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Waterman and Stark #2
Now That Shes Gone
Notorious serial killer Brenda Nevins has cajoled, seduced, blackmailed, and left a trail of bodies all across Washington State. Now, after a daring prison escape, she is free to carry out her ultimate act of revenge. The forensic pathologist Birdy Waterman and sheriff’s detective Kendall Stark. The a television psychic hungry for fame, ratings, and blood. There’s only way to stop a killer as brutal, brilliant, and twisted as beat her at her own game…
434 pages, Paperback
First published November 24, 2015
1802 people are currently reading
2500 people want to read
About the author
Gregg Olsen
116 books7,096 followersThroughout his career, Gregg Olsen has demonstrated an ability to create a detailed narrative that offers readers fascinating insights into the lives of people caught in extraordinary circumstances.
A #1 New York Times bestselling author, Olsen has written ten nonfiction books, ten novels, and contributed a short story to a collection edited by Lee Child.
The award-winning author has been a guest on dozens of national and local television shows, including educational programs for the History Channel, Learning Channel, and Discovery Channel. He has also appeared on Good Morning America, The Early Show, The Today Show, FOX News; CNN, Anderson Cooper 360, MSNBC, Entertainment Tonight, CBS 48 Hours, Oxygen’s Snapped, Court TV’s Crier Live, Inside Edition, Extra, Access Hollywood, and A&E’s Biography.
In addition to television and radio appearances, the award-winning author has been featured in Redbook, USA Today, People, Salon magazine, Seattle Times, Los Angeles Times and the New York Post.
The Deep Dark was named Idaho Book of the Year by the ILA and Starvation Heights was honored by Washington’s Secretary of State for the book’s contribution to Washington state history and culture.
Olsen, a Seattle native, lives in Olalla, Washington with his wife and Suri (a mini dachshund so spoiled she wears a sweater).
A #1 New York Times bestselling author, Olsen has written ten nonfiction books, ten novels, and contributed a short story to a collection edited by Lee Child.
The award-winning author has been a guest on dozens of national and local television shows, including educational programs for the History Channel, Learning Channel, and Discovery Channel. He has also appeared on Good Morning America, The Early Show, The Today Show, FOX News; CNN, Anderson Cooper 360, MSNBC, Entertainment Tonight, CBS 48 Hours, Oxygen’s Snapped, Court TV’s Crier Live, Inside Edition, Extra, Access Hollywood, and A&E’s Biography.
In addition to television and radio appearances, the award-winning author has been featured in Redbook, USA Today, People, Salon magazine, Seattle Times, Los Angeles Times and the New York Post.
The Deep Dark was named Idaho Book of the Year by the ILA and Starvation Heights was honored by Washington’s Secretary of State for the book’s contribution to Washington state history and culture.
Olsen, a Seattle native, lives in Olalla, Washington with his wife and Suri (a mini dachshund so spoiled she wears a sweater).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 207 reviews
June 18, 2020
I liked this book but I wouldn't count it as one of my favourites. I read the first book in the series a few years ago and liked it and since I already own book 3 I'll read it too but I think I've had enough of this series so it's a good thing there are only 3 books. This was a fairly easy read but not a great deal of suspense or excitement. I'd still recommend the series to a friend though. It's a good book to read whilst sitting on the porch or patio!
November 18, 2015
3.5 Stars
Sheriff's Detective Kendall Stark and Birdy Waterman, forensic pathologist, are targeted by Brenda Nevins, an escaped prisoner. Brenda isn't an ordinary prisoner, she has killed multiple times and enjoys it enough that she's never going to stop. She's out for revenge and Stark and Waterman are on notice.
While Nevins is making her plans, Kendall is thrown into looking at a cold case .. a teenage girl who went missing four years earlier and has never been seen since. A self-proclaimed "psychic" and her reality show are featuring this case and want her there for the big reveal of what happened to the girl.
That ends in a catastrophe and more lives are lost as a direct result. And then Nevins joins in the killing fest, so we have bodies everywhere and it's up to Stark and Waterman to figure out what's what.
I've read several of Gregg Olsen's books .. mostly his true crime.. so I was just a tad disappointed in this one. The characters seem a little overblown. There are many background characters to keep track of and at times it's like trying to move through sludge. The story line is alright .. just not terribly mysterious or suspenseful.
And to top it off, there is a cliff hanger that will be taken up in his next book .... JUST TRY TO STOP ME ....sometime in 2016.
My thanks to the author / Kensington Books / NetGalley who furnished a digital copy in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
Sheriff's Detective Kendall Stark and Birdy Waterman, forensic pathologist, are targeted by Brenda Nevins, an escaped prisoner. Brenda isn't an ordinary prisoner, she has killed multiple times and enjoys it enough that she's never going to stop. She's out for revenge and Stark and Waterman are on notice.
