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Lucy Kincaid #17
Cold As Ice
In New York Times bestseller Allison Brennan’s Cold as Ice, FBI Agent Lucy Kincaid must get into the head of a psychopath to save her family, and herself
Two years ago, FBI Agent Lucy Kincaid put psychopath Elise Hansen Hunt in juvenile detention for her role in an organized crime syndicate. Now eighteen, Elise has been released with a clean slate, and plans to take her revenge by making Lucy’s life hell. The plot begins with Lucy’s husband Sean Rogan, who has been arrested for a murder he most certainly did not commit.
Lucy is determined to prove Sean’s innocence, but is warned off the case by her boss. As she calls in reinforcements, she learns that Sean’s brother Kane is missing in Mexico, her partner Nate Dunning has been arrested for possession of cocaine, and her friend Brad Donnelly has been kidnapped outside DEA headquarters. Lucy realizes that Elise doesn’t have the resources or patience to execute such a devious plan. Did Elise’s father orchestrate everything from prison? Or is there someone even more calculating seeking revenge on Lucy by hurting the people she loves?
One thing is certain: if Lucy doesn’t find the answers fast, Sean will die.
Two years ago, FBI Agent Lucy Kincaid put psychopath Elise Hansen Hunt in juvenile detention for her role in an organized crime syndicate. Now eighteen, Elise has been released with a clean slate, and plans to take her revenge by making Lucy’s life hell. The plot begins with Lucy’s husband Sean Rogan, who has been arrested for a murder he most certainly did not commit.
Lucy is determined to prove Sean’s innocence, but is warned off the case by her boss. As she calls in reinforcements, she learns that Sean’s brother Kane is missing in Mexico, her partner Nate Dunning has been arrested for possession of cocaine, and her friend Brad Donnelly has been kidnapped outside DEA headquarters. Lucy realizes that Elise doesn’t have the resources or patience to execute such a devious plan. Did Elise’s father orchestrate everything from prison? Or is there someone even more calculating seeking revenge on Lucy by hurting the people she loves?
One thing is certain: if Lucy doesn’t find the answers fast, Sean will die.
469 pages, Hardcover
First published October 27, 2020
886 people are currently reading
4792 people want to read
About the author
Allison Brennan
110 books5,302 followersNew York Times and USA Today bestselling author Allison Brennan believes that life is too short to be bored, so she had five children and writes three books a year.
In 2019, Allison relocated from Northern California to Arizona with her family and assorted pets. She loves baseball, hiking, family game night, and (of course) reading.
RT Book Reviews called Allison “a master of suspense” and her books “haunting,” “mesmerizing,” “pulse-pounding” and “emotionally complex.” She's been nominated for many awards, and is a three time winner of the Reviewer's Choice award winner for RT Book Reviews as well as the Daphne du Maurier award. Most recently, she was nominated for Best Paperback Original by International Thriller Writers.
With over 45 books and dozens of short stories, Allison is writing multiple series and the occasional stand alone thriller. Her most recent book out now is THE MISSING WITNESS, part of the Quinn & Costa series. In June Allison is launching a new Phoenix-set series about a family of private investigators starting with YOU'LL NEVER FIND ME.
You can reach Allison through Goodreads or her website.
In 2019, Allison relocated from Northern California to Arizona with her family and assorted pets. She loves baseball, hiking, family game night, and (of course) reading.
RT Book Reviews called Allison “a master of suspense” and her books “haunting,” “mesmerizing,” “pulse-pounding” and “emotionally complex.” She's been nominated for many awards, and is a three time winner of the Reviewer's Choice award winner for RT Book Reviews as well as the Daphne du Maurier award. Most recently, she was nominated for Best Paperback Original by International Thriller Writers.
With over 45 books and dozens of short stories, Allison is writing multiple series and the occasional stand alone thriller. Her most recent book out now is THE MISSING WITNESS, part of the Quinn & Costa series. In June Allison is launching a new Phoenix-set series about a family of private investigators starting with YOU'LL NEVER FIND ME.
You can reach Allison through Goodreads or her website.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 237 reviews
August 18, 2022
the setup…
Sean Rogan returns home to find two police cars stationed in front of his house and immediately thinks something’s happened to his wife, FBI Agent Lucy Kincaid. He soon discovers they’re detectives from Houston waiting to arrest him for murder. Next, Lucy’s partner Nate Dunning exits the courthouse after testifying for one of his cases to find police and drug sniffing dogs surrounding his car. They search it and find 16 kilos of cocaine. Then DEA Agent Brad Donnelly vanishes, abducted from his car near his office. Are these coincidences or evidence of a really foul conspiracy? Unfortunately, law enforcement doesn’t see the connections so Lucy’s friends and family have to rally and rise to the occasion. Oh, and right before Sean’s arrest, his brother Kane disappears following a successful rescue of three young women from human traffickers. Yeah, one big ball of coincidences that all seem to happen after the release of Elise Hunt from juvenile detention, the most diabolical sociopath Lucy’s taken down.
