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Traffic: A page-turning mystery series
Here's what readers are "Loved the way Ronnie Lake put the pieces together."
"Ronnie Lake is a great character. Smart, courageous, capable and driven to solve mysteries...will keep you turning pages fast. Highly recommended."
A violent kidnapping, an unlikely suspect...whose side is private eye Ronnie Lake on?
PI Ronnie Lake can't seem to avoid danger, especially if she's in the right place at the very wrong time. When she witnesses the violent kidnapping of wealthy, young sisters in Manhattan, everything she knows about solving a case will be tested.
Step by step, Ronnie peels back one layer at a time until she discovers that Daddy Dearest invests in all kinds of cargo…especially the human kind. This compels her to dive further into this bleak, seedy world. The pressure’s on for her to find the victims before they disappear forever into the human trafficking pipeline in the fifth stand-alone title in the Ronnie Lake Series.
If you like suspenseful plots, unexpected twists, and spirited heroines, then you'll love Niki Danforth's page-turning thriller.
Read Traffic to unravel the mystery of this all-too-common, unthinkable hellscape.
Praise from more readers of Danforth's "This book brought me back to all the hours spent with a Sue Grafton book, following the life and adventures of Kinsey Millhone."
"…a well-crafted detective novel."
"Fabulous suspenseful story...Niki Danforth is the new James Patterson!"
"Ronnie Lake is a great character. Smart, courageous, capable and driven to solve mysteries...will keep you turning pages fast. Highly recommended."
A violent kidnapping, an unlikely suspect...whose side is private eye Ronnie Lake on?
PI Ronnie Lake can't seem to avoid danger, especially if she's in the right place at the very wrong time. When she witnesses the violent kidnapping of wealthy, young sisters in Manhattan, everything she knows about solving a case will be tested.
Step by step, Ronnie peels back one layer at a time until she discovers that Daddy Dearest invests in all kinds of cargo…especially the human kind. This compels her to dive further into this bleak, seedy world. The pressure’s on for her to find the victims before they disappear forever into the human trafficking pipeline in the fifth stand-alone title in the Ronnie Lake Series.
If you like suspenseful plots, unexpected twists, and spirited heroines, then you'll love Niki Danforth's page-turning thriller.
Read Traffic to unravel the mystery of this all-too-common, unthinkable hellscape.
Praise from more readers of Danforth's "This book brought me back to all the hours spent with a Sue Grafton book, following the life and adventures of Kinsey Millhone."
"…a well-crafted detective novel."
"Fabulous suspenseful story...Niki Danforth is the new James Patterson!"
296 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 26, 2021
About the author
Niki Danforth
16 books44 followersNiki Danforth, daughter of a Cold War covert intelligence officer, has the "thriller/adventure" gene in her DNA. After a career as a successful TV/video producer and director in New York, this empty-nester is picking up her first love of mystery books and recreating herself as an author in the genre. Danforth lives in the New Jersey countryside with her husband and two drama-queen dogs.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
July 21, 2023
A Breathtaking Kidnapping Turned Human Trafficking Case
Traffic: A Ronnie Lake Mystery is one of the best stories I have read. This thrilling, suspenseful story creates awareness of human trafficking, forced labor, and modern-day slavery.
The novel features Ronnie, a divorced middle-aged private investigator and mom of two. Ronnie accidentally meets Samantha, a college girl working as a part-time messenger going about her errands on her bike. Ronnie walks onto the road, still distracted by her experience with a cab driver who struggled to snatch a lost bag she found in his car and causes Samantha to crush her bike as she avoids heating Ronnie. Ronnie offers to help Samantha out of guilt for causing her accident. She declines, but Ronnie gives her contact. Coincidentally, Samantha receives a text from her best friend Marisa, who was kidnapped alongside her younger step-sister Natalia asking for help. Samantha later asks Ronnie for help, and she unthinkingly agrees to help out of guilt without full disclosure of the situation.
The two get on a mission to investigate and follow leads to rescue the sisters from kidnappers. I like the turn of events when Ronnie and Samantha find Marisa and her sister only to discover that the kidnappers were victims of their father's trafficking syndicate who left their countries searching for a better life but ended up as enslaved people sold for cheap labor.
Surprisingly, Marisa had been investigating and collecting crucial information that could help rescue the victims. The kidnappers went to Marisa's father's apartment to search for their documents. But Natalia had forgotten her inhaler, and they met the intruders at their house who kidnapped them as they hadn't found their documents. I loved Marisa's courage when she offered to help the trafficking victims secure residence in the country in exchange for giving the authorities incriminating evidence against the father that could help crack his illegal business.
I also love Ronnie's determination and her mother's instinct that pushed her to help the girls. The suspense in the story keeps me on a reading spree, and I ended up finishing the book in two days. I enjoyed the turn of events and how Ronnie reached out to her mentor, Will, who helped coordinate with government agencies and Marisa to ensure her bargain was achieved.
The seamless teamwork is impressive as they help rescue all the victims. Also, this allows Ronnie to get along with Rossi. Ronnie successfully helps Marissa end the trafficking network of her father and discovers that Natalia's mother is still alive. I enjoyed reading this book more than I had expected.
I would recommend the book to all mystery lovers and human rights enthusiasts.
Traffic: A Ronnie Lake Mystery is one of the best stories I have read. This thrilling, suspenseful story creates awareness of human trafficking, forced labor, and modern-day slavery.
