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Book reviews for "Roberts,_Nora" sorted by average review score:

Rapture in Death
Published in Mass Market Paperback by Berkley Pub Group (October, 1996)
Authors: J. D. Robb and Nora Roberts
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Married....
This is the forth book in this really exciting series. Eve and Roarke were just married,. They are a great couple, both dynamic, strong willed and Roarke has the need to take care of Eve, which she fights all the way. The humor and progress of intimacy throughout their relationship and the series is extraordinary. This book starts on their honeymoon at one of Roarke 's Luxurious hotels off planet that he is turning into a lavish gambling resort. It is still under construction but this way other than the workers the couple had the place to themselves. A young man hangs himself and this does seem to be totally out of character for this man. When Eve and Roarke return home there are a couple suicides which seem to match this pattern. Then even one in Washington. Eve must find the connection between these suicides and prove it is actually murder. This goes deep into the brain waves and a connection to another of Roarke companies. This was really a surprise at the end and an excellent book. I highly recommend this book and all in the series. If you are new to the series start at the very beginning and you will be very pleased!

Truly Superior Entertainment
"Rapture in Death" is the 4th instalment in Robb's futuristic "In Death" series, and I am most impressed. I started reading Robb's books when I ran out of Nora Roberts books (literally, I read all the available titles) and I have NOT been disappointed. I recommend these books to anyone and everyone because the seamless mix of genres (mystery, suspense, romance, police procedure, science-fiction) means there's something in these books for all types!
In this book, newly married Lieutenant Eve Dallas of the NYPSD and billionaire Roarke are interrupted on their off-planet honeymoon by an apparent suicide. A young engineer working on Roarke's new resort (where E&R were honeymooning) seems to have come home for the day, made a noose and hung himself. However, the look on his face, one of utter rapture, disturbs Eve.
Upon Eve's return to New York, two more apparent self-terminations occur, and after being present at one of them, Eve is quite sure that these are not what they seem. Eve is thrown into the world of virtual reality and mind control, where your own mind can become someone else's weapon. Eve is determined to find the murderer responsible for these deaths, but the closer she comes to the truth, the more danger she, and Roarke, are in!
As always, Robb's mystery is thrilling and fun. Eve and Roarke's romance continues to steam up the pages. Eve and Roarke are among my favourite couples of all time - Eve's reluctant tenderness, Roarke's utter devotion to his "Darling Eve" and the mind-numbing passion and life-altering love they share make them fascinating to observe. Getting to know Eve and Roarke has been a rewarding experience; one I plan to continue until there are no more books to read! This book is fantastic. So don't hesitate, buy the entire "In Death" series today (I'm up to book #10 and still am LOVING every one) - you won't regret it!

Mind bending murder
This book is so clever! Ostensibly a murder mystery set in the year 2058 where the victims are somehow being enticed to commit suicide. However the author has written in a terrific and subtle subplot. The murders are being investigated by New York police lieutenant Eve Dallas. Only married 3 weeks Eve and her husband Roarke's relationship is tested at a fundamental level by the machinations of a mood controlling sound engineer. In the other books in the series Eve relies on Roarke's presence in order to fulfil a need as basic as good night's sleep so it is only fitting that in Rapture in Death it is Eve who gives Roarke the strength to come through their dilemma. Eve solves the murders in her usual way - by getting it wrong!! However that hasn't stopped me buying all seven books in the series and placing an order for 'Conspiracy in Death'. Nora - I think you're brilliant but I can't imagine how you cope with that sort of output!!!


Hidden Riches
Published in Mass Market Paperback by Jove Pubns (May, 1995)
Author: Nora Roberts
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My first and favorite Nora Roberts book.
I picked this book up while on vacation a few years ago. I had never heard of Nora Roberts and was not a romance fan. This story introduced me to Roberts and romance.

The plot revolves around Dora Conroy, a quirky proprietor of a small antique shop, who inadvertently interferes with the illegal shipment of some smuggled artwork and becomes the target of a ruthless and deadly businessman. Her new tenant Jed Skimmerhorn, an ex detective with the Philadelphia PD, is reluctantly attracted to Dora and feels obligated to protect her when the bad guys break into her apartment and threaten her. Add Dora's spirited family of actors and their bizarre show biz friends into the mix and you have the recipe for fun.