While Nevins is making her plans, Kendall is thrown into looking at a cold case .. a teenage girl who went missing four years earlier and has never been seen since. A self-proclaimed "psychic" and her reality show are featuring this case and want her there for the big reveal of what happened to the girl.
That ends in a catastrophe and more lives are lost as a direct result. And then Nevins joins in the killing fest, so we have bodies everywhere and it's up to Stark and Waterman to figure out what's what.
I've read several of Gregg Olsen's books .. mostly his true crime.. so I was just a tad disappointed in this one. The characters seem a little overblown. There are many background characters to keep track of and at times it's like trying to move through sludge. The story line is alright .. just not terribly mysterious or suspenseful.
And to top it off, there is a cliff hanger that will be taken up in his next book .... JUST TRY TO STOP ME ....sometime in 2016.
My thanks to the author / Kensington Books / NetGalley who furnished a digital copy in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
November 15, 2015
It has been a really long time since I have read anything by Mr. Olsen. So when I had the chance to read this book I jumped instantly on the chance without a second thought. The Prologue hooked me right away. Then after that the story was fine. Just I kept reading. It was not until I was about twenty two chapters in that I was wondering when the story was going to start. What I mean by this is that Brenda was the only person of any real interest. Everyone else including Birdy and Kendall bored me and unimpressed me. Plus all of the other secondary characters got on my nerves. After a while longer of reading this book, I jumped to the ending, which was so, so.
I am saddened by this book. Not the author's best showing. Luckily I have read other books by this author and so I know just how good of an writer Mr. Olsen is.
I am saddened by this book. Not the author's best showing. Luckily I have read other books by this author and so I know just how good of an writer Mr. Olsen is.
November 29, 2018
This is the middle book in a trilogy, but fortunately for me, could be read as a standalone. Having said that, I will go back and read/listen to the first one in this serial killer trilogy. Serial killer Brenda Nevins, escapes from prison, with the help of Warden Janie Thomas. Detective Kendall Stark and Forensic Pathologist, Birdy Waterman are assumed to be targets. As this is going on, Stark is assigned to help a reality television show featuring a psychic and disgraced cop solve a local cold case. Kendall is overwhelmed with work and with her deteriorating circumstances at home. Frustrated on both fronts, Kendall uses her dogged determination to try to solve the cases and right the wrongs.
This book has a fast paced plot, good side story and great characters. Kendall Stark and Native American Birdy Waterman are a great team. They are supreme problem solvers. There was a line in the book that describes Birdy very accurately. When Birdy has a body on the table she "prays for them and promises to find out what happened." Kendall is just as determined to solve the case. I enjoyed the unmasking of the reality show and the characters involved in that, it gave credence to that storyline for me. I had some issues with parts of this story though. I did not like how Kendall fell apart when dealing with Brenda (the serial killer). She provoked her, whether on purpose of unintentionally and that was a bit disconcerting. I also dislike abrupt and cliffhanger type endings. I know I will have to read the next book to find out what happens, but will read book 1 first.
This book has a fast paced plot, good side story and great characters. Kendall Stark and Native American Birdy Waterman are a great team. They are supreme problem solvers. There was a line in the book that describes Birdy very accurately. When Birdy has a body on the table she "prays for them and promises to find out what happened." Kendall is just as determined to solve the case. I enjoyed the unmasking of the reality show and the characters involved in that, it gave credence to that storyline for me. I had some issues with parts of this story though. I did not like how Kendall fell apart when dealing with Brenda (the serial killer). She provoked her, whether on purpose of unintentionally and that was a bit disconcerting. I also dislike abrupt and cliffhanger type endings. I know I will have to read the next book to find out what happens, but will read book 1 first.
December 20, 2020
I wish I had known this was a sequel, it would have explained so much. Things make more sense that I know now. Not that it changes the fact that this was a real chore to read. No, sirree, nothing will change that. I had big problems with the fact that this book comprised of some of the flattest, most boring, one dimensional characters I have ever had the misfortune of reading about. Not only are they bland and boring, they are uneven. There are few things that annoy me as much as character inconsistencies, and Olsen's characters are riddled with them, which is just unacceptable.
I got this book to read about the promised serial killer. Come on, that psyche is something that has always fascinated me. A female one? We get so little of that, so much potential. Nope, not what I got. I got a plain, silly Brenda Nevins with her fake boobs and immensely lacking character. She was lame, she did not scare me or fascinate me at all, which was a real pity. I so wanted more. I felt not one ounce of fear or urgency at any single part of this book. When I come to read a crime thriller, I expect those aspects to be present, and I was sorely disappointed to not have them feature here.
