Helpful Score: 10
The 20th novel in Sue Grafton's Kinsey Millhone series is one of the best. In her last outing, "S" IS FOR SILENCE, Grafton altered her style a bit, actually entering other characters' points of view to tell parts of the story so that they shared the narrating duties with Kinsey herself. With this new novel, that device is used to chilling effect--between reports from Kinsey, we enter the mind of a woman who is possibly her most twisted adversary to date.
Solana Rojas is a caregiver, a home-help nurse's aide much like the thousands you'll find all over America. But the woman assigned to care for Kinsey's elderly friend is not your usual "angel of mercy." For one thing, she is not the real Solana Rojas--she has stolen that woman's identity. And she has plans. To tell you more of the plot would be--well, criminal.
The best aspect of Grafton's excellent series is her ability to keep up with current social and legal problems, despite the fact that Kinsey's stories are set somewhere in the 1980s. In this novel we have identity theft, the inherent problems of home care, and--perhaps most disturbing--the tendency of society in general to ignore and/or mistreat our most vulnerable citizens. At least this elderly victim has Kinsey Millhone as a champion. And what a champion she is! "T" IS FOR TRESPASS will captivate longtime Grafton fans, and it should make her a lot of new fans as well. Highly recommended.
Solana Rojas is a caregiver, a home-help nurse's aide much like the thousands you'll find all over America. But the woman assigned to care for Kinsey's elderly friend is not your usual "angel of mercy." For one thing, she is not the real Solana Rojas--she has stolen that woman's identity. And she has plans. To tell you more of the plot would be--well, criminal.
The best aspect of Grafton's excellent series is her ability to keep up with current social and legal problems, despite the fact that Kinsey's stories are set somewhere in the 1980s. In this novel we have identity theft, the inherent problems of home care, and--perhaps most disturbing--the tendency of society in general to ignore and/or mistreat our most vulnerable citizens. At least this elderly victim has Kinsey Millhone as a champion. And what a champion she is! "T" IS FOR TRESPASS will captivate longtime Grafton fans, and it should make her a lot of new fans as well. Highly recommended.
Helpful Score: 5
I've read five others in this series so far (A,B,C,D,I) and this one is absolutely the best I've read. In this one, Grafton adds to Kinsey's narrative the point of view of Solana, a woman who has stolen her identity in order to reap the benefits of her anonymity. Kinsey is asked to do a background check on her when she applies for a position, and once Kinsey realizes something is wrong, it's a race to the end to see whether Kinsey can foil Solana's plans. It all comes to a series of events that is masterfully crafted and suspenseful (dare I say "Thrilling"?). Don't expect to take a break anywhere in the last 100 pages. You won't be able to.
Kerrigan M. (kerriganm) reviewed T is for Trespass (Kinsey Millhone, Bk 20) on + 20 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 5
An unsettling book about elder abuse and duplicity. One is made to feel the helplessness Kinsey Millhone feels as she realizes there is nothing she can do to help an ailing old man at the whim of a sociopath- at least, nothing she can do legally.
Less of a mystery than most of her novels, this book is much more of a thriller. It is certainly frightening! A very engaging page-turner.
Less of a mystery than most of her novels, this book is much more of a thriller. It is certainly frightening! A very engaging page-turner.
Helpful Score: 5
Sue Grafton has done it again. Another book about Kinsey Millhone, this time centering on elder abuse. I never get tired of reading this series & I'm already looking forward to U.
Sharon A. (CaptCookie) -
Helpful Score: 5
I hold my breath waiting for the latest Kinsey Millhone and then I hold my breath as I pore over every page when I get my hands on the newest mystery; this latest was no exception. I really got caught up in the fear factor as the author dragged me kicking and screaming through the gripping ordeal of a senior citizen who one day is merely a crabby, cranky curmudgeon and the next day is on a sad spiral into elder abuse by an amoral, frighteningly-real home-health "companion". I was sick to my stomach thinking: that could happen to any one of us!
Helpful Score: 4
Excellent. The series seemed to get stale for a few books, but this one is quite chilling and well-told. I like that Sue Grafton chose not to bring Kinsey Millhone forward in time -- I like the reminders of what conveniences we did NOT have 20 years ago.
Barbara S. (barbsis) -
Helpful Score: 4
Kinsey Millhone really steps in it this time. This one is a real slow starter almost halfway done before Sue Grafton starts bringing the pieces together.
