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About Face
Reclusive forensic artist Macy Sheridan agrees to work one final case she hopes will solve the mystery that’s haunted her for years. The only things blocking her from achieving her goal are a perfect facial reconstruction and Detective Leigh Monroe, a woman who reminds her of the past and challenges her future.
Leigh Monroe has lost her lover, her livelihood, and her home, but she chooses to look on the bright side. What else could go wrong? Then she meets rude, solitary Macy Sheridan. But Leigh discovers that Macy’s façade is a mask, yet as real and untouchable as the forensic reconstructions she so meticulously creates.
Leigh Monroe has lost her lover, her livelihood, and her home, but she chooses to look on the bright side. What else could go wrong? Then she meets rude, solitary Macy Sheridan. But Leigh discovers that Macy’s façade is a mask, yet as real and untouchable as the forensic reconstructions she so meticulously creates.
264 pages, Paperback
First published August 17, 2014
14 people are currently reading
127 people want to read
About the author
V.K. Powell
21 books113 followersAs a thirty-year law enforcement veteran, VK Powell brings a rare level of authenticity to her novels of romantic intrigue. Her career spanned numerous positions including beat cop, homicide detective, vice/narcotics lieutenant, and assistant chief of police. Now retired, VK infuses her writing with the wealth of experience she gained in police work.
VK is a member of the Romance Writers of America, Rainbow Romance Writers, and the Golden Crown Literary Society. She has penned several novels and short stories featuring strong women who struggle with the timeless question: can you really have it all?
VK is a member of the Romance Writers of America, Rainbow Romance Writers, and the Golden Crown Literary Society. She has penned several novels and short stories featuring strong women who struggle with the timeless question: can you really have it all?
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
June 20, 2016
Though I own quite a few of Powell's books, this is the first one I've had a chance to read. I was hopeful but had no idea what to expect. Luckily, I really did enjoy this.
I would classify this as a romance that had mystery elements. The romance is the main focus of the book, but with one character a detective, and the other a forensic artist, you also had mystery/crime parts of the book.
I thought both characters were well written. And as a reader you felt like you got to know them and identify with them. The romance is where the story shined for me, maybe a little unneeded angst, but overall well done. Plenty of surprisingly steamy sex scenes too.
The mystery I liked, but thought it got a bit too easily wrapped up in the end. However, it didn't ruin the book or anything.
As a first Powell book to read, I'm very happy with how well this book was written. I'm absolutely looking forward to diving into some of her other books that i own. I would recommend this to romance and or crime fans.
I would classify this as a romance that had mystery elements. The romance is the main focus of the book, but with one character a detective, and the other a forensic artist, you also had mystery/crime parts of the book.
I thought both characters were well written. And as a reader you felt like you got to know them and identify with them. The romance is where the story shined for me, maybe a little unneeded angst, but overall well done. Plenty of surprisingly steamy sex scenes too.
The mystery I liked, but thought it got a bit too easily wrapped up in the end. However, it didn't ruin the book or anything.
As a first Powell book to read, I'm very happy with how well this book was written. I'm absolutely looking forward to diving into some of her other books that i own. I would recommend this to romance and or crime fans.
April 15, 2020
Macy and Leigh had scorching hot chemistry. From their first scene together they held my attention. The mystery plot was interesting too.
June 23, 2019
First off, Ms.Powell was generous enough to add one of all time favorite snack - The Donut - into the story. She even went the extra mile by
writing one of the best way to devour it.
I came across a Donut shop yesterday, the signboard said Donut Cun ( Cun means cute in Malay) and I was just standing and staring
at it for minutes. My twisted mind was just focusing on the word Cun until my friend
brought me back to reality and told me to get
my mind out of the sewer after I asked her if
she was adding any letter.. I need to check out for spas that perform brainwash.
Ms.Powell was a police officer, her knowledge + experience were great additions to the story but unfortunately her crime / thriller plot was all
over the place, I felt like I needed to jot down
notes to keep track but simply wasn't in the
mood to do so but I was certain that everything
was related somehow.
About Face was not a total loss, the romance and other elements were pretty good. I paired it with a book by one of my favorite authors but my mind preferred this more than the other. The cloudy weather was just perfect for it as one of the
leads was suffering from a loss that was
affecting her life. When the person meant for
her came into sight, the sun didn't break through the cloudy sky immediately even though the attraction was instant - not at the speed of making the cup noodles. The author really put Leigh to work to get Macy to see something promising
for them but the sadness that was haunting Macy was like leeches on skin (not a memorable experience, 🤪)
The push and pull strategy worked and these
ladies enjoyed communicating during sex.. The instructions, teases and actions - pure torture reading them in public.
As the youngest of five(unfortunately) I have
a great relationship with my siblings so story that features such element wins major points especially when besties are included. Leigh had her share
of ups and downs but her sister and best
friend/s were always there for her and
reading their scenes were as enjoyable as reading Leigh and Macy's story.
I came across this situation many times in het
and lesfic, why was it okay for the exes from hell
to return and assumed it was their given rights to touch / kiss their exes (one of the leads) just when the leads were finally in the same page.
If it was for the sake of drama, then it was just like adding MSG into your cooking.. Just heck nope.
I do love this, will be visiting the highlighted and bookmarked scenes now and then + grateful
to Lex for recommending it.
writing one of the best way to devour it.
