in the book and it’s Dr Maggie CARTWRIGHT!!! NOT MUCH DIFFERENCE!!! That is so bad!!
This book was so boring. After getting past the stupid errors, plot holes, and spelling mistakes it was boring!! The sex was boring, the serial killer that should have been scary, wasn’t.
FBI agent Noah Killian, calls in Dr Cartwright/Carpenter when six bodies are found and they desperately need help. Noah and Maggie have met before, they both like each other but for whatever reason, neither of them pursues it. When they are thrown together on the case they fall in love. (and that’s boring too.) The killer is really really clever and they have no clue who it is, as there’s no evidence anywhere. I’m not a detective but they seem to miss a lot in their investigation. Then there’s a ludicrous plot of a detective being set up, with really flimsy evidence against him, he’s going to be charged with their murders! 😂😂😂😂 It’s just ridiculous. Terrible.
October 10, 2022
Flew through it
This was a great read. Maggie is a strong and charismatic lead for the story and had a hand in solving the case. All the FBI agents, PI and detectives were well developed and full of personality. I enjoyed the case, the banter and the team development. The ending was predictable, as was the serial killer, but I was surprised by the second villain and truly enjoyed the story and want to read more about this unit and other characters!
This was a great read. Maggie is a strong and charismatic lead for the story and had a hand in solving the case. All the FBI agents, PI and detectives were well developed and full of personality. I enjoyed the case, the banter and the team development. The ending was predictable, as was the serial killer, but I was surprised by the second villain and truly enjoyed the story and want to read more about this unit and other characters!
December 12, 2022
Marked for Death
Wow! What a fantastic story by Anna! This story is about Noah and Maggie. This story was intense right from the beginning. It gets really intense towards the end. The villain was a total shocker! I did not expect that. FANTASTIC job Anna! I would recommend this book!
Wow! What a fantastic story by Anna! This story is about Noah and Maggie. This story was intense right from the beginning. It gets really intense towards the end. The villain was a total shocker! I did not expect that. FANTASTIC job Anna! I would recommend this book!
February 9, 2022
The chemistry between Dr. Maggie Carpenter and Special Agent Noah Killion that we first saw in Savage Risk was definitely noteworthy, and I was hoping for a long time that they would get their own book. They finally did, and it didn't disappoint!
With Maggie being a medical examiner in Dallas, and Noah a FBI agent all the way in Colorado, they haven't seen each other since Noah left to go back to Colorado after helping with a serial killer case in Dallas. But now, there has been a new disturbing serial killer case in Colorado, and Noah requests the help of Maggie. When Maggie arrives in Colorado, they not only realize this serial killer is playing a very serious game and the body count keeps climbing, but Noah and Maggie also discover the attraction that they shared in Dallas is still there between them, and is stronger than ever.
Brilliantly suspenseful, tension builds as Noah & Maggie realize the killer is playing with them and now has Maggie in his sights. Nearly losing her once, Noah is determined to keep her safe, but can he solve this mystery in time? The chemistry that Noah and Maggie shared was amazing, I couldn't put this book down. I was pleasantly surprised who the killer turned out to be, it made me really think and I was happy that I didn't know who it was until the end of the book and it wasn't predictable. I also really enjoyed the secondary characters, Wade and Jax and am hoping they both get their own books in the future!
With Maggie being a medical examiner in Dallas, and Noah a FBI agent all the way in Colorado, they haven't seen each other since Noah left to go back to Colorado after helping with a serial killer case in Dallas. But now, there has been a new disturbing serial killer case in Colorado, and Noah requests the help of Maggie. When Maggie arrives in Colorado, they not only realize this serial killer is playing a very serious game and the body count keeps climbing, but Noah and Maggie also discover the attraction that they shared in Dallas is still there between them, and is stronger than ever.
Brilliantly suspenseful, tension builds as Noah & Maggie realize the killer is playing with them and now has Maggie in his sights. Nearly losing her once, Noah is determined to keep her safe, but can he solve this mystery in time? The chemistry that Noah and Maggie shared was amazing, I couldn't put this book down. I was pleasantly surprised who the killer turned out to be, it made me really think and I was happy that I didn't know who it was until the end of the book and it wasn't predictable. I also really enjoyed the secondary characters, Wade and Jax and am hoping they both get their own books in the future!
