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Sylver and Gold #2
The Value of Sylver and Gold
When word gets out that former Boston homicide detective Reid Sylver can talk to the dead, the FBI solicits her help on a serial murder case. Reid has only one the FBI must let her run the investigation with Detective London Gold and the rest of her team by her side.
London’s resilience is put to the test when she’s abducted by the killer they’re hunting. The one thing she has that his other victims didn’t is a close-knit team of detectives who are willing to color outside the lines of the law to find her.
Pressure mounts as Reid hits one dead end after another. The clock’s running out, and her team’s fresh out of ideas. There’s one tool left in Reid’s investigative arsenal. But using it scares her almost as much as losing the woman she loves.
Book 2 in the Sylver and Gold series.
London’s resilience is put to the test when she’s abducted by the killer they’re hunting. The one thing she has that his other victims didn’t is a close-knit team of detectives who are willing to color outside the lines of the law to find her.
Pressure mounts as Reid hits one dead end after another. The clock’s running out, and her team’s fresh out of ideas. There’s one tool left in Reid’s investigative arsenal. But using it scares her almost as much as losing the woman she loves.
Book 2 in the Sylver and Gold series.
236 pages, Paperback
Published April 11, 2023
15 people are currently reading
134 people want to read
About the author
Michelle Larkin
9 books140 followersMichelle’s an author of lesbian romantic thrillers, a long-distance runner with no sense of direction, and a nunchuck-wielding sidekick to a pair of superhero sons.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
April 12, 2023
3.25 stars. This series mixes crime investigations with a touch of paranormal and I loved the first book in the series and had very high expectations for this second book. This second book started really strong and had me hooked very fast, but I think the author wanted too much and the story suffered from that in the end. It was a nice read with good aspects and the potential for a great book, but it didn’t quite get there for me.
This is a series and it is best read as a series even though the cases are stand-alone stories. I think you might miss too much information to enjoy this book without having read the first book, plus the first book is a joy to read.
I liked reading more about Sylver and Gold, they are a fantastic couple and the banter between them and their team is what makes this book a lot of fun to read. I also greatly enjoyed the paranormal storyline, which had a few new surprises from what’s known from the first book and it’s good to see that there is still growth possible (even in books to come). Together they again hunt a serial killer and about halfway this book had me on the edge of my seat. However, to my surprise, the book took a turn and from there the story lost it for me. A character from Gold’s past is introduced causing drama between Sylver and Gold. They acted very out of character and on top of that I didn’t like the new character or the storyline at all. Because of all this drama there was little focus and time left for the serial killer case, which in the end felt too easy and convenient. There were also some unresolved parts, but this could be intentional to be picked up in the next book in the series.
All in all, this book had a great start, but wanted a bit too much in too little time/pages. I’m still a fan of Sylver and Gold and look forward to reading the next book in the series, my only hope is that this will be without this character from the past.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is a series and it is best read as a series even though the cases are stand-alone stories. I think you might miss too much information to enjoy this book without having read the first book, plus the first book is a joy to read.
I liked reading more about Sylver and Gold, they are a fantastic couple and the banter between them and their team is what makes this book a lot of fun to read. I also greatly enjoyed the paranormal storyline, which had a few new surprises from what’s known from the first book and it’s good to see that there is still growth possible (even in books to come). Together they again hunt a serial killer and about halfway this book had me on the edge of my seat. However, to my surprise, the book took a turn and from there the story lost it for me. A character from Gold’s past is introduced causing drama between Sylver and Gold. They acted very out of character and on top of that I didn’t like the new character or the storyline at all. Because of all this drama there was little focus and time left for the serial killer case, which in the end felt too easy and convenient. There were also some unresolved parts, but this could be intentional to be picked up in the next book in the series.
All in all, this book had a great start, but wanted a bit too much in too little time/pages. I’m still a fan of Sylver and Gold and look forward to reading the next book in the series, my only hope is that this will be without this character from the past.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 6, 2023
If you don't know the two protagonists of this story, apart from missing something really interesting, you better not start with this book, go find the first one, Sylver and Gold, you won't be disappointed.
Because this story follows the relationship, now romantic and professional at the same time, that the now retired Detective Reid Sylver and Detective London Gold, in the Boston Police Department.
Reid's skills are going to be required by the FBI to try to solve the case of a serial killer working in DC, but she doesn't want to separate from her team so all of them are going to embark on this project, both those who are in this world like those who don't.
It would not be prudent on my part to go too far into details, I think it is better that you discover them. Nor can I guarantee that this story will be to everyone's taste, if you are looking for a mystery plot with many nuances or a complicated plot, this is not going to be it.
But it has other things that have made it entertaining, interesting and recommendable.
Publisher Bold Strokes Books was kind enough to provide me with an advanced reading copy via Netgalley for my honest review
Because this story follows the relationship, now romantic and professional at the same time, that the now retired Detective Reid Sylver and Detective London Gold, in the Boston Police Department.
Reid's skills are going to be required by the FBI to try to solve the case of a serial killer working in DC, but she doesn't want to separate from her team so all of them are going to embark on this project, both those who are in this world like those who don't.
It would not be prudent on my part to go too far into details, I think it is better that you discover them. Nor can I guarantee that this story will be to everyone's taste, if you are looking for a mystery plot with many nuances or a complicated plot, this is not going to be it.
But it has other things that have made it entertaining, interesting and recommendable.
Publisher Bold Strokes Books was kind enough to provide me with an advanced reading copy via Netgalley for my honest review
March 28, 2023
Detective Reid Sylver talks to dead people.
