I love JD Robb (aka Nora Roberts) and have read each of the books in the In Death series. I actually look forward to seeing what Eve and Roarke are up to, and I enjoy keeping tabs on Mira, Nadine, Peabody and Mavis. This novel followed suit with previous offerings from Robb in that Dallas once again finds herself at the center of a series of killings. This time the killer is sending messages directly to Eve by leaving her messages on the walls at the crime scenes. Targeted are those whom the killer believes in some way have wronged Eve--and he (or she) is delivering vigilante justice.
The premise is full of potential, and for the most part Robb takes full advantage. The dialogue is pointed and direct, the infused humor is subtle and delivered with dead pan overtones and the characters stay true to personalities Robb has bestowed upon them. For some reason, however, I found the plot to lag a bit. I didn't feel that tension or suspense that generally grabs me with the series, nor did I see much development or growth in any character we've come to know. There were no revelations or epiphanies, and the climax was, for me, rather anti-climatic.
With that said, I still enjoyed the read. Robb is truly a master of the written word, and I enjoy reading just to roll through the brilliant craftsmanship. I'm not sure if that interest, however, is sustainable through any more slow-moving plots. If this is your first Robb read, don't be discouraged. Pick up an older volume in the In Death series and try again. You won't regret it. Oh, and if you know a guy who meets the Roarke criteria (gorgeous, wealthy, Irish and devoted). Please leave his address in the comments below. ;).
The premise is full of potential, and for the most part Robb takes full advantage. The dialogue is pointed and direct, the infused humor is subtle and delivered with dead pan overtones and the characters stay true to personalities Robb has bestowed upon them. For some reason, however, I found the plot to lag a bit. I didn't feel that tension or suspense that generally grabs me with the series, nor did I see much development or growth in any character we've come to know. There were no revelations or epiphanies, and the climax was, for me, rather anti-climatic.
With that said, I still enjoyed the read. Robb is truly a master of the written word, and I enjoy reading just to roll through the brilliant craftsmanship. I'm not sure if that interest, however, is sustainable through any more slow-moving plots. If this is your first Robb read, don't be discouraged. Pick up an older volume in the In Death series and try again. You won't regret it. Oh, and if you know a guy who meets the Roarke criteria (gorgeous, wealthy, Irish and devoted). Please leave his address in the comments below. ;).