I feel that there was no backstory for anything that happened in this novel, though I am unsure as to whether or not that is because I missed the last one. Indeed, if that is the reason, Olsen should have given us enough material to move us along in this one and not leave the reader feeling bewildered and confused within the first two chapters. I found that there were absolutely no characters that I liked or wanted to back and support at all, which is not really what you want from a story. I also found the plot lines to be exceptionally forced.
I know this review is harsh, and it really is not what I envisioned, and not what I wanted to write, but the book really just did nothing for me, and then just ended, leaving me hanging with nothing wrapping up, and I cannot stand that in a book. I cannot recommend this book, especially not to those who enjoy thrillers, and expect a page turner, gore, a serious story, and an antagonist and protagonist that will draw you in.
I got this book to read about the promised serial killer. Come on, that psyche is something that has always fascinated me. A female one? We get so little of that, so much potential. Nope, not what I got. I got a plain, silly Brenda Nevins with her fake boobs and immensely lacking character. She was lame, she did not scare me or fascinate me at all, which was a real pity. I so wanted more. I felt not one ounce of fear or urgency at any single part of this book. When I come to read a crime thriller, I expect those aspects to be present, and I was sorely disappointed to not have them feature here.
I feel that there was no backstory for anything that happened in this novel, though I am unsure as to whether or not that is because I missed the last one. Indeed, if that is the reason, Olsen should have given us enough material to move us along in this one and not leave the reader feeling bewildered and confused within the first two chapters. I found that there were absolutely no characters that I liked or wanted to back and support at all, which is not really what you want from a story. I also found the plot lines to be exceptionally forced.
I know this review is harsh, and it really is not what I envisioned, and not what I wanted to write, but the book really just did nothing for me, and then just ended, leaving me hanging with nothing wrapping up, and I cannot stand that in a book. I cannot recommend this book, especially not to those who enjoy thrillers, and expect a page turner, gore, a serious story, and an antagonist and protagonist that will draw you in.
December 31, 2015
Now That She's Gone (Waterman and Stark #2), by Gregg Olsen looked really interesting from the book's blurb. This is the 2nd book in the Waterman & Stark series, having read the first book, I was really excited when I was approved for a copy from NetGalley.
Unfortunately I found the book to be a very bland & mediocre mystery. It just felt like so much was missing ( like depth of the story, more suspense, mystery, more descriptive murders, more connection between the murders and there place in the plot, better connections between characters) There‘s a real soap operaish feel to all of the drama in the book, and no shortage of characters to carry it out.
I found I really didn’t like many of the characters, and I had a hard time believing in the role that Kendall was in, she just wasn’t convincing for me. The relationships between characters in the book were so thin, I wanted more connection, they just felt flat and one dimensional. I wanted Brenda to be a creepier villain; I wanted her acts to be so despicable that I knew why I was hating her. In fact just as the Brenda Nevins storyline picks up and there’s a possibility that the book might improve the reader is left with a surprise! I guess I just wanted / expected more than the author was able to give me.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley on behalf of Kensington Books/Pinnacle for an honest review.
The expected publication date is Nov 24, 2015
For me this was a 2.75 star read which I’ll round up to three stars
Unfortunately I found the book to be a very bland & mediocre mystery. It just felt like so much was missing ( like depth of the story, more suspense, mystery, more descriptive murders, more connection between the murders and there place in the plot, better connections between characters) There‘s a real soap operaish feel to all of the drama in the book, and no shortage of characters to carry it out.
I found I really didn’t like many of the characters, and I had a hard time believing in the role that Kendall was in, she just wasn’t convincing for me. The relationships between characters in the book were so thin, I wanted more connection, they just felt flat and one dimensional. I wanted Brenda to be a creepier villain; I wanted her acts to be so despicable that I knew why I was hating her. In fact just as the Brenda Nevins storyline picks up and there’s a possibility that the book might improve the reader is left with a surprise! I guess I just wanted / expected more than the author was able to give me.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley on behalf of Kensington Books/Pinnacle for an honest review.
The expected publication date is Nov 24, 2015
For me this was a 2.75 star read which I’ll round up to three stars
November 8, 2015
Predictable. Skip it.
November 9, 2015
I find the Waterman and Stark stories as a new partnership in the serial mystery series that is an enjoyable read. In this book Kendall and Birdie are trying to stay one step ahead of a serial killer "Brenda Nevins" who has turned an otherwise exemplary warden of her penitentiary into her accomplice. As she leaves a trail of bodies and calls taunting Kendall and Birdie the story widens as she remains on the loose. In the meantime Kendall has been ordered to appear on a physic's television show for a case of a missing teen from several years ago and try to explain why her department could not solve this case even though she was not a member of their force at that time. Great read. I would like to thank the publisher and Net Galley for the chance to read this ARC.
