Shannon Y. (dolphinlover) reviewed Sweetheart (Archie and Gretchen, Bk 2) on + 209 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 8
I really enjoyed this one. The first installment of the series-Heartsick was really good. I loved this second one. I can't describe how good it was. Chelsea Cain is worth the hype. Please do read Heartsick first though you will be able to feel this book's emotion much more if you do.
Helpful Score: 8
Last year, I read Heartsick and was blown away. Tonight, in one sitting, I read Sweetheart and was again in awe. Like Heartsick, Sweetheart has to be one of my all time favorite books.
The twisted, sick, unstable relationship between Archie and Gretchen is written so perfectly. This author has a true gift for writing. She puts you there at the scene. You smell the corpses. You taste the bitterness of the pills Archie continues to shovel in like candy. This book drags you in from page 1 and doesn't let go even long after you've closed the book.
All I can say is Chelsea Cain better be writing another book asap!!!!
The twisted, sick, unstable relationship between Archie and Gretchen is written so perfectly. This author has a true gift for writing. She puts you there at the scene. You smell the corpses. You taste the bitterness of the pills Archie continues to shovel in like candy. This book drags you in from page 1 and doesn't let go even long after you've closed the book.
All I can say is Chelsea Cain better be writing another book asap!!!!
Helpful Score: 5
This "series" (I can only hope there will be more!) reminds me a lot of Thomas Harris' Hannibal Lechter. The character Gretchen Lowell is extremely intelligent but also enormously twisted. Another excellent read from this author. I was not disappointed!
Helpful Score: 5
Although both Heartsick and Sweetheart contain plot elements commonly found in serial killer/thriller books, Cain's series continues to be outstanding because she brings her characters to life so well. The main character of Archie is especially unique, and the scenes in Sweetheart in which Archie tries to return to a normal life with his family are very poignant.
In addition, Cain manages to maintain a dark tone throughout both books, causing the reader to feel a sense of dread as s/he turns the pages. The reader is submerged in the grisly details of Archie's world from page 1 of Sweetheart.
Although I very much enjoyed the Gretchen storyline of Sweetheart, overall I did not like it as much as Heartsick because I was a little disappointed by the Susan storyline. It seemed like relating the two stories was too much of a stretch.
Overall however, this book is a must read for fans of grisly thrillers, and I hope that Cain does not make us wait as long for the third installment.
In addition, Cain manages to maintain a dark tone throughout both books, causing the reader to feel a sense of dread as s/he turns the pages. The reader is submerged in the grisly details of Archie's world from page 1 of Sweetheart.
Although I very much enjoyed the Gretchen storyline of Sweetheart, overall I did not like it as much as Heartsick because I was a little disappointed by the Susan storyline. It seemed like relating the two stories was too much of a stretch.
Overall however, this book is a must read for fans of grisly thrillers, and I hope that Cain does not make us wait as long for the third installment.
Helpful Score: 4
Archie Sheridan is a homicide detective, as well as The Beauty Killer, Gretchen Lowell's, last victim. This is a very dark, disturbing book. Archie Sheridan was tortured and mutilated by Gretchen Lowell before she was captured and sent to prison. Despite the un-ending nightmares and the addiction to pill killers brought about as a result of his experience with Gretchen, Archie is in love with Gretchen and is obsessed with being with her. This book is a page-turner -- filled with twists and turns. Not for the faint of heart though.
Helpful Score: 4
When I finished reading HEARTSICK, the first novel of this series, I touted it as the best thriller ever. I still stand by that sentiment. And even though SWEETHEART doesn't quite live up to the greatness of that first book, it's still a really good read.
All of the characters from the first book are back, and they find themselves in circumstances that are, in a lot of ways, similar to those in the first book.
Archie is still obsessed with Gretchen. Gretchen is still obsessed with killing -- and with Archie.
Archie's family, friends, and co-workers are trying to help him end his addiction to both painkillers and Gretchen, but it doesn't seem to be working. He's living with his ex-wife and children, and he loves them and wants to keep them safe, and yet he still wants -- no, needs -- to be with Gretchen in some way.
