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Romantic Suspense #11
Silent Scream
She was in the wrong place at the wrong time.
An environmental protest turns deadly when a young girl becomes trapped in a burning building. Four students callously leave her to die but have they made the biggest mistake of their lives?
For the ruthless blackmailer watching from the shadows, the students' error is a gift. He'll do whatever it takes to succeed and now he has the perfect candidates to do his dirty work.
Firefighter David Hunter knows the devastation that fires can bring, but even he is shocked to find a body inside the blazing building he is trying to save. David vows to help homicide detective Olivia Sutherland find those responsible, but they are about to find that this blackmailer's plan goes far beyond anything they could have imagined...
An environmental protest turns deadly when a young girl becomes trapped in a burning building. Four students callously leave her to die but have they made the biggest mistake of their lives?
For the ruthless blackmailer watching from the shadows, the students' error is a gift. He'll do whatever it takes to succeed and now he has the perfect candidates to do his dirty work.
Firefighter David Hunter knows the devastation that fires can bring, but even he is shocked to find a body inside the blazing building he is trying to save. David vows to help homicide detective Olivia Sutherland find those responsible, but they are about to find that this blackmailer's plan goes far beyond anything they could have imagined...
551 pages, Paperback
First published June 1, 2010
399 people are currently reading
3562 people want to read
About the author
Karen Rose
61 books5,444 followersOFFICIAL WEBSITE:
www.karenrosebooks.com
Internationally bestselling, RITA-award winning, author Karen Rose was born and raised in the Maryland suburbs of Washington, DC. She met her husband, Martin, on a blind date when they were seventeen and after they both graduated from the University of Maryland, (Karen with a degree in Chemical Engineering) they moved to Cincinnati, Ohio. Karen worked as an engineer for a large consumer goods company, earning two patents, but as Karen says, “scenes were roiling in my head and I couldn't concentrate on my job so I started writing them down. I started out writing for fun, and soon found I was hooked.”
Her debut suspense novel, DON'T TELL, was released in July, 2003. Since then, she has published fifteen more novels and two novellas. Her seventeenth novel, ALONE IN THE DARK, will be released in 2016.
Karen's books have appeared on the bestseller lists of the New York Times, USA Today, London's Sunday Times, and Germany's der Spiegel (#1), and the Irish Times, as well as lists in South Africa (#1) and Australia!
Her novels, I'M WATCHING YOU and SILENT SCREAM, received the Romance Writers of America's RITA award for Best Romantic Suspense for 2005 and 2011. Five of her other books have been RITA finalists. To date, her books have been translated into twenty-four languages.
A former high school teacher of chemistry and physics, Karen lives in Florida with her husband of more than twenty years, her two daughters, two dogs, and a cat.
www.karenrosebooks.com
Internationally bestselling, RITA-award winning, author Karen Rose was born and raised in the Maryland suburbs of Washington, DC. She met her husband, Martin, on a blind date when they were seventeen and after they both graduated from the University of Maryland, (Karen with a degree in Chemical Engineering) they moved to Cincinnati, Ohio. Karen worked as an engineer for a large consumer goods company, earning two patents, but as Karen says, “scenes were roiling in my head and I couldn't concentrate on my job so I started writing them down. I started out writing for fun, and soon found I was hooked.”
Her debut suspense novel, DON'T TELL, was released in July, 2003. Since then, she has published fifteen more novels and two novellas. Her seventeenth novel, ALONE IN THE DARK, will be released in 2016.
Karen's books have appeared on the bestseller lists of the New York Times, USA Today, London's Sunday Times, and Germany's der Spiegel (#1), and the Irish Times, as well as lists in South Africa (#1) and Australia!
Her novels, I'M WATCHING YOU and SILENT SCREAM, received the Romance Writers of America's RITA award for Best Romantic Suspense for 2005 and 2011. Five of her other books have been RITA finalists. To date, her books have been translated into twenty-four languages.
A former high school teacher of chemistry and physics, Karen lives in Florida with her husband of more than twenty years, her two daughters, two dogs, and a cat.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 373 reviews
December 13, 2016
Olivia Sutherland and David Hunter have a history that was alluded to in the last book. He's now been in Minneapolis for seven months and his first interaction with her since his move is at an arson crime scene. David also discovered and tried to rescue a young girl who died in the fire. Olivia is on the investigation team and now finds herself having to work with him after over two years since their infamous first meeting. They must resolve what happened as they attempt to bring down a diabolical killer in their midst.
This was a tough, gnarly case that we get to see all but one of the answers from the onset. That made it pretty chilling as your heart races when the team gets closer to solving the mystery. The one element we have to solve is the identity of the blackmailer and that hooked me even more. Typical of this author's stories, no character is sacred so I read with real fear and trepidation. Olivia and David's developing relationship was beautiful, romantic and deftly written. His revelations were stunning.
I love this series and particularly liked this story, even though it was a bit long. I enjoyed how she connected it to several earlier books without divulging the identities of previous villains (for those of you who choose to read out of order....don't!). For me, she still reigns as the queen of the genre and the twists at the end? Didn't see them coming. That's how I like it.
This was a tough, gnarly case that we get to see all but one of the answers from the onset. That made it pretty chilling as your heart races when the team gets closer to solving the mystery. The one element we have to solve is the identity of the blackmailer and that hooked me even more. Typical of this author's stories, no character is sacred so I read with real fear and trepidation. Olivia and David's developing relationship was beautiful, romantic and deftly written. His revelations were stunning.
I love this series and particularly liked this story, even though it was a bit long. I enjoyed how she connected it to several earlier books without divulging the identities of previous villains (for those of you who choose to read out of order....don't!). For me, she still reigns as the queen of the genre and the twists at the end? Didn't see them coming. That's how I like it.
September 7, 2022
I took a while to get into this one then I was totally gripped and could not put it down!
Four stars.
Four stars.
September 19, 2010
Another awesome, intricately plotted book by Karen Rose. I always marvel at the ideas that KR comes up with--her villains are so dastardly yet clever! Many times while reading the book I said to myself "Ahhhh, that's so evil yet clever! You just have to admire how her mind works! This one is a little unlike her other books, maybe not as gruesome, no real tortures going on here, although there is some violence. It's all about blackmail, extortion, that kind of thing, so if you're a bit squeemish you need not be with this book. And there's a decent romance going on here too. Although still not as much time spent on it as I would've liked, but understandable since the whole timeline of the story takes place in less than one week.
This is Minneapolis firefighter David Hunter's book. David (36) was first introduced (I think) way back in Roses's first book Don't Tell, and has reappeared time and again throughout her loosely connected books. Good-guy David has always had a one-sided 'thing' for one of KR's characters from another book, but after an incredible one-night stand (fueled by too much champagne) at friend Mia Mitchell's (Count to Ten) wedding in Chicago where he made a deep emotional and physical connection with Minneapolis police detective Olivia Sutherland (Mia's sister), he decided it was time to move on with his life. He packs his bags and leaves Chicago behind, ready to make a life for himself in the city where Olivia (31) works. But it's almost 2 1/2 years since that night that he and Olivia spent together, and he hasn't contacted her. He knows he did something wrong that night (since Olivia left him alone in bed afterward), but he can't remember what. He wants to see her again, but something is holding him back, even though he's interested enough to keep tabs on her and worry about her. When a case of arson brings both Olivia and David face to face again, they both realize that the feelings are still there. These two need to talk, to see if they can move forward from that night where something definitely did happen, and get past it. Soon both Olivia and David get involved in a case of multiple arsons, murders, and blackmail, that put their lives, and the lives of their loved ones in jeopardy. Will Olivia and David be able to stop a madman before it's too late?
I loved David. I've always loved his character. He's such a nice guy, always giving of himself to help others, and the fact that he's a sexy, heroic, tall-dark-and-handsome firefighter doesn't hurt either. But David has a secret from 18 years ago that's eating him up inside. He wasn't always this 'Mr. Perfect' guy--he's doing penance for something he failed to do when he was a young, selfish teenager. He's really haunted by this, and he's dedicated his life to being a better person. Which he is. But he can't seem to let himself off the hook. Until Olivia (who has problems of her own) comes into his life, and he opens up to her (which I loved reading). These two were just great together, and I was rooting hard for them to make it. Luckily Olivia decided to cut David a break over what happened the night they spent together, and give David a second chance, once she heard what was in his heart. And boy if she didn't, I was going to check and see if she had rocks for brains...