November 10, 2015
Review featured at www.books-n-kisses.com
While this is part of a series it can be read as a stand alone. I enjoyed the story very much. There are some parts that were a bit odd to me. I thought it really odd that the serial killer didn't have much of a role in the story this time. I did enjoy the reality tv part and the psychics.
Saying too much about this story can give a lot of it away and because there are a lot of twist and turns I think saying too much would be a bad thing.
The writing is really good and like I said with all the suspense it really keeps your attention. Highly recommended.
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
While this is part of a series it can be read as a stand alone. I enjoyed the story very much. There are some parts that were a bit odd to me. I thought it really odd that the serial killer didn't have much of a role in the story this time. I did enjoy the reality tv part and the psychics.
Saying too much about this story can give a lot of it away and because there are a lot of twist and turns I think saying too much would be a bad thing.
The writing is really good and like I said with all the suspense it really keeps your attention. Highly recommended.
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
March 3, 2022
On the suggestion of some people in a Facebook group, I picked up a Gregg Olsen. The writing was predictable and smutty. There was little prosecution for the obvious criminals. The main characters fell flat. I just can't think of anything that redeems this book.
December 18, 2020
This book is second in the series - definitely needs to be read in order! I enjoy reading it even though it is filled with editorial misses and leaves MANY unanswered questions. Like where did the hypo and heroin come from? Wouldn’t the dealer have been suspicious of this purchase and come forward? Am I the only one who wonders about this stuff. That cost a star!
Another star lost over all the sexual references - we understand the act, but do we have to read about it in detail? Brenda makes me sick to my stomach and all the teenagers were in need of a good smack! I still like Birdy and Kendall, but Steven is a total dumb kluck who Stark ought to dump immediately.
Of course I have to read Book # 3, as this one leaves the reader hanging at the end. It reminds me of Patterson’s Gary Soneji (sp?) a character who appeared in many of his first novels and always seemed to escape capture!
Another star lost over all the sexual references - we understand the act, but do we have to read about it in detail? Brenda makes me sick to my stomach and all the teenagers were in need of a good smack! I still like Birdy and Kendall, but Steven is a total dumb kluck who Stark ought to dump immediately.
Of course I have to read Book # 3, as this one leaves the reader hanging at the end. It reminds me of Patterson’s Gary Soneji (sp?) a character who appeared in many of his first novels and always seemed to escape capture!
November 8, 2015
This was a different book. The female serial killer, while she had a slight role in the book, was not the major factor going on. It appears that she's the main character in a series of books by this author. Which was fine with me. She's kind of weird anyways. I wasn't all that into her, she seemed to be like a last minute kind of thing just thrown into the story.
The main story dealt with the, of course, the detective, Kendall and the forensic pathologist, Birdy, as the main stars. With the main focus being on this weird, reality TV show that's coming to town to film a cold case unsolved from four years back.
I won't say much more about the story line because I don't want to give away any spoilers. However, I will say there was a lot of drama on the reality actors part that over and above what was needed.
The story was pretty well written. I liked how the detective knew a lot of stuff and did not let on to the reality actors that she knew the difference. The whole story of what did happen four years ago does come out and boy is it messed up.
The story definitely kept me interested as there were no really slow parts in it and I was certainly perplexed as to what really did happen four years ago. As for the serial killer, she really didn't keep me interested. She was like a ghostly witch who appears once in a while trying to scare you, but everyone ignores her. Maybe her role is better written in the other books. As she was just really fluff in this one for me.
Thanks Kensington Books and Net Galley for providing me with this free e-galley in exchange for an honest review. I would recommend the book and I would definitely read more of his books, no matter my seemingly negative comments above, as I didn't mean for them to be negative.
The main story dealt with the, of course, the detective, Kendall and the forensic pathologist, Birdy, as the main stars. With the main focus being on this weird, reality TV show that's coming to town to film a cold case unsolved from four years back.
I won't say much more about the story line because I don't want to give away any spoilers. However, I will say there was a lot of drama on the reality actors part that over and above what was needed.
The story was pretty well written. I liked how the detective knew a lot of stuff and did not let on to the reality actors that she knew the difference. The whole story of what did happen four years ago does come out and boy is it messed up.
The story definitely kept me interested as there were no really slow parts in it and I was certainly perplexed as to what really did happen four years ago. As for the serial killer, she really didn't keep me interested. She was like a ghostly witch who appears once in a while trying to scare you, but everyone ignores her. Maybe her role is better written in the other books. As she was just really fluff in this one for me.
Thanks Kensington Books and Net Galley for providing me with this free e-galley in exchange for an honest review. I would recommend the book and I would definitely read more of his books, no matter my seemingly negative comments above, as I didn't mean for them to be negative.
