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22. The Widow - John Grisham

Links 🔗
https://jgrisham.com/the-widow
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/229004506-the-widow
https://www.supersummary.com/the-widow-grisham/summary/

After finishing the previous two Grisham books, I wanted to read the latest one that had come out, "The Widow". It was a good read, although I did struggle with it at times, as it started to be a bit too repetitive at times. But, later on, it picked up some pace again, and it had a very unexpected ending, which was a nice twist in it all.

I started a new Grisham book already, "The Innocent Man", which is a true story, not fiction. I am still in the first chapter, so can't say too much about it yet...

I checked the sites I linked, and a few others, and with the help of AI, I made a summary of the book. Spoiler-free and all that, as I don't want to ruin the book for anyone intending to read it as well.

Synopsis:

The Setup
Simon Latch is a small-town lawyer in rural Virginia whose life is slowly unraveling. He is drowning in gambling debt, his law practice is barely scraping by, and his marriage is falling apart. His luck seems to take a dramatic turn for the better when Eleanor Barnett, an eccentric 85-year-old widow, walks into his office.

The Hook
Eleanor needs a new will and claims that her late husband left her a secret, multimillion-dollar fortune. Desperate for a payday and eager to secure the most lucrative client of his career, Simon agrees to help her keep the wealth under the radar and out of the hands of her greedy stepsons.

The Turning Point
What starts as a straightforward estate planning job quickly spirals out of control. Eleanor’s story begins to show cracks, and her seemingly harmless demeanor masks a secretive and shrewd nature. When she is hospitalized after a car accident and subsequently dies under highly suspicious circumstances, the authorities believe it wasn't an accident. With his financial motives laid bare, Simon becomes the prime suspect. Facing a trial for a murder he swears he didn't commit, the struggling lawyer must race to find the real killer before he spends the rest of his life behind bars.

Review:
The Widow marks a slight departure for Grisham; while it maintains his signature courtroom drama, it functions primarily as a classic "whodunit" murder mystery.

What Works Well
• A Flawed Protagonist: Grisham excels at writing underdog, morally ambiguous lawyers. Simon Latch is highly flawed—battling gambling issues and questionable professional ethics—which makes him a compelling, if frustrating, protagonist to root for as the walls close in around him.
• Brilliant Characterization: Eleanor Barnett steals the show in the early chapters. She is introduced as a frail, clueless old woman, but the narrative masterfully peels back her layers to reveal a sharp, devious, and highly secretive character.
• High Stakes: The transition from a quiet, small-town legal procedure to a desperate, high-stakes murder investigation gives the premise an incredibly strong hook.
Areas of Critique
• Pacing Issues: Readers and critics alike note that the middle of the book suffers from narrative bloat. The story frequently stalls due to excessive internal monologues and repetitive descriptions of Simon's day-to-day struggles, slowing down the momentum heading into the courtroom scenes.
• The Final Act: Without giving anything away, the ultimate reveal has been a point of contention. Some readers found the resolution clever, while others felt it came somewhat out of left field, lacking the necessary foreshadowing in earlier chapters to make the twist feel fully earned.

The Verdict:
If you are a longtime John Grisham fan, The Widow delivers exactly what you want: a small-town setting, a deeply flawed lawyer in over his head, and a critique of the justice system. While it occasionally meanders in its pacing, the blend of a traditional legal thriller with an outright murder mystery makes it a gripping, suspenseful read.

Critics and Fans:
Based on reviews from both fans and critics, the reception for John Grisham's The Widow is notably mixed. While it retains a solid overall rating on platforms like Goodreads (around 4.08 out of 5), reader and critical feedback highlights a sharp divide between the book's strong premise and its execution.

Here is a breakdown of how the book was received:

What Fans and Critics Praised:
• A Return to Form in the Second Half: Many readers noted that once the plot shifts from estate planning to a murder investigation and subsequent trial, the book becomes a highly engaging, classic Grisham page-turner. Grisham’s signature ability to build suspense through courtroom drama and authentic legal detail was widely praised.
• Strong Characterization: Fans appreciated the realistic, grounded portrayal of the struggling small-town lawyer, Simon Latch. Additionally, the nuanced depiction of the widow, Eleanor Barnett—who transforms from a frail old woman into a sharp, secretive figure—was highlighted as brilliant.
• Thematic Depth: Critics pointed out that the novel successfully explores complex themes, such as the dangerous intersection of personal and professional lives, legal ethics under pressure, and the consequences of deception.

Common Criticisms:
• Severe Pacing Issues: The most frequent complaint among readers is that the first half of the book is overly long, dry, and repetitive. Many felt the story was bogged down by excessive internal monologues and a tedious focus on Simon's financial woes, divorce bickering, and mundane legal procedures regarding wills and business law. Several readers commented that the book could have been cut by 50 to 100 pages.
• A Divisive Ending: The final act and the ultimate reveal of the killer were major points of contention. Many readers found the ending abrupt and felt the resolution came "completely out of left field," lacking the necessary foreshadowing in earlier chapters to make the twist satisfying.
• Lack of Emotional Depth: Some readers struggled to connect with the story, finding the characters unlikable or feeling that the narrative lacked emotional resonance, leading some to abandon the book before finishing it.
In short, while The Widow eventually delivers the gripping legal thrills Grisham is known for, many readers felt that getting through the bloated, slow-burn first half was a significant chore, and the abrupt ending left some feeling cheated out of a satisfying conclusion.

Fact & Fiction

The Facts:
• Publication: The novel was officially released on October 21, 2025. It was published by Doubleday.

• Length & Formats: The hardcover edition spans 416 pages. The audiobook clocks in at 14 hours and 23 minutes. It is narrated by Michael Beck.

• A Shift in Style: Critics have noted that The Widow ventures firmly into "whodunit" murder mystery territory, blending Grisham's classic courtroom suspense with a more traditional mystery format.

• Reception: The book was a nominee for the 2025 Goodreads Choice Award in the Readers' Favorite Mystery & Thriller category.

The Fiction:
• The Protagonist: The story follows Simon Latch, a small-town lawyer based in rural Virginia. Simon is morally ambiguous and struggling with a gambling problem, a failing marriage, and financial debt.

• The Client: The catalyst for the story is Eleanor Barnett, an 85-year-old widow. She walks into Simon's office looking to draft a new will.

• The Secret: Eleanor claims that she is sitting on a hidden $20 million fortune that no one else knows about.
• The Setup: Simon, desperate for a payday, agrees to quietly help her manage her wealth under the radar. However, Eleanor is soon hospitalized following a car accident and her story begins to crack.

• The Stakes: When she dies, Simon realizes nothing is as it seems, and he finds himself facing a murder trial for a crime he swears he didn't commit. He must find the real killer to clear his name and avoid spending the rest of his life behind bars.

#Books #Reading #JohnGrisham #TheWidow

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21. The Street Lawyer - John Grisham

Links 🔗
https://jgrisham.com/the-street-lawyer/
https://www.supersummary.com/the-street-lawyer/summary/
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5351.The_Street_Lawyer

After I finished The Testament, I wanted to read another Grisham novel that I enjoyed while on vacation many years ago, The Street Lawyer. It was a bit shorter than The Testament, and a totally different topic. But, I enjoyed it nevertheless, and it was nice to read it again.

I have now started a new Grisham book that I've not read before: The Widow.

I used the mighty Duck to find info on the book, which I shared three links of at the start of this toot. And I used some AI, so that it would become a more coherent piece all together. So, it's text I found, mixed to one piece with the help of AI...

Synopsis: From Corner Office to the Streets

​The Setup
The story centers around Michael Brock, a rising star at Drake & Sweeney, a massive, prestigious, and ruthlessly efficient corporate law firm in Washington, D.C. Michael is living the quintessential fast-track life: he makes a massive salary, works soul-crushing hours, and is on the verge of making partner. However, his personal life is hollow, and his marriage is quietly falling apart.

​The Inciting Incident
Everything changes on a snowy Tuesday when a homeless man, armed with a gun and calling himself "Mister," takes Michael and several of his colleagues hostage in their plush conference room. The man isn't looking for a ransom; he is looking for answers. He wants to know about an eviction. The standoff ends tragically, but Michael is left deeply shaken. Rather than returning to his billing targets, he becomes obsessed with finding out who "Mister" really was and why he targeted their specific firm.

​The Evolution of the Story
As Michael digs into the incident, he uncovers a dirty, buried secret within his own firm—a highly questionable, lightning-fast eviction that put "Mister" and other vulnerable families out on the freezing streets. Struck by a profound crisis of conscience, Michael makes a drastic decision. He steals a confidential file containing the explosive evidence, quits his lucrative job, and walks away from his wealthy lifestyle.

​He takes a massive pay cut to join the 14th Street Legal Clinic, a rundown, underfunded operation dedicated to advocating for the city's homeless population. The narrative evolves from a fast-paced thriller into a gripping David-and-Goliath legal battle. Michael must navigate his new life on the streets, dodge the aggressive legal and criminal threats from his former powerhouse employer (who want their stolen file back), and fight for justice for those who have been cast aside by society.

​Character Evolution
​Michael Brock: Michael has one of the most drastic character arcs in Grisham's bibliography. He begins as a cynical, exhausted workaholic who views the homeless merely as obstacles on the sidewalk. Through the trauma of the hostage situation and his subsequent investigation, his worldview shatters. His evolution into a "street lawyer" isn't easy; he is constantly battling his own ingrained corporate habits, the shock of his plunging social status, and the sheer emotional weight of his new clients' lives.

​Mordecai Green: The director of the legal aid clinic. He is a towering, impassioned, and perpetually exhausted advocate for the poor. While he doesn't change drastically, he serves as Michael's mentor and moral compass, opening Michael's eyes to a world he previously ignored.

​DeVon Hardy ("Mister") & Ruby: While "Mister" is the catalyst, characters like Ruby—a young, homeless mother struggling with addiction—humanize the statistics. They evolve from being mere "cases" or "problems" in Michael's eyes to real, tragic human beings whose survival depends on the legal help they can't afford.

Fact vs. Fiction

​The Fiction
The specific characters, the Drake & Sweeney law firm, the 14th Street Legal Clinic, and the dramatic hostage situation are entirely fictional. The central legal conspiracy—the specific illegal eviction engineered by the corporate firm—is an invented plot device meant to drive the narrative and give Michael his "smoking gun."

​The Facts
Grisham heavily grounds the novel in the harsh realities of the 1990s Washington, D.C. landscape.

​The Wealth Gap: The stark contrast between the billion-dollar corporate lobbying firms and the extreme poverty occurring just blocks away on the D.C. streets is highly accurate.

​Systemic Homelessness: The book factually represents the bureaucratic nightmares, lack of shelter beds, and the cycle of poverty and addiction that trap people on the streets.

​Legal Aid Clinics: Organizations like the one depicted in the book absolutely exist. They are notoriously underfunded, overworked, and rely heavily on the passion of lawyers who take massive pay cuts to do the work.

​Tenants' Rights: The legal maneuvering around evictions, squatter's rights, and how easily vulnerable people can be legally steamrolled by wealthy developers is rooted in genuine legal and social issues.

​Review: A Thriller with a Conscience
​The Street Lawyer is one of John Grisham's most emotionally resonant novels. While it still features his signature legal maneuvering, backroom deals, and tense confrontations, it trades the traditional, glossy courtroom drama for a gritty, boots-on-the-ground exploration of poverty.

​Pacing & Tone: The book moves at a great clip. The opening hostage scene is incredibly tense and grabs you immediately. From there, it transitions into a compelling mystery and a character study. The tone is noticeably darker and more reflective than some of his other blockbusters.

​What Works: Grisham's strength here is his ability to make you care about the systemic issues without sounding overly preachy. Michael's transformation feels earned because Grisham doesn't make it easy for him—he loses his wife, his wealth, and his safety in the process. The sheer culture shock Michael experiences when dealing with his new clients is written with sharp authenticity.

​Final Verdict: It is a highly engaging, thought-provoking read. If you enjoy mysteries where the protagonist is unraveling a conspiracy, combined with a strong moral undertone and high-stakes legal jeopardy, this is an excellent choice. It makes you look at the world a little differently once you close the cover.

Verdict by critics and fans:

Critical and Fan Reception
Overall, the book received a solid, mostly positive reception, though with some mixed elements depending on what readers expected from a Grisham novel.

* The Praise: Both critics and fans highly praised the book's social commentary. Grisham was applauded for shedding light on the plight of the homeless and the bureaucratic nightmares of urban poverty. Readers frequently highlight Michael Brock's character development and the emotional weight of the story as major strong points.

* The Criticism: The main critique from both sides was the pacing. Because the book focuses heavily on Michael's personal moral crisis and ground-level advocacy, some readers found it slower than they anticipated. A few critics also felt that some of the plot elements surrounding the corporate conspiracy felt a bit predictable or unrealistic compared to the very grounded social issues.

Ratings Overview
The book secured very respectable numbers, even if they sit just a fraction of a point below his absolute biggest blockbusters.

* Goodreads: It holds an average rating of around **3.89 out of 5 stars**, drawn from well over 120,000 ratings. The vast majority of readers (nearly 70%) awarded the book either 4 or 5 stars.

* General Consensus: While it might not always make the absolute top of "Best Grisham Books" lists (which are usually dominated by his early 90s releases), it is consistently well-regarded by his core fanbase as a "thought-provoking" and "gripping" read.

Comparisons to Previous Works
Fans and literary critics frequently compared The Street Lawyer to Grisham's earlier megahits, noting both thematic similarities and distinct departures in style:

* Similarities to The Firm: The core setup drew immediate comparisons to *The Firm*. Both books feature a young, ambitious lawyer who discovers deeply buried, dark secrets within their wealthy, prestigious law firm, forcing them to abandon their high-paying careers to do the right thing.

* Thematic Ties to The Rainmaker and A Time to Kill: Critics often group The Street Lawyer with these two novels because they all share a central theme of "giving a voice to the voiceless." It shares the "underdog fighting a giant, corrupt corporation" vibe of The Rainmaker.

* A Departure in Action: The biggest point of comparison for fans was what The Street Lawyer lacked compared to his previous works: heavy courtroom drama. Readers coming straight from the intense legal showdowns of A Time to Kill or The Runaway Jury noted that The Street Lawyer is much less of a legal thriller and much more of a moral journey. It trades the fast-paced suspense of his earlier books for a slower, more character-driven narrative.

