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Dealing with public perception is such a drag, but it's a problem that Sienna Nealon has tripped over multiple times in her law enforcement career. When she's forced to pursue a dangerous fugitive into rural Colorado, though, she becomes trapped by both her agency superior and local government in the ultimate PR exercise:


Becoming a contestant in a dating reality show in which men compete to win her attention.

For Sienna, this feels like the thinnest margin of difference from actual hell, but to her partner, Eilish Findlay, it sounds the nearest thing to heaven. For it's been eight long years since the love of her life died, and loneliness is like a second skin to her at this point. But between the two of them, they'll have to brave things that Sienna has never faced - nor wanted to - in order to find their fugitive...

...And, perhaps, love?

473 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 2, 2022

238 people are currently reading
88 people want to read

About the author

Robert J. Crane

185 books1,173 followers
Robert J. Crane was born and raised on Florida's Space Coast before moving to the upper midwest in search of cooler climates and more palatable beer. He graduated from the University of Central Florida with a degree in English Creative Writing. He worked for a year as a substitute teacher and worked in the financial services field for seven years while writing in his spare time.

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5 stars
1,023 (76%)
4 stars
246 (18%)
3 stars
49 (3%)
2 stars
10 (<1%)
1 star
4 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
Profile Image for R  Haines.
12 reviews
November 2, 2022
Move over Shakespeare

If GITB was a tv series, this would be the Valentine’s Day special, and I am 1000% here for it. Still grappling with the revelations about her marriage and reflecting on past relationships Sienna ends up across the country and on a reality dating show. Gorgeous eligible bachelors, a picture perfect setting, and (this is Sienna) a fugitive to catch. Sounds like a recipe for love. Add in my favorite Irish sweet talker. a guest appearance from a old friend, Scott teamed up with Sienna’s former dog, and set loose Cupid with a quiver full of arrows. Who will be struck and fall in love? Will Sienna make a new start with a new connection? Or will all this talk of love fan old flames?

“Love goes by haps; Some Cupid kills with arrows, some with traps.”
-Much Ado About Nothing
97 reviews1 follower
December 12, 2022
awesome

This book is my new favorite. Getting to know the characters again instead of just death. This one takes me back to the first few in the series that got me hooked.
348 reviews2 followers
December 4, 2022
Love

This one is a little softer than most of Sienna's stories. Reality TV, Scott gets more story time, and a big focus on love. But Sienna is still Sienna. The Chinese are still planning whatever it is they are planning. Nothing is ever easy in Sienna's world.
I love that we see Scott so much. I loved getting to know Owen and Eilish better. I always live to see Augustus, Jamal, Reed, and any other side characters we've seen for so long. I cannot wait to see what happens next. I really want Sienna to figure things out before it gets really nasty... I just expect nasty will get ugly before she fixes things, though.
I absolutely love the way RJC weaves these stories. I can picture the small details and follow along with every twist and turn. The characters are so well formed and continue to grow, change, evolve in ways that make sense and are maybe necessary. The stories are complete and compelling, with a bit to keep the series continuing but not feel like a cliffhanger. Love it.
14 reviews
December 10, 2022
I am happy to see a break in the constant meta problems that result in bloody raw fighting and death that Sienna has dealt with. This was a breather for her, to have time to think and feel, even though the time was manipulated by another mega with happily ever after in mind. With so many past experiences that have made her feel so dead inside and a sense of being used as the problem solver for so many government agencies, she finally made a choice to feel all the things she has shoved down deep inside her. This last meta problem was handled much more differently than her usual way, and it gave her the power to clean up a meta mess without bloodshed. Scott, also at this same time was on assignment protecting a media star. He also has been feeling like every day is another empty and meaningless fight. He allows himself to feel, something he feels he hasn’t been able to do. At the end of this awareness both characters find what they need, and it leaves them with hope. Human or not, hope is something we all need to feel.
20 reviews
December 10, 2022
Number 52 in the series. If someone had told me on book one of Girl in the Box, that I would have to read anywhere near 50 other books (and more) on the story, I would have probably put the book down and found another......However I am so glad I read book that book and I look forward to book 101 if it goes that far. Every book has its own storyline, every book refers to previous stories but every book keeps you on your toes.

This book does sit back a bit, takes an in depth look at the mindset of Sienna and her "feels" and you cannot help but feel for her. It is good that the others also come alive a bit more, Scott, Eilish and again opens up a bit more of an understanding.

Looking forwards to the next instalment, as always. Would love to see this made into a tv series that sticks to the books, because that would be an awesome tv series. Keep it coming RJK
Profile Image for Monica Partida.
131 reviews3 followers
December 29, 2022
Mr Crane, you are a genius!

