Maggi Andersen's Blog, page 70
May 29, 2012
May 21, 2012
I'm a guest on Romancing the Book
I'm talking about writing a romantic suspense at: http://romancing-the-book.com/2012/05/guest-maggi-andersen.html
May 17, 2012
Next stop on the blog tour: Romancing the Book
Murder In Devon by Maggi Andersen
Release Date: February 25, 2012
Publisher: Black Opal Books
Pages: 316 pages
Source: book tour
Review: Murder in Devon by Maggi Andersen was a very enjoyable book. It was the very first mostly suspense novel I’ve ever read, so this review is coming from a complete romantic=suspense newbie. While there were many things I enjoyed about this book, the main thing that I disliked was the fact that you must have some knowledge of life in England. If you don’t know the different rankings and abbreviations of the police force, then you’ll spend much of the first few chapters running back to the computer to Google the meanings, which is what I had to do. Other than that, though, I really liked reading it.
I did enjoy Casey’s dogged determination to find out who killed and injured her friends, no matter the cost. Murder in Devon kept me guessing until the very end. By the time I found out who the true killer was, I was already sure it was someone else at least twice! Throughout the entire book, I found myself feeling the emotions the characters were feeling. I felt the despair, the terror, and the relief. There were several times when I was very grateful that I wasn’t reading in public, because I remember going, you’ve got to be kidding me! During one of the biggest developments, I was as disappointed as the main character. I couldn’t believe it, then when it all changes later, I had to go back and reread the chapter, for I was sure I was imagining it. All of those things are the marks of a fantastic read.
For those who aren’t a romance fan, it’s fairly light in that department, focusing more on the case and the details of the investigation. I prefer a bit more romance in my books. It doesn’t have to be full on smut, but the falling in love emotions. A good read overall if you’re in the mood for a good suspense novel full of intrigue that doesn’t give one hint at who the real culprit is until the very end. Maggi should be proud of Murder in Devon . She did a great job.
Release Date: February 25, 2012
Publisher: Black Opal Books
Pages: 316 pages
Source: book tour
She wants the truth, but it may cost her more than she thinks…
An ex-patriot-American living in England, magazine reporter Casey Rowan wakes to find one best friend murdered and another seriously injured. Casey is determined to find the killer, despite running afoul of the detective in charge of the case—a blue-eyed Scot named Rod Carlisle, who considers her a prime suspect. As Casey gets closer to the truth, losing her heart to the sexy cop isn’t the only thing she risks. Now her life is danger, too.
He wants her, but he may have to choose between love and duty…
Rod has no patience with civilians who interfere in police matters, even hot little numbers like Casey. Though he tries to keep things professional, Casey’s beauty and spunk are hard to resist. He warns her that what she’s doing is dangerous, but he only succeeds in alienating her. She refuses to listen and goes off on her own with disastrous results. Now Rod’s in a race to find the killer before the woman he loves becomes the next victim.
Review: Murder in Devon by Maggi Andersen was a very enjoyable book. It was the very first mostly suspense novel I’ve ever read, so this review is coming from a complete romantic=suspense newbie. While there were many things I enjoyed about this book, the main thing that I disliked was the fact that you must have some knowledge of life in England. If you don’t know the different rankings and abbreviations of the police force, then you’ll spend much of the first few chapters running back to the computer to Google the meanings, which is what I had to do. Other than that, though, I really liked reading it.
I did enjoy Casey’s dogged determination to find out who killed and injured her friends, no matter the cost. Murder in Devon kept me guessing until the very end. By the time I found out who the true killer was, I was already sure it was someone else at least twice! Throughout the entire book, I found myself feeling the emotions the characters were feeling. I felt the despair, the terror, and the relief. There were several times when I was very grateful that I wasn’t reading in public, because I remember going, you’ve got to be kidding me! During one of the biggest developments, I was as disappointed as the main character. I couldn’t believe it, then when it all changes later, I had to go back and reread the chapter, for I was sure I was imagining it. All of those things are the marks of a fantastic read.
For those who aren’t a romance fan, it’s fairly light in that department, focusing more on the case and the details of the investigation. I prefer a bit more romance in my books. It doesn’t have to be full on smut, but the falling in love emotions. A good read overall if you’re in the mood for a good suspense novel full of intrigue that doesn’t give one hint at who the real culprit is until the very end. Maggi should be proud of Murder in Devon . She did a great job.
May 15, 2012
My blog tour continues with a great Review for Murder in Devon.
