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Romantic Suspense #14
Did You Miss Me?
Best be nimble, best be quick, I'm right here and you're my pick...
The last thing Ford Elkhart remembers is walking his girlfriend back to her university dormitory. Now he's lying tied and gagged on a cold, dark floor, with only one chance to escape before he ends up like the bones surrounding him...
Assistant State's Attorney Daphne Montgomery is devastated by her son's disappearance, and is immediately convinced that his kidnapping is connected to the white supremacist she's just had jailed for murder.
FBI Special Agent Joseph Carter isn't so sure - especially when he learns that Ford's girlfriend is also missing. Is Ford's abduction payback for Daphne's courtroom victory? Or is he a pawn in an even more dangerous game?
The last thing Ford Elkhart remembers is walking his girlfriend back to her university dormitory. Now he's lying tied and gagged on a cold, dark floor, with only one chance to escape before he ends up like the bones surrounding him...
Assistant State's Attorney Daphne Montgomery is devastated by her son's disappearance, and is immediately convinced that his kidnapping is connected to the white supremacist she's just had jailed for murder.
FBI Special Agent Joseph Carter isn't so sure - especially when he learns that Ford's girlfriend is also missing. Is Ford's abduction payback for Daphne's courtroom victory? Or is he a pawn in an even more dangerous game?
544 pages, Paperback
First published November 8, 2012
387 people are currently reading
3487 people want to read
About the author
Karen Rose
61 books5,443 followersOFFICIAL WEBSITE:
www.karenrosebooks.com
Internationally bestselling, RITA-award winning, author Karen Rose was born and raised in the Maryland suburbs of Washington, DC. She met her husband, Martin, on a blind date when they were seventeen and after they both graduated from the University of Maryland, (Karen with a degree in Chemical Engineering) they moved to Cincinnati, Ohio. Karen worked as an engineer for a large consumer goods company, earning two patents, but as Karen says, “scenes were roiling in my head and I couldn't concentrate on my job so I started writing them down. I started out writing for fun, and soon found I was hooked.”
Her debut suspense novel, DON'T TELL, was released in July, 2003. Since then, she has published fifteen more novels and two novellas. Her seventeenth novel, ALONE IN THE DARK, will be released in 2016.
Karen's books have appeared on the bestseller lists of the New York Times, USA Today, London's Sunday Times, and Germany's der Spiegel (#1), and the Irish Times, as well as lists in South Africa (#1) and Australia!
Her novels, I'M WATCHING YOU and SILENT SCREAM, received the Romance Writers of America's RITA award for Best Romantic Suspense for 2005 and 2011. Five of her other books have been RITA finalists. To date, her books have been translated into twenty-four languages.
A former high school teacher of chemistry and physics, Karen lives in Florida with her husband of more than twenty years, her two daughters, two dogs, and a cat.
www.karenrosebooks.com
Internationally bestselling, RITA-award winning, author Karen Rose was born and raised in the Maryland suburbs of Washington, DC. She met her husband, Martin, on a blind date when they were seventeen and after they both graduated from the University of Maryland, (Karen with a degree in Chemical Engineering) they moved to Cincinnati, Ohio. Karen worked as an engineer for a large consumer goods company, earning two patents, but as Karen says, “scenes were roiling in my head and I couldn't concentrate on my job so I started writing them down. I started out writing for fun, and soon found I was hooked.”
Her debut suspense novel, DON'T TELL, was released in July, 2003. Since then, she has published fifteen more novels and two novellas. Her seventeenth novel, ALONE IN THE DARK, will be released in 2016.
Karen's books have appeared on the bestseller lists of the New York Times, USA Today, London's Sunday Times, and Germany's der Spiegel (#1), and the Irish Times, as well as lists in South Africa (#1) and Australia!
Her novels, I'M WATCHING YOU and SILENT SCREAM, received the Romance Writers of America's RITA award for Best Romantic Suspense for 2005 and 2011. Five of her other books have been RITA finalists. To date, her books have been translated into twenty-four languages.
A former high school teacher of chemistry and physics, Karen lives in Florida with her husband of more than twenty years, her two daughters, two dogs, and a cat.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 460 reviews
March 29, 2017
On the day the verdict is due on a controversial case, Daphne Montgomery's son Forde is abducted, unbeknownst to her. Shortly after the verdict is announced, chaos erupts inside and outside the courtroom. FBI Agent Joseph Carter is also on the scene as he'd come to notify her about Forde. From that moment forward, they're connected for the duration as the case takes numerous turns and revelations about Daphne's past become critical connections to just about everything.
This was one wild, convoluted but challenging mystery! It had everything...seriously mixed up mystery, intrigue, high tension, passion, romance, heartbreak...you name it, you felt it at some moment during the story. I was really excited that Daphne and Joseph were the main focus as she caught my attention as soon as the series shifted to Baltimore.
Of course, there were others with important roles in the story, namely Clay Maynard and Stevie Mazetti, who are perfectly positioned for the next full-length book.
As usual, I got some to this tangled web of mystery right, but not all of it. And, even when I was certain of my suppositions, I still didn't know the full story. I could not stop listening to this story and enjoyed Marguerite Gavin's narration (though I had to stop thinking of Rachel from The Hollows series), so much that I think I'll listen to the rest of the series. I loved this one.
This was one wild, convoluted but challenging mystery! It had everything...seriously mixed up mystery, intrigue, high tension, passion, romance, heartbreak...you name it, you felt it at some moment during the story. I was really excited that Daphne and Joseph were the main focus as she caught my attention as soon as the series shifted to Baltimore.
Of course, there were others with important roles in the story, namely Clay Maynard and Stevie Mazetti, who are perfectly positioned for the next full-length book.
As usual, I got some to this tangled web of mystery right, but not all of it. And, even when I was certain of my suppositions, I still didn't know the full story. I could not stop listening to this story and enjoyed Marguerite Gavin's narration (though I had to stop thinking of Rachel from The Hollows series), so much that I think I'll listen to the rest of the series. I loved this one.
March 5, 2013
Story Rating 5 Stars
Character Rating 5 Stars
Romance Rating 4 Stars
Heat Level 3 Stars
Creepy Villain meter 5 Stars
Overall Rating 5 Stars
WOW!! This book was so AMAZING! For me no one quite writes a romantic suspense thriller quite as well as Karen Rose does. Her books are all so well planned out and have SO many twists and turns that you won't be quite sure what is going on unless you pay very good attention while reading.
This story started out a bit slow for me but that was due to the fact that so many things were going on. Once things started to fall in place for me, the book totally had me hooked. I'm telling you, this book really had twists and turns coming from every which way. No wonder Karen only puts out one book a year because there is NO WAY anyone could write a book such as this any faster.
All the characters in this book were well thought out from the H&h, the secondary characters and the all the villains. YEP, villains, there was more than one and each had their own creepy part and when I say CREEPY I mean CREEEEEEPPPPPYYYYYY!!!!
I have read and LOVED many of Karen Roses books. The only thing for me that was missing in those reads was the heat factor. Even though the heat was low in those books, they were all excellent reads and kept me wanting MORE! Well, that changed with this book. Karen did add a few heated scenes and you know what? I LOVED THEM!!! I certainly hope that Karen continues to add this bit of heat in her future books, for me it add's so much more to my overall enjoyment LOL.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a FANTASTIC suspense thriller and who also does not mind reading about violent crimes. This book is NOT for the faint of heart readers, there is NO candy coated anything for you here.
I had waited a year for this books release and now I have to wait another year for the next book Watch your back. I read the sneak peak and I can already say that just the bit I read has me wishing for it NOW! It also has me wondering who the H&h will be in this book. There are just too many excellent characters for me to even pick which one I'm hoping for.
