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Mac Faraday Mystery #3
Shades of Murder
What do you get the man with everything? When that man is the heir of the late mystery writer Robin Spencer, retired homicide detective Mac Faraday, you get him cold case to solve. In Shades of Murder, Mac Faraday is once again the heir to an unbelievable fortune. This time the benefactor is a stolen art collector. But this isn’t just any stolen work-of-art—it’s a masterpiece with a murder attached to it. Ilysa Ramsay was in the midst of taking the art world by storm with her artistic genius. Hours after unveiling her latest masterpiece—she is found dead in her Deep Creek Lake studio—and her painting is nowhere to be found. Almost a decade later, the long lost Ilysa Ramsay masterpiece has found its way into Mac Faraday’s hands and he can’t resist the urge to delve into the case. A world away, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; former JAG lawyer Joshua Thornton agrees to do a favor for the last person he would ever expect to do a favor—a convicted serial killer. The Solve the one murder wrongly attributed to him. Joshua finds an unexpected ally in Cameron Gates, a spunky detective who has reason to believe the young woman known to the media only as Jane Doe, Victim Number Four, was the victim of a copycat. Together, Joshua and Cameron set out to light a flame under the cold case only to find that someone behind the scenes wants the case to remain cold, and is willing to kill to keep it that way. Little do these detectives know that the paths of their respective cases are on a collision course when they follow the clues to bring them together in a showdown with a killer who’s got a talent for murder!
232 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 7, 2012
90 people are currently reading
169 people want to read
About the author
Lauren Carr
52 books402 followersLauren Carr is the international best-selling author of the Mac Faraday, Lovers in Crime, and Thorny Rose Mysteries—over twenty titles across three fast-paced mystery series filled with twists and turns!
Book reviewers and readers alike rave about how Lauren Carr’s seamlessly crosses genres to include mystery, suspense, romance, and humor.
Lauren is a popular speaker who has made appearances at schools, youth groups, and on author panels at conventions. She lives with her husband, and three dogs on a mountain in Harpers Ferry, WV.
Book reviewers and readers alike rave about how Lauren Carr’s seamlessly crosses genres to include mystery, suspense, romance, and humor.
Lauren is a popular speaker who has made appearances at schools, youth groups, and on author panels at conventions. She lives with her husband, and three dogs on a mountain in Harpers Ferry, WV.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
May 31, 2012
The name is Gnarly. I am a really great German Shepherd who lives in a mansion. Not bad for a dog. The guy who lives here is a millionaire several times over but I have the run of the place and usually do my own thing. I was dishonorably discharged from the United States Army but that really has no bearing on this story but I thought you might want to know before hear it from someone else. Living with Mac Faraday is definitely great because you never know what’s going to happen, who is going to wind up dead and what help he is going to need from me to solve the murder. It all started in 2006 on a beautiful day before I was born and came to live here. Several police officers were called to scene of two different deaths. One was said to be a murder and the other an accident. The accident victim, Charlie Smith was not who he appeared to be. When the real Charlie Smith learned of the accident did not seem to care about the demise of the man in the accident. Turns out, Mr. Smith was a thief who enjoyed stealing the identities and of course funds of the victim whose identity he stole. The second death was a murder. Ilsya Ramsey was a noted artist and was about to have a showing at the Louvre in France. Completing her self-portrait the day before the murder she was excited about the showing but never shared her work before completing it.
Spencer Police Office David O’Callaghan is hot, smart and definitely the one officer you want handling any investigation. You should see the girls ogling him. On his way to Robin Spencer’s Labor Day celebration he gets called to a murder scene of a well-known artist. Ilysa Ramsey had just started taking the art world as the author states by storm when she is found murdered. Neal Hathaway might be rich and have power but all the money in the world could not revive or bring back his wife. Someone bludgeoned her to death. But, there is much more that I have to relate to you because we cannot forget Charlie Smith. Could these deaths be related?
Let me flash ahead to the present time where I can tell you first hand what is going on in Deep Creek Lake. I am Gnarly and as I said I have the run of the mansion. As two deliverymen find their way to my home, my curiosity got the better of me and I made sure to blindside them before they could deliver their package. Mac, our millionaire, has a flare for getting involved in mysteries and solving them.
Archie Monday was Robin Spencer’s assistant and lives in the guest cottage at Spencer Manor. A package, as I said, is about to be delivered to Mac that would once again envelop him into a murder investigation. But, having a serious mind of my own, I high jacked the deliverymen, disobeyed all of Mac’s commands, and definitely got everyone’s attention. What was in the box delivered that nobody but Mac and Archie were curious about? Let’s not forget me: Gnarly.
Let’s bring the past into the present and tie some events together right now. In this package is a letter addressed to Mac’s late mother, which explains its contents. Within this box was a painting by Ilysa Ramsey. The painting in question had been stolen and her murder is still unsolved. The value of the painting- priceless. Was Mac thrilled? That still remains to be seen because this book definitely has many different Shades Of Murder.
Deputy Police Chief Art Bogart was one of the officers, along with our Police Chief David O’Callaghan, who investigated this murder. Just in case you did not read the other books by Lauren Carr and have no idea just who this great guy is, Mac Faraday inherited millions of dollars, the estate, his mother who was a famous mystery writer’s journal and one hot half-brother named David. Hope you got it all.
The Ilysa Ramsay painting is a self-portrait adding to its value. Within the painting were family members, friends and associates. The one person not in the picture was her husband. As Bogart identifies each person in the painting to Mac, they formulate in their minds which one or ones might be suspects. Since Ilysa was just starting to become part of the art world and her husband was a big patron of the arts, completing this painting before the showing was paramount to her. The showing was at the Louvre in France. As the events are recounted, they state that she had a disagreement with her manager who has since disappeared.
Let’s add another player and hot guy to the plot, who many of you might know from Lauren Carr’s earlier novels. Hancock, County, West Virginia prosecuting attorney, Joshua Thornton is visiting SCI Green Maximum Prison to see serial rapist and murderer Oliver Cartwright. Asked to see him by Reverend Brody, Cartwright wants his name cleared for a murder he claims he never committed.
Cartwright was convicted of killing and raping seven women. But, he claims only six. Jane Doe, or Victim Number Four, was not his and he wants Joshua to investigate the murder and find her killer. Joshua promises to help only for Jane Doe’s family. Searching for the names of the lead investigators led him to Pennsylvania and a chilly welcome from the officers at the police station. As the discussion continues with the officers, the reader and, of course, me, wonder if they ever really looked past Cartwright for the murder. The end result is not what you would expect and what follows adds not only humor to the plot, but explains why I said this guy was not only a great prosecutor, but hot too. A phone call from Detective Cameron Gates would change everything as they decide to meet in an unusual way and manner. But, let’s not forget her friend Irving. As Gates reveals the information from her informant known as the Ghost, more information about Jane Doe comes to light. But, Joshua notices something that everyone overlooked. Could this be a copycat murder? Where did this victim come from and was that the reason no one identified her? But, Gates had more than just the case in mind after meeting Joshua.
Let’s get back to our millionaire and the painting. Staring into the face of Ilysa, Mac gets a strange feeling that she is crying out to him to find the killer. Mac, David and Bogart pay a visit to the Hathaway’s and their meeting is quite telling. Meeting the different family members, you begin to wonder whether they even cared about poor Ilysa. When Mac tells Neal and his son Scott that they are going to reopen the case and investigate, Neal’s primary concern is the painting that Mac has in his possession and not the murder. It takes Neal a while to register why they are there. We meet Rachel, who is Scott’s wife, and the housekeeper Greta.