I came across a Donut shop yesterday, the signboard said Donut Cun ( Cun means cute in Malay) and I was just standing and staring
at it for minutes. My twisted mind was just focusing on the word Cun until my friend
brought me back to reality and told me to get
my mind out of the sewer after I asked her if
she was adding any letter.. I need to check out for spas that perform brainwash.
Ms.Powell was a police officer, her knowledge + experience were great additions to the story but unfortunately her crime / thriller plot was all
over the place, I felt like I needed to jot down
notes to keep track but simply wasn't in the
mood to do so but I was certain that everything
was related somehow.
About Face was not a total loss, the romance and other elements were pretty good. I paired it with a book by one of my favorite authors but my mind preferred this more than the other. The cloudy weather was just perfect for it as one of the
leads was suffering from a loss that was
affecting her life. When the person meant for
her came into sight, the sun didn't break through the cloudy sky immediately even though the attraction was instant - not at the speed of making the cup noodles. The author really put Leigh to work to get Macy to see something promising
for them but the sadness that was haunting Macy was like leeches on skin (not a memorable experience, 🤪)
The push and pull strategy worked and these
ladies enjoyed communicating during sex.. The instructions, teases and actions - pure torture reading them in public.
As the youngest of five(unfortunately) I have
a great relationship with my siblings so story that features such element wins major points especially when besties are included. Leigh had her share
of ups and downs but her sister and best
friend/s were always there for her and
reading their scenes were as enjoyable as reading Leigh and Macy's story.
I came across this situation many times in het
and lesfic, why was it okay for the exes from hell
to return and assumed it was their given rights to touch / kiss their exes (one of the leads) just when the leads were finally in the same page.
If it was for the sake of drama, then it was just like adding MSG into your cooking.. Just heck nope.
I do love this, will be visiting the highlighted and bookmarked scenes now and then + grateful
to Lex for recommending it.
May 25, 2018
3.7 stars. I liked this one quite a lot. The characters were really enjoyable but the plot does not live up to the same standard. The mystery tied itself up too neatly. But otherwise a solid read.
did-not-finish
October 3, 2021Holy Head-Angsting! I'm emotionally drained!
I'd considering myself pretty neurotic. It's something I actively try to work on. But my God, I now truly see just how darn frustrating it is for someone to witness another hopping around in their own head so much and allowing themselves to go around and around and back and forth again on things, driving themselves and others crazy in the process!.
Maybe it is the writing style, but I felt like both characters were constantly going over things in their head way too much, and then repeating themselves over and over again. I appreciate the author trying to give us a look into each characters psyche, but damn! It became too much for me.
Detective Leigh Monroe is floundering professionally and emotionally. She's got Mommy issues, and trust issues, yet is ridiculously into positive affirmations and self help quotes. She acts all happy-go-lucky on the outside, but internally she's struggling with rejection issues. She comes off as quite immature despite the fact she is the rank of Detective.
For some reason she is desperate to try and impress Macy Sheridan, her new landlord and retired forensic sketch artist. Macy is closed off and rude. Hurting from her own past losses. Reclusive and finds emotions and people difficult. She's very abrasive and keeps rejecting Leigh's offers for dinner, walks, and general 'getting to know you' stuff. You'd think after the constant rebuffs she would quit it, right? Nope. Leigh keeps steamrolling through, doing the same thing, expecting different results. and with that, we're supposed to believe she's a good detective?
For me it actually felt sad. That Leigh would put herself in that position to want this closed-off womans approval, and keep seeking it time and time again, despite her being quite clear about her own boundaries and issues. Yes Macy was gruff, but she was entirely honest about it, being upfront with Leigh that she doesn't socialize well and wants to be left alone. While yes she is grieving her own loss, it still felt like over-stepping for Leigh to try and force something between them, and made Leigh seem desperate and juvenile.
I felt emotionally exhausted reading 1/4 of it and so have put it down for now. I MAY pick it back up - perhaps it is my mood? I'll update if I do.
I'd considering myself pretty neurotic. It's something I actively try to work on. But my God, I now truly see just how darn frustrating it is for someone to witness another hopping around in their own head so much and allowing themselves to go around and around and back and forth again on things, driving themselves and others crazy in the process!.
Maybe it is the writing style, but I felt like both characters were constantly going over things in their head way too much, and then repeating themselves over and over again. I appreciate the author trying to give us a look into each characters psyche, but damn! It became too much for me.
Detective Leigh Monroe is floundering professionally and emotionally. She's got Mommy issues, and trust issues, yet is ridiculously into positive affirmations and self help quotes. She acts all happy-go-lucky on the outside, but internally she's struggling with rejection issues. She comes off as quite immature despite the fact she is the rank of Detective.
For some reason she is desperate to try and impress Macy Sheridan, her new landlord and retired forensic sketch artist. Macy is closed off and rude. Hurting from her own past losses. Reclusive and finds emotions and people difficult. She's very abrasive and keeps rejecting Leigh's offers for dinner, walks, and general 'getting to know you' stuff. You'd think after the constant rebuffs she would quit it, right? Nope. Leigh keeps steamrolling through, doing the same thing, expecting different results. and with that, we're supposed to believe she's a good detective?
For me it actually felt sad. That Leigh would put herself in that position to want this closed-off womans approval, and keep seeking it time and time again, despite her being quite clear about her own boundaries and issues. Yes Macy was gruff, but she was entirely honest about it, being upfront with Leigh that she doesn't socialize well and wants to be left alone. While yes she is grieving her own loss, it still felt like over-stepping for Leigh to try and force something between them, and made Leigh seem desperate and juvenile.