I liked Olivia too. She was beautiful, brainy, gutsy, compassionate, and passionate, and a little lonely. She needed a guy like David in her life. I also liked the two friends she had, former cop turned dog trainer Brie and gym owner Paige. I enjoyed their "girl-talk" and you just know that KR will write a future book with either of them as the heroine. In fact, if you read the epilogue of "Silent Scream" available on Karen Rose's website (http://www.karenrosebooks.com/krose-s...) you'll see who the H/h of her next book will probably be.
This book will appeal to readers who like a good who-done-it. Although the reader knows "who-done-it" we don't know exactly why. But chapter by chapter, Rose lets us into the mind of the master manipulator, and what his ultimate plans are. And we get to see the police detectives put together the clues, piece by piece, and we hold our breaths to see if they can figure it all out before it's too late. There were plenty of surprises along the way (KR is good for that) and a couple of heartbreaking scenes I didn't think would happen (Rose has no problem knocking off a major character if it will wring some emotion out of you), and the last 100 pages of this very long book were un-put-downable. The book did lag just a bit in the middle for me with a little bit of too-many-clues-to-follow, but it bounced back nicely when she refocused on David and Olivia's relationship and the blackmailing schemes of the villain.
Those of you familiar with KR's work will probably love this book. You get a nice mystery where you can play detective along with Olivia and follow the clues, you get a pretty hot romance between two passionate people, and there are plenty of secondary characters interwoven in the plot to care about. Try not to get too confused over all the names tossed out in the beginning of the story (arson investigator, CSU people, medical examiner, firefighters, victims)--it will all come together once the story evolves, and you should have no trouble remembering who's who. For those readers who've never tried a Karen Rose book, I suppose you could start with this one, but if you really want the full experience, you'll go way back to when the character of David was first introduced (Don't Tell), which unfortunately is 10 books ago! But if you do follow that path, you're in for a great ride, because each and every one of those books is a winner. For this one, a very solid 4 1/2 stars
David Hunter...
This is Minneapolis firefighter David Hunter's book. David (36) was first introduced (I think) way back in Roses's first book Don't Tell, and has reappeared time and again throughout her loosely connected books. Good-guy David has always had a one-sided 'thing' for one of KR's characters from another book, but after an incredible one-night stand (fueled by too much champagne) at friend Mia Mitchell's (Count to Ten) wedding in Chicago where he made a deep emotional and physical connection with Minneapolis police detective Olivia Sutherland (Mia's sister), he decided it was time to move on with his life. He packs his bags and leaves Chicago behind, ready to make a life for himself in the city where Olivia (31) works. But it's almost 2 1/2 years since that night that he and Olivia spent together, and he hasn't contacted her. He knows he did something wrong that night (since Olivia left him alone in bed afterward), but he can't remember what. He wants to see her again, but something is holding him back, even though he's interested enough to keep tabs on her and worry about her. When a case of arson brings both Olivia and David face to face again, they both realize that the feelings are still there. These two need to talk, to see if they can move forward from that night where something definitely did happen, and get past it. Soon both Olivia and David get involved in a case of multiple arsons, murders, and blackmail, that put their lives, and the lives of their loved ones in jeopardy. Will Olivia and David be able to stop a madman before it's too late?
I loved David. I've always loved his character. He's such a nice guy, always giving of himself to help others, and the fact that he's a sexy, heroic, tall-dark-and-handsome firefighter doesn't hurt either. But David has a secret from 18 years ago that's eating him up inside. He wasn't always this 'Mr. Perfect' guy--he's doing penance for something he failed to do when he was a young, selfish teenager. He's really haunted by this, and he's dedicated his life to being a better person. Which he is. But he can't seem to let himself off the hook. Until Olivia (who has problems of her own) comes into his life, and he opens up to her (which I loved reading). These two were just great together, and I was rooting hard for them to make it. Luckily Olivia decided to cut David a break over what happened the night they spent together, and give David a second chance, once she heard what was in his heart. And boy if she didn't, I was going to check and see if she had rocks for brains...
I liked Olivia too. She was beautiful, brainy, gutsy, compassionate, and passionate, and a little lonely. She needed a guy like David in her life. I also liked the two friends she had, former cop turned dog trainer Brie and gym owner Paige. I enjoyed their "girl-talk" and you just know that KR will write a future book with either of them as the heroine. In fact, if you read the epilogue of "Silent Scream" available on Karen Rose's website (http://www.karenrosebooks.com/krose-s...) you'll see who the H/h of her next book will probably be.
This book will appeal to readers who like a good who-done-it. Although the reader knows "who-done-it" we don't know exactly why. But chapter by chapter, Rose lets us into the mind of the master manipulator, and what his ultimate plans are. And we get to see the police detectives put together the clues, piece by piece, and we hold our breaths to see if they can figure it all out before it's too late. There were plenty of surprises along the way (KR is good for that) and a couple of heartbreaking scenes I didn't think would happen (Rose has no problem knocking off a major character if it will wring some emotion out of you), and the last 100 pages of this very long book were un-put-downable. The book did lag just a bit in the middle for me with a little bit of too-many-clues-to-follow, but it bounced back nicely when she refocused on David and Olivia's relationship and the blackmailing schemes of the villain.
Those of you familiar with KR's work will probably love this book. You get a nice mystery where you can play detective along with Olivia and follow the clues, you get a pretty hot romance between two passionate people, and there are plenty of secondary characters interwoven in the plot to care about. Try not to get too confused over all the names tossed out in the beginning of the story (arson investigator, CSU people, medical examiner, firefighters, victims)--it will all come together once the story evolves, and you should have no trouble remembering who's who. For those readers who've never tried a Karen Rose book, I suppose you could start with this one, but if you really want the full experience, you'll go way back to when the character of David was first introduced (Don't Tell), which unfortunately is 10 books ago! But if you do follow that path, you're in for a great ride, because each and every one of those books is a winner. For this one, a very solid 4 1/2 stars
David Hunter...
May 26, 2010
5 stars – Romantic Suspense
Arson, blackmail, murder, intrigue...this top-notch, intense, taut, and emotional romantic suspense thrill ride, full of shocking twists and surprises, is Karen Rose at her very finest.
Series fans (me included!) have long awaited to die for hero David Hunter’s story, and Silent Scream finds the sweet, caring, sexy, do-gooder firefighter, aka Mr. Perfect, caught in the middle of a dangerous, twisted arson and multiple homicide investigation that reunites him with detective Olivia Sutherland.
I’m a Karen Rose fan, and although I’ve enjoyed all of her previous works, there have been numerous times that I wished for a little more romance since her books tend to lean much heavier on the suspense. Well, I’m happy to say that the romance element in Silent Scream was verrry satisfying and much stronger than in prior installments. David and Olivia are both emotionally damaged in some way, which is a common theme for KR’s characters, and have issues related to secrets from David’s past and Olivia’s job that have kept them apart. There are some very poignant moments as their relationship develops, and the love scenes are passionate, tender, thick with desperate yearning and longing, and pretty darn steamy, too! David is just flat-out too dreamy and yummy for words, and he and Olivia are by far my favorite couple of the series.
It’s an excellent, riveting romantic suspense read with pulse-pounding action, chilling twists and turns, and touching, hot romance that’s not to be missed by Karen Rose fans. And be sure to read the free Silent Scream epilogue, available on the author’s website, that expands on David’s and Olivia’s HEA and gives updates on other, favorite series characters...it’s delicious icing on the cake! Big 5 stars!
Arson, blackmail, murder, intrigue...this top-notch, intense, taut, and emotional romantic suspense thrill ride, full of shocking twists and surprises, is Karen Rose at her very finest.