the heart of the story…
I’ve dreaded this story since first reading the description because Elise Hunt is scary dangerous. Everyone underestimated her because of her youth and chameleon personality that shows up all innocence, sweetness and light. She never fooled Lucy who fought hard to have her tried as an adult but lost out to those professionals duped by Elise. I had every reason to dread this story because Sean’s arrest went from really bad to beyond awful in a nanosecond. Elise and her family were cunning and ruthless but this smelled of an even larger conspiracy. I had to race through the story, raising the speed level of the audiobook, because I needed to know everything and that all would eventually be okay. But the attitude of Lucy and Nate’s FBI family was such an epic fail in their lack of support, which added another layer of anxiety as they demanded everyone stand down.
the narration…
My admiration for the narrator of this series has been steadfast and she was put to the test in this story. Her performance was amazing with the range of emotions needed for those in trouble, those suffering as they worked to exonerate or rescue those trapped in this mess and the sociopaths behind it all. Even at a higher speed the listening experience was exceptional.
the bottom line…
Be prepared to go into this story needing to finish it in one sitting. The tension starts early and never, ever lets up. But the real heroes of the story are Lucy’s family and friends in law enforcement who went to extraordinary lengths to figure out what was going on and resolve everything while staying within the legal lines. Her sister-in-law Kate Donovan, an agent and tech genius, was a standout who did what the Houston Police Department failed to do in properly investigating the murder that started it all. The stunning revelations near the end knocked me back but were perfect for this story. This was a gnarly, anxiety filled mystery that just might be the best in the series. Thanks to the narrator for making it an outstanding reading/listening experience despite my being wrecked through most of it.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
Sean Rogan returns home to find two police cars stationed in front of his house and immediately thinks something’s happened to his wife, FBI Agent Lucy Kincaid. He soon discovers they’re detectives from Houston waiting to arrest him for murder. Next, Lucy’s partner Nate Dunning exits the courthouse after testifying for one of his cases to find police and drug sniffing dogs surrounding his car. They search it and find 16 kilos of cocaine. Then DEA Agent Brad Donnelly vanishes, abducted from his car near his office. Are these coincidences or evidence of a really foul conspiracy? Unfortunately, law enforcement doesn’t see the connections so Lucy’s friends and family have to rally and rise to the occasion. Oh, and right before Sean’s arrest, his brother Kane disappears following a successful rescue of three young women from human traffickers. Yeah, one big ball of coincidences that all seem to happen after the release of Elise Hunt from juvenile detention, the most diabolical sociopath Lucy’s taken down.
the heart of the story…
I’ve dreaded this story since first reading the description because Elise Hunt is scary dangerous. Everyone underestimated her because of her youth and chameleon personality that shows up all innocence, sweetness and light. She never fooled Lucy who fought hard to have her tried as an adult but lost out to those professionals duped by Elise. I had every reason to dread this story because Sean’s arrest went from really bad to beyond awful in a nanosecond. Elise and her family were cunning and ruthless but this smelled of an even larger conspiracy. I had to race through the story, raising the speed level of the audiobook, because I needed to know everything and that all would eventually be okay. But the attitude of Lucy and Nate’s FBI family was such an epic fail in their lack of support, which added another layer of anxiety as they demanded everyone stand down.
the narration…
My admiration for the narrator of this series has been steadfast and she was put to the test in this story. Her performance was amazing with the range of emotions needed for those in trouble, those suffering as they worked to exonerate or rescue those trapped in this mess and the sociopaths behind it all. Even at a higher speed the listening experience was exceptional.
the bottom line…
Be prepared to go into this story needing to finish it in one sitting. The tension starts early and never, ever lets up. But the real heroes of the story are Lucy’s family and friends in law enforcement who went to extraordinary lengths to figure out what was going on and resolve everything while staying within the legal lines. Her sister-in-law Kate Donovan, an agent and tech genius, was a standout who did what the Houston Police Department failed to do in properly investigating the murder that started it all. The stunning revelations near the end knocked me back but were perfect for this story. This was a gnarly, anxiety filled mystery that just might be the best in the series. Thanks to the narrator for making it an outstanding reading/listening experience despite my being wrecked through most of it.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
August 13, 2022
When eighteen-year-old Elise Hunt was released after three years in juvenile detention, FBI Agent Lucy Kincaid knew it was only a matter of time before the psychopath would pop up again. It only took three weeks. Elise has a plan for revenge against Lucy and anyone who had a hand in bringing down Elise's family. First Lucy's husband, Sean Rogan, is questioned about a murder of a known prostitute and eventually arrested. Lucy knows her husband is innocent, but she is not allowed to be involved in the investigation. As she calls in favors, Lucy learns that her partner Nate Dunning is being questioned concerning drugs in his vehicle; Sean's brother Kane is missing in Mexico; and DEA Agent Brad Donnelly was kidnapped outside of his office building. Lucy knows Elise is behind everything, but she couldn't have planned this alone. Who else wants to bring down Lucy and her friends?