When the fingerprints come back from the forensic lab what they find out will definitely astound the reader as author Lauren Carr once again supplies a twist so devilish and cunning you won’t see it coming. Would you believe that the murder that took place in 2004 was the second murder of the same person? How can that be? Well, some facts cannot be revealed and only if the author allows me to bark out the evidence (and she won’t) will I divulge the answer to that question and many more. Besides I was able to get the police officer’s submarine sandwich away from him just by being cunning and staring at him. But, what follows is even more mindboggling as an another murder similar to Ilysa’s occurs, her manager is found dead and the pieces of the canvas will definitely paint a whole new picture when the portrait of this killer is finally done. Just what was behind the murders and what was Ilysa really doing besides painting? How was one police detective involved and why?
What happens next to Mac really is quite startling as his boat goes up in flames. I protect everyone and the house and get the thief, too, but will I be praised for my efforts? Only trying to do my job. Thank goodness Archie is on my side or they might send poor me to the pound or worse! Deceit, lies, betrayals, cover-ups and much more before all is said and done. Wait until you see how this plays out and who killed Ilysa and who lives to see another day. Don’t worry, I will be back again as soon as this amazing author decides to create another plot for me and, of course, Mac. Maybe he and Joshua will team up for good or maybe they will be smart enough to deputize me once and for all. This is Gnarly until next time.
Spencer Police Office David O’Callaghan is hot, smart and definitely the one officer you want handling any investigation. You should see the girls ogling him. On his way to Robin Spencer’s Labor Day celebration he gets called to a murder scene of a well-known artist. Ilysa Ramsey had just started taking the art world as the author states by storm when she is found murdered. Neal Hathaway might be rich and have power but all the money in the world could not revive or bring back his wife. Someone bludgeoned her to death. But, there is much more that I have to relate to you because we cannot forget Charlie Smith. Could these deaths be related?
Let me flash ahead to the present time where I can tell you first hand what is going on in Deep Creek Lake. I am Gnarly and as I said I have the run of the mansion. As two deliverymen find their way to my home, my curiosity got the better of me and I made sure to blindside them before they could deliver their package. Mac, our millionaire, has a flare for getting involved in mysteries and solving them.
Archie Monday was Robin Spencer’s assistant and lives in the guest cottage at Spencer Manor. A package, as I said, is about to be delivered to Mac that would once again envelop him into a murder investigation. But, having a serious mind of my own, I high jacked the deliverymen, disobeyed all of Mac’s commands, and definitely got everyone’s attention. What was in the box delivered that nobody but Mac and Archie were curious about? Let’s not forget me: Gnarly.
Let’s bring the past into the present and tie some events together right now. In this package is a letter addressed to Mac’s late mother, which explains its contents. Within this box was a painting by Ilysa Ramsey. The painting in question had been stolen and her murder is still unsolved. The value of the painting- priceless. Was Mac thrilled? That still remains to be seen because this book definitely has many different Shades Of Murder.
Deputy Police Chief Art Bogart was one of the officers, along with our Police Chief David O’Callaghan, who investigated this murder. Just in case you did not read the other books by Lauren Carr and have no idea just who this great guy is, Mac Faraday inherited millions of dollars, the estate, his mother who was a famous mystery writer’s journal and one hot half-brother named David. Hope you got it all.
The Ilysa Ramsay painting is a self-portrait adding to its value. Within the painting were family members, friends and associates. The one person not in the picture was her husband. As Bogart identifies each person in the painting to Mac, they formulate in their minds which one or ones might be suspects. Since Ilysa was just starting to become part of the art world and her husband was a big patron of the arts, completing this painting before the showing was paramount to her. The showing was at the Louvre in France. As the events are recounted, they state that she had a disagreement with her manager who has since disappeared.
Let’s add another player and hot guy to the plot, who many of you might know from Lauren Carr’s earlier novels. Hancock, County, West Virginia prosecuting attorney, Joshua Thornton is visiting SCI Green Maximum Prison to see serial rapist and murderer Oliver Cartwright. Asked to see him by Reverend Brody, Cartwright wants his name cleared for a murder he claims he never committed.
Cartwright was convicted of killing and raping seven women. But, he claims only six. Jane Doe, or Victim Number Four, was not his and he wants Joshua to investigate the murder and find her killer. Joshua promises to help only for Jane Doe’s family. Searching for the names of the lead investigators led him to Pennsylvania and a chilly welcome from the officers at the police station. As the discussion continues with the officers, the reader and, of course, me, wonder if they ever really looked past Cartwright for the murder. The end result is not what you would expect and what follows adds not only humor to the plot, but explains why I said this guy was not only a great prosecutor, but hot too. A phone call from Detective Cameron Gates would change everything as they decide to meet in an unusual way and manner. But, let’s not forget her friend Irving. As Gates reveals the information from her informant known as the Ghost, more information about Jane Doe comes to light. But, Joshua notices something that everyone overlooked. Could this be a copycat murder? Where did this victim come from and was that the reason no one identified her? But, Gates had more than just the case in mind after meeting Joshua.
Let’s get back to our millionaire and the painting. Staring into the face of Ilysa, Mac gets a strange feeling that she is crying out to him to find the killer. Mac, David and Bogart pay a visit to the Hathaway’s and their meeting is quite telling. Meeting the different family members, you begin to wonder whether they even cared about poor Ilysa. When Mac tells Neal and his son Scott that they are going to reopen the case and investigate, Neal’s primary concern is the painting that Mac has in his possession and not the murder. It takes Neal a while to register why they are there. We meet Rachel, who is Scott’s wife, and the housekeeper Greta.
When the fingerprints come back from the forensic lab what they find out will definitely astound the reader as author Lauren Carr once again supplies a twist so devilish and cunning you won’t see it coming. Would you believe that the murder that took place in 2004 was the second murder of the same person? How can that be? Well, some facts cannot be revealed and only if the author allows me to bark out the evidence (and she won’t) will I divulge the answer to that question and many more. Besides I was able to get the police officer’s submarine sandwich away from him just by being cunning and staring at him. But, what follows is even more mindboggling as an another murder similar to Ilysa’s occurs, her manager is found dead and the pieces of the canvas will definitely paint a whole new picture when the portrait of this killer is finally done. Just what was behind the murders and what was Ilysa really doing besides painting? How was one police detective involved and why?
What happens next to Mac really is quite startling as his boat goes up in flames. I protect everyone and the house and get the thief, too, but will I be praised for my efforts? Only trying to do my job. Thank goodness Archie is on my side or they might send poor me to the pound or worse! Deceit, lies, betrayals, cover-ups and much more before all is said and done. Wait until you see how this plays out and who killed Ilysa and who lives to see another day. Don’t worry, I will be back again as soon as this amazing author decides to create another plot for me and, of course, Mac. Maybe he and Joshua will team up for good or maybe they will be smart enough to deputize me once and for all. This is Gnarly until next time.
June 15, 2012
Have you ever had one of those moments where you had put down a book to do something and when you came back to it you were completely lost? That happened to me while I was reading this book. You see there are two murders, but one story. Two investigations, leading … well I’m not telling you that, you’ll have to read for yourself. Anyway I had to run an errand right when the story shifted from the first murder to the second murder and I got a wee bit confused since the murder I came back to was not the one I left, and neither was the investigator. Anyway, I sorted that out quickly and got back on track.
There are a LOT of people in this story, but the main people are easy to keep track of once you get into the flow of the story. The story is fast paced, angst ridden, has touches of romance and whimsy, hard-boiled detective work, with just the right amount of humor to off-set the drama. I quickly got very involved with the investigations and the investigators. I worried that they would mess it up, but thankfully they eventually figured it out… and I was totally wrong anyway. It’s a good thing I’m not a detective. I love CSI, NCIS, Criminal Minds, etc. but I always get the ending wrong. Occasionally I get the right bad guy, but then again even a broken clock is right twice a day.
This book is totally worth reading. I really came to care for the people in the story, and the animals were a hoot. There is Gnarly, the kleptomaniac, toll-bridge operating, dishonorably discharged dog who rules his house, and then there is Irving, the milk drinking, skunk look-a-like, Main Coon cat. And that’s just the pets, wait until you meet the people.
I give this book 4.5 out of 5 clouds. A good read!