The story is at times humorous, often suspenseful, very romantic and always a great read. You won't want to miss this one.

mystery,& romance served up with a side order of humor.
Hidden Riches, whose setting is in the city of brotherly love, brings together Jed Skimmerhorn, a dislusioned police captain, and Dora Conway, an antique dealer. Jed, who is from a disfunctional rich family, has had it with life. He abandons the life style that has brought him nothing but heartache to move into a sparse apartment owed by Dora Conway. Though Jed fights against the physcial and mental pull toward Dora and the loving, overwhelming Conway family, he is pulled to them when Dora unwittingly stumbles into the evil world of smuggling valuable antiquties, and is noe threatening her very exsistance. Hidden Riches is a story that will draw you into the characters lifes. The hero is a strong, brooding charcter that has the good sense to admire and be drawn to a heroine who is also a strong witty character. They never let you down by acting wimpy or stupid even when danger is near and the heroine will try to get herself out of danger rather than wimp out, Bravo Nora Roberts, another excellent novel.

Hidden Riches is one of Nora's greatest treasures
Hidden Riches, set in modern-day Philadelphia, brings together Jed Skimmerhorn, a discontented police captain and Dora Conway, an antiques dealer. Captain Skimmerhorn is the new tenant in the apartment located above Dora's antique shop and across from her own living quarters. No doubt that their feeling definite attraction toward each other, Skimmerhorn fights against his feelings for Dora and the loving, overwhelming Conway family. Forces change however when he is pulled in by Dora, who unwittingly stumbles into the evil world of art and antique smuggling valuable and finds her very existence threatened. Hidden Riches is quite a suspenseful story with a love story happening along the way. Skimmerhorn, a strong, brooding man has that some demons from his past to conquer. Dora is a strong character-a woman who is independent, intelligent, beautiful, and determined. Drawn together by forces greater than themselves, they are forced to face his past and the future neither had planned for. This book is one of my favorite that Ms. Roberts' has written - strong characters, excellent setting. One of Nora Roberts' greatest stories!


True Betrayals
Published in Digital by Jove ()
Author: Nora Roberts
Amazon base price: $7.99
Average review score:

An excellent read
"True Betrayals" is a fabulous book that will definitely keep you reading. Kelsey & Gabe are great main characters, both well-developed and likeable.
Kelsey has been told for her entire life that her mother died when she was a child, but she finds out differently one day when a letter shows up from her supposedly deceased mother! After getting over the initial shock, Kelsey decides to travel to her mother's thoroughbred farm in Nothern Virginia. Kelsey has to deal with her family's strong disapproval, especially from her grandmother, but decides that she really must meet the woman who gave her life. Kelsey arrives on the farm and slowly begins to bond with her mother and the handsome man who owns the neighbouring farm, Gabe. This story is full of betrayal, sabotage, romance, and excitement. Overall, a highly enjoyable read.

Good story with interesting characters
This is the first Nora Roberts "mystery" that I have read. In the past I have read her more traditionally romantic books, and I was pleasantly surprised by this novel. There is a breadth of information and a depth of characters here that puts this above many of her other books for me. I was genuinely interested in Kelsey and Naiomi's relationship, and pleased with the way that both of them, and Kelsey's father as well, seem to learn and grow in the course of the book. The supporting characters are also good, and there is enough detail to the descrptions of the world of horse racing to make the story feel realistic.

Interestingly enough, I think the weakest character in the novel is Gabe, who seems fraught with contradictions that I think should have bothered Kelsey, given her concern for ethics and rights and wrongs. I am not disturbed by Gabe's background at all, but I am puzzled by the acceptance of him as a "gambler," which sometimes seems to feed into some of the stereotypes abotu racing that the novel seems to be trying to contradict.

Overall, I think this is a good vacation read. I enjoyed it and will look for mor eNora Roberts books from this sub-genre.

NORA ROBERTS DID IT AGAIN!
I HAVE NEVER READ A NORA ROBERTS BOOK THAT I DIDN'T LOVE AND THIS ONE WAS VERY GOOD. THE CHARACTERS WERE INTERESTING AND BELIEVABLE. THOUGH AT TIMES GABE ASSUMED ALITTLE TOO MUCH FOR MY LIKING, BUT IT TAKES ALL KINDS EVEN IN A BOOK. IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR AN ENJ0YABLE BOOK DON'T HESITATE TO PICK THIS ONE UP, ITS A GREAT READ. ALSO TRY MONTANA SKY OR RIVER'S END BOTH ARE REALLY GREAT BOOKS.