The 17th book in the Lucy Kincaid series is one of the best. It was so hard to set the book down and go to bed. The story is fast-paced with lots of twists and turns. Some of the scenes are intense. I found myself sitting on the edge of my seat. And I found it very frustrating when some of the law enforcement officers would not take Lucy's theories seriously.
Many characters from past books are back to help with the investigation. I loved seeing Patrick, Jack, Megan, Brad, and Kate back in the mix. Some people complain about the number of characters in this book and how hard it was to keep track of them. I just have to say that you shouldn't start a new series with book #17. You'll be lost. Start with the first book. You won't be disappointed. My rating: 5 Stars.
The 17th book in the Lucy Kincaid series is one of the best. It was so hard to set the book down and go to bed. The story is fast-paced with lots of twists and turns. Some of the scenes are intense. I found myself sitting on the edge of my seat. And I found it very frustrating when some of the law enforcement officers would not take Lucy's theories seriously.
Many characters from past books are back to help with the investigation. I loved seeing Patrick, Jack, Megan, Brad, and Kate back in the mix. Some people complain about the number of characters in this book and how hard it was to keep track of them. I just have to say that you shouldn't start a new series with book #17. You'll be lost. Start with the first book. You won't be disappointed. My rating: 5 Stars.
August 21, 2022
I knew she would be back, and she is. There is so much going on in this book that Elise just didn't get the page time she deserved. I wanted to see all out psychological warfare and all we got were a few skirmishes. But the whole of the book was one traumatic experience followed by another for poor Lucy. I would have wanted to crawl in bed and pull the cover up until it all went away. But that is not our Lucy, although I did get the impression that she was rather shell shocked at times. She was tireless in her defense of Sean and her pursuit of the truth. It really helped that she had friends and so many relatives to help. Fantastic book, but you really need to read the other 16 books before this one or you really won't be able to fully savor the victory at the end.
January 10, 2021
Wow! 17 books, 6 novellas, and 1 short story! The entire series was well written, researched, and I enjoyed them all. This last book was maybe the best of all because it answered a lot of questions that had been building throughout the series. You really need to start from the beginning of the series as many characters are reoccurring. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series that is going to release in a few weeks! If you haven’t read them I highly recommend starting at the beginning and enjoy the ride!
December 20, 2020
This one has some plot twists and turns! I look forwarding to picking up the other books in this series. Fun read!
November 1, 2020
This is an intense, entertaining, fast paced, well-written romantic suspense novel. It has mystery, intrigue, twists and turns, and it is another excellent entry in Ms. Brennan's outstanding Lucy Kincaid series. It can easily be read and enjoyed as a stand alone, but is even better when read in order, as characters from previous novels make appearances in this novel. This is a real treat for those of us who have read all of the Lucy Kincaid novels and novellas. Ms. Brennan never disappoints her readers!
November 7, 2020
Very few series that have this many books in it can continue to be exciting and suspenseful this far in. This series is definitely one of those that can. Sure, some books have been better than others, but 17 books in and I still get excited when I crack open a new Lucy Kincaid book!
Cold As Ice was one of the best books I've read in 2020. As the description says, several of the regular characters in this series are in big trouble in this book. From the first few pages, I was sucked into this story, and I hated to have to put the book down. If only I would have had more time to read, this would have been a book that I finished in one day.
I won't go into plot points, but Allison Brennan did a fantastic job of using the Rogan and Kincaid pasts and histories in this book. I suppose you could read this as a stand alone, but if you've never read one of these books I highly recommend that you go back to book one and make your way through this series from the beginning. Most of these books have the perfect blend of suspense, mystery and/or thriller, and personal relationships.
The characters are a huge part of why I like these books so much. In Cold As Ice, I swear I could feel my blood pressure rising as the events surrounding Sean were escalating and Lucy and company tried to figure out what was going on. I truly didn't know what was coming next.
As usual, I cannot wait for the next one!
Cold As Ice was one of the best books I've read in 2020. As the description says, several of the regular characters in this series are in big trouble in this book. From the first few pages, I was sucked into this story, and I hated to have to put the book down. If only I would have had more time to read, this would have been a book that I finished in one day.
I won't go into plot points, but Allison Brennan did a fantastic job of using the Rogan and Kincaid pasts and histories in this book. I suppose you could read this as a stand alone, but if you've never read one of these books I highly recommend that you go back to book one and make your way through this series from the beginning. Most of these books have the perfect blend of suspense, mystery and/or thriller, and personal relationships.
The characters are a huge part of why I like these books so much. In Cold As Ice, I swear I could feel my blood pressure rising as the events surrounding Sean were escalating and Lucy and company tried to figure out what was going on. I truly didn't know what was coming next.
As usual, I cannot wait for the next one!
