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Virtue Falls #3
Because I'm Watching
Veteran Jacob Denisov lives alone in his small, darkened home, sleepless, starving, blaming himself for the horrors of the past and waiting for the moment when he gathers enough courage to kill himself. When neighbor Madeline Hewitson drives her car through the front wall of his house, she breaks his house—and Jacob's life—wide open. She isn't called "Mad Maddie" for nothing. The survivor of a college dorm massacre, a woman accused of her lover's murder, she is haunted by ghosts and tormented by a killer only she can see. Dealing with construction and forced to see the world outside his home, Jacob watches Maddie, recognizes a kindred spirit and wonders—is this truly madness, or has someone caught her in a twisted labyrinth of revenge and compassion, guilt and redemption, murder and madness?
Coming September 6 from New York Times bestselling author, Christina Dodd, BECAUSE I'M WATCHING!
Coming September 6 from New York Times bestselling author, Christina Dodd, BECAUSE I'M WATCHING!
Hardcover
First published September 6, 2016
131 people are currently reading
3977 people want to read
About the author
Christina Dodd
100 books5,907 followersUpcoming:
— 6/30/26 TEACH THE TORCHES TO BURN: Daughter of Montague Historical Fiction #3 https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
New and Now!
—MUCH ADO ABOUT MISTLETOE: Daughter of Montague Christmas novella https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
— THUS WITH A KISS I DIE Daughter of Montague Historical Fiction #2
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
— A DAUGHTER OF FAIR VERONA Historical Fiction Trade Paperback Once upon a time a young couple met and fell in love. You probably know that story, and how it ended (hint: badly). Only here’s the thing: That’s not how it ended at all…
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
— WELCOME TO GOTHIC: A Gothic novella in ebook (at last!) https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
— WHAT DREAMS MAY COME Daughter of Montague novella 1.5 "I’m the daughter of Romeo and Juliet. Yes, that Romeo and Juliet. No, they didn’t die in the tomb…" https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
— GIRL ANONYMOUS “Crackling sexual chemistry and a few love scenes guaranteed to scorch readers’ fingers as they turn the pages." — ⭐️ Booklist
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
Readers become writers, and Christina has always been a reader. Ultimately she discovered she liked to read romance best because the relationship between a man and a woman is always humorous. A woman wants world peace, a clean house, and a deep and meaningful relationship based on mutual understanding and love. A man wants a Craftsman router, undisputed control of the TV remote, and a red Corvette which will make his bald spot disappear.
When Christina’s first daughter was born, she told her husband she was going to write a book. It was a good time to start a new career, because how much trouble could one little infant be?
Ha! It took ten years, two children and three completed manuscripts before she was published. Now her suspense, paranormal, historical, and mystery novels have been translated into 30 languages and sold more than 15 million copies in print. Praised for her “brilliantly etched characters, polished writing, and unexpected flashes of sharp humor that are pure Dodd” (Booklist), her award-winning books have landed on numerous Best of the Year lists and, much to her mother's delight, Dodd was once a clue in the Los Angeles Times crossword puzzle. She lives with her family in the Pacific Northwest, where her 700 lavender plants share the yard with her husband’s various “Big Projects,” including a treehouse, zipline, and their very own Stonehenge.
Enter Christina’s worlds and join her mailing list for humor, book news and entertainment (yes, she’s the proud author with the infamous three-armed cover) at christinadodd.com. For more information on A DAUGHTER OF FAIR VERONA, visit daughterofmontague.com. Her legions of fans know that when they pick up a Christina Dodd book, they'll find the story, "Wildly entertaining, wickedly witty!"
Christina is married to a man with all his hair and no Corvette, but many Craftsman tools.
(Source: http://www.christinadodd.com )
— 6/30/26 TEACH THE TORCHES TO BURN: Daughter of Montague Historical Fiction #3 https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
New and Now!
—MUCH ADO ABOUT MISTLETOE: Daughter of Montague Christmas novella https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
— THUS WITH A KISS I DIE Daughter of Montague Historical Fiction #2
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
— A DAUGHTER OF FAIR VERONA Historical Fiction Trade Paperback Once upon a time a young couple met and fell in love. You probably know that story, and how it ended (hint: badly). Only here’s the thing: That’s not how it ended at all…
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
— WELCOME TO GOTHIC: A Gothic novella in ebook (at last!) https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
— WHAT DREAMS MAY COME Daughter of Montague novella 1.5 "I’m the daughter of Romeo and Juliet. Yes, that Romeo and Juliet. No, they didn’t die in the tomb…" https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
— GIRL ANONYMOUS “Crackling sexual chemistry and a few love scenes guaranteed to scorch readers’ fingers as they turn the pages." — ⭐️ Booklist
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
Readers become writers, and Christina has always been a reader. Ultimately she discovered she liked to read romance best because the relationship between a man and a woman is always humorous. A woman wants world peace, a clean house, and a deep and meaningful relationship based on mutual understanding and love. A man wants a Craftsman router, undisputed control of the TV remote, and a red Corvette which will make his bald spot disappear.
When Christina’s first daughter was born, she told her husband she was going to write a book. It was a good time to start a new career, because how much trouble could one little infant be?
Ha! It took ten years, two children and three completed manuscripts before she was published. Now her suspense, paranormal, historical, and mystery novels have been translated into 30 languages and sold more than 15 million copies in print. Praised for her “brilliantly etched characters, polished writing, and unexpected flashes of sharp humor that are pure Dodd” (Booklist), her award-winning books have landed on numerous Best of the Year lists and, much to her mother's delight, Dodd was once a clue in the Los Angeles Times crossword puzzle. She lives with her family in the Pacific Northwest, where her 700 lavender plants share the yard with her husband’s various “Big Projects,” including a treehouse, zipline, and their very own Stonehenge.
Enter Christina’s worlds and join her mailing list for humor, book news and entertainment (yes, she’s the proud author with the infamous three-armed cover) at christinadodd.com. For more information on A DAUGHTER OF FAIR VERONA, visit daughterofmontague.com. Her legions of fans know that when they pick up a Christina Dodd book, they'll find the story, "Wildly entertaining, wickedly witty!"
Christina is married to a man with all his hair and no Corvette, but many Craftsman tools.
(Source: http://www.christinadodd.com )
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 380 reviews
May 4, 2016
Sure, you're snorting. But this is the best book I've ever written, a special book about two damaged, broken people who are barely hanging onto life and sanity, and they are so damned funny about it. Of course, not everyone is going to agree when they get the chance to read it. Not all books are to everyone's taste, and that's the reader prerogative. Yet as the author, I'm very proud.
November 11, 2017
Because I’m Watching by Christina Dodd is a 2016 St. Martin’s Press publication.
What a way to rebound!
Okay, the second book in this series fell short for me, but I had a feeling I should stick with it, regardless, and boy, am I glad I did!! Hands down, this is the best book I’ve read in this series, thus far.
Jacob is a haunted POW, blaming himself for the death of his men. He lives alone, in the dark, never goes out, eats only enough to survive, and sleep is a precious commodity.
He didn’t think there could be a soul out there as damaged as he was, until his neighbor, Madeline Hewitson drives her car into his house. It would seem “Mad Maddie’ has a few scars of her own, but she longs to be normal, to live her life to its fullest potential, but the monsters won’t leave her in peace.