I felt emotionally exhausted reading 1/4 of it and so have put it down for now. I MAY pick it back up - perhaps it is my mood? I'll update if I do.
July 16, 2018
This has got a nice, fast pace with both mystery and romance. I liked the way the puzzle pieces fitted together and that the final picture was different from what I was expecting. There is a bit of relationship angst and miscommunication but it didn't feel like it was manufactured to create the schism. It felt like it was actually how these characters types would behave.
November 6, 2020
Quite hard to read in that though it flowed it went through rapids that were hard to navigate- and WOW!!! - WTF moments were all over the place. I can cope with one ridicous coincidence but they just kept on coming till it was unreal.
September 20, 2014
Being an artist, I was a little worried about whether VK would be able to authentically capture the "artistic" process, since most of the books I've read by her have been about cops and crime (Her former career, which she obviously writes about with authority.) Well, I shouldn't have worried for a moment. VK did an amazing job of describing feelings about creating art that I don't think I could have articulated myself, but which ring true. Happily, there's also a cop in this story :-)
I really liked both characters. They were funny, at times acerbic, passionate and flawed. In a word, "real."
VK Powell has delivered another complex and compelling story. Well done.
I really liked both characters. They were funny, at times acerbic, passionate and flawed. In a word, "real."
VK Powell has delivered another complex and compelling story. Well done.
June 11, 2023
I really loved this book. I tend to be insecure in my relationships and could really relate to the main characters issues. Well done and I will read more by this author.
September 15, 2019
This has to be the hottest slow-burn I have read in a long while. I literally got tummy fires. 🙈🙈
It was a very good pace and the emotions felt so real. It was so relatable, like something that can happen in real life... not the murder case but the slow-burn.
It is such a feel good book.
It was a very good pace and the emotions felt so real. It was so relatable, like something that can happen in real life... not the murder case but the slow-burn.
It is such a feel good book.
November 4, 2018
I listened to this on audiobook while walking the dog, getting the day's tasks dealt with, and any odd bits and bobs that would let me have more time with the story.
I really enjoyed this.
Macy Sheridan has a huge weight looming over her. She's a forensic artist—a skill set that's rare and incredibly complicated—and she's all but a shut-in. Cut off from the world around her thanks to tragedy, loss, and red-tape (and especially the particular brand of awful that is police procedure and police officers who have left her completely distrustful), she's barely functioning as an artist any more, keeps everyone away, and wants nothing to do with the outside world. But she does need to rent out her boathouse, and that requires a modicum of interaction which she hopes she can keep to a minimum.
Leigh Monroe just lost a relationship, and made a conscious choice to do the right thing in the wrong way, and now her job as a police officer is also in jeopardy. She has nowhere to live, and is suspended, so a retreat to get away from most of her life—and especially the stares and accusations—is a great idea. Renting a small place is perfect, except for the owner, who is beyond rude and cold.
But as the two women interact, something shifts in both of them, and though they've got a lot to overcome, it could be the best thing that ever happened. That is, if either of them can handle the inevitable realities of who they are, what that means to their beliefs, and whether or not they're willing to risk it.
I really appreciated Powell's take on police work (again, you can tell this was her lived experience informing the narrative) and I really liked the details dropped into the forensics that I didn't know. It's fascinating stuff, and adds a layer of verisimilitude to the whole novel. The performer also used a smoky-low quality in her voice that really worked for Leigh, and something that felt brittle and rigid with Macy, which was just as on-point.
I really enjoyed this.
Macy Sheridan has a huge weight looming over her. She's a forensic artist—a skill set that's rare and incredibly complicated—and she's all but a shut-in. Cut off from the world around her thanks to tragedy, loss, and red-tape (and especially the particular brand of awful that is police procedure and police officers who have left her completely distrustful), she's barely functioning as an artist any more, keeps everyone away, and wants nothing to do with the outside world. But she does need to rent out her boathouse, and that requires a modicum of interaction which she hopes she can keep to a minimum.
Leigh Monroe just lost a relationship, and made a conscious choice to do the right thing in the wrong way, and now her job as a police officer is also in jeopardy. She has nowhere to live, and is suspended, so a retreat to get away from most of her life—and especially the stares and accusations—is a great idea. Renting a small place is perfect, except for the owner, who is beyond rude and cold.
But as the two women interact, something shifts in both of them, and though they've got a lot to overcome, it could be the best thing that ever happened. That is, if either of them can handle the inevitable realities of who they are, what that means to their beliefs, and whether or not they're willing to risk it.
I really appreciated Powell's take on police work (again, you can tell this was her lived experience informing the narrative) and I really liked the details dropped into the forensics that I didn't know. It's fascinating stuff, and adds a layer of verisimilitude to the whole novel. The performer also used a smoky-low quality in her voice that really worked for Leigh, and something that felt brittle and rigid with Macy, which was just as on-point.
August 12, 2018
First VK Powell book I have read and it will not be the last. I really enjoyed the combination of Frozen Solid Ice Queen, a police mystery and a family drama entwined through the story.
August 12, 2014
Hilariously delightful encounters sparkle during the opening of this book and are peppered throughout. I wasn't prepared for, but not disappointed by, the many amusingly charming episodic engagements that occurred. They also wonderfully balanced the intrigue and the out-of-this-world unraveling of a fairly old missing person’s case. It was so astonishing that I had to re-read the book again as soon as possible. I truly enjoyed it the first time round, but my level of appreciation simply skyrocketed during the reread. I recommend this book for lovers of mystery and the passionate unfolding of an astounding romance between—very figuratively speaking—the “devil and the deep blue sea”. Magnificent!