Particularly the ones who have been murdered. In the first case that she worked with her now girlfriend London Gold, Reid had been outed to the policing community by a serial killer targeting her insecurities. A year after that fact, the Deputy Director of the FBI is asking Reid to join them on the hunt for a serial killer who is outsmarting them at every turn. Things then turn personal when London is taken by the killer.
Whew! Exciting. Action packed. Funny. And even an evil grandmother! This book has it all. Michelle Larkin is at her best giving us more of her Boston Police Department’s quirky detectives solving a case close to their hearts.
The Value of Sylver and Gold is brilliantly entertaining with a side of crazy town funny. Be sure not to miss adding this to your to be read list.
I received an advance review copy from Bold Strokes Books through NetGalley. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Particularly the ones who have been murdered. In the first case that she worked with her now girlfriend London Gold, Reid had been outed to the policing community by a serial killer targeting her insecurities. A year after that fact, the Deputy Director of the FBI is asking Reid to join them on the hunt for a serial killer who is outsmarting them at every turn. Things then turn personal when London is taken by the killer.
Whew! Exciting. Action packed. Funny. And even an evil grandmother! This book has it all. Michelle Larkin is at her best giving us more of her Boston Police Department’s quirky detectives solving a case close to their hearts.
The Value of Sylver and Gold is brilliantly entertaining with a side of crazy town funny. Be sure not to miss adding this to your to be read list.
I received an advance review copy from Bold Strokes Books through NetGalley. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 1, 2023
A sequel to Sylver and Gold.
If you enjoyed the first in the series, you are sure to enjoy this one. I did like getting back to see Reid Sylver and London Gold. A year later and in love and lust as ever. Bantering on. But I would have liked some more depth to the emotion and insight into the relationship beyond sex, and have some actual feelings being more present.
This is very much a police precedural, and I think honestly in the 3 years since the first installment, my own tastes and attitudes have changed in regards to this genre, which simply hasn't helped my own reaction, and is not the authors fault in any way.
It was great to see the whole Boston Homicide team back, as well, also bantering on - while working on cases as a major FBI case gets dropped in their lap, in need of Reid's special psychic medium abilities. She appears to be growing in her skills, but is hesitant about them, too. Seemingly haunted by the spirit of her dead abusive grandmother, who is trying to send a message and interrupting 'sexy times' between the two lovers.
A threat looms close against London, causing grief but also teamwork to solve it. But I have to admit to never really feeling the depth of emotion I should have. I felt the same about the threats in the previous book, how they seemed so cliche in that 'criminal minds' way, so that I never really felt any true sense of fear or threat from the perpetrator. It all gets far too easily solved in very anti-climactic ways. Which again is nothing unusual for the genre or the writing.
There's some weirdness that pops up toward the end, with a friend character of Londons, who just weirded me out, TBH. Someone I thought (and still do think) might have been a suspect. I didn't like that character or aspect, and the overall idea of pushing Reid to *have* to move away from Boston Homicide and 'do more' with her gift.
Ultimately, I'm sorta glad to have checked in with these characters, but I really don't think it added much more to the characters development or story? It just felt like any other 'case of the week' style of story. So, I'm not sure I'd be interested in any further installments, on just a personal level and my own reaction to a lot of things that happened here, which is clearly my own issues coming into play.
As always read the other reviews that rated is better than I, and try it for yourself!
If you enjoyed the first in the series, you are sure to enjoy this one. I did like getting back to see Reid Sylver and London Gold. A year later and in love and lust as ever. Bantering on. But I would have liked some more depth to the emotion and insight into the relationship beyond sex, and have some actual feelings being more present.
This is very much a police precedural, and I think honestly in the 3 years since the first installment, my own tastes and attitudes have changed in regards to this genre, which simply hasn't helped my own reaction, and is not the authors fault in any way.
It was great to see the whole Boston Homicide team back, as well, also bantering on - while working on cases as a major FBI case gets dropped in their lap, in need of Reid's special psychic medium abilities. She appears to be growing in her skills, but is hesitant about them, too. Seemingly haunted by the spirit of her dead abusive grandmother, who is trying to send a message and interrupting 'sexy times' between the two lovers.
A threat looms close against London, causing grief but also teamwork to solve it. But I have to admit to never really feeling the depth of emotion I should have. I felt the same about the threats in the previous book, how they seemed so cliche in that 'criminal minds' way, so that I never really felt any true sense of fear or threat from the perpetrator. It all gets far too easily solved in very anti-climactic ways. Which again is nothing unusual for the genre or the writing.
There's some weirdness that pops up toward the end, with a friend character of Londons, who just weirded me out, TBH. Someone I thought (and still do think) might have been a suspect. I didn't like that character or aspect, and the overall idea of pushing Reid to *have* to move away from Boston Homicide and 'do more' with her gift.
Ultimately, I'm sorta glad to have checked in with these characters, but I really don't think it added much more to the characters development or story? It just felt like any other 'case of the week' style of story. So, I'm not sure I'd be interested in any further installments, on just a personal level and my own reaction to a lot of things that happened here, which is clearly my own issues coming into play.
As always read the other reviews that rated is better than I, and try it for yourself!
March 28, 2023
Detective Reid Sylver talks to dead people.
Particularly the ones who have been murdered. In the first case that she worked with her now girlfriend London Gold, Reid had been outed to the policing community by a serial killer targeting her insecurities. A year after that fact, the Deputy Director of the FBI is asking Reid to join them on the hunt for a serial killer who is outsmarting them at every turn. Things then turn personal when London is taken by the killer.
Whew! Exciting. Action packed. Funny. And even an evil grandmother! This book has it all. Michelle Larkin is at her best giving us more of her Boston Police Department’s quirky detectives solving a case close to their hearts.
The Value of Sylver and Gold is brilliantly entertaining with a side of crazy town funny. Be sure not to miss adding this to your to be read list.