Character Rating 5 Stars
Romance Rating 4 Stars
Heat Level 3 Stars
Creepy Villain meter 5 Stars
Overall Rating 5 Stars
WOW!! This book was so AMAZING! For me no one quite writes a romantic suspense thriller quite as well as Karen Rose does. Her books are all so well planned out and have SO many twists and turns that you won't be quite sure what is going on unless you pay very good attention while reading.
This story started out a bit slow for me but that was due to the fact that so many things were going on. Once things started to fall in place for me, the book totally had me hooked. I'm telling you, this book really had twists and turns coming from every which way. No wonder Karen only puts out one book a year because there is NO WAY anyone could write a book such as this any faster.
All the characters in this book were well thought out from the H&h, the secondary characters and the all the villains. YEP, villains, there was more than one and each had their own creepy part and when I say CREEPY I mean CREEEEEEPPPPPYYYYYY!!!!
I have read and LOVED many of Karen Roses books. The only thing for me that was missing in those reads was the heat factor. Even though the heat was low in those books, they were all excellent reads and kept me wanting MORE! Well, that changed with this book. Karen did add a few heated scenes and you know what? I LOVED THEM!!! I certainly hope that Karen continues to add this bit of heat in her future books, for me it add's so much more to my overall enjoyment LOL.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a FANTASTIC suspense thriller and who also does not mind reading about violent crimes. This book is NOT for the faint of heart readers, there is NO candy coated anything for you here.
I had waited a year for this books release and now I have to wait another year for the next book Watch your back. I read the sneak peak and I can already say that just the bit I read has me wishing for it NOW! It also has me wondering who the H&h will be in this book. There are just too many excellent characters for me to even pick which one I'm hoping for.
February 19, 2013
I haven't been on Goodreads or written a review in about a million years but I just finished Karen Rose's latest book and had to drop in and write a review.
Series:
All of Karen Rose's books are part of the same universe and have various character connections. Some of the books have deeper plot connections. I think you could probably read this one on its own but you may wonder about past characters and what happened to them. And because she is such an awesome author I'd really suggest starting at the beginning.
Summary:
State's Attorney Daphne Montgomery is prosecuting a high-profile murder trial that has resulted in multiple threats against her life and the lives of her family. But what Daphne doesn't know is that there is someone behind the scenes pulling all the strings. Someone with a deadly vendetta against her with motives Daphne could never have imagined.
FBI Agent Joseph Carter has yearned for Daphne for months. And he's not about to let anything happen to her. Then Daphne's son goes missing and the bodies begin to pile up and asDaphne, Joseph and the rest of the Baltimore crew dig deeper, things only get more convoluted. Secrets that Daphne has long held close are about to be ripped open. It's a race against time to figure out what's going on and who wants Daphne to pay.
Review:
I'm a huge romantic suspense fan and Karen Rose is one of the masters of the genre. And this book. Wow. Just wow. Maybe not quite OMG WOW! that Die For Me (Romantic Suspense, #7) was but still a really fabulous book.
I'm always so amazed at how detailed and cohesive a story Karen Rose can tell. The suspense plot is really wonderfully crafted. It's such a complicated story and Rose manages to twine it all together perfectly with every detail fitting together and making perfect sense. It's really kind of awe-inspiring how she can tell such complex stories.
I enjoyed the suspense plot of this book. It takes you on twisted path that starts you at one point, leads you to another, then dives into the past to tie it all together. I was totally hooked into the story, trying to figure out how everything tied together, why it happened, how it would all turn out. Rose really kept me reading and wanting to uncover all the details. The depth of the plot is really so well done. Every time you blink new details emerge then sends the story winding down another path that you never really predicted.
I also liked the fact that the plot wasn't really a whodunit - you know the who from the very beginning - but rather part of the suspense of the plot is about the connections. How it all tied together to create the situation Daphne and Joseph found themselves in. I had a pretty good idea of how it all tied together, but there was enough doubt, enough possibility to lead me to other conclusions. I love books that keep me guessing. And for a while, this one did.
On the romance front, things are admittedly bit on the low key side. The focus of the book is definitely on the suspense aspect but there's still a nicely developed romance to keep the romance lover in me satisfied. The romance, though, is not really about the building of feelings, the push/pull between two people. Daphne and Joseph both already have feelings for each other and the situation they're in forces them to finally confront them. There's really not a lot of angsty will they/won't they. But more about will their new-found love survive the twisted situation they are in. Still, I enjoyed these two and liked both characters.
Another great aspect to the book is the tie-ins to past books/characters - of which there are quite a few. You get the obvious reconnection with the other Baltimore book characters - Grayson and Sophie, and JD and Lucy. Plus the continuing saga of Clay's unrequited love for Stevie. But Rose also delves back further and brings back Vito Ciccotelli (and referencing his wife and how they met), mentions Dana, Ethan, and some other past characters, plus reintroduces a young man (who was a boy in a previous book). And I just absolutely love these kind of intertwining stories. It creates such a wonderful cohesiveness and it also lets you take a peek at characters that stuck with you in the past. It just really adds a great ambiance to the story.
Did I have any criticisms? Ummm...nope. None that I can think of. I was perfectly satisfied with every aspect of the book. Does that mean everyone else will be to? No, obviously not. This book is more a suspense/thriller with a strong romantic element which may not be enough for some romance fans. It's also rather dark at time which could bother some. And it's also, as mentioned above, very complicated. There are tons of plot twists, a whole lot of characters, and just a lot to keep track of in general. Not everyone likes that kind of story. Me? It's the perfect combination.
I will be eagerly awaiting Rose's next book. I can't wait to find out what happens with Stevie and Clay. I'm hopelessly intrigued by Deacon. And I'd really like to one day revisit Daphne's son Ford. I just wish Rose published more than one book a year. It'll such having to wait till 2014 to get my next Karen Rose fix.
Series:
All of Karen Rose's books are part of the same universe and have various character connections. Some of the books have deeper plot connections. I think you could probably read this one on its own but you may wonder about past characters and what happened to them. And because she is such an awesome author I'd really suggest starting at the beginning.
Summary:
State's Attorney Daphne Montgomery is prosecuting a high-profile murder trial that has resulted in multiple threats against her life and the lives of her family. But what Daphne doesn't know is that there is someone behind the scenes pulling all the strings. Someone with a deadly vendetta against her with motives Daphne could never have imagined.
FBI Agent Joseph Carter has yearned for Daphne for months. And he's not about to let anything happen to her. Then Daphne's son goes missing and the bodies begin to pile up and asDaphne, Joseph and the rest of the Baltimore crew dig deeper, things only get more convoluted. Secrets that Daphne has long held close are about to be ripped open. It's a race against time to figure out what's going on and who wants Daphne to pay.
Review:
I'm a huge romantic suspense fan and Karen Rose is one of the masters of the genre. And this book. Wow. Just wow. Maybe not quite OMG WOW! that Die For Me (Romantic Suspense, #7) was but still a really fabulous book.
I'm always so amazed at how detailed and cohesive a story Karen Rose can tell. The suspense plot is really wonderfully crafted. It's such a complicated story and Rose manages to twine it all together perfectly with every detail fitting together and making perfect sense. It's really kind of awe-inspiring how she can tell such complex stories.
I enjoyed the suspense plot of this book. It takes you on twisted path that starts you at one point, leads you to another, then dives into the past to tie it all together. I was totally hooked into the story, trying to figure out how everything tied together, why it happened, how it would all turn out. Rose really kept me reading and wanting to uncover all the details. The depth of the plot is really so well done. Every time you blink new details emerge then sends the story winding down another path that you never really predicted.