December 10, 2020
Cold as Ice by Allison Brennan is book 17 in the Lucy Kincaid series, and sadly I think that I’ve reached series overload. Although the plot might be slightly different than the previous books, the delivery seems to be the same, and the books have become a chore to get through. In my opinion, the stories have become extremely wordy and repetitive, boring overall, lacking edginess, action, suspense, mystery, or new ideas. Although most of the characters are familiar, I really don’t like them right now, there doesn’t seem to be any growth, or change in their character from book to book. I feel like the Author is using drama to hold the story together and keep the reader’s attention. I actually found myself hoping for a grisly murder, or graphic scene just to recapture my attention (something that required more descriptive prose, or atmosphere).
In the audio edition, the narrator’s voice for the “excited, emotional” female characters (especially Lucy) is like nails on a chalkboard – way too high pitched, and added to my dislike of the character, instead of making me sympathize with their situation. I can’t count how many times I wanted to DNF the book, but in honor of the series I felt I needed to give this book a chance, sadly it didn't get better for me.
Good-bye, to this series with a 2.75 rating, which I will raise to 3 stars.
In the audio edition, the narrator’s voice for the “excited, emotional” female characters (especially Lucy) is like nails on a chalkboard – way too high pitched, and added to my dislike of the character, instead of making me sympathize with their situation. I can’t count how many times I wanted to DNF the book, but in honor of the series I felt I needed to give this book a chance, sadly it didn't get better for me.
Good-bye, to this series with a 2.75 rating, which I will raise to 3 stars.
October 28, 2020
Another good psychological thriller. That said, I only gave this 3 stars because Lucy's constant whining and losing her cool was getting to be a bit much. Good HEA.
November 1, 2020
Cold as Ice is the 17th book of Allison Brennan's fan favorite Lucy Kincaid series. This is the first book in the series that I've read. I know you're telling yourself that can't be right...no one starts a series on the 17th book! But that is exactly what I did. I never claimed to be normal. At first I was confused as to how all these characters were related to one another; should I make a flowchart? I continued to read. What about all these past circumstances they were discussing? But onward I went. And then I began to not care about any of that. I got so caught up in this exciting story that all of that baggage fell away. I'd worry about past books later; this was fun! How have I not read any of the series before this book?!
I'll make this synopsis a quick one. Two years ago, FBI Agent Lucy Kincaid put psychopath Elise Hansen Hunt into juvenile detention. She's out now and has it in for Lucy. First Lucy's husband Sean is arrested for a murder he did not commit. Then Sean's brother Kane is missing in Mexico, followed by Lucy's partner Nate being set up for possession of cocaine and her friend Brad being kidnapped. What is going on? No way could Elise have planned and carried out all this by herself. Was her criminal father behind it all from jail, or was it even a more nefarious plot than anyone could have imagined?
This book seriously started out with a bang and never let up. Though I wasn't acquainted with the characters' histories, they were well fleshed out and I was able to get a sense about each character. Even though they were not all related, they were a real family in the truest sense of the word. All the different tangents of the story seemed a bit widespread, but they coalesced into a magnificent end game. My favorite bits of the story dealt with Sean wondering if he'd ever see his beloved family again and Brad's treatment at the hands of nutjob Elise. All in all, a truly exciting thriller. And I'm happy in the knowledge I have 16 more books to read about the previous adventures of Lucy and the gang!
I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley. I received no compensation for my review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are entirely my own.
I'll make this synopsis a quick one. Two years ago, FBI Agent Lucy Kincaid put psychopath Elise Hansen Hunt into juvenile detention. She's out now and has it in for Lucy. First Lucy's husband Sean is arrested for a murder he did not commit. Then Sean's brother Kane is missing in Mexico, followed by Lucy's partner Nate being set up for possession of cocaine and her friend Brad being kidnapped. What is going on? No way could Elise have planned and carried out all this by herself. Was her criminal father behind it all from jail, or was it even a more nefarious plot than anyone could have imagined?
This book seriously started out with a bang and never let up. Though I wasn't acquainted with the characters' histories, they were well fleshed out and I was able to get a sense about each character. Even though they were not all related, they were a real family in the truest sense of the word. All the different tangents of the story seemed a bit widespread, but they coalesced into a magnificent end game. My favorite bits of the story dealt with Sean wondering if he'd ever see his beloved family again and Brad's treatment at the hands of nutjob Elise. All in all, a truly exciting thriller. And I'm happy in the knowledge I have 16 more books to read about the previous adventures of Lucy and the gang!
I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley. I received no compensation for my review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are entirely my own.
January 6, 2021
Allison Brennan is one of the authors who can handle a vast amount of characters with ease and make the story so exciting that its hard to put down once started. I love this series because of the big cast of its characters and their relationships. Adding in a little suspense and romance make the stories never boring. The story starts with Sean being arrested, Kane going AWOL and Nate being suspended on suspicion. Readers familiar with this series would know who’s orchestrating the things pretty early on. That does not make the story less thrilling and few surprises are stuck in there even for familiar readers. It’s end of the seat thrilling from start to finish. I loved it and as always looking forward to the next book.