The novel features Ronnie, a divorced middle-aged private investigator and mom of two. Ronnie accidentally meets Samantha, a college girl working as a part-time messenger going about her errands on her bike. Ronnie walks onto the road, still distracted by her experience with a cab driver who struggled to snatch a lost bag she found in his car and causes Samantha to crush her bike as she avoids heating Ronnie. Ronnie offers to help Samantha out of guilt for causing her accident. She declines, but Ronnie gives her contact. Coincidentally, Samantha receives a text from her best friend Marisa, who was kidnapped alongside her younger step-sister Natalia asking for help. Samantha later asks Ronnie for help, and she unthinkingly agrees to help out of guilt without full disclosure of the situation.
The two get on a mission to investigate and follow leads to rescue the sisters from kidnappers. I like the turn of events when Ronnie and Samantha find Marisa and her sister only to discover that the kidnappers were victims of their father's trafficking syndicate who left their countries searching for a better life but ended up as enslaved people sold for cheap labor.
Surprisingly, Marisa had been investigating and collecting crucial information that could help rescue the victims. The kidnappers went to Marisa's father's apartment to search for their documents. But Natalia had forgotten her inhaler, and they met the intruders at their house who kidnapped them as they hadn't found their documents. I loved Marisa's courage when she offered to help the trafficking victims secure residence in the country in exchange for giving the authorities incriminating evidence against the father that could help crack his illegal business.
I also love Ronnie's determination and her mother's instinct that pushed her to help the girls. The suspense in the story keeps me on a reading spree, and I ended up finishing the book in two days. I enjoyed the turn of events and how Ronnie reached out to her mentor, Will, who helped coordinate with government agencies and Marisa to ensure her bargain was achieved.
The seamless teamwork is impressive as they help rescue all the victims. Also, this allows Ronnie to get along with Rossi. Ronnie successfully helps Marissa end the trafficking network of her father and discovers that Natalia's mother is still alive. I enjoyed reading this book more than I had expected.
I would recommend the book to all mystery lovers and human rights enthusiasts.
August 19, 2021
Ronnie Lake, is a modern day sleuth, a strong mother who embraces the love of family and a sense of greater justice. In “Traffic” Ronnie finds herself dragged into the world of human trafficking after a chance encounter with Sam, a young woman desperately seeking her missing friend.
“Traffic” strength lies within its titular character, Ronnie, who exudes strength and confidence. Extremely charismatic in her self-assuredness, the character can also draw on compassion from the perspective of a mother - making the trafficking of women more than just a fight for justice. Essentially, Ronnie may not be a jaded hardboiled detective you would expect in a film noir, rather, she exists as an exemplary humanitarian forged through compassion and female divinity. Ultimately, “Traffic” succeeds because Ronnie acts as an engaging catalyst for all the action, mystery and drama within the crime genre.
Building off of a strong lead, Danforth is able to build an escalating scenario to keep the reader enthralled and turning the pages. Starting off as a simple missing person case, the situation drastically escalates as details begin to fall into place. Followed by a sense of urgency due to the nature of trafficking people, the narrative stays on point and moves fast - perfect flow for a digestible mystery-thriller. As the situation becomes too large for Ronnie to handle alone, the inclusion of other figures from her past adventures makes for a grand scale climax.
However, there are a few shortcomings of the work as a small minority of the characters feel underdeveloped and the action sequences can be stilted. Giving assistance to Ronnie throughout her investigation, Sam is highly unlikable, always questioning in a mocking tone and quick to make unrealistic demands. Obviously a product of youth, hard life and desperation, Sam is, nonetheless, an underdeveloped annoyance. The action sequences suffer from feeling jumbled at points, as the first person perspective of relaying the actions of many at a time can be difficult to follow. Thankfully, these deterrents are minor and the majority of characters and engaging and the action only dips when there are many people involved.
“Traffic” is rough around the edges, with large scale action sequences in particular feeling poorly composed. However. Niki Danforth has created a powerful lead in Ronnie Lake; hardened yet compassionate, strong yet prone to follow her heart over her gut. Certainly readers with a strong female presence in their life will find admiration for the character Danforth created - wanting to read the many adventures of Ronnie Lake.
“Traffic” strength lies within its titular character, Ronnie, who exudes strength and confidence. Extremely charismatic in her self-assuredness, the character can also draw on compassion from the perspective of a mother - making the trafficking of women more than just a fight for justice. Essentially, Ronnie may not be a jaded hardboiled detective you would expect in a film noir, rather, she exists as an exemplary humanitarian forged through compassion and female divinity. Ultimately, “Traffic” succeeds because Ronnie acts as an engaging catalyst for all the action, mystery and drama within the crime genre.
Building off of a strong lead, Danforth is able to build an escalating scenario to keep the reader enthralled and turning the pages. Starting off as a simple missing person case, the situation drastically escalates as details begin to fall into place. Followed by a sense of urgency due to the nature of trafficking people, the narrative stays on point and moves fast - perfect flow for a digestible mystery-thriller. As the situation becomes too large for Ronnie to handle alone, the inclusion of other figures from her past adventures makes for a grand scale climax.
However, there are a few shortcomings of the work as a small minority of the characters feel underdeveloped and the action sequences can be stilted. Giving assistance to Ronnie throughout her investigation, Sam is highly unlikable, always questioning in a mocking tone and quick to make unrealistic demands. Obviously a product of youth, hard life and desperation, Sam is, nonetheless, an underdeveloped annoyance. The action sequences suffer from feeling jumbled at points, as the first person perspective of relaying the actions of many at a time can be difficult to follow. Thankfully, these deterrents are minor and the majority of characters and engaging and the action only dips when there are many people involved.