As Maddie and Jacob get to know a little more about each other, Jacob begins to suspect Maddie’s madness could be manufactured by outside forces.
Could Maddie’s life be in danger?
Maddie watched a massacre take place, then suffered through the death of her fiancé, on top of being a prime suspect in his murder. She's at the financial mercy of her controlling and condescending brother who takes credit for work as an author.
But, I think meeting Jacob, someone as broken as herself, helped her come out of her shell. She and Jacob, both recognized a kindred spirit in one another, and it was so inspiring to see them grow stronger, helping each other through painful memories and events.
The special bond that is formed with this eccentric and unconventional couple could have been the sole basis of this story and it would have been awesome, but the mystery and suspense elements also propelled the story forward because it is quite obvious Maddie is in trouble.
If that weren’t enough, the side story involving the local election for the office of sheriff and the ongoing saga with Kateri’s interpersonal relationships, is also very absorbing.
Christina Dodd outdid herself with this one. The ending is a little jarring due to some emotional gut punches, but it has my interest piqued for the next installment, which I am happy to announce, I finally got my little hands on, after a lengthy delay!!
Overall, this is an outstanding novel of suspense and mystery!
4.5 stars
What a way to rebound!
Okay, the second book in this series fell short for me, but I had a feeling I should stick with it, regardless, and boy, am I glad I did!! Hands down, this is the best book I’ve read in this series, thus far.
Jacob is a haunted POW, blaming himself for the death of his men. He lives alone, in the dark, never goes out, eats only enough to survive, and sleep is a precious commodity.
He didn’t think there could be a soul out there as damaged as he was, until his neighbor, Madeline Hewitson drives her car into his house. It would seem “Mad Maddie’ has a few scars of her own, but she longs to be normal, to live her life to its fullest potential, but the monsters won’t leave her in peace.
As Maddie and Jacob get to know a little more about each other, Jacob begins to suspect Maddie’s madness could be manufactured by outside forces.
Could Maddie’s life be in danger?
Maddie watched a massacre take place, then suffered through the death of her fiancé, on top of being a prime suspect in his murder. She's at the financial mercy of her controlling and condescending brother who takes credit for work as an author.
But, I think meeting Jacob, someone as broken as herself, helped her come out of her shell. She and Jacob, both recognized a kindred spirit in one another, and it was so inspiring to see them grow stronger, helping each other through painful memories and events.
The special bond that is formed with this eccentric and unconventional couple could have been the sole basis of this story and it would have been awesome, but the mystery and suspense elements also propelled the story forward because it is quite obvious Maddie is in trouble.
If that weren’t enough, the side story involving the local election for the office of sheriff and the ongoing saga with Kateri’s interpersonal relationships, is also very absorbing.
Christina Dodd outdid herself with this one. The ending is a little jarring due to some emotional gut punches, but it has my interest piqued for the next installment, which I am happy to announce, I finally got my little hands on, after a lengthy delay!!
Overall, this is an outstanding novel of suspense and mystery!
4.5 stars
January 3, 2023
HONDA CIVIC RELIABLE 3 STARS. THIS IS NOT A BAD BOOK.
Writing: 4/5 | Plot: 3/5 | Ending: lolz/5
SYNOPSIS
Maddie Hewilston and going through it: she survived a dorm-room massacre and then her fiance has his throat slashed. His killer was never found, and he may be back to finish her off. But when she drives her car through the living room of Jacob Denisov, a war vet crippled by severe PTSD, she finds a kindred spirit who may be able to get to the bottom of the mysterious happenings in her house.
MY OPINION
Ok right off the bat, a few things:
1. This is a romantic suspense geared toward my middle-aged/senior kweens who prefer more old-school romance that ends with a marriage under God, a house with a white picket fence, and 2.4 kids, rather than two fk buddies eating azz in the park on a Wednesday.
2. There is some questionable police work, but Christina Dodd is clearly angling for a cosy, quirky mystery set in a strange small town, so it works
Now that we've got that outta the way, let's dive into this Honda Civic Reliable romantic suspense. This is my first Christina Dodd book and yes, this is technically #3, but I think all the books involve different characters? Idk, but I might find out because a hoe enjoyed herself thoroughly! Like Rebecca Zanetti, Dodd has been around the block. She's written some 60 books and you can tell. The story flows effortlessly, the characters are well constructed and distinct, and she knows her way around a plot. I used to balk at these older authors with 12059205 books to their names but now I'm rethinking...
Anyways, Dodd is also funny AF. I love her deadpan humor. The bants were bantering and you could feel the chemistry between Maddie and Jacob even though it wasn't in-your-face flirting laden with sexual innuendos (again, more appropriate for the middle-aged/senior kween audience). The kikikis definitely distract you from some of the weird things like the Sheriff asking Jacob for his thoughts on Maddie's innocence, or trusting some random socially-awkward computer genius that's illegally intercepting texts in the Oceanview Cafe. But again, see #2.
Tbh the mystery was juicy AF albeit totally unrealistic. Yeetage of disbelief is required, but as I said earlier, Dodd brings so much else to the table that you can really just lean into the craziness of it all. I found myself thinking GET A SECURITY CAMERA, but then I was like... is Maddie of a sound mind to even think about that? Dodd's wrote a brave, yet emotionally immature and (rightfully so) co-dependent character, so it's plausible that unless she's explicitly told: homegirl get yourself a security camera STAT, she wouldn't think twice. Thereforeth (again, sometimes therefore isn't fancy enough), I'll give it a pass.
Lastly, the HEA between Jacob and Maddie is HILARIOUS. See #1 again. It's very lol that Maddie's magic pucci "cured" Jacob's severe PTSD and made him a new man but what do you expect from this type of book? This is an escapist read at its finest.
All in all, a solid romantic suspense for its intended audience. And yes, I may only be 30, but I identify as a cardigan wearing, tea-guzzling grandma, so this is more my speed than modern smut with werewolves and mafia bosses LOL.
PROS AND CONS
Pros: well-written, fast-paced, juicy j, bants were bantering, solid escapist read
Cons: yes you will need to yeet your disbelief aggressively for this genre
Writing: 4/5 | Plot: 3/5 | Ending: lolz/5
SYNOPSIS
Maddie Hewilston and going through it: she survived a dorm-room massacre and then her fiance has his throat slashed. His killer was never found, and he may be back to finish her off. But when she drives her car through the living room of Jacob Denisov, a war vet crippled by severe PTSD, she finds a kindred spirit who may be able to get to the bottom of the mysterious happenings in her house.
MY OPINION
Ok right off the bat, a few things:
1. This is a romantic suspense geared toward my middle-aged/senior kweens who prefer more old-school romance that ends with a marriage under God, a house with a white picket fence, and 2.4 kids, rather than two fk buddies eating azz in the park on a Wednesday.
2. There is some questionable police work, but Christina Dodd is clearly angling for a cosy, quirky mystery set in a strange small town, so it works
Now that we've got that outta the way, let's dive into this Honda Civic Reliable romantic suspense. This is my first Christina Dodd book and yes, this is technically #3, but I think all the books involve different characters? Idk, but I might find out because a hoe enjoyed herself thoroughly! Like Rebecca Zanetti, Dodd has been around the block. She's written some 60 books and you can tell. The story flows effortlessly, the characters are well constructed and distinct, and she knows her way around a plot. I used to balk at these older authors with 12059205 books to their names but now I'm rethinking...