Macy Sheridan is a remarkably talented woman who has lived beneath a cloud of such pain and guilt as to appear locked in a depressive state. Her whole world collapsed a little more than sixteen years ago and she has built and rebuilt her walls to stay hidden, alone, and in mourning. However, her sharp wit along with an all-encompassing professionalism and finely ingrained artistic soul allows her humanity and sensuous nature to reblossom. Macy scared me a bit, but I really came to adore her. Fantastic!
Leigh Monroe is a felicitously engaging woman with her police chums and cohorts, her younger sister, or her best friend. I was somewhat amazed to learn of her tough younger years and her near total estrangement from her mother. In part since she is so openly friendly, helpful, and upbeat. Even if her partner raises his eyes heavenward at her panoply of self-help bullshit as he calls it, he seems to do so in loving fashion. As stimulating as police detectives are for me, I still could put Leigh at the head of the class for her style, humor, and devotion. Splendid!
I think I might read this again for a third time to uncover even more priceless, provocative, and precious moments. I truly admire books that have such depth that you can mine them over and over again with wonderment and gratification. Plus, there are two mysteries to unravel. I was practically on Cloud Nine! This is a super and sumptuous feast for the heart, mind, and spirit. Fantabulous!
NOTE: This book was provided by Bold Strokes Books for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Macy Sheridan is a remarkably talented woman who has lived beneath a cloud of such pain and guilt as to appear locked in a depressive state. Her whole world collapsed a little more than sixteen years ago and she has built and rebuilt her walls to stay hidden, alone, and in mourning. However, her sharp wit along with an all-encompassing professionalism and finely ingrained artistic soul allows her humanity and sensuous nature to reblossom. Macy scared me a bit, but I really came to adore her. Fantastic!
Leigh Monroe is a felicitously engaging woman with her police chums and cohorts, her younger sister, or her best friend. I was somewhat amazed to learn of her tough younger years and her near total estrangement from her mother. In part since she is so openly friendly, helpful, and upbeat. Even if her partner raises his eyes heavenward at her panoply of self-help bullshit as he calls it, he seems to do so in loving fashion. As stimulating as police detectives are for me, I still could put Leigh at the head of the class for her style, humor, and devotion. Splendid!
I think I might read this again for a third time to uncover even more priceless, provocative, and precious moments. I truly admire books that have such depth that you can mine them over and over again with wonderment and gratification. Plus, there are two mysteries to unravel. I was practically on Cloud Nine! This is a super and sumptuous feast for the heart, mind, and spirit. Fantabulous!
NOTE: This book was provided by Bold Strokes Books for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
August 2, 2014
So once I figured out this was a romance novel and not a crime fiction novel, my mood while reading this improved.
"Reclusive forensic artist Macy Sheridan agrees to work one final case she hopes will solve the mystery that’s haunted her for years. The only things blocking her from achieving her goal are a perfect facial reconstruction and Detective Leigh Monroe, a woman who reminds her of the past and challenges her future."
The first half of this book was really awkward. The pacing was all over the place and I still have no idea what the characters looked like other than one had red hair. I liked the characters because the cop was always spouting off motivational sayings (endearing quirk), and the other character was an artist so she'd have these art moments. But honestly, every time the characters were in the same scene all the writing felt so forced.
The second half of the book was better because the story moved faster and finally the plot happened. There was a lot going on in the plot:
1. The love story
2. The cold case
3. The mysterious run-away who wants to find his family
4. The detective's estranged mother
Since this is a romance, most of the details were in the love story/sexy parts. And the other stuff was background noise.
If you enjoy lesbian romance books, you'll probably dig this.
If you're looking for a decent mystery book with lesbian romance on the side, maybe not this book.
"Reclusive forensic artist Macy Sheridan agrees to work one final case she hopes will solve the mystery that’s haunted her for years. The only things blocking her from achieving her goal are a perfect facial reconstruction and Detective Leigh Monroe, a woman who reminds her of the past and challenges her future."
The first half of this book was really awkward. The pacing was all over the place and I still have no idea what the characters looked like other than one had red hair. I liked the characters because the cop was always spouting off motivational sayings (endearing quirk), and the other character was an artist so she'd have these art moments. But honestly, every time the characters were in the same scene all the writing felt so forced.
The second half of the book was better because the story moved faster and finally the plot happened. There was a lot going on in the plot:
1. The love story
2. The cold case
3. The mysterious run-away who wants to find his family
4. The detective's estranged mother
Since this is a romance, most of the details were in the love story/sexy parts. And the other stuff was background noise.
If you enjoy lesbian romance books, you'll probably dig this.
If you're looking for a decent mystery book with lesbian romance on the side, maybe not this book.
July 11, 2020
A good enjoyable read, but for my personal tastes this was too insta love for me and not quite what I was expecting. I was hoping they would end up working the case together and that slow burn chemistry would build and walls would crumble and sparks would fly. I didn't feel the sparks or the chemistry between the two mains but the sex scenes were hot and very sexy. The mystery element was there but I had it worked out as soon as there was mystery about Jack. A good book this review isn't a critique just purely personal taste.
August 4, 2014
There were some great stakes in this one - Macy is in a reclusive period and heading toward a new rock bottom while Leigh is a strong women who is tired of being a doormat. I enjoy romance where the two protagonists progress into intimacy at different paces, but I don't like chases. This book did a great job of having them progress differently without giving me the feeling that one was pushing the other into things she wasn't ready for.