#Books #Reading #JohnGrisham

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20. The Testament - John Grisham

Links 🔗
Official author site: https://jgrisham.com/the-testament/
More info at: https://www.supersummary.com/the-testament/summary/
And at: https://newbookrecommendation.com/summary-of-the-testament-by-john-grisham-a-detailed-synopsis/

The first time I read this book, we were on vacation in Isla Margarita, a small island near Venzuela. Reading this book there, while enjoying the sun, drinks, relaxing, and warm atmosphere, it made it all a wonderful experience. When I could not decide what I wanted to read, I remembered this book, and decided to read it again.

I looked up info online (links at the start of this toot), and I used AI to edit all the info I found and wanted to share, into this little synopsis here.

The Testament by John Grisham: A Wild Ride From Boardrooms to the Jungle!

If you're looking for a classic John Grisham legal thriller that flips the script and takes you way out of the courtroom, *The Testament* is right up your alley. It's got the standard high-stakes legal drama Grisham is known for, but meshes it with a serious survival adventure. Here’s a spoiler-free rundown!

📍 The Setting
The story bounces between two wildly different worlds. On one hand, you have the plush, cutthroat corporate law offices in Washington D.C. and Virginia, filled with people in sharp suits fighting over billions. On the other hand, you have the Pantanal in Brazil—one of the largest and most remote tropical wetlands in the world. It’s untamed, sweltering, dangerous, and completely off the grid.

👥 The Main Players
* Troy Phelan: An eccentric, ruthless, and deeply unhappy 80-year-old billionaire. He despises his greedy family and is determined to go out with a bang, making sure they don't get their hands on his empire.
* Nate O'Riley: A burnt-out, high-powered Washington litigator who just can't seem to kick his personal demons. Fresh out of his fourth stint in rehab, Nate is a disgraced lawyer who's basically handed one last shot at keeping his job.
* Rachel Lane: The wild card. She’s Troy’s secret, illegitimate daughter that no one knew existed. Far from a socialite, Rachel is a deeply devout missionary living amongst an indigenous tribe deep in the Brazilian jungle.
* The Phelan Family: Troy's three ex-wives and six legitimate children. They are a chaotic, debt-ridden, money-hungry bunch who are already spending their inheritance before the ink on the will is even dry.

📖 The Plot
Troy Phelan is completely done with life. But before he takes a fatal swan dive off his high-rise balcony, he pulls a massive fast one on his terrible family. After pretending to sign a will that hands over his $11 billion fortune to his ex-wives and children, he secretly writes a hand-written will right before he dies. This final testament completely cuts his family out and leaves every single penny to Rachel Lane—a daughter nobody has ever heard of.

Naturally, all hell breaks loose. The spurned heirs immediately hire an army of lawyers to contest the will and get their hands on the cash. Meanwhile, the executor of Troy's estate needs to find Rachel to finalize things. Who do they send? Nate O'Riley. Nate is shipped off to the humid, treacherous Brazilian Pantanal to track down a woman who doesn't want to be found, kicking off a journey that will intensely test his sanity, his sobriety, and his spirit.

💡 The Moral of the Story
At its core, *The Testament* is an exploration of **greed versus spiritual wealth**. Grisham contrasts the soul-sucking, cutthroat pursuit of money in America with the simple, profound peace of living a life of purpose and faith in the jungle. It’s a powerful story about redemption, forgiveness, and figuring out what actually matters in life when the dollar signs are entirely stripped away.
If you want to hear more about how Grisham blends his signature legal drama with the remote wilderness, this brief review of The Testament offers a great breakdown of the novel's themes and premise.

Reception by critics and fans

When it dropped in 1999, The Testament stirred up some pretty interesting reactions, largely because it was a bit of a curveball compared to Grisham’s usual formula.

​What the Critics Thought
Critics were generally impressed with the bold change of scenery. Taking the plot out of a standard Southern courtroom and throwing it into the sweltering Brazilian jungle gave the book a fresh, adventurous vibe that reviewers appreciated. They praised Grisham for stepping out of his comfort zone to tackle heavier, more philosophical themes—like spiritual redemption, the ugly side of addiction, and the emptiness of corporate greed—instead of just relying on clever legal loopholes.

​However, some reviewers felt the contrast between the two settings was a little jarring. A common critique was that the greedy Phelan family back in the States felt like exaggerated, one-dimensional caricatures, especially when compared to the much more grounded, life-or-death struggles Nate was facing in the Pantanal.

​What the Fans Thought

Fans had a somewhat split, but mostly positive, reaction. To put it in perspective, the book holds a very solid rating of around 3.9 out of 5 stars on Goodreads, with well over 120,000 ratings.
​A massive chunk of the fanbase absolutely loved Nate O’Riley’s character development. Following a deeply flawed, broken protagonist as he battles his literal and figurative demons made him one of Grisham’s most compelling leads. Readers who enjoy a strong redemption story and don't mind a slower, more introspective burn usually rank The Testament near the top of their Grisham favorites.

​On the flip side, die-hard fans who came strictly for the adrenaline-pumping legal thrillers (like The Firm or A Time to Kill) were a little let down. Because so much of the book focuses on jungle survival and spirituality rather than lawsuits and trial scenes, some readers felt it dragged in places or missed that fast-paced courtroom suspense they were craving.
​Overall, it’s remembered as a really successful departure for Grisham—a major hit for those who appreciate adventure and moral depth, but perhaps a slight miss for those who just wanted to see high-powered lawyers yelling "Objection!" on the stand.

Here are a few cool behind-the-scenes tidbits and interesting facts about The Testament that make it stand out from the rest of Grisham's lineup:

The "Holographic Will" Loophole is Real: Troy Phelan's final, chaotic move—writing a completely new will by hand just moments before he dies—is based on a very real legal concept called a holographic will. In many jurisdictions, a handwritten, signed document can legally override a massive, professionally drafted, multi-million-dollar legal contract. Grisham used his real-life law background to make sure this billionaire loophole was completely sound!

The "No Courtroom" Gamble: By 1999, Grisham was the undisputed king of the courtroom thriller. The Testament was his tenth book, and deciding to largely abandon the courtroom for a jungle survival story was seen as a massive creative risk. It was a huge flex for an author at the height of his career to effectively say, "You know what? No gavels this time."

Putting the Pantanal on the Map: Before this book came out, the Brazilian Pantanal wasn't exactly a mainstream tourist destination for most of Grisham's audience. Because he described the immense, flooding wetlands and its incredible biodiversity so vividly, the book actually sparked a wave of interest in eco-tourism to that specific region.

Nate's Gritty Realism: Grisham really didn't pull any punches with Nate O'Riley's jungle trek. It’s not a glamorous Indiana Jones-style adventure; Nate gets hopelessly lost, physically battered, and even contracts a brutal case of dengue fever. It makes his physical and spiritual journey feel incredibly earned and grounded in reality.

A Personal Shift for Grisham: Many readers and critics noted that this book marked a clear shift where Grisham started openly exploring deeper themes of faith, Christian missionary work, and spiritual redemption. It was a reflection of some of his own personal beliefs, showing he was ready to write about much more than just corrupt law firms and mob money.

#Books #Reading #JohnGrisham

#BooksIn2026 – April edition

https://cynnisblog.wordpress.com/2026/05/02/booksin2026-april-edition/

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19. Stalker (Decker/Lazarus series, book 12) – Faye Kellerman

Official author site: 🔗 https://fayekellerman.net/book/stalker/
More info at: 🔗 https://www.tlbranson.com/faye-kellerman-books-in-order/
And at: 🔗 https://newbookrecommendation.com/summary-of-stalker-by-faye-kellerman-a-detailed-synopsis/

It took a while for me to finish this book. Not because it was a bad one, as I really loved it! But I'd been distracted a bit with some of my doggy books, in preparation for the coming of Koa. 🥰

I edited the first Toot of this thread, and added the newly finished one. But I forgot to share the book Toot, so I have worked on that, and I'm sharing it here now. 😊 I really enjoyed this book... And I immediately started on the next book in the series, The Forgotten.

Stalker is the 12th installment in Faye Kellerman’s long-running Peter Decker and Rina Lazarus series. If you’ve been following the journey of the LAPD detective and his wife, this one shifts the spotlight in a way that feels both personal and high-stakes.

The Core Premise:
While most books in the series focus on Peter Decker’s investigations with Rina providing moral and cultural grounding, Stalker puts their daughter, Cindy Decker, center stage.

Now an officer with the LAPD herself, Cindy finds herself in the crosshairs of an unidentified predator. The story balances two main threads:
• The Hunt: Cindy is being followed, receiving creepy packages, and realizing someone is obsessed with her.
• The Investigation: Peter, ever the protective father, has to balance his professional boundaries with his personal desperation to keep his daughter safe.

Evolution of the Series:
By the time you reach Stalker, the "Decker-Lazarus" universe has expanded significantly from the early days of The Ritual Bath.
• Family Dynamics: A major draw of this series is the realistic growth of the characters. We’ve seen Cindy grow from a young girl into a determined (and sometimes stubborn) woman. This book explores the friction that happens when a father and daughter are in the same dangerous profession.
• The Jewish Context: As with all Kellerman books, Rina’s Orthodox Jewish faith remains a cornerstone of their home life. It provides a quiet, domestic contrast to the gritty, violent world of the LAPD.
• The Tone: This entry leans more into the "psychological thriller" territory than some of the earlier procedural-heavy books. It’s less about "who did it" and more about the mounting dread of being watched.

Why It Stands Out:
• Perspective Shift: It’s refreshing to see the world through Cindy’s eyes. She’s capable but vulnerable, and her perspective on the police force is different from her father’s "old school" approach.
• Pacing: Because the threat is so personal, the tension rarely lets up. It feels more like a race against time than a standard mystery.
• Character Consistency: If you love Peter Decker, you'll see a very raw side of him here. He’s usually the calm, methodical detective, but when his "cub" is threatened, that composure starts to fray.

Stalker was a major milestone in the Decker & Lazarus series, largely because it shook up the established formula by shifting the focus to Cindy. Here is how it was received by critics and fans alike.

Critical Praise & Recognition:
The book was a commercial and critical success, further cementing Faye Kellerman’s status as a heavyweight in the mystery genre.
• Bestseller Status: It was a New York Times Bestseller, a common feat for Kellerman but particularly notable for this entry as it proved fans were willing to follow a "spin-off" protagonist like Cindy.
• Media Reviews:
◦ USA Today called it a "terrific addition to the Decker genealogy," praising how Kellerman wove various characters through a complex, high-stakes plot.
◦ People Magazine highlighted the pacing, noting that even after the "who-done-it" elements become clearer, the "how and why" keep you "frantically flipping pages."
◦ Publishers Weekly gave it a strong nod for its "complex, disturbing" narrative and its realistic portrayal of the challenges women face in a male-dominated police force.
◦ The Los Angeles Times was even more direct, calling it "one of the finest" in the series.

Reader Reactions:
On community sites like Goodreads and Amazon, the book maintains a strong rating (typically around 4/5 stars). The reactions generally fall into two camps:
• The "Pro-Cindy" Camp: Many readers found Cindy’s "rookie" perspective a breath of fresh air. They enjoyed seeing the LAPD through the eyes of someone young and Ivy League-educated who is trying to prove they aren't just riding on their father's coattails. The tension of her being stalked while trying to maintain her independence resonated deeply with fans of character-driven suspense.
• The "Purist" Camp: Some long-time fans felt a bit of "Decker-Lazarus withdrawal." Since Peter and Rina take more of a backseat (though Peter is still very involved in the investigation), a small segment of the audience missed the heavy focus on their domestic life and religious traditions that defined the earlier books.

General Consensus on Style:
Critics often point to this book as being slightly "grittier" than previous installments. While Kellerman is known for not shying away from the darkness of crime, Stalker feels more claustrophobic and psychologically intense because the threat is so close to home.

While the book didn't sweep major individual awards (like an Edgar), it is frequently cited by fans as one of the "must-reads" in the series because of the emotional development it provides for the entire Decker family.

#Books #Reading #DeckerLazarusSeries #FayeKellerman

#BooksIn2026 – March edition

https://cynnisblog.wordpress.com/2026/04/01/booksin2026-march-edition/

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18. Jupiter's Bones (Decker/Lazarus series, book 11) - Faye Kellerman

Official author site: 🔗 https://fayekellerman.net/book/jupiters-bones/
More info at: 🔗 https://www.tlbranson.com/faye-kellerman-books-in-order/
And at: 🔗 https://newbookrecommendation.com/summary-of-jupiters-bones-by-faye-kellerman-a-detailed-synopsis/

When I started this book, I struggled a bit with it. The book starts, as most of this series have started, with a kind of "intro" chapter, where some of the most important background gets told, to lead you into the series. But, this into was a bit too difficult for me, also because I was struggling with my MH at that time, so I wondered if it was me or the book. After I got through the first chapter, things were back to enjoyable for me.

I read this book a bit slower, as I also have been reading another book at times, and times got a bit busier, with visiting puppies and all that... 😊 I duckducked some info, some from the links that I shared at the start of this Toot, and I asked AI to make all I found into a more comprehensive piece of text to share here.

The Premise of Jupiter's Bones:

In this eleventh installment of the beloved series, LAPD Lieutenant Peter Decker is pulled away from the bustling streets of Los Angeles and thrust into the eerily quiet, deeply secretive world of a secluded mountain cult. The "Order of the Rings of God" is an isolated commune led by a brilliant, charismatic former astrophysicist who goes by the name Father Jupiter.

When Jupiter is found dead under highly suspicious circumstances, Decker and his team are dispatched to investigate. What initially appears to be a bizarre closed-door mystery quickly spirals into a deeply complex case. The commune's residents are fiercely loyal, deeply brainwashed, and entirely hostile to outside law enforcement. Decker must navigate a maze of fanaticism, polygamy, hidden agendas, and psychological manipulation to uncover the truth behind the leader's demise, all while dealing with a community that refuses to play by the rules of the outside world.

Character Development & Series Context:
If you've followed Decker and his wife, Rina Lazarus, through the first ten books, you know their relationship is the emotional bedrock of the series. Over the past decade of stories, readers have watched Peter transform from a hardened, somewhat cynical detective into a devout Orthodox Jewish family man, a transition profoundly inspired by his love for Rina.

