Helpful Score: 3
I loved Notorious Nineteen. It was a quick and funny read. Ranger seems to be more prominent in this one. Always a plus!
Jackie M. (jackiemo) -
Helpful Score: 2
Eh. Same old same old. I think if a series this long is going to be successful, the characters need to learn and develop. Stephanie's car blows up. Big surprise. Lula wears some "poison green spandex." Again. Ranger inappropriately touches Stephanie in an intimate fashion and she likes it! Someone breaks into her apartment. They lose a client by allowing her to go get something in her home. Wouldn't you think at this point, they would have that one figured out?
At this point, you would expect Stephanie to either move, get better security, learn how to be comfortable with a firearm, or refuse to allow anyone return alone into a home for any reason. I didn't hate this book, but will probably skip the next installment. It was an okay way to spend a few hours without thinking too hard. About anything.
At this point, you would expect Stephanie to either move, get better security, learn how to be comfortable with a firearm, or refuse to allow anyone return alone into a home for any reason. I didn't hate this book, but will probably skip the next installment. It was an okay way to spend a few hours without thinking too hard. About anything.
Helpful Score: 2
Several years ago, Sue Grafton lost a huge hunk of her fan base because readers became frustrated with the lack of personal growth in her character, Kinsey Millhone. Evanovich may be going the same way.
Stephanie Plum needs to decide on one man or the other or find someone new. The three-way romance is no longer interesting. The shock value of Granny is gone. In this story, 3 cars were bombed: Stephanies, Joe Morellis and Rangers. Boy, that is a real surprise I believe theres been a car bombing in each of the last 10 books.
Just to add to the fun, someone dies in Stephanies apartment I dont think that hasnt happened in at least 2 books. I note that Evanovich has joined forces with a couple of different writers. The latest with Dorian Kelly is awful (THE HUSBAND LIST). I havent read THE HEIST and doubt I will.
In this edition, Steph helps Joe Morelli and Trentons police search for an embezzler who disappears after surgery on his appendix. The Trenton police need Stephanie Plum? Meanwhile, she agrees to act as backup for Ranger at pre-wedding festivities. Stephanie cant even remember to load her gun; if Ranger thinks she can be a successful backup, he should just eat his gun now.
There were a few laugh-out-loud moments; but they were very few. Even Lula has grown tired and boring. Read something else. 2 stars
Stephanie Plum needs to decide on one man or the other or find someone new. The three-way romance is no longer interesting. The shock value of Granny is gone. In this story, 3 cars were bombed: Stephanies, Joe Morellis and Rangers. Boy, that is a real surprise I believe theres been a car bombing in each of the last 10 books.
Just to add to the fun, someone dies in Stephanies apartment I dont think that hasnt happened in at least 2 books. I note that Evanovich has joined forces with a couple of different writers. The latest with Dorian Kelly is awful (THE HUSBAND LIST). I havent read THE HEIST and doubt I will.
In this edition, Steph helps Joe Morelli and Trentons police search for an embezzler who disappears after surgery on his appendix. The Trenton police need Stephanie Plum? Meanwhile, she agrees to act as backup for Ranger at pre-wedding festivities. Stephanie cant even remember to load her gun; if Ranger thinks she can be a successful backup, he should just eat his gun now.
There were a few laugh-out-loud moments; but they were very few. Even Lula has grown tired and boring. Read something else. 2 stars
Helpful Score: 2
I have to agree with jjares. This is getting boring; Stephanie keeps falling for the same stupid tricks; cars keep getting blown up; she can't make up her mind between Joe & Ranger. Its the same old, same old. C'mon Janet; let's wind this up or step up your game. I feel like I am reading the same book over & over.
Linda B. (lindaboynton) reviewed Notorious Nineteen (Stephanie Plum, Bk 19) on + 15 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
I love the humor in Evanovich's books and this one had me laughing at quite a few points! I enjoyed every minute of reading it.
Suzan J. (jonesboysmom) -
Helpful Score: 1
I just love this series. Stephanie is so funny! The thought of having her choice between Ranger or Morelli would be glorious. I really liked it. Very comical.
Leanne D. (eclecticmusicmama) reviewed Notorious Nineteen (Stephanie Plum, Bk 19) on + 426 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Good quick read. Laugh out loud funny.
However, I found parts near the end more graphic and darker than some of her books, so if this affects you, try to finish it in the daytime.
However, I found parts near the end more graphic and darker than some of her books, so if this affects you, try to finish it in the daytime.