Finding the Dream
Published in Mass Market Paperback by Jove Pubns (August, 1997)
Author: Nora Roberts
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Fantastic ending to a Captivating trilogy!
"Finding the Dream" is the final instalment in Nora Roberts' "Dream" trilogy and it is just as wonderful as the previous two books. The story is touching and completely absorbing.
This book focuses on Laura Templeton, although her two "sisters of the heart" Kate and Margo play an important part in the story.
Laura has recently ended her marriage to the selfish and cruel Peter, and has been left with two young children and no self-esteem. She is too proud to use her rich family to fall back on for help with her financial problems and is determined to prove that she can make it on her own. Laura is a wonderful, sympathetic heroine with plenty of steel underneath her gentle exterior.
Bad-boy Michael Fury, a childhood friend of Laura's brother Josh, moves into the apartment above the stables while his home is being repaired after a landslide. Laura has always felt uncomfortable around this dangerously handsome man and he stirs strange and unwelcome feelings inside her. As time passes, however, Laura and Michael find it hard to deny the attraction they feel for each other. Laura is moved by how wonderful Michael is with her two daughters and begins her fall into love. Michael is concerned that he is becoming too attached to Laura and her daughters, because he feels that he isn't good enough for them and can't possibly keep them in his life.
As Michael romances Laura, he shows her feelings and desires she didn't even know she had. As their relationship grows, Laura's self-confidence returns. Michael and Laura are a wonderful couple and NR does a fabulous job of writing a realistic, touching and sexy romance.
But before Laura's dreams of love and a family with Michael can come true, Michael must accept himself and realize that Laura loves him for who he is. Because Michael's misplaced self-doubt may cause him to step back from Laura and destroy the happiness they have found.
This is an absolutely first-class book and I highly recommend the entire trilogy. In "Finding the Dream" the friendship that Laura, Margo, and Kate share continues to be the one of the very best elements and blends seamlessly with the romance. This book does a great job of wrapping up the trilogy and will leave you sated and satisfied!

Great way to end the "Dream" Trilogy
Nora Roberts really knows how to captivate a reader. Laura finding her true love could not have ended this particular trilogy any better. I enjoyed the way she had both Laura and Michael struggling to understand their feelings for each other. This book also gives you a chance to keep up with Margo and Kate's life as well. When you are through with "Finding the Dream" you feel as though these three women are now your best friends. Excellent work Ms. Roberts! Thank you

A great end to a great series
This series wasn't as good as either the Born In trilogy or the Maryland Eastern Shore trilogy, but it was great in its own right. (Which tells you just how wonderful the other trilogies are as well.)

I loved this book because it really developed not just the romance between Laura and Michael but also the family. Over the course of the novels, we've seen Laura face adultery, divorce, and the heartbreak of her children. In this novel, Ms. Roberts brings it all together and shows not only Laura learning to love again, but Michael forging father/daughter relationships with Laura's children.

Wonderful, Ms. Roberts. Simply marvelous. I can hardly wait for the next trilogy (which I hear will return us to Ireland!). No one does trilogies -- especially about families -- like Nora Roberts.


Holiday in Death
Published in Digital by Berkley ()
Authors: J. D. Robb and Nora Roberts
Amazon base price: $6.99
Average review score:

Holiday Surprise
This book on tape is a refreshing story of suspense to listen to. The narator of the story is Susan Ecicksen and her reading adds the necessary flavor to this story. The story will grab you all at once and not let you go until you get to the end of this "who done it" holiday surprise. As soon as you think that you know who did it, up pops another suspect to consider. Just who is this person in the Santa costume ringing the doorbell with a surprise package just for his true love? Don't open the door or this gift will be something to die for. Lieutenant Eve Dallas will not stop searching for the killer who is leaving clues which represent the twelve days of christmas song as well as bringing up distrubing recollections of Eve's own past of victim outrage. This book will not let you down as the next in line to this "...death in" series. Don't miss out on this holiday story, it is a must have for your cozy fireside read this season.