October 30, 2021
The chemistry that first sparked between Medical Examiner Dr Maggie Carpenter & FBI Special Agent Noah Killion when they appeared as supporting characters in Savage Risk gets its chance to take root in Marked for Death the first book in Anna Blakely’s exciting new series. Fans of CSI and everything forensic will love this story.
Noah requests Maggie’s specialist help on a disturbing case in Colorado and the pair discover the attraction they felt but didn’t act on from months ago is still there and growing as they work together to solve the case and catch the killer.
Brilliantly suspenseful, the tension builds as Noah & Maggie realise the killer is playing with them and now has Maggie in his sights, having nearly lost her once Noah is determined to keep her safe but can he put the pieces together in time? Loved the forensic side of this story and the painstaking search for clues alongside the increasing awareness between Noah & Maggie of their feelings for each other. There is plenty to keep you guessing and gripped and I was completely invested in trying to work out who the killer is.
A great plot and fabulous start to what promises to be an excellent and addictive series!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Noah requests Maggie’s specialist help on a disturbing case in Colorado and the pair discover the attraction they felt but didn’t act on from months ago is still there and growing as they work together to solve the case and catch the killer.
Brilliantly suspenseful, the tension builds as Noah & Maggie realise the killer is playing with them and now has Maggie in his sights, having nearly lost her once Noah is determined to keep her safe but can he put the pieces together in time? Loved the forensic side of this story and the painstaking search for clues alongside the increasing awareness between Noah & Maggie of their feelings for each other. There is plenty to keep you guessing and gripped and I was completely invested in trying to work out who the killer is.
A great plot and fabulous start to what promises to be an excellent and addictive series!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 10, 2023
Book 1. Nice quick read which I enjoy. I liked the characters Maggie and Noah, they are so sweet together. There was mention of a case they worked together before, so I’m not sure if there is another book in one of the other series where this is expanded on. I think this is my first book by this author so I wasn’t aware of their backstory. Having said that, you can definitely read this one without reading any other book if there is one.
I liked the storyline and the drama with just the right amount of romance for me, it is not over the top.
Maggie, our beautiful forensic pathologist speaks for the dead and tries to get them the ustice they deserve, our hero Noah is an FBI agent looking to bring some to justice (the book/premise reminded me a bit of Bones and Booth with a touch of Rizzoli and Isles - both of which I just loved). Noah asks Maggie to come to Denver to help him and the bureau with a gruesome case. Maggie is smart and strong with a traumatic past that we just know the killer is going to set their sights on so its just a matter of how our hero Noah comes to her rescue.
I did feel like the ending was a little rushed and must admit I thought “is that it”. But I did like our characters get their ‘ever after’ moment and now I’m on to book 2.
I liked the storyline and the drama with just the right amount of romance for me, it is not over the top.
Maggie, our beautiful forensic pathologist speaks for the dead and tries to get them the ustice they deserve, our hero Noah is an FBI agent looking to bring some to justice (the book/premise reminded me a bit of Bones and Booth with a touch of Rizzoli and Isles - both of which I just loved). Noah asks Maggie to come to Denver to help him and the bureau with a gruesome case. Maggie is smart and strong with a traumatic past that we just know the killer is going to set their sights on so its just a matter of how our hero Noah comes to her rescue.
I did feel like the ending was a little rushed and must admit I thought “is that it”. But I did like our characters get their ‘ever after’ moment and now I’m on to book 2.
April 8, 2023
Another good book from an author who has recent made her way to my "must click" list. Here, we have medical examiner Maggie and FBI detective Noah, working desperately to find a killer who's been taunting a community. The two met in a previous novel (in a previous series, to be more specific) and had a definite connection, but for various reasons never sealed the deal.
Maggie is the kind of heroine I like the most: smart, strong, and confident. Noah isn't too bad himself; I love a hero who loves confidence and smarts in a woman. There's a cast of secondary characters who are likely future protagonists as well.