I have always liked this funny series, and plunked down a lot of $ for a hard copy of the latest book #19. So I'm writing this review to save you $$-->> Don't buy $$it$! Check it outta the library if you want to read it or wait until it's issued in paperback! This book isn't worth it. Janet Evanovich is burned out and unable to advance her characters at all. zip, zilch, zero. Stephanie continues to be on the fence and the rest of the story is the usual... so for that I only give it 2 stars.
O.K. Not up to her usual fun. I have really enjoyed Stephanie Plum up to this point. Would read aloud excerps to my hubby as we were driving along, but thiswas not up to her usual enthusiasm.
As a long time Stephanie Plum fan, I enjoyed this book much more than the last few. It wasn't so "over the top," but still had funny moments - and a nice mixture of Lula, Grandma, Morelli and Ranger, with a return of Randy Briggs. Stephanie was Stephanie, naturally there were exploding vehicles and mishaps,but the storyline was more cohesive, and it was a good, quick read.
Sherri B. (sharalsbooks) reviewed Notorious Nineteen (Stephanie Plum, Bk 19) on + 259 more book reviews
First of all, ask and you shall receive! Janet Evanovich must have heard my desperate plea for more Ranger after I read Explosive Eighteen because I am happy, no, not happy. I am deliriously ecstatic to report that where Eighteen left me with an extreme Ranger withdrawal, Notorious Nineteen more than made up for it and provided me with the Ranger fix I have been desperately needing!
One of my favorite things about this series is how Stephanie has several sticks in the fire. With every book, Stephanie has several FTA's she is actively looking for and occasionally she will have the opportunity to get involved in something exciting. Notorious Nineteen gave me more than I dared to hope for. In addition to looking for Cubbin, Stephanie finds herself saddled with a wooden Tiki carving that she confiscates from another FTA. There are several amusing scenes where the FTA continues to try to steal Tiki back and I loved how Stephanie resolved this FTAs situation. The best part of this book for me was that Stephanie gets to work for Ranger as a bodyguard, of all things! Im sure I sound like a broken record, but I think Ranger is one of the best written heroes in contemporary womens fiction. I dont think we have yet learned any of Rangers faults or shortcomings. And if there are any that have already been revealed to the loyal members of Team Ranger, we have blocked them from our minds because of all of his extraordinary traits dominate everything else. The man is either a saint or a god. He would have to be to put up with Stephanies crazy antics, especially when he has got to be out at least ten vehicles (though its probably more), due in large part to Stephanie. Unfortunately, for Joe, he loses a car in this book too, so these things seem to have a way of spreading out and sharing the love, so to speak. Theres definitely a lot more story there between Ranger and Stephanie and Im anxiously waiting to see what happens next.
Another great part of this book is Lula really steps up her game in this story. On more than one occasion, Lula thinks outside the box and with some fast thinking actually brings about some interesting and hilarious results. I really like seeing this side of Lula. Shes great as a sidekick, but I think she would be brilliant as Stephanies equal partner.
If you enjoy light mystery, campy comedy, drool-worthy heroes and a wacky heroine who is a hot mess but manages to succeed and comes out ahead in spite of the odds, then I recommend this series. I believe they are best read in order. Notorious Nineteen may not be the best story of the series, but this book gave me hope that the series does not appear to be on the way out. Thats a very good thing.
One of my favorite things about this series is how Stephanie has several sticks in the fire. With every book, Stephanie has several FTA's she is actively looking for and occasionally she will have the opportunity to get involved in something exciting. Notorious Nineteen gave me more than I dared to hope for. In addition to looking for Cubbin, Stephanie finds herself saddled with a wooden Tiki carving that she confiscates from another FTA. There are several amusing scenes where the FTA continues to try to steal Tiki back and I loved how Stephanie resolved this FTAs situation. The best part of this book for me was that Stephanie gets to work for Ranger as a bodyguard, of all things! Im sure I sound like a broken record, but I think Ranger is one of the best written heroes in contemporary womens fiction. I dont think we have yet learned any of Rangers faults or shortcomings. And if there are any that have already been revealed to the loyal members of Team Ranger, we have blocked them from our minds because of all of his extraordinary traits dominate everything else. The man is either a saint or a god. He would have to be to put up with Stephanies crazy antics, especially when he has got to be out at least ten vehicles (though its probably more), due in large part to Stephanie. Unfortunately, for Joe, he loses a car in this book too, so these things seem to have a way of spreading out and sharing the love, so to speak. Theres definitely a lot more story there between Ranger and Stephanie and Im anxiously waiting to see what happens next.