The plot is added to (and sometimes complicated by) the story that Susan Ward began working on in HEARTSICK -- that of the affair between the beloved Senator and the underage babysitter. This story becomes intertwined with the present when Susan's friend/mentor is killed, and the case falls into Archie's lap.
SWEETHEART is a fairly quick read, and I stayed up late to finish it. I really did like it, even though I wasn't as impressed with it as I was HEARTSICK.
There's no doubt that Archie and Gretchen will be back. I'm anxious to see more of them, and to find out who will be the death of who.
All of the characters from the first book are back, and they find themselves in circumstances that are, in a lot of ways, similar to those in the first book.
Archie is still obsessed with Gretchen. Gretchen is still obsessed with killing -- and with Archie.
Archie's family, friends, and co-workers are trying to help him end his addiction to both painkillers and Gretchen, but it doesn't seem to be working. He's living with his ex-wife and children, and he loves them and wants to keep them safe, and yet he still wants -- no, needs -- to be with Gretchen in some way.
The plot is added to (and sometimes complicated by) the story that Susan Ward began working on in HEARTSICK -- that of the affair between the beloved Senator and the underage babysitter. This story becomes intertwined with the present when Susan's friend/mentor is killed, and the case falls into Archie's lap.
SWEETHEART is a fairly quick read, and I stayed up late to finish it. I really did like it, even though I wasn't as impressed with it as I was HEARTSICK.
There's no doubt that Archie and Gretchen will be back. I'm anxious to see more of them, and to find out who will be the death of who.
This is an excellent sequel but should be read in order. Heartsick is the first book. I think that this female character is one of the most well developed characters that I have read in a long time. It is great work and I would highly recommend this author and series as there are now 3 books.
Helpful Score: 2
Heartsick is a dizzying novel. Lurid and suspenseful with well-drawn characters, plenty of grisly surprises and tart dialogue, it delivers what readers of this particular kind of thriller expect.
The best thriller writers are the ones who dont tell you everything, but let you figure out some things for yourself. They also avoid stereotypes, and make the primary characters stand out. Cain does everything right in this novel, to the extent that I sometimes stopped reading to marvel.
Cain does a masterful job of tying the different threads together in a way that surprised me. The rarest kind of surprise, too, when my urge is to read the book from the beginning right away, to see what clues I missed.
The best thriller writers are the ones who dont tell you everything, but let you figure out some things for yourself. They also avoid stereotypes, and make the primary characters stand out. Cain does everything right in this novel, to the extent that I sometimes stopped reading to marvel.
Cain does a masterful job of tying the different threads together in a way that surprised me. The rarest kind of surprise, too, when my urge is to read the book from the beginning right away, to see what clues I missed.
Helpful Score: 2
Scary, scary, scary--Chelsea Cain has come up with one of the most sinister serial killers on paper, it just keeps you reading faster and faster but it is so scary to think there might actually be a person out there somewhere like this. Very intense and at times can be very gory but very good reading.
Helpful Score: 2
I'm surprised how much I enjoyed this sequel. It continues to follow the Hannibal Lecter theme, but the actual affair between cop and killer was rather surprising. As she is still on the loose, so it seems like a third one is on the horizon. I'm sure I'll read it, as they do make for fast, fun reads.
Helpful Score: 1
I did not read Heartsick first -- which I at first thought might be a mistake -- but then found out this book stood on its own. Couldn't put it down (trite but true). Lot's of twists -- and very real relationships (lots of unspoken secrets from the ones we love the most). Read it only if you're okay with graphic writing about blood/pain, etc.
Helpful Score: 1
What a ride, LOVED this book! I'm sure it would stand alone but to really get the best understanding of the background/characters, I highly recommend reading HEARTSICK first.
Helpful Score: 1
Better than the first book. This time Gretchen gets more action (so to speak). I was on the edge the whole book and i can't wait to read the 3rd.