In Jupiter's Bones, this established dynamic faces a fascinating thematic test:
• The Contrast of Faith: A major part of Peter’s character arc across the series is his voluntary, disciplined commitment to his faith. In this book, that structured, grounding religion is set in stark contrast to the destructive, mind-controlling fanaticism of Jupiter’s cult. Decker has to mentally and emotionally process the dark side of absolute devotion, making the internal psychological landscape of this book incredibly rich.
• The Sanctuary of Home: As always, Rina Lazarus serves as Peter's moral compass and emotional sanctuary. By this point in the series, their blended family has grown and settled. The warmth, sanity, and deep-rooted traditions of the Decker-Lazarus household provide a brilliant, necessary foil to the chilling, sterile, and dangerous environment of the mountain commune.
• Decker's Leadership: We also see Peter deeply entrenched in his role as a Lieutenant. The frustration of dealing with a completely uncooperative suspect pool pushes his investigative skills and his patience to the absolute limit, showcasing his growth as a seasoned leader who has to protect his younger detectives from the psychological toll of the case.

Ultimately, the book is as much a psychological exploration of belief, power, and human vulnerability as it is a gripping police procedural, leaning heavily on the deeply established, unwavering bond between Peter and Rina to carry the reader through the darkness.

The Reception of Jupiter's Bones:
Jupiter's Bones hit the shelves as a New York Times Bestseller and was generally met with strong praise across the board. Because it was the eleventh book in an already established series, it had the dual task of satisfying a loyal fanbase while also holding up as an engaging thriller for newcomers.

Here is how the reception broke down:

The Critics Professional reviewers were highly receptive to the novel's dark, atmospheric tension and psychological complexity.
• Praise for Suspense: People magazine famously described the book as a "mystery shrouded in skin-crawling suspense... it doesn't disappoint," a blurb that proudly made its way onto the cover.
• Thematic Depth: Critics appreciated Kellerman's ability to juxtapose the comforting, structured orthodoxy of Decker's home life with the manipulative, chaotic pseudo-science of the cult. Reviewers noted that this contrast elevated the book from a standard police procedural to a compelling, thoughtful psychological drama.

The Fans Long-time readers of the Peter Decker and Rina Lazarus series largely considered this a standout installment, though it certainly took them into darker territory than some previous books.
• The Cult Dynamic: Series loyalists enjoyed seeing Decker completely out of his element. The intense frustration of dealing with the uncooperative, brainwashed cult members made the investigation feel fresh and different from his typical LAPD gang or homicide cases.
• The Rina Factor: For fans, Rina is the heart of the franchise. Readers appreciated that her warmth and sanity were heavily utilized as a necessary, grounding antidote to the grim, sterile reality of the mountain commune.
The General Public Among casual readers and mystery lovers, the book holds up as a highly entertaining, fast-paced read.
• Consistent Ratings: On reader-driven platforms like Goodreads, Jupiter's Bones maintains a very solid rating (hovering around 3.9 out of 5 stars based on thousands of reviews), indicating that it continues to resonate well even decades after its initial 1999 release.
• The Draw of the Premise: The general public was heavily drawn in by the fascinating concept of the "Order of the Rings of God." The cult environment—complete with a brilliant but dead astrophysicist, blind fanaticism, and hidden agendas—provided a highly gripping, "trainwreck" appeal that kept casual thriller fans rapidly turning the pages.

Overall, it is widely considered one of the more psychologically intense and eerie entries in Faye Kellerman's bibliography, successfully captivating both her devoted followers and new readers alike.

#Books #Reading #FayeKellerman #JupitersBones

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17. Serpent’s Tooth (Decker/Lazarus series, book 10) - Faye Kellerman

Official author site: 🔗 https://fayekellerman.net/book/serpents-tooth/
More info at: 🔗 https://www.tlbranson.com/faye-kellerman-books-in-order/
And at: 🔗 https://newbookrecommendation.com/summary-of-serpents-tooth-by-faye-kellerman-a-detailed-synopsis/

I really enjoyed this one! I didn't go as fast as with some, but it was a good story for sure. A bit of a different setup of finding out who the bad folk(s) was/were, but not in a bad way.

I browsed the web again, copied bits about the book, and AI helped me to put it all together.

Here is a spoiler-free dive into the plot and character dynamics of Serpent's Tooth, which is the tenth book in Faye Kellerman's long-running Peter Decker and Rina Lazarus series!

The Setup: A Nightmare in L.A.
The story kicks off with a terrifying and chaotic inciting incident. It's a busy, fashionable night at a trendy Los Angeles restaurant called Estelle’s. Suddenly, a disgruntled former employee named Harlan Manz walks in with an automatic weapon and opens fire. In just minutes, thirteen people are killed and dozens more are wounded before Manz seemingly turns the gun on himself.
At first glance, it looks like an open-and-shut case of a tragic, senseless workplace rampage.

The Twist: Nothing is as it Seems
LAPD Lieutenant Peter Decker and his team are brought in to handle the horrifying aftermath. But as Decker starts looking at the forensics and piecing together the timeline, the "lone wolf" theory falls apart. The bullets came from multiple directions, meaning Manz couldn't have acted alone.
Decker realizes this wasn't just a random act of rage; it was a highly orchestrated, calculated hit masked as a mass shooting. The question then becomes: who was the actual target, and who was just collateral damage?

The Suspect and the Standoff
The investigation quickly zeroes in on a wealthy couple who were killed in the crossfire. Their deaths leave a massive, multi-million dollar estate to their daughter, Jeanine Garrison. Jeanine is a beautiful, manipulative socialite who loves power.
When Decker starts putting the heat on her, Jeanine doesn't just lawyer up—她 goes on the offensive. To derail the investigation, she slaps Decker with a bogus sexual harassment lawsuit, effectively forcing the police brass to pull him away from her. The stakes get even higher when Jeanine's brother (who was supposed to share the inheritance) is suddenly found dead of a drug overdose, leaving her with everything. Decker has to figure out how to catch a killer he isn't even allowed to go near.

Character Building (No Spoilers)
Kellerman is known for weaving intense personal drama into her police procedurals, and Serpent's Tooth pushes several of the main characters into new territory:

Peter Decker: The sheer carnage of the restaurant shooting triggers severe PTSD flashbacks to his time serving in Vietnam. It adds a heavy, psychological weight to his investigation as he tries to maintain his composure while dealing with department politics and a cunning suspect.

Cindy Decker: Peter’s adult daughter from his first marriage makes a major life choice in this book. Inspired by the events unfolding around her, she decides she wants to become a cop. This absolutely terrifies and appalls Peter, but her new ambitions end up playing a surprisingly useful role in the case.

Rina Lazarus: Peter’s Orthodox Jewish wife continues to be his moral anchor and sounding board. In this installment, she is largely navigating the tricky, sometimes tense, family dynamics between their Orthodox household and Peter's adoptive Baptist family. As always, her sharp mind ends up helping Peter connect a crucial final piece of the puzzle.

It's a really intense, multi-layered mystery that blends a gritty procedural with deep family dynamics!

Serpent’s Tooth was generally well-received, maintaining Faye Kellerman's streak as a powerhouse in the mystery genre. Since it was the tenth book in the series, it benefited from a loyal established fanbase while earning praise for trying something slightly different.

The Critical Verdict
Critics generally appreciated the book's shift toward a broader "mass-casualty" procedural rather than the more intimate, domestic mysteries the series was previously known for.
The New York Times: Legendary critic Marilyn Stasio praised the book for deviating from Kellerman's usual formula. She noted that by putting Decker in charge of a massive crime scene at a trendy eatery, Kellerman gave him a "rare chance to do some solid police work" with a broader scope.

Publishers Weekly: They called it a "page-turner" and a "standout entry." The review highlighted the "intricate plot" and "credible, multi-dimensional characters," particularly how Kellerman layered crisis upon crisis.

Kirkus Reviews: While they described it as "midlevel Kellerman," they still called the detective work "nail-biting." They specifically enjoyed the battle of wits between the Decker family and the "oh-so-charming" suspect, Jeanine Garrison.

The Public Response
For the general public, the book was a commercial success, cementing the Decker/Lazarus duo as one of the most beloved "mystery couples" in fiction.

Bestseller Status: The book quickly hit the New York Times Bestseller list, which was a testament to the series' peak popularity in the late 1990s.

Fan Sentiment: Readers on platforms like Goodreads (where it holds a solid 4.0/5 average) often cite the restaurant shooting as one of the most gripping openings in the entire series. Fans particularly enjoyed seeing Cindy Decker take a more active role and begin her own journey toward a law enforcement career.

The "Gritty" Factor: Some readers found this installment darker and more violent than previous books, which for some added a welcome "gritty peak" to the series, while others felt it was quite a heavy psychological load for Decker.

Overall, it’s remembered as a strong, pivotal entry that moved the family's story forward while delivering a high-stakes, "ripped from the headlines" style mystery.

#Books #Reading #DeckerLazarusSeries #FayeKellerman

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16. Prayers for the Dead (Decker/Lazarus series, book 9) - Faye Kellerman

Official author site: 🔗 https://fayekellerman.net/book/prayers-for-the-dead/
More info at: 🔗 https://www.tlbranson.com/faye-kellerman-books-in-order/
And at: 🔗 https://newbookrecommendation.com/summary-of-prayers-for-the-dead-by-faye-kellerman-a-detailed-synopsis/

For some reason, this book was a lot "easier" for me to read, and I enjoyed the storyline more than I did with the previous book. 😊 I really wanted to keep reading this one... 😊

I used the internet to find more info about the book, some of it from the links I shared here, and I asked AI to make another coherent synopsis for me with the info I found:

Prayers for the Dead is the ninth installment in Faye Kellerman’s long-running Peter Decker and Rina Lazarus series, originally published in 1996. It's a gripping, complex police procedural that really tests the boundaries between Decker's professional duties and his personal life.

The Plot
The story kicks off with the gruesome murder of Dr. Azor Moses Sparks, a brilliant and highly respected heart transplant surgeon, who is found slashed and shot in an alley behind an upscale restaurant. On paper, Dr. Sparks was a model citizen: a medical pioneer on the verge of a breakthrough anti-rejection drug, a pillar of his fundamentalist church, and a devoted family man with a wife and six children.

However, as LAPD Lieutenant Peter Decker begins digging into the doctor's life, that pristine image quickly shatters. Decker realizes that Sparks was a man of intense contradictions and hidden secrets. He discovers that the supposedly harmonious Sparks family is actually deeply fractured, and that the good doctor had some highly unusual hobbies, including associating with a gang of outlaw bikers. With a massive trust fund on the line, fierce professional jealousies at the hospital, and deep-seated familial resentments, Decker finds himself wading through a very long list of people who might have wanted the surgeon dead.

How the Series Evolves
Without giving away the twists of this or previous books, Prayers for the Dead marks a significant evolution in the Decker/Lazarus dynamic in a few key ways:

• Blurring the Lines: While Decker’s cases always impact his home life to some degree, this book brings the investigation uncomfortably close to home. It turns out that one of Dr. Sparks's sons—who rebelled against his father's fundamentalist views to become a Catholic priest—has a pre-existing connection and shares secrets with Decker’s wife, Rina Lazarus. This dynamic tests Decker's objectivity and introduces a new layer of tension into his marriage.

• Expanding Religious Themes: A hallmark of the entire series is its exploration of Decker's transition into Orthodox Judaism alongside Rina. This book broadens that thematic scope significantly by contrasting their faith with other religious dynamics—specifically Protestant fundamentalism and Catholicism. It explores how deeply held beliefs, or the rejection of them, can either unite a family or entirely destroy it.

• Psychological Depth: This entry is often noted for leaning heavily into the psychological torment of its characters. It forces Decker to navigate not just the physical evidence of a brutal murder, but the messy, emotional fallout of family politics, medical ethics, and religious zealotry.

Prayers for the Dead was generally met with high praise from critics and remains a solid favorite among long-time fans of the series. Because it was published in 1996, it caught Faye Kellerman at a point where she was hitting a very confident stride in her "detective/domestic" storytelling balance.

Critical Reception
Critics were particularly impressed with Kellerman's ability to weave complex religious and ethical questions into a standard police procedural.
• The Los Angeles Times Book Review called it "first-rate" and "an unusually well-written detective story."
• The Baltimore Sun went as far as to say that "no one working in the crime genre is better," highlighting the grit and realism of her writing.
• Publishers Weekly and Booklist praised the "deft and oh-so-subtle exploration of family dynamics," noting that the book was a "winner all round" for its mix of fast-paced thriller elements and the warmth of the Decker/Lazarus family life.
• It was frequently cited for its verisimilitude—the sense that the "cop talk" and the medical details were grounded in reality rather than just being genre tropes.

Fan Reception
Among the fanbase, the book holds a strong reputation (averaging around 4.02/5 on Goodreads).
• What Fans Loved: Many readers consider this one of the most "emotionally resonant" entries in the series. Fans often point to the interaction between Peter and Rina in this book as a highlight, as it forces them to navigate a conflict of interest that feels very real and high-stakes for their relationship.
• The Religious Layers: Readers who enjoy the series for its portrayal of Orthodox Judaism appreciated how this book expanded that world to include Catholic and Protestant fundamentalist perspectives, creating a "dimensionality to religious beliefs" that felt respectful but challenging.
• Common Criticisms: Some modern readers find the book a bit "dated" (specifically in its 1990s technology and certain social references). A few fans have also mentioned that the cast of characters in the Sparks family is quite large, which can occasionally make the middle section of the book feel dense or slow-moving.

Overall, it is viewed as a "must-read" for anyone following the Decker/Lazarus journey because of the way it deepens the history of the characters while delivering a genuinely shocking mystery.

#Books #Reading #DeckerLazarusSeries #FayeKellerman

#FitIn2026 – February edition

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15. Justice (Decker/Lazarus series, book 8) - Faye Kellerman

Official author site: 🔗 https://fayekellerman.net/book/justice/
More info at: 🔗 https://www.tlbranson.com/faye-kellerman-books-in-order/
And at: 🔗 https://newbookrecommendation.com/summary-of-justice-by-faye-kellerman-a-detailed-synopsis/

The first book I finished in March, Justice, by Faye Kellerman. This book was very good, with some unexpected turns! But, it somehow didn't "grip" me as much as the previous books had done. I was more distracted, I turned my attention to my puzzle again for a while. But, now I have finished the book, and I made a little start on the next one, "Prayers for the Dead".