I received an advance review copy from Bold Strokes Books through NetGalley. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Particularly the ones who have been murdered. In the first case that she worked with her now girlfriend London Gold, Reid had been outed to the policing community by a serial killer targeting her insecurities. A year after that fact, the Deputy Director of the FBI is asking Reid to join them on the hunt for a serial killer who is outsmarting them at every turn. Things then turn personal when London is taken by the killer.
Whew! Exciting. Action packed. Funny. And even an evil grandmother! This book has it all. Michelle Larkin is at her best giving us more of her Boston Police Department’s quirky detectives solving a case close to their hearts.
The Value of Sylver and Gold is brilliantly entertaining with a side of crazy town funny. Be sure not to miss adding this to your to be read list.
I received an advance review copy from Bold Strokes Books through NetGalley. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 16, 2023
3.5 stars
This story is the sequel to Larkins first book Sylver and Gold. Reid Sylver and London Gold and their team of detectives are out to stop a serial killer. They team up with the Assistant Director of the FBI to catch the psychopath who is abducting and killing women.
I liked the mystery and action of this book and the killer was especially evil. Larkin had me tense with her descriptions of his evil plotting and screaming. Sylver’s character has developed her psychic abilities and uses them to solve the crime. Lots of fun banter between the detectives. And Sylver and Gold have a black moment towards the end when a new character enters the story.
Larkin left a few storylines open, so hopefully she will write us another book with these fun characters and their next adventure in crime solving.
ARC received from Net Galley for an honest and voluntary review.
This story is the sequel to Larkins first book Sylver and Gold. Reid Sylver and London Gold and their team of detectives are out to stop a serial killer. They team up with the Assistant Director of the FBI to catch the psychopath who is abducting and killing women.
I liked the mystery and action of this book and the killer was especially evil. Larkin had me tense with her descriptions of his evil plotting and screaming. Sylver’s character has developed her psychic abilities and uses them to solve the crime. Lots of fun banter between the detectives. And Sylver and Gold have a black moment towards the end when a new character enters the story.
Larkin left a few storylines open, so hopefully she will write us another book with these fun characters and their next adventure in crime solving.
ARC received from Net Galley for an honest and voluntary review.
April 23, 2023
Brilliant. If you've not read the first book, Sylver and Good, I highly recommend you do. The sequel is just as good, with a great crime story, likeable character and some comical moments thrown in from the team.
All in all, I enjoyed this book, 4 out of 5
All in all, I enjoyed this book, 4 out of 5
April 3, 2023
I remember enjoying Sylver and Gold when it came out so I was happy to revisit the Boston PD.
I remember a lot of banter and a case with murders describe in some gruesome detail in Sylver and Gold, The Value of Sylver and Gold is different. Let me start by saying one formatting thing first, the line spacing is massive. My Kindle is set on narrow line spacing but this one... It felt like I could fit another line between the lines. Maybe I should have written some lines myself to make the book a little more exciting. The book isn't bad, the case is pretty interesting, but it feels like either a lot was cut or left half-finished. It's a bit of a shame. What we do get is a lot of repeated lines, lots of talk about Sylver’s expanding gift that we rather not talk about, and maybe just one too many coincidences.
I didn't mind the book, it's easy to read, but I had higher expectations. Overall I would say the book is a bit lame. I would have loved more of the (gruesome) details of Sylver and Gold, needed some more depth to their relationship, and in general just a little more excitement it's too flat for my tastes.
3 stars
ARC received from the publisher (Bold Stroke Books) through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
I remember a lot of banter and a case with murders describe in some gruesome detail in Sylver and Gold, The Value of Sylver and Gold is different. Let me start by saying one formatting thing first, the line spacing is massive. My Kindle is set on narrow line spacing but this one... It felt like I could fit another line between the lines. Maybe I should have written some lines myself to make the book a little more exciting. The book isn't bad, the case is pretty interesting, but it feels like either a lot was cut or left half-finished. It's a bit of a shame. What we do get is a lot of repeated lines, lots of talk about Sylver’s expanding gift that we rather not talk about, and maybe just one too many coincidences.
I didn't mind the book, it's easy to read, but I had higher expectations. Overall I would say the book is a bit lame. I would have loved more of the (gruesome) details of Sylver and Gold, needed some more depth to their relationship, and in general just a little more excitement it's too flat for my tastes.
3 stars
ARC received from the publisher (Bold Stroke Books) through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
April 6, 2023
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.
Reid is ex detective with a special gift who now consults for the BPD. Reid and her ex partner now lover detective London are going strong. Reid is seeks out by Deputy Director Russo of the FBI because they been chasing a serial killer who seems to be one step of head of them and they need her gift. Reid is struggling with her gift while she explores more of what she can do and also she dealing with her dead crazy grandmother who is interfering. I enjoy this read I love mystery thrillers especially with females lead with a mix of supernatural and the bonus it’s with LGBTQIAP+ I love banter with the team but it felt weird that FBI ask for help then seem to bail when things take a turn.
Reid is ex detective with a special gift who now consults for the BPD. Reid and her ex partner now lover detective London are going strong. Reid is seeks out by Deputy Director Russo of the FBI because they been chasing a serial killer who seems to be one step of head of them and they need her gift. Reid is struggling with her gift while she explores more of what she can do and also she dealing with her dead crazy grandmother who is interfering. I enjoy this read I love mystery thrillers especially with females lead with a mix of supernatural and the bonus it’s with LGBTQIAP+ I love banter with the team but it felt weird that FBI ask for help then seem to bail when things take a turn.
March 26, 2023
Michelle Larkin’s writing style is my jam. She is funny, comical and also has a great sense of humor. She keeps you on edge without putting the MCs in these heart wrenching scenarios. I polished off this book in a day and a half.