This product or book may have been distributed for review; this in no way affects my opinions or reviews
There are a LOT of people in this story, but the main people are easy to keep track of once you get into the flow of the story. The story is fast paced, angst ridden, has touches of romance and whimsy, hard-boiled detective work, with just the right amount of humor to off-set the drama. I quickly got very involved with the investigations and the investigators. I worried that they would mess it up, but thankfully they eventually figured it out… and I was totally wrong anyway. It’s a good thing I’m not a detective. I love CSI, NCIS, Criminal Minds, etc. but I always get the ending wrong. Occasionally I get the right bad guy, but then again even a broken clock is right twice a day.
This book is totally worth reading. I really came to care for the people in the story, and the animals were a hoot. There is Gnarly, the kleptomaniac, toll-bridge operating, dishonorably discharged dog who rules his house, and then there is Irving, the milk drinking, skunk look-a-like, Main Coon cat. And that’s just the pets, wait until you meet the people.
I give this book 4.5 out of 5 clouds. A good read!
This product or book may have been distributed for review; this in no way affects my opinions or reviews
September 4, 2012
It seemed only right that I picked up Shades of Murder by Lauren Carr this weekend...
After all, one of the murders had taken place on that same weekend several years ago...
But, with the third Mac Faraday mystery, Carr has outdone herself and given us a double-whammy! Not only two murders, but two sets of investigators! I won't say it's the best because I love them all... And, don't get me wrong, I love Gnarly, who in this novel succeeds in preventing the theft of a valuable painting...
(Excerpt)"When Joshua pulled up to park behind her car, he
saw that her attention was divided between him
and something next to her on the tailgate. At first,
he thought it was a doll or stuffed animal that she
was stroking. Then when he pulled his SUV up
closer, it rolled over to let her scratch his tummy.
It was a live animal with long black fur...and a
white stripe...down the length of its back. Is that
a skunk she's petting?...
"The animal paced back and forth on the tailgate.
As if she might be unaware of what she had been
petting, Joshua asked her in a low voice, "Is that
a skunk?"
"No." She dug into the bag for the milk. "That's
Irving. He's a Maine Coon. He only looks like a
skunk.
"That's a cat?" Carrying the shakes, Joshua went
up to the tailgate for a closer look.
"Irving was much larger than a skunk. With his
silky black and white coat, which had the identical
markings of a skunk, and white tufts that shot out
of his black ears, he could be easily mistaken for the
odious forest creature.
"Seeing food coming his way, Irving rose up on his
hind legs to inspect the milkshakes..."
But, wow, a Maine Coon who is black with a long white stripe! Who does indeed look like a skunk! Hey, you can't beat that for a new character, now can you?!!! Of course, I couldn't show a real picture of him--after all, he's a big star by now, I am sure! But I did go out and buy the two books that were about the other character I had just met--Joshua Thornton, who had come on the scene earlier than Mac Faraday (see links to my reviews below for first two in this series), but have now been made available by Lauren Carr's new publishing company!
Anyway, while Joshua Thornton and Detective Cameron Gates, who travels everywhere with Irving, began working together on one murder, Mac Faraday began working on another murder. Quite interesting how they all got involved and you'll much enjoy that background. But let me tell you a little more about the latter since the book cover has the picture of that lady...
Once again Mac has received another inheritance. If you're a fan of his series, you may be caught off guard as I was when, in the Prologue, Robin Spencer is alive! So that's a tiny giveaway because she's really not, you know, as Mac has since inherited her fortune, home and Inn as a result of her death (in the first book). This time, one of Robin's old crime connections to gather information for her books, has left her a stolen painting that he had bought shortly after the murder of the woman in the painting, who was also the artist. Her last painting was now worth much!
But for Mac, it immediately presents him with what he loves better than the painting--a murder to be solved! The painting, by the way, also included smaller portraits of many of the people in her life--all of whom would now be considered "persons of interest..." Mac met first with the husband and realized that he was still heart-broken and probably had not been involved...so he went on from there!
But then as the investigations continue, soon Joshua and Cameron were on their way to Deep Creek, where Mac was! And they started talking...only to next have the FBI show up!
OK, I admit it! I believe this is the best yet from Lauren Carr! I loved the merge of characters from two different series and I hope to see more of this in the future! The complexity and meticulous details that allowed this shows what readers can expect from this author as she continues to excel as a mystery writer...Obviously, she's already a favorite author for me!
The emphasis on "whodunit" in Shades of Murder is bound to delight you as you stop throughout the book to mull over the clues, the characters, and consider who is guilty. I didn't identify that individual! Let me know if you did before it was revealed! Thoroughly enjoyable read for mystery lovers!
GABixlerReviews
After all, one of the murders had taken place on that same weekend several years ago...
But, with the third Mac Faraday mystery, Carr has outdone herself and given us a double-whammy! Not only two murders, but two sets of investigators! I won't say it's the best because I love them all... And, don't get me wrong, I love Gnarly, who in this novel succeeds in preventing the theft of a valuable painting...
(Excerpt)"When Joshua pulled up to park behind her car, he
saw that her attention was divided between him
and something next to her on the tailgate. At first,
he thought it was a doll or stuffed animal that she
was stroking. Then when he pulled his SUV up
closer, it rolled over to let her scratch his tummy.
It was a live animal with long black fur...and a
white stripe...down the length of its back. Is that
a skunk she's petting?...
"The animal paced back and forth on the tailgate.
As if she might be unaware of what she had been
petting, Joshua asked her in a low voice, "Is that
a skunk?"
"No." She dug into the bag for the milk. "That's
Irving. He's a Maine Coon. He only looks like a
skunk.
"That's a cat?" Carrying the shakes, Joshua went
up to the tailgate for a closer look.
"Irving was much larger than a skunk. With his
silky black and white coat, which had the identical
markings of a skunk, and white tufts that shot out
of his black ears, he could be easily mistaken for the
odious forest creature.
"Seeing food coming his way, Irving rose up on his
hind legs to inspect the milkshakes..."
But, wow, a Maine Coon who is black with a long white stripe! Who does indeed look like a skunk! Hey, you can't beat that for a new character, now can you?!!! Of course, I couldn't show a real picture of him--after all, he's a big star by now, I am sure! But I did go out and buy the two books that were about the other character I had just met--Joshua Thornton, who had come on the scene earlier than Mac Faraday (see links to my reviews below for first two in this series), but have now been made available by Lauren Carr's new publishing company!
Anyway, while Joshua Thornton and Detective Cameron Gates, who travels everywhere with Irving, began working together on one murder, Mac Faraday began working on another murder. Quite interesting how they all got involved and you'll much enjoy that background. But let me tell you a little more about the latter since the book cover has the picture of that lady...
Once again Mac has received another inheritance. If you're a fan of his series, you may be caught off guard as I was when, in the Prologue, Robin Spencer is alive! So that's a tiny giveaway because she's really not, you know, as Mac has since inherited her fortune, home and Inn as a result of her death (in the first book). This time, one of Robin's old crime connections to gather information for her books, has left her a stolen painting that he had bought shortly after the murder of the woman in the painting, who was also the artist. Her last painting was now worth much!
But for Mac, it immediately presents him with what he loves better than the painting--a murder to be solved! The painting, by the way, also included smaller portraits of many of the people in her life--all of whom would now be considered "persons of interest..." Mac met first with the husband and realized that he was still heart-broken and probably had not been involved...so he went on from there!
But then as the investigations continue, soon Joshua and Cameron were on their way to Deep Creek, where Mac was! And they started talking...only to next have the FBI show up!
OK, I admit it! I believe this is the best yet from Lauren Carr! I loved the merge of characters from two different series and I hope to see more of this in the future! The complexity and meticulous details that allowed this shows what readers can expect from this author as she continues to excel as a mystery writer...Obviously, she's already a favorite author for me!
The emphasis on "whodunit" in Shades of Murder is bound to delight you as you stop throughout the book to mull over the clues, the characters, and consider who is guilty. I didn't identify that individual! Let me know if you did before it was revealed! Thoroughly enjoyable read for mystery lovers!