Series fans (me included!) have long awaited to die for hero David Hunter’s story, and Silent Scream finds the sweet, caring, sexy, do-gooder firefighter, aka Mr. Perfect, caught in the middle of a dangerous, twisted arson and multiple homicide investigation that reunites him with detective Olivia Sutherland.
I’m a Karen Rose fan, and although I’ve enjoyed all of her previous works, there have been numerous times that I wished for a little more romance since her books tend to lean much heavier on the suspense. Well, I’m happy to say that the romance element in Silent Scream was verrry satisfying and much stronger than in prior installments. David and Olivia are both emotionally damaged in some way, which is a common theme for KR’s characters, and have issues related to secrets from David’s past and Olivia’s job that have kept them apart. There are some very poignant moments as their relationship develops, and the love scenes are passionate, tender, thick with desperate yearning and longing, and pretty darn steamy, too! David is just flat-out too dreamy and yummy for words, and he and Olivia are by far my favorite couple of the series.
It’s an excellent, riveting romantic suspense read with pulse-pounding action, chilling twists and turns, and touching, hot romance that’s not to be missed by Karen Rose fans. And be sure to read the free Silent Scream epilogue, available on the author’s website, that expands on David’s and Olivia’s HEA and gives updates on other, favorite series characters...it’s delicious icing on the cake! Big 5 stars!
March 19, 2022
Karen Rose delivers another page-turning blend of gut-churning suspense and bone-melting romance in SILENT SCREAM, which finally gives her fans the story of David Hunter, who has played a secondary role in several of her previous books. Having moved to Minneapolis in the previous book I CAN SEE YOU, the sexy firefighter's company is called to the scene of what looks to be an environmental arson case, where he is unable to rescue a young woman from the burning building. As luck would have it, the homicide detective assigned the case is Olivia Sutherland, whom David has been admiring from a distance for quite some time. Their relationship is complicated, but their chemistry is undeniable, and as they both edge closer to finding out just who is behind the string of arsons, their budding romance becomes the one thing they can rely on.
As always, Rose tells a story that is intricate but eminently readable. The mystery plot here is diabolical, and all the more chilling because it could happen anywhere. The twists and turns are deftly written and genuinely surprising enough to keep even the most jaded suspense reader guessing.
I really enjoyed the banter between Olivia and David--they are both strong characters, but they hold their own, and it's easy to see why these two would be drawn to each other. They each have some pretty compelling reasons to be shy of relationships, so watching them move past their fears and come together is emotionally satisfying. The multilayered story features some wonderfully funny and poignant moments punctuated by great dialogue. The conversations between David and his various male friends and relatives are especially entertaining. As are Olivia's with her partner, Kane, and her friends Brie and Paige.
Of course, I'm left wondering who the NEXT book will be about. There are some definite possibilities here, but it's never smart to predict where Karen Rose will go next. I just know that I for one want to be along for the ride!
As always, Rose tells a story that is intricate but eminently readable. The mystery plot here is diabolical, and all the more chilling because it could happen anywhere. The twists and turns are deftly written and genuinely surprising enough to keep even the most jaded suspense reader guessing.
I really enjoyed the banter between Olivia and David--they are both strong characters, but they hold their own, and it's easy to see why these two would be drawn to each other. They each have some pretty compelling reasons to be shy of relationships, so watching them move past their fears and come together is emotionally satisfying. The multilayered story features some wonderfully funny and poignant moments punctuated by great dialogue. The conversations between David and his various male friends and relatives are especially entertaining. As are Olivia's with her partner, Kane, and her friends Brie and Paige.
Of course, I'm left wondering who the NEXT book will be about. There are some definite possibilities here, but it's never smart to predict where Karen Rose will go next. I just know that I for one want to be along for the ride!
May 26, 2010
Karen Rose never disappoints me with her books. I stayed up very very late reading this new one the other night because I just could not put it down. I was dying to know how the suspense plot worked out. Plot-wise, this isn't one of my favorite KR storylines, but it was still an absolutely fantastic book.
Series Note:
Karen Rose's books are a "same universe" type of story where the books generally don't officially tie together, but a lot of characters are related or are friends and all that. For this one, I think you could read it as a standalone, but the story would be fuller if you had all the backstory. Lots of references to past events.
Summary:
Over two years ago, firefighter David Hunter and police detective Olivia Sutherland connected while at Mia's sister's wedding. Both were emotionally battered and events led Olivia to run the next morning. David left her go but neither ever stopped thinking about the other. Then David moved to Minneapolis where Olivia lives and since then the two have been playing a cat and mouse game with each other. The murder of a teenage girl finally brings them together.
When David's company responds to a condo fire, everyone is saddened to learn that a teenage girl was squatting there and got trapped. The fire appears to be an eco-terrorist act and a guard was also shot to death. Olivia and her partner are called in to investigate. But nothing about the case quite makes sense. Soon there's another fire and another death, then another. A few other dead bodies turn up that appear connected. Nobody can figure out how all these events tie together. But as Olivia and David struggle to find answers, they're forced to deal with their past together and figure out if there's a future for them.
Review:
This book started off just a smidge slow for me. You're bouncing around between a lot of characters with a lot going on. It kept me from digging into the story right away. But it wasn't a big thing and pretty quickly I was hooked into the story and just wanted to keep reading.
"Silent Scream" is nowhere near as creepy as some of Rose's other books (like the Vartanian sub-trilogy). It's not a particularly dark tale like those, but there's still a pretty decent body count! This story is more a complicated web of deception, revenge, greed and probably some good old-fashioned psychotic tendencies. There are a lot of plot threads, a lot of characters. So it's not a book you want to read casually. You gotta be paying attention.
I loved the way Rose had it all work out though. She weaved all the story threads together seamlessly. When you get to the end and everything has been revealed, it all fits together perfectly and logically. I love that. Such a complicated story, a story that would be easy for the author to get a little lost in and a reader to finish and be confused, but it's all tied up nicely. I finished and was just like, damn, how does she do this? (write such amazing suspense plots).
I admit that I like her psycho serial killer stories a little better, but you can't have a Simon Vartanian in every book. That would get old. Still, this one has a great plot. Once I got hooked into the story, I just wanted to keep reading because I really wanted to know how it all tied together. You know the whos for most of the book, but the whys take to the end to be completely revealed. And I was surprised on a few things. I also loved some of the subtle tie-ins to the previous book "I Can See You."
The book has its sad moments, too. I cried a little over the death of a character. It was so damn sad! I kind of expected the death...characters tend to die in the situation that one was in. But it still had me all teary eyed.
Now, as for the romance...I know a few KR fans who wish she'd up the romance element a bit (like in her first bunch of books). Will this book satisfy you? Maybe yes, maybe no. The suspense plot is still the most dominate aspect of the story. That's the main focus. But I do think the romance was stronger than in some other books. Olivia and David get to spend some significant time together. It takes a while to get to that point, but once they connect, you get some sweet scenes between them. I enjoyed the way Rose wrote their relationship. It fit (and the FREE epilogue available gives readers a nice fluffy bunny HEA extra). It also helps that both characters are very likable. David is a sweetheart and Olivia's a nice, strong woman.
The book also lets you visit with some other series characters: Noah Webster (I Can See You), his troubled former cop partner Jack has a small appearance, and there are mentions/small appearances for Eve, Mia, Ethan, Caroline, Max, Dana...maybe some others. Great to catch up with all those guys!
Just a very satisfying book to read. The plot was excellent, the romance good, the characters great. I honestly had no complaints at all...no loose ends, no mistakes, no unlikable characters, nothing. I was a happy camper when I finished. I will be anxiously awaiting Rose's next book. My guess is that it will be about Brie, Olivia's friend.
Series Note:
Karen Rose's books are a "same universe" type of story where the books generally don't officially tie together, but a lot of characters are related or are friends and all that. For this one, I think you could read it as a standalone, but the story would be fuller if you had all the backstory. Lots of references to past events.
Summary:
Over two years ago, firefighter David Hunter and police detective Olivia Sutherland connected while at Mia's sister's wedding. Both were emotionally battered and events led Olivia to run the next morning. David left her go but neither ever stopped thinking about the other. Then David moved to Minneapolis where Olivia lives and since then the two have been playing a cat and mouse game with each other. The murder of a teenage girl finally brings them together.