Holiday Suprise
I was just looking for books on the christmas holiday theme and ran across this little jem of a book on tape. This is a refreshing story of supense and mystery. As soon as you think that you know who did it, up pops another suspect to consider. Just who is this person in the Santa suit ringing the doorbell with a surprise package just for his true love? Don't open the door or this gift will be something to die for. Liutenent Eve Dallas will not stop searching for the killer who brings up disturbing recollections of her own past history of victim outrage. How interesting that the killer is leaving clues that follow the lyrics to the song of the twelve days of christmas.
I think that I will now have to read the others to this "...death in" series.

Even the Holiday Season attracts Killers....
Holiday In Death is another great addition to this thrilling series. Not only is it Eve and Roake's first Christmas together but there is a serial killer running around. A serial killer who dresses up like Santa Clause, is very neat and tidy and uses "The Twelve Days of Christmas " as his theme. The suspense in this series just keeps getting better. I never know the "who done it " until the very end. This is an excellent installment.


Born in Shame
Published in Digital by Jove ()
Author: Nora Roberts
Amazon base price: $7.50
Average review score:

A Great Read
"Born in Shame", the third and final installment of Nora Roberts' "Born In.." trilogy was a pleasant surprise. I had read other reviews saying the story was weak and did not add up to the other two, I disagree. I absolutely loved the book. It was very entertaining and full of passion.

The story begins with Shannon Bodine, the long-lost sister of Maggie and Brianna. Shannon is a successful advertisement artist, content on being single and enjoying the good things in life. Shannon's mother Amanda, on her death bed, reveals that Shannon is the illegitimate daughter of the Tommy Concannon of Galway, Ireland and that she has two sisters. On the day of her mother's funeral, Shannon discovers that her sisters hired a private detective to find her. A letter from Brianna, inviting her to visit Ireland prompts Shannon to pack her bags and discover her roots. Once in Ireland, Shannon meets with the gentle and sweet B&B owner Brianna and the fiery, hot-headed glass artist Maggie. She also meets a friend of the family, Murphy, a farmer who falls head over heals with Shannon.

There are a lot of things I enjoyed about this novel, one being the interaction between Shannon and her sisters, especially the relationship, or lack thereof, she has with Maggie. Neither one likes the other and makes no qualms of it and that makes for some very interesting scenes. I also enjoyed the love story between Shannon and Murphy, who in the previous two novels of the series has always been a shy, friendly neighbor. It's a nice change to see him as someone with a libido, and a steamy, passionate one at that. The love scenes with him and Shannon are spectacular. The only qualm I have with the novel is the underlying story of the witch and the warrior, lovers from hundreds of years ago, a story that ended tragically. Their story, coincides with that of Shannon and Murphy. I didn't see the need for the magical part of it. Overall, I enjoyed the novel and would definantely suggest. Make sure to read the other two "Born In..." novels before you venture into this one though, or you'll be lost. A Great Read!

Would have been five stars...
... for BORN IN ICE, the best book of this trilogy. That one's a lovely romance filled with the coziness and homeliness that makes a house a home and that makes relatives and friends family. I especially loved Grayson's and Brianna's trip to New York.

BORN IN FIRE was charming and funny, with a sharp, fiery heroine. I especially love Ms. Roberts' way with giving us glimpses of interesting professions -- in Maggie's case, glass-blowing. This one would rate 4-1/2 stars if Amazon enabled us to give half ratings.

BORN IN SHAME was nice and interesting, but the weakest of the series. I never understood Shannon's "need" to visit half-sisters she never knew she had or her guilt for initially telling the private detective who tracked her down that she wanted nothing to do with them. Not everyone gets choked up over the idea that strangers have had a private detective tracking you down and poking into your private family life, even despite blood ties.

I also did not see any reason for the paranormal elements to this story. It was as if Ms. Roberts felt obligated to throw some mysticism into the story because the Irish are famous for their mystical heritage.

BORN IN SHAME was good in developing the relationship between the sisters, especially Shannon and Maggie, and I did like the romance. But were I rating it on its own, it would get three stars. As I'm rating the trilogy, I give it 4-1/2. It edges out the Dream trilogy because of the strength of the first two books, but is not quite as good as the Maryland Eastern Shore trilogy.