Another great part of this book is Lula really steps up her game in this story. On more than one occasion, Lula thinks outside the box and with some fast thinking actually brings about some interesting and hilarious results. I really like seeing this side of Lula. Shes great as a sidekick, but I think she would be brilliant as Stephanies equal partner.
If you enjoy light mystery, campy comedy, drool-worthy heroes and a wacky heroine who is a hot mess but manages to succeed and comes out ahead in spite of the odds, then I recommend this series. I believe they are best read in order. Notorious Nineteen may not be the best story of the series, but this book gave me hope that the series does not appear to be on the way out. Thats a very good thing.
MONICA V. (mvtrekkie) reviewed Notorious Nineteen (Stephanie Plum, Bk 19) on + 231 more book reviews
Loved it! It was funny all the way through and held my attention until the last page.
This one has more of Lula, which is always funny. Of course the romance between Stephanie and Morelli. And then there is Ranger--Babe.
This one has more of Lula, which is always funny. Of course the romance between Stephanie and Morelli. And then there is Ranger--Babe.
I love the Stephanie Plum series! It's like watching a TV sitcom. I have enjoyed this entire series. I hope this author keeps writing more of these. The Morelli/Ranger bumper stickers in the back of this one cracked me up!
Enjoyable, easy read. Some laugh out loud moments Stephanie Plum moments. Great beach, train or plane read.
Another great Stephanie Plum book! Lots of action and laughs, I always enjoy these!
To date, I've read every book in the Stephanie Plum series. I absolutely loved the first 5-7 books and the characters within the book. However, as time has gone on I find the stores to be very predictable and wish Evanovich would inject a new character something into the series just to spice things up. Every plot is pretty much the same - car blows up, problems with both Joe and Ranger, etc., etc. Evanovich is a fantastic writer and has such a great ability to bring the characters to life...i.e grandma - what a hoot! Not sure I'll run out and get "20".
Another great read by Janet Evanovich. I wish that Stephanie could figure out which guy to be with. She's always in a tug of war between the two in her mind.
Laura S. (nisforneville) -
I love the characters in this series, but this installment seemed a bit rushed.
Diane G. (icesk8tr) -
Same plot, same characters, and still moments that make you laugh. This is a fast read because as with some of the more recent books of hers, the margins are huge, thus, less type/story per page. I think she needs to incorporate some new characters in the story, or bring back some of the more colorful ones to make it more interesting.
Lana K. (mazeydazey) -
Still same plot, still same characters, still same sexy Ranger and Morelli, still made me laugh, still entertaining and I will still continue reading this series as long as I have laugh out loud moments like I did with this one. Stephanie, Lula, Ranger and Morelli will be forever in my repertoire of folks to share my time with when I need light fluff and humor to brighten my day.
Marianne S. (sfc95) -
I loved it. This is the stuff of books 1-8, Stephanie Plum is back and the action is back just like it was int he beginning. I loved it and cannot wait for Plum 20!
Same characters, plot etc, but it was fun and will make you laugh.
A typical Evanovich/Plum-series book in that it is a fun, fast read, and would be a great vacation/beach book as you dont have to delve too deeply into it for a plot, or to keep the characters straight. Stephanie Plum, Lula, and Ranger take center stage in the story this time, along with a sprinkling of Morelli for good measure. A few surprises and some laughs keep the reader entertained. Stephanie doesnt seem to be as ditsy this time around and my only complaint is that Janet Evanovich continues to subject the reader to her prejudice against fat people in her descriptions. Evanovich goes out of her way to point out excessive weight of a character; however, she doesnt do this with other descriptions/characteristics, including color, nationality, etc. Seriously? In this day and age? As talented of a writer as she is, one would think she could find better ways to create and/or describe a character. All-in-all, a typical Evanovich/Plum-series book. If youre hoping to be surprised with something new or different, youll be disappointed; however, if youre looking for a quick, easy, fun read surrounding the usual Stephanie Plum, this book will give you your fix.
Mona R. (raemonie) -
I Love this book
they keep getting better, I just can't put Stephanie down. I never seen anyone who can get into so much trouble.