Of course, I went through the mighty Duck again, and I used AI to put all I had found together again. Here some info, without any spoilers, about the 8th book of the Decker/Lazarus series:

If you’ve been following Peter Decker and Rina Lazarus through the first seven books, you know their lives are a unique blend of gritty LAPD detective work and the quiet, structured world of Orthodox Judaism. By this eighth installment, Justice, Faye Kellerman really starts to lean into the "growing pains" of their domestic life while throwing a particularly nasty case at Decker.

Here is the lowdown on what makes this one a standout in the series:

The Vibe: High School Noir
While many of the previous books dealt with crimes within the Jewish community or Decker’s own past, Justice takes us into the affluent, often hedonistic world of Los Angeles private schools. It feels a bit like a dark, 90s teen thriller. Think "rich kids with too much time and not enough supervision."

The Hook (No Spoilers!)
The story kicks off after a glamorous high school prom. But the party ends abruptly when a popular, beautiful teenage girl is found brutally murdered.
The Suspects: Decker quickly zeros in on a group of "golden boys"—brilliant, wealthy students who seem to think they’re untouchable.
The Conflict: These kids have high-priced lawyers and powerful parents, making Decker’s job a political minefield. He has to figure out if these teens are just arrogant or actually capable of something sociopathic.

Where Peter and Rina Are Now
By this point in the series, their marriage is solid, but the world around them is changing:
The Family Dynamic: Rina is, as always, the moral compass and the person who keeps Decker grounded when the darkness of his job starts to get to him.
The Contrast: A major theme in this book is the contrast between the values-heavy, disciplined upbringing of the Decker/Lazarus household and the permissive, "anything goes" environment of the wealthy suspects. It makes for some great internal monologue from Decker as he worries about his own kids growing up in L.A.

Why It’s a Great Read
It’s classic Kellerman. You get the procedural "whodunnit" satisfyingly mixed with the "slice of life" details of their religious observances and family meals. It’s a bit grittier than some of the earlier books, and the psychological cat-and-mouse game between Decker and the privileged teens is genuinely tense.

The reception for Justice was a bit of a "pivot point" for the series. While critics generally praised it, long-time fans had mixed feelings about some of the creative risks Faye Kellerman took in this eighth outing.

Here is how the public and critics broke it down:

What the Critics Said
The professionals generally gave it a thumbs-up, but they definitely noticed a shift in the "recipe":
More Procedural, Less Domestic: Publishers Weekly noted that this book would likely "increase her constituency" (bring in new readers) because it focused more on the gritty police work and less on the specific details of Jewish law and lore that dominated earlier books.
High-Stakes Drama: Kirkus Reviews called it "highly effective melodrama" and "fleet-footed," praising the tension even if they felt the coincidences were a bit "outrageous" at times.
The "Darker" Tone: Critics appreciated the psychological depth, especially in the depiction of the teenage antagonist, who many felt was one of Kellerman’s most charismatic and chilling villains to date.

What the Fans Said
If you look at fan hubs like Goodreads or Audible, the book maintains a solid 4 out of 5 stars, but the reviews show it’s a "love it or hate it" entry for die-hard series fans:

The "Pro" Fan View
Fast-Paced: Many readers loved that it felt more like a "thriller" and less like a "family drama."
New Perspectives: A large chunk of the book is told from a new character's POV (Terry), which fans found refreshing and emotional.
The Ending: The "surprising" and somewhat open ending sparked a lot of debate and kept people talking.

The "Con" Fan View
Missing the Family: Some fans were bummed that Marge (Decker’s partner) was on vacation and Rina was less central than usual.
Explicit Content: Some readers were caught off guard by the more explicit sexual content and "cruder" language compared to the earlier, more "wholesome" books.
"Hot Mess" Plot: A vocal minority felt the plot was a bit cluttered with too many subplots and "cliché" teen drama.

The Verdict
Overall, the public viewed Justice as the book where Kellerman "grew up" a bit—stepping away from the cozy, domestic feel of the first few novels and moving toward the darker, high-octane thrillers that would define her later work. It’s widely considered one of the most unique books in the series because it focuses so heavily on characters outside the Decker household.

#Book #Reading #FayeKellerman #DeckerLazarusSeries

#BooksIn2026 – February edition

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14. Sanctuary (Decker/Lazarus series, book 7) - Faye Kellerman

Official author site: 🔗 https://fayekellerman.net/book/sanctuary/
More info at: 🔗 https://www.tlbranson.com/faye-kellerman-books-in-order/
And at: 🔗 https://newbookrecommendation.com/summary-of-sanctuary-by-faye-kellerman-a-detailed-synopsis/

Another book in this series done. They are really well written books, and I find myself going back whenever I can, as I want to know more about story. The story is a different one, taking place partially in Israel. Which shows some of the (then current) issues there, as Faye Kellerman has described things to help with her story...

I used the mighty Duck again to find info on the book (some info coming from the links I mentioned). AI helped me to make it into a better piece.

By the time Faye Kellerman released "Sanctuary" in 1994, the Peter Decker and Rina Lazarus series had already established itself as a powerhouse in the mystery genre. If you’ve been following the first six books, you know this isn't just a "whodunit" series—it’s a deep dive into the evolving relationship between a hard-nosed LAPD detective and a devout Orthodox Jewish woman.

The Premise
In this seventh installment, the stakes shift from the typical gritty streets of Los Angeles to a much more personal and international stage. The story kicks off when an old friend of Rina’s from Israel, Honey Klein, disappears along with her husband and children.

What makes "Sanctuary" stand out is how it pulls Decker out of his comfort zone. While the previous books—like The Ritual Bath or Day of Atonement—focused heavily on the friction and fusion of Decker’s job with Rina’s religious community, this one expands the scope. Decker finds himself traveling to Israel to track down the missing family, leading him into a web involving Diamond dealers, ancient grudges, and the complexities of Israeli life.

Why It’s a Fan Favorite
The Travelogue Element: Unlike the localized settings of the earlier books, the vivid descriptions of Israel provide a fresh backdrop that tests Decker’s investigative skills in a foreign land.

Character Growth: We see Peter and Rina navigating their marriage and Peter’s continued journey into his Jewish identity. It’s less about "will they/won't they" (which defined the early books) and more about "how do we handle this together?"

The Mystery: Kellerman leans into a more "global thriller" vibe here. It’s fast-paced, but she never loses the domestic heart that makes the series so readable.

Where it Fits in the Series
If you’ve read the first six, you’ll appreciate how "Sanctuary" feels like a payoff for the character development built up since book one. If you’re jumping in here, Kellerman provides enough context that you won't be lost, but you'll definitely miss the nuance of why Decker is so protective of the life he’s built with Rina.

It’s a turning point for the series, proving that Decker and Lazarus can handle mysteries that go far beyond the borders of California.

Sanctuary (1994) is often cited as the "bridge" book of the Decker/Lazarus series. While the first six books established the foundation of their relationship and Peter’s conversion to Judaism, this seventh entry takes those elements and tests them against a much larger, more dangerous backdrop.

Here’s how it pushed the series forward:

1. Story Building: From Local to Global
Up until this point, the series was primarily a "domestic procedural." You had the grit of the LAPD clashing with the insulated world of the Orthodox Jewish community in California.

The Pivot: Sanctuary breaks that mold by sending Peter Decker to Israel. By moving the setting, Kellerman expanded the series' DNA from a standard detective mystery into an international thriller.

The Stakes: It introduced themes of historical trauma, the illegal diamond trade, and the complexities of Israeli-Arab relations. This proved the series could handle heavy political and global themes without losing its soul.

2. Character Building: Testing the Foundations
This book is a massive milestone for Peter and Rina as a couple. By book seven, the "honeymoon phase" of their marriage is settling into a partnership of equals.
Peter Decker: We see him truly grappling with his identity. In the previous books, he was a student of Judaism; in Sanctuary, he is a Jewish man in the Jewish homeland, yet he feels like an outsider. His struggle to navigate Israeli culture while using his LAPD instincts shows a more vulnerable, yet seasoned, side of his character.
Rina Lazarus: Rina steps out of her role as just a "consultant" or "love interest." Her personal history is the catalyst for the plot. The story delves into her past friendships and her deep, emotional connection to Israel, giving her more agency than in some of the earlier, L.A.-centric books.

3. Reception: Fans vs. Critics
The reception was generally very positive, though it marked a shift in who was reading the books.
Critics: Many praised Kellerman’s "vivid and authoritative" depiction of Israel. The Publishers Weekly and Kirkus reviews at the time noted that the shift in scenery breathed new life into the procedural format, calling it one of her most ambitious works.
Fans: Long-time readers loved the deeper dive into Rina’s background. However, a small subset of fans who preferred the "gritty L.A. streets" vibe found the international plot a bit of a departure. Ultimately, it’s now considered a fan-favorite because it’s the book where the "Decker/Lazarus Universe" truly feels like it has no boundaries.

#Books #Reading #DeckerLazarusSeries #FayeKellerman

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13. Grievous Sin (Decker/Lazarus series, book 6) - Faye Kellerman

Official author site: 🔗 https://fayekellerman.net/book/grievous-sin/
More info at: 🔗 https://www.tlbranson.com/faye-kellerman-books-in-order/
And at: 🔗 https://newbookrecommendation.com/summary-of-grievous-sin-by-faye-kellerman-a-detailed-synopsis/

This book felt a little different to me than the previous few, but not in a bad way. It was gripping and a real page turner (for me, at least).

I ducked 🦆 some info again, partially from the sites I linked here, and AI helped me to make all the copied bits into a better synopsis, and all that.

Grievous Sin (1993) is the sixth installment in Faye Kellerman's acclaimed Peter Decker and Rina Lazarus series. It’s a pivotal entry because it balances a high-stakes medical mystery with significant developments in the protagonists' personal lives.

The Premise
The story kicks off in the aftermath of a joyous event for Peter and Rina. While Rina is recovering at a high-end birth center/hospital, a newborn baby is kidnapped from the nursery. To make matters more complicated, the primary suspect is a nurse who has seemingly vanished into thin air.

Because the crime hits so close to home—and because Peter is already on-site—he is thrust into an investigation that involves high-society medical professionals, hidden pasts, and the desperate clock of finding a missing infant.

The Core Characters
• Peter Decker: A veteran LAPD detective. In this book, we see him juggling his professional "hard-nosed cop" persona with his role as a protective husband and father. His dual identity (his Southern Baptist upbringing vs. his conversion to Judaism) continues to be a rich source of internal dialogue.
• Rina Lazarus: Rina remains the moral and spiritual compass of the series. While she is physically sidelined for part of the book due to her recovery, her insights into human nature and her deep ties to the Orthodox Jewish community often provide Peter with the perspective he needs to solve the "why" behind a crime.
• The Ensemble: You’ll see familiar faces from the LAPD squad, including detectives like Marge Dunn, who help ground the story in the gritty reality of 1990s Los Angeles police work.
Why This Book Stands Out
What makes Grievous Sin a fan favorite is the interplay between the domestic and the dangerous. Unlike the previous books (like The Ritual Bath or Day of Atonement), which often focused on crimes within or directly impacting the Jewish community, this story bridges the gap. It takes the "domestic thriller" vibe—the vulnerability of a hospital and a new baby—and pairs it with a complex "whodunit" that explores the lengths people will go to for family and legacy.

Series Context (The First 5 Books)
By this point in the series, you’ve watched Peter and Rina’s relationship evolve from a tentative, cross-cultural attraction into a solid, religiously observant marriage.
• The Foundation: You’ve seen them navigate the culture shocks of Los Angeles and New York.
• The Growth: Peter has moved from being an outsider looking in on Rina’s world to fully embracing the lifestyle, though he still struggles with the "rules" of his new faith versus the "rules" of the street.

Grievous Sin was generally well-received, particularly by long-time fans of the series, though it faced some specific critiques regarding its pacing. Overall, it solidified Faye Kellerman’s reputation as a master of the "domestic procedural."

Professional Critical Reception
Professional critics were largely positive, focusing on Kellerman’s ability to weave personal stakes into a gritty crime narrative:
• The Baltimore Sun famously praised her during this period, stating that "No one working in the crime genre is better."
• Kirkus Reviews noted that the family scenes were a highlight, particularly the development of Peter’s daughter, Cindy, whom they compared to a modern Nancy Drew. However, they did offer a "mixed" note, suggesting that the plotting occasionally veered into melodrama, which could undercut the realism of the police work.
• Booklist and other trade publications praised the "crackling" police dialogue and the unique way the story handled the intersection of Orthodox Jewish life and secular law enforcement.

Public and Fan Reception
Among the general public and series enthusiasts, the book holds a strong rating (averaging around 4/5 stars on platforms like Goodreads). Fans typically celebrate it for:
• Emotional Resonance: Readers felt deeply invested in the kidnapping because it happened while Rina herself was in a vulnerable state.
• Character Progression: It is often cited as a favorite for those who enjoy the "family" aspect of the series, as it marks a major milestone for the Decker-Lazarus household.

The "Slow Burn" Critique
One of the most common critiques from both fans and critics was the pacing of the first act. Because the book spends a significant amount of time detailing the birth and Rina’s medical recovery before the inciting incident (the kidnapping) occurs, some felt the "mystery" took too long to get started. As seen in the narrative arc diagram above, most mysteries have a sharp "inciting incident" very early on; Grievous Sin stretches the exposition further than a typical thriller to build up the emotional stakes.

Comparison to Previous Books
Most readers found this a "step up" in terms of emotional complexity compared to False Prophet (Book 5), though some purists missed the more insular, community-focused mysteries of the very first book, The Ritual Bath.

#Reading #Books #GrievousSin #FayeKellerman #DeckerLazarusSeries

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12. False Prophet (Decker/Lazarus series, book 5) - Faye Kellerman

Official author site: 🔗 https://fayekellerman.net/book/false-prophet/
More info at: 🔗 https://www.tlbranson.com/faye-kellerman-books-in-order/
And at: 🔗 https://newbookrecommendation.com/summary-of-false-prophet-by-faye-kellerman-a-detailed-synopsis/

Another book that I quickly read through, with a surprising plot twist in the end. The mighty Duck, and some AI, have helped me to gather more info on the book and edit it to an informative piece.

If you’ve been following the journey of Peter Decker and Rina Lazarus, you know that their world is usually a delicate balance between gritty LAPD crime scenes and the quiet, traditional life they’re building together. In False Prophet (the fifth installment of the series), that balance gets tested by a case that feels uncomfortably personal.

Here is the lowdown on the plot without giving away any of the big reveals!