December 27, 2020
I won this book in the Goodreads giveaway and was very excited as I had read every book in the series. As usual you are in suspense throughout the book with the well written plot twists. Also love the idea of the family support Lucy received. However, there are way too many characters to keep track of and recall details from previous books. If I were to binge read the series it would have been easier to recall these details that would have enhanced this story; but, to read the books as they are published it's not. Plus new characters are introduced. Too much.....
November 1, 2020
Whew!!! What an anxiety inducing, heart pounder read!!! Loved it!!!!
August 31, 2020
Just remember to breathe, because I'm not sure I did for most of this book. There's not a lot I can say that want spoil this for you but if you love this series like I do you're going to have to remind yourself to breathe throughout the reading of it because you are on the edge wondering if things are going to be okay with everyone.
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 27, 2020
For my emotional well being, I need there to be an update on Sean before the next book. I know he'll be ok with Lucy by his side, but I need to see it on paper!
Another great installment in one of my favorite series. Brennan always delivers.
Another great installment in one of my favorite series. Brennan always delivers.
August 24, 2022
When Sean Rogan is arrested for a murder he didn't commit, his wife, FBI agent Lucy Kincaid, buckles down to find out the truth. As more friends and co-workers find themselves in trouble, Kane Roagn goes missing in Mexico, Nate Dunning has been arrested for possession of cocaine, and Brad Donnelly has been kidnapped outside DEA headquarters, Lucy believes there is more to it. Lucy soon learns that Elise Hansen Hunt has been released from juvenile detention and she just knows she is behind it all, but how?
This book will have the avid Lucy Kincaid fan on the edge of their seat. There is so much going on and many old enemies return. The reader never knows what is next or who will survive the whole ordeal.
We see a side of Lucy and Sean that we have not seen before. Sean about gives up throughout everything and Lucy puts her foot down and demands action. She knows what is going on and gets very frustrated that no one believes her. Elise still has everyone fooled. She has always gone over heads to get things down, but this time she pushed it and does not care if she looses her job. She is an amazingly strong female character that one can not help by admire.
I truly hope this is not the end of the series. I have one more short novella to read in the series, but I really hope we get more of the Rogan/Kincaid family.
This book will have the avid Lucy Kincaid fan on the edge of their seat. There is so much going on and many old enemies return. The reader never knows what is next or who will survive the whole ordeal.
We see a side of Lucy and Sean that we have not seen before. Sean about gives up throughout everything and Lucy puts her foot down and demands action. She knows what is going on and gets very frustrated that no one believes her. Elise still has everyone fooled. She has always gone over heads to get things down, but this time she pushed it and does not care if she looses her job. She is an amazingly strong female character that one can not help by admire.
I truly hope this is not the end of the series. I have one more short novella to read in the series, but I really hope we get more of the Rogan/Kincaid family.
December 26, 2020
Well, I did not love this one but I ended up liking it. I saw another review that said you could start this series with this one and I disagree, but it might work. The author does give a looooooot of back story. Over and over and over again.
There are several threads going on, and while some dovetail early, others take longer to come together. At about halfway through the book, I was convinced I wasn't going to like it. I didn't like it. But I persevered. The book was gritty, over the top, violent, and emotional. I ultimately liked it and I'm curious as to how events will play out in future books, especially with Sean and Dave.
There are several threads going on, and while some dovetail early, others take longer to come together. At about halfway through the book, I was convinced I wasn't going to like it. I didn't like it. But I persevered. The book was gritty, over the top, violent, and emotional. I ultimately liked it and I'm curious as to how events will play out in future books, especially with Sean and Dave.
December 29, 2020
Sometimes the system fails. That some evil people evade justice, the system can't catch or prosecute all of them. But without the system, they had nothing. No laws or punishment; no rules or morals. There would be a vacuum and someone would fill it. The system, however flawed it was, was the best thing they had going for them. To protect the rights of the innocent, some of the guilty went free. They were not God; they couldn't see all. They didn't know everything. Lucy believed in the system.
Lucy Kincaid was about to go thru the trial of her life. Her belief system, her marriage, and all that she knows. When her husband Sean is accused of murder, she is determined to set the record straight even though the system is fighting her all the way. With the help of close friends and family. She slowly connects the dots to the evil that is about to consume all that she loves.
Love the Kincaid series. Lucy has vulnerability and heart. Her moral code is black and white when it comes to the sex trade industry and her family. She is determined and never gives up. Some new characters on this one that adds to the dynamics of the team. Each team member has their vulnerabilities and strengths. Continue on with the ride!
A Special thank you to St. Martin's Press and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
Lucy Kincaid was about to go thru the trial of her life. Her belief system, her marriage, and all that she knows. When her husband Sean is accused of murder, she is determined to set the record straight even though the system is fighting her all the way. With the help of close friends and family. She slowly connects the dots to the evil that is about to consume all that she loves.