When David's company responds to a condo fire, everyone is saddened to learn that a teenage girl was squatting there and got trapped. The fire appears to be an eco-terrorist act and a guard was also shot to death. Olivia and her partner are called in to investigate. But nothing about the case quite makes sense. Soon there's another fire and another death, then another. A few other dead bodies turn up that appear connected. Nobody can figure out how all these events tie together. But as Olivia and David struggle to find answers, they're forced to deal with their past together and figure out if there's a future for them.
Review:
This book started off just a smidge slow for me. You're bouncing around between a lot of characters with a lot going on. It kept me from digging into the story right away. But it wasn't a big thing and pretty quickly I was hooked into the story and just wanted to keep reading.
"Silent Scream" is nowhere near as creepy as some of Rose's other books (like the Vartanian sub-trilogy). It's not a particularly dark tale like those, but there's still a pretty decent body count! This story is more a complicated web of deception, revenge, greed and probably some good old-fashioned psychotic tendencies. There are a lot of plot threads, a lot of characters. So it's not a book you want to read casually. You gotta be paying attention.
I loved the way Rose had it all work out though. She weaved all the story threads together seamlessly. When you get to the end and everything has been revealed, it all fits together perfectly and logically. I love that. Such a complicated story, a story that would be easy for the author to get a little lost in and a reader to finish and be confused, but it's all tied up nicely. I finished and was just like, damn, how does she do this? (write such amazing suspense plots).
I admit that I like her psycho serial killer stories a little better, but you can't have a Simon Vartanian in every book. That would get old. Still, this one has a great plot. Once I got hooked into the story, I just wanted to keep reading because I really wanted to know how it all tied together. You know the whos for most of the book, but the whys take to the end to be completely revealed. And I was surprised on a few things. I also loved some of the subtle tie-ins to the previous book "I Can See You."
The book has its sad moments, too. I cried a little over the death of a character. It was so damn sad! I kind of expected the death...characters tend to die in the situation that one was in. But it still had me all teary eyed.
Now, as for the romance...I know a few KR fans who wish she'd up the romance element a bit (like in her first bunch of books). Will this book satisfy you? Maybe yes, maybe no. The suspense plot is still the most dominate aspect of the story. That's the main focus. But I do think the romance was stronger than in some other books. Olivia and David get to spend some significant time together. It takes a while to get to that point, but once they connect, you get some sweet scenes between them. I enjoyed the way Rose wrote their relationship. It fit (and the FREE epilogue available gives readers a nice fluffy bunny HEA extra). It also helps that both characters are very likable. David is a sweetheart and Olivia's a nice, strong woman.
The book also lets you visit with some other series characters: Noah Webster (I Can See You), his troubled former cop partner Jack has a small appearance, and there are mentions/small appearances for Eve, Mia, Ethan, Caroline, Max, Dana...maybe some others. Great to catch up with all those guys!
Just a very satisfying book to read. The plot was excellent, the romance good, the characters great. I honestly had no complaints at all...no loose ends, no mistakes, no unlikable characters, nothing. I was a happy camper when I finished. I will be anxiously awaiting Rose's next book. My guess is that it will be about Brie, Olivia's friend.
March 6, 2011
I had seen Karen Rose mentioned recently in the same sentence as Tess Gerritsen and Karin Slaughter, both authors I enjoy, so thought I'd give a different author a try. I didn't realise when I started reading it that the main characters had appeared in her previous books.
The story begins with an arson attack on a new condo, resulting in two deaths. The cuplrits are being watched and become the target of a blackmailer who uses them to achieve his own ends. Olivia Sutherland is a homicide cop called to the scene to investigate, and David Hunter is a fireman who attends the fire and almost loses his own life while fighting the fire. Their paths have crossed in the past and the book follows the investigation but also details the relationship between these two characters.
I found the start of the book had me turning the pages quickly as I was drawn in, but there were a lot of characters introduced and I struggled at times keeping track of who was who and how they were all related. As some of the characters are deaf and the police use a sign language interpreter I was pleased, as the parent of a deaf child, to see that the author appeared to have done her research well. The start was very promising.
Early on I was keen to see how the relationship between Olivia and David would pan out, but as I read on he seemed too good to be true and with the sex scenes thrown in it became a bit Mills and Boon. I did find the main characters quite likeable though. One of the things I liked least about this book was the way the author used conversations between them and family or friends to reveal their backgrounds. These conversations, with family member or friend recounting all the major events in their life, seemed very false and a slightly lazy way of laying out what events in their past were affecting the present.
The last third of the book contained a lot of action as the homicide squad closed in on their suspects, but I found that my attention wasn't sustained all the way through to the end, trying to maintain the book at such a pitch for so long just didn't work for me. I felt a bit like I was limping over the finish line when I got to the end.
I quite liked Silent Scream, there were a few twists and turns, but there are other authors in this genre I would select ahead of Karen Rose based on this book.
The story begins with an arson attack on a new condo, resulting in two deaths. The cuplrits are being watched and become the target of a blackmailer who uses them to achieve his own ends. Olivia Sutherland is a homicide cop called to the scene to investigate, and David Hunter is a fireman who attends the fire and almost loses his own life while fighting the fire. Their paths have crossed in the past and the book follows the investigation but also details the relationship between these two characters.
I found the start of the book had me turning the pages quickly as I was drawn in, but there were a lot of characters introduced and I struggled at times keeping track of who was who and how they were all related. As some of the characters are deaf and the police use a sign language interpreter I was pleased, as the parent of a deaf child, to see that the author appeared to have done her research well. The start was very promising.
Early on I was keen to see how the relationship between Olivia and David would pan out, but as I read on he seemed too good to be true and with the sex scenes thrown in it became a bit Mills and Boon. I did find the main characters quite likeable though. One of the things I liked least about this book was the way the author used conversations between them and family or friends to reveal their backgrounds. These conversations, with family member or friend recounting all the major events in their life, seemed very false and a slightly lazy way of laying out what events in their past were affecting the present.
The last third of the book contained a lot of action as the homicide squad closed in on their suspects, but I found that my attention wasn't sustained all the way through to the end, trying to maintain the book at such a pitch for so long just didn't work for me. I felt a bit like I was limping over the finish line when I got to the end.
I quite liked Silent Scream, there were a few twists and turns, but there are other authors in this genre I would select ahead of Karen Rose based on this book.
September 24, 2021
Silent Scream
3.5 Stars
Two years ago, detective Olivia Sutherland and firefighter David Hunter shared an ignominious night together. Now Olivia and David must work together to solve a series of arson attacks that may or may not be connected to an extremist environmental group. Can the two resolve their personal issues to catch a malicious murderer?
Olivia and David have strong chemistry, but the lack of communication concerning their one night stand makes them seem childish and immature. This improves once they get over themselves long enough to have a conversation and the romance is satisfying overall.
The investigation into the fires is compelling and there are some intense situations for the characters. Unfortunately, the identity of the culprit/s is revealed early on and all that remains is determining the motivation. The eventual explanation comes somewhat out of the blue as there are few clues along the way and it all seems a little too contrived.
Nevertheless, Silent Scream is a fast paced and entertaining read with some bittersweet moments. The next book changes location and characters, so it will be interesting to see how it links into the ongoing series.
3.5 Stars
Two years ago, detective Olivia Sutherland and firefighter David Hunter shared an ignominious night together. Now Olivia and David must work together to solve a series of arson attacks that may or may not be connected to an extremist environmental group. Can the two resolve their personal issues to catch a malicious murderer?
Olivia and David have strong chemistry, but the lack of communication concerning their one night stand makes them seem childish and immature. This improves once they get over themselves long enough to have a conversation and the romance is satisfying overall.
The investigation into the fires is compelling and there are some intense situations for the characters. Unfortunately, the identity of the culprit/s is revealed early on and all that remains is determining the motivation. The eventual explanation comes somewhat out of the blue as there are few clues along the way and it all seems a little too contrived.