Maggi Andersen- Murder in Devon
Format- Paperback
Source- Review copy
Publisher- Black Opal Books
Publication date- 25th Feb 2012
Genre: Contemporary Mystery/Romantic Suspense
Synopsis- She wants the truth, but it may cost her more than she thinks…
An ex-patriot-American living in England, magazine reporter Casey Rowan wakes to find one best friend murdered and another seriously injured. Casey is determined to find the killer, despite running afoul of the detective in charge of the case—a blue-eyed Scot named Rod Carlisle, who considers her a prime suspect. As Casey gets closer to the truth, losing her heart to the sexy cop isn’t the only thing she risks. Now her life is danger, too.
He wants her, but he may have to choose between love and duty…
Rod has no patience with civilians who interfere in police matters, even hot little numbers like Casey. Though he tries to keep things professional, Casey’s beauty and spunk are hard to resist. He warns her that what she’s doing is dangerous, but he only succeeds in alienating her. She refuses to listen and goes off on her own with disastrous results. Now Rod’s in a race to find the killer before the woman he loves becomes the next victim.
Review- Murder in Devon was a thoroughly enjoyable romantic suspense novel by Australian author Maggi Andersen. Set in the chilly, wary town of Devon, England, women’s magazine journalist Casey Rowan returns from America to spend some time with close friends Don and Tessa. Groggy from sleep one morning she stumbles across a horrific murder scene in their sitting room. Don has been killed and Tessa has been seriously injured and hospitalised.
Casey’s inherent journalistic drive kicks in and she is desperate to find the killer regardless of handsome Detective Rod Carlisle’s advice for her to steer clear of their investigation. Casey is stubborn and persistent and ruffles up the feathers of people who do not want the truth known and will do anything to ensure that happens.
Not only is the crime plot and suspense well-written and engaging, with Casey tramping across England and even over to Germany to investigate the murder, the romantic element of the story is also well paced with plenty of chemistry and tension. Casey is head-strong and determined whereas Rod is more level-headed and sensible and his deep attraction to her drives him to protect her and keep her safe. I really enjoyed the slow-building connection between the two of them, with Rod’s honesty about his feelings for her at the outset and Casey’s defences that put up barriers to their relationship progressing throughout the story.
There’s plenty of interesting characters in this novel and I felt Casey grew as an individual and in her relationship with Rod, overcoming some of the difficulties that prevented her from committing. Murder in Devon is an absorbing romantic suspense novel with plenty of action and twists.
Maggi is stopping by for a guest post and international giveaway in 2 days, so please check it out.
4/5 rating
Format- Paperback
Source- Review copy
Publisher- Black Opal Books
Publication date- 25th Feb 2012
Genre: Contemporary Mystery/Romantic Suspense
Synopsis- She wants the truth, but it may cost her more than she thinks…
An ex-patriot-American living in England, magazine reporter Casey Rowan wakes to find one best friend murdered and another seriously injured. Casey is determined to find the killer, despite running afoul of the detective in charge of the case—a blue-eyed Scot named Rod Carlisle, who considers her a prime suspect. As Casey gets closer to the truth, losing her heart to the sexy cop isn’t the only thing she risks. Now her life is danger, too.
He wants her, but he may have to choose between love and duty…
Rod has no patience with civilians who interfere in police matters, even hot little numbers like Casey. Though he tries to keep things professional, Casey’s beauty and spunk are hard to resist. He warns her that what she’s doing is dangerous, but he only succeeds in alienating her. She refuses to listen and goes off on her own with disastrous results. Now Rod’s in a race to find the killer before the woman he loves becomes the next victim.
Review- Murder in Devon was a thoroughly enjoyable romantic suspense novel by Australian author Maggi Andersen. Set in the chilly, wary town of Devon, England, women’s magazine journalist Casey Rowan returns from America to spend some time with close friends Don and Tessa. Groggy from sleep one morning she stumbles across a horrific murder scene in their sitting room. Don has been killed and Tessa has been seriously injured and hospitalised.
Casey’s inherent journalistic drive kicks in and she is desperate to find the killer regardless of handsome Detective Rod Carlisle’s advice for her to steer clear of their investigation. Casey is stubborn and persistent and ruffles up the feathers of people who do not want the truth known and will do anything to ensure that happens.
Not only is the crime plot and suspense well-written and engaging, with Casey tramping across England and even over to Germany to investigate the murder, the romantic element of the story is also well paced with plenty of chemistry and tension. Casey is head-strong and determined whereas Rod is more level-headed and sensible and his deep attraction to her drives him to protect her and keep her safe. I really enjoyed the slow-building connection between the two of them, with Rod’s honesty about his feelings for her at the outset and Casey’s defences that put up barriers to their relationship progressing throughout the story.