I also liked the fact that the plot wasn't really a whodunit - you know the who from the very beginning - but rather part of the suspense of the plot is about the connections. How it all tied together to create the situation Daphne and Joseph found themselves in. I had a pretty good idea of how it all tied together, but there was enough doubt, enough possibility to lead me to other conclusions. I love books that keep me guessing. And for a while, this one did.
On the romance front, things are admittedly bit on the low key side. The focus of the book is definitely on the suspense aspect but there's still a nicely developed romance to keep the romance lover in me satisfied. The romance, though, is not really about the building of feelings, the push/pull between two people. Daphne and Joseph both already have feelings for each other and the situation they're in forces them to finally confront them. There's really not a lot of angsty will they/won't they. But more about will their new-found love survive the twisted situation they are in. Still, I enjoyed these two and liked both characters.
Another great aspect to the book is the tie-ins to past books/characters - of which there are quite a few. You get the obvious reconnection with the other Baltimore book characters - Grayson and Sophie, and JD and Lucy. Plus the continuing saga of Clay's unrequited love for Stevie. But Rose also delves back further and brings back Vito Ciccotelli (and referencing his wife and how they met), mentions Dana, Ethan, and some other past characters, plus reintroduces a young man (who was a boy in a previous book). And I just absolutely love these kind of intertwining stories. It creates such a wonderful cohesiveness and it also lets you take a peek at characters that stuck with you in the past. It just really adds a great ambiance to the story.
Did I have any criticisms? Ummm...nope. None that I can think of. I was perfectly satisfied with every aspect of the book. Does that mean everyone else will be to? No, obviously not. This book is more a suspense/thriller with a strong romantic element which may not be enough for some romance fans. It's also rather dark at time which could bother some. And it's also, as mentioned above, very complicated. There are tons of plot twists, a whole lot of characters, and just a lot to keep track of in general. Not everyone likes that kind of story. Me? It's the perfect combination.
I will be eagerly awaiting Rose's next book. I can't wait to find out what happens with Stevie and Clay. I'm hopelessly intrigued by Deacon. And I'd really like to one day revisit Daphne's son Ford. I just wish Rose published more than one book a year. It'll such having to wait till 2014 to get my next Karen Rose fix.
May 24, 2016
Not really a review, but some musings of a really awesome book!!
Attention romantic suspense authors, Karen Rose has truly raised the bar...for me anyway. Usually after so many books an author seems like they get stale in their writing. But for KR, this isn't the case at all, as a matter of fact these last two books have the been the edge of your seat sexist so far. This latest is no exception. Joseph and Daphne's scenes were sparking right off the page and singeing my fingers. Even better they were placed at the right time of the story.
Daphne's son, Ford has been kidnapped and she is depending on Joseph to bring her son home. But a madman and Daphne's past stand in the way of her seeing her son or gaining some kind of happiness with Joseph. You don't have to read the prior book to read this one, KR does a good job of bringing you up to speed and making you a part of the story.
To tell you the truth, I felt sorry for Mitch and Cole and thought they got a raw deal and my only niggle is that I would have liked to have seen Cole where he was somewhere happy and safe. The ending spotlighted that it would happen, but I would have liked to have read it through his eyes. I love how lately at the end of KR's book she is taking us through who did what to whom and how it happened. Her stories tend to be complicated and full of twists and you have pay attention, this one was certainly no exception. The body count was high, but not in your face graphic. Speculation on who is going to be in the next book. I hope it is Clay and Stevie, but I am not sure, Stevie is pretty damn stubborn....move over then let me at the sexy PI. Then GAWD there is sexy tan skinned, white haired-with a goatee, bi-lateral colored eyed, Deacon Novak...who in the heck is woman enough to stand up to him? My vote goes to Zoe Carter. Then there is young, yummy Ford, have we met the girl who can tame his youthful, impetuous heart? Sigh...inquiring minds would love to find out.
Attention romantic suspense authors, Karen Rose has truly raised the bar...for me anyway. Usually after so many books an author seems like they get stale in their writing. But for KR, this isn't the case at all, as a matter of fact these last two books have the been the edge of your seat sexist so far. This latest is no exception. Joseph and Daphne's scenes were sparking right off the page and singeing my fingers. Even better they were placed at the right time of the story.
Daphne's son, Ford has been kidnapped and she is depending on Joseph to bring her son home. But a madman and Daphne's past stand in the way of her seeing her son or gaining some kind of happiness with Joseph. You don't have to read the prior book to read this one, KR does a good job of bringing you up to speed and making you a part of the story.
To tell you the truth, I felt sorry for Mitch and Cole and thought they got a raw deal and my only niggle is that I would have liked to have seen Cole where he was somewhere happy and safe. The ending spotlighted that it would happen, but I would have liked to have read it through his eyes. I love how lately at the end of KR's book she is taking us through who did what to whom and how it happened. Her stories tend to be complicated and full of twists and you have pay attention, this one was certainly no exception. The body count was high, but not in your face graphic. Speculation on who is going to be in the next book. I hope it is Clay and Stevie, but I am not sure, Stevie is pretty damn stubborn....move over then let me at the sexy PI. Then GAWD there is sexy tan skinned, white haired-with a goatee, bi-lateral colored eyed, Deacon Novak...who in the heck is woman enough to stand up to him? My vote goes to Zoe Carter. Then there is young, yummy Ford, have we met the girl who can tame his youthful, impetuous heart? Sigh...inquiring minds would love to find out.
July 30, 2017
On the day of the verdict of a high profile case Assistant State Attorney Daphne Elkhart's son Ford and his girlfriend are kidnapped. Daphne herself is saved by FBI agent Joseph Carter at the court steps and from that moment onwards there is nonstop action with lots of twists and turns and romance mixed in the middle. A great addition to the Baltimore series
February 11, 2013
Heck yeah, I missed you! You, Karen Rose, master crime writer, swoop in once a year with a super-charged, over-the-top book filled with suspense and mystery, characters I have grown to adore, tempting new characters to add to the chart, and then POOF – you’re gone again for another year. Your latest is a chiller-diller filled with a dark, dangerous and satisfying whodunnit.
Weaving a mixture of past and present with innumerable curves in the road and mountains to climb, this latest kept me challenged and guessing right up to the very end. What was a most welcome surprise is that Rose has upped the heat level in this one with an extra boost of well-written sizzle and emotionally-charged passion. Wow!
Overflowing with a multitude of individuals to track, readers will most likely find a need to backtrack several times. It’s probably not going to be a fast read for the majority, or the most basic clues and evidence saturating the pages within this smartly and cleverly plotted mystery will surely be missed.
Assistant State’s Attorney Daphne Montgomery and FBI Special Agent Joseph Carter lead the pack in a display of well-drawn, flawed and intriguing characters. Both Daphne and Joseph are plagued with pasts full of secrets and pain. They are likeable, mature -- well into their thirties -- and have careers to which they are dedicated. After having held their feelings in check for almost a year, the kidnapping of Daphne’s twenty-year old son brings them face-to-face again. This time around they hold nothing back and finally admit their love for each other in such a passionate and emotional manner.
The wonderful supportive cast is filled with characters from past books, along with a peek at a few new and tempting ones as well. This reader is keeping her fingers crossed hoping that Clay Maynard and Stevie Mazzetti’s relationship will be front and center in next year’s “Watch Your Back.”
If chilling and thrilling is your game, then this one should get top billing with you. Highly recommend.
Weaving a mixture of past and present with innumerable curves in the road and mountains to climb, this latest kept me challenged and guessing right up to the very end. What was a most welcome surprise is that Rose has upped the heat level in this one with an extra boost of well-written sizzle and emotionally-charged passion. Wow!
Overflowing with a multitude of individuals to track, readers will most likely find a need to backtrack several times. It’s probably not going to be a fast read for the majority, or the most basic clues and evidence saturating the pages within this smartly and cleverly plotted mystery will surely be missed.