Great ending to a great trilogy
"Born in Shame" is the final installment in NR's "Born in" trilogy. I enjoyed it very much, and found it to be well-written and intriguing.
Maggie and Brianna Concannon, now both happily married, have finally found their long-lost half-sister, Shannon Bodine. With Brinna's persistence, Shannon is talked into coming to Ireland to meet her sisters. At first Shannon is cold and distant, and does not get along with Maggie, but she finds herself drawn to this beatiful land, her sisters, and to Murphy Muldoon.
Shannon embarks on a journey of self-discovery which leads to her acceptance of a love that was meant to be. Murphy is a lovable hero, and his romance with Shannon is beautifully written.
Unlike some of the other reviewers, I really enjoyed the mystical aspects of this story. I thought that the story of doomed lovers from long ago added depth and meaning to Shannon and Murphy's relationship.
This entire trilogy was a pleasure to read, and this final book wound it up superbly. Don't miss out on any of these books, they are fabulous!


Birthright
Published in Audio CD by Brilliance Audio (31 March, 2003)
Authors: Nora Roberts and Bernadette Quigley
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Worth the Time
Though nothing can top the Reef as Roberts' best book to date, I found Birthright to be an exciting read. The characters were not quite so static as usual, although Jake could have been more well developed as Callie's ex-husband. I only wish that Roberts had written the first part of their relationship together, instead of keeping us guessing as to what actually happenend. Even flashbacks would have worked nicely. The only disappointment to this book was the ending. It was abrupt, confusing, and unsuspenseful. It seemed like Nora got tired of writing, and left us readers in the dust. I usually spend the entire book guessing "who did it?" but with Birthright that was nearly impossible, because the supporting characters were not well developed. The book had a bit too much going on at once-- an archeological dig, finding Jake, Lana's relationship, Callie's new mother, the murders-- all were a bit overwhelming. But Callie was a very real character, as was Lana, and they worked nicely. I hope Roberts continues to write "fun" books though, as this was a bit sappy. We need adventure in our lives, and we rely on Roberts to bring a little piece in. An enjoyable read, 3 1/2 stars!

She is having a great year!!!
I love Nora Roberts work and I am always amazed by the quality to the number of books she cranks out a year. I really have to say she has out done herself this year as I think this was one of her best books yet. I also felt this way about her last "In Death " installment to her mystery series written as J. D. Robb. This book was a thriller all the way though, turning the pages and not wanting to put the book down.

In a mall around Christmas time a mother rushes to her three year old son who is scared of Santa. She turns back and her three month old daughter is gone! 28 years later this mother is watching TV and she sees her daughter. DR Callie Dunbrook, who is an archeologist on a site in Maryland where this child had been taken years ago. This mother Suzanne Cullen contacts Callie and Callie knows this woman is grasping at straws because she is not adopted.

Well, Callie who snoops around, she is a digger now, finds out she was adopted. Her parents promise she was adopted in good faith. Callie is determined to get to the bottom of this black market baby stealing for everybody's peace of mind. Callie's ex husband is assigned to the same dig and he backs her all the way. But there are people who do not want Callie digging around and will even kill to stop her.

This book was very creatively written, a true Nora Roberts romantic suspense thriller. Where innocent people was tangled up in this drama and even killed along the way. This was a book you could not put down for a minute. You do not want to miss this one. I really think it was one of her best!!

Nora Roberts at her best!!
I was quick to complain over Roberts' "Three Fates" book, so I owe her enthusiastic praise for her latest, "Birthright." Roberts is at her best with this story that mingles the discovery of the remains of an ancient civilization in rural Maryland with the heroine's shocking discovery of her true identity. There's history mixed with murder, mystery, love, sex and the question of what makes us who we are. I couldn't put this book down. I loved Callie, she's a tough and tender mix of brains and beauty with a quick wit. Jake Graystone, the love of her life, is a hero any romance reader would admire. The secondary love story is well developed and fun to follow. While there is never any doubt of the outcome between the pairs of lovers, there is a good mystery that twists and turns to the very end. Thank you, Nora Roberts, for a great read.


The Perfect Neighbor (Thorndike Large Print Silhouette Series)
Published in Hardcover by Harlequin Mills & Boon (May, 2002)
Author: Nora Roberts
Amazon base price: $23.95
Average review score:

Loved It!!
I really loved this Nora Roberts book. The MacGrerors are becoming my favorite family, I only wish I was a member. I have read the whole series and I hope that Ms. Roberts plans to continue with the rest of Daniel and Anna's granchildren and even great-grandchildren. I can't wait for the next book!!!!