There’s plenty of interesting characters in this novel and I felt Casey grew as an individual and in her relationship with Rod, overcoming some of the difficulties that prevented her from committing. Murder in Devon is an absorbing romantic suspense novel with plenty of action and twists.
Maggi is stopping by for a guest post and international giveaway in 2 days, so please check it out.
4/5 rating
May 13, 2012
GIVEAWAY ~ MURDER IN DEVON!
GIVEAWAY AND A GREAT REVIEW FROM SOCRATES' BOOK REVIEWS
http://socratesbookreviews.blogspot.com.au/2012/05/blog-tour-murder-in-devon-by-maggi.html#comment-form
Casey Rowan, an ex-patriot American living in England, discovers one of her best friends has been murdered, another is lying near death. Her world is totally shattered and she is determined to find out who is behind these horrible events. This does not sit well with the lead detective on the case, Rod Carlisle. Not to mention that Casey is on his list of suspects. In fact, she’s right at the top of the list.
Much to Rod’s dismay, Casey continues to interfere in the murder investigation as well as put herself in harm’s way at every turn. He finds himself quite attracted to the beautiful American despite knowing that nothing good can come of getting involved with a murder suspect. To make matters worse, Casey is obviously getting someone angry with all questions making her the next target. Rod has his hands full finding a killer and keeping Casey safe.
This is a fast-paced mystery that reminds me quite a bit of an Agatha Christie mystery. The suspects are presented in a clear, concise manner giving readers a chance to figure out whodunit themselves. Casey is a very strong-willed heroine who I liked from the beginning. It took me a little longer to warm up to Rod, but I did like him.
This book has it all – a good mystery, great characters, a beautiful setting and a nice romance all mixed into one enjoyable read.
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http://socratesbookreviews.blogspot.com.au/2012/05/blog-tour-murder-in-devon-by-maggi.html#comment-formCasey Rowan, an ex-patriot American living in England, discovers one of her best friends has been murdered, another is lying near death. Her world is totally shattered and she is determined to find out who is behind these horrible events. This does not sit well with the lead detective on the case, Rod Carlisle. Not to mention that Casey is on his list of suspects. In fact, she’s right at the top of the list.
Much to Rod’s dismay, Casey continues to interfere in the murder investigation as well as put herself in harm’s way at every turn. He finds himself quite attracted to the beautiful American despite knowing that nothing good can come of getting involved with a murder suspect. To make matters worse, Casey is obviously getting someone angry with all questions making her the next target. Rod has his hands full finding a killer and keeping Casey safe.
This is a fast-paced mystery that reminds me quite a bit of an Agatha Christie mystery. The suspects are presented in a clear, concise manner giving readers a chance to figure out whodunit themselves. Casey is a very strong-willed heroine who I liked from the beginning. It took me a little longer to warm up to Rod, but I did like him.
This book has it all – a good mystery, great characters, a beautiful setting and a nice romance all mixed into one enjoyable read.
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Book Review: Tangled Love by Rosemary Morris
Buy Link: http://www.amazon.com/Tangled-Love-ebook/dp/B007886ZNI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1336970431&sr=8-1In 1693, loyal to his oath of allegiance to James II, ten year old Richelda's father follows James to France. Before her father leaves he gives her a ruby ring and makes her swear an oath to try and regain their ancestral home, Field House.
The story begins when Richelda at 18 is orphaned, and lives in run-down Belmont House with her mother's old nurse and her dog, Puck. Richelda can only dream of living the life she was meant for and hopes her childhood friend, Dudley, will honor his promise to marry her.
When Richelda's wealthy aunt, who had been disinterested in her welfare up to now, takes her to London and arranges her marriage to Viscount Chesney, the new owner of Field House. Richelda is both delighted and dismayed. She cannot trust the handsome Chesney, even though she is desperate to honor her oath to regain Field House.
I enjoyed this historical romance very much, it's well written and Morris knows her history and understands the society of the period well. The heroine and hero are both attractive and likeable. I wanted to see them get together in the end. What stood out for me in this romance is the shrewd knowledge of human nature, Morris displays. Her character's rash actions, mistakes and foibles are always understandable, and never detract from the good characters of both.
An enjoyable read.
May 11, 2012
Great review for Murder in Devon!
Murder in Devon, Mystery Novel by Maggi Andersen Do you love novels set in England?Do you love cozy mysteries?Do you love romantic suspense?Do you love plots that have layers and layers to peel like an onion?Did you say yes to the questions above? You may find you’ll love reading Murder in Devon.