But… There were holes. I assume we are being set up for an entire series here, but I wish more time was spent rounding out the plot. For example, the FBI started out playing a major role, then just stopped. Nope! We’re done here, goodbye. And the conclusion felt the same. I needed it a little more details to help my tiny brain connect the dots.
Still, I loved it. I want more. I’m 100% on board for a third book.
But… There were holes. I assume we are being set up for an entire series here, but I wish more time was spent rounding out the plot. For example, the FBI started out playing a major role, then just stopped. Nope! We’re done here, goodbye. And the conclusion felt the same. I needed it a little more details to help my tiny brain connect the dots.
Still, I loved it. I want more. I’m 100% on board for a third book.
March 24, 2025
4 stars
This was a very decent sequel. Likeable characters, not overly complicated plot, fun.
No reason to complain.
This was a very decent sequel. Likeable characters, not overly complicated plot, fun.
No reason to complain.
October 2, 2023
I really enjoyed the first novel of this series, Sylver and Gold, and I dove eagerly into The Value of Sylver and Gold. If you're unfamiliar with our leading duo, Detective Reid Sylver and Detective London Gold of the Boston Police Department, I strongly urge you to start with their debut narrative.
This sequel sees Reid's unique expertise being sought by the FBI to crack a daunting case involving a serial killer in DC. Unwilling to undertake the task without her formidable team, they collectively plunge into the challenge, bridging the realms of the living and otherwise. There is so much action within this novel, and I was captivated from start to finish.
Without diving deep into spoilers, I'll refrain from further details. Highly recommend a read if you enjoy your crime thrillers with lots of action, passion and witty banter.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for a copy of this novel. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
This sequel sees Reid's unique expertise being sought by the FBI to crack a daunting case involving a serial killer in DC. Unwilling to undertake the task without her formidable team, they collectively plunge into the challenge, bridging the realms of the living and otherwise. There is so much action within this novel, and I was captivated from start to finish.
Without diving deep into spoilers, I'll refrain from further details. Highly recommend a read if you enjoy your crime thrillers with lots of action, passion and witty banter.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for a copy of this novel. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
April 7, 2023
I really enjoyed the 1st book featuring Reid and London, Sylver and Gold. So, I was excited about reading this 2nd book. Unfortunately, while this is still an enjoyable read, I did not like it as much as book 1.
This time, Reid has retired as homicide detective but still works as a consultant for the BPD. She is still using her gift of being able to talk to the dead to help solve murder cases. London and her relationship is also still going strong, They work with a close-knit group of detectives who are all privy to Reid's special abilities.
The FBI came calling for help to catch a serial killer who has victimized a lot of women and proving hard to stop.
Also, London seems to be his type, so he has his sights set on her too.
However, one of the issues I had was the resolution seems too quick and perfunctory. Actually almost every "crisis" encountered is resolved pretty quickly. Granted, Reid's unique gift enables the team to do unusual things, like obtain help from spirits during critical moments. But, here is this supposedly really smart sophisticated killer that the FBI has been having trouble even finding for years and Reid's team is able to ferret out his where and why and how in a matter of days. There is not a real sense of suspense and thrill that one usually gets from this genre of books.
**Thank you to Bold Stroke Books and NetGalley for giving an ARC for an honest review!**
This time, Reid has retired as homicide detective but still works as a consultant for the BPD. She is still using her gift of being able to talk to the dead to help solve murder cases. London and her relationship is also still going strong, They work with a close-knit group of detectives who are all privy to Reid's special abilities.
The FBI came calling for help to catch a serial killer who has victimized a lot of women and proving hard to stop.
Also, London seems to be his type, so he has his sights set on her too.
However, one of the issues I had was the resolution seems too quick and perfunctory. Actually almost every "crisis" encountered is resolved pretty quickly. Granted, Reid's unique gift enables the team to do unusual things, like obtain help from spirits during critical moments. But, here is this supposedly really smart sophisticated killer that the FBI has been having trouble even finding for years and Reid's team is able to ferret out his where and why and how in a matter of days. There is not a real sense of suspense and thrill that one usually gets from this genre of books.
**Thank you to Bold Stroke Books and NetGalley for giving an ARC for an honest review!**
July 23, 2023
3.5
I think this was an entertaining sequel, and i love the group. It would be cool to explore the past 20 years of their careers perhaps.
It did feel a tad repetitive in writing at times, and i felt the ending was rather rushed, but its so easy to read i'm happy to read the next.
Thank you netgalley :)
I think this was an entertaining sequel, and i love the group. It would be cool to explore the past 20 years of their careers perhaps.
It did feel a tad repetitive in writing at times, and i felt the ending was rather rushed, but its so easy to read i'm happy to read the next.
Thank you netgalley :)
March 31, 2023
The Deputy Director Russo of the FBI comes to the Boston Police Department for help catching a serial killer. She is mostly interested in retired detective Reid Sylver (41) who now consults for the BPD. Reid has a special gift. She can talk to dead people. With information she learns she can send out the team to gather evidence that will hold up in court. On the team is her girlfriend Detective London Gold who is a few years younger. Other members are men who have their backs and are good at profiling and other parts of police work.
I don’t want to spoil the storyline but consulting takes the team to the DC area. This balances jokes and banter with team members with the seriousness of catching a killer. It is part hilarious, part page turning and of course part romance moments. I have read another book by the author but not the first book of this series which I now want to read. A few things got dropped during the investigation. The FBI bails quickly when the investigation takes a turn which doesn’t make sense. And another part of the story is left more open I assume for future books.
This is a surprisingly funny and intense romantic mystery. Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Stokes Books for the advanced review copy and I’m leaving a voluntary review.