The suspense is played out well, though my early suspicions proved true. What was missing for me was the motive. I mean, the killer spouts it out in typical fashion during the climax, but I never really understood why the killer chose those specific victims. I also felt it was a little rushed in the end. Overall, though, it's a mostly well-paced adventure.
I received a copy of this book for free. I'm writing this review voluntarily, and it reflects my honest opinion. Thanks!
Maggie is the kind of heroine I like the most: smart, strong, and confident. Noah isn't too bad himself; I love a hero who loves confidence and smarts in a woman. There's a cast of secondary characters who are likely future protagonists as well.
The suspense is played out well, though my early suspicions proved true. What was missing for me was the motive. I mean, the killer spouts it out in typical fashion during the climax, but I never really understood why the killer chose those specific victims. I also felt it was a little rushed in the end. Overall, though, it's a mostly well-paced adventure.
I received a copy of this book for free. I'm writing this review voluntarily, and it reflects my honest opinion. Thanks!
October 31, 2021
What a great start to a new series!!
FBI Special Agent Noah Killion was a great book boyfriend. He was smart, loyal, protective to both family and friends/coworkers and sexy to boot. He just as a swagger about him that you could feel through the book as a reader. I liked that he was written in a way that you could feel his anger and frustration while dealing with this case. You could also feel how much he was holding back his feelings for Maggie.
Dr. Maggie Carpenter was an amazing female lead. She was caring, compassionate, smart, determined and willing to go the extra mile to find justice for the people that couldn't. I also liked that she was written in a way that made her not only a smart/capable woman who can be respected in her line of work but also be sexy. Most books I've read, the woman is portrayal one way or the other and not both.
The case had me on the edge of my seat and did throw me for a loop. The banter between the two leads was amazing and the sexy times were out of this world!!!
FBI Special Agent Noah Killion was a great book boyfriend. He was smart, loyal, protective to both family and friends/coworkers and sexy to boot. He just as a swagger about him that you could feel through the book as a reader. I liked that he was written in a way that you could feel his anger and frustration while dealing with this case. You could also feel how much he was holding back his feelings for Maggie.
Dr. Maggie Carpenter was an amazing female lead. She was caring, compassionate, smart, determined and willing to go the extra mile to find justice for the people that couldn't. I also liked that she was written in a way that made her not only a smart/capable woman who can be respected in her line of work but also be sexy. Most books I've read, the woman is portrayal one way or the other and not both.
The case had me on the edge of my seat and did throw me for a loop. The banter between the two leads was amazing and the sexy times were out of this world!!!
January 7, 2026
I did enjoy this book. It has it's positives and was well written. I like Maggie and Noah, and it was a good suspense. However, it also left much to be desired, before I would go with 5 stars.
With this being a new series, I expected more depth and development of the side characters and the world they live in. I wanted to get to know them and feel more attached to them so I'd want to continue on and get their story. They were all fairly glossed over. I didn’t feel like there was a lot described with Wade and Jax. Hopefully there’ll be more description in their own books.
The romance in this also seemed highly lacking. There was maybe one light spicey scene in the later pages, but it felt like it went from super slow burn pining to lets get married in 1.2 chapters. Again, very glossed over for me. I wanted to enjoy more of their love for one another once admitted to each other.
Overall I liked it, and I'll be reading on. I just hope for a little more substance in the next book.
With this being a new series, I expected more depth and development of the side characters and the world they live in. I wanted to get to know them and feel more attached to them so I'd want to continue on and get their story. They were all fairly glossed over. I didn’t feel like there was a lot described with Wade and Jax. Hopefully there’ll be more description in their own books.
The romance in this also seemed highly lacking. There was maybe one light spicey scene in the later pages, but it felt like it went from super slow burn pining to lets get married in 1.2 chapters. Again, very glossed over for me. I wanted to enjoy more of their love for one another once admitted to each other.
Overall I liked it, and I'll be reading on. I just hope for a little more substance in the next book.