If you’ve been following the journey of Peter Decker and Rina Lazarus, you know that their world is usually a delicate balance between gritty LAPD crime scenes and the quiet, traditional life they’re building together. In False Prophet (the fifth installment of the series), that balance gets tested by a case that feels uncomfortably personal.
Here is the lowdown on the plot without giving away any of the big reveals!

The Setup
The story kicks off when Lilah Brecht, a high-profile, powerhouse owner of an exclusive health spa in a wealthy canyon, is brutally attacked and raped. It’s a horrific crime, but the case gets complicated fast. Lilah isn’t exactly "warm and fuzzy"—she’s a hard-edged, manipulative woman with a long list of people who might want to see her suffer.

The Decker/Lazarus Dynamic
As Peter takes the lead on the investigation, he’s still navigating his relatively new life as a practicing Jew. This book continues to weave in the domestic life he shares with Rina, showing how their relationship has matured since the events of the first four books. Rina remains his moral compass and sounding board, providing that "outside perspective" when the darkness of the job starts to cloud Peter’s judgment.

The Conflict
What makes this case a nightmare for Decker is the suspects. The primary focus falls on Lilah’s own family—specifically her sons. One of them is a charismatic, fringe-dwelling "prophet" who leads a group of devoted followers.

This sets up a fascinating clash between:
The Law: Decker’s need for evidence and justice.
Family: The twisted loyalty (and hatred) within the Romig clan.
Faith: The contrast between Rina and Peter’s sincere religious path and the manipulative, "false" spirituality of the cult leader.

Why It’s a Page-Turner
Unlike some of the previous books that focused on the streets of LA, this one feels more like a "closed-door" mystery. It’s a psychological deep dive into a very dysfunctional, very wealthy family. You get all the classic Kellerman hallmarks: authentic police procedural details, deep respect for Jewish culture, and a mystery that keeps you guessing about who is truly the victim and who is the villain.

A quick heads-up: If you’re sensitive to themes of sexual assault, this one is a bit more graphic in its description of the crime's aftermath than some of the earlier books.

False Prophet generally received a warm reception, though it’s often noted as a bit of a "pivot point" for the series. Critics and fans alike noticed a shift in tone from the previous four books.

Here is how it was viewed across the board:

What the Critics Said
The professional reviews were a bit of a mixed bag, which is common for a long-running series hitting its fifth installment.

The Praise: Library Journal was a big fan, calling it a "masterful effort" and a "great escape." They particularly liked how Kellerman handled the post-Rodney King era of Los Angeles, giving the police work a very realistic, grounded feel. New York Newsday also chimed in, calling it "absolutely absorbing."

The Critique: On the flip side, Kirkus Reviews—known for being notoriously tough—was less impressed. They felt the plot was a bit "histrionic" (overly dramatic) and that the writing leaned into "B-movie" territory. They missed the heavy focus on Jewish culture that was the hallmark of the earlier books, noting that the "Judaica takes a backseat" to the family drama in this one.

What the Public Thought
Among regular readers and longtime fans, the book holds a solid reputation (usually sitting around a 4/5 star rating on sites like Goodreads and Amazon).

The "Page-Turner" Factor: Most readers agreed it’s a fast-paced mystery. People loved the "closed-room" feel of the spa setting and the sheer messiness of the Brecht family.

The Domestic Appeal: Fans of the series generally loved seeing Peter and Rina’s relationship progress (especially with a baby on the way). For many, the "soap opera" elements of their lives are just as important as the actual crimes.

The Ending: If there was one common complaint from the public, it was the ending. Some readers felt it wrapped up a little too abruptly or didn't provide the "justice" they were hoping for, given how much they grew to dislike the villains.

The General Consensus
Most people saw False Prophet as Kellerman broadening her horizons. While the first four books focused heavily on the clash between Peter’s world and Rina’s religious community, this book proved the series could also handle a "traditional" Hollywood noir-style mystery. It’s often cited as one of the darker entries in the early series because of the family dynamics involved.

#Reading #Books #FayeKellerman #DeckerLazarusSeries

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11. Day of Atonement (Decker/Lazarus series, book 4) - Faye Kellerman

Official author site: 🔗 https://fayekellerman.net/book/day-of-atonement/
More info at: 🔗 https://www.tlbranson.com/faye-kellerman-books-in-order/
And at: 🔗 https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/104094.Day_of_Atonement

Another book that I just had to keep reading... It was quite something, if you're into these kinds of books, that is...

I did the same as I did with the previous books, and I will share what I found through the mighty Duck 🦆, compiled with the help of Gemini.

Day of Atonement isn't your average "detective walks into a crime scene" procedural. It’s the fourth book in the Peter Decker and Rina Lazarus series, and this time, the stakes are deeply personal because the "crime" happens right in the middle of what was supposed to be a peaceful honeymoon.

The Setup
Peter Decker (the tough LAPD detective) and Rina Lazarus (his brilliant, Orthodox Jewish partner) head to Brooklyn to spend the High Holy Days with Rina’s family. Peter is still adjusting to his newly discovered Jewish roots and the strict traditions of an ultra-Orthodox community. He’s looking for spiritual peace, but—because it's a Faye Kellerman novel—he finds a nightmare instead.

The Mystery
In the tight-knit, insular world of the Hasidic community, a young boy named Noam suddenly vanishes. Because this world is so private and wary of outsiders, the local police are hitting walls. Decker, being an outsider who "speaks the language" (both literally and culturally), steps in to bridge the gap.

Why It’s Compelling
• Fish Out of Water: Watching a hardened L.A. cop navigate the rigid, ancient customs of Brooklyn's religious enclaves adds a layer of tension you don't get in a standard thriller.
• The Clock is Ticking: The search for Noam takes them from the synagogues of New York to some pretty dark corners of the city.
• Relationship Goals: You get to see Peter and Rina’s dynamic evolve as they face a crisis that tests their faith and their brand-new marriage.

It’s a "domestic" thriller with a very high-stakes, atmospheric twist. If you like stories where the setting is just as much of a character as the detective, this is a great one to dive into.

To understand how Day of Atonement fits into the saga, you have to look at the massive personal transformation Peter Decker undergoes across the first three books. While each book has a self-contained mystery, the Decker/Lazarus series is famous for its long-term character "slow burn."

Here is how the narrative threads from the previous books weave into this one:

1. The Journey to Judaism
In the first book, The Ritual Bath, Decker is a hard-nosed, secular LAPD detective who meets Rina Lazarus while investigating a crime at a mikvah (a ritual bath house). Over the course of the next two books (Sacred and Profane and Milk and Honey), Decker doesn't just fall for Rina; he discovers his own Jewish heritage.
Day of Atonement is the "payoff" for that discovery. He isn't just a tourist in Brooklyn; he is a man trying to embrace a high-pressure, deeply traditional lifestyle that is entirely foreign to his "tough cop" persona in Los Angeles.

2. The Marriage Milestone
The third book, Milk and Honey, dealt heavily with the complexities of their relationship and whether a secular man and an Orthodox woman could actually make a life together. By the time Day of Atonement starts, they are officially a married couple. This book explores the "honeymoon phase" being interrupted by a nightmare, testing whether their new bond can survive a crisis in Rina’s own backyard.

3. The "Outsider" Dynamic
In the previous books, Rina was often the "guide" for Decker in California. In Day of Atonement, the roles shift slightly. They are in New York—Rina’s home turf—but the community is so insular and protective that even Rina feels the pressure of their scrutiny. Decker has to prove himself not just as a husband, but as a man worthy of their trust during a community-wide tragedy.

This book is really the bridge between their "courtship" phase and their "partnership" phase. It sets the tone for how they will work together as a team for the rest of the series.

When Day of Atonement hit the shelves in 1991, it was a bit of a "pivot" point for the series, and it sparked a mix of high praise and some classic critical nitpicking.

Here is the breakdown of how it was received:

The "Must-Read" Verdict (The Positives)
• Commercial Hit: It was a USA Today Bestseller, proving that the "Decker/Lazarus" brand was officially a powerhouse in the mystery world.
• Atmospheric Win: Critics from major outlets like the Los Angeles Times called it "tautly exciting." Readers loved the "fish out of water" aspect of Decker being stuck in a crowded Brooklyn apartment with his new in-laws—it added a layer of domestic realism and humor that most gritty police procedurals lack.
• Character Loyalty: Fans of the series were thrilled to finally see Peter and Rina married. For many, the mystery was secondary to the "soap opera" of their evolving lives and Peter’s deep dive into his biological roots.

The "Tough Critic" Take (The Negatives)
• The "Contrived" Label: Some heavy hitters like Kirkus Reviews and Publishers Weekly were a bit harsher. They felt the plot was a little "wordy" and that the coincidence of Decker finding his biological family in the middle of a kidnapping case was a bit too convenient (or "contrived").
• Pacing Issues: While some found it a page-turner, a segment of the audience felt the first half—which focuses heavily on Jewish law, tradition, and family dynamics—slowed the momentum of the actual crime investigation.

Reader Consensus
Today, the book holds a solid 3.8 to 4.0 rating on sites like Goodreads. The general vibe from the public is that it's a strong, emotional entry in the series. Even if the mystery isn't the most "unpredictable" one Kellerman has ever written, the character work is considered top-tier.

Fun Fact: This book is often cited by fans as the one that truly "fleshed out" Peter Decker's backstory, turning him from a standard tough-guy cop into a much more complex, vulnerable character.

#Reading #Books #FayeKellerman #DeckerLazarusSeries

@bookstodon
#BooksIn2026 #Bookstodon

10. Milk and Honey (Decker/Lazarus series, book 3) - Faye Kellerman

Official author site: 🔗 https://fayekellerman.net/book/milk-and-honey/
More info at: 🔗  https://www.tlbranson.com/faye-kellerman-books-in-order/
And at: 🔗https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Milk_and_Honey_(Kellerman_novel)

I could not put this book down! I read it so fast, I felt like I was driven by an unseen power... I wanted to do other things as well, but I kept coming back to reading this book.

Again, I DuckDucke--ed info about the book, and asked AI to help me make it into an informative bit about the book, like I did with the previous books this year.

"Milk and Honey" is the third installment in Faye Kellerman’s popular Peter Decker and Rina Lazarus series, and it’s a total blend of gritty police procedural and complex family drama.

The story kicks off when Detective Peter Decker finds a toddler wandering around a suburban Los Angeles neighborhood in the middle of the night. The kid is wearing pajamas soaked in blood, but she isn't hurt—meaning someone else definitely is. Decker’s investigation eventually leads him to a gruesome multi-generational crime scene at a local honey farm, and the case gets messy fast.

What Makes It Special
• The Dynamic Duo: If you’re new to the series, the heart of these books is the relationship between Peter (a tough LAPD detective) and Rina (a devout Orthodox Jewish widow). Their romance is evolving here, and Rina often provides the moral compass or unique insight Peter needs to solve cases.
• The Setting: It’s not just a city thriller; it dives into the niche world of California farming and beekeeping, which adds a unique, atmospheric texture to the mystery.
• Themes: It touches on some heavy themes—family loyalty, greed, and the ways the past can come back to haunt the present.

It’s a "page-turner" in the truest sense. You get the procedural satisfaction of watching a detective piece together a puzzle, but with enough heart to make you care about the people involved.

While the first two books—The Ritual Bath and Sacred and Profane—were heavy on the "culture clash" and the initial spark between Peter and Rina, Milk and Honey feels like the series truly finding its footing as a gritty police procedural.

Here’s how it shifts gears from the first two:

1. The Stakes Feel More Personal
In the earlier books, Peter was often the "outsider" looking into Rina’s world. In this one, the mystery is more grounded in Peter’s professional world of the LAPD, but the emotional stakes are higher. Finding a blood-stained toddler at the start of the book hits Peter (and the reader) on a much more visceral level than the mysteries in the previous installments.

2. A More Complex "B-Plot"
If the first book was about discovery and the second was about adjustment, this third book is about commitment. We see Peter and Rina navigating the very real, sometimes difficult hurdles of blending their lives. Peter is still grappling with his Jewish identity and how that fits into his high-stress job, which adds a layer of internal conflict that wasn't as polished in the first two books.

3. A Darker, More Atmospheric Tone
The "Honey" in the title isn't just a sweet metaphor; the beekeeping and farming backdrop creates a sticky, claustrophobic atmosphere. While the first book felt like a closed-door mystery in a religious community, this one feels wider in scope but darker in its exploration of family dysfunction and greed.

4. Better Balance of "Cop" and "Community"
Kellerman strikes a great balance here. You get the hard-boiled detective work (which is sharper than in book one), but it’s still deeply rooted in the themes of faith and family that make this series unique. It’s less of a "romance with a side of mystery" and more of a "heavyweight mystery with a deeply resonant relationship."

Overall, Milk and Honey was very well-received and is often cited by long-time fans as the point where the series "leveled up." It currently holds a strong 3.99/5 rating on Goodreads and a 4.0/5 on Barnes & Noble, suggesting it’s a crowd-pleaser for mystery fans.

Here is a breakdown of the public and critical reception:

1. The "Ellroy" Endorsement
One of the biggest stamps of approval came from legendary crime writer James Ellroy (L.A. Confidential), who called it "Faye Kellerman's best novel to date" and described it as "deeper, richer, and more emotionally complex" than her previous work. This helped cement her reputation not just as a niche "religious mystery" writer, but as a heavyweight in the crime genre.

2. Critics Praised the Realism
• Publishers Weekly praised the book for having an "intricate mystery" and noted that Peter Decker becomes a much more sympathetic and multi-dimensional character here.
• People Magazine highlighted the central couple, calling them "hands down, the most refreshing mystery couple around."
• Booklist enjoyed the "crackling" cop talk and the unique contrast of Decker "alternately cracking skulls and praying over a plate of kosher food."

3. The "Marmite" Factor (The Religion)
While most readers loved the deep dive into Jewish law and culture, this book is where the "religious elements" became a polarizing point for some.
• Fans love it for the educational value and the way faith complicates the characters' lives.
• Detractors sometimes find the "filler" regarding religious rituals to be a bit heavy-handed compared to a standard, fast-paced thriller.

4. Evolution of the Series
Most readers agreed that this book successfully transitioned the series from a "romance with a mystery" (which some felt the first book was) into a "hard-boiled procedural with a heart." The opening scene—a blood-stained toddler in the night—is frequently mentioned in reviews as one of the most haunting and effective hooks in 90s crime fiction.