Helpful Score: 1
Great book!!!! I thought it was better than the first installment. Can not wait to read the 3rd. Archie and Gretchen book.....
Helpful Score: 1
Reminds me of "Criminal Minds" = enjoy the darkness.
Helpful Score: 1
This was a fast paced book, second in the series and certainly worht reading. I think it was better than the first one, but it just could be that you identified with the characters more, a good series and I am on the edge of my seat waiting for the next one.
Helpful Score: 1
Love Chelsea Cain's Archie Sheridan and Gretchen Lowell books and this one doesn't disappoint. Lots of twists, good character development.
Wende S. (frogprincess) -
Helpful Score: 1
i read heartsick and was blown away then i just had to purchase sweetheart - i was not disappointed ! i could have read in one sitting! I am hoping and praying she comes out with another ! LOVED IT ! LOVED IT and LOVED IT !
Great sequel to Heartsick. Basic premise is serial killer v. Serial killer victim based in Portland, Oregon. Do not read this without reading Heartsick first. They are the type of books that just suck you in until you sadly realize that your finished. I highly recommend if you like thrillers.
AMAZING book. burned through this one just as fast as the first. especially love the portland setting, and the quirky, interesting characters.
This is the second book in the Archie and Gretchen series and was truly engrossing. It is gritty and unrelenting. The author has a masterful way of locking the two of them into a creepy symbiotic relationship that pulls you right in. It is a twist on the serial killer plot line from the female perspective. I could not put this book down, definitely full of twists and turns. The characters are complex and engaging. This was an excellent read and every bit as engrossing as the first in the series (Heartsick). You will not be disappointed. I can't wait to read the the third book in the series!!!!
This is book 2 in the series and it was as good as the first. This is a very fast paced; fast read, and once you start, it's hard to put down. Can't wait for book 3 to see what happens next.
Samantha S. (Duchesssammi) -
WOW I was blown away by how awesome this book was.
It just sucked you in from page 1 and never let go. It is one of those once you start you
cannot put down books.
The continuing saga of Archie and Gretchen it boggles the mind how two complete opposites can be so drawn to each other in ways that I cannot describe. (to do so would give the book away).
You must read Heartsick first just to keep the books in order and yes she has the third installment out and oh yeah ....it was just as great.
It just sucked you in from page 1 and never let go. It is one of those once you start you
cannot put down books.
The continuing saga of Archie and Gretchen it boggles the mind how two complete opposites can be so drawn to each other in ways that I cannot describe. (to do so would give the book away).
You must read Heartsick first just to keep the books in order and yes she has the third installment out and oh yeah ....it was just as great.
I really enjoy this series. I hated that it was so long between the first book and the second. I had to reread the first book. I definately recommend reading them in order. You will not understand them if you don't. This book really appeals to me because of having a woman serial killer. Good read and good storyline. Very likeable characters. The books pick up right where the last one left off. Highly recommended!!!!!
Archie hasn't seen Gretchen Lowell in two months and suffers terribly under the abstinence he's put on himself for his family's and own sake. He's seriously dependent on pain medication much more mental than physical. He is about to die if he doesn't quit taking pills but Archie doesn't really care about his spirit anymore. He's dead since Gretchen Lowell tortured him, leaving his body mutilated and in constant pain. From the outside it looks like he is much better since he moved back to his house to be with his ex-wife Debbie and his two children.
When a dead body is found in a wilderness park he contacts Susan Ward, working for The Herald to take over the coverage.
The investigation becomes hot when Susan is able to identify the unknown women they just found because she was the main witness in a case than Susan was about to reveal in her paper. Molly Palmer was raped by Senator Castle when she was 14 years old and working for him as a babysitter. Just as the story is going to be in print the Senator and Susan's involved co-worker Quentin Parker die in a car accident and Molly is killed.
On top of that Gretchen Lowell has been assaulted by a guard and requires Archie's presence in prison. Archie's instantly drawn back to her watched by his partner Henry who orders a lockdown on Gretchen and a transfer to another state. |During this transfer Gretchen escapes.