“Traffic” is rough around the edges, with large scale action sequences in particular feeling poorly composed. However. Niki Danforth has created a powerful lead in Ronnie Lake; hardened yet compassionate, strong yet prone to follow her heart over her gut. Certainly readers with a strong female presence in their life will find admiration for the character Danforth created - wanting to read the many adventures of Ronnie Lake.
January 28, 2022
In Niki Danforth’s book, “Traffic,” readers are taken on a roller-coaster ride of emotions when Ronnie Lake witnesses the violent kidnapping of a wealthy, high profile woman. Being a private investigator, Ronnie will stop at nothing to solve her cases, and this one is no exception. When she is dragged into the murky world of human trafficking, she is determined to solve this mystery and hopefully find the missing woman in time to save her life. But with all the twists and turns she has to maneuver, the question remains: Will she be able to solve this case in time?
I absolutely loved this women’s crime mystery and I couldn’t help but fall in love with Ronnie Lake. She seemed like a no-nonsense type of woman and I thought that being a P.I. was the perfect career choice for her. She stopped at nothing to solve her past cases, so I knew that this case wasn’t going to be any different. From the very first page, I felt the roller-coaster gear up, climb that mountain slowly, and then release me into a fast, action-packed thrill ride. I was eager to become more engrossed in the storyline as I continued to turn the pages.
Ms. Danforth’s characters were extremely believable and I felt as if I was witnessing everything firsthand through Ronnie’s eyes. This novel was full of action, drama, and heart-pounding moments that carried me from one page to the next. It definitely had me sitting on the edge of my seat when I was reading certain scenes because it felt like this story was actually quite real and playing out in front of me. I became invested in the characters as if they were real people I just met. The author seemed to do this seamlessly because I wasn’t aware just how invested I was in the characters until I realized I was nervous for everyone’s safety and well-being, as if they were my best friends. When an author can sell their characters to you that well, then it’s easy to say they’ve succeeded in telling an entertaining story!
From what I read, this is the fifth book in the Ronnie Lake series, but it stands alone perfectly fine if you are starting off late, as I have. If you’re looking for a mystery with a great plot and memorable characters that take you on a journey of monumental proportions, then look no further. Since this story was based around the crime of human trafficking, however, I’d say it would be a better fit for mature teen readers and adult mystery lovers.
I absolutely loved this women’s crime mystery and I couldn’t help but fall in love with Ronnie Lake. She seemed like a no-nonsense type of woman and I thought that being a P.I. was the perfect career choice for her. She stopped at nothing to solve her past cases, so I knew that this case wasn’t going to be any different. From the very first page, I felt the roller-coaster gear up, climb that mountain slowly, and then release me into a fast, action-packed thrill ride. I was eager to become more engrossed in the storyline as I continued to turn the pages.
Ms. Danforth’s characters were extremely believable and I felt as if I was witnessing everything firsthand through Ronnie’s eyes. This novel was full of action, drama, and heart-pounding moments that carried me from one page to the next. It definitely had me sitting on the edge of my seat when I was reading certain scenes because it felt like this story was actually quite real and playing out in front of me. I became invested in the characters as if they were real people I just met. The author seemed to do this seamlessly because I wasn’t aware just how invested I was in the characters until I realized I was nervous for everyone’s safety and well-being, as if they were my best friends. When an author can sell their characters to you that well, then it’s easy to say they’ve succeeded in telling an entertaining story!
From what I read, this is the fifth book in the Ronnie Lake series, but it stands alone perfectly fine if you are starting off late, as I have. If you’re looking for a mystery with a great plot and memorable characters that take you on a journey of monumental proportions, then look no further. Since this story was based around the crime of human trafficking, however, I’d say it would be a better fit for mature teen readers and adult mystery lovers.
August 8, 2021
Niki Danforth’s ‘Traffic,’ the fifth installment to her ‘Ronnie Lake Mystery’ series, finds the New Jersey-based author delivering yet another confident outing for her ever-resourceful P.I.
With a plot revolving around the seedy, deplorable underworld of human trafficking, ‘Traffic’ is a stark departure from Ronnie Lake’s previous adventures. The story essentially begins with a horrific abduction of a young woman in the heart of New York City. Lake is on the case, but Lake soon discovers that she’s way in over her head when she realizes a shocking truth: what initially seemed like an isolated act of violence is an everyday occurrence all over the U.S. The further down the proverbial rabbit hole Lake goes, the more she’s haunted by what she finds, all the more strengthening her resolve to give a voice to the thousands of voiceless victims.
Checking all the boxes for a modern-day P.I. procedural, ‘Traffic’ is brisk, slow-burn masquerading as a page-turner. Danforth’s choice of a first-person POV for Lake continues to pay off as an air of suspense is there from cover to cover. Add to that the sobering reality of the story’s premise, and you have yourself a novel that is a new level of unsettling for Danforth.
By now, with five releases under her belt, Danforth clearly has settled into this character, but that doesn't mean that there isn’t room to grow for Lake. If anything, ‘Traffic’ feels like a bit of a new beginning for both the character and the series. No longer merely a ‘woman and her dog,’ Ronnie Lake has more than earned her stripes–it’s refreshing to find a confident, intrepid woman kicking ass and taking names in a genre so historically male-dominated.
As with all of the Ronnie Lake titles, ‘Traffic’ functions as a stand-alone title, but readers will undoubtedly benefit from some familiarity with Danforth’s previous work, especially when taking into account Lake’s character arc throughout the series. Either way, ‘Traffic’ makes for the perfect introduction to the world of Ronnie Lake.
