Framed in Death by J.D. Robb

Framed in Death: In Death, Book 61

Barbara’s rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars
Series: In Death #61
Publication Date: 9/2/25
Period: Future New York – 2061
Number of Pages: 368

Sixty-one books and this series is still as fresh, new, and interesting as it was in the beginning. I continue to marvel at this author’s skill and ingenuity in creating exciting, interesting characters along with suspenseful mysteries. Thank goodness she gives us two books per year because I don’t think I could wait an entire year between books!

He was born to wealth, privilege, and an exceptional creative talent for painting. So, why do all of the gallery owners decline to feature his works? Why do they say his works are pedestrian? Well, he’ll just show them – he’ll outpaint the Old Masters and see how quickly those galleries change their minds. He’d begin tonight . . .

For a change, Eve is up and dressed when she gets the call from dispatch. She’d get all of her paperwork cleaned up before she started her day . . . but, dispatch and a vicious killer have other plans for her. When she gets a new body the next day, and the next, Eve knows she has to find the murderer before he kills again.

It’s all-hands-on-deck for Eve and her homicide squad, Roarke, PA Cher Reo, McNab, Feeny, and reporter Nadine Furst. The chase is on, and Eve and her crew always win, but this time, even if they find him, he might slip out of their hands.

I have read every book in the series, and I have also listened to the audiobook for each. The narrator, Susan Ericksen, has narrated the complete series, and she has done an outstanding job. Her characterizations are distinct for each character, and her voice conveys the emotion of the scene. You smile with her; you feel the anger; you hold your breath in suspense; you sigh with her during those softer scenes. Yes, this narrator is the perfect one for the In Death series.

Sometimes, when every work in a series is outstanding, you have to love some a bit less than others. So, while I loved this book, it isn’t one of my favorites because it has less action, less excitement, less suspense, and a slower pace than usual. As always, there is plenty of wit to cut the grim details, and we get a nice visit with Mavis, Leonardo, Bella, Peabody, and McNab in their new home. Now, I have to wait for February to get the next book.

I recommend this book, this series, and this author. If you are new to the series, I strongly recommend going back and reading at least the first few books in the series to get a feel for the characters and their development. Actually, after you read book one, you’ll be hooked and will want to read all of them!

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

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A Moment’s Shadow by Anna Lee Huber

A Moment's Shadow (Verity Kent Mysteries, #8)Barbara’s rating: 5 out of 5 Stars
Series: Verity Kent Mysteries #8
Publication Date: 8/26/25
Period: Post World War I – Ireland (1920)
Number of Pages: 368

A Gripping, Emotionally Charged Historical Mystery

This intense, nail-biting, heart-wrenching story has everything it needs to hold your attention and keep you turning the pages. The author masterfully evokes the fear, tension, and emotional complexity of a turbulent, war-torn time. I’m always cautious about how writers handle stories set during politically sensitive eras, but Ms. Huber treats both the British and the IRA with fairness and nuance.

Verity and Sidney remain in Dublin, racing against time to locate the deadly phosgene gas cylinders before the arch-villain Lord Ardmore unleashes devastation. They don’t know whether he intends to use it against the Irish or the English—only that the danger is imminent and widespread. With Lord Ardmore’s influence reaching deep into the police and government, Verity and Sidney are on their own, navigating a minefield of danger, betrayal, and uncertainty. Will they find the gas in time? Will they bring Ardmore down—or walk into a deadly trap?

The story grips you from the very first page and doesn’t let go—not even after the cliffhanger of all cliffhangers at the end. Days later, I’m still thinking about the suspense and emotional stakes. I especially love Alec, whose divided loyalties add another compelling layer to the narrative, and I’m hopeful for a positive turn in his arc as the series continues. Sidney and Verity are facing greater danger than ever, and the uncertainty of their fate makes this a truly unforgettable read.

If you love a well-paced, immersive mystery with rich historical detail and morally complex characters, this book is for you. A thoroughly excellent tale!

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

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