Anyways, Dodd is also funny AF. I love her deadpan humor. The bants were bantering and you could feel the chemistry between Maddie and Jacob even though it wasn't in-your-face flirting laden with sexual innuendos (again, more appropriate for the middle-aged/senior kween audience). The kikikis definitely distract you from some of the weird things like the Sheriff asking Jacob for his thoughts on Maddie's innocence, or trusting some random socially-awkward computer genius that's illegally intercepting texts in the Oceanview Cafe. But again, see #2.
Tbh the mystery was juicy AF albeit totally unrealistic. Yeetage of disbelief is required, but as I said earlier, Dodd brings so much else to the table that you can really just lean into the craziness of it all. I found myself thinking GET A SECURITY CAMERA, but then I was like... is Maddie of a sound mind to even think about that? Dodd's wrote a brave, yet emotionally immature and (rightfully so) co-dependent character, so it's plausible that unless she's explicitly told: homegirl get yourself a security camera STAT, she wouldn't think twice. Thereforeth (again, sometimes therefore isn't fancy enough), I'll give it a pass.
Lastly, the HEA between Jacob and Maddie is HILARIOUS. See #1 again. It's very lol that Maddie's magic pucci "cured" Jacob's severe PTSD and made him a new man but what do you expect from this type of book? This is an escapist read at its finest.
All in all, a solid romantic suspense for its intended audience. And yes, I may only be 30, but I identify as a cardigan wearing, tea-guzzling grandma, so this is more my speed than modern smut with werewolves and mafia bosses LOL.
PROS AND CONS
Pros: well-written, fast-paced, juicy j, bants were bantering, solid escapist read
Cons: yes you will need to yeet your disbelief aggressively for this genre
November 7, 2017
4.75/5
This book.
My goodness, this book! What a CRAZY ride!
This was the story of two people who thought they were damaged goods. A man thought he was worthless and didn’t deserve to live while a woman couldn’t live a normal life. People believed she was crazy but she was certain that she was haunted by the monsters. Moreover, she suffered from lack of sleep because of the chronic nightmares. And for me, the saddest thing about her life was that she endured all these alone.
Call it destiny or kismet or whatever you want, but it’s clear that from the moment Madeline’s car crashed through the front wall of Jacob’s house, both their lives changed forever.
Kindred spirits in so many ways, they were immediately connected to each other. It gave them a strange but comforting feeling to know that they were not alone, that there was someone who understood what they were going through. Together they helped each other get out of the darkness. And in order to be able to get on with their lives, they needed to fight back their demons and defeat them once and for all.
This book drew me in from the first page. My curiosity was instantly piqued, and the more I read, the harder it was for me to put it down. The plot was clever, gripping, intense, and full of unforeseeable twists and turns. I can say that the author takes mystery and thriller to a whole new level! I loved how she created the atmosphere of dark, loneliness, mystery, and suspense, all mingled into one, in which made me feel sad for both Jacob and Maddie and somehow thrilled and chilled the whole way through. My unease grew bigger and bigger the further I went into the story. I became increasingly worried about Maddie’s safety. Gosh, being watched all the time was beyond creepy!!
When the truth finally came to light, I went speechless! It came as quite a shock to me to find out who exactly Maddie’s monster was. And I was like—Oh. My. God. It was crazy! Well, perhaps crazy isn’t the right word for what I found, but damn if that monster wasn’t thoroughly crazy and malicious and so damn cruel. It was sick and awfully wrong to torture someone just for fun!
One of many things I got from this book is that life isn't supposed to be easy. Never, ever easy. But as long as you're still alive and breathing, there’s still hope. Don’t give up. Life has got to go on! In this book, Jacob and Maddie were lucky they found compassion and understanding in each other—a person whom they could confide in completely.
“It’s okay. Everything came out perfectly. Remember what I said about being ruined?”
“I’ll never forget it.”
“I’m not ruined anymore.”
He thought about it—about the trip, his conversation with Mr. Caron, his successful detective work. “You’re right. And neither am I.”
The ending was simply perfect. I was happy for the couple and their HEA really touched my heart.
My only complaint about this book is the romance aspect. It felt a bit rushed and to be honest, I wasn’t totally convinced that they were deeply in love with each other. Of course, Jacob truly cared about Maddie, and vice versa, I knew that. But love? I’m not sure. Although they felt completely at ease and secure in each other’s company, they didn't spend enough time getting to know each other. In my opinion, it should take more time than this for their love to grow. I found it difficult to believe in their sudden falling in love.
However, aside from that, I loved everything about this book and enjoyed it immensely. I can wholeheartedly say that Because I’m Watching literally blew me away!
A winner indeed!
This book.
My goodness, this book! What a CRAZY ride!
This was the story of two people who thought they were damaged goods. A man thought he was worthless and didn’t deserve to live while a woman couldn’t live a normal life. People believed she was crazy but she was certain that she was haunted by the monsters. Moreover, she suffered from lack of sleep because of the chronic nightmares. And for me, the saddest thing about her life was that she endured all these alone.
Call it destiny or kismet or whatever you want, but it’s clear that from the moment Madeline’s car crashed through the front wall of Jacob’s house, both their lives changed forever.
Kindred spirits in so many ways, they were immediately connected to each other. It gave them a strange but comforting feeling to know that they were not alone, that there was someone who understood what they were going through. Together they helped each other get out of the darkness. And in order to be able to get on with their lives, they needed to fight back their demons and defeat them once and for all.
This book drew me in from the first page. My curiosity was instantly piqued, and the more I read, the harder it was for me to put it down. The plot was clever, gripping, intense, and full of unforeseeable twists and turns. I can say that the author takes mystery and thriller to a whole new level! I loved how she created the atmosphere of dark, loneliness, mystery, and suspense, all mingled into one, in which made me feel sad for both Jacob and Maddie and somehow thrilled and chilled the whole way through. My unease grew bigger and bigger the further I went into the story. I became increasingly worried about Maddie’s safety. Gosh, being watched all the time was beyond creepy!!
When the truth finally came to light, I went speechless! It came as quite a shock to me to find out who exactly Maddie’s monster was. And I was like—Oh. My. God. It was crazy! Well, perhaps crazy isn’t the right word for what I found, but damn if that monster wasn’t thoroughly crazy and malicious and so damn cruel. It was sick and awfully wrong to torture someone just for fun!
One of many things I got from this book is that life isn't supposed to be easy. Never, ever easy. But as long as you're still alive and breathing, there’s still hope. Don’t give up. Life has got to go on! In this book, Jacob and Maddie were lucky they found compassion and understanding in each other—a person whom they could confide in completely.
“It’s okay. Everything came out perfectly. Remember what I said about being ruined?”
“I’ll never forget it.”
“I’m not ruined anymore.”
He thought about it—about the trip, his conversation with Mr. Caron, his successful detective work. “You’re right. And neither am I.”
The ending was simply perfect. I was happy for the couple and their HEA really touched my heart.
My only complaint about this book is the romance aspect. It felt a bit rushed and to be honest, I wasn’t totally convinced that they were deeply in love with each other. Of course, Jacob truly cared about Maddie, and vice versa, I knew that. But love? I’m not sure. Although they felt completely at ease and secure in each other’s company, they didn't spend enough time getting to know each other. In my opinion, it should take more time than this for their love to grow. I found it difficult to believe in their sudden falling in love.