With a plot revolving around the seedy, deplorable underworld of human trafficking, ‘Traffic’ is a stark departure from Ronnie Lake’s previous adventures. The story essentially begins with a horrific abduction of a young woman in the heart of New York City. Lake is on the case, but Lake soon discovers that she’s way in over her head when she realizes a shocking truth: what initially seemed like an isolated act of violence is an everyday occurrence all over the U.S. The further down the proverbial rabbit hole Lake goes, the more she’s haunted by what she finds, all the more strengthening her resolve to give a voice to the thousands of voiceless victims.
Checking all the boxes for a modern-day P.I. procedural, ‘Traffic’ is brisk, slow-burn masquerading as a page-turner. Danforth’s choice of a first-person POV for Lake continues to pay off as an air of suspense is there from cover to cover. Add to that the sobering reality of the story’s premise, and you have yourself a novel that is a new level of unsettling for Danforth.
By now, with five releases under her belt, Danforth clearly has settled into this character, but that doesn't mean that there isn’t room to grow for Lake. If anything, ‘Traffic’ feels like a bit of a new beginning for both the character and the series. No longer merely a ‘woman and her dog,’ Ronnie Lake has more than earned her stripes–it’s refreshing to find a confident, intrepid woman kicking ass and taking names in a genre so historically male-dominated.
As with all of the Ronnie Lake titles, ‘Traffic’ functions as a stand-alone title, but readers will undoubtedly benefit from some familiarity with Danforth’s previous work, especially when taking into account Lake’s character arc throughout the series. Either way, ‘Traffic’ makes for the perfect introduction to the world of Ronnie Lake.
April 11, 2024
LAID-BACK PROSE, WITH THRILLS AND SPILLS
Traffic: A Ronnie Lake Mystery is the fifth book in the five-book Ronnie Lake series, authored by Niki Danforth.
The 290-page, 26-chapter, and July 2021 thriller is a literary follow-on to the detective work (like in the series’ books 1-4) of its daring female protagonist, Ronnie Lake, a private eye who, contextually, accidentally teams up with actress-and-bike messenger Samantha James to “rescue” the latter’s close friends, Marissa Popov and her asthmatic step-sister Natalia Popov.
Predominantly a first-person narrative, the book (can be read as a standalone) shows Ronnie and Samantha’s spur-of-the-moment actions as they trace the motherless step-sisters (who had been grabbed, as an afterthought, by foreign intruders Jose Garcia and Tomas Braga—while looking for their confiscated passports—from their half-finished, half-occupied apartment building near Central Park South, Manhattan) to a shabby motel in Paterson, New Jersey.
Just when you start thinking the book’s plot is predictable, the author drops thrilling twists: from their not-so-innocent father Maxim Popov’s Super Lux car washes and clothing factory fronting for his shady deals to the thrills and spills during reconnaissance to the children’s desire to see their unethical father held accountable for taking advantage of people to police procedures and legal proceedings.
Upshot: the book’s diverse characters and multifaceted scenes are a stark reminder of the many helpless people who, while seeking a better future abroad, unavoidably become dispensable pawns in multinational shady dealings.
At first the book’s fascinating clues are seemingly by chance; the clues segue into surprising coincidences and witty patterns that reach thrilling climaxes.
The prose is laid-back. The plot is easy to follow. The prologue whets the reader’s anticipation of a thrilling book, whereas the epilogue satiates the reader’s piqued interest.
Traffic: A Ronnie Lake Mystery is the fifth book in the five-book Ronnie Lake series, authored by Niki Danforth.
The 290-page, 26-chapter, and July 2021 thriller is a literary follow-on to the detective work (like in the series’ books 1-4) of its daring female protagonist, Ronnie Lake, a private eye who, contextually, accidentally teams up with actress-and-bike messenger Samantha James to “rescue” the latter’s close friends, Marissa Popov and her asthmatic step-sister Natalia Popov.
Predominantly a first-person narrative, the book (can be read as a standalone) shows Ronnie and Samantha’s spur-of-the-moment actions as they trace the motherless step-sisters (who had been grabbed, as an afterthought, by foreign intruders Jose Garcia and Tomas Braga—while looking for their confiscated passports—from their half-finished, half-occupied apartment building near Central Park South, Manhattan) to a shabby motel in Paterson, New Jersey.
Just when you start thinking the book’s plot is predictable, the author drops thrilling twists: from their not-so-innocent father Maxim Popov’s Super Lux car washes and clothing factory fronting for his shady deals to the thrills and spills during reconnaissance to the children’s desire to see their unethical father held accountable for taking advantage of people to police procedures and legal proceedings.
Upshot: the book’s diverse characters and multifaceted scenes are a stark reminder of the many helpless people who, while seeking a better future abroad, unavoidably become dispensable pawns in multinational shady dealings.
At first the book’s fascinating clues are seemingly by chance; the clues segue into surprising coincidences and witty patterns that reach thrilling climaxes.
The prose is laid-back. The plot is easy to follow. The prologue whets the reader’s anticipation of a thrilling book, whereas the epilogue satiates the reader’s piqued interest.
July 20, 2023
Suspenseful With an Interesting Topic
Traffic: A Ronnie Lake Mystery is the 5th book in the Ronnie Lake Series. It's a standalone novel, so you don't have to read the previous books in the series to enjoy this one. Traffic follows the story of Ronnie, a private investigator, as she races to save the daughters of a wealthy mobster from human trafficking.
Ronnie seems drawn to mysteries as she doesn't hesitate to help a woman she accidentally bumped into. The two of them race against time to save the woman's friends, two sisters seemingly kidnapped by a human trafficking ring.
I love the fact that Ronnie is middle-aged and a mother. I think it's refreshing and different from other books where protagonists tend to be young adults. The fact that she's a mother makes it all the more believable that she'd want to help the two kidnapped young women.
