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Paradise #4

Broken Ferns

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The island of Oahu is warm breezes, skyscrapers and green mountains-but a daring young thief is out to make a statement, and Special Agent Lei Texeira's new career is already on the line. (Book 4 of Lei Crime Series) Lei Texeira has made a difficult transition from detective on Maui to the FBI on Oahu-and her first big case as an agent draws national media attention. With her typical jump-first, look-later style, she pursues her quarry from Oahu to the outer islands, rousing old conflicts and new heartbreak. "Crisp, well-written and full of local color - Broken Ferns is another page-turner from Toby Neal." Greta Van der Rol, author of Morgan's Choice

238 pages, Paperback

First published January 31, 2013

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About the author

Toby Neal

83 books984 followers
Toby Neal was raised on Kauai in Hawaii. She wrote and illustrated her first story at age 5. After initially majoring in journalism, she eventually settled on mental health as a career and loves her work, saying, “I’m endlessly fascinated with people’s stories.”

Toby credits her counseling background in adding depth to her characters–from the villains to Lei Texeira, the courageous and vulnerable heroine in the Lei Crime Series, to the wounds and psychological implications of the heroes of the Scorch Series.

Get TWO FREE full length Toby Neal books by signing up for her newsletter here! http://www.subscribepage.com/TobyNeal...

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5 stars
855 (41%)
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794 (38%)
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334 (16%)
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47 (2%)
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20 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 157 reviews
Profile Image for Sharon Michael.
663 reviews50 followers
May 1, 2013
This is one of those when I wish there were half-stars available. It was a little more than 'liked it' but not a 4-star for me. I've been ambivalent about this series from the beginning, a bit too much 'damaged cop' and emotional/romantic angst for me for the most part, but wonderful background detail of the Hawaiian islands and people.

One of the big attractions of the series for me has been the main character's Rottweiler and the fact that she left the dog to join the FBI was definitely an issue for me in the last book, almost an 'end of this series' for me in fact.

Glad I didn't, as this was an improvement, better characterizations, less angst, the Rottweiler returned.
Profile Image for Amy.
55 reviews
July 8, 2014
It's not often that I've found a book this deep into a series that is as good as all of the others, but this one is. Reconnecting with previous characters has been entertaining. Meeting new characters has been fun too. Who doesn't love a Robin Hood story? I think anyone who has had to work hard to make ends meet while seeing how others don't seem to have to try at all to get richer can sympathize with Consuelo. I think it would be interesting to see what happens with her in the future. Lei continues to grow and mature and I can't help but to look forward to more of her story!
Profile Image for Toby Neal.
Author 83 books984 followers
September 8, 2013
Recently recognized as a Semifinalist in the Best Indie Books of 2013!
Profile Image for Megan.
183 reviews
April 6, 2014
'Broken Ferns' by Toby Neal is the second of the Lei Texeira series that I’ve read, the first being ‘Torch Ginger’. Both of them were free on Amazon, and both of which I thoroughly enjoyed. I really took pleasure in the depth that the author has given to the main protagonist. Lei’s struggle with some dark life experiences is touched upon, but she also grows and evolves, becoming a better person – and a better detective – in the process. As a reader I am invested in her wellbeing, even if I don’t always agree with her choices! This is not to say that the author dwells too much on the backstories of the characters - the mystery is definitely the winner here - but she gives them multi-dimensional layers that I found very satisfying. The succinct and evocative descriptions of the locales, painted with obvious familiarity and affection, were a bonus and very nicely done without detracting from the essence of the story.

What starts as a strike for justice from a youthful antagonist, devolves into something darker and the FBI and local police are on the hunt to stem the damage to both targets and offenders. Lei’s struggle to conform in her new position as an FBI agent was a nice hook, and I found Consuela’s perspective fascinating (I see in her author’s notes that Neal herself became captivated with this troubled teenager, and hinted at a book of outtakes from that character’s perspective – I think that would make an interesting read!)

I will read all of the other books in this series, as I have become really intrigued by the characters and their interaction, and I’m very fond of a good crime story. ‘Broken Ferns’ ticks both of those boxes for me. My only criticism would be I would have enjoyed some of the elements of the story to be expanded, but perhaps that was just a reluctance to finish a good book.
Profile Image for David Freas.
Author 2 books32 followers
November 20, 2013
This fourth book in the Lei Crime series is as strong as the previous entries.

However, it goes in a bit of a different direction than the earlier books. While all have been about Lei, the crime she was investigating was the primary focus of those books. This one is less about the crime and more about Lei as a person and newly-minted FBI agent.

In many ways, the Broken in the title could refer to Lei. She’s not the complete (if troubled) person she was in earlier books. She’s lost the man she loves to her career and to a woman they saved in an earlier story. She’s lost her dog, Keiki, to that man. And she doesn’t fit well into the rigid bureaucracy that is the FBI.