Assistant State’s Attorney Daphne Montgomery and FBI Special Agent Joseph Carter lead the pack in a display of well-drawn, flawed and intriguing characters. Both Daphne and Joseph are plagued with pasts full of secrets and pain. They are likeable, mature -- well into their thirties -- and have careers to which they are dedicated. After having held their feelings in check for almost a year, the kidnapping of Daphne’s twenty-year old son brings them face-to-face again. This time around they hold nothing back and finally admit their love for each other in such a passionate and emotional manner.
The wonderful supportive cast is filled with characters from past books, along with a peek at a few new and tempting ones as well. This reader is keeping her fingers crossed hoping that Clay Maynard and Stevie Mazzetti’s relationship will be front and center in next year’s “Watch Your Back.”
If chilling and thrilling is your game, then this one should get top billing with you. Highly recommend.
March 4, 2018
It’s just another day for Baltimore prosecutor Daphne Montgomery until she is attacked in court. Shortly after that, she is shot while answering questions for the press. Lucky for her, she is wearing kevlar. Daphne is saved by FBI Special Agent Joseph Carter. He has arrived to give Daphne some more bad news. Her son, Ford Elkhart, has been kidnapped. The main suspects are the family of the man she is prosecuting, but they couldn't have done it on their own. Evidence points to an incident from Daphne's past. Daphne and Joseph race against time to find Ford.
It’s been a while since I've read a book by this author. I forgot that I should use a score card to keep track of all of the characters. This is the third book in her Baltimore series. I think every character from the first two books is working on this case. There are so many plot threads and details in this story, it wouldn't be hard to overlook something important. The story itself takes place over three days. Since the hero and heroine were attracted to each other before the story began, the short time-span did not detract from the romance. My rating: 4 Stars.
It’s been a while since I've read a book by this author. I forgot that I should use a score card to keep track of all of the characters. This is the third book in her Baltimore series. I think every character from the first two books is working on this case. There are so many plot threads and details in this story, it wouldn't be hard to overlook something important. The story itself takes place over three days. Since the hero and heroine were attracted to each other before the story began, the short time-span did not detract from the romance. My rating: 4 Stars.
March 30, 2017
Karen Rose has become one of my "go to" writers. Her books don't disappoint and she knows how to create really good suspenseful plots. She also knows how to weave a lot of characters together and flesh them all out so that you know who is who. You do see characters from past novels, but if you did't read the prior book, you'll still be fine.
Usually her bad guys do something really horrific. You know it's horrific, you see the impact that it's horrific, but she does't provide the extremely horrific details that you really don't want to read. "Did you Miss Me?" delivers more than one bad guy to hate.
"Did You Miss Me?" pulls you in and doesn't let you go to the very last page. I also appreciate that she neatly pulls all the pieces of the story line together and does not leave you hanging. You aren't left wondering about a detail because she answers the questions. I didn't give this 5 stars because I honestly didn't think the ending climatic scene would have played that way and it felt contrived. A little disappointed there, but the everything else was really good.
Usually her bad guys do something really horrific. You know it's horrific, you see the impact that it's horrific, but she does't provide the extremely horrific details that you really don't want to read. "Did you Miss Me?" delivers more than one bad guy to hate.
"Did You Miss Me?" pulls you in and doesn't let you go to the very last page. I also appreciate that she neatly pulls all the pieces of the story line together and does not leave you hanging. You aren't left wondering about a detail because she answers the questions. I didn't give this 5 stars because I honestly didn't think the ending climatic scene would have played that way and it felt contrived. A little disappointed there, but the everything else was really good.
March 9, 2018
Moments after a controversial verdict is delivered by jurors, District Attorney Daphne Montgomery's world implodes. She's attacked in the courtroom, nearly killed while giving a press conference, and then receives the devastating news that her son, Ford, is missing along with his girlfriend. Threats made imply the family of the now convicted murderer is involved, but could there be a deeper, darker connection? Have shades of the past returned to haunt Daphne once again? FBI Special Agent Joseph Carter has made it his job to find out.
Readers can count on Rose to deliver a chilling, complex, twisted story every single time as she always challenges us to step up to the plate and figure it out. I think Did You Miss Me? may be her most convoluted plotline as of yet and that's saying a lot! With a multitude of characters with opportunity and motive, I found myself hard pressed to figure out the mystery of "who" even though a name and the "why" is revealed through the killer's thoughts and actions early on. The inter-connections, both known and unknown to readers, throughout the story made my head spin in an effort to keep them all straight. It's a good idea to slow down and take this one in slowly as every single detail will prove to be important. While Joseph and Daphne are the stars of this book, other characters step up to lend their support and expertise - setting the stage for some highly anticipated future couples. Mystery, action, intense suspense, heart-pounding & heart-touching moments - Did You Miss Me? delivers in a big way. An absolutely chilling, page-burning Must Read in this awesome series!
Reviewed at Cross My Heart Reviews
Readers can count on Rose to deliver a chilling, complex, twisted story every single time as she always challenges us to step up to the plate and figure it out. I think Did You Miss Me? may be her most convoluted plotline as of yet and that's saying a lot! With a multitude of characters with opportunity and motive, I found myself hard pressed to figure out the mystery of "who" even though a name and the "why" is revealed through the killer's thoughts and actions early on. The inter-connections, both known and unknown to readers, throughout the story made my head spin in an effort to keep them all straight. It's a good idea to slow down and take this one in slowly as every single detail will prove to be important. While Joseph and Daphne are the stars of this book, other characters step up to lend their support and expertise - setting the stage for some highly anticipated future couples. Mystery, action, intense suspense, heart-pounding & heart-touching moments - Did You Miss Me? delivers in a big way. An absolutely chilling, page-burning Must Read in this awesome series!
Reviewed at Cross My Heart Reviews
November 16, 2012
I have read nearly all of Karen's books and rarely read one that I don't love. When her newest book landed on my doorstep a few days ahead of publication (thanks to the Publishers) I was excited as I ripped open the package. However, my excitement was replaced with shock as even by Karen Rose standards this book was a humdinger at 544 pages. With the synopsis read in seconds I poured myself a brew and immediately got stuck in.
For this that maybe haven't read any Karen Rose books this book, along with any other can be picked up and read in any order as a stand alone book. For those that have previously read Karen's books, you will see familiar faces from previous books. IN Karen's last book PI Paige Holden is the main character along with State Attorney Grayson Smith. Both Paige and Grayson return in this book but as the background characters to both State Attorney Daphne Montgomery and FBI Agent Joseph Carter.
What I loved about starting this book was not only being introduced to Daphne and Joseph, but seeing what other characters were up to in their lives. Daphne's son Ford Elkhart is actually the main focus of this book and he is kidnapped and only recalls what happened when he wakes up on a cold dark floor and realises he is tied up and being held. The book takes an immediate dive into the kidnapping and we see many chapters start to form threads. I was totally and utterly engrossed and found myself being drawn back to the book every time I attempted to put it down.
There are numerous threads and people to keep track of and at the halfway mark I had to take a breather as I realised I needed to get it all straight in my head?!? I had block read at least 250 pages and felt like I had overdosed on crime! Luckily a good nights' sleep sorted that out and the next day I resumed reading the rollercoaster ride of a book! The characters Daphne and Joseph each have their own demons and skeletons and as the story progresses we see the layers of their pasts slowly peeled back. I liked the suspense you are kept in, even though I am the most impatient person. As usual the actual crime scenes are written vividly leaving a somewhat sour taste in my mouth at times, but by no means put me off!