March 14, 2022
Soooo I was slightly dissapointed... I love Anna's books because of the strong start for both plot and MCs connection/involvment... in this case the connection was missing a little bit at the beginning, even though they've known each other before this book happen, their romantic involvment started quite late in the book and I was expecting something else, especially with story shorter than usual. It felt much more suspense than romance this time. Other than that, I knew from the very beggining who the killer was, so no suspense for me, but I'm ok with that ;)
Nevertheless book is as always very well written, plot is exciting, it could definitely be longer a bit cause imho the ending was a little bit rushed, but those are just details. And for those for whom it might be important it's more HFN than HEA (there is no epilogue), but for sure we will see them happy in the next books in the series, as it always happens in her books :)
Nevertheless book is as always very well written, plot is exciting, it could definitely be longer a bit cause imho the ending was a little bit rushed, but those are just details. And for those for whom it might be important it's more HFN than HEA (there is no epilogue), but for sure we will see them happy in the next books in the series, as it always happens in her books :)
February 12, 2023
Wow this book was a fun ride! I loved the characters and their development. Maggie is a strong, smart woman who has been through an ordeal. Noah is good at his job and protective of Maggie but not too much. They work together, along with the FBI, to find a serial killer and boy oh boy is it quite the ride. I love a good twist and this book kept me wondering how it would end until the last chapter. There was a little bit of steam towards the end but mostly a lot of slow burn but it was so good.
There was a perfect balance of the dual POV and a really good amount of introducing the other characters that will be seen throughout the rest of the series. I like when authors find the right balance of that to make you want to find out what happens with those characters.
Anyway, to summarize....great plot, twists, mystery, slow burn and steam. A HEA to wrap up and thrilling ride. I only wish the story had been longer because I miss them already.
There was a perfect balance of the dual POV and a really good amount of introducing the other characters that will be seen throughout the rest of the series. I like when authors find the right balance of that to make you want to find out what happens with those characters.
Anyway, to summarize....great plot, twists, mystery, slow burn and steam. A HEA to wrap up and thrilling ride. I only wish the story had been longer because I miss them already.
October 9, 2023
Predictable, no depth, no substance, every character is flat. All the women are beautiful and smart, all the men are hot, without any other quality or flaw added to their personalities, to make them human.
The main female character is supposed to be this highly intelligent M.E., who's brought along to help with a case, as only she is able to perform routine autopsies, for whatever reason. Her skills do nothing for the story, she is not able to find anything which would move the story forward, she is nothing more than a mediocre M.E., who has fallen for the sexy FBI agent, who's either angry or turned on.
The writing is simple, the choices made by the characters make no sense, they are running around from place to place, with stuff happening to them. They do not make use of the tools a powerful institution like the FBI I assume has at its disposal, they are quite mediocre at their jobs and it's fairly easy to single the killer out.
The main female character is supposed to be this highly intelligent M.E., who's brought along to help with a case, as only she is able to perform routine autopsies, for whatever reason. Her skills do nothing for the story, she is not able to find anything which would move the story forward, she is nothing more than a mediocre M.E., who has fallen for the sexy FBI agent, who's either angry or turned on.
The writing is simple, the choices made by the characters make no sense, they are running around from place to place, with stuff happening to them. They do not make use of the tools a powerful institution like the FBI I assume has at its disposal, they are quite mediocre at their jobs and it's fairly easy to single the killer out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 7, 2023
2 ⭐
Too much explaining happens. Their back story is pretty weak and the MC only makes his 'move' around 56% ish of the story after the killer makes himself known he's watching. Their love story is kind of slow burn-ish and insta-love. Who the hell professed their love after having sex two days after? And don't get me started on the proposal. The time line isn't mathematics-ing and basically a red flg 🚩.
The set up was good but ended abruptly. The tension was building up and suddenly plunge. Finding out who's the killer is probably the easiest since hints were dropped here and there, pointing out that person. The ending was anticlimactic and I wish Anna gives justice for their love story as we are focusing too much on finding out the killer. Its basically non-existent and happens somewhere in someone else's book.