I don’t want to spoil the storyline but consulting takes the team to the DC area. This balances jokes and banter with team members with the seriousness of catching a killer. It is part hilarious, part page turning and of course part romance moments. I have read another book by the author but not the first book of this series which I now want to read. A few things got dropped during the investigation. The FBI bails quickly when the investigation takes a turn which doesn’t make sense. And another part of the story is left more open I assume for future books.
This is a surprisingly funny and intense romantic mystery. Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Stokes Books for the advanced review copy and I’m leaving a voluntary review.
March 24, 2023
I’ve read and enjoyed all of Michelle Larkin’s books. This is no different. The banter between the various team members is quite humorous but they can be serious when necessary. The romance between Reid and London continues unabated. There is a bit more exploring of Reid’s evolving abilities and less of her actually connecting to the spirits.
Near the start of book when London (unknowingly) meets the killer I do think she should have been more on the ball and able to avoid what happened. But that of course was necessary for the storyline. The FBI does not come out looking good. Don’t know how accurate that is but they certainly come over as rather incompetent. (I’m sure Aaron Hochner and his BAU team would not have acted like this!)
I did feel the ending was a bit sudden, not unsatisfactory just a bit on the lines of “suddenly with one bound he was free” type of thing.
All in all I did enjoy the book.
Near the start of book when London (unknowingly) meets the killer I do think she should have been more on the ball and able to avoid what happened. But that of course was necessary for the storyline. The FBI does not come out looking good. Don’t know how accurate that is but they certainly come over as rather incompetent. (I’m sure Aaron Hochner and his BAU team would not have acted like this!)
I did feel the ending was a bit sudden, not unsatisfactory just a bit on the lines of “suddenly with one bound he was free” type of thing.
All in all I did enjoy the book.
March 26, 2023
Michelle Larkin’s writing style is my jam. She is funny, comical and also has a great sense of humor. She keeps you on edge without putting the MCs in these heart wrenching scenarios. I polished off this book in a day and a half.
But… There were holes. I assume we are being set up for an entire series here, but I wish more time was spent rounding out the plot. For example, the FBI started out playing a major role, then just stopped. Nope! We’re done here, goodbye. And the conclusion felt the same. I needed it a little more details to help my tiny brain connect the dots.
Still, I loved it. I want more. I’m 100% on board for a third book.
But… There were holes. I assume we are being set up for an entire series here, but I wish more time was spent rounding out the plot. For example, the FBI started out playing a major role, then just stopped. Nope! We’re done here, goodbye. And the conclusion felt the same. I needed it a little more details to help my tiny brain connect the dots.
Still, I loved it. I want more. I’m 100% on board for a third book.
March 26, 2023
This is the second book featuring Sylver and Gold, two detectives that work together and are dating.
This is an action packed story where the FBI have now asked for Sylvers help with a serial killer. The killer has recently abducted a member of the FBI’s family. There is no time to spare.
Sylver has a unique ability to communicate with the dead but in this case the victims aren’t coming to help her.
Now her team is on the hunt but things quickly take a dire turn when the killer targets a member of her team.
This is a really great story that kept me reading and I found Sylver’s abilities very interesting.
Don’t miss this one.
This is an action packed story where the FBI have now asked for Sylvers help with a serial killer. The killer has recently abducted a member of the FBI’s family. There is no time to spare.
Sylver has a unique ability to communicate with the dead but in this case the victims aren’t coming to help her.
Now her team is on the hunt but things quickly take a dire turn when the killer targets a member of her team.
This is a really great story that kept me reading and I found Sylver’s abilities very interesting.
Don’t miss this one.
January 24, 2024
3.5
i have some conflicting thoughts about this one and its events and i don’t quite know how to feel
i have some conflicting thoughts about this one and its events and i don’t quite know how to feel
February 1, 2024
I love it! One of my favorite for sure.
April 10, 2023
The good
+ Their found family
+ The complete separation between their work lives and private lives
+ How comfortable Reid and London were around each other
+
The neutral
o I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. My review remains honest and unbiased
o When they went to the bad guy's lair, they . Seemed like a rather dangerous move to me
o The first book in the series was a contemporary thriller with some paranormal elements. This one was much more focused on the paranormal
The bad
- Like the first book, this book had no content warnings. This book should at least have had warnings for: torture (physical and mental), rape, necrophilia, past physical abuse, past mental abuse
- Reid's team made this profile for the killer that they then accepted as the absolute truth. But their profile turned out to be wrong on several accounts (especially the micropenis part. Was that really necessary? The whole reason he associated love and pain was and not because he supposedly had a small penis or whatever)
- Reid's grandmother . And that was fine. What wasn't fine, was that there was no apology whatsoever for was really fucking crappy and unnecessary too. Reid's grandmother did that for purely selfish reasons. It was up to Reid to decide if and when she wanted to talk to her, not the other way round
- London tried to manipulate Reid because Reid was hesitant to talk to the grandmother who had abused and tortured her for almost her entire childhood. Reid didn't deserve to be manipulated like that for something as traumatic and personal as this
- The whole situation with Mason made me really dislike Reid. There was no reason for her to be jealous because London never lied to her, London had told her she was a lesbian and not interested in men, and London told her she wasn't attracted to Mason. Add to that the hypocricy of Reid being angry at London for 'lying through omission' while Reid herself refused to talk about , and the situation just made no sense. They said they both absolutely trusted the other, so this whole situation was completely out of character. Also, London never told Reid she hadn't told her about Mason because . Reid being on the lookout for 'palpable chemistry between them' was a blatant insult to London and her integrity
- The FBI totally left them to fend for themselves, and I don't understand why.