Joseph and Daphne are both characters I really liked but the two that really pulled at me were Clay and Stevie. They were only in the book for small periods of time but I SO want to find out what happens there (I just know I'm going to have to wait on that front!). The plot itself had plenty of twists and turns and kept me guessing until the very end of the book. The one thing that stood out this time round was the sex! Yep, that's right people I did say sex! Karen Rose is a great crime writer, but her genre (if people care to check) is romantic suspense. It irritates me when people grumble about this in her books because it's what she does, and believe me when I say it's what she does best. Karen Rose surprised me this time round and at times I wondered if I had inadvertently picked up a Jackie Collins (not a bad thing in my book!).
All in all, this book, although long even by her standards, was an absolute cracker. Karen Rose is first class at these sorts of books and this one didn't disappoint. As usual, you are in for a bumpy ride which will have you reading from morning until night. Highly recommended.
For this that maybe haven't read any Karen Rose books this book, along with any other can be picked up and read in any order as a stand alone book. For those that have previously read Karen's books, you will see familiar faces from previous books. IN Karen's last book PI Paige Holden is the main character along with State Attorney Grayson Smith. Both Paige and Grayson return in this book but as the background characters to both State Attorney Daphne Montgomery and FBI Agent Joseph Carter.
What I loved about starting this book was not only being introduced to Daphne and Joseph, but seeing what other characters were up to in their lives. Daphne's son Ford Elkhart is actually the main focus of this book and he is kidnapped and only recalls what happened when he wakes up on a cold dark floor and realises he is tied up and being held. The book takes an immediate dive into the kidnapping and we see many chapters start to form threads. I was totally and utterly engrossed and found myself being drawn back to the book every time I attempted to put it down.
There are numerous threads and people to keep track of and at the halfway mark I had to take a breather as I realised I needed to get it all straight in my head?!? I had block read at least 250 pages and felt like I had overdosed on crime! Luckily a good nights' sleep sorted that out and the next day I resumed reading the rollercoaster ride of a book! The characters Daphne and Joseph each have their own demons and skeletons and as the story progresses we see the layers of their pasts slowly peeled back. I liked the suspense you are kept in, even though I am the most impatient person. As usual the actual crime scenes are written vividly leaving a somewhat sour taste in my mouth at times, but by no means put me off!
Joseph and Daphne are both characters I really liked but the two that really pulled at me were Clay and Stevie. They were only in the book for small periods of time but I SO want to find out what happens there (I just know I'm going to have to wait on that front!). The plot itself had plenty of twists and turns and kept me guessing until the very end of the book. The one thing that stood out this time round was the sex! Yep, that's right people I did say sex! Karen Rose is a great crime writer, but her genre (if people care to check) is romantic suspense. It irritates me when people grumble about this in her books because it's what she does, and believe me when I say it's what she does best. Karen Rose surprised me this time round and at times I wondered if I had inadvertently picked up a Jackie Collins (not a bad thing in my book!).
All in all, this book, although long even by her standards, was an absolute cracker. Karen Rose is first class at these sorts of books and this one didn't disappoint. As usual, you are in for a bumpy ride which will have you reading from morning until night. Highly recommended.
May 9, 2020
Really fun listening to this romantic suspense story as it is set in Baltimore Maryland. I grew up near there, and worked there for over 20 years, so I know the places they mention really well. I love this author and her romantic suspense novels.
December 27, 2016
It kept my interest due to curiosity, but I did not enjoy this book. It needed better characters.
This is a mystery suspense thriller with a little romance. During the story we are in the bad guy’s head seeing what he does and plans. We also watch the good guys investigate and try to catch the bad guys. It’s mostly a police procedural. I was not excited. There are some complicated character interactions. The author hides things from readers and brings them out later. Some of the logic was hard to accept.
I was frustrated that Daphne knew the killer’s identity at age 8 but never told anyone. As a result many more were killed. The author went to great lengths to give excuses as to why Daphne would not tell anyone. Even after Daphne believed the bad guy was dead, she still did not tell anyone. I was angry and frustrated that Daphne never told. I felt like the author worked really hard to come up with excuses to justify her silence. I didn’t like it. She came off weak by not telling. The audiobook narrator made it worse. Her accent for Daphne was a southern twang that sounded less intelligent. I enjoy some southern accents but not this one.
I wish there was less time describing Daphne’s grief, worry and fear about her son being kidnapped. I was tired of hearing her pain and saying things like “I have to find my son” or saying in horror “he drugged my son?” “He did this?” “He did that?” Daphne expressing horror and despair was repetitive throughout the book.
Sensitive Reader Issues: There is harm to children. Teenage girls are kidnapped and tortured. Torture details are not shown, but screams are described.
The major climax toward the end was full of STUPIDITY. It hurt the book. See Spoiler below.
AUDIOBOOK NARRATOR:
I was not happy with Marguerite Gavin as narrator. There was an awful lot of monotone dialogue that reminded me of the old TV show “Dragnet.” The narrator used an artificially low voice for men doing monotone questions and answers. I also did not like her southern accent for Daphne.
DATA:
Narrative mode: 3rd person. Unabridged audiobook length: 20 hrs and 46 mins. Swearing language: strong but rarely used. Sexual language: moderate. Number of sex scenes: 3. Setting: current day mostly West Virginia and Maryland. Book copyright: 2012. Genre: mystery suspense thriller with some romance.
This is a mystery suspense thriller with a little romance. During the story we are in the bad guy’s head seeing what he does and plans. We also watch the good guys investigate and try to catch the bad guys. It’s mostly a police procedural. I was not excited. There are some complicated character interactions. The author hides things from readers and brings them out later. Some of the logic was hard to accept.
I was frustrated that Daphne knew the killer’s identity at age 8 but never told anyone. As a result many more were killed. The author went to great lengths to give excuses as to why Daphne would not tell anyone. Even after Daphne believed the bad guy was dead, she still did not tell anyone. I was angry and frustrated that Daphne never told. I felt like the author worked really hard to come up with excuses to justify her silence. I didn’t like it. She came off weak by not telling. The audiobook narrator made it worse. Her accent for Daphne was a southern twang that sounded less intelligent. I enjoy some southern accents but not this one.
I wish there was less time describing Daphne’s grief, worry and fear about her son being kidnapped. I was tired of hearing her pain and saying things like “I have to find my son” or saying in horror “he drugged my son?” “He did this?” “He did that?” Daphne expressing horror and despair was repetitive throughout the book.
Sensitive Reader Issues: There is harm to children. Teenage girls are kidnapped and tortured. Torture details are not shown, but screams are described.
The major climax toward the end was full of STUPIDITY. It hurt the book. See Spoiler below.
AUDIOBOOK NARRATOR:
I was not happy with Marguerite Gavin as narrator. There was an awful lot of monotone dialogue that reminded me of the old TV show “Dragnet.” The narrator used an artificially low voice for men doing monotone questions and answers. I also did not like her southern accent for Daphne.
DATA:
Narrative mode: 3rd person. Unabridged audiobook length: 20 hrs and 46 mins. Swearing language: strong but rarely used. Sexual language: moderate. Number of sex scenes: 3. Setting: current day mostly West Virginia and Maryland. Book copyright: 2012. Genre: mystery suspense thriller with some romance.
March 25, 2016
I gave up on this one after about 20% in and after being exposed to probably the 60th non-essential character. My brain was about to explode keeping track of who was related to who, and it seemed that the only point of this was to pay tribute to other characters in the previous 13 books of the series.
Well, that's all well and good for those who care. I don't, and I guess I can blame myself for jumping into her 14th book without having read her before.
I won't read her again. This book reads like a grade 8 effort and breaks most of the rules Stephen King set out in his On Writing book. Namely, the overuse of adverbs. I'm not kidding here: she must have used an adverb for every descriptor of dialogue (King, btw, says anything other than the word "said" after dialogue is useless and trying too hard. Or he said something to that effect). Anyway, it was really annoying and I had to move on before I came to the word "exclaimed" and broke something.