#Books #Reading #FayeKellerman #DeckerLazarusSeries

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#BooksIn2026 #Bookstodon

9. Sacred and Profane (Decker/Lazarus series, book 2) - Faye Kellerman

Official author site: 🔗 https://fayekellerman.net/book/sacred-and-profane/
More info at: 🔗 https://www.tlbranson.com/faye-kellerman-books-in-order/
And at: 🔗 https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/104093.Sacred_and_Profane

It didn't take me too long to finish the second book in the series. I needed to relax a bit, and this book helped me a lot. I DuckDuck-ed some bits and bops and made another book review with info and all, as I have done with the previous books that I read this year.

If you’re a fan of the "opposites attract" trope but find yourself bored with the usual rom-com clichés, let me introduce you to Peter Decker and Rina Lazarus. Faye Kellerman’s Decker/Lazarus series is one of the longest-running and most beloved procedural series out there, and the second book, Sacred and Profane, is where the series really finds its heartbeat.
Here is the lowdown on why this book—and this duo—is worth your time.

The Setup: Worlds Colliding
To understand Sacred and Profane, you have to know how these two met. In the first book, The Ritual Bath, Peter Decker—a tough, slightly cynical LAPD detective—is called to investigate a crime at an Orthodox Jewish enclave. There, he meets Rina Lazarus, a young widow living a deeply traditional, religious life.

By the time we get to Sacred and Profane, the "will-they-won't-they" tension is thick enough to cut with a brisket knife. Peter is a guy who lives in a world of grit, crime, and chaos; Rina lives in a world of ancient laws, modesty, and ritual. The series isn't just a "whodunit"; it’s a "how-do-they-make-this-work?"

The Plot (No Spoilers!)
While vacationing in the mountains, Peter stumbles upon a grisly discovery: the charred remains of two teenagers. The investigation pulls him back into the dark underbelly of Los Angeles, dealing with some pretty heavy themes involving exploitation and the loss of innocence.

What makes this specific book stand out is the contrast:
• The Profane: The investigation. It’s gritty, dark, and reminds you that Decker’s job is often soul-crushing.
• The Sacred: The burgeoning relationship between Peter and Rina. As Peter gets deeper into the case, he finds himself drawn more to Rina’s world—not just to her, but to the sense of peace and order her faith provides.

Why It’s Unique?
Most crime novels have a "lonely wolf" detective who drinks too much scotch and has no home life. Kellerman flips that.
1. Cultural Immersion: You don't just read about a crime; you learn about Jewish law, holiday traditions, and the nuances of the yeshiva (religious school) world. It’s handled with such authenticity that you feel like an insider.
2. Character Growth: Peter isn't just a static character. He starts questioning his own identity and heritage, leading to a journey of self-discovery that spans dozens of books.
3. The Chemistry: The romance is a slow burn. Because of Rina’s religious boundaries (like the laws of tzniut, or modesty), their physical connection is secondary to their intellectual and emotional bond. It makes every look and conversation feel high-stakes.

Should You Read It?
If you like Michael Connelly’s Harry Bosch but wish there was more focus on family, faith, and complex relationships, this is your new favorite series. Sacred and Profane does a masterful job of balancing a "ripped-from-the-headlines" crime story with a deeply human story about two people from different planets trying to build a bridge between them.

Fun Fact: Faye Kellerman is married to Jonathan Kellerman, another titan of the mystery genre (the Alex Delaware series). They are basically the royal family of psychological thrillers and procedurals!

When Sacred and Profane hit the shelves in 1987, it had a lot of pressure on it. Its predecessor, The Ritual Bath, had just won the Macavity Award for Best First Novel, and readers were eager to see if Faye Kellerman could maintain that momentum.

Overall, the reception was overwhelmingly positive, and the book is largely credited with cementing the "Decker and Lazarus" duo as icons of the genre. Here is how the audience and critics reacted:

1. Critical Acclaim: "The Most Refreshing Couple"
Critics were immediately taken with the chemistry between Peter and Rina. People Magazine famously called them "hands down, the most refreshing mystery couple around."
• The Chicago Sun-Times praised Kellerman as a "talented writer," noting that the characters were deep and well-drawn.
• Kirkus Reviews described the book as "entertaining" and appreciated the sprawling nature of the story, though it noted the shift toward a darker tone than the first book.

2. The Fan Verdict: High Stakes and Heavy Hearts
Among fans, the book holds a solid reputation (maintaining around a 3.9/5 star average on platforms like Goodreads).
• The "Bashert" Factor: Readers were particularly invested in the romantic progression. In Jewish tradition, bashert means "destiny" or "soulmate," and fans loved watching Peter navigate the massive hurdles of Rina’s Orthodox world to prove he was her bashert.
• The Gritty Reality: While fans loved the romance, many readers noted that this book is significantly darker than the first. The plot involves violence against teenagers, which some found "soul-crushing" and "intense," though most agreed it served the purpose of highlighting the "Profane" side of the book's title.

3. A Focus on Authenticity
One of the most common pieces of feedback from the audience was appreciation for the cultural depth. Readers who knew nothing about Judaism felt they were learning something new, while Jewish readers often praised Kellerman (who is herself Orthodox) for her authentic, non-preachy portrayal of the community.

4. Minor Critiques
Not every review was glowing. Some "hard-boiled" mystery purists felt the detective work took a backseat to the relationship drama. A few readers mentioned that the mystery itself was a bit "standard" compared to the unique cultural and romantic elements that made the book stand out.

The Bottom Line: Sacred and Profane was received as a "sophomore success." It proved that the series wasn't a one-hit-wonder and that Peter and Rina had enough complexity to carry a long-running saga.

#Reading #Books #FayeKellerman #DeckerLazarusSeries #SacredAndProfane

:blahaj_gamer: Ello sweet and lovely (gaming/reading) Friendos :cyber_heart_sparkle_purple:

I've been reading a bit more the last few days. 😊 Some of you may have seen my Toot about the book I finished yesterday... 😇

It's been a weird start of the year. Bad weather keeping me home, where I dove into some books to deal with some of my troubles with the disturbance of my routine... Then, I would take care of my parents dog, Sir Barks-A-Lot™, as my mum would get surgery. But, she got an infection, dad broke a wrist, and the 1-2 weeks with Bas have been over 4 weeks now...

I had to help my folks at times, care for Bas, try to get my own appointments in, and all that... It's been stressful, and I've read less than I sometimes wanted...

I've enjoyed some reading yesterday and today. The book I'm currently reading, I started about 24 hours ago. Am at 39% now... I enjoyed the reading, it helped me relax a bit, which I needed a lot...

My AuDHD makes me jump between books and interests a lot. I can be all "into" some series at one point, and then need a 180° change the next... But, I have many books I still would like to read, so hopefully I can keep making progress.

I enjoy sharing the book toots. I hope that the info I find with the mighty Duck 🦆 is interesting enough... I try to add my own experience, and keep things spoiler free... 😊

Well, it is another busy morning today, so I best enjoy some food, put the old paper to the curb (it's collection day, but it's been raining all night), and then get ready to head to my parents with Sir Barks-A-Lot™.

I hope you all have a wonderful time! :blobcatbook: (and I hope that this weekend, I may be able to relax with some gaming, as I miss that a lot...).

:playstation: :pixy_party:

#Reading #BooksIn2026 #Kobo

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8. The Ritual Bath (Decker/Lazarus series, book 1) - Faye Kellerman

Official author site: 🔗 https://fayekellerman.net/
More info at: 🔗 https://www.tlbranson.com/faye-kellerman-books-in-order/

The first book of a series that would run for over 30 years! While on vacation in Kenya, I had gone through all my books. In the hotel's little gift shop, I bought a book by Faye Kellerman. It was one of the Decker/Lazarus series. I was unfamiliar with it, but I did enjoy the book, even though it was not the first one of the series, so I didn't understand it all as well as I could have...

I got the other books, but I never really got around to reading them all. So, now, wanting a bit of a difference from Harry Dresden, I read the first book of this serie: The Ritual Bath.

I DuckDuck-ed some info about the book, like I did with the previous books I read, so I will share that here.

The book The Ritual Bath by Faye Kellerman takes place in 1986, the same year it was published.

The story is set in a remote Orthodox Jewish community (a yeshiva) in the hills of Los Angeles, California. Because the Peter Decker and Rina Lazarus series generally follows a "real-time" chronology, the characters age and the world evolves alongside the publication of each subsequent novel.

Key Facts About the Setting
Protagonists: It marks the first meeting of LAPD detective Peter Decker and Rina Lazarus.
Context: The plot centers on a crime committed at a mikvah (a ritual bathhouse), which forces the secular Decker to navigate the insular and highly traditional world of the yeshiva community.
Chronology: By the end of the 27-book series, which concluded in 2022 with The Hunt, over 35 years of the characters' lives have been chronicled since this first installment.

The Setup: A Crime in a Hidden World
The story takes place in the hills of Los Angeles, but not the L.A. you usually see in movies. It’s set inside a secluded, ultra-orthodox Jewish community (a yeshiva).
The peace is shattered when a brutal crime is committed near the mikvah—the ritual bathhouse where women go for spiritual purification. Because the community is so insular and distrustful of outsiders, they are reluctant to involve the police, but the severity of the attack leaves them no choice.

The "Odd Couple" Detectives
The heart of the book is the chemistry between two people who come from completely different universes:
Peter Decker: He is your typical LAPD detective—gruff, cynical, and seemingly strictly secular. He walks into this religious compound like a bull in a china shop. He doesn't understand the rules, the dress codes, or why nobody will look him in the eye.
Rina Lazarus: She is a young, widowed mother who lives within the community and manages the mikvah. She is deeply devout, incredibly smart, and fierce. She becomes Decker’s reluctant guide, translating the customs and helping him navigate the silence of the witnesses.

The Vibe
The tension comes from two places:
The Mystery: Decker has to catch a predator in a place where people would rather keep secrets than talk to a cop.
The Friction: As Decker spends time with Rina, he is fascinated by her serenity and strength. Meanwhile, Rina is surprised to find herself drawn to this outsider. It is a classic "fish out of water" story where the detective has to respect the culture to solve the case.

Bottom Line: It is a solid mystery, but people really read it for the introduction of Decker and Rina, watching them navigate the awkward, intense, and respectful dance of two people from opposite worlds falling for each other.

Here is how The Ritual Bath landed when it came out in 1986:
1. It Was an Immediate Critical Darling
It didn't just slowly find an audience; it made a splash right out of the gate.
Awards: It won the Macavity Award for Best First Novel (a big deal in the mystery world) and was nominated for an Anthony Award.
The "Hook": Critics loved it because it was so different. In the mid-80s, police procedurals were often gritty, cynical, and full of "hard-boiled" loners. Suddenly, here was a book about a sensitive romance, religious theology, and a respectful look at a community (Orthodox Judaism) that mainstream fiction rarely touched.

2. It Created a New "Niche"
Before this book, "religious mystery" wasn't really a mainstream sub-genre. Faye Kellerman is often credited with proving that you could mix theology with thrillers.
Readers were fascinated by the "insider look" at the Yeshiva world. It landed not just as a mystery, but as a way for secular readers to learn about a private culture in a non-textbook way.

3. The Series Factor
The chemistry between Decker and Rina was so strong that people immediately demanded more. It wasn't just a "one-off" hit; it launched a massive franchise.
Fun Fact: Faye Kellerman is married to Jonathan Kellerman (another huge bestselling mystery author, famous for the Alex Delaware series). They became a sort of "power couple" of the mystery world in the late 80s and 90s, which definitely helped keep the books in the public eye.

The Verdict: It was a breakout hit that turned into a 30+ year juggernaut. You are reading the start of what became a New York Times bestselling legacy.

#Reading #FayeKellerman #DeckerLazarusSeries #TheRitualBath #Books

#BooksIn2026 – January edition

https://cynnisblog.wordpress.com/2026/02/02/booksin2026-january-edition/

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7. Grave Peril (the Dresden Files, book 3) - Jim Butcher

🔗 to the Fandom wiki page: https://dresdenfiles.fandom.com/wiki/Grave_Peril

The third book in the Dresed Files series, which has just seen the release of book 18 on January 20 2026. I've never read them all... I have several in paperback versions, and I think I have read the first 5... 🤔 But due to brain fogs, I can't really recall... 😔 So, after I chatted with a sweet friend about the series, I converted my old epubs to kepubs, for better support, and I started reading the series again, from the start.

Most reviews I have seen in this series say that, after book 3, things changed a bit in the way the stories were being told... So, I guess I'll find out, as I start book 4, Summer Knight. :blobcatbook:

Some info found online:

The Story: "Grave Peril"
​In this third installment, the world of Harry Dresden expands from urban detective work into high-stakes supernatural politics.

​The Hook: The spirit world in Chicago has "gone postal". Ghosts are appearing with much more regularity than they should and are becoming increasingly violent and deadly.

​The Stakes: Harry teams up with Michael Carpenter, a Knight of the Cross, to investigate a ghost haunting newborns at a hospital. Soon, Harry finds himself invited to a reception hosted by Bianca, a powerful Red Court vampire, where a simple invitation turns out to be a deadly trap.

​The Vibe: This book leans more heavily into horror and high fantasy. It moves away from pure crime investigation as Harry deals with vengeful spirits and ancient vampire courts.

​The Series: The Great Turning Point
​Most fans and critics consider "Grave Peril" the point where the series truly begins its "epic" arc.

​World Building: The story explores the "Nevernever" (the spirit world) more deeply and introduces the complex politics of different vampire courts.

​Lasting Consequences: Unlike the first two books, which were largely self-contained, the events of this novel set off a massive global conflict that ripples through the rest of the 17-book series.

​Expanding Cast: This book introduces Michael Carpenter, a fan-favorite character who wields a magical blade and serves as a moral anchor for Harry.

​Fun Fact: This is the first cover where the "Harry’s hat" trend became a permanent fixture of the series' branding, despite Harry famously hating hats in the actual text.

Onwards with Summer Knight!

#Reading #Books #TheDresdenFiles #JimButcher

@bookstodon
#BooksIn2026 #Bookstodon

7. Grave Peril (the Dresden Files, book 3) - Jim Butcher

🔗 to the Fandom wiki page: https://dresdenfiles.fandom.com/wiki/Grave_Peril

The third book in the Dresed Files series, which has just seen the release of book 18 on January 20 2026. I've never read them all... I have several in paperback versions, and I think I have read the first 5... 🤔 But due to brain fogs, I can't really recall... 😔 So, after I chatted with a sweet friend about the series, I converted my old epubs to kepubs, for better support, and I started reading the series again, from the start.