I enjoyed the first book, but this one had too many elements that didn't work for me to really enjoy it. It was too hard to suspend disbelief sometimes, and characters made some very weird decisions. I think the first book worked better on its own. Unfortunately, I won't be reading any future releases in this series.
+ Their found family
+ The complete separation between their work lives and private lives
+ How comfortable Reid and London were around each other
+
The neutral
o I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. My review remains honest and unbiased
o When they went to the bad guy's lair, they . Seemed like a rather dangerous move to me
o The first book in the series was a contemporary thriller with some paranormal elements. This one was much more focused on the paranormal
The bad
- Like the first book, this book had no content warnings. This book should at least have had warnings for: torture (physical and mental), rape, necrophilia, past physical abuse, past mental abuse
- Reid's team made this profile for the killer that they then accepted as the absolute truth. But their profile turned out to be wrong on several accounts (especially the micropenis part. Was that really necessary? The whole reason he associated love and pain was and not because he supposedly had a small penis or whatever)
- Reid's grandmother . And that was fine. What wasn't fine, was that there was no apology whatsoever for was really fucking crappy and unnecessary too. Reid's grandmother did that for purely selfish reasons. It was up to Reid to decide if and when she wanted to talk to her, not the other way round
- London tried to manipulate Reid because Reid was hesitant to talk to the grandmother who had abused and tortured her for almost her entire childhood. Reid didn't deserve to be manipulated like that for something as traumatic and personal as this
- The whole situation with Mason made me really dislike Reid. There was no reason for her to be jealous because London never lied to her, London had told her she was a lesbian and not interested in men, and London told her she wasn't attracted to Mason. Add to that the hypocricy of Reid being angry at London for 'lying through omission' while Reid herself refused to talk about , and the situation just made no sense. They said they both absolutely trusted the other, so this whole situation was completely out of character. Also, London never told Reid she hadn't told her about Mason because . Reid being on the lookout for 'palpable chemistry between them' was a blatant insult to London and her integrity
- The FBI totally left them to fend for themselves, and I don't understand why.
I enjoyed the first book, but this one had too many elements that didn't work for me to really enjoy it. It was too hard to suspend disbelief sometimes, and characters made some very weird decisions. I think the first book worked better on its own. Unfortunately, I won't be reading any future releases in this series.
August 7, 2025
I wish that I didn't read this. I rated the first book as a low 4, then I read this book and I questioned everything that happened in the first book.
Since this sequel was published 3 years after the first one, I tolerate plotlines from the first book being repeated - once. But then things were being repeated again and again, even things that happened just a few pages before in this book. It was exhausting and I ended up skimming a lot.
Sylver and Gold in this book made me question their chemistry and relationship. At some point, probably halfway through, I was so done with this book but kept hanging on hoping it would turn out to be better. Spoiler alerts: it didn't and now there's a bad aftertaste in my mouth. Do they even respect each other's boundaries??? Gold pushed Sylver to face her trauma using their intimacy as blackmail. Sylver didn't trust Gold and interrogated her about her past relationship - to be fair, she was justified for that since Gold was lying by omission
Then the Good Guys team, as they dubbed themselves in the first book, is a joke. I get that they get things done - only because they're the good guys in this book, but they're so unserious. They either need therapy or to retire, 'cuz it just seems so wrong for these jesters to be police. I wanted to throw my kindle in their face and yell at them to be serious and focus on the task at hand.
The crime plot was just a big mess.
Overall, a big disappointment. 2.5 and ngl, I hate this reading experience.
Since this sequel was published 3 years after the first one, I tolerate plotlines from the first book being repeated - once. But then things were being repeated again and again, even things that happened just a few pages before in this book. It was exhausting and I ended up skimming a lot.
Sylver and Gold in this book made me question their chemistry and relationship. At some point, probably halfway through, I was so done with this book but kept hanging on hoping it would turn out to be better. Spoiler alerts: it didn't and now there's a bad aftertaste in my mouth. Do they even respect each other's boundaries??? Gold pushed Sylver to face her trauma using their intimacy as blackmail. Sylver didn't trust Gold and interrogated her about her past relationship - to be fair, she was justified for that since Gold was lying by omission
Then the Good Guys team, as they dubbed themselves in the first book, is a joke. I get that they get things done - only because they're the good guys in this book, but they're so unserious. They either need therapy or to retire, 'cuz it just seems so wrong for these jesters to be police. I wanted to throw my kindle in their face and yell at them to be serious and focus on the task at hand.
The crime plot was just a big mess.
Overall, a big disappointment. 2.5 and ngl, I hate this reading experience.
April 22, 2023
I have been waiting rather impatiently for The Value of Sylver and Gold to land in my e-reader. I fell in love with Reid Sylver, London Gold, and all the secondary characters that make up their police squad family in Sylver and Gold, the first book in the ‘Sylver and Gold’ series by Michelle Larkin. I became quite invested in these people and their story during that first novel. I’m overjoyed to be able to visit with them again as they search for the next evil psychopath that comes their way.
For those of you who have not read the first book, these stories have a touch of the paranormal since Reid Sylver has the ability to talk to the dead. This can come in handy when you are a homicide detective. Reid’s ability attracts the FBI who are desperately searching for an extremely sick serial killer that has already murdered at least eighteen women. Reid, London and the team agree to help, only to have London end up kidnapped by the killer. Now it’s a race to find her before it’s too late.
This second novel of the series is just as exciting as the first and has all the qualities I look for in a tale like this. We have a well written police procedural with a paranormal slant. All of the characters are just as I remember them, believable and loveable in their own quirky ways, and the romance between Reid and London has endured and strengthened. Reid’s character also continues to evolve and grow as she wrestles with her paranormal abilities.