GABixlerReviews
June 19, 2020
Shades of Murder a Mac Faraday Mystery by Lauren Carr
5 Stars Shades of Murder is a great mystery story that takes place with more than one set of detectives investigating a case and how it all melds todgether. It kept me guessing all the time. I did guess a small part but no where near guessing all that went on. This is my first Mac Faraday Mystery and I think I am going to buy some of Lauren Carr's other books today. Thier were no sex scenes they showed the couples together but thats all maybe a kiss or waking up alone. I really like that at the beginning the story she has cast of characters, who they are. So if you forget who that person was you can flip to the front and be able to place the character. Which I did at one point. The first story took place at Deep Creek Lake, Maryland sept 6,2004 with David O'Callaghan as one of the Officers who worked the case before it went cold. He is now chief Police. Ilysa Ramsay was the victim and married to a rich rocket scientist that had a lot of defense contracts. Mac Faraday's just inheirted a painting that was stolen when Ilysa was murdered and sold to a fence to a Mob boss. So Mac wants to solve the cold case. Mac's half brother is David. Everybody is excited about the painting showing up thats leads to some clues to what happened the night of the murder. Joshua Thronton Hancock was asked to go to a prison to help a serial killer Oliver who was found guilty of 6 women's murder but everyone thinks it was 7. Oliver wants to do some good before he dies. He wants Mac's help to solve who victim #4 was and who murdered her because no one was looking thinking. Because everyone believes he killed her. Mac believes him and will do it for victim #4. Mac who is on vacation he is a proscuter asks for files on victim #4 but Lieutenant Sherry Bixby does not want him to look into it. far as she is concerned its a closed case and kicks him out. Detective Cameron Gates who worked the case slipped him the files behind Sherry's back and was willing to work to solve it they never did believe it was Oliver but a copycat. Cameron sees something that helps open that cold case up. Thier are a lot of unanswered questions in all 3 cases that become opened and lead to other questions. Its a fun mystery like the characters and the animals that are a hoot too. I want to read more books like this one soon. I was given this ebook to read in exchange for honest review from Netgalley. 05/15/2012 PUB Acorn Book Services
5 Stars Shades of Murder is a great mystery story that takes place with more than one set of detectives investigating a case and how it all melds todgether. It kept me guessing all the time. I did guess a small part but no where near guessing all that went on. This is my first Mac Faraday Mystery and I think I am going to buy some of Lauren Carr's other books today. Thier were no sex scenes they showed the couples together but thats all maybe a kiss or waking up alone. I really like that at the beginning the story she has cast of characters, who they are. So if you forget who that person was you can flip to the front and be able to place the character. Which I did at one point. The first story took place at Deep Creek Lake, Maryland sept 6,2004 with David O'Callaghan as one of the Officers who worked the case before it went cold. He is now chief Police. Ilysa Ramsay was the victim and married to a rich rocket scientist that had a lot of defense contracts. Mac Faraday's just inheirted a painting that was stolen when Ilysa was murdered and sold to a fence to a Mob boss. So Mac wants to solve the cold case. Mac's half brother is David. Everybody is excited about the painting showing up thats leads to some clues to what happened the night of the murder. Joshua Thronton Hancock was asked to go to a prison to help a serial killer Oliver who was found guilty of 6 women's murder but everyone thinks it was 7. Oliver wants to do some good before he dies. He wants Mac's help to solve who victim #4 was and who murdered her because no one was looking thinking. Because everyone believes he killed her. Mac believes him and will do it for victim #4. Mac who is on vacation he is a proscuter asks for files on victim #4 but Lieutenant Sherry Bixby does not want him to look into it. far as she is concerned its a closed case and kicks him out. Detective Cameron Gates who worked the case slipped him the files behind Sherry's back and was willing to work to solve it they never did believe it was Oliver but a copycat. Cameron sees something that helps open that cold case up. Thier are a lot of unanswered questions in all 3 cases that become opened and lead to other questions. Its a fun mystery like the characters and the animals that are a hoot too. I want to read more books like this one soon. I was given this ebook to read in exchange for honest review from Netgalley. 05/15/2012 PUB Acorn Book Services
June 22, 2012
Mac Faraday, a retired homicide detective, inherits a fortune. As a part of his inheritance, he gets his hands on a painting that has a murder attached to it. Of course he cannot walk away from something so intriguing and gets involved in long cold case. You see, Ilysa Ramsay had gifted the world this piece of masterpiece a decade earlier. The same day she was found dead in her studio and the painting had gone missing.
On the other hand, Joshua Thorton, a JAG Lawyer and a detective, Cameron Gates set out to solve a murder case that’s widely believed to be the work of a convicted serial killer. They however have reason to believe that in this particular case the victim was attacked and murder by a copycat.
Soon the separate worlds of Mac, Joshua and Cameron collide as their investigation leads them to one murderer who is willing to kill again to keep things under wraps.
The first thing that stands out in this book is the fact that there are two separate investigations involving two very different detectives – Mac Faraday and Joshua Thorton. It was definitely genius to put these two together as they have as many different shades amongst themselves as the murders in the plot. Then there are the other characters – a whole lot of them actually. Thankfully, the author had provided a list of the ‘Cast’ of the story at the very beginning and that made it much easier to keep track of who is who in the story. Ilysa Ramsay is an interesting character. She seemed as elusive as a character as the motive behind her murder. Then her family is quite as interesting – it seemed like they never really cared about her – putting them all on the top of the suspect list. Then there’s an FBI Agent, a serial killer, a security in charge and forensic technician. And oh let’s not forget Gnarly, Irving and Admiral!
The plot is really intriguing as it brings together two worlds and three murders. With more twists and turns than you can even start to expect, the plot keeps you on the edge and guessing. There’s a lot of mystery, drama, some humor and even a little bit of romance in this novel making it an all-round well balanced novel and an interesting and entertaining read.
I think I will just have to pick up the other books in the Mac Farraday & Joshua Thorton Series and hope that there’s more to come.
On the other hand, Joshua Thorton, a JAG Lawyer and a detective, Cameron Gates set out to solve a murder case that’s widely believed to be the work of a convicted serial killer. They however have reason to believe that in this particular case the victim was attacked and murder by a copycat.
Soon the separate worlds of Mac, Joshua and Cameron collide as their investigation leads them to one murderer who is willing to kill again to keep things under wraps.
The first thing that stands out in this book is the fact that there are two separate investigations involving two very different detectives – Mac Faraday and Joshua Thorton. It was definitely genius to put these two together as they have as many different shades amongst themselves as the murders in the plot. Then there are the other characters – a whole lot of them actually. Thankfully, the author had provided a list of the ‘Cast’ of the story at the very beginning and that made it much easier to keep track of who is who in the story. Ilysa Ramsay is an interesting character. She seemed as elusive as a character as the motive behind her murder. Then her family is quite as interesting – it seemed like they never really cared about her – putting them all on the top of the suspect list. Then there’s an FBI Agent, a serial killer, a security in charge and forensic technician. And oh let’s not forget Gnarly, Irving and Admiral!
The plot is really intriguing as it brings together two worlds and three murders. With more twists and turns than you can even start to expect, the plot keeps you on the edge and guessing. There’s a lot of mystery, drama, some humor and even a little bit of romance in this novel making it an all-round well balanced novel and an interesting and entertaining read.
I think I will just have to pick up the other books in the Mac Farraday & Joshua Thorton Series and hope that there’s more to come.
July 2, 2012
I'm so glad to have had a chance to read such great mysteries. Lauren Carr's Shades of Murder did not disappoint me in keeping up that trend.
A car accident. A murder. A stolen painting. A serial killer. Years after all occur, different investigators find themselves looking for the same person only to find more than they ever bargained for.