One fun thing I did with my Kindle is search for the occurrence of the word "frowned". 99 times.
Buh-bye.
Well, that's all well and good for those who care. I don't, and I guess I can blame myself for jumping into her 14th book without having read her before.
I won't read her again. This book reads like a grade 8 effort and breaks most of the rules Stephen King set out in his On Writing book. Namely, the overuse of adverbs. I'm not kidding here: she must have used an adverb for every descriptor of dialogue (King, btw, says anything other than the word "said" after dialogue is useless and trying too hard. Or he said something to that effect). Anyway, it was really annoying and I had to move on before I came to the word "exclaimed" and broke something.
One fun thing I did with my Kindle is search for the occurrence of the word "frowned". 99 times.
Buh-bye.
June 2, 2018
3.5 stars!
I really enjoy reading one of Karen Rose's Romantic Suspense installments from time to time. I am not reading them in order - so I have not been familiar with all the characters of this book, but I didn't have a problem to connect to them. I enjoyed the interaction between the characters and the development of relationships between some of them. I also liked the plot itself, but I had the feeling that some plot elements could have been more elaborated - some things felt a little short and I would have loved to know more about reasons and motives behind them.
This might not be one of the best Karen Rose books, but I felt well entertained and I am looking forward to meet some of these characters in other books of the series.
I really enjoy reading one of Karen Rose's Romantic Suspense installments from time to time. I am not reading them in order - so I have not been familiar with all the characters of this book, but I didn't have a problem to connect to them. I enjoyed the interaction between the characters and the development of relationships between some of them. I also liked the plot itself, but I had the feeling that some plot elements could have been more elaborated - some things felt a little short and I would have loved to know more about reasons and motives behind them.
This might not be one of the best Karen Rose books, but I felt well entertained and I am looking forward to meet some of these characters in other books of the series.
March 26, 2017
As I have come to expect, Did You Miss Me is a fascinating plot that starts with revenge, ends with revenge and takes all kinds of wonderful detours along the way. Karen Rose is one of the best authors currently writing romantic-suspense, with the emphasis on suspense. This book takes you in and makes you experience the horror of child abduction and sets you up for a bone chilling ending. Although some elements of the plot have appeared in prior books, there is always a special twist that makes the old, new again.
Ford Elkhart is kidnapped in a revenge plot against his mother, SA Daphne Montgomery who is on the verge of winning her first really big case. Then all hell loose in the courtroom after the verdict, and the shooting starts on the courthouse steps. The plot starts with a Bang!, to day the least. By the time FBI Special Agent Joseph Carter tells her Ford is missing, he has been gone for several hours and there are no clues where. Ford is just a pawn to use against Daphne in an elaborate plot of revenge and Daphne isn't the only target.
Joseph met Daphne nine months ago and fell hard. Really hard. So hard he requested a transfer to so he could be located in Baltimore, near her. But, he was under the very mistaken impression that she was involved with someone else and never made his move. Dumb. Now is definitely not the best time, but, well, sometimes what is, is. There is real respect and trust that have built over the nine months for both of them. Now there is a burning lust to throw on top of everything else. First, and foremost, they have to find Ford and figure out why Daphne is a target.
Ford Elkhart is kidnapped in a revenge plot against his mother, SA Daphne Montgomery who is on the verge of winning her first really big case. Then all hell loose in the courtroom after the verdict, and the shooting starts on the courthouse steps. The plot starts with a Bang!, to day the least. By the time FBI Special Agent Joseph Carter tells her Ford is missing, he has been gone for several hours and there are no clues where. Ford is just a pawn to use against Daphne in an elaborate plot of revenge and Daphne isn't the only target.
Joseph met Daphne nine months ago and fell hard. Really hard. So hard he requested a transfer to so he could be located in Baltimore, near her. But, he was under the very mistaken impression that she was involved with someone else and never made his move. Dumb. Now is definitely not the best time, but, well, sometimes what is, is. There is real respect and trust that have built over the nine months for both of them. Now there is a burning lust to throw on top of everything else. First, and foremost, they have to find Ford and figure out why Daphne is a target.
August 5, 2017
I really should have read the title on goodreads before I spent $1 on this book at a book fair. Romantic suspense? Definitely not my cup of tea.
And why are writers pushing so many characters into books these days? This book had so many intertwining characters who were related to one another, or had known teacher for ages, that I really lost the plot threads about who was who and why they were important. If this is part of a series, great, but you shouldn't isolate your first time readers by making the relationships so complex. And it really wasn't warranted at all since half of them didn't even play any important role in the story.
So, what happens is a prosecutor wins a case against a boss family. They seek revenge against her and steal her son. The prosecutor herself was abducted as a small child and this brings back terrible memories of her time with another killer.
The romantic suspense part is probably the worst part - I really don't understand how this chick is going at it with the men in the book when her only son is missing. Once, maybe, but continuously? please.
It was unnecessarily long and at times repetitive. Shorten it down, cut out periphery characters and you might have a better book. There's no getting around that 'romantic suspense' title though...
And why are writers pushing so many characters into books these days? This book had so many intertwining characters who were related to one another, or had known teacher for ages, that I really lost the plot threads about who was who and why they were important. If this is part of a series, great, but you shouldn't isolate your first time readers by making the relationships so complex. And it really wasn't warranted at all since half of them didn't even play any important role in the story.
So, what happens is a prosecutor wins a case against a boss family. They seek revenge against her and steal her son. The prosecutor herself was abducted as a small child and this brings back terrible memories of her time with another killer.
The romantic suspense part is probably the worst part - I really don't understand how this chick is going at it with the men in the book when her only son is missing. Once, maybe, but continuously? please.
It was unnecessarily long and at times repetitive. Shorten it down, cut out periphery characters and you might have a better book. There's no getting around that 'romantic suspense' title though...
March 22, 2020
3.5 stars
May 10, 2020
"Did You Miss Me?" is book fourteen in the Romantic Suspense series by Karen Rose. FBI Special Agent Joseph Carter was called by his father to investigate the disappearance of Ford Elkhart and his girlfriend. Ford's mother, Assistant State's Attorney Daphne Montgomery, convinced that the kidnap of her son was in regards to her latest case. However, FBI Special Agent Joseph Carter not so sure. The readers of "Did You Miss Me?" will continue to follow the twists and turns in FBI Special Agent Joseph Carter investigation into finding Ford Elkhart.
"Did You Miss Me?" is another fantastic book by Karen Rose. I love the portrayal of the characters by Karen Rose and the way they intertwine with each other throughout this book. "Did You Miss Me?" was well written and research by Karen Rose. I like the description of the settings of "Did You Miss Me?" that allowed me to engage with the plot of this book.
The readers of "Did You Miss Me?" will understand the role that animals have for children and adults who have suffered trauma. Also, the readers of "Did You Miss Me?" will start to understand the problems that women have after breast cancer.
I recommend this book.
"Did You Miss Me?" is another fantastic book by Karen Rose. I love the portrayal of the characters by Karen Rose and the way they intertwine with each other throughout this book. "Did You Miss Me?" was well written and research by Karen Rose. I like the description of the settings of "Did You Miss Me?" that allowed me to engage with the plot of this book.
The readers of "Did You Miss Me?" will understand the role that animals have for children and adults who have suffered trauma. Also, the readers of "Did You Miss Me?" will start to understand the problems that women have after breast cancer.
I recommend this book.