I also like that it touches on human trafficking, which is not a topic that is often discussed, let alone used in a novel. The story is fleshed-out and well-paced and will have you hooked from the very first page. As the plot thickens, you'll be drawn to Ronnie's courage, wit, and compassion in the face of danger.
Traffic: A Ronnie Lake Mystery is the 5th book in the Ronnie Lake Series. It's a standalone novel, so you don't have to read the previous books in the series to enjoy this one. Traffic follows the story of Ronnie, a private investigator, as she races to save the daughters of a wealthy mobster from human trafficking.
Ronnie seems drawn to mysteries as she doesn't hesitate to help a woman she accidentally bumped into. The two of them race against time to save the woman's friends, two sisters seemingly kidnapped by a human trafficking ring.
I love the fact that Ronnie is middle-aged and a mother. I think it's refreshing and different from other books where protagonists tend to be young adults. The fact that she's a mother makes it all the more believable that she'd want to help the two kidnapped young women.
I also like that it touches on human trafficking, which is not a topic that is often discussed, let alone used in a novel. The story is fleshed-out and well-paced and will have you hooked from the very first page. As the plot thickens, you'll be drawn to Ronnie's courage, wit, and compassion in the face of danger.
January 31, 2022
Thrilling!
What a suspenseful and thrilling story in Traffic: A Ronnie Lake Mystery by Niki Danforth. This is the second book that I've read in this series (book 5, and I've read book 3) but I intend to read the others, as I love reading an entire series. Ronnie Lake is a PI, who is a very brave, and intelligent woman, who always seems to find danger (or it finds her). This author brings the story to life. Ronnie has a lot of depth, and is very real, and intense, yet, had that driven but soft side as well. I love it when a Legacy author sends me more of their work! It is a very well-written story, and I enjoyed it. It’s one of those embraceable stories. It’s definitely un-put-downable! This title is a definite attention grabber, so much I couldn't put it down. The thrills and intrigue is written clearly. Definitely an unpredictable story, my favorite kind! A very impressively written story. Traffic: A Ronnie Lake Mystery is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews. I look forward to reading many more stories by this author.
What a suspenseful and thrilling story in Traffic: A Ronnie Lake Mystery by Niki Danforth. This is the second book that I've read in this series (book 5, and I've read book 3) but I intend to read the others, as I love reading an entire series. Ronnie Lake is a PI, who is a very brave, and intelligent woman, who always seems to find danger (or it finds her). This author brings the story to life. Ronnie has a lot of depth, and is very real, and intense, yet, had that driven but soft side as well. I love it when a Legacy author sends me more of their work! It is a very well-written story, and I enjoyed it. It’s one of those embraceable stories. It’s definitely un-put-downable! This title is a definite attention grabber, so much I couldn't put it down. The thrills and intrigue is written clearly. Definitely an unpredictable story, my favorite kind! A very impressively written story. Traffic: A Ronnie Lake Mystery is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews. I look forward to reading many more stories by this author.
June 19, 2022
Our heroine is at the wrong place at the right time and witnesses a kidnapping. Now called upon to find the missing woman, our heroine finds out that there is a lot more to the case then it initially appears and it is going to take all her skills not only to solve it, but to avoid becoming a victim herself.
This is book five of the series, but it is written as a standalone. Jump in at any time.
This is a modern detective story with a strong female lead. The story is well written and packed with a plot that is a definite page turner. There is a lot going on here with a heady mix of action, mystery and intrigue as we follow our heroine down the rabbit hole. Our heroine is well developed with a solid sense of person which helps bring the story to life. She is also tough and smart which is what I like in my leads. Overall, the story was very engaging and enjoyable. I look forward to exploring more works from this author.
Highly recommended.
I received an ARC from Hidden Gems for review purposes.
This is book five of the series, but it is written as a standalone. Jump in at any time.
This is a modern detective story with a strong female lead. The story is well written and packed with a plot that is a definite page turner. There is a lot going on here with a heady mix of action, mystery and intrigue as we follow our heroine down the rabbit hole. Our heroine is well developed with a solid sense of person which helps bring the story to life. She is also tough and smart which is what I like in my leads. Overall, the story was very engaging and enjoyable. I look forward to exploring more works from this author.
Highly recommended.
I received an ARC from Hidden Gems for review purposes.
July 17, 2023
Traffic by Niki Danforth is the fifth installment of the Ronnie Lake series. It is a mystery novel that centers around the character of Ronnie, a female, middle-aged private eye who has only recently taken up this profession.
When Ronnie accidentally bumps into a bike delivery girl, she is pulled into a highly dangerous human trafficking case. Will she be able to help dozens of victims escape?
This book is exceptional because it delves into a common yet rarely talked about issue. Human trafficking is still ongoing even though there are laws designed to stop it. With the help of Ronnie Lake and her fellow investigators, we learn about something that affects millions of people around the world.
In addition to being educational, the book is engaging and well-written. The author has clearly taken a lot of time to research and edit this book. Even though I don't often read mystery novels, I was captivated throughout. I would recommend Traffic to anyone who enjoys solving an interesting mystery and learning about something new.
When Ronnie accidentally bumps into a bike delivery girl, she is pulled into a highly dangerous human trafficking case. Will she be able to help dozens of victims escape?
This book is exceptional because it delves into a common yet rarely talked about issue. Human trafficking is still ongoing even though there are laws designed to stop it. With the help of Ronnie Lake and her fellow investigators, we learn about something that affects millions of people around the world.
In addition to being educational, the book is engaging and well-written. The author has clearly taken a lot of time to research and edit this book. Even though I don't often read mystery novels, I was captivated throughout. I would recommend Traffic to anyone who enjoys solving an interesting mystery and learning about something new.