The premise of the book is elder abuse and fraudulent activities by the in-home health care provider. Solana, has stolen the identity of a real nurse and is scamming money and valuables from an 89 year old man (Gus) who has had a serious fall and needs daily assistance. Gus is Kinsey's neighbor though not really a friend as he is abrasive to everyone. Therefore, there isn't anyone really keeping tabs on him and his nurse which allows Solana to take unquestioned advantage of him and his possessions.
Kinsey becomes suspicious and reports Solana to an elder abuse hotline and then the real fun begins. Great book!
The premise of the book is elder abuse and fraudulent activities by the in-home health care provider. Solana, has stolen the identity of a real nurse and is scamming money and valuables from an 89 year old man (Gus) who has had a serious fall and needs daily assistance. Gus is Kinsey's neighbor though not really a friend as he is abrasive to everyone. Therefore, there isn't anyone really keeping tabs on him and his nurse which allows Solana to take unquestioned advantage of him and his possessions.
Kinsey becomes suspicious and reports Solana to an elder abuse hotline and then the real fun begins. Great book!
Elizabeth D. (LizzieD) reviewed T is for Trespass (Kinsey Millhone, Bk 20) on + 29 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 3
Great read - love this series and wish I could get my hands on them faster! Kinsey is complicated, fun, brave and seems like a friend after reading A-T.
Helpful Score: 2
To me this is the best episode that Kinsey Millhone has written. Once you start reading it, you will not be able to put it down.
Helpful Score: 2
This was one of the best in the series.
Melody B. (5ducksfans) reviewed T is for Trespass (Kinsey Millhone, Bk 20) on + 92 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
Yet another Grafton book that does not disappoint. This one was worth the wait. Those familiar with Kinsey and her landlord Henry will be pleased to know that Henry figures prominently in this book, all for the better. He has become such a beloved character it was nice to see him working with Kinsey on this case. I absolutely loved it.
Helpful Score: 2
I was a little disappointed in the ending of this book. It seemed almost as if she stuck the climax of a different book in. But I love the Kinsey Milhone books and am eagerly waiting for "U is for...", I just hope that it is up to the standard set by the rest of the series.
Helpful Score: 2
A little slow at the start but once this story gets rolling it really grabs the reader. You won't be able to put it down because you'll want to see what evil comes next. This is one of Sue Grafton's best.
Helpful Score: 2
The story is told from 2 points of view, P.I. Kinsey's and Solana. Solana has preyed for years on the elderly and infirmed and is hired by the family of Kinsey's grumpy neighbor. The story has an exciting ending.
FYI...for all you Sue Grafton fans...Kinsey has a cool new car!
FYI...for all you Sue Grafton fans...Kinsey has a cool new car!
Helpful Score: 2
Other than a few anachronisms that disrupted the late '80's vibe, Grafton is back in fine form with Kinsey Millhone getting dragged into a case of stolen identity and perhaps murder, when her elderly neighbor takes a tumble. Fast paced, a good read.
Patricia H. (beachcomber) reviewed T is for Trespass (Kinsey Millhone, Bk 20) on + 320 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
I am a Sue Grafton fan, but this book just didn't measure up to her other books. The story line just didn't "flow" the way her previous were written. Maybe she realizes she is getting closer to the end of the alphabet? I'm looking forward to whatever "U" may be, but "T" was a disappointment. I'm glad it was a library book so I didn't waste a credit.
Ellen C. (marathonmom) reviewed T is for Trespass (Kinsey Millhone, Bk 20) on + 25 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
Kinsey Milhone strikes again (and predictably so). I live in Southern California and likely read the same newspaper as Sue Grafton, so I think I know where her ideas came from for this novel. A neat chapter in the life of Kinsey Milhone, but not worth reading unless you've read other Sue Grafton books before this one. Sue - bring back a love interest who's not in his eighties!
Helpful Score: 1
This is one of my favorite series! Kinsey Millhone is a funny, intelligent, and loveable character. I can relate to her in many ways. I loved this book, along with the previous 19. I can't wait for the next one!
Alice H. (read-to-me-gran) reviewed T is for Trespass (Kinsey Millhone, Bk 20) on + 15 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Kinsey takes a new tact in this book, trying to solve a stolen identity that directly affects her neighbor. Grafton does her usual good job of storytelling, although I wasn't quite as spellbound as I have been in other books. Since this dealt with problems brought about by aging(and I have a 106 year old mother-in-law in my household) the story was very real to me. It deals with problems many people are confronted with. Grafton has a great talent for narrative. I recommend this one.
Helpful Score: 1
A little different from the rest of the series, the psychopath hunting down Kinsey remains just out of reach; anticipating and reacting to Kinsey's moves almost before she makes them.