New Jersey bounty hunter Stephanie Plum is certain of three truths: People dont just vanish into thin air. Never anger old people. And dont do what Tiki tells you to do. After a slow summer of chasing low-level skips for her cousin Vinnies bail bonds agency, Stephanie Plum finally lands an assignment that could put her checkbook back in the black. Geoffrey Cubbin, facing trial for embezzling millions from Trentons premier assisted-living facility, has mysteriously vanished from the hospital after an emergency appendectomy. Now its on Stephanie to track him down. Unfortunately, Cubbin has disappeared without a trace, a witness, or his money-hungry wife. Rumors are stirring that he must have had help with the daring escape . . . or that maybe he never made it out of his room alive. Since the hospital staffs lips seem to be tighter than the security, and its hard for Stephanie to blend in to assisted living, Stephanies Grandma Mazur goes in undercover. But when a second felon goes missing from the same hospital, Stephanie is forced into working side by side with Trentons hottest cop, Joe Morelli, in order to crack the case.
The real problem is, no Cubbin also means no way to pay the rent. Desperate for money -- or maybe just desperate -- Stephanie accepts a secondary job guarding her secretive and mouthwatering mentor Ranger from a deadly Special Forces adversary. While Stephanie is notorious for finding trouble, she may have found a little more than she bargained for this time around. Then again -- a little food poisoning, some threatening notes, and a bridesmaids dress with an excess of taffeta never killed anyone . . . or did they? If Stephanie Plum wants to bring in a paycheck, shell have to remember: No guts, no glory.
The real problem is, no Cubbin also means no way to pay the rent. Desperate for money -- or maybe just desperate -- Stephanie accepts a secondary job guarding her secretive and mouthwatering mentor Ranger from a deadly Special Forces adversary. While Stephanie is notorious for finding trouble, she may have found a little more than she bargained for this time around. Then again -- a little food poisoning, some threatening notes, and a bridesmaids dress with an excess of taffeta never killed anyone . . . or did they? If Stephanie Plum wants to bring in a paycheck, shell have to remember: No guts, no glory.
Enjoyed this the same as all the previous 18. I hope this series never ends.
Another really fun Stephanie Plum book. I have read them all and can't say I have ever been disappointed.
Stephanie, Stephanie, Stephanie! She's trying to find her disappearing fta's... find Briggs as head of security at Central. Ranger needs a date. She gets possession of Tiki. Still following all possible leads, she finds an Albino, F Sunshine and The Clinic. Still no FTA's. Date night ends with food poisoning. Another patient goes missing. Now she's hired for the maid of honor at the wedding! Still tracking down a host of strange information, but no fta. The wife of the fta, who has figured out the message her missing husband left and she invites Stephanie to help. Briggs and Morelli are involved in the latest missing patient. Of course there is still one outstanding whack job stalking Ranger and friend. Orin meets Stephanie at her apartment and gives her a new hair do...
Things get explosive and Orin is out of the picture. Logan and Tiki head back to Hawaii. Briggs, Morelli and Steph go investigating The Clinic and they find more then they bargain for... Mr. Sunshine has three new donors and Steph gets the cemetary treatment and Batman! comes to the rescue not once but twice in the same day!
But Lula and Stephanie still have a loose end, they found Pitch, but not Cubbins. Stephanie always gets her man!
Things get explosive and Orin is out of the picture. Logan and Tiki head back to Hawaii. Briggs, Morelli and Steph go investigating The Clinic and they find more then they bargain for... Mr. Sunshine has three new donors and Steph gets the cemetary treatment and Batman! comes to the rescue not once but twice in the same day!
But Lula and Stephanie still have a loose end, they found Pitch, but not Cubbins. Stephanie always gets her man!
Pretty typical Stephanie Plum adventure just a different set of characters and setting. I really enjoy the Plum adventures since they are light, easy reading. I would recommend this book if you are looking for a funny, romantic adventure mystery.
A great romping laugh.
Another fun, fast read in the series. This was better than 17 & 18. Still loving Stephanie Plum and the gang!
I love all of Stephanie Plums adventures. Thumbs up
I had mixed feelings about this book. It has one or two funny set pieces, but the whole series went south for me when Stephanie slept with Ranger - and then went on being tempted even though she was theoretically more or less committed to Morelli. From being a funny, feisty, independent woman she went to being an insensitive, indecisive slut, one who apparently doesn't care what pain she causes to Morelli. The set pieces aren't as funny as they were and Stephanie's inability to commit is beginning to look like mental illness to me. In short, the author painted herself into a corner and has gone nowhere with this crew since. Way past time to quit on this series. This particular installment is just okay, while One for the Money (despite the horrible movie made from it) is still fresh and funny and suspenseful.
Love the series.