March 29, 2024
Traffic: A Ronnie Lake Mystery by Niki Danforth is a nice book to read when you are done with your day and want a book to relax. It revolves around Ronnie, who is a private investigator. While on the hunt to try and do a good deed, Ronnie stumbles on a serious crime that involves a mafia leader.
Overall, the plot is interesting enough that I decided to read it. Other than the plot, I do like Ronnie as a character. She's level-headed and knows exactly how to get things done. Not to mention, she does have her funny moments. I also enjoyed how Niki Danforth writes her suspenseful moments. It's like the more you read, the more the suspense builds up. The only thing that I dislike is the fact that the pacing is a bit fast. There were times when I had to stop reading and take in what had happened. The other thing was that there were moments that were unnecessary. The moments didn't bring anything to the story.
Other than those two things, I still enjoyed the story. I recommend it to those who enjoy cozy mystery stories. I rate this book 3 out of 5 stars.
Overall, the plot is interesting enough that I decided to read it. Other than the plot, I do like Ronnie as a character. She's level-headed and knows exactly how to get things done. Not to mention, she does have her funny moments. I also enjoyed how Niki Danforth writes her suspenseful moments. It's like the more you read, the more the suspense builds up. The only thing that I dislike is the fact that the pacing is a bit fast. There were times when I had to stop reading and take in what had happened. The other thing was that there were moments that were unnecessary. The moments didn't bring anything to the story.
Other than those two things, I still enjoyed the story. I recommend it to those who enjoy cozy mystery stories. I rate this book 3 out of 5 stars.
August 19, 2021
TRAFFIC: A RONNIE LAKE MYSTERY by Niki Danforth is an action packed crime thriller about a female private eye’s 24-hour investigation of a possible kidnapping of two young Manhattan sisters, which leads to the discovery of a human trafficking ring. She uses Fitbit to help solve the crime. While this novel is part of a series, the story stands on its own. Ms. Danforth writes with purpose and passion about the issue of human trafficking. She provides bone-chilling details of human trafficking scenarios in a nail salon, car wash, sweat shop, and a motel. She even offers an informative link on the subject. Some of the story takes place in Patterson, New Jersey. While in Manhattan there is an unusual scene where Ronnie’s new sidekick, a young woman franticly searching for her missing cousins, stops everything to take a call about an acting gig. Surprisingly, that scene isn’t played for laughs.
March 28, 2024
Marissa and Natalia are sisters who have a dark secret; their father is involved in a slick, risky business, and when there is a murder it's up to the one and only Ronnie Lake to solve this case. Just when you thought everything was figured out, a new twist is uncovered. Some twists and turns took a personal effect on Ronnie, inspired to dig deeper and uncover more truths and deep dark secrets completely out of left field. I love mysteries that have many deep dark secrets with many twists and turns to keep us on our toes and engaged in the book. Nikki Danforth took an original and inventive approach to writing and structuring this storyline. I'm aware this is a series, and I'm highly anticipating reading the rest of the series very soon.
There was nothing to dislike about this book. The book was written, edited, and structured excellently. Those who are murder mystery lovers will appreciate the book and the series. For these reasons, I am giving this book a 4.5 star rating.
There was nothing to dislike about this book. The book was written, edited, and structured excellently. Those who are murder mystery lovers will appreciate the book and the series. For these reasons, I am giving this book a 4.5 star rating.
July 23, 2023
In "Traffic: A Ronnie Lake Mystery," the fifth installment of the gripping Ronnie Lake Series, author captivates readers through a brilliant combination of intrigue, mystery and deception.
Ronnie Lake, a private investigator, finds herself embroiled in a perplexing case when she gets involved in a case involving a missing child. The case is very difficult and involves sinister risks along each stage of the investigation. Ronnie, herself faces many challenges including self-doubt, loss of conviction and dangerous enemies.
The book is an excellent read, and delves into sensitive topics such as trafficking, dejection and loss of confidence. The book is packed with suspense and the writer does an excellent job, by surprising the audience with twists and turns along the way. Overall, I recommend the book for anyone who is interested in the mystery/suspense genre.
Ronnie Lake, a private investigator, finds herself embroiled in a perplexing case when she gets involved in a case involving a missing child. The case is very difficult and involves sinister risks along each stage of the investigation. Ronnie, herself faces many challenges including self-doubt, loss of conviction and dangerous enemies.
The book is an excellent read, and delves into sensitive topics such as trafficking, dejection and loss of confidence. The book is packed with suspense and the writer does an excellent job, by surprising the audience with twists and turns along the way. Overall, I recommend the book for anyone who is interested in the mystery/suspense genre.
April 3, 2024
What an excellent, thrilling read. I love a modern-day sleuth series with a strong female lead. I love how human Ronnie Lake is, and how passionate. I also appreciate that the author, Niki Danforth, is willing to take on these hard, heavy, current issues. Human Trafficking is not talked about enough and I really appreciate how casual yet decisive Danforth was with the subject. It was very accessible for readers.
Danforth gives us a well-written, well-paced slice of human life—replete with thrill and intrigue.
This book reminded me of an episode of Castle and Ronnie Lake is very much like Kate Beckett, something I appreciate even more since Detective Beckett and Castle were two characters who got me through some tough times.
Well done Niki Danforth, and I look forward to what's next for Ronnie Lake!
Danforth gives us a well-written, well-paced slice of human life—replete with thrill and intrigue.
This book reminded me of an episode of Castle and Ronnie Lake is very much like Kate Beckett, something I appreciate even more since Detective Beckett and Castle were two characters who got me through some tough times.