March 20, 2016
There are a lot of authours who utilise minor characters from other novels as lead characters in new novels. Often these novels recap some of the previous storylines or bring back the past characters as minor roles, and these are often enjoyable. 'Did you Miss Me?' however just took this too far, and I felt entirely exhausted and confused by the sheer number of both characters and their relationships and connections and back stories. So much time was dedicated to reminding you that insert character here was insert characters here 's brother/mother/sister/friend/captor/saviour/secret love/child/uncle and their entire back stories that I just felt that the plot for this novel suffered. It was too disrupted to flow properly, and therefore there was a serious lack of tension.
As if this wasn't bad enough, our lead heroine had a back story that made her the perfect muse for an Eastenders character.
I mean seriously. Was all of that necessary ?!
I felt that the relationship between Joseph and Daphne was so set up from the start - them secretly pining for each other. So false that I kind of didn't want them to end up together. From what I can gather they only met once or twice but fell immediately in love. AS YOU DO.
Their dialogue was false, weird and just unnatural. I can't remember the exact page or line but Daphne thinks her son has been found when he hasn't, and Joseph says to her, "Aww honey, you hoped didn't you?" She's a mother whose son has been taken, OF COURSE SHE HOPED!! And then to further confuse the situation, he tells her not to give up hope. ?!?!?!?
Anyway. I did skip quite a lot and I wouldn't recommend. Definitely read the other Karen Rose novels, but leave this one to someone else. An enemy perhaps.
As if this wasn't bad enough, our lead heroine had a back story that made her the perfect muse for an Eastenders character.
I mean seriously. Was all of that necessary ?!
I felt that the relationship between Joseph and Daphne was so set up from the start - them secretly pining for each other. So false that I kind of didn't want them to end up together. From what I can gather they only met once or twice but fell immediately in love. AS YOU DO.
Their dialogue was false, weird and just unnatural. I can't remember the exact page or line but Daphne thinks her son has been found when he hasn't, and Joseph says to her, "Aww honey, you hoped didn't you?" She's a mother whose son has been taken, OF COURSE SHE HOPED!! And then to further confuse the situation, he tells her not to give up hope. ?!?!?!?
Anyway. I did skip quite a lot and I wouldn't recommend. Definitely read the other Karen Rose novels, but leave this one to someone else. An enemy perhaps.
June 3, 2018
This one was just ok for me. I found there were several slow parts while I was reading this and that hasn’t normally been my experience when reading past books in this series. The love connection between Joseph and Daphne wasn’t as realistic as in past books, so that was a slight disappointment, too. It was an ok read, I guess, but just not one of my favorites. Still, I’m looking forward to continuing this series as its really good overall.
May 7, 2015
I started this long after I've read No One Left To Tell. While it was really good and intense, it fell short at some places. Still an awesome read though. It was creepy as hell at some parts
September 11, 2025
Setting: Baltimore, USA; modern day.
Assistant State's Attorney Daphne Montgomery is reaching the climax of a murder trial in which the son of a family of white supremacists is likely to be convicted of the murder of series black couple on a local roadside - only to discover, as a guilty verdict is passed, that her son Ford has been kidnapped.
Working with a team of law enforcement officers, FBI agent Joseph Carter is searching for Ford and his also missing girlfriend - whilst at the same time trying to get close to Daphne who he has admired from afar for some time.
As the motive for the kidnapping becomes less clear, the attraction between Daphne and Joseph becomes more so! Meanwhile, the kidnapper continues with his dastardly plot, the ultimate target being Daphne herself....
I have read several of this author's books in different settings but all from her 'romantic suspense' series and have generally found them to be well-balanced, with the horrendous crimes being investigated taking centre-stage and the attraction between two of the characters being somewhat of a sideline. However, with this one, I thought the reverse was the case, to the detriment of the book - too much about the burgeoning affair between Daphne and Joseph, which, for me, reduced my enjoyment of what was quite a lengthy book (630 pages) and, by the end, I was glad it was finally over! - 7/10.
Assistant State's Attorney Daphne Montgomery is reaching the climax of a murder trial in which the son of a family of white supremacists is likely to be convicted of the murder of series black couple on a local roadside - only to discover, as a guilty verdict is passed, that her son Ford has been kidnapped.
Working with a team of law enforcement officers, FBI agent Joseph Carter is searching for Ford and his also missing girlfriend - whilst at the same time trying to get close to Daphne who he has admired from afar for some time.
As the motive for the kidnapping becomes less clear, the attraction between Daphne and Joseph becomes more so! Meanwhile, the kidnapper continues with his dastardly plot, the ultimate target being Daphne herself....
I have read several of this author's books in different settings but all from her 'romantic suspense' series and have generally found them to be well-balanced, with the horrendous crimes being investigated taking centre-stage and the attraction between two of the characters being somewhat of a sideline. However, with this one, I thought the reverse was the case, to the detriment of the book - too much about the burgeoning affair between Daphne and Joseph, which, for me, reduced my enjoyment of what was quite a lengthy book (630 pages) and, by the end, I was glad it was finally over! - 7/10.
July 21, 2019
Another fantastic book by Karen Rose, the mystery was very well done. I've come to expect a complex plot and large cast of characters with this author, thankfully this one held up. The story is suspenseful with an intriguing secondary cast, they add to the story instead of being a distraction. I also liked that the main characters aren't cookie-cutter, they are flawed individuals with shortcomings. All of these elements add up to a great novel, a real page turner. I wasn't sure how everything would come together, but the ending was very satisfying.
Overall this was a winner. My only complaint was the large body count. I wish one of her stories would have less carnage and gore, that seems to be her trademark. With that being said, I'm a fan. I am definitely looking forward to more from this author.
4.5 Stars
Overall this was a winner. My only complaint was the large body count. I wish one of her stories would have less carnage and gore, that seems to be her trademark. With that being said, I'm a fan. I am definitely looking forward to more from this author.
4.5 Stars
May 20, 2020
Romantic Suspense / Thriller / Mystery / Contemporary
Karen Rose write really creepy villains. You keep guessing the outcome as it goes along because there are so many twist and turns that your head start to spin!
The last thing Ford Elkhart remembers is walking his girlfriend back to her university dormitory. Now he's lying tied and gagged on a cold, dark floor, with only one chance to escape before he ends up like the bones surrounding him.
Assistant State's Attorney Daphne Montgomery is devastated by her son's disappearance, and is immediately convinced that his kidnapping is connected to the white supremacist she's just had jailed for murder. FBI Special Agent Joseph Carter isn't so sure - especially when he learns that Ford's girlfriend is also missing. Is Ford's abduction payback for Daphne's courtroom victory? Or is he a pawn in an even more dangerous game?
Heroine - Daphne Montgomery
A sassy, brassy blonde with Dolly Parton hair, lime green mini skirts, long, long legs, and a West Virginia slang, Daphne has made her mark on the Baltimore prosecutors’ office despite getting a late start in her career. Mother to twenty-year-old Ford, Daphne’s come a long way from her Appalachian roots, persevering through a teen-aged pregnancy, a loveless forced marriage, a vicious divorce, and breast cancer, to finally become the woman she’s always wanted to be. But behind her careful mask of happiness and confidence prowl the childhood nightmares spurred by the horrific crimes she witnessed – and endured. When Ford is kidnapped, those nightmares become her new reality, but FBI Special Agent Joseph Carter has vowed to bring her son home. Can Joseph also convince her to allow the “real Daphne” to shine?
Hero - Joseph Carter
Tall, dark, and broody, widower Joseph Carter started his career with the FBI after serving with the US Navy. An electrical engineer by training, he’s a whiz with security and gadgets, but it was the tragic loss of his first wife that had fueled his passion for reuniting abductees with their families. Now fueled by his feelings for Daphne Montgomery, finding her kidnapped son has become even more critical. She’s suffered so much during her life – he doesn’t want her to lose her son, too. Can he find Ford before it’s too late? Can he protect Daphne from a madman who wants her dead? And can he make her fall for him the way he’s fallen for her?
