2-3-4 Challenge Book Discussions #2 discussion

Once Mirriam and his thugs are locked up, it’s assumed the threat to Lyra is over and her protection leaves. This seems to be a pattern in this series. Did you know the threat wasn’t over or were you screaming No, Not Again? Are you okay with this repeated plot point or is it getting old?

I noticed that pattern too. This time I just figured Sam would figure it out in time. It is getting old. But if we weren't reading these books one a month, I doubt we would even notice.

As I wrote several questions above, I fell asleep at some point while trying to read this book in one sitting. So I really did not like seeing more come up and I hope this pattern is not reflective of the entire series.

As smart as this heroine is, I wish she had been highlighted more as a problem solver, too. She is a brilliant film student, notices all kinds of things, but misses a lot at the crime scene (park/dump).

I was screaming "Not Again". The author was certainly following a formula with this series. We know that at 80 - 85%, the cops will think that the problem is solved and the bad guys have been put away. We know they either got the wrong guy or there is a second killer waiting in the wings.

I agree, Robin. This series is following a formula and I really hope it changes up.

I noticed too, and I was disappointed. As much as I liked this couple, I was put off by the repeat formula. I struggled whether to put my review at 3 or 4. If it hadn't been for Milo, I would have rated 3*

I have decided to overlook this plot ploy. When I first read the series, I was reading them as they were published and never noticed the problem. Reading them a month apart shows up a lot of devices that the author uses from book to book. I can overlook that.

You are right Anita. I had the same problem with a series I just finished. when I became frustrated with the repetition, I put the remainder of the series away for a few months. When I went back, it was fresh, and I loved them.

I had a hard time deciding on my rating too, Sharon. I didn't know whether to rate it as a standalone or as part of the series where every book has the same plot devices. I went with standalone. The book stands up on its own.

I'm in until the very last book and it makes me sad that Garwood is no longer around to write more. I love the heroes and heroines! Just hoping for some variety in plot lines but I suspect you're all right in that it only feels repetitive because we're reading them one after the other.

I'm sad too, Sandra. Julie Garwood wrote wonderful Romantic-Suspense with the perfect balance between the two. I will miss her deeply.