Too much explaining happens. Their back story is pretty weak and the MC only makes his 'move' around 56% ish of the story after the killer makes himself known he's watching. Their love story is kind of slow burn-ish and insta-love. Who the hell professed their love after having sex two days after? And don't get me started on the proposal. The time line isn't mathematics-ing and basically a red flg 🚩.
The set up was good but ended abruptly. The tension was building up and suddenly plunge. Finding out who's the killer is probably the easiest since hints were dropped here and there, pointing out that person. The ending was anticlimactic and I wish Anna gives justice for their love story as we are focusing too much on finding out the killer. Its basically non-existent and happens somewhere in someone else's book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 6, 2021
So I was sad to see this author's previous series end, but also excited when this series was announced. Noah and Maggie have this chemistry right from the start but honestly, it was the suspense of the story that kept me reading and wanting to know more! There are a lot of twists and turns and just things that I wasn't expecting to happen. But man, it was soo good!! Not only is there a great plot to draw you in but then you back it up with this great couple. This is definitely a second chance type of story, but there is so much more to it than that. So not only did I get invested in the story and the relationship, but I also loved the side characters and can't wait to see where their stories will take us! A beautiful start to a new series!
December 10, 2021
I was looking forward to the beginning of this new series and Marked for Death did not disappoint! We met the main characters FBI agent Noah Killion and forensic pathologist Dr. Maggie Carpenter in Savage Risk and I enjoyed that story so much that I was glad to see these characters get their own story. Noah is tracking a serial killer and calls Maggie in to help assist them in the hunt. Noah has had a long distance crush on Maggie ever since he met her and given the opportunity he would like to see if the feeling is mutual. Maggie feels the same way about Noah but first there is a case to solve. The clock is ticking and who will be the next victim? Marked for Death kept me glued to the pages. It was told from dual POV and had action, suspense, intrigue and a bit of heat.
November 1, 2021
Trouble in Dead Man's Land!
Fantastic launch for this new series, Maggie and Noah are explosive, with chemistry dripping from every page, even when they are in the shadows of a serial killer. One who's darkness and depravity seeps into your soul, stealing your breath and sending chills down your spine, one who is just waiting for his chance, his moment, to make his final move.
I loved the twists, turns and traps the killer sets but I also like the wide range of characters and personalities that pull together to solve this crime. I cannot wait for many more books in this series, Wade is next but I am hoping Dec and Jax get their books too. I read this on Kindle Unlimited.
Fantastic launch for this new series, Maggie and Noah are explosive, with chemistry dripping from every page, even when they are in the shadows of a serial killer. One who's darkness and depravity seeps into your soul, stealing your breath and sending chills down your spine, one who is just waiting for his chance, his moment, to make his final move.
I loved the twists, turns and traps the killer sets but I also like the wide range of characters and personalities that pull together to solve this crime. I cannot wait for many more books in this series, Wade is next but I am hoping Dec and Jax get their books too. I read this on Kindle Unlimited.
November 3, 2021
What a rollercoaster of a read, full of suspense, very few leads and boy that last few chapters were a knuckleride in themselves. Exciting and thrilling new series that kept my focus and interest as well as keeping me guessing to the end, even then there was a twist I almost missed. I'm glad to say I did get it right though. Loved the main characters and Wade, well I look forward to his story, both he and Maggie went through quite a bit in this one. Wonderful plot, fast pace and well written. The complexity of certain parts I know took the author a lot of research and work but so paid off. Started and finished 3/11/21
December 20, 2021
Getting the Chance!
Marked for Death: WOW! Action Packed! Very Hot! Fantastic character and a hot romance! I liked that neither Noah or Maggie could stop thing about each other! They work well as a team at work and outside of work. Even though they live states apart there was always a chance at helping each other out on a case. Noah needed her expects on the case they were working on so she came and help with the big challenge. They kept making excuses about the sparks they each had. They kept saying after the case was solved. Excellent, exciting and amazing! Loved it!
Marked for Death: WOW! Action Packed! Very Hot! Fantastic character and a hot romance! I liked that neither Noah or Maggie could stop thing about each other! They work well as a team at work and outside of work. Even though they live states apart there was always a chance at helping each other out on a case. Noah needed her expects on the case they were working on so she came and help with the big challenge. They kept making excuses about the sparks they each had. They kept saying after the case was solved. Excellent, exciting and amazing! Loved it!