However, aside from that, I loved everything about this book and enjoyed it immensely. I can wholeheartedly say that Because I’m Watching literally blew me away!
A winner indeed!
January 5, 2020
Such a weird book.
The plot was all over the place, the dialoges sometimes sounded silly and unnatural. Such a shame because I really liked Jacob and Madeleine. I loved their story. The problem is I didn't care for any of the other characters.
The plot was all over the place, the dialoges sometimes sounded silly and unnatural. Such a shame because I really liked Jacob and Madeleine. I loved their story. The problem is I didn't care for any of the other characters.
December 11, 2016
Because I'm Watching by Christina Dodd is the 3rd book in her Virtue Falls Series, set in the little quaint coastal town, where a lot of dangerous things can happen at any given time.
This was an engaging story of two emotionally and physically damaged characters, who meet and find love and hope and healing together.
Madeline Hewitson, a survivor of a college dorm massacre and military veteran, Jacob Denisov, who suffers from PTS and thrown together when a killer threatens her life.
An ingenious plot, with engaging local characters, the subplots, romance, suspense and even a touch of mysticism makes this another winning read and a great addition to the series.
This was an engaging story of two emotionally and physically damaged characters, who meet and find love and hope and healing together.
Madeline Hewitson, a survivor of a college dorm massacre and military veteran, Jacob Denisov, who suffers from PTS and thrown together when a killer threatens her life.
An ingenious plot, with engaging local characters, the subplots, romance, suspense and even a touch of mysticism makes this another winning read and a great addition to the series.
June 30, 2024
This is a well-written, entertaining, fast paced, romantic suspense novel. It has two damaged, likable and engaging protagonists, wit, a touch of humor, murder, mystery, suspense, intrigue, twists and turns, and a satisfying conclusion. This is a wonderful addition to Ms. Dodd's outstanding Virtue Falls series. It can be read and enjoyed as a stand alone, but it is even better when it is read in order. I listened to the audio book and the narrator, Ms. Andi Arndt, does an excellent job creating unique voices for the characters.
June 1, 2016
Loved this book from beginning to end. I love a book that makes you feel like you know the answers, only to find out you really didn't. I love this series, and I can honestly say that this is the best one yet. Who doesn't love a series that keeps getting better and better.
June 16, 2017
2.5 stars. This book is labeled "romance" at my library but I think it's more mystery/thriller. It wasn't one of the best books I've ever read but it wasn't the worst either. LOL, on to the next one!
October 18, 2016
What to say about this book? I feel like I'd give it more than 5 stars if I could which is not something that I feel very often. This is one of those books where you enjoy the entire journey rather than reading as fast as you can to get to the end and find out what is going on.
Most of the story is watching the police chief and the hero figure out what is going on with the heroine and watching the very damaged hero come back to life and decide to go on with it. I loved the hero. I loved how he was so far down that he hadn't even bathed in 3 months and how he was just existing until he worked up the courage to jump off a cliff. The author allowed him to really be in that spot and didn't just fix him as soon as he met the heroine.
The secondary characters were great without being caricatures. Loved the home repair guys. Even the town busybody was nuanced.
There were really three main characters. The second strongest character was Kateri the police chief. She has been in the other two books in the series as well. You watch her try to solve the mystery as well as deal with the other crimes in town while running for re-election to her position as police chief and dealing with her love life. She is a pretty strong character and I liked her better here than in the other two books. Not that I disliked her before, just that she's really developing as someone to care for.
The heroine wasn't as well developed. Perhaps the author felt that if we knew her better we would figure out what was going on too soon. I have to say that I knew what was going on practically from the first. The joy for me was watching the hero respond to her. So this is technically a romantic suspense but the romance part is almost not there. I think I would have bought into the romance a little better if we had seen her respond to the hero a few more times from her POV or something. Plus I really felt like she was helping him more than he was helping her. However the scenes where the two of them interacted were for the most part pretty riveting. I just wish they had had more page time together. They sure were two messed up people who found each other.
So read this book for the hero's journey. I have read almost all of CD's novels and while she is generally a wonderful author, I think she really hit it out of the ballpark with this one.
Most of the story is watching the police chief and the hero figure out what is going on with the heroine and watching the very damaged hero come back to life and decide to go on with it. I loved the hero. I loved how he was so far down that he hadn't even bathed in 3 months and how he was just existing until he worked up the courage to jump off a cliff. The author allowed him to really be in that spot and didn't just fix him as soon as he met the heroine.
The secondary characters were great without being caricatures. Loved the home repair guys. Even the town busybody was nuanced.
There were really three main characters. The second strongest character was Kateri the police chief. She has been in the other two books in the series as well. You watch her try to solve the mystery as well as deal with the other crimes in town while running for re-election to her position as police chief and dealing with her love life. She is a pretty strong character and I liked her better here than in the other two books. Not that I disliked her before, just that she's really developing as someone to care for.
The heroine wasn't as well developed. Perhaps the author felt that if we knew her better we would figure out what was going on too soon. I have to say that I knew what was going on practically from the first. The joy for me was watching the hero respond to her. So this is technically a romantic suspense but the romance part is almost not there. I think I would have bought into the romance a little better if we had seen her respond to the hero a few more times from her POV or something. Plus I really felt like she was helping him more than he was helping her. However the scenes where the two of them interacted were for the most part pretty riveting. I just wish they had had more page time together. They sure were two messed up people who found each other.
So read this book for the hero's journey. I have read almost all of CD's novels and while she is generally a wonderful author, I think she really hit it out of the ballpark with this one.
January 11, 2022
Romantic Suspense / Mystery / Contemporary
Series: Virtue Falls, #3
Publication Date : September 6, 2016
Christina Dodd is so good at mixing together action, danger, romance and so much more. I enjoyed the characters, interesting storyline, and a plot full of twists and turns.
The main characters are quirky "Mad" Maddie and the reclusive veteran Jacob, who's suffering from PTSD. They have both come to Virtue Falls to recover from their ordeals, to find some peace and quiet. I enjoyed meeting again some of the characters from previous books. I also liked how main story was nicely wrapped up but the ending leaves a lot setup for the next book.
Although one thing gets a bit annoying for me -- this was yet another story where the veteran was portrayed mentally unstable and self-destructive. You'd think that these men are made of sterner stuff and have nerves of steel. So how/why they are so damaged that they can not cope with even the easiest tasks in their everyday life?? Its kinda sad and disspointing to see those heros so broken and down, sadly often its a reality...
BTW: My favorite story from the Virtue Falls series is still Obsession Falls.
Series: Virtue Falls, #3
Publication Date : September 6, 2016
Christina Dodd is so good at mixing together action, danger, romance and so much more. I enjoyed the characters, interesting storyline, and a plot full of twists and turns.
The main characters are quirky "Mad" Maddie and the reclusive veteran Jacob, who's suffering from PTSD. They have both come to Virtue Falls to recover from their ordeals, to find some peace and quiet. I enjoyed meeting again some of the characters from previous books. I also liked how main story was nicely wrapped up but the ending leaves a lot setup for the next book.
Although one thing gets a bit annoying for me -- this was yet another story where the veteran was portrayed mentally unstable and self-destructive. You'd think that these men are made of sterner stuff and have nerves of steel. So how/why they are so damaged that they can not cope with even the easiest tasks in their everyday life?? Its kinda sad and disspointing to see those heros so broken and down, sadly often its a reality...