Archie is relieved for Gretchen and worried about his family. Susan received a gift of chocolate hearts supposedly send to her by Archie but he never sent it. The Sheridan family and Susan and her mom are hidden in a club to keep them save and Archie knows there is only one way for him to save his families future: To get her and die with her.
He recklessly fleas their shelter just to be picked up by Gretchen who once again instantly drugs him.
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This is an amazing, gripping continuation of Chelsea Cain's first thriller Heartsick. I didn't expect the second book to be so completely topping the first one so it was a huge surprise how much the authors writing style has improved.
The characters from the first novel return, some developed more, some less. Henry, Archie's partner is still the cool headed, loyal partner watching out for Archie. Susan is shortly before publishing her breakthrough as crime reporter and still dreams about writing crime books.
We learn about Archie's relationship with his ex-wife and his struggle when his children begin to talk about Gretchen Lowell.
It left me wanting more and worrying about what worse can happen to this haunted man.
I recommend to read the prequel first just for the understanding how deep Gretchen and Archie's relationship to each other is.
When a dead body is found in a wilderness park he contacts Susan Ward, working for The Herald to take over the coverage.
The investigation becomes hot when Susan is able to identify the unknown women they just found because she was the main witness in a case than Susan was about to reveal in her paper. Molly Palmer was raped by Senator Castle when she was 14 years old and working for him as a babysitter. Just as the story is going to be in print the Senator and Susan's involved co-worker Quentin Parker die in a car accident and Molly is killed.
On top of that Gretchen Lowell has been assaulted by a guard and requires Archie's presence in prison. Archie's instantly drawn back to her watched by his partner Henry who orders a lockdown on Gretchen and a transfer to another state. |During this transfer Gretchen escapes.
Archie is relieved for Gretchen and worried about his family. Susan received a gift of chocolate hearts supposedly send to her by Archie but he never sent it. The Sheridan family and Susan and her mom are hidden in a club to keep them save and Archie knows there is only one way for him to save his families future: To get her and die with her.
He recklessly fleas their shelter just to be picked up by Gretchen who once again instantly drugs him.
-
This is an amazing, gripping continuation of Chelsea Cain's first thriller Heartsick. I didn't expect the second book to be so completely topping the first one so it was a huge surprise how much the authors writing style has improved.
The characters from the first novel return, some developed more, some less. Henry, Archie's partner is still the cool headed, loyal partner watching out for Archie. Susan is shortly before publishing her breakthrough as crime reporter and still dreams about writing crime books.
We learn about Archie's relationship with his ex-wife and his struggle when his children begin to talk about Gretchen Lowell.
It left me wanting more and worrying about what worse can happen to this haunted man.
I recommend to read the prequel first just for the understanding how deep Gretchen and Archie's relationship to each other is.
A fantastic follow-up to Heartsick.
Chelsea Cain continues the story of Archie, Susan, and Gretchen as the cop and reporter attempt to resolve a political death and a couple of unidentified bodies found in a park. Top it off with more disclosures about what happened with Archie and Gretchen, revelations about why Archie is so connected to the killer.
The book is a combination of fairly typical murder-mystery and character study of a serial killer/torturer and her victim. The denouement is a little contrived but sets up another book which we'll all agree is very good news indeed.
Excellent.
Chelsea Cain continues the story of Archie, Susan, and Gretchen as the cop and reporter attempt to resolve a political death and a couple of unidentified bodies found in a park. Top it off with more disclosures about what happened with Archie and Gretchen, revelations about why Archie is so connected to the killer.
The book is a combination of fairly typical murder-mystery and character study of a serial killer/torturer and her victim. The denouement is a little contrived but sets up another book which we'll all agree is very good news indeed.
Excellent.
Love this book almost as much as the first one, not for the faint of heart, but one I will keep in my library
Chelsea Cain is a well kept secret. These books are very
entertaining... she is a skilled story teller with a
great store line
entertaining... she is a skilled story teller with a
great store line