October 31, 2023
Dead bodies have been found in graves in Colorado. FBI agent Noah and his partner Wade are lead investigators. Their medical examiner is out so Noah recommends Maggie. Maggie is a forensic pathologist in Dallas and recently worked a case with Noah.
Working together again, they fall harder for each other. Another body shows up and the killer has his sights set on Maggie. But Noah is determined to keep the woman he loves safe.
Great story. I have either read this before or one similar. Friends to lovers. Action. Suspense. A little bit of sex. Serial killer.
* Received a free copy in a newsletter *
Working together again, they fall harder for each other. Another body shows up and the killer has his sights set on Maggie. But Noah is determined to keep the woman he loves safe.
Great story. I have either read this before or one similar. Friends to lovers. Action. Suspense. A little bit of sex. Serial killer.
* Received a free copy in a newsletter *
December 27, 2023
I really wanted to like this book, romance-suspense themes are my favourite. That being said, I felt like it fell a little flat. I really enjoyed this author's writing style, but felt like the book fell short on the "romance" front. The H and h were both likeable, but had minimal chemistry, and after a glossed over single sex scene and then "2 days had passed", all of a sudden they love each other? It was a bit hasty in my opinion for them to have escalated so quickly in their "relationship" and I would've liked to see more development. The suspense aspect of the book was good, I love a "whodunnit", and it was a quick read.
January 9, 2024
2 stars
I really don't like giving a book 2 stars, however, I'm always in awe of anyone who writes, finishes and publishes their creation, so kudos to Ms Blakely for that.
Why the low rating? Mostly, it was a matter of substance, or the lack of it. It was very much a 'This happened. And then this happened. Then he said, etc.'. There was no inner dialogue of characters, no descriptions, no diversity of characters or plot and the mystery was incredibly flawed. Trained FBI agents missed the obvious and nothing they did made sense.
Finally, after two days, the main couple were head over heels in love with each other and it was totally unbelievable.
I really don't like giving a book 2 stars, however, I'm always in awe of anyone who writes, finishes and publishes their creation, so kudos to Ms Blakely for that.
Why the low rating? Mostly, it was a matter of substance, or the lack of it. It was very much a 'This happened. And then this happened. Then he said, etc.'. There was no inner dialogue of characters, no descriptions, no diversity of characters or plot and the mystery was incredibly flawed. Trained FBI agents missed the obvious and nothing they did made sense.
Finally, after two days, the main couple were head over heels in love with each other and it was totally unbelievable.
November 1, 2021
Noah and Maggie, we met them in the end of the R.I.S.C. series. This new first chapter in this series is just as great. Leaves you on the edge of your seat, another great villain revealed, actually I was guessing a few times throughout that maybe this person could be the bad guy, no wait, it's this person. Definitely kept me on my toes and turning the pages as fast as I could. A few new interesting side characters introduced and I hope there are plans for a book for them too! I enjoyed this read.
I voluntarily reviewed this book.
I voluntarily reviewed this book.
November 2, 2021
Have mercy
Ok readers stop what you are doing right now and read this book. Holy ##$% balls its ahmazing. We met Noah and Maggie in RISC and damn has that sexual tension been simmering. Well all it takes is a serial killer showing of his work to bring these 2 face to face again!! Man I thought my kindle would catch on fire!! Also we meet more hot alpha men that hopefully will get there own books. Please Anna!!!! Anyway read it I was hooked from page one can't wait for the next one!!!!!!
Ok readers stop what you are doing right now and read this book. Holy ##$% balls its ahmazing. We met Noah and Maggie in RISC and damn has that sexual tension been simmering. Well all it takes is a serial killer showing of his work to bring these 2 face to face again!! Man I thought my kindle would catch on fire!! Also we meet more hot alpha men that hopefully will get there own books. Please Anna!!!! Anyway read it I was hooked from page one can't wait for the next one!!!!!!
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