BTW: My favorite story from the Virtue Falls series is still Obsession Falls.
September 2, 2016
Many heartfelt thanks goes to the author for providing me with a free signed copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
You just know a book is going to be really good when you are torn between wanting to read to the end or trying to put it down so you don't finish too quickly. The third book in the Virtue Falls series is riveting! Two emotionally broken protagonists each battling their own personal demons and seeking solace when they can in this exciting thriller where real and imagined terrors are lurking. Jacob and Maddie's relationship is not one of instant love which makes this more plausible and meaningful. I loved Maddie's spirit and determination through it all. We also have Sheriff Kateri Kwinault at the center of the story facing challenges of her own and revealing more about her. She is a complicated character and I'm hoping she gets her happily ever after soon. In the small town of Virtue Falls almost nothing stays hidden for long and you can't help but wonder what else is in store for these residents. Loved the book and love the author! Waiting for the next one is going to be a killer!
You just know a book is going to be really good when you are torn between wanting to read to the end or trying to put it down so you don't finish too quickly. The third book in the Virtue Falls series is riveting! Two emotionally broken protagonists each battling their own personal demons and seeking solace when they can in this exciting thriller where real and imagined terrors are lurking. Jacob and Maddie's relationship is not one of instant love which makes this more plausible and meaningful. I loved Maddie's spirit and determination through it all. We also have Sheriff Kateri Kwinault at the center of the story facing challenges of her own and revealing more about her. She is a complicated character and I'm hoping she gets her happily ever after soon. In the small town of Virtue Falls almost nothing stays hidden for long and you can't help but wonder what else is in store for these residents. Loved the book and love the author! Waiting for the next one is going to be a killer!
June 25, 2016
i won a advanced copy of this book from goodreads!!!! i love the town of virtue pines so many awesome characters!!! i was glad to see rainbow and acting sheriff kateri kwinault, love these ladies!!! in this new book we meet maddie hewitson and jacob denisov two people who have been though hell and back . maddie is just trying to hold on to her sanity after going through so much in her life from surviving a college dorm massacre to being accused of her boyfriends murder to a stint in a mental hospital. she came to virtue to start over but the killer who killed her boyfriend is back and tormenting her, everyone thinks shes losing it and they call her mad maddie!! then we have jacob a man who has seen real evil that men can and will do. his life is a living nightmare day after day . the memories of what happen to him and the men under his command eats away at his soul and its only a matter of time before he puts a gun to his head and ends it all. buy when maddies accidently crashes into jacobs house with her car, these two people will see that they are kindred spirts and together they will help each other to banish all the ghosts of their past and nightmares and find love and happiness again. i love christina dodds virtue series!! her books are so witty and they have alittle of her humor mixed in their too. i went from crying to laughing to being mad to having hope and feeling good. thats what you call a good book. cant wait for the next book by this awesome writer.
August 8, 2016
Because I'm Watching by Christina Dodd is the third book in her Virtue Falls series. Although I haven't read the first two books, it does standalone very well.
Ms. Dodd's characters are well developed to the point that my heart ached for Jacob and Maddie as I got to know them. They are both strong individuals who have been wounded to their souls. As they get to know each other, Maddie's acceptance of Jacob begins to help him take his life back little by little. I also fell in love with Rainbow and Sheriff Kateri. Those are two women that I would love to meet. The mystery and suspense had me reading and turning the pages for the next twist Ms. Dodd had in store for me. Fast paced plot with creepy suspense and characters that you feel sympathy for and then cheer for them as they pick themselves up again. I will definitely be getting the first two books in this series so I can get to know more about Virtue Falls.
I received an ARC from St. Martin's Press via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you St. Martin's Press for your generosity. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Ms. Dodd's characters are well developed to the point that my heart ached for Jacob and Maddie as I got to know them. They are both strong individuals who have been wounded to their souls. As they get to know each other, Maddie's acceptance of Jacob begins to help him take his life back little by little. I also fell in love with Rainbow and Sheriff Kateri. Those are two women that I would love to meet. The mystery and suspense had me reading and turning the pages for the next twist Ms. Dodd had in store for me. Fast paced plot with creepy suspense and characters that you feel sympathy for and then cheer for them as they pick themselves up again. I will definitely be getting the first two books in this series so I can get to know more about Virtue Falls.
I received an ARC from St. Martin's Press via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you St. Martin's Press for your generosity. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
September 25, 2016
I am so not a fan of victims, damsels in distress or angst, but Christina Dodd is making me swallow all that and beg for more. Awesome plot, totally original and absolutely unique. Two more unlikely characters for hero and heroine you will not find in contemporary romantic-suspense. If you haven't read the previous Virtue Falls books, don't worry. This one is tied, but not too tightly. Those who have read the previous books will enjoy the character crossovers. Christina Dodd has reason to be proud, it is the best book she has ever written.
Jacob is a vet who is suffering from more than just your normal PTSD. He is quite literally trying to cease to exist, without committing suicide. He feels responsible for the horrific torture that kids under his command suffered at the hands of North Korea. He lives like a hermit, just barely existing. Until Maddie literally crashes into his life.
Maddie has her own set of demons from her past and am unknown demon in the present too. After she crashed her car into Jacob's house, the two form an almost bond over their scarred pasts. Everyone calls her "Mad Maddie" and her behaviors are indeed what make a lot of people believe that about her. There is someone trying to keep her off-balanced on purpose. As she continues to be caught up in the strange things occurring in her home and in Jacob's, her seeming madness and hallucinations are making her second guess her own sanity. Jacob is starting to care about what is happening to Maddie and that may be what saves them both.
Someone else who believes in Maddie is Kateri, the acting sheriff who is locked in a tight race for the job. Kateri has other problems besides Maddie. Luis, the new Coast Guard Commander, has come back into her life but Kateri is just not sure how far things should go. Also back in her life after 10 years is the mysterious Stag Denali, hot and handsome and more than a little dangerous.
Jacob is a vet who is suffering from more than just your normal PTSD. He is quite literally trying to cease to exist, without committing suicide. He feels responsible for the horrific torture that kids under his command suffered at the hands of North Korea. He lives like a hermit, just barely existing. Until Maddie literally crashes into his life.
Maddie has her own set of demons from her past and am unknown demon in the present too. After she crashed her car into Jacob's house, the two form an almost bond over their scarred pasts. Everyone calls her "Mad Maddie" and her behaviors are indeed what make a lot of people believe that about her. There is someone trying to keep her off-balanced on purpose. As she continues to be caught up in the strange things occurring in her home and in Jacob's, her seeming madness and hallucinations are making her second guess her own sanity. Jacob is starting to care about what is happening to Maddie and that may be what saves them both.
Someone else who believes in Maddie is Kateri, the acting sheriff who is locked in a tight race for the job. Kateri has other problems besides Maddie. Luis, the new Coast Guard Commander, has come back into her life but Kateri is just not sure how far things should go. Also back in her life after 10 years is the mysterious Stag Denali, hot and handsome and more than a little dangerous.
June 27, 2025
When Madeline Hewitson drives her car into her neighbor's home (Veteran Jacob Denisov's) life is wide open.
Soon they became friends, each caring for the others pains mainly (PST).