Most reviews I have seen in this series say that, after book 3, things changed a bit in the way the stories were being told... So, I guess I'll find out, as I start book 4, Summer Knight. :blobcatbook:

Some info found online:

The Story: "Grave Peril"
​In this third installment, the world of Harry Dresden expands from urban detective work into high-stakes supernatural politics.

​The Hook: The spirit world in Chicago has "gone postal". Ghosts are appearing with much more regularity than they should and are becoming increasingly violent and deadly.

​The Stakes: Harry teams up with Michael Carpenter, a Knight of the Cross, to investigate a ghost haunting newborns at a hospital. Soon, Harry finds himself invited to a reception hosted by Bianca, a powerful Red Court vampire, where a simple invitation turns out to be a deadly trap.

​The Vibe: This book leans more heavily into horror and high fantasy. It moves away from pure crime investigation as Harry deals with vengeful spirits and ancient vampire courts.

​The Series: The Great Turning Point
​Most fans and critics consider "Grave Peril" the point where the series truly begins its "epic" arc.

​World Building: The story explores the "Nevernever" (the spirit world) more deeply and introduces the complex politics of different vampire courts.

​Lasting Consequences: Unlike the first two books, which were largely self-contained, the events of this novel set off a massive global conflict that ripples through the rest of the 17-book series.

​Expanding Cast: This book introduces Michael Carpenter, a fan-favorite character who wields a magical blade and serves as a moral anchor for Harry.

​Fun Fact: This is the first cover where the "Harry’s hat" trend became a permanent fixture of the series' branding, despite Harry famously hating hats in the actual text.

Onwards with Summer Knight!

#Reading #Books #TheDresdenFiles #JimButcher

:blahaj_gamer: Ello sweet and lovely (gaming) Friendos :cyber_heart_sparkle_purple:

I almost finished 7 books this month! I was "just" 16 minutes away, according to my Kobo, from finishing book 7... So that will be the first book for February, 😉.

I took a few simple pictures of some of my signed books tonight. I will boost the toots, but I'll share the links in this post as well.

🔗 George Takei : https://vernissage.photos/@PixysJourney/7601663179831118195

🔗 Anton Strout:
https://vernissage.photos/@PixysJourney/7601665709566855539

🔗 Amber Benson:
https://vernissage.photos/@PixysJourney/7601667586467565939

🔗 Amber Benson & Christopher Golden:
https://vernissage.photos/@PixysJourney/7601669467663241587

Next Monday, my blog post will go "live", with all the #BooksIn2026 toots for January.

I hope you're all having a great weekend folks! Catch you all later!

:playstation: :pixy_party:

#Bookstagram #Bookstodon #Books #Collection #Reading

:kirby_prideheart: Ello sweet and lovely Friendos :purple_heart_sparkle:

#GoodNight and #TZAG everyone :darkmodeparrot:

Hope that your weekends have started properly, and are enjoyable!

I've managed to get a few small chores done. Heck, I even managed a proper meal this time. 😊 Bas and I visited the Herperduin with a good friend and her dog, and I think it's safe to say that it was enjoyable for all! Although Bas was doing his Dachshund thing again, going all the ways but the right one! 😂

I shared a few snaps on Vernissage. I just boosted the posts, but I'll share the links here, just in case. 😉
https://vernissage.photos/@PixysJourney/7601646317789516578
https://vernissage.photos/@PixysJourney/7601646962034608930

Currently riding the bike a bit. Then, onwards to the rower. My back isn't too happy with me, so I hope I can get some rowing in without too much hassle.

I almost managed to finish 7 books this month! I was so close to the last one, I think my Kobo says I have about 20 minutes to go... So I guess that will be my first book for February. I shared my toots about the books on my PlaystationPixy account, with the tag #BooksIn2026. And this Monday, my toots are going "live" in the first monthly blog post about the books I read. It's mostly the toots, copied into a WordPress post, but I think it looked good, and it was an easy way to document and share it, without it costing too many spoons.

Tonight, I'll work on my blog again for a while. And, of course, have some walks with Bas. 😊 Mum wasn't feeling very well today, almost yesterday, so I hope that she will feel better soon. I don't mind helping out with Bas, as he's a cutie... 😊 But I do miss being able to leave the house without issues, like to get groceries, or... Visit the gym! I know I have three simple cardio machines, but it's just not the same as visiting the gym... 😊

Have a good time everyone! I'll catch you later! 😁

Thanks to all for your kindness and support during my "journey through daily life" :bear_love: I really appreciate it 💜 as it helps me to keep going on bad/harder days! :bear_nuzzle:

:pixy_party: 💜 🍀 🐾

#PixysJourney

@bookstodon
#BooksIn2026 #Bookstodon

6. Fool Moon (the Dresden Files, book 2) - Jim Butcher

Link 🔗 to the Fandom wiki page: https://dresdenfiles.fandom.com/wiki/Fool_Moon

The second book is all about werewolves, all sorts, shapes and sizes... It was a good read, although it took me a little longer due to having less time to read, unfortunately. But, it was a good read, even though I've read it before (albeit a long time ago!).

Some info found online:

After the introduction to the world of Harry Dresden in "Storm Front", , "Fool Moon" is where things start to get a lot hairier—literally. This second installment dives deeper into the supernatural underbelly of Chicago.

The Story: "Fool Moon"
While the first book dealt with a rogue sorcerer, this novel pivots into the world of lycanthropy.

The Hook: A series of exceptionally brutal murders occurs during the full moon. The bodies are so badly mangled that the police initially suspect escaped zoo animals, but the nature of the wounds points to something much more ancient and hungry.

The Stakes: Harry is once again caught between a rock and a hard place. The police are under pressure to solve the case, a group of "Wolf-Slayers" has arrived in town looking for trouble, and Harry discovers that there isn't just one type of werewolf—there are several, and some are much harder to kill than others.

The Vibe: This book leans more into the "horror" side of urban fantasy. It’s faster-paced than the first, with a heavy emphasis on the physical danger Harry faces when his magic isn't enough to stop a 400-pound predator.

The Series: Expanding the World
Jim Butcher uses this book to show that the supernatural world is far more complex than just "wizards and monsters."

The Lore: You learn that the "Nevernever" (the spirit world) is connected to our reality and that various supernatural entities have their own laws and territories within Chicago.

Character Growth: This is where we see Harry’s relationship with the police department, specifically Lieutenant Karrin Murphy, start to experience real friction. As the "weird" cases pile up, the secrecy of the magical world becomes harder for Harry to maintain without losing the trust of his friends.

Escalation: If Storm Front proved Harry could survive a magical duel, Fool Moon proves he can survive a war. It sets the stage for the massive power shifts that define the later books in the series.

The "Hat" Update: Just like the first cover, Harry is wearing a hat here. In the text of this book, he actually spends a fair amount of time complaining about how much he dislikes wearing headwear!

Next up on the Dresden Files: Grave Peril!

#Books #Reading #JimButcher #TheDresdenFiles

@bookstodon
#BooksIn2026 #Bookstodon

6. Fool Moon (the Dresden Files, book 2) - Jim Butcher

Link 🔗 to the Fandom wiki page: https://dresdenfiles.fandom.com/wiki/Fool_Moon

The second book is all about werewolves, all sorts, shapes and sizes... It was a good read, although it took me a little longer due to having less time to read, unfortunately. But, it was a good read, even though I've read it before (albeit a long time ago!).

Some info found online:

After the introduction to the world of Harry Dresden in "Storm Front", , "Fool Moon" is where things start to get a lot hairier—literally. This second installment dives deeper into the supernatural underbelly of Chicago.

The Story: "Fool Moon"
While the first book dealt with a rogue sorcerer, this novel pivots into the world of lycanthropy.

The Hook: A series of exceptionally brutal murders occurs during the full moon. The bodies are so badly mangled that the police initially suspect escaped zoo animals, but the nature of the wounds points to something much more ancient and hungry.

The Stakes: Harry is once again caught between a rock and a hard place. The police are under pressure to solve the case, a group of "Wolf-Slayers" has arrived in town looking for trouble, and Harry discovers that there isn't just one type of werewolf—there are several, and some are much harder to kill than others.

The Vibe: This book leans more into the "horror" side of urban fantasy. It’s faster-paced than the first, with a heavy emphasis on the physical danger Harry faces when his magic isn't enough to stop a 400-pound predator.

The Series: Expanding the World
Jim Butcher uses this book to show that the supernatural world is far more complex than just "wizards and monsters."

The Lore: You learn that the "Nevernever" (the spirit world) is connected to our reality and that various supernatural entities have their own laws and territories within Chicago.

Character Growth: This is where we see Harry’s relationship with the police department, specifically Lieutenant Karrin Murphy, start to experience real friction. As the "weird" cases pile up, the secrecy of the magical world becomes harder for Harry to maintain without losing the trust of his friends.

Escalation: If Storm Front proved Harry could survive a magical duel, Fool Moon proves he can survive a war. It sets the stage for the massive power shifts that define the later books in the series.

The "Hat" Update: Just like the first cover, Harry is wearing a hat here. In the text of this book, he actually spends a fair amount of time complaining about how much he dislikes wearing headwear!

Next up on the Dresden Files: Grave Peril!

#Books #Reading #JimButcher #TheDresdenFiles

@bookstodon
#BooksIn2026 #Bookstodon

5. Storm Front (The Dresden Files 1) - Jim Butcher

Link 🔗 to the Fandom wiki page:
https://dresdenfiles.fandom.com/wiki/Storm_Front

Link 🔗 to the original author site:
https://www.jim-butcher.com/books/dresden

Many years ago, when bookstores were still a "thing", I always browsed the English books section. At some point, I stumbled on this book. It sounded interesting, so I bought it. And since then, I've collected a few of the books. 😊 I lent the first one to a "friend", but they ditched me, and never bothered to return my book. Anyway... Yay for ebooks. I started to re-read the Dresden Files, and in a few days, the 18th book in the series is being released: Twelve Months (Jan 20 2026).

Some info found online:
Storm Front, the book that kicked off one of the most popular urban fantasy series of the last few decades.

​If you’re thinking about diving in, here is a breakdown of what to expect from the book and the world it builds.

​The Story: "Storm Front"
​In this first novel, we meet Harry Dresden, Chicago’s only "wizard-for-hire." Harry isn't hiding in a castle; he’s in the Yellow Pages under "Wizards," right between Window Cleaners and Women’s Apparel.

​The Hook: Harry is struggling to pay his rent when the Chicago P.D. calls him in to consult on a gruesome double murder. The victims were killed using powerful black magic—their hearts literally exploded.

​The Stakes: Because Harry is a wizard, he’s already under the watchful (and suspicious) eye of the "White Council," the ruling body of magic. If he can’t find the real killer, the Council might decide he’s the one responsible and execute him.

​The Vibe: It feels like a classic 1940s noir detective story but set in modern-day Chicago with vampires, gangsters, and lightning bolts.

​The Series: "The Dresden Files"
​Jim Butcher has written 17 novels (and counting) in this series, plus several short story collections.
While it starts as a "monster-of-the-week" detective series, it eventually evolves into an epic, high-stakes saga.

​The World: Magic is real, but the "normal" world chooses not to see it. Harry lives in a basement apartment, drives a beat-up Volkswagen Beetle (the "Blue Beetle"), and can’t use modern technology because his magical aura causes electronics to short-circuit.

​The Supporting Cast: You’ll meet a cast of recurring characters, including Karrin Murphy (the tough-as-nails police lieutenant), Bob (a spirit of intellect who lives in a skull), and various factions of vampires and faeries.

​Progression: Many fans agree that while the first two books are fun, the series truly "levels up" starting with book 3 (Grave Peril), where the world-building expands significantly and the consequences of Harry’s actions start to ripple across the entire globe.

​Fun Fact: If you notice the hat on the cover, it’s a long-running joke among fans. Harry almost never wears a hat in the actual books, but the cover artists keep giving him one!

Next book in the series is: Fool Moon.

#Reading #Books #JimButcher #HarryDresden

@bookstodon
#BooksIn2026 #Bookstodon

5. Storm Front (The Dresden Files 1) - Jim Butcher

Link 🔗 to the Fandom wiki page:
https://dresdenfiles.fandom.com/wiki/Storm_Front

Link 🔗 to the original author site:
https://www.jim-butcher.com/books/dresden

Many years ago, when bookstores were still a "thing", I always browsed the English books section. At some point, I stumbled on this book. It sounded interesting, so I bought it. And since then, I've collected a few of the books. 😊 I lent the first one to a "friend", but they ditched me, and never bothered to return my book. Anyway... Yay for ebooks. I started to re-read the Dresden Files, and in a few days, the 18th book in the series is being released: Twelve Months (Jan 20 2026).

Some info found online:
Storm Front, the book that kicked off one of the most popular urban fantasy series of the last few decades.

​If you’re thinking about diving in, here is a breakdown of what to expect from the book and the world it builds.

​The Story: "Storm Front"
​In this first novel, we meet Harry Dresden, Chicago’s only "wizard-for-hire." Harry isn't hiding in a castle; he’s in the Yellow Pages under "Wizards," right between Window Cleaners and Women’s Apparel.

​The Hook: Harry is struggling to pay his rent when the Chicago P.D. calls him in to consult on a gruesome double murder. The victims were killed using powerful black magic—their hearts literally exploded.

​The Stakes: Because Harry is a wizard, he’s already under the watchful (and suspicious) eye of the "White Council," the ruling body of magic. If he can’t find the real killer, the Council might decide he’s the one responsible and execute him.

​The Vibe: It feels like a classic 1940s noir detective story but set in modern-day Chicago with vampires, gangsters, and lightning bolts.

​The Series: "The Dresden Files"
​Jim Butcher has written 17 novels (and counting) in this series, plus several short story collections.
While it starts as a "monster-of-the-week" detective series, it eventually evolves into an epic, high-stakes saga.

​The World: Magic is real, but the "normal" world chooses not to see it. Harry lives in a basement apartment, drives a beat-up Volkswagen Beetle (the "Blue Beetle"), and can’t use modern technology because his magical aura causes electronics to short-circuit.

​The Supporting Cast: You’ll meet a cast of recurring characters, including Karrin Murphy (the tough-as-nails police lieutenant), Bob (a spirit of intellect who lives in a skull), and various factions of vampires and faeries.

​Progression: Many fans agree that while the first two books are fun, the series truly "levels up" starting with book 3 (Grave Peril), where the world-building expands significantly and the consequences of Harry’s actions start to ripple across the entire globe.