This was an excellent story with many storylines pulled together in a masterful way. What seems to be separate incidents becomes one with many participants. Ms. Carr does a wonderful job in keeping the reader hooked from page to page and creating such interesting characters that are deep and work well together.
You don't have to worry about excessive intimate scenes or foul language. Even murders are not terrible disgusting. This book was reminiscent of the old murder mysteries that I grew up reading and watching in the 70s and 80s.
This is a great summer read that you won't be disappointed in. Though I guessed early on who the murderer was, I was not left feeling empty handed. The story was wonderfully crafted and will have you wanting to finish it before the sun rises again.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I am a member of The Virtual Book Tour Cafe' and a copy of this book was provided to me by the author. Although payment may have been received by The Virtual Book Tour Cafe', no payment was received by me in exchange for this review nor was there an obligation to write a positive one. All opinions expressed here are entirely of my own and may not necessarily agree with those of the author, the book's publisher and publicist or the readers of this review. This disclosure is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255, Guides
A car accident. A murder. A stolen painting. A serial killer. Years after all occur, different investigators find themselves looking for the same person only to find more than they ever bargained for.
This was an excellent story with many storylines pulled together in a masterful way. What seems to be separate incidents becomes one with many participants. Ms. Carr does a wonderful job in keeping the reader hooked from page to page and creating such interesting characters that are deep and work well together.
You don't have to worry about excessive intimate scenes or foul language. Even murders are not terrible disgusting. This book was reminiscent of the old murder mysteries that I grew up reading and watching in the 70s and 80s.
This is a great summer read that you won't be disappointed in. Though I guessed early on who the murderer was, I was not left feeling empty handed. The story was wonderfully crafted and will have you wanting to finish it before the sun rises again.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I am a member of The Virtual Book Tour Cafe' and a copy of this book was provided to me by the author. Although payment may have been received by The Virtual Book Tour Cafe', no payment was received by me in exchange for this review nor was there an obligation to write a positive one. All opinions expressed here are entirely of my own and may not necessarily agree with those of the author, the book's publisher and publicist or the readers of this review. This disclosure is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255, Guides
May 22, 2012
Can two completely different murders in different places and years apart be connected? That is the question that the Spencer Police Department and Mac Faraday have to figure out. On the surface, it appears like a simple case of a murdered artist. That is, until you look beneath the surface where you find another murder years earlier. Could as they say.....a picture is worth a thousand words be a clue in the revealing of the murderer and other shady dealings?
Ilysa Ramsay, a famous artist and wife of a CEO, was found bludgeoned to death in her studio and her final painting was stolen. The stolen painting was mailed by a friend to Mac's mother who had passed away, and he figured something fishy was going on, and the case was re-opened.
Re-opened to the tune of new characters and a new murder in another great Lauren Carr mystery. The familiar characters of Mac, Gnarly, Archie, and David made you feel at home while reading. The new characters made the read intriguing. Ms. Carr definitely comes up with great twists and turns and plots that are hard to beat. And even better is the fact that Mac and Archie finally became romantically involved.....we all wanted that to happen…thanks, Lauren.
You will be amazed at how cleverly Ms. Carr put the story together and wove two murders into one. It is a murder mystery with a storyline that I have never seen before. This is her third book that I have read, and I enjoyed each one of them....the town, the characters, the ambiance of the Spencer Inn, the creativity, and the surprise endings are worth the reads.
Keep these mysteries coming, Ms. Carr. 5/5
Ilysa Ramsay, a famous artist and wife of a CEO, was found bludgeoned to death in her studio and her final painting was stolen. The stolen painting was mailed by a friend to Mac's mother who had passed away, and he figured something fishy was going on, and the case was re-opened.
Re-opened to the tune of new characters and a new murder in another great Lauren Carr mystery. The familiar characters of Mac, Gnarly, Archie, and David made you feel at home while reading. The new characters made the read intriguing. Ms. Carr definitely comes up with great twists and turns and plots that are hard to beat. And even better is the fact that Mac and Archie finally became romantically involved.....we all wanted that to happen…thanks, Lauren.
You will be amazed at how cleverly Ms. Carr put the story together and wove two murders into one. It is a murder mystery with a storyline that I have never seen before. This is her third book that I have read, and I enjoyed each one of them....the town, the characters, the ambiance of the Spencer Inn, the creativity, and the surprise endings are worth the reads.
Keep these mysteries coming, Ms. Carr. 5/5
June 18, 2012
Ilysa Ramsay is an artistic genius who has just unveiled her latest masterpiece. The police are summoned when she is found in her studio, bludgeoned to death, and the painting has been stolen. Flash forward to a decade later, and the stolen painting has been willed to Mac Faraday. Mac decides to take another look into the case. At the same time, a convicted serial killer has a strange request: he wants someone to solve the one murder attributed to him that he did not do.
"Shades of Murder" was an enjoyable murder mystery. While the time jump in the storyline was a bit confusing at times, and the cast of characters was a little too much for me to follow, I still liked it. It would have made a great beach read. Definitely a 4 star novel.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I am a member of BK Walker Book Tours and a copy of this book was provided to me by the author. Although payment may have been received by BK Walker Book Tours, no payment was received by me in exchange for this review. There was no obligation to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are entirely my own and may not necessarily agree with those of the author, publisher, publicist, or readers of this review. This disclosure is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision’s 16 CFR, Part 255, Guides Concerning Use of Endorcements and Testimonials in Advertising*
"Shades of Murder" was an enjoyable murder mystery. While the time jump in the storyline was a bit confusing at times, and the cast of characters was a little too much for me to follow, I still liked it. It would have made a great beach read. Definitely a 4 star novel.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I am a member of BK Walker Book Tours and a copy of this book was provided to me by the author. Although payment may have been received by BK Walker Book Tours, no payment was received by me in exchange for this review. There was no obligation to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are entirely my own and may not necessarily agree with those of the author, publisher, publicist, or readers of this review. This disclosure is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision’s 16 CFR, Part 255, Guides Concerning Use of Endorcements and Testimonials in Advertising*
July 21, 2012
This was a rollercoaster of a ride! I’ve read the other two Mac Faraday murder mysteries, and I’ve got to say, Carr does a phenomenal job writing enticing murder mysteries that keep the reader guessing throughout. Like her other novels, I wasn’t able to come close to guessing the culprit until it was spelled out for me by Faraday himself. And what an awesome mystery! There were so many twists and turns, I had a great time trying to figure it all out.
Gnarly, Faraday’s cleptomatic German shepherd, and Archie Monday, Faraday’s sarcastic and witty lover, make for great comedy while the mystery surrounding a murdered artist, a lost painting, the body of a Jane Doe, and an eccentric family begins to unfold. Of course, as you can already tell, I really enjoyed this novel. Carr has such a way with words, and her ability to spin a story is amazing. If you’re looking for a great murder mystery, then look no further—Carr’s novels are the way to go.
To see my full review:
http://bookvacations.wordpress.com/20...
Gnarly, Faraday’s cleptomatic German shepherd, and Archie Monday, Faraday’s sarcastic and witty lover, make for great comedy while the mystery surrounding a murdered artist, a lost painting, the body of a Jane Doe, and an eccentric family begins to unfold. Of course, as you can already tell, I really enjoyed this novel. Carr has such a way with words, and her ability to spin a story is amazing. If you’re looking for a great murder mystery, then look no further—Carr’s novels are the way to go.
To see my full review:
http://bookvacations.wordpress.com/20...
June 27, 2012
Okay, what do you get when you mix together a klepto German Shepard, a cat that looks like a skunk, and a stolen piece of art? Hmmm...A Lauren Carr mystery, of course! And this one is a real piece of work. Mystery writer Lauren Carr writes two series: the Joshua Thorton mystery series and the Mac Faraday mystery series. In her latest release, SHADES OF MURDER, she has brought these two detectives together to solve several murders and has thrown in some romance to add some sizzle.