December 3, 2015
I was given an electronic copy by Kensington Books and NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Serial killer Brenda Nevins, with the help of Warden Janie Thomas, waltzes right out of prison and continues her murderous ways. Between trying to track her down and a cold case that has brought an alleged psychic bent on meddling, Detective Kendall Stark is overwhelmed with work and with her deteriorating circumstances at home. Frustrated on both fronts, Kendall uses her dogged determination to try to right all of the wrongs in her life.
With a fast paced plot and great characters such as the team of Detective Kendall Stark and Forensic Pathologist Birdy Waterman, Now That She's Gone was a thrilling read, but not a very surprising one. Both the cold case and the active one had endings that were telegraphed, taking away much of the impact of the story. Besides the lack of an explosive reveal, the abrupt ending left me with the feeling that the book was somewhat unfinished. The biggest problem that I had with Kendall was how she lost her composure and sank to serial killer Brenda's level. A police officer would never use the kind of derogatory language Kendall used on the phone with Brenda, especially when she knew it would provoke her. Also, knowing that she and Birdy were being targeted, you would think that precautions would have been taken to insure their safety and that of their families. Now That She's Gone might appeal to readers who like police procedural novels that are not full of mystery or intrigue.
Serial killer Brenda Nevins, with the help of Warden Janie Thomas, waltzes right out of prison and continues her murderous ways. Between trying to track her down and a cold case that has brought an alleged psychic bent on meddling, Detective Kendall Stark is overwhelmed with work and with her deteriorating circumstances at home. Frustrated on both fronts, Kendall uses her dogged determination to try to right all of the wrongs in her life.
With a fast paced plot and great characters such as the team of Detective Kendall Stark and Forensic Pathologist Birdy Waterman, Now That She's Gone was a thrilling read, but not a very surprising one. Both the cold case and the active one had endings that were telegraphed, taking away much of the impact of the story. Besides the lack of an explosive reveal, the abrupt ending left me with the feeling that the book was somewhat unfinished. The biggest problem that I had with Kendall was how she lost her composure and sank to serial killer Brenda's level. A police officer would never use the kind of derogatory language Kendall used on the phone with Brenda, especially when she knew it would provoke her. Also, knowing that she and Birdy were being targeted, you would think that precautions would have been taken to insure their safety and that of their families. Now That She's Gone might appeal to readers who like police procedural novels that are not full of mystery or intrigue.
November 24, 2015
4.5 I received this book from Net Galley for a truthful review.
This second book in the Waterman and Stark series opens with a bang. A female prison warden, Jane Thomas, is escaping with her lover the notorious female serial killer, Brenda Nevins. This is one theme of the novel. The other theme is a cold case disappearance of a young girl, Katy Frazier, that Kendall Stark is looking into after a famous psychic, Pandora, makes some allegations about Katie's disappearance.
The two main characters, Kendall Stark and Native American Birdy Waterman are a great team. They are supreme problem solvers. There was a line in the book that describes Birdy very accurately. When Birdy has a body on the table she "prays for them and promises to find out what happened." Kendall is just as determined to solve the case.
One of the interesting dilemmas in the book is the fact that no one is what he or she seems on the surface. It seems that most people have some dark piece that is hidden from others, even the ones who supposedly know them the most. It made me wonder if all people have a public face that hides something within. This trait was even seen with Brenda Nevin's mother whose home was meticulous on the outside, but a smelly and filthy mess inside.
This book is a winner and is quite readable. It moves along quickly with many twists and turns. I highly recommend this book.
This second book in the Waterman and Stark series opens with a bang. A female prison warden, Jane Thomas, is escaping with her lover the notorious female serial killer, Brenda Nevins. This is one theme of the novel. The other theme is a cold case disappearance of a young girl, Katy Frazier, that Kendall Stark is looking into after a famous psychic, Pandora, makes some allegations about Katie's disappearance.
The two main characters, Kendall Stark and Native American Birdy Waterman are a great team. They are supreme problem solvers. There was a line in the book that describes Birdy very accurately. When Birdy has a body on the table she "prays for them and promises to find out what happened." Kendall is just as determined to solve the case.
One of the interesting dilemmas in the book is the fact that no one is what he or she seems on the surface. It seems that most people have some dark piece that is hidden from others, even the ones who supposedly know them the most. It made me wonder if all people have a public face that hides something within. This trait was even seen with Brenda Nevin's mother whose home was meticulous on the outside, but a smelly and filthy mess inside.
This book is a winner and is quite readable. It moves along quickly with many twists and turns. I highly recommend this book.