Love the Kincaid series. Lucy has vulnerability and heart. Her moral code is black and white when it comes to the sex trade industry and her family. She is determined and never gives up. Some new characters on this one that adds to the dynamics of the team. Each team member has their vulnerabilities and strengths. Continue on with the ride!
A Special thank you to St. Martin's Press and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
December 21, 2020
LOVED this book. Grabbed hold from page one and didn't let go until the very end. Devoured it!
December 1, 2020
I have loved every book by Allison Brennan that I’ve ever laid my hands on – and this one is no exception. In fact, it might be one of my favorites.
I’ve struggled with this series – the Lucy Kincaid series – because overall, the entire series is 5 stars for me, but because the entire story doesn’t take place within a single book, each individual book does not earn the full five stars for me. Except for this one. This one was the pinnacle of numerous Kincaid adventures coming together in ways so elaborate it’ll make your head spin!
🆂🆈🅽🅾🅿🆂🅸🆂
𝘾𝙤𝙡𝙙 𝘼𝙨 𝙄𝙘𝙚 is the seventeenth book of Brennan’s Lucy Kincaid series, and while you need the rest of the series to understand the depth of the brilliance of this book, it is possible to read it as a standalone.
This book in particular follows Lucy as she tries to make sense of everything that is blowing up around her. Drugs were planted on her best friend. A coworker was kidnapped. Her brother-in-law is missing in Mexico. Her husband was framed for murder, arrested, and who knows what else will happen to him behind bars.
But Lucy has the ability to understand people better than they understand themselves – she can get inside even the most evil of minds. Unfortunately, doing just this is the only way to save her husband.
I’ve struggled with this series – the Lucy Kincaid series – because overall, the entire series is 5 stars for me, but because the entire story doesn’t take place within a single book, each individual book does not earn the full five stars for me. Except for this one. This one was the pinnacle of numerous Kincaid adventures coming together in ways so elaborate it’ll make your head spin!
🆂🆈🅽🅾🅿🆂🅸🆂
𝘾𝙤𝙡𝙙 𝘼𝙨 𝙄𝙘𝙚 is the seventeenth book of Brennan’s Lucy Kincaid series, and while you need the rest of the series to understand the depth of the brilliance of this book, it is possible to read it as a standalone.
This book in particular follows Lucy as she tries to make sense of everything that is blowing up around her. Drugs were planted on her best friend. A coworker was kidnapped. Her brother-in-law is missing in Mexico. Her husband was framed for murder, arrested, and who knows what else will happen to him behind bars.
But Lucy has the ability to understand people better than they understand themselves – she can get inside even the most evil of minds. Unfortunately, doing just this is the only way to save her husband.
September 30, 2020
Allison Brennan some how is able to write page 17 and still bring something new and different to Lucy Kincaid story. I have only read a handful of the Lucy Kincaid story. Allison Brennan is able to always bring readers up to date while keeping the story moving forward. The characters have grown up with the readers to the point everyone is almost like family.
Cold as Ice will not disappoint reader as the story continues from the last book No Way Out. With the death of a character in the last book. New readers will not be lost and will find themselves wanting to know more about Lucy and her loyal tribe that will do anything to protect Lucy and her family.
The story is fast pace. Readers will feel the fear tha Lucy feels as she is trying to protect the man she loves and find out the truth.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the advance copy of Allison Brennan Cold as Ice.
Cold as Ice will not disappoint reader as the story continues from the last book No Way Out. With the death of a character in the last book. New readers will not be lost and will find themselves wanting to know more about Lucy and her loyal tribe that will do anything to protect Lucy and her family.
The story is fast pace. Readers will feel the fear tha Lucy feels as she is trying to protect the man she loves and find out the truth.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the advance copy of Allison Brennan Cold as Ice.
December 18, 2020
I enjoy the Lucy Kincaid series - but with 17 books there are bound to be some clunkers. And, this one really clanked for me.
Here's why:
* Entirely too much gnashing of teeth and rending of garments by Sean and Lucy. Yes, you're going to be stressed, and not want to eat or sleep, and worried. But the whole point of training is to be able to move past these normal human emotions. So, one "panic" moment is fine - but when every section devoted to these characters starts with repetitions of their worries, stresses, concerns, and fears - they become useless in terms of resolving the situation.
* And speaking of repetition - I realize that in a series the author needs to assume some readers will be just starting the series and, thus, a certain amount of repeating the backstory is needed. A certain, limited amount - not constant repetitions about past traumas, past regrets, past circumstances, and past events.
* Too many characters off on too many side stories. Once an author has populated an entire domain with characters it's natural to want to use them all in the story - but that really detracts from the focus of the story. And, even worse, the author introduced entirely new characters into this entry in the series. Too, too, too much
Here's why:
* Entirely too much gnashing of teeth and rending of garments by Sean and Lucy. Yes, you're going to be stressed, and not want to eat or sleep, and worried. But the whole point of training is to be able to move past these normal human emotions. So, one "panic" moment is fine - but when every section devoted to these characters starts with repetitions of their worries, stresses, concerns, and fears - they become useless in terms of resolving the situation.