Hooked
Okay, so I'm a late bloomer. I've only just recently caught on to Nora Roberts' talent, A Perfect Neighbor being my first Roberts experience. I was hooked from the first sentence and continued to read until I finished a few hours later. If you want chemistry and steam and a good story to boot, not to mention endearing and unforgettable characters, this one is for you. I hope Ms. Roberts writes another story for Cybil and Preston, but if she doesn't I'll still know they belong together.

FANTASTIC! NORA, YOU'VE DONE IT AGAIN!
In THE PERFECT NEIGHBOR, Daniel MacGregor has done it again. This time he's homed in on his honorary granddaughter, Cybil, the youngest daughter of Grant and Genvieve Campbell. He's chosen Preston Quinn as her perfect match. Preston, a successful play writer seeking privacy, accepts The MacGregor's offer to stay at his apartment building, where "coincidentally" Cybil lives aswell. When Cybil and Preston meet, the mutual attraction is staggering. Preston, having been hurt in the past, is adamant about not getting involved in a relationship again, while Cybil, feels that she's not ready to settle down yet. As fate or a MacGregor would have it, Cybil and Preston fall in love despite themselves. But in order for them to be truly happy, they must first learn to trust one another with their hearts. Grant and Genvieve's cameos were absolutely great, adding even more humor and delight to this already fantastic story. I recommend this book wholeheartedly. It's another wonderful addition to the MacGregor saga. You'll love it. Trust me!


The Macgregor Brides (Wheeler Large Print Book Series (Cloth))
Published in Hardcover by Wheeler Pub (March, 2002)
Author: Nora Roberts
Amazon base price: $29.95
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Average review score:

Highly enjoyable- even for non-romance fans!
I have read a few of nora Roberts books before, but am not an avid reader of the genre. I like some romances, but find few with enough substance. I truly enjoyed reading The MacGregor Brides and plan to read the others in the series. The book is told in three vignettes each dealing with a reluctant bride. Each of the three youbg women claim that they have a career and don't need a mate. And each protest when their pushy, yet very well-meaning grandfather throws a suitable man in her path. It is formulatic, but that formula works. I enjoyed the middle story, Gwendolyn, the most. That was the most intersting; it seemed to build more of a relationship. This is a fun read- a good enough way to pass an afternoon or two!

ANOTHER WINNER!!!
God! I am so in love with the MacGregor clan! In THE MACGREGOR BRIDES, we meet Laura, Gwendolyn, and Julia. Their grandfather Daniel, "the MacGregor", has decided it's time they should wed. He has found the perfect men for them, Royce Cameron, Branson Macguire, and Callum Murdock. He manages to have them cross paths and waits for the sparks to fly. And they do fly! You just can't help but fall in love with these gorgeous men and cheer them on throughout the book. They are the perfect matches to these three incredibly stubborn women, a MacGregor trait. Also included in the story are Justin and Serena Blade, Caine and Diana MacGregor, Alan and Shelby MacGregor, Ian MacGregor, and of course, Daniel and Anna MacGregor. You'll just fall in love with this family. Also try to read THE WINNING HAND, Richard "Mac"(the oldest MacGregor grandson) and Darcy Macgregor's story, and THE MACGREGOR GROOMS, where "The MacGregor" targets his other grandsons DC, Duncan, and Ian. Trust me, you'll love them all!

Who doesn't love the MacGregors?
Classic Nora Roberts I say. Three straight romances, all conceived by the meddlesome MacGregor. I was in heaven when I read this book. In fact I pretty much plowed right through it. So to get down to basics its a fast, easy read. Don't plan on picking it up if you have to put it back down soon, because you won't be able to tear yourself away. If you love Nora Roberts, If you love romance, If you love the MacGregors read this book, buy this book, love this book.