Mad Maddie is a survivor of a collage dorm massacre. She is also haunted by mysterious shadows and sounds.
Together they become normal and whole again.
Soon they became friends, each caring for the others pains mainly (PST).
Mad Maddie is a survivor of a collage dorm massacre. She is also haunted by mysterious shadows and sounds.
Together they become normal and whole again.
March 8, 2021
As the often repeated lines of Matthew McConaughey's character Wooderson in the movie Dazed and Confused "Alright, Alright, Alright" in this case these words pertain to author Christina Dodd being back on track with this book in her Virtue Falls series. This said in regards to the last book Obsession Falls being for me slightly off kilter from her usual excellent writing style. Be it said that although this is a serious tone novel being of the psychological thriller genre it is also one which found me actually giving full fledged belly laughs throughout the reading given the situations and antics of the two main woebegone characters of Maddie and Jacob. Dodd's unique writing style actually made this novel quite enjoyable to read as well as suspenseful since it combines the macabre with the droll, IMHO a very Poesque way of writing. BRAVO 👏!!! Ms. Dodd not many writers can match the mighty Poe. This book was a very well deserved 5 Stars.
It was also good to have Cordelia Markum a character from the book The Listener back in the mix of the story albeit in a minor role and best of all
It was also good to have Cordelia Markum a character from the book The Listener back in the mix of the story albeit in a minor role and best of all
March 8, 2017
I've loved Christina Dodd's books for a long time. She has been one of my "autobuy" authors almost from the beginning and I have never not enjoyed one of her books. With "Because I'm Watching," Christina takes a left turn into fabulousness. This is a fantastic book full of depth and heart, and I think it is hands down the best thing she has ever written. Five stars are not enough. :)
February 19, 2017
A man and woman meet when the woman crashes her car into the man's house. They are neighbors and she is not drunk, just sleep deprived. The man has been living like a hermit and is quite upset by the intrusion. Events unfold and the county Sheriff has her hands full. Loved the characters, the plot kept me guessing. It seems there is hope for recovery from deep physical and psychological trauma afterall
November 17, 2019
“She’s afraid to go to sleep. It’s better than a movie, watching her struggle to stay awake.”
This was my first of Dodd’s novels and I liked her writing style. Because I’m Watching was engaging but predictable.
This is the 3rd book in the Virtue Falls series, something I didn’t know when I picked this up on sale at the library. This book can be read as a standalone, especially the main story about Maddie and Jacob.
The Sheriff Kateri storyline seemed to be more dependent upon the series’ backstory.
The Maddie and Jacob storyline was great.
Maddie survives a college dorm massacre and the murder of her fiancé and is trying to learn to live again. She’s understandably terrified and out-of-it pretty often. The vitriol and lack of understanding from some of her neighbors and the police is pretty gross though.
Jacob is trying to learn to live again after returning from North Korea as a POW. They predictably help each other learn to live again, while dealing with a neighborhood murderer/stalker.
But the Maddie and Jacob storyline (at times poignant, other times cheesy) was only part of the book. Another story line follows Native American Sheriff Kateri as she tries to help the neighborhood deal with meth producers, child abusers, and the aforementioned murderer/stalker. She’s a badass character.
But it turns out that (I assume in a previous novel) she was eaten by the Frog God of Native American lore and vomited back up? Now she can cause earthquakes? So that…threw me for a loop. That whole paranormal storyline, while interesting, felt out of place in the novel and took me away from the storyline. Again this is likely due to it being the third in the series?
An interesting enough read, but it still wasn’t the rut-breaker I’m looking for.
This was my first of Dodd’s novels and I liked her writing style. Because I’m Watching was engaging but predictable.
This is the 3rd book in the Virtue Falls series, something I didn’t know when I picked this up on sale at the library. This book can be read as a standalone, especially the main story about Maddie and Jacob.
The Sheriff Kateri storyline seemed to be more dependent upon the series’ backstory.
The Maddie and Jacob storyline was great.
Maddie survives a college dorm massacre and the murder of her fiancé and is trying to learn to live again. She’s understandably terrified and out-of-it pretty often. The vitriol and lack of understanding from some of her neighbors and the police is pretty gross though.
Jacob is trying to learn to live again after returning from North Korea as a POW. They predictably help each other learn to live again, while dealing with a neighborhood murderer/stalker.
But the Maddie and Jacob storyline (at times poignant, other times cheesy) was only part of the book. Another story line follows Native American Sheriff Kateri as she tries to help the neighborhood deal with meth producers, child abusers, and the aforementioned murderer/stalker. She’s a badass character.
But it turns out that (I assume in a previous novel) she was eaten by the Frog God of Native American lore and vomited back up? Now she can cause earthquakes? So that…threw me for a loop. That whole paranormal storyline, while interesting, felt out of place in the novel and took me away from the storyline. Again this is likely due to it being the third in the series?
An interesting enough read, but it still wasn’t the rut-breaker I’m looking for.
February 7, 2017
Due to lack of sleep, Maddie Hewitson crashes her car into the front of neighbor Jacob Denisov's house in Virtue Falls, Washington. Jacob had never seen her before, but then, he'd never seen any of his neighbors since he suffers terrible pain from the torture he endured while in Korea and has shut himself away from the world. Maddie has suffered terrible tragedies of her own from a massacre of roommates while in college and the murder of her fiancee two years ago. So two kindred spirits meet and start to get interested in each others lives. Maddie is afraid to sleep because she is sure someone is terrorizing her when she does. She's called the police so many times they refer to her as Mad Maddie. Someone sets Jacob's kitchen on fire and kills a neighbor. What does the killer want?
I like to see lots of character development in novels and this one has plenty in Maddie, Jacob and the sheriff Kateri. These characters had been through so much in their lives and I was anxious to see the outcome for all three.
I like to see lots of character development in novels and this one has plenty in Maddie, Jacob and the sheriff Kateri. These characters had been through so much in their lives and I was anxious to see the outcome for all three.
October 3, 2016
The book's description is good and I won't repeat.
Ms. Todd has crafted a unique cast of characters in Virtue Falls (an assortment of misfits) that I ended up really liking and I was totally engrossed in their stories. I found I really liked Kateri and her role as the sheriff. I really didn't like her role too much in the prior books, but in this one all the pieces fell together and really worked. (Although I'm not too sure of her options of romantic interests.)
Jacob and Maddie were a unique couple to read about and their stories were both sad (their past struggles that they had to overcome) and engrossing. Maddie's growth from fear of monsters to strong enough to fight felt real. The "monsters" that she had to face were well developed into their story and created a solid suspense story.
I think this has been my favorite of the 3 Virtue Falls stories. There are a few slow places and some "going with the flow", but I really like that this story felt original.
Ms. Todd has crafted a unique cast of characters in Virtue Falls (an assortment of misfits) that I ended up really liking and I was totally engrossed in their stories. I found I really liked Kateri and her role as the sheriff. I really didn't like her role too much in the prior books, but in this one all the pieces fell together and really worked. (Although I'm not too sure of her options of romantic interests.)
Jacob and Maddie were a unique couple to read about and their stories were both sad (their past struggles that they had to overcome) and engrossing. Maddie's growth from fear of monsters to strong enough to fight felt real. The "monsters" that she had to face were well developed into their story and created a solid suspense story.