* And speaking of repetition - I realize that in a series the author needs to assume some readers will be just starting the series and, thus, a certain amount of repeating the backstory is needed. A certain, limited amount - not constant repetitions about past traumas, past regrets, past circumstances, and past events.
* Too many characters off on too many side stories. Once an author has populated an entire domain with characters it's natural to want to use them all in the story - but that really detracts from the focus of the story. And, even worse, the author introduced entirely new characters into this entry in the series. Too, too, too much
January 7, 2021
Cold As Ice actually inspired me to create an abandoned shelf. It takes a lot for me to actually give up on a book, but this one did the job. I really enjoyed Brennan's earlier novels, especially those featuring the investigative journalist character, Maxi.
The characters here were incredibly annoying and the plot incredibly boring. Lucy came across as a spoiled teenage girl hell bent to do things her way while being protected and coddled by a boatload of fabulously wealthy and handsome men, rather than as a mature, intelligent and independent FBI agent.
Meanwhile, Sean is whimpering and whining in prison instead of acting like the man he is purported to be.
All I can say about the plot, at least as far as I got, is that it is comprised of a lot of magical thinking and no real action, suspense, or logic.
This might have worked for me when I was in the 8th grade, but maybe not even then.
The characters here were incredibly annoying and the plot incredibly boring. Lucy came across as a spoiled teenage girl hell bent to do things her way while being protected and coddled by a boatload of fabulously wealthy and handsome men, rather than as a mature, intelligent and independent FBI agent.
Meanwhile, Sean is whimpering and whining in prison instead of acting like the man he is purported to be.
All I can say about the plot, at least as far as I got, is that it is comprised of a lot of magical thinking and no real action, suspense, or logic.
This might have worked for me when I was in the 8th grade, but maybe not even then.
March 14, 2021
Somehow I knew that this book wasn't for me. I won an ARC of this paperback from GOODREADS in November 2020. I didn't receive it until February 2021. I put it aside for a bit until I finished the book I was already reading. Upon picking it up, I encountered a very complex and lengthy set up to a series of multiple storylines crisscrossing one another, knowing that somehow they were all related to a single mastermind. The idea and storyline were great, but I was so lost reading this book, that I couldn't make myself stay with it for too long a time. I usually pick up a book and knock out 50 to 100 pages at a sitting. This book frustrated me, because it constantly referred to past storylines in other books in the series. I couldn't bring myself to finish more than 2 chapters a day. To effectively read this, you need to write down everyone's name and occupation on a piece of paper to refer to it later. I had a hard time remembering who was related to Lucy and Sean the main characters. There are at least 50 different characters in this story and it seems half of them are related. Although the storyline is tight and well thought out, the believability of the story is on the outer fringes of the universe. It is 100% pure fiction. I could not fully enjoy it because of the constant references to the past books in the series. This is book # 17. I made the mistake of starting at the end.
Reading other reviews of the book , I see that it is a very popular series with a rather large following. I could see why: the plot is tight, and in some places in COLD AS ICE the chapters just flowed perfectly; however, there weren't enough of them for me to fully enjoy what was taking place.
If Allison Brennan made it a stand alone, or if a set up chapter was included as a prologue, thumbnailing the past as it referenced this book, I may have enjoyed it more. Truth of it is, Lucy kind of got on my nerves as the book progressed. The series revolves around her as an FBI agent, but there were other more interesting characters in the book that made the reading more enjoyable.
3 and a 1/2 stars for Cold As Ice. The most difficult book I have read in more than a year.
Reading other reviews of the book , I see that it is a very popular series with a rather large following. I could see why: the plot is tight, and in some places in COLD AS ICE the chapters just flowed perfectly; however, there weren't enough of them for me to fully enjoy what was taking place.
If Allison Brennan made it a stand alone, or if a set up chapter was included as a prologue, thumbnailing the past as it referenced this book, I may have enjoyed it more. Truth of it is, Lucy kind of got on my nerves as the book progressed. The series revolves around her as an FBI agent, but there were other more interesting characters in the book that made the reading more enjoyable.
3 and a 1/2 stars for Cold As Ice. The most difficult book I have read in more than a year.
October 26, 2020
FBI Agent Lucy’s husband is arrested for murder in Cold as Ice, the seventeenth book in the series.
Lucy begins to think it’s personal when others close to her life start coming up missing or arrested on unlikely charges. Her initial thought is that it is the sociopath, Elise, who she sent to juvie last year. But could an eighteen-year-old acting alone control this many strings? Could it be Elise’s father pulling the strings from his prison cell? One thing is certain, Lucy needs to get Sean out from under suspicion before he goes to prison for murder. Both Sean and Lucy have put many criminals into prison who are just waiting to enact their revenge on Sean.