Well done Niki Danforth, and I look forward to what's next for Ronnie Lake!
November 5, 2024
Interesting look into human trafficking
This is the second Ronnie Lake Mystery I have read, and I enjoyed it as much as the first. I really like the way the author brings prominent societal issues into her works.
This novel delves into the horrific plight of not only immigrants but US citizens that are being abducted and sold as labor or sex slaves. When we hear about human trafficking, it is easier to imagine it happening somewhere else. This mystery novel brings this issue to the forefront, letting us know that this goes on right under our noses.
Often books like this can make readers feel helpless, however, the author provides resources at the end for those who want to help.
This is a great novel for those looking for a cause to get involved in. However, if you are just looking for a good mystery, you will enjoy it too.
This is the second Ronnie Lake Mystery I have read, and I enjoyed it as much as the first. I really like the way the author brings prominent societal issues into her works.
This novel delves into the horrific plight of not only immigrants but US citizens that are being abducted and sold as labor or sex slaves. When we hear about human trafficking, it is easier to imagine it happening somewhere else. This mystery novel brings this issue to the forefront, letting us know that this goes on right under our noses.
Often books like this can make readers feel helpless, however, the author provides resources at the end for those who want to help.
This is a great novel for those looking for a cause to get involved in. However, if you are just looking for a good mystery, you will enjoy it too.
July 30, 2021
Fighting the Battle Against Human Trafficking
This is the fifth book in the Ronnie Lake Mystery Series and it is quite a bit different from the others. This book still stands alone well. This story does not feature her German Shepherd War dog, Warrior, as much as the previous stories. This story is all about human trafficking and may provide triggers for some readers who are sensitive to the subject. The book also celebrates immigrants; our shared history of having our ancestors leave their homes to come to the US for a better life. And, in sharing their home cultures, our lives are richer for it. This is a good and exciting book with bad guys everywhere and too many victims to save them all. I have read all of this series and have enjoyed each book. This book does not disappoint.
This is the fifth book in the Ronnie Lake Mystery Series and it is quite a bit different from the others. This book still stands alone well. This story does not feature her German Shepherd War dog, Warrior, as much as the previous stories. This story is all about human trafficking and may provide triggers for some readers who are sensitive to the subject. The book also celebrates immigrants; our shared history of having our ancestors leave their homes to come to the US for a better life. And, in sharing their home cultures, our lives are richer for it. This is a good and exciting book with bad guys everywhere and too many victims to save them all. I have read all of this series and have enjoyed each book. This book does not disappoint.
September 1, 2021
This is a detective story focused on human trafficking which is a tragic and devastating crime against humanity. While reading, I often had knots in my stomach. This was a change of pace of what I have been reading lately (light hearted young adult supernatural literature). I decided for a change in pace, and this story notched up my stress level a bit as I tend to get wrapped up in what I am reading - especially when I know that this topic is real. There is no way to gloss over the topic that depicts mankind's inhumanity toward one another. This book won't be for every reader. I like that the main character is a kick-butt and take names later kind of detective. Reading this book makes me want to go back and read the others in the Ronnie Lake series.
July 20, 2023
Ronnie Lake's fifth book appearance exceeded my expectations with the narrative and the growth of the protagonist. Ronnie's development showcases her increasing confidence while maintaining relatable humanity and sensitivity. The story is unique, and has surprising character arcs, and an engaging plot.
One notable aspect is the fast-paced plot, as the story moves quickly. I also loved the author's courage in addressing the distressing issue of human trafficking, shedding light on an often overlooked phenomenon. It���s practically the worst crime next to murder, yet few crime authors attempt to write about it. But the author handles the sensitive topic of human trafficking with realism and sensitivity, avoiding sensationalism.
The dynamic between Ronnie and Detective Rossi adds an exciting twist to the series, leaving me eagerly anticipating future developments. The author skillfully weaves a suspenseful story with well-rounded characters. After reading this, I am eagerly awaiting the next Ronnie Lake adventure.
One notable aspect is the fast-paced plot, as the story moves quickly. I also loved the author's courage in addressing the distressing issue of human trafficking, shedding light on an often overlooked phenomenon. It���s practically the worst crime next to murder, yet few crime authors attempt to write about it. But the author handles the sensitive topic of human trafficking with realism and sensitivity, avoiding sensationalism.
The dynamic between Ronnie and Detective Rossi adds an exciting twist to the series, leaving me eagerly anticipating future developments. The author skillfully weaves a suspenseful story with well-rounded characters. After reading this, I am eagerly awaiting the next Ronnie Lake adventure.
October 25, 2021
Ronnie Lake is on her way uptown when she jumps out of the cab and runs into a bicycle messenger. The girls refuses her help but Ronnie gives the girl her card with the standard "if you need anything" not expecting to hear from her again. A short time later the girl calls for help in finding her friend and her sister who have gone missing from their posh apartment in Manhattan. What begins as a missing persons case quickly becomes much darker, dragging Ronnie into the seedy underworld of human trafficking. The book is full of action and surprises for Ronnie as she tries to save the day. This book is part of a series but is a stand alone story.
December 6, 2024
This fifth book in the Ronnie Lake Mystery series can easily be read as a standalone. The book is more focused on the current mystery rather than being heavily focused on Ronnie’s personal life. Enough background is shared to give new readers a sense of who Ronnie is. The mystery in this installment is focused on human trafficking and the efforts of Ronnie, Will, the police and the trafficking victims themselves to escape that life. The book is well written, the storyline is interesting, the characters are believable and there’s enough action to keep you riveted to the pages. This whole series has been very enjoyable.