I think this has been my favorite of the 3 Virtue Falls stories. There are a few slow places and some "going with the flow", but I really like that this story felt original.
November 29, 2016
As always Christina Dodd keeps the excitment moving from the beginning. She has brought 2 more people to Virtual Falls who's problems are the same but not the same. Maddie has seen personal tragedy/stalking; where Jacob has seen human injustice/death of young people in his charge. Jacob sitting in his house not bothering anyone and all of a sudden a car comes through his house barely missing him. Well I guess it is time for him to meet Maddie. Maddie is coming back from town and misses the turn so she has to make a hard turn not to miss the street. This begins their friendship. From there everything is about helping each other to get out their troubled lives from the past and try to start anew. We have suspense, arson, murder, and so much more. As always somewhere in the story we see love show up in the most paricular way.
November 7, 2016
I’ve been reading many things by this author for years, and I got into her work from the Romance side. As her writing has morphed, now I find myself reading this book that is more suspense/mystery/horror with a bit of romance thrown in. I’m not that into suspense/mystery/horror, but this book had me hooked. It wasn’t hard to figure out the who-done-it part, but it was still gripping and I read it over a weekend. The romance part… hummm… well, I can definitely see the emotional connection of the characters, but it is hard for me to believe the heroine was physically attracted to the hero at the point where he was his unshowered-hermit-self. Overall, this book was great and I look forward to the next in the series. I read the ebook. 4/5
December 29, 2016
Engrossing story, great narration! Full review to come!
September 9, 2016
A special thank you to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I have loved all the Christina Dodd Virtue Falls' books; however, BECAUSE I'M WATCHING, is my favorite thus far! Madam Dodd, this indeed is your best yet! No one can do "broken", damaged beyond repair, and put them back together in one sane piece, better!
Fans of Sandra Brown, you are going to want to move this to the "top of your list." Murder. Madness. Redemption
Christina Dodd continues the saga with her popular suspense series, Virtue Falls following, Obsession Falls (2015) –with her third installment and best yet: BECAUSE I'M WATCHING (a Grip-lit, page-turner, unputdownable).
Maddie Hewitson, age twenty-six-has been time in a mental institution, and she has suffered nightmares about her friends’ massacres and her own mutilation.
"After a year in the asylum, her nightmares changed, becoming long green corridors stretching forever and going nowhere. Drugs that affected her too much, kind caregivers who changed into cruel predators who mocked her grief, intensified her fear, administered painful injections that plunged her into a whirlpool of guilt and fear."
Maddie had learned one thing during those years of murder and her resulting breakdown: "monsters walked this earth in human form." She is a warrior of the night and she hunts them all.
After witnessing deaths in her past, she had not imagined she would ever feel courage again, until Easton came along. He saw past the brave front. He loved her and he had helped her break free of the past. However, in Colorado, even he had been murdered.
Her brother Andrew is a famous crime author, residing in Denver. He wants her to move closer to him. The sheriff’s office has been to her home now in Virtue Falls--plenty of times to check for intruders that do not exist. A fine line between PTSD and certifiably crazy.
After the investigation of Easton’s death, she fled to Virtue Falls. She had been accused of a crime. She was innocent. Crazy was not a disease. She went to the Loony bin to recover. . Of course her brother could not understand why this town on the edge of nowhere—famous for massive earthquakes and tsunami (documented from previous books) was even worthy of consideration.
Veteran Jacob Denisou, age thirty-two had moved to Virtue Falls, Washington. (Now this guy has major issues). Pain slashing at his skull, trying to get out, to explode, to manifest itself in wild screams and violence that never stopped until he broke everything…including himself. He had come here to escape. He had killed people and he needed to kill himself. He was a victim as well.
While sitting alone in his dark living room, making plans to kill himself- a gray Subaru Forester crashes into his home. The front of a small SUV sat in his house. If it had come any closer, he would have been dead. His neighbor, Maddie Hewitson. She lived across the street. He did not want to do this. Face people and have to talk.
He had come here to hide. To die. He would like to walk down to the end of the street and jump off the cliff. He was full of rage, anguish, and depression. He knew that lack of sleep and street equaled the "crazies." He did not deserve to be healed. Consumed with blame and guilt. People were dead because of him. He lived like a vampire.
He meets Dr. Frownfelter, a neighbor and a few others which he feels are an interference. This town seems nosy, interfering and intrusive! There was always some sort of drama going on due to maddening, Maddie living next door.
Next, we catch up with Sheriff Kateri Kwinault. A Native American with scars. (we have grown to love in previous books). She was a reminder of who he used to be and what he had become.
She had saved men. She had died and was brought back to life. She lived a complex life. Months of surgeries, pain, and rehabilitation. She had secured a job at the local Virtue Falls library and later the job of Sheriff. Is she up for what lies ahead? She is also going through all sorts of new drama and choices to make both (personal and career).
Two mad people, broken souls, haunted, and tormented.
What a pair! Jacob had enough problems without Madeline coming in to his life. She makes drawings in ink, black ink, no color. Disturbing drawings of a young woman victimized and in anguish and a monster in black with an open black coat who haunted her, mocked her, and drove her to be a superhero.
Was someone trying to keep her off-balanced on purpose? She continues to be caught up in crimes, and her madness and hallucinations are making her second guess her own sanity. How can she prove it?
Maddie knew Jacob was responsible for saving lives. North Korean prison. Can these two souls connect? Her brother thinks she has a lot in common with a decorated military hero. They had both suffered pain and trauma.
Who is the one really writing the novels? Her brother took over for her, since the media was hounding her after she came out of the institution. They had a workable relationship and she kept quiet. He made the appearances.
Jacob Denisov has shut himself away in his Virtue Falls home, waiting for the day he finds the courage to kill himself, until his neighbor drives her car through his house, forcing him into the light and into solving the mystery of "Mad Maddie." Everyone thinks she is crazy and as the tension mounts and the killer closes in, it may be Jacob who is Maddie’s salvation. She in turn, may become his.
Movie-worthy or at least an Amazon Series. A romantic gripping domestic psychological suspense thriller (wow, that was a mouthful). Dodd turns up the heat, intrigue, and intensity, ("Gaslighting" at its finest) with this complex mystery which will have readers glued to the pages! A bit of Desperate Housewives on steroids, with the wacky neighborhood.
Fans of Sandra Brown, Tami Hoag, Karen Robards, and Nora Roberts – a given; however, Dodd seems to be crossing over into more psychological domestic crime thrillers, which I LOVE, where fans of Paula Treick Deboard, Heather Gudenkauf, Paula Daly, Kimberly Belle, and Mary Kubica will be drawn to this riveting series.
The author, of course is multi-talented -crossing many genres. Writing everything from contemporary, romance, suspense, paranormal, historical, crime, and psychological. I am not particularly a romance fan, or paranormal; however, there are a few select favorite authors, I remain faithful to, crossing genres, -- especially when it comes packaged and driven with "heart-pounding" psychological suspense. I do enjoy a sexy, smart, good "tumble in the hay", mixed with a little sweat, plenty of wit, mixed with crazy (Dodd is a pro at Witty, Intense, Suspense. Complex).
Readers and fans will also get a bonus with a sneak preview of The Woman Who Couldn’t Scream. Just enough to keep you wanting more!
Have read all the books in the series (including the e-short stories) which are great teasers! Highly Recommend.