This was a really great read.
This was a really great read.
Patty J. C. (theblue-greenlight) reviewed T is for Trespass (Kinsey Millhone, Bk 20) on + 66 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
I could hardly put it down!
Janet L. (proudgrandma) reviewed T is for Trespass (Kinsey Millhone, Bk 20) on + 285 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
T IS FOR TRESPASS
Kinsey Millhone's elderly neighbor, Gus Vronsky, may have been the original inspiration for the term "Grumpy Gus". A miser and a hoarder, Gus is so crotchety that after he takes a bad fall, his only living relative is anxious to find him some hired help and get back home as soon as she can.
To help, Kinsey runs a check on the applicant, Solana Rojas. Social Security, driver license, nursing certificaation: It all checks out. And it sounds like she did a good job for her former employers. So Kinsey gives her the thumbs-up; figuring Gus will be the ideal assignment for this diligent, experienced caregiver.
And the real Solana Rojas was indeed an excellent caregiver. But the woman who has stolen her identity is not, and for her, Gus will be the ideal victim...
Kinsey Millhone's elderly neighbor, Gus Vronsky, may have been the original inspiration for the term "Grumpy Gus". A miser and a hoarder, Gus is so crotchety that after he takes a bad fall, his only living relative is anxious to find him some hired help and get back home as soon as she can.
To help, Kinsey runs a check on the applicant, Solana Rojas. Social Security, driver license, nursing certificaation: It all checks out. And it sounds like she did a good job for her former employers. So Kinsey gives her the thumbs-up; figuring Gus will be the ideal assignment for this diligent, experienced caregiver.
And the real Solana Rojas was indeed an excellent caregiver. But the woman who has stolen her identity is not, and for her, Gus will be the ideal victim...
Helpful Score: 1
This is the 20th book in the Kinsey Millhone alphabet series, and after some not so great entries in the series this one was one of the best.
When Kinsey's elderly neighbor Gus, a cantankerous old man, takes a bad fall, Kinsey and her landlord Henry do all they can to help him. This includes investigating the home care nurse Gus' niece wants to hire to care for him at home. All seems okay at first, but when Kinsey begins to suspect elder abuse things go from bad to worse. As readers we know from the start that there are indeed evil deeds occurring; the fun of the book is the cat and mouse game played by Kinsey and the villainous Solana Rojas. A few side cases keep Kinsey busy also, but the main storyline is gripping in its accelerating horror in what seems like an ordinary life, and the hope that Kinsey puts the pieces together before its too late.
When Kinsey's elderly neighbor Gus, a cantankerous old man, takes a bad fall, Kinsey and her landlord Henry do all they can to help him. This includes investigating the home care nurse Gus' niece wants to hire to care for him at home. All seems okay at first, but when Kinsey begins to suspect elder abuse things go from bad to worse. As readers we know from the start that there are indeed evil deeds occurring; the fun of the book is the cat and mouse game played by Kinsey and the villainous Solana Rojas. A few side cases keep Kinsey busy also, but the main storyline is gripping in its accelerating horror in what seems like an ordinary life, and the hope that Kinsey puts the pieces together before its too late.
Helpful Score: 1
Think running a background check on a prospective employee will protect you from any undesirable effects? Think again after reading Sue Grafton's latest bestseller. Kinsey Millhone finds herself embroiled in a case that is as deadly as it is interesting to read about.
Good one!
Good one!
Beautiful copy.
In what may be her most unsettling novel to date, Sue Grafton's T is for Trespass is also her most direct confrontation with the forces of evil. Beginning slowly with the day-to-day life of a private eye, Grafton suddenly shifts from the voice of Kinsey Millhone to that of Solana Rojas, introducing readers to a chilling sociopath. Rojas is not her birth name. It is an identity she cunningly stole, an identity that gives her access to private caregiving jobs. The true horror of the novel builds with excruciating tension as the reader foresees the awfulness that lies ahead. The suspense lies in whether Millhone will realize what is happening in time to intervene.
Though set in the late eighties, T is for Trespass could not be more topical: identity theft; elder abuse; betrayal of trust; the breakdown in the institutions charged with caring for the weak and the dependent. It reveals a terrifying but all-too-real rip in the social fabric. Once again, Grafton opens up new territory with startling results.