Ceremony in Death
Published in Mass Market Paperback by Berkley Pub Group (May, 1997)
Authors: J. D. Robb and Nora Roberts
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Witchcraft should be more entertaining than this...
Eve does not believe in magic, but it seems that everyone around her does. Unfortunately, many of those that believe are ending up dead. While investigating the death of a fellow officer and his grand-daughter, Eve meets a "white" witch (Wiccan) and "black" witch (Satanist). As the bodies begin to pile up, Eve and Peabody must delve into the world of witch craft to stop the killing and bring the murderer to justice.
I gave this book three stars, because I just could not get into it. All the previous books I have read in a day or two, but it took me almost two weeks to finish this one. CEREMONY is much darker than the previous books. The suspense element is there, but it is not hard to figure out who the killer is. I like to be surprised by who the killer is, and I was not in this book.
Another thing that is starting to bother me, are the common threads throughout this series. Eve is ALWAYS cranky and banging on things. Roarke is somehow always pulled into the investigation. Eve's car and computer are always acting up on her. Maybe this is picky, but it is getting very repetitive.
I would recommend reading CEREMONY IN DEATH if you are a fan of the series, and plan to continue on with the next books. It is not as great as the rest, but all in all, not too bad. We get to learn alot more about Feeny (Eve's mentor and trainer that works as an e-detective). The relationship between Eve and Feeny is heartwarming and heartbreaking at the same time. CEREMONY is worth the read, just for that.

Jenny Bogue
...

Vivid and entertaining but not as suspenseful
In Ceremony in Death, Dallas is investigating a fellow officer who has died, to determine whether he was corrupt and whether his death was a homocide. This investigation get her involved with a satanic cult and a wiccan group. The Celtic aspects are the vehicle for Roarke's involvement this time. (In every story there's something that brings Roarke into the picture. Robb does a good job varying whether Roarke is a suspect, is involved with the suspect, or is just lending his knowledge.) The wiccan element also lets Robb broaden Peabody's character and makes Peabody more than just a trainee in this story.

The plot of "Ceremony" was not as complex as some of the other "In Death" series. We knew the villain was one of three characters, and one of those characters was obviously thrown in as a false lead. And if you've read any of Robb's series, you'd know not to assume that the obvious villain was the guilty one. In fact, I was disappointed that Dallas was thrown by the false lead. It doesn't follow her talent; she lectures Peapody in another book to not let herself form an opinion lest it cloud her judgment. Perhaps she's showing that Dallas sometimes fails to follow her own advice, but it was flimsy.

What I did like about this story was, Robb allowed us to see more of Dallas's feelings. Dallas takes a couple of potshots from close coworkers, and we get to see how deeply the comments hurt her - and we see how hard she works at keeping her emotions out of her cases. It's a good foundation for subsequent novels that keeps us from thinking Dallas is cold.

What I'm beginning to tire of are a couple of consistent details Robb throws in each book. They're getting old. Dallas's computer is always glitchy. Her car is always insulted as being a piece of junk. She always tries to keep Roarke out of her cases and he always insuniates himself in anyway. Dallas is perpetually snarly. Snarling at traffic, banging her fist on things. I get a visual picture of festering, grumpy person. There are just a few token moments of romantic and sappy feelings between Dallas and Roarke. I can't remember a single happy feeling. She begrudges every moment of leisure or personal activity - although Robb does make some of this come out humorously as insecurities on Dallas's part. She is absolutely consumed by her work and her identity as a cop. This is something that bothers me about Robb's novels as Nora Roberts. Her characters are *too* intense. I would expect a writer of Robb/Roberts's caliber to be able to make her characters different. Some should be less intense, with self doubts, etc. The last thing that is annoying - about all of Robb/Roberts's books, is the dialogue. Every character in every one of her novels has the same intense, no holds barred, balsy way of talking. Another area where she should make some variety. People don't all talk the same way.

Bottom line, an entertaining read. A different slant on crime - not so futuristic. If the little details I mentioned above don't bother you, you will enjoy reading the book. Just don't expect to be held in suspense until the last moment.

Fifth book in this exciting series!
The exciting in Death" series, continues with Ceremony in Death. Eve Dallas is investigating the death of a fellow officer to determine whether he was corrupt or whether he was murdered. The investigation involves a Satanist group and a group called the Wiccan. Roarke shows his Celtic / Irish roots more clearly as both he and Peabody know more about the Wiccan’s then eve. Peabody is really coming to be a real asset to Eve and a very interesting character in this series. Roarke gets involved in the investigation against Eve’s wish of course! This is really an excellent series. If you are a new reader start with Naked in Death at the beginning of the series you will be delighted! I recommend this book and the entire series!!


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