Nevertheless, Silent Scream is a fast paced and entertaining read with some bittersweet moments. The next book changes location and characters, so it will be interesting to see how it links into the ongoing series.
April 27, 2024
3.5⭐️= Quite Good
Hardback.
I didn’t think I would enjoy this at all but it wasn’t too bad. It fluctuated between a three and a four star read. It was a little gruesome in parts but that didn’t bother me. I’m not usually a huge romance lover but this was just enough to add to the plot without being a distraction.
There were a few too many characters for my liking and I had to re-read a few pages. I preferred the first half of the book but became a little bored towards the end.
Hardback.
I didn’t think I would enjoy this at all but it wasn’t too bad. It fluctuated between a three and a four star read. It was a little gruesome in parts but that didn’t bother me. I’m not usually a huge romance lover but this was just enough to add to the plot without being a distraction.
There were a few too many characters for my liking and I had to re-read a few pages. I preferred the first half of the book but became a little bored towards the end.
May 22, 2010
Karen Rose continues to prove why she's one of my favorite authors. She has delivered another heartwarming yet gut wrenching suspenseful novel. This one features David Hunter and Olivia Sutherland. We first met David in KR's book Don't Tell and we first met Olivia in Count to Ten. Both of them have appeared in a couple other of KR's books as well. David has had an unrequited love for Dana Dupinsky (heroine in Nothing To Fear) for years. He and Olivia meet up at Mia's wedding two and a half years ago and shared an unforgettable night (unforgettable for many reasons). When mutual friend Eve Wilson (heroine in I Can See You and a supporting character in many other books) asks David to help her with her roof in the previous book, he decides to make a permanent move to Minneapolis (where Olivia lives and works).
Silent Scream takes place approximately 7 months after I Can See You leaves off. David and Olivia are thrown together in an arson investigation after someone burns down a condo complex and an innocent girl gets stuck inside (David was called to the scene as a firefighter and Olivia as homicide once the girl's body was found). More buildings continue to burn (with bodies inside)and the pursuit begins looking for the arsonists/murderers.
Typical Karen Rose, there are lots of twists and turns in the suspense part of the book. Just when you think you figured everything out, she pulls another trick out of her hat. Definitely kept me guessing to the end. Also there is a part in the book where you will feel like you were punched in the stomach, at least I did. I had tears in my eyes over something that happens and it effects a very personal & professional part of Olivia's life.
Of course there is also a nice romance that develops between David & Olivia. They both have had feelings for one another since that "unforgettable night" of Mia's wedding; but both were scared to share their feelings due to things that happened in their respective pasts.
The book could be read as a stand alone, but I highly recommend reading from the first book (Don't Tell). Not only to get a solid perspective on all of the related characters, but also just to enjoy a fantastic read. Karen Rose is just that good!
Karen Rose writes at the end of the book that a free epilogue for David & Olivia will be available on her website. As of the writing of this review, it's not there (but the book is not technically released until 5/25). Can't wait to get an update on their relationship! Hopefully it won't be the last of them, but only time will tell.
Silent Scream takes place approximately 7 months after I Can See You leaves off. David and Olivia are thrown together in an arson investigation after someone burns down a condo complex and an innocent girl gets stuck inside (David was called to the scene as a firefighter and Olivia as homicide once the girl's body was found). More buildings continue to burn (with bodies inside)and the pursuit begins looking for the arsonists/murderers.
Typical Karen Rose, there are lots of twists and turns in the suspense part of the book. Just when you think you figured everything out, she pulls another trick out of her hat. Definitely kept me guessing to the end. Also there is a part in the book where you will feel like you were punched in the stomach, at least I did. I had tears in my eyes over something that happens and it effects a very personal & professional part of Olivia's life.
Of course there is also a nice romance that develops between David & Olivia. They both have had feelings for one another since that "unforgettable night" of Mia's wedding; but both were scared to share their feelings due to things that happened in their respective pasts.
The book could be read as a stand alone, but I highly recommend reading from the first book (Don't Tell). Not only to get a solid perspective on all of the related characters, but also just to enjoy a fantastic read. Karen Rose is just that good!
Karen Rose writes at the end of the book that a free epilogue for David & Olivia will be available on her website. As of the writing of this review, it's not there (but the book is not technically released until 5/25). Can't wait to get an update on their relationship! Hopefully it won't be the last of them, but only time will tell.
June 13, 2010
A daunting 570 pages, and I'm glad I just finished I Can See You (book #10) and went right into Silent Scream (book #11) because they tie directly together. Other characters from earlier books are mentioned or pop in and out as well, but a person MUST read "I Can See You" FIRST as an absolute minimum.
Having said that, I think one of the things that turned me off Silent Scream was having just finished I Can See You. In the latter, the bad guy was horrible and his tactics had me turning the pages, sitting on the edge of my seat, and reading into the wee hours. Then came Silent Scream and the bad guy started off as just an annoying, nosey, weasel and I wasn't in the least bit interested in reading about his blackmailing schemes. The 4 young adults got on my nerves. I was not able to sympathize with them because they were so darn stupid. Several times, I ALMOST stopped reading this one. So glad I continued because it got much better.
The bad guy escalated and the whole story came together in the intricately woven way I've come to expect from this author.
There was more romance in Silent Scream and it may have brought the story down for me. The romance started interfering with the flow of the case. I enjoyed reading about Olivia and David, but I had a hard time feeling for their character development(s). They both had hang-ups and needed to deal and get on with life.
Finally, I think about 200 pages could have been shaved off this book with the recapping and the mundane details. It would have firmed up the story.
The death of an important character surprised me and left me sad as I finished the book. Not a book I would ever re-read, but I'm glad I read it--once.
Having said that, I think one of the things that turned me off Silent Scream was having just finished I Can See You. In the latter, the bad guy was horrible and his tactics had me turning the pages, sitting on the edge of my seat, and reading into the wee hours. Then came Silent Scream and the bad guy started off as just an annoying, nosey, weasel and I wasn't in the least bit interested in reading about his blackmailing schemes. The 4 young adults got on my nerves. I was not able to sympathize with them because they were so darn stupid. Several times, I ALMOST stopped reading this one. So glad I continued because it got much better.
The bad guy escalated and the whole story came together in the intricately woven way I've come to expect from this author.
There was more romance in Silent Scream and it may have brought the story down for me. The romance started interfering with the flow of the case. I enjoyed reading about Olivia and David, but I had a hard time feeling for their character development(s). They both had hang-ups and needed to deal and get on with life.
Finally, I think about 200 pages could have been shaved off this book with the recapping and the mundane details. It would have firmed up the story.
The death of an important character surprised me and left me sad as I finished the book. Not a book I would ever re-read, but I'm glad I read it--once.
September 28, 2016
Another good read in this series. I enjoy the way Rose weaves a graphic, twisted story often ending with a shocker. While Silent Scream was intriguing, it lacked some of the intensity of previous books for me. I didn't feel quite the on-the-edge of your seat intensity, the can't-put-it down intensity, the "Oh No" intensity. I also didn't feel the emotional chemistry between David & Oliva that I wanted - that chemistry that makes me pull and cheer for characters. What I did love about this book was the intriguing plot line and seeing characters from previous books. It really adds a lot to a story when characters I know from previous stories, such as Tom, are pulled into the action. Silent Scream is a good addition to the series and another Must Read for fans of the series.
December 29, 2016
Review to come...
Notes:
Karen Rose is one of my favorite writers and I'm usually giving her books 4 and 5 stars, but this one didn't work for me as well as other books by her.
I had issues with the length of time between the main MCs "one night stand" and their finally getting together with both parties still carrying issues around it but not trying to make contact or get over it. This led to some dissatisfaction with the main characters.
On a personal basis, I was what I will refer to as out of sync with the investigation. I would be "why aren't they doing this" and then a few pages/chapters later it would be referred to.
Notes:
Karen Rose is one of my favorite writers and I'm usually giving her books 4 and 5 stars, but this one didn't work for me as well as other books by her.
I had issues with the length of time between the main MCs "one night stand" and their finally getting together with both parties still carrying issues around it but not trying to make contact or get over it. This led to some dissatisfaction with the main characters.