This is a whodunit that you can't put down until the murderer is unveiled. Carr is a master at weaving a web of suspense around her characters with some entertaining tricks by Gnarly, Mac Faraday's ornery German Shepard--this is a must read--on the beach, on a long vacation drive, or near a cozy fireplace if you don't get around to it this summer, but don't miss SHADES OF MURDER or you'll be missing out! I give this book 5 biscuits (for Gnarly, of course)
This is a whodunit that you can't put down until the murderer is unveiled. Carr is a master at weaving a web of suspense around her characters with some entertaining tricks by Gnarly, Mac Faraday's ornery German Shepard--this is a must read--on the beach, on a long vacation drive, or near a cozy fireplace if you don't get around to it this summer, but don't miss SHADES OF MURDER or you'll be missing out! I give this book 5 biscuits (for Gnarly, of course)
June 20, 2012
Two unsolved murders, a stolen painting, and assorted detectives on a collision course as they all search for clues brings together an intriguing cast of characters in Shades of Murder: A Mac Faraday Mystery.
In the beginning, Mac is stunned by another "inheritance," a stolen painting; its appearance at his front door also raises interesting questions about the artist, who was murdered a few years before. The painting had supposedly been stolen at the time of the murder.
What do Mac and his sidekick Archie discover in their quest for answers? And how do Cameron Gates, a detective in Pennsylvania, and Joshua Thornton, a retired attorney, figure into the mix? How do two murders, years apart, connect with one another, and who is behind all the nefarious deeds?
To find out more, go to: http://takingarisk.wordpress.com/2012...
In the beginning, Mac is stunned by another "inheritance," a stolen painting; its appearance at his front door also raises interesting questions about the artist, who was murdered a few years before. The painting had supposedly been stolen at the time of the murder.
What do Mac and his sidekick Archie discover in their quest for answers? And how do Cameron Gates, a detective in Pennsylvania, and Joshua Thornton, a retired attorney, figure into the mix? How do two murders, years apart, connect with one another, and who is behind all the nefarious deeds?
To find out more, go to: http://takingarisk.wordpress.com/2012...
April 4, 2013
Lauren Carr writes delicious stories that happen to be mysteries. In this book of the Faraday series, she continues to develop the characters so that you feel you could know them. She conveys a strong sense of place. And while the action is fast and furious, it is leavened with a healthy dollop of humor. Another winning entry in a great series.
As an aside, I had asked my library to get this book for me. They tried, but weren't able to find a copy they could borrow for me. However, they advised it was available on Kindle. When I went to Amazon to see what was what, I found it was only 99 cents! For anyone interested, they have the whole series at that price.
As an aside, I had asked my library to get this book for me. They tried, but weren't able to find a copy they could borrow for me. However, they advised it was available on Kindle. When I went to Amazon to see what was what, I found it was only 99 cents! For anyone interested, they have the whole series at that price.
July 14, 2014
I can always count on a fun, interesting read with Lauren Carr. Her characters are always quick to grab my interest. The main characters, Mac Faraday and his "group" are people you wish were a part of your own life. In this title, we are introduced to Joshua Thornton and Cameron Gates, the main characters in Ms. Carr's "Lovers in Crime" series. We are also introduced to Gates' cat, Irving, who has the unpleasant distinction of looking just like a skunk! Like all of Ms. Carr's characters, Thornton and Gates grabbed my interest right from the start. This was a thoroughly enjoyable read. I can't wait to read the rest of Lauren Carr's published works!
November 25, 2012
The style of this book brought back fond memories of the Nancy Drew and Hardy Boys mysteries. A super sleuth escapade where two mysteries tangle together and then unravel at the end for the big reveal. The addition of former prosecuting attorney Joshua Thornton and detective Cameron Gates to the mix is a welcome one. A fresh story line added into the well constructed world of Mac Faraday. Hopefully this won't be the last time Mac and his gal Archie Monday get a little help from their new friends.
November 1, 2012
An Original Who Done It
Shades of Murder followed the ‘who done it format’ but the story was very original. So many possibilities, great characters and last minute twists kept me entertained to the end. Lauren does a great job conveying the action scenes and giving the characters depth. Best of all was Gnarly! Read the book to see what I mean.
Shades of Murder followed the ‘who done it format’ but the story was very original. So many possibilities, great characters and last minute twists kept me entertained to the end. Lauren does a great job conveying the action scenes and giving the characters depth. Best of all was Gnarly! Read the book to see what I mean.
July 28, 2012
Lauren Carr’s Shades of Murder is a complex, complicated mystery with multiple sleuths. These sleuths come together from her previous mystery novels. If you are a fan, you will
particularly enjoy this book. It holds many surprises, a fine entertainment for mystery readers.
particularly enjoy this book. It holds many surprises, a fine entertainment for mystery readers.
April 1, 2013
This series gets better and better. More action, fewer coincidences, fun twist, turns and serious intrigue. I know Carr has a series about ex Jag lawyer Joshua Thornton but I had never read them. I will be checking into them since meeting him in this book.
July 17, 2012
Oh, great murder mystery, very complex, and excellent writing! Loved it!
August 11, 2012
great mystery to read!
September 4, 2012
The third in an outstanding mystery series. Mac, Archie, and Gnarly the dog, are extremely likable and the mystery is always intriguing. Hope there are more to come in this series.
August 22, 2015
Very interesting characters and plot. Was free on kindle
October 23, 2012
really enjoyed this mystery. and am looking for more now.
February 8, 2013
So cute, love the animals - good mystery, a fun read!
March 24, 2013
I LOVE THIS SERIES. GNARLY IS GREAT AS USUAL! CAN'T WAIT TO READ BLAST FROM THE PAST.
May 10, 2017
This is the third book in the series and I received this book in exchange for an honest review. This book was very easy to follow along, I didn't even notice that this was a series until I finished the book. I received the audio version of the book, I loved the voices and personality the narrator throws in the mix. Narrators like this one, gets more readers interested in audio books. My daughter hates reading and on our commute to school, she loved hearing about Gnarly and the trouble he was up to.
I loved this book and was disappointed when it ended, (spoiler) I was pleasantly surprised that it had a series! I just knew there was more to these characters. I loved the cheesy lines from the senior officer! Mack and David, I believe there is more to their story and I really can't wait to find more out about them.
Alright, I guess I will get to the story, that's why you're reading my review right?
There are two murders in two different towns, is it possible for the same person to die twice? Something don't seem right to the officers/detectives and it is a strange coincidence that two cold cases are opened at the same time. You will love this book for it comedic quirks and suspenseful story line and you will be hooked! Don't let this book slip through your fingers!
Book Blurb:
Question: What do you get the man with everything?
Answer: When that man is the heir of the late mystery writer Robin Spencer, retired homicide detective Mac Faraday, you get him cold case to solve.
In Shades of Murder, Mac Faraday is once again the heir to an unbelievable fortune. This time the benefactor is a stolen art collector. But this isn’t just any stolen work-of-art—it’s a masterpiece with a murder attached to it.
Ilysa Ramsay was in the midst of taking the art world by storm with her artistic genius. Hours after unveiling her latest masterpiece—she is found dead in her Deep Creek Lake studio—and her painting is nowhere to be found.
Almost a decade later, the long lost Ilysa Ramsay masterpiece has found its way into Mac Faraday’s hands and he can’t resist the urge to delve into the case.
A world away, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; former JAG lawyer Joshua Thornton agrees to do a favor for the last person he would ever expect to do a favor—a convicted serial killer.
The Favor: Solve the one murder wrongly attributed to him.
Joshua finds an unexpected ally in Cameron Gates, a spunky detective who has reason to believe the young woman known to the media only as Jane Doe, Victim Number Four, was the victim of a copycat. Together, Joshua and Cameron set out to light a flame under the cold case only to find that someone behind the scenes wants the case to remain cold, and is willing to kill to keep it that way.
Little do these detectives know that the paths of their respective cases are on a collision course when they follow the clues to bring them together in a showdown with a killer who’s got a talent for murder!