November 24, 2015
Brenda Nevins, a notorious serial killer has escaped from prison with the aid of a prison employee. She is on a mission of revenge and want to gain fame. She has her sites set on sheriffs detective Kendall Stark and forensic pathologist Birdy Waterman. She will target anyone who will benefit her or just for the fun of it. She enjoys killing. We also have the character of Tv psychic Pandora who wrecks havoc on the lives of anyone who comes into contact with her. The book is full of twists and turns with several cases that Kendall is working on at once. Brenda is not done yet. She will be back.
November 16, 2015
Olsen pens another winner with a chilling novel featuring a woman serial killer. I am officially hooked on his books and have to read all of them now. Kendall Stark and Birdy Waterman make a dynamic team. Anticipating the next book and what's in store for us as readers gives me goose bumps. The cliffhanger ending had me shrieking in frustration because I want the next book now. Sigh!
October 20, 2020
Female serial killer. Conniving teenager. Moms. 3 full stars but perhaps too much over-the-top plot to raise it to 4 stars. Still, this author is a good quick read and gets the blood pumping in the thriller department.
April 12, 2020
This book really isn’t a novel. Instead it’s a series of events. There doesn’t seem to be a plot. The book just goes on and on and then it’s over. Really?
June 15, 2017
This was my first read in Author Gregg Olsen's Waterman & Stark Thriller Series and I loved it. I have always been a Gregg Olsen fan of his true crime books and I just started reading his fiction books this year. He is such a skilled author that I have to keep reminding myself that what I am reading is fiction since what he writes is so believable. I cannot wait to read the rest of the books in this series. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a good thriller.
June 8, 2024
My feeling is that Birdy is not as major a character in this book of the series (I hope she will return as a bigger character). Kendall is a good cop character, but she didn't resonate with me as good a.lead as Birdy. Basic story dead people, let's find out who dunnit.
This book doesn't have good closure on to many of the story lines and therefore may be a fair bridge (yet to be seen) to the next book but definitely not a stand alone.
This book doesn't have good closure on to many of the story lines and therefore may be a fair bridge (yet to be seen) to the next book but definitely not a stand alone.
June 8, 2024
The partnership counties with Birdy and Kendall. They are still trying to track down Brenda Nevins and had another crime to solve (from 10 years ago). I thought this book was not quite as interesting as the first book, but I still enjoyed it. There were a lot of characters to keep track of
January 26, 2019
Book 2 was a good read, but enjoyed Book one of the series better. The Serial Killer is still at large, so onto the FINALE...
January 22, 2023
Greg Olsen really has written a fine book, Now That She’s Gone. I really would have ranked this book much higher except for one part of the book that includes a psychic and an ex-cop and a low-grade cable show. I just could not embrace this part of the Now That She’s Gone and it is a considerably long part. However, it is built on later in the story so I guess that the reader will just have to go with it.
Brenda Nevins ,the most famous female serial killer in Washington State, is a prisoner. She is an excellent manipulative user who will stop at nothing to obtain her means. Nevins has a score to settle and she plans her escape. Sheriff’s Detective Kendall Starks and forensic pathologist Birdie Waterman are on her list of items to clean up. (The Starks/Waterman scenes of Now That She’s Gone are very interesting and add significantly to the quality.) Oh, and if others die along the way, oh well.
Kendall is investigating a cold case involving a missing teenage girl from four years ago. This is where the psychic and the former cop who have reality cable show enter the story. The parents of the missing girl insist on the program try and solve the case. The parents insist on Kendall being on the show, too, and the appearance by Kendall does nothing for professionalism. And then Brenda Nevins enters the story again. Things get ugly and the story gets messy. More people end up dead and the girl is still missing.
I have read a couple of Greg Olsen’s fiction thrillers in the past and they were considerably better. However, this is a good read but it just let me down. Yet, I shall read other Greg Olsen thrillers in the future. I give Now That She’s Gone a 3-star rating.
Brenda Nevins ,the most famous female serial killer in Washington State, is a prisoner. She is an excellent manipulative user who will stop at nothing to obtain her means. Nevins has a score to settle and she plans her escape. Sheriff’s Detective Kendall Starks and forensic pathologist Birdie Waterman are on her list of items to clean up. (The Starks/Waterman scenes of Now That She’s Gone are very interesting and add significantly to the quality.) Oh, and if others die along the way, oh well.
Kendall is investigating a cold case involving a missing teenage girl from four years ago. This is where the psychic and the former cop who have reality cable show enter the story. The parents of the missing girl insist on the program try and solve the case. The parents insist on Kendall being on the show, too, and the appearance by Kendall does nothing for professionalism. And then Brenda Nevins enters the story again. Things get ugly and the story gets messy. More people end up dead and the girl is still missing.
I have read a couple of Greg Olsen’s fiction thrillers in the past and they were considerably better. However, this is a good read but it just let me down. Yet, I shall read other Greg Olsen thrillers in the future. I give Now That She’s Gone a 3-star rating.