​Fun Fact: If you notice the hat on the cover, it’s a long-running joke among fans. Harry almost never wears a hat in the actual books, but the cover artists keep giving him one!

Next book in the series is: Fool Moon.

#Reading #Books #JimButcher #HarryDresden

@bookstodon
#BooksIn2026 #Bookstodon

5. Storm Front (The Dresden Files 1) - Jim Butcher

Link 🔗 to the Fandom wiki page:
https://dresdenfiles.fandom.com/wiki/Storm_Front

Link 🔗 to the original author site:
https://www.jim-butcher.com/books/dresden

Many years ago, when bookstores were still a "thing", I always browsed the English books section. At some point, I stumbled on this book. It sounded interesting, so I bought it. And since then, I've collected a few of the books. 😊 I lent the first one to a "friend", but they ditched me, and never bothered to return my book. Anyway... Yay for ebooks. I started to re-read the Dresden Files, and in a few days, the 18th book in the series is being released: Twelve Months (Jan 20 2026).

Some info found online:
Storm Front, the book that kicked off one of the most popular urban fantasy series of the last few decades.

​If you’re thinking about diving in, here is a breakdown of what to expect from the book and the world it builds.

​The Story: "Storm Front"
​In this first novel, we meet Harry Dresden, Chicago’s only "wizard-for-hire." Harry isn't hiding in a castle; he’s in the Yellow Pages under "Wizards," right between Window Cleaners and Women’s Apparel.

​The Hook: Harry is struggling to pay his rent when the Chicago P.D. calls him in to consult on a gruesome double murder. The victims were killed using powerful black magic—their hearts literally exploded.

​The Stakes: Because Harry is a wizard, he’s already under the watchful (and suspicious) eye of the "White Council," the ruling body of magic. If he can’t find the real killer, the Council might decide he’s the one responsible and execute him.

​The Vibe: It feels like a classic 1940s noir detective story but set in modern-day Chicago with vampires, gangsters, and lightning bolts.

​The Series: "The Dresden Files"
​Jim Butcher has written 17 novels (and counting) in this series, plus several short story collections.
While it starts as a "monster-of-the-week" detective series, it eventually evolves into an epic, high-stakes saga.

​The World: Magic is real, but the "normal" world chooses not to see it. Harry lives in a basement apartment, drives a beat-up Volkswagen Beetle (the "Blue Beetle"), and can’t use modern technology because his magical aura causes electronics to short-circuit.

​The Supporting Cast: You’ll meet a cast of recurring characters, including Karrin Murphy (the tough-as-nails police lieutenant), Bob (a spirit of intellect who lives in a skull), and various factions of vampires and faeries.

​Progression: Many fans agree that while the first two books are fun, the series truly "levels up" starting with book 3 (Grave Peril), where the world-building expands significantly and the consequences of Harry’s actions start to ripple across the entire globe.

​Fun Fact: If you notice the hat on the cover, it’s a long-running joke among fans. Harry almost never wears a hat in the actual books, but the cover artists keep giving him one!

Next book in the series is: Fool Moon.

#Reading #Books #JimButcher #HarryDresden

@bookstodon
#BooksIn2026 #Bookstodon

5. Storm Front (The Dresden Files 1) - Jim Butcher

Link 🔗 to the Fandom wiki page:
https://dresdenfiles.fandom.com/wiki/Storm_Front

Link 🔗 to the original author site:
https://www.jim-butcher.com/books/dresden

Many years ago, when bookstores were still a "thing", I always browsed the English books section. At some point, I stumbled on this book. It sounded interesting, so I bought it. And since then, I've collected a few of the books. 😊 I lent the first one to a "friend", but they ditched me, and never bothered to return my book. Anyway... Yay for ebooks. I started to re-read the Dresden Files, and in a few days, the 18th book in the series is being released: Twelve Months (Jan 20 2026).

Some info found online:
Storm Front, the book that kicked off one of the most popular urban fantasy series of the last few decades.

​If you’re thinking about diving in, here is a breakdown of what to expect from the book and the world it builds.

​The Story: "Storm Front"
​In this first novel, we meet Harry Dresden, Chicago’s only "wizard-for-hire." Harry isn't hiding in a castle; he’s in the Yellow Pages under "Wizards," right between Window Cleaners and Women’s Apparel.

​The Hook: Harry is struggling to pay his rent when the Chicago P.D. calls him in to consult on a gruesome double murder. The victims were killed using powerful black magic—their hearts literally exploded.

​The Stakes: Because Harry is a wizard, he’s already under the watchful (and suspicious) eye of the "White Council," the ruling body of magic. If he can’t find the real killer, the Council might decide he’s the one responsible and execute him.

​The Vibe: It feels like a classic 1940s noir detective story but set in modern-day Chicago with vampires, gangsters, and lightning bolts.

​The Series: "The Dresden Files"
​Jim Butcher has written 17 novels (and counting) in this series, plus several short story collections.
While it starts as a "monster-of-the-week" detective series, it eventually evolves into an epic, high-stakes saga.

​The World: Magic is real, but the "normal" world chooses not to see it. Harry lives in a basement apartment, drives a beat-up Volkswagen Beetle (the "Blue Beetle"), and can’t use modern technology because his magical aura causes electronics to short-circuit.

​The Supporting Cast: You’ll meet a cast of recurring characters, including Karrin Murphy (the tough-as-nails police lieutenant), Bob (a spirit of intellect who lives in a skull), and various factions of vampires and faeries.

​Progression: Many fans agree that while the first two books are fun, the series truly "levels up" starting with book 3 (Grave Peril), where the world-building expands significantly and the consequences of Harry’s actions start to ripple across the entire globe.

​Fun Fact: If you notice the hat on the cover, it’s a long-running joke among fans. Harry almost never wears a hat in the actual books, but the cover artists keep giving him one!

Next book in the series is: Fool Moon.

#Reading #Books #JimButcher #HarryDresden

@bookstodon
#BooksIn2026 #Bookstodon

5. Storm Front (The Dresden Files 1) - Jim Butcher

Link 🔗 to the Fandom wiki page:
https://dresdenfiles.fandom.com/wiki/Storm_Front

Link 🔗 to the original author site:
https://www.jim-butcher.com/books/dresden

Many years ago, when bookstores were still a "thing", I always browsed the English books section. At some point, I stumbled on this book. It sounded interesting, so I bought it. And since then, I've collected a few of the books. 😊 I lent the first one to a "friend", but they ditched me, and never bothered to return my book. Anyway... Yay for ebooks. I started to re-read the Dresden Files, and in a few days, the 18th book in the series is being released: Twelve Months (Jan 20 2026).

Some info found online:
Storm Front, the book that kicked off one of the most popular urban fantasy series of the last few decades.

​If you’re thinking about diving in, here is a breakdown of what to expect from the book and the world it builds.

​The Story: "Storm Front"
​In this first novel, we meet Harry Dresden, Chicago’s only "wizard-for-hire." Harry isn't hiding in a castle; he’s in the Yellow Pages under "Wizards," right between Window Cleaners and Women’s Apparel.

​The Hook: Harry is struggling to pay his rent when the Chicago P.D. calls him in to consult on a gruesome double murder. The victims were killed using powerful black magic—their hearts literally exploded.

​The Stakes: Because Harry is a wizard, he’s already under the watchful (and suspicious) eye of the "White Council," the ruling body of magic. If he can’t find the real killer, the Council might decide he’s the one responsible and execute him.

​The Vibe: It feels like a classic 1940s noir detective story but set in modern-day Chicago with vampires, gangsters, and lightning bolts.

​The Series: "The Dresden Files"
​Jim Butcher has written 17 novels (and counting) in this series, plus several short story collections.
While it starts as a "monster-of-the-week" detective series, it eventually evolves into an epic, high-stakes saga.

​The World: Magic is real, but the "normal" world chooses not to see it. Harry lives in a basement apartment, drives a beat-up Volkswagen Beetle (the "Blue Beetle"), and can’t use modern technology because his magical aura causes electronics to short-circuit.

​The Supporting Cast: You’ll meet a cast of recurring characters, including Karrin Murphy (the tough-as-nails police lieutenant), Bob (a spirit of intellect who lives in a skull), and various factions of vampires and faeries.

​Progression: Many fans agree that while the first two books are fun, the series truly "levels up" starting with book 3 (Grave Peril), where the world-building expands significantly and the consequences of Harry’s actions start to ripple across the entire globe.

​Fun Fact: If you notice the hat on the cover, it’s a long-running joke among fans. Harry almost never wears a hat in the actual books, but the cover artists keep giving him one!

Next book in the series is: Fool Moon.

#Reading #Books #JimButcher #HarryDresden

@bookstodon
#BooksIn2026 #Bookstodon

Slowly making some progress with the Jim Butcher "Storm Front" book. I've had a little less time to read the last few days, due to dad's hospital incident, taking care of little Sir Barks-A-Lot™, and being distracted at times...

Bas is eager for many walkies, but in between, he will cuddle up with me for some relaxing time on the couch, sometimes with my Kobo.

According to the Kobo stats, I have about 1.7 hours to go before I'll finish the book. Currently starting chapter 20, page 319 of 431... I've read the book before. Even used to have the paper version, until I lent it to someone who ended the friendship and never bothered to get the book back to me... 😔 But it's been a while since I read it, so I don't recall all the details.

I hope that my brain will be a little calmer and/or more relaxed soon, as I want to try out the Seanan McGuire book that's in the top list of the Kobo. But I struggle with new books when I can't focus properly on it. That's so why I've been reading books I've read before. 😊 Although, I had to reset my Kobo early last year to connect it to the Bol store, as a friend gifted me a book there, so all my stats are back to "fresh" since then.

According to the stats, since the reset, I've read 193.3 hours, and I've been able to finish 13 books. 10 of them, I've read since I started the re-read of the Robert Langdon series, as the 6th book got out and I got it. 😊

I do miss reading paper books, I always loved seeing how far I was by spotting the bookmark between the pages. I've always been very careful with my books, something my mum imprinted on me since we started borrowing books at the library when I was a young one. But... With my hands being as bad as they are, and me enjoying to read in darker areas, the eReader with the soft backlight (and the adjustable font size, as you can't do that with a book either), and the light weight, it's been a godsend to me and my love for reading.

Some moments, I read a lot... And then... Well... Not. :ablobcatangel: Let's put away my phone and grab the reader. Snuggle up with Bas on the couch, and try to get a bit closer to the ending... :blobcatbook:

:playstation: :pixy_party:

#Reading #Books #Kobo #eReader

@bookstodon
#BooksIn2026 #Bookstodon

I had some books lined up to read... And many I was/am interested in reading, as I mentioned.

Yesterday, when I went to bed, I didn't feel like reading the fourth Hunger Games book... I was tempted to read the "Rosemary & Rue" book, but as I was tired, I opted for a book that I had previously read (even though it's been a while): "Storm Front", by Jim Butcher.

No idea which book will be my 4th of 2026, but I'll just keep reading when I feel like it... :ablobcatangel:

I'm crazy enough to even start the Seanan McGuire book as well, depending on my mood...

Happy reading! :blobcatbook:

:playstation: :pixy_party:

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Silly annoying routine!

https://cynnisblog.wordpress.com/2026/01/14/silly-annoying-routine/

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4. Mockingjay (the Hunger Games series, book 3) - Suzanne Collins

Link 🔗 to the Fandom wiki page about the book: https://thehungergames.fandom.com/wiki/Mockingjay

In this concluding chapter, Katniss Everdeen has survived the games twice, but the fight is far from over. She finds herself thrust into the heart of an all-out civil war between the districts and the Capitol. To win, she must decide if she is willing to truly become the "Mockingjay"—the official face of the rebellion. The story is a high-stakes exploration of the gritty reality of revolution, the power of propaganda, and the personal toll of fighting for freedom.

Although the books were aimed at young adults, I do think this one has some gory bits in it... Some deaths are just more horrid than others. Some are sad... Some aren't... 😉

The final book of the original trilogy about the Mockingjay, Katniss Everdeen. After this book, two more books came out, although it took almost ten years before the 4th came, which tells the story of young Coriolanus Snow.

Some info on the books (and movies):

• 1. The Hunger Games (Sept 2008) - Movie: Mar 2012
• 2. Catching Fire (Sept 2009) - Movie: Nov 2013
• 3. Mockingjay (Aug 2010) - Movie: 2014/2015 (Two parts)
• 4. The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes (Prequel, May 2020) - Movie: Nov 2023
• 5. Sunrise on the Reaping (Prequel, March 2025) - Movie: Scheduled for 2026

I've just started The Ballad... But it's a bigger one. The first three books had a bit more than 500 pages, this one has almost 800! So it will probably take me a bit longer to finish this one... According to my Kobo, I will probably need about 13½ hours to "get through" this one. 😊

Let's keep reading then.... :blobcatbook:

#Reading #Books #TheHungerGames #SuzanneCollins

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3. Catching Fire (the Hunger Games series, book 2) - Suzanne Collins

Info about the book from WikiFandom 🔗
https://thehungergames.fandom.com/wiki/Catching_Fire

Picking up after the first book, the story follows Katniss Everdeen as she returns home to District 12. Her victory has unintentionally fueled a spark of rebellion across the oppressed districts of Panem. As the Capitol seeks to regain control, Katniss and Peeta are forced back into the spotlight for the 75th Hunger Games, a special "Quarter Quell" that changes the rules of survival forever.

For those who have only seen the movies, the books have some differences in them. Some are slight, some are bigger... I love the movies, but I also really like the books a lot. Some characters get a little more depth in the books, where (especially in the third book, Mockingjay) some characters get more attention in the movies than they had in the books (or vise versa).

The Hunger Games books are aimed at young-adults, so they don't use too much difficult words in them. They are a relaxing read, and even after reading them several times, and knowing the movies by heart, I still love to re-read them every now and then...

Some info on the books (and movies):

• 1. The Hunger Games (Sept 2008) - Movie: Mar 2012
• 2. Catching Fire (Sept 2009) - Movie: Nov 2013
• 3. Mockingjay (Aug 2010) - Movie: 2014/2015 (Two parts)
• 4. The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes (Prequel, May 2020) - Movie: Nov 2023
• 5. Sunrise on the Reaping (Prequel, March 2025) - Movie: Scheduled for 2026

Onwards to Mockingjay! :blobcatbook:

#Reading #Books #HungerGames #SuzanneCollins