If you enjoy reading police procedurals that are full of excitement, suspense, romance, and with a touch of paranormal, then this novel and the series is exactly what you’re looking for. I suppose you could read this second book as a standalone, but I would urge you to read them both in order. Then you can join me in asking (begging, really) the author for another story in this series.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
For those of you who have not read the first book, these stories have a touch of the paranormal since Reid Sylver has the ability to talk to the dead. This can come in handy when you are a homicide detective. Reid’s ability attracts the FBI who are desperately searching for an extremely sick serial killer that has already murdered at least eighteen women. Reid, London and the team agree to help, only to have London end up kidnapped by the killer. Now it’s a race to find her before it’s too late.
This second novel of the series is just as exciting as the first and has all the qualities I look for in a tale like this. We have a well written police procedural with a paranormal slant. All of the characters are just as I remember them, believable and loveable in their own quirky ways, and the romance between Reid and London has endured and strengthened. Reid’s character also continues to evolve and grow as she wrestles with her paranormal abilities.
If you enjoy reading police procedurals that are full of excitement, suspense, romance, and with a touch of paranormal, then this novel and the series is exactly what you’re looking for. I suppose you could read this second book as a standalone, but I would urge you to read them both in order. Then you can join me in asking (begging, really) the author for another story in this series.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
April 13, 2023
I was so excited to see a sequel to Sylver and Gold. These two are such great characters and their story in the first book was so much fun. Their banter was great and I loved their chemistry together as well as the team they work with.
Some aspects of that appear in this sequel but it didn’t quite hit the same marks as the first for me. I liked the plot, the serial killer aspect was interesting and Russo coming in and taking over worked well, moving the story forward. Their banter started out great as well and the team uniting game me all the feels.
Unfortunately the story kind of veered off track when they left town to fly into Washington DC. I’ve been a fan of police procedurals since I was in high school and the case here was too light on the details to really keep me invested. I liked the expansion of the role of Sylver’s unique abilities and Russo seemed to as well but then Russo seems to just drop off the face of the earth. When that happens a new character is introduced that causes some friction between our two MCs. This is right after a particularly emotional scene and Sylver acts like a petulant teenager and it just feels out of place and overly dramatic after the nice scene they had just before. The character that causes this fiasco is not overly endearing either and I really feel the story would have been better off without the drama he introduces.
In addition to the loose ends left with the Russo storyline it just felt like the plot was trying to do too much in too little time leaving it all feel a bit unfinished to me. I did like seeing this couple and would likely read additional books in the series in hopes that we’d see more of what was in book one. Unfortunately this one just fell a bit short of that for me.
Some aspects of that appear in this sequel but it didn’t quite hit the same marks as the first for me. I liked the plot, the serial killer aspect was interesting and Russo coming in and taking over worked well, moving the story forward. Their banter started out great as well and the team uniting game me all the feels.
Unfortunately the story kind of veered off track when they left town to fly into Washington DC. I’ve been a fan of police procedurals since I was in high school and the case here was too light on the details to really keep me invested. I liked the expansion of the role of Sylver’s unique abilities and Russo seemed to as well but then Russo seems to just drop off the face of the earth. When that happens a new character is introduced that causes some friction between our two MCs. This is right after a particularly emotional scene and Sylver acts like a petulant teenager and it just feels out of place and overly dramatic after the nice scene they had just before. The character that causes this fiasco is not overly endearing either and I really feel the story would have been better off without the drama he introduces.
In addition to the loose ends left with the Russo storyline it just felt like the plot was trying to do too much in too little time leaving it all feel a bit unfinished to me. I did like seeing this couple and would likely read additional books in the series in hopes that we’d see more of what was in book one. Unfortunately this one just fell a bit short of that for me.
April 8, 2023
This is book 2 of the Sylver and Gold series which should be read in chronological order. Even more, I recommend reading book two immediately after reading book one, Sylver and Gold. This is because the main characters’ relationship arc, along with their professional careers, relationships with colleagues, and family lives pick up where book one left and readers will miss a lot otherwise.
The series is mainly a police procedural but there is a paranormal element that is so well integrated into the story that is believable and organic to the plot. Michelle Larkin has a very characteristic writing style with elements of humour and sarcasm which balances very well the more gruesome aspects of the case.
Both main characters have great chemistry, proof of Larkin’s great dialogue writing. The banter between Sylver and Gold, mixed with affection makes for very entertaining and sometimes endearing scenes. This is a typical opposites-attract romance where both leads complement each other well and are empowered together.
There is a lot of action which will keep you on the edge of your seat, a lot of tension and pressure to solve the case at hand. All the characters, main and secondary, play an important role in getting the killer in jail before he strikes again, this time against one of their own.
If you are looking for a police procedural with a side of romance and don’t mind a bit of a paranormal twist, then this series is for you. I hope the author decides to write book three soon. 4.5 stars.
ARC provided by Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
The series is mainly a police procedural but there is a paranormal element that is so well integrated into the story that is believable and organic to the plot. Michelle Larkin has a very characteristic writing style with elements of humour and sarcasm which balances very well the more gruesome aspects of the case.
Both main characters have great chemistry, proof of Larkin’s great dialogue writing. The banter between Sylver and Gold, mixed with affection makes for very entertaining and sometimes endearing scenes. This is a typical opposites-attract romance where both leads complement each other well and are empowered together.
There is a lot of action which will keep you on the edge of your seat, a lot of tension and pressure to solve the case at hand. All the characters, main and secondary, play an important role in getting the killer in jail before he strikes again, this time against one of their own.
If you are looking for a police procedural with a side of romance and don’t mind a bit of a paranormal twist, then this series is for you. I hope the author decides to write book three soon. 4.5 stars.