November 14, 2020
While Sheriff Detective Kendall Stark and Forensic Pathologist Birdy Waterman work together to solve several crimes, they are beset with interference from escaped murderer Brenda Nevins. I don’t know if it was the author’s style, the plot development or my own preferences, but I felt that this book was slow moving and somewhat disjointed. I did finish it and felt it was just average.
November 28, 2015
I haven't read the first book in the Stark/Waterman series but it didn't impact on my ability to read this second addition to the series as it can be read as a standalone.
Kendall Stark is balancing her home life of child and distant husband with trying to solve an old missing persons case. Along with Birdy Waterman, they are entering the "reality tv show" realm to help them after the family call in psychic Pandora and her partner Wyatt. They are also being stalked by serial killer Brenda who has escaped from prison and is heading their way.
This book starts off quite confusing with lots of characters and flitting around a bit but once we meet Kendall it seems to settle down. I loved the character of Kendall and found her very personable as was Birdy. The serial killer story kind of took a back burner to the case of Katy who was missing presumed dead. The awful tv crew were very well characterized as I couldn't stand a single one of them!
I've read books by Gregg Olsen before (I particularly like the Emily Kenyon series) but didn't feel this was one of his best and it didn't tempt me into reading the first in this series. I may read any follow ups depending on whether I find the plot a little more interesting than this one.
I received a copy of the book via netgalley in return for an unbiased review.
Kendall Stark is balancing her home life of child and distant husband with trying to solve an old missing persons case. Along with Birdy Waterman, they are entering the "reality tv show" realm to help them after the family call in psychic Pandora and her partner Wyatt. They are also being stalked by serial killer Brenda who has escaped from prison and is heading their way.
This book starts off quite confusing with lots of characters and flitting around a bit but once we meet Kendall it seems to settle down. I loved the character of Kendall and found her very personable as was Birdy. The serial killer story kind of took a back burner to the case of Katy who was missing presumed dead. The awful tv crew were very well characterized as I couldn't stand a single one of them!
I've read books by Gregg Olsen before (I particularly like the Emily Kenyon series) but didn't feel this was one of his best and it didn't tempt me into reading the first in this series. I may read any follow ups depending on whether I find the plot a little more interesting than this one.
I received a copy of the book via netgalley in return for an unbiased review.
January 18, 2016
She did see the great value she could bring to the justice system. She could see the sad appreciation on the faces of those who wanted to know the why behind the unthinkable. Sometimes, she knew, the why wouldn't be enough.
Forensic pathologist Birdy Waterman and sheriff’s detective Kendall Stark work well together as they bring justice to their little town in Washington State. Kendall has compassion and no patience for those of the Narcissistic kind. Her compassion comes from her Autistic son and her lack of patience from seeing justice denied. Her lack of patience is about to be tested when she is required by her boss to do a reality show on a cold case involving the disappearance of a local girl. It becomes personal when the cold case and the escape of Brenda Nevins collide.
Narcissism is the key word for this thriller and it comes in all kinds using everything in its power to make itself known. That being said, this is a free for all when it comes to anything goes. Kendall's character brings it home in pursuit of righting a wrong and having faith that it can be right.
A real page turner with twists and turns and cliff hanger! Looking forward to the next installment!
A Special Thank You to Kensington Books and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
Forensic pathologist Birdy Waterman and sheriff’s detective Kendall Stark work well together as they bring justice to their little town in Washington State. Kendall has compassion and no patience for those of the Narcissistic kind. Her compassion comes from her Autistic son and her lack of patience from seeing justice denied. Her lack of patience is about to be tested when she is required by her boss to do a reality show on a cold case involving the disappearance of a local girl. It becomes personal when the cold case and the escape of Brenda Nevins collide.
Narcissism is the key word for this thriller and it comes in all kinds using everything in its power to make itself known. That being said, this is a free for all when it comes to anything goes. Kendall's character brings it home in pursuit of righting a wrong and having faith that it can be right.
A real page turner with twists and turns and cliff hanger! Looking forward to the next installment!
A Special Thank You to Kensington Books and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
December 23, 2016
Now That She's Gone is the second book in Gregg Olsen's Waterman and Stark series. It continues where the first book left off (so I'd suggest reading book 1 first). I have listened to the audio books for this series and think they are really good.
This story is told from the perspective of Kendall Stark (detective), Birdie Waterman (coroner and pseudo-detective), and Brenda Nevins (serial killer at large). Kendall Stark gets pulled into a cold case when a reality psychic show wants to dig into the missing persons case and help the family. Unfortunately as soon as Stark gets involved, more dead bodies start showing up. At the same time, a serial killer that Waterman and Stark interviewed previously, Brenda Nivens, starts to slowly reappear... so there are really 2 different cases going on in this book.