A good read.
A good read.
November 17, 2016
I think if I had remembered reading this book I would not have listened to it. It was ok, I found the narrator a little annoying but mostly I discovered that "listening" to a sex scene in a romance novel is dramatically different from reading one. I could not fast forward fast enough. Which is not a knock to the book or the narrator, my discomfort was all about me. I've made a mental not to never buy an audible romance again.
July 24, 2015
Classic lesbian mystery in the style of Katherine V Forrest, the steamy scenes were less appealing to me at age 59 than they might have been 30 years ago. Guess I need to wake up...but seriously, I'd have enjoyed a bit more mystery & a little less angst & sex. But for those who enjoy these elements, it's an extra good read!
August 15, 2014
*I was provided a free download of About Face by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to Bold Strokes Books for affording me this opportunity.*
Not having read previous novels by VK Powell, I was entering unfamiliar territory when I began reading About Face. Honestly, that makes me a little nervous. I'm not big on surprises, you know? Plus, knowing that I had to write a review and/or provide some feedback just increases the anxiety. What if it's really not that good? What if there's something in the story that just makes me want to close the eBook and not open it again? What if? What IF?
You see, I don't like posting a "bad" review. I don't mind providing constructive criticism. I have no problems discussing what works for me and what doesn't. But if I can't find some redeeming quality in the book - something that will allow me to read the novel in it's entirety, rather than giving up half-way through - then I just don't want to put that out in the world. I know there are people who say that I should, to "warn" others. But I always remember the old saying, "One person's garbage is another person's treasure." Just because I don't find redeeming qualities in a book doesn't mean that others aren't going to love it. I'd rather share what I deem a treasure.
I needn't have worried. Powell has offered her readers a romance mixed with some interesting characters, a complex romance, and a bit of mystery. The story is well-written and the mystery doesn't telegraph the solution.
Powell does a nice job of introducing us to the characters in the novel. Leigh and Macy are two women who have some definite issues that they are each dealing with. We learn enough about these issues at the beginning to keep us interested, but we're not given full backgrounds right up front. We're given hints now and then. And with each hint, we learn more about the sources of these issues and how each woman deals with them. Powell let's us see things from both Leigh's and Macy's points of view. In doing so, we have insight into how they think and how they cope (or don't) with various events in their lives. We're right there with them - along for the ride - as emotions surface and perspectives change. We feel every sharp turn and steep drop on the roller coaster of their relationship. And there are sharp turns and steep drops! Leigh and Macy each struggle to figure out what they want. Just when there's a glimpse that they might find it in each other, something comes along to bring doubt and distrust to the relationship. What I really like is that, while Leigh and Macy are on the same roller coaster, they aren't exactly riding in the same car. Each approaches the relationship in a different way and, without realizing it, helps the other to traverse each turn and drop. It's nicely done.
About Face is written in a style that is at once humorous, emotionally tense, and rich with the technical language found in law enforcement. Powell moves seamlessly from Leigh spouting self-help and bumper sticker slogans to Macy's sharp sarcasm. Everything is appropriate for the situation. The banter between and among the characters is witty and believable. The moments of high emotions and personal sharing hit the right levels to bring the reader into those moments. The language and tone each character uses allows the reader to become more fully invested in each person - and it makes each character distinguishable from the others. (Don't you hate it when you don't know who is talking? Or when someone says something that's completely out of character?) The one area that had me a bit shaken was the use of the technical language. Having been a police officer herself, it's very clear that Powell knows what she is talking about when it comes to law enforcement and forensics. She wields the terminology like a pro. I, however, am not a pro. So I often had to re-read certain sections to make sure I wasn't missing anything important or to visualize the scene. Regardless of the inaccuracies of procedural shows on TV, I was grateful for shows like "Bones" , "Rizzoli & Isles" and the like, which gave me at least a rudimentary understanding of the terminology. In other words, at least I had heard those words before. No, I didn't expect long sections of exposition explaining "dentition" or "mandibular profile." But a touch of "layman's terms" now and again would keep me fully in the story.
Again, Powell puts her own background to use when it comes to the mystery in About Face. A 16-year-old cold case and a current case dealing with a teenage boy pepper the story and give us insight into the professional lives of the characters. More than that, Powell weaves these cases nicely into the building - albeit complicated - relationship between Leigh and Macy. Additionally, we get additional insights into other characters in the novel and their individual and collective purposes. First and foremost, About Face is a romance. So the mystery, appropriately, does not take center stage and dominate the novel. However, Powell does an excellent job of slowly weaving the mystery into the romance. And she does so in such a way that the reveal at the end is not telegraphed or predictable. I like that. I don't want to be able to figure out that it was "Miss Scarlet, in the kitchen, with the revolver" two-thirds of the way into the story. I didn't do that here. When the proverbial bomb was dropped, I was taken by surprise. While the resolution was not telegraphed or predictable, I was still able to think back over the clues and hints given throughout the story and say, "Aha! I see it!"
Overall, I'm pleased with my first experience reading Powell's work. It's a well-written, satisfying story with interesting characters, an intriguing mystery, complex relationships, and some steamy sex scenes. You'll have to experience those for yourself - don't expect me to spoil the fun.