Love Never Dies #2.5 Review to follow -just finished
Obsession Falls #2
The Relatives #1.5
Virtue Falls #1
The Listener #.05
JDCMustReadBooks
I have loved all the Christina Dodd Virtue Falls' books; however, BECAUSE I'M WATCHING, is my favorite thus far! Madam Dodd, this indeed is your best yet! No one can do "broken", damaged beyond repair, and put them back together in one sane piece, better!
Fans of Sandra Brown, you are going to want to move this to the "top of your list." Murder. Madness. Redemption
Christina Dodd continues the saga with her popular suspense series, Virtue Falls following, Obsession Falls (2015) –with her third installment and best yet: BECAUSE I'M WATCHING (a Grip-lit, page-turner, unputdownable).
Maddie Hewitson, age twenty-six-has been time in a mental institution, and she has suffered nightmares about her friends’ massacres and her own mutilation.
"After a year in the asylum, her nightmares changed, becoming long green corridors stretching forever and going nowhere. Drugs that affected her too much, kind caregivers who changed into cruel predators who mocked her grief, intensified her fear, administered painful injections that plunged her into a whirlpool of guilt and fear."
Maddie had learned one thing during those years of murder and her resulting breakdown: "monsters walked this earth in human form." She is a warrior of the night and she hunts them all.
After witnessing deaths in her past, she had not imagined she would ever feel courage again, until Easton came along. He saw past the brave front. He loved her and he had helped her break free of the past. However, in Colorado, even he had been murdered.
Her brother Andrew is a famous crime author, residing in Denver. He wants her to move closer to him. The sheriff’s office has been to her home now in Virtue Falls--plenty of times to check for intruders that do not exist. A fine line between PTSD and certifiably crazy.
After the investigation of Easton’s death, she fled to Virtue Falls. She had been accused of a crime. She was innocent. Crazy was not a disease. She went to the Loony bin to recover. . Of course her brother could not understand why this town on the edge of nowhere—famous for massive earthquakes and tsunami (documented from previous books) was even worthy of consideration.
Veteran Jacob Denisou, age thirty-two had moved to Virtue Falls, Washington. (Now this guy has major issues). Pain slashing at his skull, trying to get out, to explode, to manifest itself in wild screams and violence that never stopped until he broke everything…including himself. He had come here to escape. He had killed people and he needed to kill himself. He was a victim as well.
While sitting alone in his dark living room, making plans to kill himself- a gray Subaru Forester crashes into his home. The front of a small SUV sat in his house. If it had come any closer, he would have been dead. His neighbor, Maddie Hewitson. She lived across the street. He did not want to do this. Face people and have to talk.
He had come here to hide. To die. He would like to walk down to the end of the street and jump off the cliff. He was full of rage, anguish, and depression. He knew that lack of sleep and street equaled the "crazies." He did not deserve to be healed. Consumed with blame and guilt. People were dead because of him. He lived like a vampire.
He meets Dr. Frownfelter, a neighbor and a few others which he feels are an interference. This town seems nosy, interfering and intrusive! There was always some sort of drama going on due to maddening, Maddie living next door.
Next, we catch up with Sheriff Kateri Kwinault. A Native American with scars. (we have grown to love in previous books). She was a reminder of who he used to be and what he had become.
She had saved men. She had died and was brought back to life. She lived a complex life. Months of surgeries, pain, and rehabilitation. She had secured a job at the local Virtue Falls library and later the job of Sheriff. Is she up for what lies ahead? She is also going through all sorts of new drama and choices to make both (personal and career).
Two mad people, broken souls, haunted, and tormented.
What a pair! Jacob had enough problems without Madeline coming in to his life. She makes drawings in ink, black ink, no color. Disturbing drawings of a young woman victimized and in anguish and a monster in black with an open black coat who haunted her, mocked her, and drove her to be a superhero.
Was someone trying to keep her off-balanced on purpose? She continues to be caught up in crimes, and her madness and hallucinations are making her second guess her own sanity. How can she prove it?
Maddie knew Jacob was responsible for saving lives. North Korean prison. Can these two souls connect? Her brother thinks she has a lot in common with a decorated military hero. They had both suffered pain and trauma.
Who is the one really writing the novels? Her brother took over for her, since the media was hounding her after she came out of the institution. They had a workable relationship and she kept quiet. He made the appearances.
Jacob Denisov has shut himself away in his Virtue Falls home, waiting for the day he finds the courage to kill himself, until his neighbor drives her car through his house, forcing him into the light and into solving the mystery of "Mad Maddie." Everyone thinks she is crazy and as the tension mounts and the killer closes in, it may be Jacob who is Maddie’s salvation. She in turn, may become his.
Movie-worthy or at least an Amazon Series. A romantic gripping domestic psychological suspense thriller (wow, that was a mouthful). Dodd turns up the heat, intrigue, and intensity, ("Gaslighting" at its finest) with this complex mystery which will have readers glued to the pages! A bit of Desperate Housewives on steroids, with the wacky neighborhood.
Fans of Sandra Brown, Tami Hoag, Karen Robards, and Nora Roberts – a given; however, Dodd seems to be crossing over into more psychological domestic crime thrillers, which I LOVE, where fans of Paula Treick Deboard, Heather Gudenkauf, Paula Daly, Kimberly Belle, and Mary Kubica will be drawn to this riveting series.
The author, of course is multi-talented -crossing many genres. Writing everything from contemporary, romance, suspense, paranormal, historical, crime, and psychological. I am not particularly a romance fan, or paranormal; however, there are a few select favorite authors, I remain faithful to, crossing genres, -- especially when it comes packaged and driven with "heart-pounding" psychological suspense. I do enjoy a sexy, smart, good "tumble in the hay", mixed with a little sweat, plenty of wit, mixed with crazy (Dodd is a pro at Witty, Intense, Suspense. Complex).
Readers and fans will also get a bonus with a sneak preview of The Woman Who Couldn’t Scream. Just enough to keep you wanting more!
Have read all the books in the series (including the e-short stories) which are great teasers! Highly Recommend.
Love Never Dies #2.5 Review to follow -just finished
Obsession Falls #2
The Relatives #1.5
Virtue Falls #1
The Listener #.05
JDCMustReadBooks
July 8, 2017
I do believe this is my favorite book of this series. Two damaged souls, tortured by the horrors of their pasts, who find each other. You would not think it could be humorous, but there were many parts that were laugh out loud funny. And, yet, it fit perfectly into the circumstances and what was happening in the story. As always, the secondary quirky characters from past books in the Virtue Falls series were evident in all their splendor. But, it was the two main characters that literally stole the show. I just loved this book and can't wait for "The Woman Who Couldn't Scream," the next installment in the Virtue Falls series. VERY well done, Ms. Dodd!
March 29, 2017
Not what I expected from the cover (I am a cover judge), but a twisty crime novel with humor, heart, small town busy bodies, and a very good surprise ending.
April 10, 2017
The story here was pretty far-fetched. I was captivated by the dramatic opening events, though, and the characters drew me in and kept me interested.
August 10, 2017
I'm enjoying Christina Dodd's Virtue Falls series and this installment was no exception. "Because I'm Watching" was a good read full of enjoyable characters, both the ones established in previous books and the new ones. Think "Rear Window" but from the livingroom of a house with the front wall smashed in by our heroine. I'm already looking forward to my next trip to Virtue Falls.
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