I really loved reading this book. I want to know more about Jeremy and sienna. That last little tidbit about the CD was genius. A big teaser! And it’s good to see a happy ending finally for somebody. Way to go Scott! I just can’t get over Robert crane’s brilliant mind, and how he thinks up all of these plots and storylines, all of them so vast and different. Like the theme of this book in particular was on reaping what you sow. Elish and Scott experienced this. And Siena finally broke out of her dead state. I really hope she finds her way to Jeremy. I cannot wait for the next book. Another excellent read by Robert J Crane. Keep them coming please!
Profile Image for Mardi Sauve.
436 reviews8 followers
December 3, 2022
Anxiously awaiting Sienna vs China

I admit I love the characters that float in and out of "The Girl in the Box" series. Each character has flaws that makes me empathize or loathe and creates a layered, full story. I can't get enough.
Robert J. Crane, you remind me of my Minnesota cousins who always gave me, their Iowa cousin, a really hard time about their beloved Minnesota. I find that an endearing quality in your series too. It doesn't hurt that your skill at crafting an intriguing story is rare and laudable. I sincerely am shocked that I am 52 books into the series and I haven't been disappointed yet and can't wait for the next book to come.
557 reviews1 follower
July 20, 2025
A Very Unusual Instalment

Right now I’m seriously in awe about the talent of Mr Crane, because although this was definitely different from the majority of the books in this series it felt like a homecoming. Getting back to the roots of who Sienna is.

After all everyone knows that there’s nothing real about reality tv. Yes I’ve peaked ahead to find out when Sienna goes after her friends who’ve been taken by the Chinese government. Absolutely loved the ending to this book! Love the Jeremy and Harry updates too, even if it did make me wonder about Harry’s motives. So like the unrepentant book addict I am, I’m off to the next book of the series. All of the stars on this one!
108 reviews1 follower
December 14, 2022
Always surprising

I'll try to not have spoilers, but no guarantees. So read this review at your own risk.
I don't try too hard to figure out what's going on. I like being surprised, but sometimes I try to put some pieces together. This one I got very few and was shocked a few times. I really love Sienna's growth and her quick wit. I root for her to have real life moments and some joy.
She sure keeps on going no matter what is thrown at her.
I love how things are going for the company and that good is still fighting evil. This is my favorite series ever.
Profile Image for Christy Cox.
11 reviews
December 29, 2022
Editing slipped a bit on this one.

There were several places I had to stop and re-read, to see if I messed it up or if the editing was off... the name of the freezing lad changed from Anthony to Andrew.??? Then a couple of chapters later, Scott went to bed with his pants on, " only stripping down to his undershirt", yet the next morning he gets up and puts his pants on.??? This should have been caught by the editor. The content was good. I feel a strong tension building feel a China showdown!!!
Profile Image for Paul Madsen.
507 reviews4 followers
November 2, 2022
This was a serious change for our badass heroine. Instead of metahumans trying to beat Sienna into the ground, we find someone trying to find good in a strange way. This go around also has Scott, Reed and Augustus playing more than minor roles. As we have seen the past, the Chinese are becoming more than a nuisance with more to come. Mr. Robert J. Crane, another good job leaving us reader begging for more.
Paul Madsen
Orem, Utah
Profile Image for Jo.
1,491 reviews12 followers
November 27, 2022
Just when you think you know what to expect, Crane goes and mixes it all up again.

I spent much of this one waiting for the other shoe to drop ... on each of the story arcs. And drop they did with varying degrees of consequence.

In some ways, this was a softer story. But I strongly suspect this is the calm before the storm.

Is it was, this left me with, dare I say it, a vaguely optimistic feeling for all involved.

I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
Profile Image for Keteriya Black.
44 reviews3 followers
December 8, 2022
As expected!

I don’t know if I’ve read this story somewhere else, dreamed it in another place or simply read where the author is going well before he gets there. It doesn’t really matter because I’m never disappointed with where I’ve intuited he’s going, though sometimes I need to set the book aside, because I relate too intently to what is going on.

Another great read from Mr. Crane, I only wish you’d write a little faster. 🤣🤣🤣🤣
195 reviews3 followers
Read
December 31, 2022
Well, that was a surprise...