On a personal basis, I was what I will refer to as out of sync with the investigation. I would be "why aren't they doing this" and then a few pages/chapters later it would be referred to.
March 31, 2015
Narrated by Margarite Gavin
One of the worst books I've read in a long time. The narration was grating. The plot was boring. The writing was poor and in desperate need of a good editor. The "romantic tension" was pathetic although the two protagonists are the only things that kept me reading to the end. Junk.
One of the worst books I've read in a long time. The narration was grating. The plot was boring. The writing was poor and in desperate need of a good editor. The "romantic tension" was pathetic although the two protagonists are the only things that kept me reading to the end. Junk.
July 24, 2010
Ever since I read my 1st Karen Rose book You Can’t Hide in 2006 I was hooked on Rose’s suspenseful storylines, romantic relationships about people I actually cared reading about and amazing storytelling. She quickly became one of my favourite auto-buy authors and I did something I have never before done...I immediately went to Amazon and purchased her entire backlist. She is one of the few authors whose books I will shell out the big bucks for and purchase in hardcover because I can’t wait for the paperback. Rose delivers once again and does not disappoint with her latest release (in paperback..YEAH!).
Firefighter David Hunter and Homicide Detective Olivia Sutherland have both made appearances in Rose’s previous books (David - Don’t Tell and Olivia – Count to Ten), and can I just say how excited I was to discover that David was finally getting his own story (thanks Ms. Rose for that twitter confirmation). I can honestly say you don’t have to read the previous books to get full value from Silent Scream, but all of Rose’s books rock – so you really should read every one!
A suspiciously set fire and the death of a young deaf girl trapped inside a burned out condo under construction bring David and Olivia face to face once again since their unforgettable night two years ago where they may or may not have hooked up at a wedding. One of them can’t really remember what happened and it’s one of the reasons that these two have been tip-toeing around one another for the past seven months, since David packed up his bags and moved to Minneapolis where Olivia works.
David and Olivia have a few misunderstanding (ohhh the words you yell out in the heat of passion can do ALOT of damage even if you don’t remember doing it) to work through and are initially cool and civil towards one another, but you can just sense the powder keg of awareness and sexual chemistry simmering just below the surface. In past Rose books, the suspense and sometimes grisly nature of her storytelling has been in the forefront while the romance takes a back seat, but in Silent Scream, Rose definitely ratcheted up the romance quotient for David and Olivia...and I liked it!
David Hunter may well be Mr. Perfect. I’m pretty sure I developed a severe crush on the hunky firefighter while reading Silent Scream. He’s thoughtful and caring, can cook, risks his life to help people and seriously I just wanted him to rub my neck and stroke my hair. I melted a little inside everytime he did that to Olivia...you lucky, lucky girl!
Arson, murder, mayhem and a master puppeteer, blackmailing villain who pulls all the strings to get others to do his bidding have David and Olivia working overtime and racing to discover his identity before the body count can climb any higher.
I love a great romantic suspense novel and Rose out does herself with Silent Scream. The storytelling is superb. Everything follows in a logical, satisfying order towards a climatic end. I love it when I don’t question the villain’s motives or am shaking my head at some action carried out by the H/H. The story made sense and was all tied up with a nice big bow. There was one point when I actually gasped out loud and cursed Ms. Rose...WTF??? at the fate she delivered to one of the main supporting characters. I guess if you can illicit such reactions from your readers, then you know you’ve told an amazing story.
Silent Scream delivers 570 pages of pure reading enjoyment.
Firefighter David Hunter and Homicide Detective Olivia Sutherland have both made appearances in Rose’s previous books (David - Don’t Tell and Olivia – Count to Ten), and can I just say how excited I was to discover that David was finally getting his own story (thanks Ms. Rose for that twitter confirmation). I can honestly say you don’t have to read the previous books to get full value from Silent Scream, but all of Rose’s books rock – so you really should read every one!
A suspiciously set fire and the death of a young deaf girl trapped inside a burned out condo under construction bring David and Olivia face to face once again since their unforgettable night two years ago where they may or may not have hooked up at a wedding. One of them can’t really remember what happened and it’s one of the reasons that these two have been tip-toeing around one another for the past seven months, since David packed up his bags and moved to Minneapolis where Olivia works.
David and Olivia have a few misunderstanding (ohhh the words you yell out in the heat of passion can do ALOT of damage even if you don’t remember doing it) to work through and are initially cool and civil towards one another, but you can just sense the powder keg of awareness and sexual chemistry simmering just below the surface. In past Rose books, the suspense and sometimes grisly nature of her storytelling has been in the forefront while the romance takes a back seat, but in Silent Scream, Rose definitely ratcheted up the romance quotient for David and Olivia...and I liked it!
David Hunter may well be Mr. Perfect. I’m pretty sure I developed a severe crush on the hunky firefighter while reading Silent Scream. He’s thoughtful and caring, can cook, risks his life to help people and seriously I just wanted him to rub my neck and stroke my hair. I melted a little inside everytime he did that to Olivia...you lucky, lucky girl!
Arson, murder, mayhem and a master puppeteer, blackmailing villain who pulls all the strings to get others to do his bidding have David and Olivia working overtime and racing to discover his identity before the body count can climb any higher.
I love a great romantic suspense novel and Rose out does herself with Silent Scream. The storytelling is superb. Everything follows in a logical, satisfying order towards a climatic end. I love it when I don’t question the villain’s motives or am shaking my head at some action carried out by the H/H. The story made sense and was all tied up with a nice big bow. There was one point when I actually gasped out loud and cursed Ms. Rose...WTF??? at the fate she delivered to one of the main supporting characters. I guess if you can illicit such reactions from your readers, then you know you’ve told an amazing story.
Silent Scream delivers 570 pages of pure reading enjoyment.
June 24, 2010
I bet Goddess K-Rose doesn't sleep well at night. I know I sure wouldn't if I had stories like hers strolling around in my head. This woman obviously researches her subjects super well to get into the minds of her murderers, serial killers, cops &/or alphabets, arsonists and now firemen. And as usual, boy, does she get into their minds!
In the dictionary next to the word "suspense" is a Karen Rose book. She writes like very few others when it comes to suspense/thrillers with a romantic core. She also is not afraid to have her hero be a Beta-type, and did so very sucessfully here with fireman David Hunter. We met David in several previous books; he's the too-handsome man that was always volunteering to fix/help/fund the women's shelters and runaway rescues his friend Dana was involved in. I could never figure out why David was alone, tho; he thought he was in love with Dana but never told her (she eventually married Ethan and lives happily ever after). I wanted him to stay with Olivia when he met her a couple of years ago, but he backed off. Now David and Olivia, who's a detective in Homicide, are living in the same city but neither of them have taken steps to get together, each thinking the other would make the first move. We know how THAT usually goes, don't we?
Olivia was involved in the apprehension and fall-out of the Red Dress serial killer in "I'm Watching You" (probably the best thriller EVER) and she's still a little sickened by death seven months later - kind of a problem if you're a homicide detective. She and David come face-to-face at an arson site that requires them to get over themselves to work the murders that go along with the case. So while they are working hard in Alpha-mode to solve this case and catch the arsonists/killers, they also rather timidly work in Beta-mode to resolve their feelings about each other.
Rose is certainly not timid about showing the vulnerabilities of her characters, and the unveiling of the real David - to his mother, his brother and to Olivia - is painful to read. His family is so wonderful and so loving that I cried for all of us who didn't have it that good, and again for what David held inside over half his life because he was afraid what others would think of him if they knew his failings. "Its just a face", David said many times, something he did not earn. That makes me wonder what is inside those beautiful people who we think have life so much easier than we do. I also cried for Olivia and all of us who live life alone, thinking if we are alone there must be something wrong with us - and so we work hard to hide. I didn't cry for the sociopaths that K-Ro always features as her villians, but I did think of her explanations for how they somehow got that way. And I hurt for the schizophrenic character who just couldn't face the horror of what he'd become involved with so chose to quit taking his meds in order to hide from that guilt. Without his meds, he really was crazy.
Ah, I hate to finish reading a Rose book. I'll have to e-mail her tonite and tell her to write faster.
