I read Murder in Thrall in 2013, and when NetGalley offered Murder in Hindsight, I requested it. But I had missed the second in the series, Murder in Retribution, so I decided to order it. Mind you, my opinion of the first novel was mixed because of a certain element of obsessive behavior. Yet, I found Murder in Thrall interesting in all other ways...except for that one element.
Murder in Retribution
I don't know. There are parts I like, but the characters are really kind of creepy and obsessed with sex. Acton is a kind of Heathcliff character and Kathleen is a willing Kathy.
Kathleen's pious Catholic upbringing and remarks about right and wrong contrast with her acceptance of her husband's behavior. The two have a weird co-dependent relationship that requires Kathleen to be willing to have sex anywhere, any time. Ugh.
Yet, the crime plot about a turf war is interesting. If the author would only stick to that. I also like Kathleen's ability to spot lies.
Read in February. Delayed review because I couldn't decide what to say about the creep factor, which is much worse in this one than in the first one.
Purchased.
Crime. 2014. Print length: 304 pages.
Murder in Hindsight
Kathleen reviews cold cases and suspects a serial killer is acting as a vigilante. There is a conspiracy against Acton that Kathleen unwittingly contributes to.
More "romance." More creepy obsession and over-protectiveness by Acton.
Whew. I wish the author had not decided to focus on the weird relationship so wholeheartedly. The police procedural elements and essential plot are interesting, but....
I am distinctly uncomfortable with Acton's "condition" and the freaky nature of the relationship.
I checked reviews of the novels and found that most of those reviewing the books, loved them.
Read in February.
NetGalley/Kensington Books
Crime. April 1, 2015. Print length: 352 pages.
Hmmm...I'm not familiar with the author or this series. After reading your dilemma, not sure I'll try it. We'll see.
ReplyDeleteThe first one was a little weird, but the next two were mega-weird.
DeleteSounds interesting but not sure about the creepy factor. I suppose I've to read them to find out.
ReplyDeleteI was surprised at how many reviews were 4-5 stars. Maybe it is just that the books were uncomfortable for me because I'm not a fan of that many sexual encounters--breakfast, lunch, and twice after dinner! :)
DeleteI might be put off by the "creep factor" and would pass on them. However you made the rest of the stories sound intriguing, so they're a "maybe" for me. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteThe plots, while interesting, take second place. :(
DeleteThis sounds intriguing, but the ickiness of the Acton/Kathleen relationship definitely puts me off.
ReplyDeleteThe first book just leaves you kind of unsettled about the relationship, but the next two pretty much ended my interest in the series. In fact, I wouldn't have read the third, except that I already accepted it from NetGalley.
DeleteYou described their relationship perfectly! I've only read the first one but recently purchased the second book. I was hoping it would focus more on mystery but oh well, I guess I at least now know what to expect!
ReplyDelete:) It is a strange series!
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