Wow! It was literally impossible for me to stop reading this book (as I write this review at 3 a.m.) I should know better than to start a book in this series at 10 p.m.
Cold as Ice is an exhilarating fast-paced thriller! Highly recommended to thriller readers. 4.5 stars rounded up to 5 stars!
Thanks to Minotaur Books and NetGalley for a copy in exchange for my honest review.
Lucy begins to think it’s personal when others close to her life start coming up missing or arrested on unlikely charges. Her initial thought is that it is the sociopath, Elise, who she sent to juvie last year. But could an eighteen-year-old acting alone control this many strings? Could it be Elise’s father pulling the strings from his prison cell? One thing is certain, Lucy needs to get Sean out from under suspicion before he goes to prison for murder. Both Sean and Lucy have put many criminals into prison who are just waiting to enact their revenge on Sean.
Wow! It was literally impossible for me to stop reading this book (as I write this review at 3 a.m.) I should know better than to start a book in this series at 10 p.m.
Cold as Ice is an exhilarating fast-paced thriller! Highly recommended to thriller readers. 4.5 stars rounded up to 5 stars!
Thanks to Minotaur Books and NetGalley for a copy in exchange for my honest review.
October 15, 2021
It has been a hot minute since I’ve deviated from romance. I used to read much more thrillers but so many good news release from romances kept me away.
I’m so glad I finally got to this one though! This is book 17 of the Lucy Kincaid series and there are a lot of recurring characters so I highly recommend starting from the beginning, even if you could probably get by as a stand-alone.
In this fast paced thriller someone is trying to separate the team. Framing Lucy’s husband Sean for murder, setting up her partner Nate an agent with drugs in his car, and her friend Brad kidnapped outside DEA headquarters. All after Sean’s brother goes missing in Mexico.
This all happened just three weeks after a young psychopath is released from juvenile detention after Lucy’s testimony put her away!
However, Elise is young and not organized enough to fund or pull off such an intricate plan. The race is on to clear Sean’s name and find out who is behind this plan to bring down all the people she cares about, but her family is large and determined to help.
This series is always a winner for me! I love all the characters and how much they fight for each other, and for the good guys to come out on top!
I’m so glad I finally got to this one though! This is book 17 of the Lucy Kincaid series and there are a lot of recurring characters so I highly recommend starting from the beginning, even if you could probably get by as a stand-alone.
In this fast paced thriller someone is trying to separate the team. Framing Lucy’s husband Sean for murder, setting up her partner Nate an agent with drugs in his car, and her friend Brad kidnapped outside DEA headquarters. All after Sean’s brother goes missing in Mexico.
This all happened just three weeks after a young psychopath is released from juvenile detention after Lucy’s testimony put her away!
However, Elise is young and not organized enough to fund or pull off such an intricate plan. The race is on to clear Sean’s name and find out who is behind this plan to bring down all the people she cares about, but her family is large and determined to help.
This series is always a winner for me! I love all the characters and how much they fight for each other, and for the good guys to come out on top!
April 29, 2021
I won Cold as Ice in a goodreads giveaway. I have never read Allison Brennan before and didn't realize that this book was the 17th in a series.
This book was well-written and fast-paced. I liked the plot-line of Lucy's husband being framed for murder. I like as story where the protagonists are fighting against the odds. The author did a good job of giving me enough information to understand what was happening and the motivations behind various characters actions. I didn't feel like I was missing out not having read the other books in the series.
This book was well-written and fast-paced. I liked the plot-line of Lucy's husband being framed for murder. I like as story where the protagonists are fighting against the odds. The author did a good job of giving me enough information to understand what was happening and the motivations behind various characters actions. I didn't feel like I was missing out not having read the other books in the series.
February 4, 2021
If I could give more than 5 stars I would. This is the best in the Lucy Kincaid series in my opinion. Characters you can connect with and heart pounding suspense at its finest. This is a must read series if you like this type of genre. Allison Brennan has you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end.
January 5, 2021
I enjoy Brennan’s books and she spins a good story. Not sure if you would enjoy this book if you hadn’t read her previous novels as this tale is certainly based on those previous ones. Worth reading and of course free from the local public library and the curbside pickup
August 10, 2022
I don't know quite how to rate this book: at 400+ pages, it was crammed with characters, many family members and familiar enemies from previous stories. It felt "crowded" to me and had very little new material about the Kinkaid-Rogan alliance.
I read this for a group discussion and I will be very curious to see other members' comments and perspectives for this one. It almost felt as if Brennan was wrapping up the series and tying all the loose ends. Yet, it feels unfinished to me with respect to the family, the FBI staff, and so on....
I read this for a group discussion and I will be very curious to see other members' comments and perspectives for this one. It almost felt as if Brennan was wrapping up the series and tying all the loose ends. Yet, it feels unfinished to me with respect to the family, the FBI staff, and so on....
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