In the dictionary next to the word "suspense" is a Karen Rose book. She writes like very few others when it comes to suspense/thrillers with a romantic core. She also is not afraid to have her hero be a Beta-type, and did so very sucessfully here with fireman David Hunter. We met David in several previous books; he's the too-handsome man that was always volunteering to fix/help/fund the women's shelters and runaway rescues his friend Dana was involved in. I could never figure out why David was alone, tho; he thought he was in love with Dana but never told her (she eventually married Ethan and lives happily ever after). I wanted him to stay with Olivia when he met her a couple of years ago, but he backed off. Now David and Olivia, who's a detective in Homicide, are living in the same city but neither of them have taken steps to get together, each thinking the other would make the first move. We know how THAT usually goes, don't we?
Olivia was involved in the apprehension and fall-out of the Red Dress serial killer in "I'm Watching You" (probably the best thriller EVER) and she's still a little sickened by death seven months later - kind of a problem if you're a homicide detective. She and David come face-to-face at an arson site that requires them to get over themselves to work the murders that go along with the case. So while they are working hard in Alpha-mode to solve this case and catch the arsonists/killers, they also rather timidly work in Beta-mode to resolve their feelings about each other.
Rose is certainly not timid about showing the vulnerabilities of her characters, and the unveiling of the real David - to his mother, his brother and to Olivia - is painful to read. His family is so wonderful and so loving that I cried for all of us who didn't have it that good, and again for what David held inside over half his life because he was afraid what others would think of him if they knew his failings. "Its just a face", David said many times, something he did not earn. That makes me wonder what is inside those beautiful people who we think have life so much easier than we do. I also cried for Olivia and all of us who live life alone, thinking if we are alone there must be something wrong with us - and so we work hard to hide. I didn't cry for the sociopaths that K-Ro always features as her villians, but I did think of her explanations for how they somehow got that way. And I hurt for the schizophrenic character who just couldn't face the horror of what he'd become involved with so chose to quit taking his meds in order to hide from that guilt. Without his meds, he really was crazy.
Ah, I hate to finish reading a Rose book. I'll have to e-mail her tonite and tell her to write faster.
August 13, 2011
I picked this book up because it won a RITA award and I'm exploring a variety of romance novels. I enjoy a good mystery and suspense, but despite the accolades, I am not enjoying this book that much. I'm about a third of the way through and will push on just a bit further. Surely, it gets batter?
For starters, there's almost too much going on. I'm losing track of suspects and side characters. I also find the hero, David Hunter, a little unbelievable because he's such a saint. He performs all kinds of charity work--even his mom thinks it's a little odd. He reveals that it is because he stumbled across a police scene in which a young girl and her mother were beaten too death by an abusive husband. Perhaps there is more to that back story, but even though such an event would be traumatizing his reaction seems unbelievably extreme.
And then there's the heroine, Olivia. Before this case, she had been the lead cop on a case where the killer threw his victims into a lime pit. She had to pull bodies out and identify him. Understandably, that case traumatized her and still does. She's still so disturbed by the case, however, that I'm having problems her supervisors would continue to let her work. Yes, they ordered her to meet with a therapist but it had no impact. I'm surprised they're letting her work in this emotional state.
And finally, a minor complaint. The story is set in Minneapolis, but apart from the occasional reference to being set in the city and a brief mention of a walleye lake the reader gets no feel for the location. Because I am from the Twin Cities, I keep hoping there will be more of a local feel to the story but so far it could be anywhere.
Update after finishing. Really wish I could have liked this book more - almost stopped reading it but made it to the end. The underlying mystery was interesting (and has me scared to death about using public wireless!!) I just couldn't get into the romance - after all this hemming and hawing about him calling out someone else's name, she decides "okay, I'll sleep with him" I couldn't figure out what triggered the change apart from the fact that he's really hot and she was horny. It seemed to abrupt for me.
It appears I'm the only reviewer who did not like this book. Maybe this sub-genre is just not for me. Perhaps if I want suspense I go for one that's not a romance as well.
For starters, there's almost too much going on. I'm losing track of suspects and side characters. I also find the hero, David Hunter, a little unbelievable because he's such a saint. He performs all kinds of charity work--even his mom thinks it's a little odd. He reveals that it is because he stumbled across a police scene in which a young girl and her mother were beaten too death by an abusive husband. Perhaps there is more to that back story, but even though such an event would be traumatizing his reaction seems unbelievably extreme.
And then there's the heroine, Olivia. Before this case, she had been the lead cop on a case where the killer threw his victims into a lime pit. She had to pull bodies out and identify him. Understandably, that case traumatized her and still does. She's still so disturbed by the case, however, that I'm having problems her supervisors would continue to let her work. Yes, they ordered her to meet with a therapist but it had no impact. I'm surprised they're letting her work in this emotional state.
And finally, a minor complaint. The story is set in Minneapolis, but apart from the occasional reference to being set in the city and a brief mention of a walleye lake the reader gets no feel for the location. Because I am from the Twin Cities, I keep hoping there will be more of a local feel to the story but so far it could be anywhere.
Update after finishing. Really wish I could have liked this book more - almost stopped reading it but made it to the end. The underlying mystery was interesting (and has me scared to death about using public wireless!!) I just couldn't get into the romance - after all this hemming and hawing about him calling out someone else's name, she decides "okay, I'll sleep with him" I couldn't figure out what triggered the change apart from the fact that he's really hot and she was horny. It seemed to abrupt for me.
It appears I'm the only reviewer who did not like this book. Maybe this sub-genre is just not for me. Perhaps if I want suspense I go for one that's not a romance as well.
October 19, 2014
In this book we have a group of teenagers who set fire to a condo they thought was empty. But when they see a teenage girl pounding on an upstairs window, it's too late to save her. They don't know that someone is watching them, recording their every move, until they are being blackmailed.
Detective Olivia Sutherland and her partner Kane are the lead investigators in the case which is a clearly arson. Olivia has to work closely with David Hunter, the firefighter who tried to rescue the girl. Olivia and David have met before, a one night stand that ended when David work up in an empty bed. Another arson shows ties to the first fire. Olivia and David deal with murder, arson, blackmail, and grief as they search for the person behind the fires.
Karen Rose certainly knows how to plot a story. There are so many characters, so many points of view, that it could end up being confusing. But it's not. You have to pay attention to the details. The clues are there. By the time we get to the end of the book all of the loose ends have been neatly tied up. That is my kind of book. My rating: 4.5 Stars.
Detective Olivia Sutherland and her partner Kane are the lead investigators in the case which is a clearly arson. Olivia has to work closely with David Hunter, the firefighter who tried to rescue the girl. Olivia and David have met before, a one night stand that ended when David work up in an empty bed. Another arson shows ties to the first fire. Olivia and David deal with murder, arson, blackmail, and grief as they search for the person behind the fires.
Karen Rose certainly knows how to plot a story. There are so many characters, so many points of view, that it could end up being confusing. But it's not. You have to pay attention to the details. The clues are there. By the time we get to the end of the book all of the loose ends have been neatly tied up. That is my kind of book. My rating: 4.5 Stars.
October 17, 2012
A very intense, complex, and emotional romantic suspense by one of the best in the genre. Firefighter David Hunter meets up with Homicide detective Olivia Sutherland when a condo fire turns up two dead bodies. They met years before but never contacted each other for whatever reasons.
The story focused mainly on the crime and suspense but there was a decent romance developed. I swear Karen Rose writes the best villains. Lots of edge-of-your-seat suspense and a few heart-wrenching scenes. Never a dull moment.
The story focused mainly on the crime and suspense but there was a decent romance developed. I swear Karen Rose writes the best villains. Lots of edge-of-your-seat suspense and a few heart-wrenching scenes. Never a dull moment.
January 31, 2010
Another stellar novel from Rose. I've been waiting years for David's book and I'm happy to report it was worth the wait.
March 12, 2015
I'm still crying over the loss. :'(
How could you, Karen, how could you kill him?
How could you, Karen, how could you kill him?
April 14, 2023
Kwam er niet doorheen.