I loved this book and was disappointed when it ended, (spoiler) I was pleasantly surprised that it had a series! I just knew there was more to these characters. I loved the cheesy lines from the senior officer! Mack and David, I believe there is more to their story and I really can't wait to find more out about them.
Alright, I guess I will get to the story, that's why you're reading my review right?
There are two murders in two different towns, is it possible for the same person to die twice? Something don't seem right to the officers/detectives and it is a strange coincidence that two cold cases are opened at the same time. You will love this book for it comedic quirks and suspenseful story line and you will be hooked! Don't let this book slip through your fingers!
Book Blurb:
Question: What do you get the man with everything?
Answer: When that man is the heir of the late mystery writer Robin Spencer, retired homicide detective Mac Faraday, you get him cold case to solve.
In Shades of Murder, Mac Faraday is once again the heir to an unbelievable fortune. This time the benefactor is a stolen art collector. But this isn’t just any stolen work-of-art—it’s a masterpiece with a murder attached to it.
Ilysa Ramsay was in the midst of taking the art world by storm with her artistic genius. Hours after unveiling her latest masterpiece—she is found dead in her Deep Creek Lake studio—and her painting is nowhere to be found.
Almost a decade later, the long lost Ilysa Ramsay masterpiece has found its way into Mac Faraday’s hands and he can’t resist the urge to delve into the case.
A world away, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; former JAG lawyer Joshua Thornton agrees to do a favor for the last person he would ever expect to do a favor—a convicted serial killer.
The Favor: Solve the one murder wrongly attributed to him.
Joshua finds an unexpected ally in Cameron Gates, a spunky detective who has reason to believe the young woman known to the media only as Jane Doe, Victim Number Four, was the victim of a copycat. Together, Joshua and Cameron set out to light a flame under the cold case only to find that someone behind the scenes wants the case to remain cold, and is willing to kill to keep it that way.
Little do these detectives know that the paths of their respective cases are on a collision course when they follow the clues to bring them together in a showdown with a killer who’s got a talent for murder!
June 18, 2017
Note: Even though this is Book 3 in the series, it works just fine as a stand alone.
Mac Faraday, a retired cop and the unexpected inheritor of a famed mystery writer’s fortune, decides to delve into a cold case file when a long-lost painting comes into his possession. With the help of his girlfriend Archie, his dog Gnarly, and his half-brother cop David, they may be able to untangle this cold case. Meanwhile in Pennsylvania, lawyer Joshua Thornton has agreed to look into yet a different cold case, one that nearly everyone assumes was committed by a serial killer who has been behind bars for years. Detective Cameron believes him and offer her aid along with a bit of mutual affection.
I really enjoyed this addition to the Faraday/Thornton murder mystery series. It was great seeing how Joshua’s and Cameron’s relationship got started. Cameron’s cat Irving was also a lot of fun and Joshua’s initial response to this ‘detective’ cat was amusing. Honestly, I love how forward Cameron is about everything. She makes no excuses or apologies for her cat and she gets her job done even if it means pissing off management. It’s great that she was the first to show real interest in starting a relationship.
I’ve read several Lauren Carr mysteries by now and I was guessing that the two cold cases were probably related somehow but the link between the two was not immediately obvious and for a good chunk of the tale, I thought that perhaps this book would be the odd ball. No worries! It’s not and I enjoyed how the author tied the two together.
In this particular book, Mac reveals that he’d like a little more out of his relationship with Archie and he doesn’t understand why she doesn’t sleep over, or why he’s not invited to sleep over at her place. After all, they have a fully affectionate relationship otherwise. The answer at the end of the book was amusing and I’m glad these two worked it out.
The murder mysteries themselves were very interesting. Initially, I was more interested in Joshua’s since it involved a serial killer, who is in prison, making a heartfelt plea to the lawyer to look into this particular Jane Doe, swearing he had nothing to do with her. That definitely piqued my interest. Faraday’s mystery took me a little longer to get interested in simply because it looked like so much was known about it all those years ago. However, it turns out that it’s not that simple. There’s plenty there for Mac and Archie to piece together.
I received a free copy of this book via iRead Book Tours.
The Narration: Mike Alger was a good fit for this tale. I liked his voice for Cameron quite a bit as he managed to sound like a mature yet playful woman who knows her mind. I also liked his voice for Mac, sounding decisive. He was great with the humor as well. I did feel his accent for Greta could have used some polishing.
Mac Faraday, a retired cop and the unexpected inheritor of a famed mystery writer’s fortune, decides to delve into a cold case file when a long-lost painting comes into his possession. With the help of his girlfriend Archie, his dog Gnarly, and his half-brother cop David, they may be able to untangle this cold case. Meanwhile in Pennsylvania, lawyer Joshua Thornton has agreed to look into yet a different cold case, one that nearly everyone assumes was committed by a serial killer who has been behind bars for years. Detective Cameron believes him and offer her aid along with a bit of mutual affection.
I really enjoyed this addition to the Faraday/Thornton murder mystery series. It was great seeing how Joshua’s and Cameron’s relationship got started. Cameron’s cat Irving was also a lot of fun and Joshua’s initial response to this ‘detective’ cat was amusing. Honestly, I love how forward Cameron is about everything. She makes no excuses or apologies for her cat and she gets her job done even if it means pissing off management. It’s great that she was the first to show real interest in starting a relationship.
I’ve read several Lauren Carr mysteries by now and I was guessing that the two cold cases were probably related somehow but the link between the two was not immediately obvious and for a good chunk of the tale, I thought that perhaps this book would be the odd ball. No worries! It’s not and I enjoyed how the author tied the two together.
In this particular book, Mac reveals that he’d like a little more out of his relationship with Archie and he doesn’t understand why she doesn’t sleep over, or why he’s not invited to sleep over at her place. After all, they have a fully affectionate relationship otherwise. The answer at the end of the book was amusing and I’m glad these two worked it out.
The murder mysteries themselves were very interesting. Initially, I was more interested in Joshua’s since it involved a serial killer, who is in prison, making a heartfelt plea to the lawyer to look into this particular Jane Doe, swearing he had nothing to do with her. That definitely piqued my interest. Faraday’s mystery took me a little longer to get interested in simply because it looked like so much was known about it all those years ago. However, it turns out that it’s not that simple. There’s plenty there for Mac and Archie to piece together.
I received a free copy of this book via iRead Book Tours.
The Narration: Mike Alger was a good fit for this tale. I liked his voice for Cameron quite a bit as he managed to sound like a mature yet playful woman who knows her mind. I also liked his voice for Mac, sounding decisive. He was great with the humor as well. I did feel his accent for Greta could have used some polishing.
June 23, 2022
This would be a masterpiece in the art world. The author used words to paint on her chosen canvas, creating a mystery that is not only colourful but fun and engaging. My type of art work and I loved. The characters are what makes this series so enjoyable, they work well as a team but it is more than that, they are family and the author shows a good understanding of her characters and how each would react, that I can hear them saying it before they do. The story is also brightened up with humour and loveable rogue pets. This is book three in the series, I have listened to the books out of order (hence I already know the characters so well) but it doesn't matter because each book is a standalone mystery, I would just say that all the books are well worth a listen and I don't think I have given any book in this series anything less than a five star. As well as the great characters the mystery is also intriguing and very involved, which is great for the listener because it keeps you not only guessing but also hooked.
After his mother's death Mac Faraday thought he was finished with inheriting surprise fortunes but when his mother's friend dies and leaves a painting to her, he once again finds himself on the receiving end of a fortune. A famous artist finished her last work of art just hours before her untimely death, only for the painting to go missing. Now Mac has the painting and decides to look into the cold case. At the same time a prisoner talks Joshua Thornton into looking into the Jane Doe he is accused of killing and the only dead woman he refuses to admit to killing. As the cold cases are reopened, startling evidence is discovered, resulting in both men having to work together to solve the deaths and catch a killer.
I liked the narrator. He used his voice well to bring the characters to life.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and I have voluntarily left this review.
