The Book Was Better

Frankenstein meets The Terminator in this newest In Death installment. What if our humanity could be merged with technology? A body that won’t age, limitless strength and endurance, a database mind. Would it be worth the sacrifice? That’s the science that Eve is up against, just over 24 hours from where we last left her. When bodies and parts are discovered littered around NY, it’s up to Eve and her team to stop the mad doctor.  This one hit different. Previous editions have featured some pretty messed up mentalities, but this one might take the cake. It was everything I love about an In Death installment— the minutia of everyday cop banter, friends who are like family, plenty of delicious sarcasm, and of course, Roarke. The dramatic irony took away the element of mystery, but knowing who the bad guy was and wondering how Eve and Peabody would get there was just as fun.  Because I was blessed with an advanced copy from NetGalley, the creepy vibe was perfect for Halloween. Cons...

She survived the death of her parents. She survived a brutal attack. Can she survive again?  Arden Bowie is an up and coming author when a "fan" develops a sick obsession that leads to a traumatic assault in her own home. After nearly five years of healing and a new home in the pacific northwest, Arden is finally settled in. She has friends, family nearby, and even the blossom of a special someone in her life. But her attacker has not forgotten her and his obsession has only grown stronger. When he gets released, Arden has to decide if she will let the fear define her or take back her life.  Nora Roberts is like the Ann M. Martin of my adulthood. I typically devour her books, so I was a disappointed when this one felt a little bland for me. Maybe it's a product of how prolific she is, or that I read both her and her JD Robb alter ego, but her characters and situations are starting to feel a bit redundant. I appreciate a strong woman lead, but Arden didn't seem strong ...

How do you stop a killer when his victims are guilty? Eve is up against a physically dominating opponent, but also her own conscience in this 63rd edition. A single assailant, shattered bodies, and tight security. How is he getting in? How is he causing all this destruction, and why? As Dallas, Peabody, and the team dive into each victim, they uncover an ugly truth about a corporate behemoth and the undeniable motive in this killing spree. But who is the bigger monster here?  This might be a new series favorite of mine. It had all of the ingredients of a great "In Death" tale -- family, connection, moral grayness, loyalty...and Roarke. We got authoritative Peabody, softer Somerset, and a butt that even Eve couldn't kick. I felt a few knocks at my suspension of disbelief, but they were quickly answered. The ending was satisfying in more ways than one and the forged bonds (old and new) sang a song of found family.  Fury in Death: ★★★★★