Additionally, since this is a series, the author also weaves in personal stories of Waterman and Stark. The first book had more of Birdie Waterman's life and troubles, and this book has mostly Kendall Stark's. I think these stories help the reader feel closer to the 2 women, and also keep you interested, hence waiting for the next book in the series.
Good book, good narrator, and good mystery make a very enjoyable book.
This story is told from the perspective of Kendall Stark (detective), Birdie Waterman (coroner and pseudo-detective), and Brenda Nevins (serial killer at large). Kendall Stark gets pulled into a cold case when a reality psychic show wants to dig into the missing persons case and help the family. Unfortunately as soon as Stark gets involved, more dead bodies start showing up. At the same time, a serial killer that Waterman and Stark interviewed previously, Brenda Nivens, starts to slowly reappear... so there are really 2 different cases going on in this book.
Additionally, since this is a series, the author also weaves in personal stories of Waterman and Stark. The first book had more of Birdie Waterman's life and troubles, and this book has mostly Kendall Stark's. I think these stories help the reader feel closer to the 2 women, and also keep you interested, hence waiting for the next book in the series.
Good book, good narrator, and good mystery make a very enjoyable book.
November 7, 2015
It was great to spend some time again with Brenda Nevins, a pure evil, psycho serial killer and the team of Birdy Waterman, the forensic examiner, and Kendall Stark, the detective. I love these characters who I first met in book one: The Girl in the Woods (Waterman and Stark, #1).
At first I was a bit disappointed because from reading the synopsis I expected Brenda Nevins to be the primary focus of the story. But then I very quickly became absorbed in the other characters (old & new) and their stories.
Gregg Olsen has written another good solid novel with intriguing characters, twists and turns that took me on an enjoyable journey of mystery, crime, suspense and the challenge of trying to figure it all out before he told me.
When I read the ending it left the door wide open for book #3 and to my delight it appears Brenda Nevins will be back full force in this one. Keeping my fingers crossed as I look forward to another Waterman and Stark (and much more of Nevins).
Thank you to NetGalley for a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
At first I was a bit disappointed because from reading the synopsis I expected Brenda Nevins to be the primary focus of the story. But then I very quickly became absorbed in the other characters (old & new) and their stories.
Gregg Olsen has written another good solid novel with intriguing characters, twists and turns that took me on an enjoyable journey of mystery, crime, suspense and the challenge of trying to figure it all out before he told me.
When I read the ending it left the door wide open for book #3 and to my delight it appears Brenda Nevins will be back full force in this one. Keeping my fingers crossed as I look forward to another Waterman and Stark (and much more of Nevins).
Thank you to NetGalley for a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
October 19, 2015
Thank you NetGallery for the advance reading of Now That She's Gone. I have been a fan of this series for quite a while. Olsen knows his stuff when it comes to police procedures and creates a very likeable team, Kendall and Birdy. This is a stand alone, but I suggest you go back and read the others because they won't disappoint.
Returning character, Brenda Nevins, a serial killer who is gorgeous and dangerous is back to taunt Kendall and Birdy. Olsen brings to life some new blood with an interesting hitch - TV psychics that converge upon the small Seattle suburb to add more havoc to our ladies case load.
There are twists and turns, and really great dialogue that will keep you guessing till the end.
This was a very good read, and I highly recommend.
Returning character, Brenda Nevins, a serial killer who is gorgeous and dangerous is back to taunt Kendall and Birdy. Olsen brings to life some new blood with an interesting hitch - TV psychics that converge upon the small Seattle suburb to add more havoc to our ladies case load.
There are twists and turns, and really great dialogue that will keep you guessing till the end.
This was a very good read, and I highly recommend.
November 30, 2015
I received this arc from Netgalley.
Unfortunately about the only thing this book did was annoy me. Be warned, there may be a couple of SPOILERS ahead, but I'll try not to give the book away. A threatening message is left for the detective and Birdy, but it isn't turned over to the FBI? Kendall, after being threatened by a serial killer, doesn't say a word to the people at Cody's school about being extra vigilant? Those were just a few of the things that got on my nerves. Oh, I can't forget about the cliffhanger ending. I'll just be left in the dark about how this one ends because I refuse to pick up another book by this author.
Unfortunately about the only thing this book did was annoy me. Be warned, there may be a couple of SPOILERS ahead, but I'll try not to give the book away. A threatening message is left for the detective and Birdy, but it isn't turned over to the FBI? Kendall, after being threatened by a serial killer, doesn't say a word to the people at Cody's school about being extra vigilant? Those were just a few of the things that got on my nerves. Oh, I can't forget about the cliffhanger ending. I'll just be left in the dark about how this one ends because I refuse to pick up another book by this author.
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