Reclusive forensic artist Macy Sheridan agrees to work one final case she hopes will solve the mystery that's haunted her for years. The only things blocking her from achieving her goal are a perfect facial reconstruction and Detective Leigh Monroe, a woman who reminds her of the past and challenges her future.
Leigh Monroe has lost her lover, her livelihood, and her home, but she chooses to look on the bright side. What else could go wrong? Then she meets rude, solitary Macy Sheridan. But Leigh discovers that Macy's façade is a mask, yet as real and untouchable as the forensic reconstructions she so meticulously creates.
Not having read previous novels by VK Powell, I was entering unfamiliar territory when I began reading About Face. Honestly, that makes me a little nervous. I'm not big on surprises, you know? Plus, knowing that I had to write a review and/or provide some feedback just increases the anxiety. What if it's really not that good? What if there's something in the story that just makes me want to close the eBook and not open it again? What if? What IF?
You see, I don't like posting a "bad" review. I don't mind providing constructive criticism. I have no problems discussing what works for me and what doesn't. But if I can't find some redeeming quality in the book - something that will allow me to read the novel in it's entirety, rather than giving up half-way through - then I just don't want to put that out in the world. I know there are people who say that I should, to "warn" others. But I always remember the old saying, "One person's garbage is another person's treasure." Just because I don't find redeeming qualities in a book doesn't mean that others aren't going to love it. I'd rather share what I deem a treasure.
I needn't have worried. Powell has offered her readers a romance mixed with some interesting characters, a complex romance, and a bit of mystery. The story is well-written and the mystery doesn't telegraph the solution.
Powell does a nice job of introducing us to the characters in the novel. Leigh and Macy are two women who have some definite issues that they are each dealing with. We learn enough about these issues at the beginning to keep us interested, but we're not given full backgrounds right up front. We're given hints now and then. And with each hint, we learn more about the sources of these issues and how each woman deals with them. Powell let's us see things from both Leigh's and Macy's points of view. In doing so, we have insight into how they think and how they cope (or don't) with various events in their lives. We're right there with them - along for the ride - as emotions surface and perspectives change. We feel every sharp turn and steep drop on the roller coaster of their relationship. And there are sharp turns and steep drops! Leigh and Macy each struggle to figure out what they want. Just when there's a glimpse that they might find it in each other, something comes along to bring doubt and distrust to the relationship. What I really like is that, while Leigh and Macy are on the same roller coaster, they aren't exactly riding in the same car. Each approaches the relationship in a different way and, without realizing it, helps the other to traverse each turn and drop. It's nicely done.
About Face is written in a style that is at once humorous, emotionally tense, and rich with the technical language found in law enforcement. Powell moves seamlessly from Leigh spouting self-help and bumper sticker slogans to Macy's sharp sarcasm. Everything is appropriate for the situation. The banter between and among the characters is witty and believable. The moments of high emotions and personal sharing hit the right levels to bring the reader into those moments. The language and tone each character uses allows the reader to become more fully invested in each person - and it makes each character distinguishable from the others. (Don't you hate it when you don't know who is talking? Or when someone says something that's completely out of character?) The one area that had me a bit shaken was the use of the technical language. Having been a police officer herself, it's very clear that Powell knows what she is talking about when it comes to law enforcement and forensics. She wields the terminology like a pro. I, however, am not a pro. So I often had to re-read certain sections to make sure I wasn't missing anything important or to visualize the scene. Regardless of the inaccuracies of procedural shows on TV, I was grateful for shows like "Bones" , "Rizzoli & Isles" and the like, which gave me at least a rudimentary understanding of the terminology. In other words, at least I had heard those words before. No, I didn't expect long sections of exposition explaining "dentition" or "mandibular profile." But a touch of "layman's terms" now and again would keep me fully in the story.
Again, Powell puts her own background to use when it comes to the mystery in About Face. A 16-year-old cold case and a current case dealing with a teenage boy pepper the story and give us insight into the professional lives of the characters. More than that, Powell weaves these cases nicely into the building - albeit complicated - relationship between Leigh and Macy. Additionally, we get additional insights into other characters in the novel and their individual and collective purposes. First and foremost, About Face is a romance. So the mystery, appropriately, does not take center stage and dominate the novel. However, Powell does an excellent job of slowly weaving the mystery into the romance. And she does so in such a way that the reveal at the end is not telegraphed or predictable. I like that. I don't want to be able to figure out that it was "Miss Scarlet, in the kitchen, with the revolver" two-thirds of the way into the story. I didn't do that here. When the proverbial bomb was dropped, I was taken by surprise. While the resolution was not telegraphed or predictable, I was still able to think back over the clues and hints given throughout the story and say, "Aha! I see it!"
Overall, I'm pleased with my first experience reading Powell's work. It's a well-written, satisfying story with interesting characters, an intriguing mystery, complex relationships, and some steamy sex scenes. You'll have to experience those for yourself - don't expect me to spoil the fun.
October 13, 2022
The audiobook narrator wasn’t bad. (I prefer reading but have to listen for now due to impending surgeries, I think.) I believe this may be the 3rd or 4th book I’ve read from this author and after I finally read her profile, her expertise regarding police matters now makes sense.
This is a good book. It’s well written and interesting how well the plot twists and turns play out. (Some might find all the coincidences and such a little off putting, but I thought they were creative.) it is very easy to understand the almost neurotic behaviors of one of the main characters. If I put myself into her place, I would probably be very similar to her in my own behavior. All of the characters are likable, in their own way, but, Leigh is by far the one that stands out, as it should as she, in my mind, is the main focus.