In what may be her most unsettling novel to date, Sue Grafton's T is for Trespass is also her most direct confrontation with the forces of evil. Beginning slowly with the day-to-day life of a private eye, Grafton suddenly shifts from the voice of Kinsey Millhone to that of Solana Rojas, introducing readers to a chilling sociopath. Rojas is not her birth name. It is an identity she cunningly stole, an identity that gives her access to private caregiving jobs. The true horror of the novel builds with excruciating tension as the reader foresees the awfulness that lies ahead. The suspense lies in whether Millhone will realize what is happening in time to intervene.
Though set in the late eighties, T is for Trespass could not be more topical: identity theft; elder abuse; betrayal of trust; the breakdown in the institutions charged with caring for the weak and the dependent. It reveals a terrifying but all-too-real rip in the social fabric. Once again, Grafton opens up new territory with startling results.
I liked this one quite a lot, although Kinsey seems to be more afraid of things than she was in the beginning books. Not a complaint, it's interesting seeing how she wades into trouble anyway but then has the adrenaline rush and the shakes that 'regular" people (as opposed to the tough P.I. stereotype) would have. I liked the elder abuse plot - I remember when the whole conservator scam started getting a lot of publicity in CA and I'm sure it still goes on. That entire scenario is all too real. It was a little disconcerting to read the sections from Solana's POV, but they were suitably creepy. I also liked how Henry's girlfriend worked into the plot. The subplot with the car accident also turned out to be kind of creepy too, so it was a rough few months for Kinsey. As usual there's a big action scene at the end. Five more to go in this series.
Sherri B. (sharalsbooks) reviewed T is for Trespass (Kinsey Millhone, Bk 20) on + 259 more book reviews
The more I get to know Kinsey Millhone, the more I like her. This character is so interesting on her own, she has great strength of character and integrity and though she is flawed and makes mistakes, she doesn't let it stop her from doing the right thing, even if doing the right thing causes her problems. I also enjoy her observant outlook on the world around her. She's very intuitive and that serves her well in her day to day activities. Without her high level of perception, the outcome would have been much more horrific for the victims because the predator in this story is someone you should be able to trust. Someone you hire to care for your elderly parent, grandparent, uncle or aunt. Someone you rely on to have the needs of your loved one as their number one priority. When Kinsey's cranky neighbor, Gus Vronsky takes a fall, it doesn't take long for Kinsey and her landlord, Henry, to realize that Gus needs help. Kinsey is able to track down Gus's only living relative, a niece who lives on the other side of the country. She hires a nurse to care for Gus, but she does not realize the woman she hired is not who she thinks she is. This woman is a predator who has assumed numerous identities over the years to ingratiate herself into the homes of her elderly patients, where in addition to drugging and stealing from them, she ultimately murders them.
When Kinsey starts looking into the background of Gus's nurse, she does not anticipate how shrewd this predator is and how she manages to stay just a few steps ahead of Kinsey. I enjoyed the cat and mouse game the author illustrates as Kinsey tries to figure out Solana's plan only to have to backtrack and rethink it when Kinsey finds herself outwitted. I admired Kinsey's vigilance and determination to protect Gus, in spite of his less than nice personality. Though she was certainly not required to step in and could have very easily ignored the matter as not any of her business, I liked that Kinsey's instincts draw her into the matter so that she feels obligated to take action.
I enjoyed the whole book, but the last few chapters are what drew me in. The anxiety building suspense was a real nail-biter as Kinsey has to first rescue Gus and then deal with the retaliation from Solana. The ending was completely unexpected but well played out. I recommend this book to all fans of mystery, thriller or suspense novels, but don't start in the middle of the alphabet with this series. In order to understand the all of the character's backstory, I recommend this series be read in order.
When Kinsey starts looking into the background of Gus's nurse, she does not anticipate how shrewd this predator is and how she manages to stay just a few steps ahead of Kinsey. I enjoyed the cat and mouse game the author illustrates as Kinsey tries to figure out Solana's plan only to have to backtrack and rethink it when Kinsey finds herself outwitted. I admired Kinsey's vigilance and determination to protect Gus, in spite of his less than nice personality. Though she was certainly not required to step in and could have very easily ignored the matter as not any of her business, I liked that Kinsey's instincts draw her into the matter so that she feels obligated to take action.
I enjoyed the whole book, but the last few chapters are what drew me in. The anxiety building suspense was a real nail-biter as Kinsey has to first rescue Gus and then deal with the retaliation from Solana. The ending was completely unexpected but well played out. I recommend this book to all fans of mystery, thriller or suspense novels, but don't start in the middle of the alphabet with this series. In order to understand the all of the character's backstory, I recommend this series be read in order.