We see a different Lei in this book. She’s still fighting the PTSD from being an abused child, but she’s coping with it better. She's no longer the tough, independent, loner intent on going her own way and damn the consequences. She’s connecting with people on different levels, coming to realize there are people who care about her, and opening herself up to being hurt by them.

I’m glad to see Lei continue to grow in this book. It would be easy for Neal to bring her only so far then stop at some level and never let Lei progress beyond it. Will Lei make it as an FBI agent or will she go back to being a cop? Only time and the next book in the series will tell.

I can’t wait to find out.
Profile Image for Nancy Steinle gummel.
507 reviews98 followers
March 17, 2015
Broken Ferns by Toby Neal is the second book by Toby Neal that I've read and I like the writing immensely. In this book Kei, who was introduced in the previous book, is now in the FBI after being recruited by her friend Marcella. Kei has bust finished all her privations and was greeted by ber new partner, Ken. They were given their first assignment. A light weight aircraft is stolen from its owner who owned a business on the island of Oahu. They left gratifying all over the place especially in the kitchen. A smokey face with a hooked mouth. They took a ham from the refrigerator and broke into the safe and left the money and jewels in a box on the steps of a homeless shelter. The couple was Mr. Mrs. Smokey and they stole her tea cup chichuacha named Angel. Kei thought it was a juvenile from the gratifying. Before Kei left for Quantico Virginia, her boyfriend Michael told her he refused to wait for her. He had asked her to marry him numerous times. She came back from training to find him married to a Thai woman named Anchara. They did it so she could get her green card. She was rescued from human traficcing in the last adventure. Kei knew she was a decent woman and very beautiful and tiny.the little plane made it to Maui. And another robbery and graffiti this time the money ended up at an orphanage. They got a handle on two guys who used to work at Mr. Amulets business. Then the thief contacted a Tv reporter, Ms. Watanabi. They compared voice grapnel and identified the one terrorist. Read on for the complete story. You won't be disappointed.
Profile Image for Marilou George.
186 reviews53 followers
February 7, 2014
Toby Neal continues her Lei Crime Series with a story that delves into the lives of the real working class people of Hawaii who are relied upon to present to the world a beautiful vista of the islands although they are treated badly by their employers and looked down upon in society. A story of wealth and poverty with a criminal that you will be drawn to and have great compassion for.

Lei, now a FBI Agent, is an amazing character as we have watched her deal with the darkness of her past and the uncertainty of her future. She is strong-willed, compassionate and often times indifferent to authority. In this book I feel that she has finally discovered who she is and is ready to make a life for herself. The characters in this book are drawn with a fine hand and are totally relatable and an integral part of the story as a whole.

Toby Neal entices the reader into the story while bringing to life the luscious beauty and feel for Hawaii and the surrounding islands. She skillfully draws you into a story rich with emotion and intensity. Her attention to detail and thought provoking characters will envelop you as you become invested in the story.

I highly recommend this book to all readers for its compelling story-line, complex and realistic characters while at the same time experiencing the beauty and richness of this tropical paradise.

Profile Image for Julesy.
536 reviews52 followers
February 5, 2017
When I finished the last book BLACK JASMINE, I was so sad at the outcome. However, this book lifted my spirits again. I love Leilani Rosario Matsumoto Texeira. She so unlike any other character I've ever read. So strong, determined, caring, emotional. I love the way she handled dealing with an orphaned teenage girl and a little Chihuahua.

The writer has such a way with words in the beautiful islands of Hawaii. I feel every emotion with every trade wind and scent of hibiscus. I feel as though I am there with Lei.

I can't wait to get to the next book to see whether Lei becomes a better special agent.

I have given every book in this series so far 4.5-5.0 ratings. This is one is just the same with a 4.75 rating.
81 reviews14 followers
January 19, 2014
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review. I rated it 4 out of 5 stars.

Reviewed for For Whom The Books Toll
4, Warm


The island of Oahu is warm breezes, skyscrapers and green mountains—but a daring young thief is out to make a statement, and Special Agent Lei Texeira’s new career is already on the line.

Lei Texeira has made a difficult transition from detective on Maui to the FBI on Oahu—and her first big case as an agent draws national media attention. With her typical jump-first, look-later style, she pursues her quarry from Oahu to the outer islands, rousing old conflicts and new heartbreak.

“Crisp, well-written and full of local color - Broken Ferns is another page-turner from Toby Neal.” Greta Van der Rol, author of Morgan’s Choice.