Karen Rose write really creepy villains. You keep guessing the outcome as it goes along because there are so many twist and turns that your head start to spin!
The last thing Ford Elkhart remembers is walking his girlfriend back to her university dormitory. Now he's lying tied and gagged on a cold, dark floor, with only one chance to escape before he ends up like the bones surrounding him.
Assistant State's Attorney Daphne Montgomery is devastated by her son's disappearance, and is immediately convinced that his kidnapping is connected to the white supremacist she's just had jailed for murder. FBI Special Agent Joseph Carter isn't so sure - especially when he learns that Ford's girlfriend is also missing. Is Ford's abduction payback for Daphne's courtroom victory? Or is he a pawn in an even more dangerous game?
Heroine - Daphne Montgomery
A sassy, brassy blonde with Dolly Parton hair, lime green mini skirts, long, long legs, and a West Virginia slang, Daphne has made her mark on the Baltimore prosecutors’ office despite getting a late start in her career. Mother to twenty-year-old Ford, Daphne’s come a long way from her Appalachian roots, persevering through a teen-aged pregnancy, a loveless forced marriage, a vicious divorce, and breast cancer, to finally become the woman she’s always wanted to be. But behind her careful mask of happiness and confidence prowl the childhood nightmares spurred by the horrific crimes she witnessed – and endured. When Ford is kidnapped, those nightmares become her new reality, but FBI Special Agent Joseph Carter has vowed to bring her son home. Can Joseph also convince her to allow the “real Daphne” to shine?
Hero - Joseph Carter
Tall, dark, and broody, widower Joseph Carter started his career with the FBI after serving with the US Navy. An electrical engineer by training, he’s a whiz with security and gadgets, but it was the tragic loss of his first wife that had fueled his passion for reuniting abductees with their families. Now fueled by his feelings for Daphne Montgomery, finding her kidnapped son has become even more critical. She’s suffered so much during her life – he doesn’t want her to lose her son, too. Can he find Ford before it’s too late? Can he protect Daphne from a madman who wants her dead? And can he make her fall for him the way he’s fallen for her?
November 28, 2012
I have read every one of Karen's books and have enjoyed them all but I think they are all becoming too alike, I'm sad to say. I think Karen knows she's on a winning formula and doesn't want to change that, which I can almost understand, but this is now becoming slightly tedious.
All the characters are always so nice, with big loving, caring families. There is never a 'bad apple' in their circle of friends or family. The sex is now getting a little tedious and I really don't know how they manage such marathon sessions after such a long, hard day at work and no sleep! Beats me.
I figured out who the perpetrator was right from the start, but that isn't Karen's fault. I would say I'm just getting used to her throwing in the perp from early in the story. There are a lot of red herrings as usual and the plot is enough to want you to keep reading to find out who, what and why.
If you haven't read any of her books before, perhaps you would like this but I would honestly now say that the time has come for some plot changes, with perhaps a not so happy ending or something, Just saying.
All the characters are always so nice, with big loving, caring families. There is never a 'bad apple' in their circle of friends or family. The sex is now getting a little tedious and I really don't know how they manage such marathon sessions after such a long, hard day at work and no sleep! Beats me.
I figured out who the perpetrator was right from the start, but that isn't Karen's fault. I would say I'm just getting used to her throwing in the perp from early in the story. There are a lot of red herrings as usual and the plot is enough to want you to keep reading to find out who, what and why.
If you haven't read any of her books before, perhaps you would like this but I would honestly now say that the time has come for some plot changes, with perhaps a not so happy ending or something, Just saying.
November 23, 2023
Did You Miss Me?
2 Stars
When her son is kidnapped, Assistant District Attorney Daphne Montgomery believes it is connected to her latest high profile case, but she and FBI Agent Joseph Carter soon realize that the key to saving Daphne's son may lie in unlocking the secrets of her traumatic past.
Not one of Rose's better efforts. The writing is overly repetitious with Daphne and Joseph's internal musing repeated ad nauseam. Moreover, there is too much telling and not enough showing.
The suspense is lacking tension as the identity of the villain is revealed early on. Moreover, Rose has a problematic tendency of providing her villains with sympathetic motivations even if their actions are diabolical - this is another case in point.
Finally, the romance feels forced. Daphne and Joseph have zero chemistry and their attraction isn't credible.
Unfortunately, this one is more of a miss than a hit. Stevie and Clay's book is next though and I've been looking forward to their story due to the build up. I really hope it lives up to its potential.
2 Stars
When her son is kidnapped, Assistant District Attorney Daphne Montgomery believes it is connected to her latest high profile case, but she and FBI Agent Joseph Carter soon realize that the key to saving Daphne's son may lie in unlocking the secrets of her traumatic past.
Not one of Rose's better efforts. The writing is overly repetitious with Daphne and Joseph's internal musing repeated ad nauseam. Moreover, there is too much telling and not enough showing.
The suspense is lacking tension as the identity of the villain is revealed early on. Moreover, Rose has a problematic tendency of providing her villains with sympathetic motivations even if their actions are diabolical - this is another case in point.
Finally, the romance feels forced. Daphne and Joseph have zero chemistry and their attraction isn't credible.
Unfortunately, this one is more of a miss than a hit. Stevie and Clay's book is next though and I've been looking forward to their story due to the build up. I really hope it lives up to its potential.
December 19, 2012
I AM A MASSIVE KAREN ROSE FAN....I thought I'd make that clear before writing this review.
I just didn't think this and her last couple of books have been as good as the first lot.
Focusing on this book I'd say there wasn't enough development of attraction or communication between the two leads.
My main complaint is that an unrealistic amount of really bad things happened to her: Abduction/witnessing her cousin be raped, teenage pregnancy, crappy marriage/divorce, cancer and kidnapping of her son, kidnapping.
Just throw all the possible bad things that could happen to a person and it'll make a deep character? It didn't work.
Daphne had so much potential,but my god it was too much. Karen should have focused on a couple of these things and went into so much more depth.
I was utterly disappointed and because I have read all of her books I am not making an out of the whim comment.
I just didn't think this and her last couple of books have been as good as the first lot.
Focusing on this book I'd say there wasn't enough development of attraction or communication between the two leads.
My main complaint is that an unrealistic amount of really bad things happened to her: Abduction/witnessing her cousin be raped, teenage pregnancy, crappy marriage/divorce, cancer and kidnapping of her son, kidnapping.
Just throw all the possible bad things that could happen to a person and it'll make a deep character? It didn't work.
Daphne had so much potential,but my god it was too much. Karen should have focused on a couple of these things and went into so much more depth.
I was utterly disappointed and because I have read all of her books I am not making an out of the whim comment.
July 23, 2017
The third book in Karen Rose's suspenseful Baltimore series. ASA Daphne Montgomery is prosecuting a high profile murder case and her son is kidnapped. Everything seems to lead to the family of the accused murderer but it goes ever so much deeper than that. FBI Joseph Carter is on the job. He has been attracted to Daphne for a while but hasn't done anything because he believed she was taken already. So in the mist of finding her son, Daphne is also finding love.
What a major roller coaster! This is one of those books that is hard to put down. Lots of edge of your seat excitement as you are taken on a journey to discover the truth. And sometimes more is revealed than you want. I really loved the characters and how fast the story kept going. This is part of a series, but it can stand well on its own. Most people may want to read the previous books just to get to know the characters better. Highly recommended!
What a major roller coaster! This is one of those books that is hard to put down. Lots of edge of your seat excitement as you are taken on a journey to discover the truth. And sometimes more is revealed than you want. I really loved the characters and how fast the story kept going. This is part of a series, but it can stand well on its own. Most people may want to read the previous books just to get to know the characters better. Highly recommended!
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