July 17, 2017
***Spoilers***
I read to relax and immerse myself in a story. Silent Scream was anything but relaxing and not in a good way. If everyone would have just worked together and answered their phones it could have been wrapped up in half the time.
Why make David a firefighter when they have him acting like a police officer? He seemed like more of a detective than Olivia. He wasn't very smart about it either. There were more precautions he could have taken but I guess being stupid was supposed to make it interesting.
Please please please, stop making grown men and women blush! It might be okay ONCE in a really embarrassing situation but multiple times is not okay. It is just weird.
Olivia came across as weak. Her struggles were understandable but her reactions were too much. Every other page she was having a panic attack or trying not to cry. In the last chapters she is finally starting to talk about it. It would have been better if we saw her actually actively getting help throughout the book.
It had the typical getting lost in the passion and forgetting the condom. But of course he will stick by her no matter what. Is it against the Romance Genres rules to mention Plan B? At that point, why would she want to have a baby with someone that didn't call her for 2 years, AFTER he said another woman's name during orgasm.
Can no one figure out their relationship crap without people meddling? In every book there is over bearing friends who always know best. Professionalism doesn't seem to exist anymore either.
I didn't feel the connection between David and Olivia. Saying they would rather have each other than breathe doesn't magically make me love them together. There was no dating or getting to know each other. David was a stalker and got all of his information from her best friend. Olivia heard everything about him from everyone else because he was just such a hero. 🙄 Their relationship was just too easy and boring.
The Suspense? What Suspense? After 50% there is none. If you read Eve's book right before this one there probably isn't any at all.
I read to relax and immerse myself in a story. Silent Scream was anything but relaxing and not in a good way. If everyone would have just worked together and answered their phones it could have been wrapped up in half the time.
Why make David a firefighter when they have him acting like a police officer? He seemed like more of a detective than Olivia. He wasn't very smart about it either. There were more precautions he could have taken but I guess being stupid was supposed to make it interesting.
Please please please, stop making grown men and women blush! It might be okay ONCE in a really embarrassing situation but multiple times is not okay. It is just weird.
Olivia came across as weak. Her struggles were understandable but her reactions were too much. Every other page she was having a panic attack or trying not to cry. In the last chapters she is finally starting to talk about it. It would have been better if we saw her actually actively getting help throughout the book.
It had the typical getting lost in the passion and forgetting the condom. But of course he will stick by her no matter what. Is it against the Romance Genres rules to mention Plan B? At that point, why would she want to have a baby with someone that didn't call her for 2 years, AFTER he said another woman's name during orgasm.
Can no one figure out their relationship crap without people meddling? In every book there is over bearing friends who always know best. Professionalism doesn't seem to exist anymore either.
I didn't feel the connection between David and Olivia. Saying they would rather have each other than breathe doesn't magically make me love them together. There was no dating or getting to know each other. David was a stalker and got all of his information from her best friend. Olivia heard everything about him from everyone else because he was just such a hero. 🙄 Their relationship was just too easy and boring.
The Suspense? What Suspense? After 50% there is none. If you read Eve's book right before this one there probably isn't any at all.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 16, 2015
I enjoyed this quite well, although I didn't feel so compelled to keep picking it up most of the way through, until probably towards the end when it seemed that a lot of the drama was driven by the hero who had a few TSTL moments, jumping in when the police should have been doing the work, and quite a few moments where this happened because the police weren't answering their mobile phones, which I thought on quite a number of occasions seemed convenient to help the hero moving towards his TSTL moments.
As usual it has crimes that were well constructed and an interesting villain, but there were a couple of coincidences with the villain towards the end which seemed a bit more impossible than usual. Not not my favourite Karen Rose I've got to say because the hero seemed a tad annoying and the police should answer their mobiles more often, which they always have in her other books! I will say that it did make me cry.
As usual it has crimes that were well constructed and an interesting villain, but there were a couple of coincidences with the villain towards the end which seemed a bit more impossible than usual. Not not my favourite Karen Rose I've got to say because the hero seemed a tad annoying and the police should answer their mobiles more often, which they always have in her other books! I will say that it did make me cry.
July 18, 2010
This was an awesome book. I have always liked David and was happy tosee him get his book. I thought that he was too perfect through in the other stories. Karen made him very human in this story and we could see that it was a facade, because of an incident in his past. I thought that Olivia was right for him and they had strong chemistry together. You really had to stay with this book, because it was so convoluted it was easy to get lost. Rose pulled it off in the end and I was surprised in the end of who did what and who had done what. There were some upsets in the book, but I don't want to spoil it. I am looking forward to the next Rose.
June 16, 2012
I think I may be done with this author. While she writes a pretty good mystery and the action is good, I find the romance part of her books interfere with the mystery - like she can't decide what she wants to be - a bodice ripper or a good action/mystery writer. The two don't meld well and the two books I've read are very predictable.
March 18, 2019
Karen Rose est une auteure que j’aime beaucoup. Ce tome confirme une fois de plus son talent sur cette excellente série. Je ne suis jamais déçue, chaque tome ayant son lot de suspens et de rebondissements. Et même si j’ai eu quelques doutes sur le couple Olivia/David au départ, tout a été balayé au fur et à mesure du roman. J’ai eu beau deviner assez vite l’antagoniste de l’histoire, les coups de théâtre sur la dernière partie du roman m’ont captivé, et je n’ai pas pu faire autrement que de finir mon livre au lieu de dormir. Incapable de le lâcher avant la fin.
Cette série est une pépite mêlant habilement suspens et romance. On retrouve avec plaisir quelques personnages des tomes précédents, ce qui permet de faire un lien entre les histoires qui peuvent se lire indépendamment. Et il y a les personnages secondaires auxquels on s’attache facilement, parfois avec regret.
Une très bonne lecture, addictive et captivante.
Cette série est une pépite mêlant habilement suspens et romance. On retrouve avec plaisir quelques personnages des tomes précédents, ce qui permet de faire un lien entre les histoires qui peuvent se lire indépendamment. Et il y a les personnages secondaires auxquels on s’attache facilement, parfois avec regret.
Une très bonne lecture, addictive et captivante.
May 31, 2024
Four college students set a condo on fire because it's being built on wetlands—their crusade falters when a professional blackmailer films them. Detective Sutherland and Kane are on the case of multiple arsons.
I can't believe I read a romantic suspense and loved it. The romance was very slow and didn't interfere with the case and I adored the love interests. I loved all the police and firefighter characters, too. I also enjoyed the crime and didn't figure it out until just before the reveal. The beginning was slow and I was unsure I wouldn't DNF but I got caught up in the characters and never looked back. My first in the series but number eleven. It did tell about past events but never gave anything away. I'll be starting with number one now. Recommended to try if you don't typically like the genre.
I can't believe I read a romantic suspense and loved it. The romance was very slow and didn't interfere with the case and I adored the love interests. I loved all the police and firefighter characters, too. I also enjoyed the crime and didn't figure it out until just before the reveal. The beginning was slow and I was unsure I wouldn't DNF but I got caught up in the characters and never looked back. My first in the series but number eleven. It did tell about past events but never gave anything away. I'll be starting with number one now. Recommended to try if you don't typically like the genre.
December 25, 2019
Another sub-series in the larger series - this one deals with Olivia and David, both of whom we've met in previous installments. It was interesting to see their relationship play out against the larger backdrop of the mystery. The mystery involved multiple characters in an interesting plot involving arson, blackmail, and murder. The author did a good job of bringing in characters from previous novels. This is a series best read in order - although I'm sure that each novel can stand on its own merits, there is too much that builds up from past novels. The next in the series takes the series to another city and set of characters, although there seem to be a few in Minneapolis for future episodes.
January 20, 2019
A wonderful romantic suspense thriller. There was a complex mystery with a lot of nuances. It was hard to see where it was going and a lot of things happened. The investigation was believable and interesting. AND along with all of that there was a really powerful, sexy romance. I listened to the book in audio format and it worked very well as an audiobook. The narrator was quite good and the story flowed well. Anyone that enjoys thrilling crime stories with some excellent romantic elements would love this book.
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