So far, I've kept up with reading the Lei Crime series and have thoroughly enjoyed every one. I find Ms. Neal's writing style to be very compelling, I feel as if I'm right there watching the story play out. I felt Broken Ferns was a little bit different from Ms. Neal's other books. There was still the mystery of who was actually doing the crimes and a lot of action. The story was fast paced and kept me turning the pages. However, this story is more about how Lei is handling leaving her detective job to become an FBI agent, and how she can make herself conform to some strict rules. I do like Lei's personality, she's a kick-ass heroine. The longer they investigated the Smiley Bandit, and the cause for the perpetrators, has Lei feeling some compassion for the robbers.
Marcella tries her best to help Lei get accustomed to the FBI rules, but Lei is already on the Captain's bad list just because she's a woman. Lei also has to deal with leaving her beloved dog Keiko behind and the break-up with her boyfriend, Stevens. Broken Ferns plot gives Lei a lot to think about besides the crime she needs to solve. I can't wait to see how Ms. Neal's next book handles Lei's life, her friendships, and love life.
28 reviews
June 14, 2014
A great series.

Beautiful beautiful Hawaii as a background for this 5th volume in the Lei Texeira crime series by native Hawaiian Toby Neal is still as spectacular as the 1st book.

Lei as a FBI agent who tends to not always follow the rules keeps you guessing as to what she might do next. The story is intriguing but predictable at the same time. There are still some pretty good twists and turns. Her relationship with Stevens is an ongoing problem for her to deal with as well everything else she has to contend with.

I still find myself a little disappointed with Lei as an officer of the law. In my opinion she should be learning more from her mistakes than she is. She has good intuition and should be dealing with her demons better by now.

However, I am definitely going immediately on to #6, Shattered Palms. I can hardly wait to find out what is in store for Lei and company in spectacular Hawaii. I know it will be another great tale. Thank you again Ms. Neal for the 5th time.
Profile Image for Jeanette.
300 reviews
March 8, 2013
Awesome, AWESOME!! That really doesn't sum it up, but it's the best I can do right now. :) I have really grown to love all of the characters, settings and storylines. This one was especially close to my heart because of where it took place - Oahu - my second home. Being able to truly picture the places, streets, and towns was incredible. I love the conflict Lei is having with her FBI job and am really happy about the way the book ended this time and where her and Stevens are in their "relationship". Ahhh Consuelo, my new favorite character - I hope she gets further development in future books. Patiently waiting for Twisted Vines. :)
Profile Image for Jessica.
1,634 reviews30 followers
April 26, 2013
I enjoyed this book immensely.

Lei has now been in the FBI for a short time. She is stationed on Oahu. She has sort of put her life on hold. She doesn't want her home to be nice, she hasn't gotten her dog, etc. A strange case draws her back to Maui, where her old boyfriend who has been recently married is living.

She is in mental pain because she thought he'd wait for her. That was unrealistic, but she's not very good at relationships. She has to work her heart past the hurt while solving the case.

It comes to a satisfying conclusion. (I don't want to give anything away.) There is some question if they are mature enough to handle it though.
Profile Image for Bobby Hutchinson.
Author 166 books116 followers
January 4, 2014

I'm a huge fan of this series. Broken Ferns is the fourth in the saga of Lei Texeira, now a Special Agent with the FBI.

I wasn't quite as enthusiastic about this fourth book as I have been of the previous three. The plot involving a teenage vigilante didn't appeal to me as much as Neal's previous ones. I enjoyed the romantic complications--Lei's longtime love interest, Stevens, is now married--to someone else, and I was intrigued with how the complication would play out.

Lei isn't always likeable, but she is always fascinating and unpredictable, and what more could a reader ask of a character?

Profile Image for Becky.
41 reviews4 followers
October 27, 2014
I had just finished Black Jasime Book 3 in the Lei Crime Series and knew I needed to find out what
the next chapter of Lei's life had in store.
Well i started Broken Ferns yesterday and finished it today.
Yes it that good! I cried more with this book than the previous three.
There were parts I was saying NO!!!!
But there are alot of changes that happen in this book.
Accepting things you can not change is a sure sign that someone who has been broken is on the way to being healed.
Some wonderful things happen during the course of Broken Ferns.
Toby Neal has done a great job deveolping the characters in her books and making you care about them..
Profile Image for Cheryl (Collier).
177 reviews11 followers
May 17, 2013
I had read only one other book in this series and wasn't sure I wanted to read another. I'm really glad I did. The main character Lei has grown up from whom I met before. I truly did not like her much before thinking her too self-centered to be in law enforcement. Even though there are reasons for her many issues I had a hard time believing in her abilities to perform her job or be a friend and lover. She has now gone through even more personal changes but now she is trying to cope with them and allowing others into her life. I will read the next book.
Profile Image for Jennifer.
16 reviews2 followers
February 12, 2013
I loved how the first book reached out and grabbed me, held my attention through the entire book, all three sequels have also been just as exciting, I love the characters and story line, I've bought each one the minute I received the email notification it was out! I've read each book within 2-3 days, its so hard to put it down, can't wait for book #5 now. Thanks Toby again, I really enjoy your writing! :)
32 reviews
July 30, 2013
This novel was more about Lai's personal relationships than a mystery. I'm now totally disenchanted with such a weak character. No way the FBI would put up with her for 10-minutes. She would have to be way more mature than she is and learn to follow orders. Hope Ms Neal gets back to writing mysteries because I enjoyed some of her earlier books. This book was weak and predictable with the exception of the ending which was hard to believe.
12 reviews
February 22, 2014
Best yet