I will definitely continue to read stories by this author and feel like I get my money’s worth. Will definitely be reading more by her.
This is a good book. It’s well written and interesting how well the plot twists and turns play out. (Some might find all the coincidences and such a little off putting, but I thought they were creative.) it is very easy to understand the almost neurotic behaviors of one of the main characters. If I put myself into her place, I would probably be very similar to her in my own behavior. All of the characters are likable, in their own way, but, Leigh is by far the one that stands out, as it should as she, in my mind, is the main focus.
I will definitely continue to read stories by this author and feel like I get my money’s worth. Will definitely be reading more by her.
August 11, 2022
Let's see. From the start, Macy is caustic and rude to Leigh without reason, and I can't imagine someone wanting to move in with a landlord who suddenly says that they've changed their mind and won't rent the place despite putting out an ad and having the prospective tenant drive for close to an hour to get there. The author also casually mentions Macy having sex with the grad students she hires as nude models, which... eww.
Leigh, on the other hand, willfully ignores Macy's expressed request of space and distance, and even after getting a no - several times, I might add - still continues to pursue Macy as if she hadn't been rejected. They're both terrible. I didn't finish the book.
Leigh, on the other hand, willfully ignores Macy's expressed request of space and distance, and even after getting a no - several times, I might add - still continues to pursue Macy as if she hadn't been rejected. They're both terrible. I didn't finish the book.
April 18, 2018
Discovered this little gem on my "to read" pile and dove in. I really liked Detective Leigh Monroe. She wasn't the usual super cop, but she wasn't an idiot, either. I felt horrible for Macy, and just wanted to give her a hug.
So, I'm enjoying the story, thinking I've got a pretty good idea what's going on, when it all shifted and caught me off-guard. I uttered a "holy sh*t!", which wouldn't have been so bad, had my wife not been sleeping next to me. Almost woke her up LOL.
Needless to say, I enjoyed this one.
So, I'm enjoying the story, thinking I've got a pretty good idea what's going on, when it all shifted and caught me off-guard. I uttered a "holy sh*t!", which wouldn't have been so bad, had my wife not been sleeping next to me. Almost woke her up LOL.
Needless to say, I enjoyed this one.
September 7, 2019
I really enjoyed this book. I found the main characters both interesting and enticing. A true case of opposites attracting each other. The underlying story was good and all the disparate pieces woven together nicely to form a coherent , if somewhat predictable resolution. When Leigh and Macy get together you can feel the sizzle between them. Just some great scenes. Will continue to read more of Ms. Powell's writing.
July 24, 2024
This was my first book by VK Powell, and while I didn't love this one, there was a lot to like about it and I would very much like to try more by this author. About Face was well written, with interesting characters. The plot was a little convoluted and the final reveals a little too neatly tied up. My favorite bits were getting a window in on the forensic arts reconstruction process, which was fascinating.
May 27, 2023
Interesting mystery inside of a mystery. The two main characters are both multifaceted. Lots of loose ends that had to be solved, lots of complications that had to be resolved, and lots of love, misunderstandings and hot sex.
August 14, 2014
*I received this book through Netgalley in return for an honest review.
Macy Sheridan's dream was to be a full time artist, but doing forensic reconstruction work paid the bills. That is, it did until she walked out of the police department and vowed never to work with them again. How could she when they refused to do the only thing she'd ever asked of them, to reopen the missing person's case that has been haunting her for over 15 years. As the constant memory of her lost best friend draws her deeper into depression, Macy isn't able to anything more than simple sketches, and with no income, she puts out an ad to rent the lake front apartment on her property. When an office shows up at her door asking her to do one last case, Macy is not sure she can handle it, but she can not pass up an opportunity to find some form of closure.
Leigh Monroe has hit rock bottom. She's been suspended from her job as detective in the Youth Crimes division for doing the right thing. Her mother is once again causing problems in her life. She's finally admitted to herself that the one sided relationship she's been in for three years is never going to work, and she needs to get out of her ex's place as soon as possible. A lake front apartment away from the city seems like the perfect place, and sparks fly as soon as she meets the beautiful, but hurting potential landlord.
Although suspended, Leigh is given a special assignment to look back into an unsolved missing persons case. The very first case she worked as a trainee over 15 years ago, and a case that had bothered her ever since. As Macy and Leigh share close quarters, the attraction between them is undeniable. As time goes by, they find themselves sharing more and more until eventually, Leigh wants to share everything and build a life together. But first she has to do everything she can to solve the case, so that Macy can move on from a lifetime of pain.
This book had so many good points, but it also has one giant glaring flaw that almost ruined it for me completely.
First off, the premise is really interesting. I read a good bit of romantic suspense/mystery and I've come across the "cop unknowingly getting intimately involved with witness" scenario and usually it's completely unbelievable, but V.K. Powell did a very good job of making it work.
I really like Leigh a lot. I liked her interactions with her sister and with her best friend Pam. I liked the way she handled the confrontation with her ex. And I liked the way that she grew emotionally and was able to open up with her mother.
I liked Macy as well, especially the back story involving her feelings for Jesse. I liked that, neither character wanted to jump right into a relationship, considering both of their pasts, that would have been unrealistic. I liked the way that Leigh was able to slowly get Macy to come out of her shell and really talk about her emotions. I enjoyed the romance between the two of them, the build up and then the intense love scenes.
Basically, i thought the romance part of the book was great.