After his mother's death Mac Faraday thought he was finished with inheriting surprise fortunes but when his mother's friend dies and leaves a painting to her, he once again finds himself on the receiving end of a fortune. A famous artist finished her last work of art just hours before her untimely death, only for the painting to go missing. Now Mac has the painting and decides to look into the cold case. At the same time a prisoner talks Joshua Thornton into looking into the Jane Doe he is accused of killing and the only dead woman he refuses to admit to killing. As the cold cases are reopened, startling evidence is discovered, resulting in both men having to work together to solve the deaths and catch a killer.
I liked the narrator. He used his voice well to bring the characters to life.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and I have voluntarily left this review.
March 22, 2022
Are you a murder mystery fan? Do you enjoy mystery altogether? You may fall in love with Lauren Carr. Her books will get you hooked. You and start any of her series by reading any one of her books. But you can read her books from the beginning. You can read any of her books as stand-alone as well.
I got hooked on her book by reading a mystery book of hers. Now I have read quite a few of them. The book I just finished is “Shades of Murder” in the form of an audiobook, book three of her Mac Faraday series. I have read almost all of her books in all of her series. They do get interlocked. Some readers may introduce you to new characters and a new series of books.
We started with the prologue of the story and murder in the preamble. We stand introduced to David and his parents, who are on vacation when we open this book. David stands called out to a crime scene. We want to know who killed Ilysa Ramsey.
We get introduced to Mac and his german shepherd in chapter one. When he receives a mysterious package sent to him, Archy wants to know. It seems like it was a painting that had stood stolen. We are wondering whether she painted her death.
Then we are introduced to Joshua Thornton and Cameron Gates. They seem to be working on a murder mystery of their own that when cold. Who is this Jane Doe?; Who kills her? Who happens to be Neil Hackaway’s wife?
What will happen when Cameron Gates and Joshua Thornton find out that there is another Ilysa Ramsey murder in Deep Creek Lake? Who out to kill who. Why does the FBI get involved? There seem to be more murders cases and lots of questions.
These cases seem to collide, and what will ever happen. Will the group work together and figure out the killer? Is there more than one killer? There may be a plan for each of the suspects years later. You will have to read or listen to find out how it all fits together.
I got hooked on her book by reading a mystery book of hers. Now I have read quite a few of them. The book I just finished is “Shades of Murder” in the form of an audiobook, book three of her Mac Faraday series. I have read almost all of her books in all of her series. They do get interlocked. Some readers may introduce you to new characters and a new series of books.
We started with the prologue of the story and murder in the preamble. We stand introduced to David and his parents, who are on vacation when we open this book. David stands called out to a crime scene. We want to know who killed Ilysa Ramsey.
We get introduced to Mac and his german shepherd in chapter one. When he receives a mysterious package sent to him, Archy wants to know. It seems like it was a painting that had stood stolen. We are wondering whether she painted her death.
Then we are introduced to Joshua Thornton and Cameron Gates. They seem to be working on a murder mystery of their own that when cold. Who is this Jane Doe?; Who kills her? Who happens to be Neil Hackaway’s wife?
What will happen when Cameron Gates and Joshua Thornton find out that there is another Ilysa Ramsey murder in Deep Creek Lake? Who out to kill who. Why does the FBI get involved? There seem to be more murders cases and lots of questions.
These cases seem to collide, and what will ever happen. Will the group work together and figure out the killer? Is there more than one killer? There may be a plan for each of the suspects years later. You will have to read or listen to find out how it all fits together.
July 6, 2017
Ilysa Ramsay was taking the art world by storm when she is suddenly killed and her last painting disappears. Ten years later, Mac Faraday receives a package from a questionable collector that had a soft spot for his mother Robin Chase. The package is the missing Ilysa Ramsay painting and before he knows what’s happening people are trying to buy it from him and breaking into his house.
At the same time Joshua Thornton is a military lawyer and detective. He is on vacation with no kids in the house and gets a call from Cameron Gates, a serial killer. He was blamed for one victim that was never identified and it has bothered him since he didn’t kill her. He asks Joshua to look into Jane Doe. Joshua meets up with the detective that worked the case and together they find themselves in Deep Creek Lake.
Mac has his hands full when a missing painting shows up on this door steps. Mac has a bunch of rich people that act that way and are more worried about money than family values. I loved Gnarly and the toll bridge, too funny.
But then you get introduced to Joshua Thornton. I read the first two Thorny Rose mysteries and really enjoyed his son and Mac’s daughter. He did a great job in Shades of Murder and I can’t wait to read his mystery series.
This was another great Mac Faraday mystery. I loved the twists and the real reason the painting disappeared. Once again I didn’t really know who the killer was and was caught off guard by the reveal. I love these mysteries and recommend them to everyone.
I received Shades of Murder from iRead Book Tours for free. This has in no way influenced my opinion of this book.
At the same time Joshua Thornton is a military lawyer and detective. He is on vacation with no kids in the house and gets a call from Cameron Gates, a serial killer. He was blamed for one victim that was never identified and it has bothered him since he didn’t kill her. He asks Joshua to look into Jane Doe. Joshua meets up with the detective that worked the case and together they find themselves in Deep Creek Lake.
Mac has his hands full when a missing painting shows up on this door steps. Mac has a bunch of rich people that act that way and are more worried about money than family values. I loved Gnarly and the toll bridge, too funny.
But then you get introduced to Joshua Thornton. I read the first two Thorny Rose mysteries and really enjoyed his son and Mac’s daughter. He did a great job in Shades of Murder and I can’t wait to read his mystery series.
This was another great Mac Faraday mystery. I loved the twists and the real reason the painting disappeared. Once again I didn’t really know who the killer was and was caught off guard by the reveal. I love these mysteries and recommend them to everyone.
I received Shades of Murder from iRead Book Tours for free. This has in no way influenced my opinion of this book.
June 8, 2017
I chose to listen to this audiobook after receiving a free copy. All opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased.
I have read several books in the Mac Faraday series and they all stand alone and they’re all good mysteries. Shades of Murder is full of mystery with a little humor on the side. It is the third book in the series. I’m enjoying the books even more as I read the series in order.
I like Lauren Carr’s writing style because it’s easy to follow and she doesn’t get bogged down with lengthy descriptions. The narrator, Mike Alger, is easy to listen to. He has good timing and a pleasant voice.
The characters become more developed and complex as the series continues. Gnarly, Mac’s dog, is definitely my favorite character even if he is a thief! Joshua Thornton and Cameron Gates, who have their own series, begin their relationship in this book. That’s another series I enjoy!
I have read and listened to several of Lauren Carr’s books. I’ve decided that for some reason, I like listening to the Mac Faraday books more than reading them. I did miss the cast of characters that is usually in the written or electronic books this time though. There was a time or two that I couldn’t remember who a character was and I had to listen for a bit to figure it out.
I definitely recommend Shades of Murder especially if you enjoy a good murder mystery.
I have read several books in the Mac Faraday series and they all stand alone and they’re all good mysteries. Shades of Murder is full of mystery with a little humor on the side. It is the third book in the series. I’m enjoying the books even more as I read the series in order.
I like Lauren Carr’s writing style because it’s easy to follow and she doesn’t get bogged down with lengthy descriptions. The narrator, Mike Alger, is easy to listen to. He has good timing and a pleasant voice.
The characters become more developed and complex as the series continues. Gnarly, Mac’s dog, is definitely my favorite character even if he is a thief! Joshua Thornton and Cameron Gates, who have their own series, begin their relationship in this book. That’s another series I enjoy!
I have read and listened to several of Lauren Carr’s books. I’ve decided that for some reason, I like listening to the Mac Faraday books more than reading them. I did miss the cast of characters that is usually in the written or electronic books this time though. There was a time or two that I couldn’t remember who a character was and I had to listen for a bit to figure it out.
I definitely recommend Shades of Murder especially if you enjoy a good murder mystery.
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