March 21, 2024
My favourite thing about this book is that it doesn’t feel like you’re reading a sequel. It makes perfect sense as a stand-alone novel, which so many books fail to do.
Despite being on the older side, Ronnie is a tad idealistic and almost childlike in how helpful and friendly she is. It’s refreshing because we rarely see that mix in protagonists. She definitely carried the story and draws readers in.
All in all, I enjoyed the novel. The pacing was good and the plot was decent. I’m sure the target demographic (young women) will empathize heavily with the main character.
Solid read.
Despite being on the older side, Ronnie is a tad idealistic and almost childlike in how helpful and friendly she is. It’s refreshing because we rarely see that mix in protagonists. She definitely carried the story and draws readers in.
All in all, I enjoyed the novel. The pacing was good and the plot was decent. I’m sure the target demographic (young women) will empathize heavily with the main character.
Solid read.
August 9, 2021
This the first book I have read in A Ronnie Lake Mystery series and what a story.
Fighting against Human Trafficking which is all to prevalent in our society.
When Ronnie accidentally knocks into Samantha she ends up helping her.
Realistic situation and characters, the horrific abduction of a young woman in New York City that leads Ronnie to a underworld of Human Trafficking.
This is a page turner.
I received an ARC prior to publication and decided to voluntarily review it.
Fighting against Human Trafficking which is all to prevalent in our society.
When Ronnie accidentally knocks into Samantha she ends up helping her.
Realistic situation and characters, the horrific abduction of a young woman in New York City that leads Ronnie to a underworld of Human Trafficking.
This is a page turner.
I received an ARC prior to publication and decided to voluntarily review it.
September 8, 2021
A unusual Ronnie Lake mystery than what I have read from this author before. This time she tackles the scourge of human trafficking that is so prevalent today. Ronnie Lake is a no nonsense PI that doesn't take no for an answer. Following the possible kidnapping of two sisters in Manhattan, Ronnie is forced to investigate the underbelly of this sordid industry. A real page turner in more ways than one. I received an ARC from the author and the comments and review are my honest opinion.
March 21, 2024
Traffic: A Ronnie Lake Mystery is the fifth book by author Niki Danforth. It stars Ronnie, a middle-aged mother investigating a kidnapping case involving two young girls.
The plot is suspenseful and spirited, which I enjoyed. It touches on topical modern day issues which most people will feel strongly about, and there’s an unexpected turn at the end which I dont believe many readers will be ready for. The characters are believable and endearing, which makes it easy for us to tooth for them.
The plot is suspenseful and spirited, which I enjoyed. It touches on topical modern day issues which most people will feel strongly about, and there’s an unexpected turn at the end which I dont believe many readers will be ready for. The characters are believable and endearing, which makes it easy for us to tooth for them.
August 6, 2021
Ronnie meets Samantha by accident, but ends up to help as PI to help her. The investigation leading to the traffic victims, and Ronnie is trying to help them escapes. The traffic is real, and the actions as the necessary a suspense story. The characters are diverse and realistic. The writing is easy to read and understand. The end well want to read more.
September 10, 2021
Ronnie Lake has what I consider a prime requirement for a private investigator, she’s curious. Of course it also helps that she’s observant, and plans ahead with equipment and training that will help her against larger and formidable people. There is a good plot, interesting characters and plenty of action in this book.
September 27, 2021
Excellent story! Ronnie stumbles into a human trafficking ring. It is not a subject I would normally find interesting but I do enjoy Ronnie Lake stories. She is hired to help locate a couple missing girls. And boy does she find herself pulled into much more than she expects. There is plenty of action. Interesting characters too. I liked the book.
I read the book on NetGalley
I read the book on NetGalley
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March 25, 2024I never read the other Ronnie Lake books, but I enjoyed this one. I like that the author wrote about human trafficking instead of clichéd detective topics. I will definitely read the other books if I can get my hands on them.
The author has created really good character arcs, and I wasn’t able to put down the book. I loved the suspense. Overall, this was a good read and I’d recommend it.
The author has created really good character arcs, and I wasn’t able to put down the book. I loved the suspense. Overall, this was a good read and I’d recommend it.
August 3, 2023
fast paced, gritty, couldn’t put down.
This was the first of the series of books I read and it did well as a stand alone book with snippets thrown in so the reader didn’t miss any relevant information from previous books.
The story itself was gritty and fast paced, I didn’t want to put the book down. The lead character is a strong, independent woman but she’s not against asking for help when needed. The story is only too relevant in many countries sadly, people trafficking and the horrors that go with it. The book is written in an informative way but the heart of the story is family and how we’ll do anything we can to protect those we love. As a PI Ronnie Lake will do anything she can to help those in need and reunite people. She’s a tough cookie with a gentle heart. I liked how when the main story had finished we got to know Ronnie a little better too. I look forward to reading more.
This was the first of the series of books I read and it did well as a stand alone book with snippets thrown in so the reader didn’t miss any relevant information from previous books.
The story itself was gritty and fast paced, I didn’t want to put the book down. The lead character is a strong, independent woman but she’s not against asking for help when needed. The story is only too relevant in many countries sadly, people trafficking and the horrors that go with it. The book is written in an informative way but the heart of the story is family and how we’ll do anything we can to protect those we love. As a PI Ronnie Lake will do anything she can to help those in need and reunite people. She’s a tough cookie with a gentle heart. I liked how when the main story had finished we got to know Ronnie a little better too. I look forward to reading more.
August 4, 2021
Thank you for the free Arc
Totally enjoyed it
Great book
Totally enjoyed it
Great book
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