I thought this was going to turn into a boring interlude, and it took a while, but then, surprise, surprise, it changed tack, and off we went into an exciting, not romp, but a bit, and the usual Sienna stuff, and then the unusual. So if, like me, it seems a bit slow, but you will get to the end eventually, persevere, it will be worth the slow, churning start. Scott gets a bit, and we have a new character. Great stuff!
Profile Image for Max A.
67 reviews1 follower
January 14, 2023
Another in the series and another good book. It was a bit of a slow starter but did gather pace. Sienna ends up on a reality love show, which did not make sense for her - though you knew it had to be influenced by a meta. Whilst highly unlikely, it did let us into Sienna’s feelings and how she was coping with discovering that she’d been married, had these memories taken and by the time she found out, her husband was dead - the reality show was an ideal backdrop to explore this.
Profile Image for J C B.
56 reviews
July 2, 2023
Hmmmm … two very enjoyable scenarios packed in one book!! Well done again Robert J Crane! Love the idea of trying to create a relatable, human element in Sienna & yet hinting at something being ‘off’ as she explores her inner demons/desires!! Love her ‘sidekick’ in this one; nice to see/hear Eilish again! Yahoo for Scotty’s storyline & hilarious ‘second’ as well!! Once again, entertaining & fast paced … plus leaving the reader w/some enticing final scenes … keep them guessing if you can!?!
4 reviews
December 31, 2022
Another page turner

I was hesitant to carry on reading when I realised the subject matter. But knowi h I have loved each one of The girl in the box books I continued.

I was not disappointed Robert J Crane continues to tell fantastic stories and I cannot wait to read the next book.

Come on sienna let's kick some ass
11 reviews
January 12, 2023
She did love and was love

I really enjoy the personalities Crane creates! Sienna grows in depth and richer in her character with each book. Additionally there is always more than one storyline going, which keeps it rich and interesting. I am looking forward to seeing how the China connection is weaved in. I also hope that this series goes for a another 52 books! I'll read them.
98 reviews
April 19, 2023
32% in and had to stop to review!

O M G! Love love love this series. It's always a movie in my head. Please, Robert, make this a movie or a series. Get full control so you can have the Sienna you want! I'd love to see what she looks like to you. I've reread the whole series and I'll do it again when I'm ready to binge read. This is book 52 so.... Love it!
Profile Image for Daphne.
24 reviews1 follower
November 6, 2023
oh I really liked this one!

What a crazy change from the way Sienna’s stories normally go. I really really enjoyed it. I thought I would be tired of this series by book 10, yet here I am, still devouring them at a furiously fast rate. Ready for book 53. I am going to be sad to have to wait for 56, but you can bet I’ll be pre-ordering!
Profile Image for susan grosskopf.
115 reviews
July 16, 2024
Makes you think

I like he got the woman but I don’t like “white boy”. So many times AA’s reference white people like this and it is accepted. If it were the other way around there would be trouble. Heidi’s story could be a deep dive. Wouldn’t life be nice. I hope my statement is ok.
Profile Image for Andy Blundell.
42 reviews
December 17, 2024
sienna lite

Possibly the least violent action in any of the series so far but nevertheless entertaining. As is is often the case the title has a dual meaning. Sienna and Eilish hunt a fugitive while in a separate storyline Scott and Owen act as bodyguards to a singer. The plotlines are liked by the title in that reality is not quite what it seems.
106 reviews
November 28, 2025
Well, hmmm......

I really don't know what to say about this one I know I saw myself in a lot of it especially to hate me part. I don't know if she should have left the situation like it was or took it apart like she did wow there's some twists and turns in this story and some heartbreaking ones too.
Profile Image for Jen.
19 reviews
December 5, 2022
Mr. Crane did it again…

Another great installment that leaves me with more questions than answers. I really like how a character I’ve been missing reading about came back into the picture. I can’t wait to read the next book.
1 review
December 9, 2022
Best one in awhile

I've read all the books and this one really hit it out out the park. Humor, I chuckled outloud, emotions, heartbreak, love and mystery ,even got teary eyed.
Looking forward to March!
79 reviews
December 9, 2022
Another side of Sienna

Something different Mr C, I was wondering where you were going with this one.... loved delving into the depths of emotions these characters have. Absolutely love Sienna and enjoyed Scott's story and Eilishs xx
Profile Image for Auz Burger.
28 reviews
December 10, 2022
A much different tale and villian than we usually see Sienna facing, and as always, I couldn't put it down. There are a lot of emotional moments in this one that had me in tears as Sienna was forced to face her tattered heart. Can't wait to see what's in store for her next.
185 reviews1 follower
December 12, 2022
OMG, what a ride!

I don't give out 5 stars often, but I had to on this one. Several stories wrapped in one and some twists and turns. Sienna and several characters in a different light. Extremely enjoyable!
921 reviews11 followers
December 13, 2022
Always a new twist!

How Crane comes up with as many stories about metas continues to amaze me. Sienna on a reality love show blew my mind because I am thinking now Crane has ran outta ideas! But, surprisingly, it was actually a good book like the rest!
14 reviews1 follower
December 18, 2022
Couldn't put it down.

These books are to short.

Thankfully they come quickly.

I'm thoroughly addicted to Sienna Nealon books! I practically hold my breath. My fiancee watches me read and says he's never seen someone's eyes move back and forth like mine except in REM sleep, lol
Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews

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