But I absolutely hated the suspense/mystery part. It started off pretty good. Like I said I thought the premise was great. Macy is the left behind friend. She went out to a club with her best friend and never saw her again but still thinks about her everyday. Leigh was the young cop who was not satisfied with way the case was handled who years later wants to investigate the case like it should have been done 15 years before. They both have something at stake in this case. It sounds great right. And then comes the monkey wrench in the story. A 15 year old boy named Jack. Jack shows up at he police department, demands to speak to Leigh, wanting her to find his father's family, but will not provide any information about himself, not even a full name, or where he is from, or his mother or father's name. For the longest time while reading this, I tried to figure out what Jack's purpose in this book was, and for the life of me I just could not guess. And that is because, when it is revealed it made absolutely no sense at all. It just seemed like an easy way out to solve a bunch of problems at once and tie everything up with a neat little bow. I don't think I have ever once complained that an HEA in a romance novel was just too happy, but this one was. I can't explain it with out spoiling the end so I won't, just know that Deus ex machina was involved and I don't like it.
I'm still giving this book 3 stars because again, I really liked the romance part of it. If I could just take a red pen and remove certain parts it would have gotten a higher rating. This was my first time reading VK Powell, and while I was disappointed by the end of the book, I think there was enough good for me to giver her another try.
Macy Sheridan's dream was to be a full time artist, but doing forensic reconstruction work paid the bills. That is, it did until she walked out of the police department and vowed never to work with them again. How could she when they refused to do the only thing she'd ever asked of them, to reopen the missing person's case that has been haunting her for over 15 years. As the constant memory of her lost best friend draws her deeper into depression, Macy isn't able to anything more than simple sketches, and with no income, she puts out an ad to rent the lake front apartment on her property. When an office shows up at her door asking her to do one last case, Macy is not sure she can handle it, but she can not pass up an opportunity to find some form of closure.
Leigh Monroe has hit rock bottom. She's been suspended from her job as detective in the Youth Crimes division for doing the right thing. Her mother is once again causing problems in her life. She's finally admitted to herself that the one sided relationship she's been in for three years is never going to work, and she needs to get out of her ex's place as soon as possible. A lake front apartment away from the city seems like the perfect place, and sparks fly as soon as she meets the beautiful, but hurting potential landlord.
Although suspended, Leigh is given a special assignment to look back into an unsolved missing persons case. The very first case she worked as a trainee over 15 years ago, and a case that had bothered her ever since. As Macy and Leigh share close quarters, the attraction between them is undeniable. As time goes by, they find themselves sharing more and more until eventually, Leigh wants to share everything and build a life together. But first she has to do everything she can to solve the case, so that Macy can move on from a lifetime of pain.
This book had so many good points, but it also has one giant glaring flaw that almost ruined it for me completely.
First off, the premise is really interesting. I read a good bit of romantic suspense/mystery and I've come across the "cop unknowingly getting intimately involved with witness" scenario and usually it's completely unbelievable, but V.K. Powell did a very good job of making it work.
I really like Leigh a lot. I liked her interactions with her sister and with her best friend Pam. I liked the way she handled the confrontation with her ex. And I liked the way that she grew emotionally and was able to open up with her mother.
I liked Macy as well, especially the back story involving her feelings for Jesse. I liked that, neither character wanted to jump right into a relationship, considering both of their pasts, that would have been unrealistic. I liked the way that Leigh was able to slowly get Macy to come out of her shell and really talk about her emotions. I enjoyed the romance between the two of them, the build up and then the intense love scenes.
Basically, i thought the romance part of the book was great.
But I absolutely hated the suspense/mystery part. It started off pretty good. Like I said I thought the premise was great. Macy is the left behind friend. She went out to a club with her best friend and never saw her again but still thinks about her everyday. Leigh was the young cop who was not satisfied with way the case was handled who years later wants to investigate the case like it should have been done 15 years before. They both have something at stake in this case. It sounds great right. And then comes the monkey wrench in the story. A 15 year old boy named Jack. Jack shows up at he police department, demands to speak to Leigh, wanting her to find his father's family, but will not provide any information about himself, not even a full name, or where he is from, or his mother or father's name. For the longest time while reading this, I tried to figure out what Jack's purpose in this book was, and for the life of me I just could not guess. And that is because, when it is revealed it made absolutely no sense at all. It just seemed like an easy way out to solve a bunch of problems at once and tie everything up with a neat little bow. I don't think I have ever once complained that an HEA in a romance novel was just too happy, but this one was. I can't explain it with out spoiling the end so I won't, just know that Deus ex machina was involved and I don't like it.
I'm still giving this book 3 stars because again, I really liked the romance part of it. If I could just take a red pen and remove certain parts it would have gotten a higher rating. This was my first time reading VK Powell, and while I was disappointed by the end of the book, I think there was enough good for me to giver her another try.
June 12, 2015
Finished reading this one early and in one day. Pretty amazing book the story was well told and there was so much going on with both women that I actually felt what they were going throw. I love how they help one another find what they were always looking for even if they didn't know what they were looking for at first. The story was pretty crazy too how it all fit in perfectly in the end. I can wait to read another book by Powell this was my first book by her and i hope all of them are as good as this one.!!!!
May 23, 2020
I liked it! The characters are very nice and interesting, expecially Macy and Jack. Although there were no surprises, the story ran very smoothly - I'm sure I'll listen to it again. Gabra Zackman is an excellent narrator.
September 18, 2014
Couldn't put it down. Great read
January 29, 2015
Another good read by VK Powell.
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