ARC provided by Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
May 6, 2023
The sequel to Sylver and Gold. I do have to say I think i might have enjoyed the sequel more than the first book. This is definitely in part due to the emotional development that takes place more in this book than it did in the first book. Nevertheless, The Value of Sylver and Gold keeps the standard of the first book.
This book was written very well, the characters were enjoyable and fun. You could read more about Reid’s emotional dependency and love for London much more in this book. I particularly liked the ending a lot. They’re a cute couple who’s chemistry really does shine when you read their scenes.
I really do hope that there is a sequel to this book and we can continue to read more adventures of Sylver and Gold and the rest of the team which i’m assuming also includes Mason now. I want to see the married life of Reid and London. I think it will be really cute.
The main antagonist is a real son of a bitch. It was well chosen in terms of the irredeemable qualities present in the killer. So much so that his own mother did not want to visit him from the afterlife because there is no second chance for him and rightfully so.
The book is intense in moment it has to which makes it much more interesting and enjoyable when there are moments of fun. I really liked the banter of the team and I really do hope there will be a 3rd book. ❤️❤️❤️
This book was written very well, the characters were enjoyable and fun. You could read more about Reid’s emotional dependency and love for London much more in this book. I particularly liked the ending a lot. They’re a cute couple who’s chemistry really does shine when you read their scenes.
I really do hope that there is a sequel to this book and we can continue to read more adventures of Sylver and Gold and the rest of the team which i’m assuming also includes Mason now. I want to see the married life of Reid and London. I think it will be really cute.
The main antagonist is a real son of a bitch. It was well chosen in terms of the irredeemable qualities present in the killer. So much so that his own mother did not want to visit him from the afterlife because there is no second chance for him and rightfully so.
The book is intense in moment it has to which makes it much more interesting and enjoyable when there are moments of fun. I really liked the banter of the team and I really do hope there will be a 3rd book. ❤️❤️❤️
April 7, 2023
If you haven’t read the first book in this series, you should read it before picking this up. You could read this without but you’ll enjoy it more with awareness of London and Reid and their backstory.
I was reading this second book in the series, when it dawned on me why I like the writing and characterisation. We have to believe that Reid talks to dead people… and they talk back. Suspending our disbelief is easier because Reid questions it herself. She doesn’t question her ability but the value and purpose of her ability. She also doubts her place on her team. Her uncertainty overrides ours and I found myself lost in the storytelling.
This book has Reid working as a consultant to her local police where London is a detective. They are approached by an FBI Agent seeking a particularly nasty serial killer. No spoilers here but the case is complex and Reid struggles with her ‘gift’ and both she and her love are in great danger.
Ms Larkin is an excellent writer and she’s getting stronger with every book.
I was given a copy of this book by Netgalley
I was reading this second book in the series, when it dawned on me why I like the writing and characterisation. We have to believe that Reid talks to dead people… and they talk back. Suspending our disbelief is easier because Reid questions it herself. She doesn’t question her ability but the value and purpose of her ability. She also doubts her place on her team. Her uncertainty overrides ours and I found myself lost in the storytelling.
This book has Reid working as a consultant to her local police where London is a detective. They are approached by an FBI Agent seeking a particularly nasty serial killer. No spoilers here but the case is complex and Reid struggles with her ‘gift’ and both she and her love are in great danger.
Ms Larkin is an excellent writer and she’s getting stronger with every book.
I was given a copy of this book by Netgalley
April 7, 2023
Even with a horrifying serial killer wreaking havoc, I laughed pretty hard through most of this book. The witty banter between the MC and her team, a team that serves as her family while serving the thin blue line, is unparalleled. I had tears in my eyes during a conversation overheard by said team right before the lair invasion. It is the perfect amount of fresh, scary, revolting, upsetting, humorous, loving, steamy, heartbreaking, and a slew of other terms that are complete juxtapositions when found in a sentence together.
The author has some magic in them. An ability to weave a tremendous story from imagination and really reach the reader on so many levels. Your senses will be tickled in this book- not always in the best of ways, but wow, is this a great read. I hope there are many more adventures with Sylver and Gold... especially with the possibility of a new member in their motley crew.
The author has some magic in them. An ability to weave a tremendous story from imagination and really reach the reader on so many levels. Your senses will be tickled in this book- not always in the best of ways, but wow, is this a great read. I hope there are many more adventures with Sylver and Gold... especially with the possibility of a new member in their motley crew.
April 15, 2023
Really good continuation of this series. The relationship between the main characters just seems to get better and better, and I liked that we got to know more about Sylvers team in this book. Sylvers head voice throughout this book was equal parts hilarious and scary at times especially when she had conversations with the ghosts that appeared to her, and Golds humor was pretty funny as well, but you could tell that she was a bit more career driven and motivated to prove herself at every turn, so tended to jump in to a situation with both feet before thinking about the consequences whereas Sylver was more cautious in how she went about trying to catch a serial killer especially when said killer targeted Gold. I really liked this addition to the paranormal series that this author has written and I would definitely recommend this book to my friends and family and look forward to what's next from this author and series.
May 26, 2023
I enjoyed the first book, Sylver and Gold and this one was just as entertaining. Retired Detective Reid Sylver and Detective London Gold not only work together but are now in a romantic relationship. It was interesting to observe how they chose to balance work and home life. Reid has skills that make her a valuable person when solving cases. London is very intuitive and although younger than Reid she holds her own very well. This police procedural has an paranormal perspective that is extremely intriguing. Reid along with her team are pulled in by the FBI to capture a very smart serial killer that has out smarted the FBI for almost three years. As the story unfolded I turned page to page with anticipation because the action was nonstop as the search for the serial killer became personal. Book three would be awesome!
ARC provided by Bold Strokes Books, Inc. via NetGalley
ARC provided by Bold Strokes Books, Inc. via NetGalley
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