When Casey Rowan, a young American woman living in England, finds two good friends murdered, she is determined to find the killer at any cost. Rod Carlisle, the investigator on the case just wants Casey to stay out of his business. As the web of intrigue grows more tangled, so does their fragile romance, especially since Casey is the prime suspect.
Casey is one of those heroines we love because she dives into what she believes is right with no thought to her own safety. All she wants is justice. But she finds the evidence leads her deeper into other cover-ups and misdeeds, and soon she finds herself in danger. It’s the perfect set up for a murder mystery one can’t put down.
This latest novel by Maggi Andersen is a well crafted story of romantic suspense. Readers who enjoy books by P.D. James will enjoy this intellectual mystery. I found myself checking back and rereading sections of the book to make sure I didn’t miss a single clue. The fun of a mystery is not being outwitted, but this book had me second guessing myself all the way to the last page.
Teacherwriter.net
When Casey Rowan, a young American woman living in England, finds two good friends murdered, she is determined to find the killer at any cost. Rod Carlisle, the investigator on the case just wants Casey to stay out of his business. As the web of intrigue grows more tangled, so does their fragile romance, especially since Casey is the prime suspect.
Casey is one of those heroines we love because she dives into what she believes is right with no thought to her own safety. All she wants is justice. But she finds the evidence leads her deeper into other cover-ups and misdeeds, and soon she finds herself in danger. It’s the perfect set up for a murder mystery one can’t put down.
This latest novel by Maggi Andersen is a well crafted story of romantic suspense. Readers who enjoy books by P.D. James will enjoy this intellectual mystery. I found myself checking back and rereading sections of the book to make sure I didn’t miss a single clue. The fun of a mystery is not being outwitted, but this book had me second guessing myself all the way to the last page.
Teacherwriter.net
May 9, 2012
5 Star review for The Relucant Marquess!
This book was fun and very entertaining.
Maggi writes a book you cannot put down, it was frustrating to the point that it was somehow glued to my hands and I had to carry it around the house so that I could continue to read it.
Poor Charity is put in a horrible situation that most of us would balk at and then once our brains kick in, we would realise that we had to make the same choice she did... marry a man she didn't know at all!
Lord Robert is a great character, I didn't know if he was going to be nice or angry at the things Charity did and said.
Over all I would recommend this book, and I certainly want to read more from Maggi!
Karen Aminadra on Goodreads
Maggi writes a book you cannot put down, it was frustrating to the point that it was somehow glued to my hands and I had to carry it around the house so that I could continue to read it.
Poor Charity is put in a horrible situation that most of us would balk at and then once our brains kick in, we would realise that we had to make the same choice she did... marry a man she didn't know at all!
Lord Robert is a great character, I didn't know if he was going to be nice or angry at the things Charity did and said.
Over all I would recommend this book, and I certainly want to read more from Maggi!
Karen Aminadra on Goodreads
May 8, 2012
Great review for Murder in Devon!
When Casey Rowan, a young American woman living in England, finds two good friends murdered, she is determined to find the killer at any cost. Rod Carlisle, the investigator on the case just wants Casey to stay out of his business. As the web of intrigue grows more tangled, so does their fragile romance, especially since Casey is the prime suspect.
Casey is one of those heroines we love because she dives into what she believes is right with no thought to her own safety. All she wants is justice. But she finds the evidence leads her deeper into other cover-ups and misdeeds, and soon she finds herself in danger. It’s the perfect set up for a murder mystery one can’t put down.
This latest novel by Maggi Anderson is a well crafted story of romantic suspense. Readers who enjoy books by P.D. James will enjoy this intellectual mystery. I found myself checking back and rereading sections of the book to make sure I didn’t miss a single clue. The fun of a mystery is not being outwitted, but this book had me second guessing myself all the way to the last page.
Suzanne at TeacherWriter.
Casey is one of those heroines we love because she dives into what she believes is right with no thought to her own safety. All she wants is justice. But she finds the evidence leads her deeper into other cover-ups and misdeeds, and soon she finds herself in danger. It’s the perfect set up for a murder mystery one can’t put down.
This latest novel by Maggi Anderson is a well crafted story of romantic suspense. Readers who enjoy books by P.D. James will enjoy this intellectual mystery. I found myself checking back and rereading sections of the book to make sure I didn’t miss a single clue. The fun of a mystery is not being outwitted, but this book had me second guessing myself all the way to the last page.
Suzanne at TeacherWriter.
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