I love discovering new authors and Toby Neal is the best I have read in a long time. I have not yet been able to read the first and second books, but they are on the list next. I have so enjoyed Lei, I have been able to watch her grow in the third and fourth books and I am eagerly awaiting the arrival of the next book, hoping to see her again and enjoy the growth of her character and life. Thank you Toby Neal.
Profile Image for John Brissette.
86 reviews9 followers
May 19, 2014
I purchased this as an entertaining distraction. A fun crime thriller set in my "Hanai home" of Hawaii. It was that. But it also had interesting moments that make you think. Think about consumerism, what makes my "paradise" a paradise to me & what is it's value to others. Some poignant points hit home, especially for those of us who work in or within the scope of the tourism industry. A great beach or pool read that also makes you think. Nice job!
390 reviews3 followers
September 22, 2014
Adjusting to Life's Challenges

This book involves a lot of adjusting by the protagonist newly trained at FBI center in Virginia. She must adjust to doing things the way she is being counseled to do by her supervisor as well as doing the "right thing" as she investigates the crimes being committed by folks that have been injured and who feel justified in striking back against those they blame for causing their pain.
Profile Image for Anima.
2,747 reviews52 followers
June 17, 2014
Lei grows a lot in this fourth book. She's an F.B.I. agent working a large robbery/vandalism case. Reality hits as she may not be cut out for the demands and protocols required of her. She has a few run ins with Stevens causing my hopes for a reunion to run high. I enjoy the police jargon, as the spouse of a deputy sheriff I find it fascinating. Always hoping for more steamy romance.
Profile Image for Lisa Godina.
96 reviews4 followers
June 13, 2013
Toby Neal does it again with this continuation of the Lei detective series. Lei is now working for the FBI and has to capture the Smiley Bandit... a modern version of Robin Hood in Hawaii. Toby maintains Lei strong attitude while dealing with matters of the heart, reconnecting with family, and adjusting to a new work place and a judgemental supervisor.
100 reviews3 followers
February 12, 2014
Neal just keeps getting better and better!

This is the fourth book I've read in the series, and the one in which Lei becomes a real, living person to me, not just a character in a book. I've thoroughly enjoyed reading this series, and have already got the next one lined up! In fact, I'm going to start reading it now!
99 reviews
March 26, 2014
Broken Ferns

I have read all four of the series and I have enjoyed them. The four Grand Ladies of Crime to me 1. Dorothy Sayers, 2. Georgette Heyer, 3. Agatha Christie, and 4. Martha Grimes all have different outlooks with their books and Toby Neal isn't there but she is very good. I have enjoyed this book and I RECOMMEND it. Please keep on writing.
Profile Image for Latisha.
83 reviews
March 9, 2013
I loved it! This has turned out to be a very good series. And of course it left me wanting more. Lei is turning out to be a very likable character. I find myself rooting for her to finally let herself love and to be loved without reservation. Can't wait to read the next one;)
21 reviews
May 17, 2013
WOW! I loved this book so much more than any of the others and I didn't think that could happen. The storyline drew me in immediately and I had to pull myself away. I don't want Lei and Stevens' story to come to an end. Truly a must read!
Profile Image for Suzi Belanger.
67 reviews3 followers
June 11, 2013
The suffering and anguish that Lei feels is palpable throughout this novel. She is still searching for herself, yet she has an increasingly frustrating time when she finds pieces of herself in the perpetrators of crimes. I am greatly looking forward to see where her next adventure takes her.
121 reviews2 followers
June 12, 2013
I actually really enjoyed this book, wasn't expecting much got it free on Amazon for my Kindle, liked the characters and the story line, leaves me wanting to read more of the series. Perfect summer read!
1 review
February 22, 2014
Enjoyed the book as an easy read. Felt the author did an excellent job of exposing vulnerability and imperfections in some of the characters that I have come to know through other books in this series. Also appreciated the lovely descriptions of beautiful Hawaii.
Profile Image for Joy.
188 reviews2 followers
February 11, 2013
I have read all the books in this series. Needless to say I really like the characters.
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