Helpful Score: 8
First of all, you need to know that this is not your typical Deeanne Gist novel. It's not Historical; it does not have her trademark "edgy" romance vibe; nor is it really a Romance. I would have to classify it as Mystery/Suspense with a light romantic vein. To me, it felt like this story showed more of J. Mark Bertrand's writing style, since he "comes from a hard-boiled crime thriller background" (as stated on the back cover), than Deeanne's. I kept waiting for her "edgy" romance to shine through, but was really disappointed. A few romantic parts I thought had the potential to turn "edgy", but they stayed low-key. Taking all of this into consideration, it was a pretty good read...if you enjoy a good mystery, which I do on occasion. You will most likely be on the edge of your seat trying to figure out who the bad guy(s) is/are. I stuck with my gut feeling, and turned out to be partially right! I guess that was thanks to my fascination with Nancy Drew and The Hardy Boys when I was growing up, before I became enamored with romance novels. :)
Since the excerpt from the back cover pretty much covers the gist of the story, there's not much more I can add, without giving away any vital parts. Although I do want to mention that I thoroughly enjoyed meeting all of Rylee's "clients"...they were a great addition to the story. Romeo and Toro were my favorites.
Since the excerpt from the back cover pretty much covers the gist of the story, there's not much more I can add, without giving away any vital parts. Although I do want to mention that I thoroughly enjoyed meeting all of Rylee's "clients"...they were a great addition to the story. Romeo and Toro were my favorites.
Helpful Score: 4
Set in the city of Charleston, this mystery keeps you guessing. Rylee, an orphaned dog walker, is the sole caretaker of her grandmother in a nursing home. She feels deserted by her fanter who left when she was young and her mother was found dead 2 days later from a sleeping pill overdose. Due to her insecurities, she has never become involved with any one even though she was a very attractive young woman. When the homes of her wealthy clients started to be broken into, Rylee becomes a chief suspect. The characters are well developed and the book is a page turner.
Helpful Score: 3
Excellent collaborative novel! The other reviewers are right when they say this is not Deeanne Gist's typical writing style, however, her wonderful abilities to craft a realistic romantic story and to make you feel like you are standing there seeing what the characters are seeing coming shining through. If this is any indication of J Bertrand's work, he has a talent for crafting a well-thought out mystery with plenty of intrigue, twist and suspense.
Together, they did a great job on Beguiled. I have read some collaborative projects where you could tell who wrote which parts, but this book was seamless in its flow. A great read!
Together, they did a great job on Beguiled. I have read some collaborative projects where you could tell who wrote which parts, but this book was seamless in its flow. A great read!
Helpful Score: 2
This was a really good book. I have read several books in the past by Deanne Gist and let me say, this is not her typical writing. The mystery in it was excellent. It also had a nice touch of romance.
I have read many books in the past written by dual authors; this one takes the cake. I will definitely read any other books that these two authors write.
Very good read. Well worth the time.
I have read many books in the past written by dual authors; this one takes the cake. I will definitely read any other books that these two authors write.
Very good read. Well worth the time.
Helpful Score: 2
This is a good suspense novel with Christian themes in the book.