Love the Kinsey milhone character time after time
If Sue Grafton keeps up the pace with her main character, Kinsey Millhone, there won't be a main private detective to finish her last book which will be "Z" for something she will title her book. I would say this is the closet that Kinsey has come to dying in one of her books. This one gets to be a real nail biter when you think all the drama of the book is over. Grafton just gets better and better as the years go by. I wish she would finish up her alphabet while I am still alive myself!
not as much character as usual with kinsey. enjoyed
Exceptional! I found myself screaming to Kinsey, trying my best to give her advice. Trying to push her into action and quick thinking. Finally, she heard me...then I realized I was talking to her aloud in my bedroom with no one around. I had to grin as I closed another great story by my now favorite author.
Marjorie T. (avidreeder) reviewed T is for Trespass (Kinsey Millhone, Bk 20) on + 6 more book reviews
Love this author. This book is better than her recent books in the series. Got back to Kinsie basics.
Great author, great book, highly recommend this author to any reader that loves a good mystery, good laugh and good detective work. Love Kinsay Malone, wish she lived next door to me.
I have been reading this whole series in order,the books are a fast read and very enjoyable. I highly recommend the whole series.
Robin M. (robinmy) -
After an elderly neighbor falls and injures himself, Private Investigator Kinsey Millhone is hired by his niece to check the background of the nurse she has hired to take care of him. Kinsey checks out Solana Rojas' certification and interviews her previous employers. Everything checks out. But what Kinsey doesn't know is this woman is not Solana Rojas. She has stolen Solana's identity. She is a con artist who nurses the elderly while stealing their life savings. Kinsey becomes suspicious over the nurse's behavior and wonders if she missed something in her background check.
This is the twentieth book in the Alphabet Mysteries series. Usually these stories are told from Kinsey's point-of-view. In this book, there are a few chapters told by Solana. We get to know what she is thinking and exactly what she plans to do with poor old Gus. This was effective storytelling. I worried that Solana would kill Gus before Kinsey figured out what was going on.
As usual, Kinsey is also working several other cases. I found each of these cases interesting. It made for a great story overall. My rating: 4.5 Stars.
This is the twentieth book in the Alphabet Mysteries series. Usually these stories are told from Kinsey's point-of-view. In this book, there are a few chapters told by Solana. We get to know what she is thinking and exactly what she plans to do with poor old Gus. This was effective storytelling. I worried that Solana would kill Gus before Kinsey figured out what was going on.
As usual, Kinsey is also working several other cases. I found each of these cases interesting. It made for a great story overall. My rating: 4.5 Stars.
Terri G. (fastfingers) reviewed T is for Trespass (Kinsey Millhone, Bk 20) on + 73 more book reviews
Cannot wait to see when the next one will come along. Kinsey and I have become great friends.
Grafton's most intense Milhone novel to date. Kinsey's life, as well as the lives of those she loves the most, are put in danger in the letter T. For the second time (like the letter S), Grafton formats her book by flashing between Kinsey's narrative and the POV of another character. We are given a frightening glance into the inner-workings of a criminal mind. This was an excellent read. I highly recommend it!
Another wonderful Kinsey Millhone mystery: I feel like Kinsey is part of my family: I've read all of Grafton's ABC books: she's a master!
Sue Grafton.....my favorite author.....always a good read!
Jennifer S. (GoBadgers) reviewed T is for Trespass (Kinsey Millhone, Bk 20) on + 17 more book reviews
This was another great book by Sue Grafton.
Another excellent book in the series. Sad but true about people taking advantage of the old. Good book.
Disturbing does not begin to describe this book. I LOVE the Kinsey Millhone books and could not finish this-- too horrible and depressing. Based on the other reviews, maybe I should skip the middle and read the last 100 pages. If you are not familiar with this series, don't start with this one.
Maurene G. (HayabusaLvr) reviewed T is for Trespass (Kinsey Millhone, Bk 20) on + 90 more book reviews
Ugh, it was much too dark for me. Although I didn't care for the departure from the formula, where Kinsey is the only voice you hear, that didn't bother me as much as knowing that awful things were going to happen.
I read the first chapter and then skipped to the last. I wanted to know that at least there would be a happy ending. And it's fair to say the conclusion was satisfactory.
If you're compulsive enough to feel you have to read every one of these, then go for it. Otherwise, hold out for U.
I read the first chapter and then skipped to the last. I wanted to know that at least there would be a happy ending. And it's fair to say the conclusion was satisfactory.
If you're compulsive enough to feel you have to read every one of these, then go for it. Otherwise, hold out for U.
great, excellant,i love this series. cant wait till i read her next one
