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Jessica Huntington #2
A Dead Sister
Jessica Huntington, rich, smart, and beautiful, seeks refuge from betrayal in a desert paradise only to discover life is full of surprises like...
A DEAD SISTER!
Jessica Huntington's philandering husband and his she-beast aren't done with her yet. It's not just the debacle on Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills that has Jessica wondering if the shopping gods have it in for her. There's more trouble on El Paseo, too!
Jessica and her 'cat pack' friends are back in this, the second Jessica Huntington Desert Cities Mystery. Jessica's childhood friend, Kelly Fontana, was killed soon after graduating from high school. The victim of a hit-and-run accident in downtown Palm Springs, the investigation into her death quickly grew cold. Now more than a decade later a lowlife meth addict claims to have witnessed her death and swears:
"It weren't no accident! It was on purpose."
Why would someone do such a thing to the 19-year-old, auburn-haired beauty with a voice like an angel and a streak of wild? Can Jessica and her friends figure out who killed her and, finally, get justice for Kelly? Will they get him before he gets them?
A DEAD SISTER!
Jessica Huntington's philandering husband and his she-beast aren't done with her yet. It's not just the debacle on Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills that has Jessica wondering if the shopping gods have it in for her. There's more trouble on El Paseo, too!
Jessica and her 'cat pack' friends are back in this, the second Jessica Huntington Desert Cities Mystery. Jessica's childhood friend, Kelly Fontana, was killed soon after graduating from high school. The victim of a hit-and-run accident in downtown Palm Springs, the investigation into her death quickly grew cold. Now more than a decade later a lowlife meth addict claims to have witnessed her death and swears:
"It weren't no accident! It was on purpose."
Why would someone do such a thing to the 19-year-old, auburn-haired beauty with a voice like an angel and a streak of wild? Can Jessica and her friends figure out who killed her and, finally, get justice for Kelly? Will they get him before he gets them?
355 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 10, 2014
471 people are currently reading
1005 people want to read
About the author
Anna Celeste Burke
52 books1,167 followersAnna Celeste Burke is an awarding-winning, USA Today & Wall Street Journal Bestselling author!
Welcome! Join me, snooping into life's mysteries with fun, fiction, and food--California style!
Life is an extravaganza and so unpredictable! Figuring out how to hang tough and make the most of the wild ride is the challenge.
On my way to Oahu to join the rock musician and high school drop-out I married in Tijuana, I was nabbed by the police as a runaway. When the police let me go and the rock band broke up, my husband and I had to find another way to survive. Our next stop: Disney World where we trained to be chefs, courtesy of the Walt Disney World University.
A GED for my husband, and many more years of education eventually landed us in academia—with Ph.D.s from the University of Michigan we took professor jobs with U of M’s longstanding football rival, The Ohio State University.
Retired now from my role as a professor in social work and behavioral science, I have picked up a long-time interest in writing fiction. In my professional career I wrote and published widely as a scholar, with more than forty manuscripts of varying lengths on my vita. I also carried out hundreds of training, consulting and speaking engagements on a number of gloriously nerdy topics.
So what on earth does a research scientist have in common with a mystery writer? As avid fans of the mystery genre will tell you at the core of any good mystery is a passionate search for the truth. Discovering the truth involves finding and assembling pieces of complex puzzles in order to solve seemingly intractable problems—scientist and sleuth are cut from the same cloth!
Still married to the same sweet guy, I live with my husband in one of the seven desert resort cities in the Palm Springs area. In addition to reading and writing mysteries I enjoy painting, hiking, hanging out with my handsome husband and tending to my Siamese cats.
The Sonoran Desert is a beautiful setting to ponder life’s mysteries, by the surrounding mountains and the bountiful delights of the desert resort communities. I hope you enjoy reading the books in my three cozy mystery series: The Jessica Huntington Desert Cities Mystery Series, The Corsario Cove Cozy Mystery Series, and the Georgie Shaw Cozy Mystery Series. Cheers! Anna
Welcome! Join me, snooping into life's mysteries with fun, fiction, and food--California style!
Life is an extravaganza and so unpredictable! Figuring out how to hang tough and make the most of the wild ride is the challenge.
On my way to Oahu to join the rock musician and high school drop-out I married in Tijuana, I was nabbed by the police as a runaway. When the police let me go and the rock band broke up, my husband and I had to find another way to survive. Our next stop: Disney World where we trained to be chefs, courtesy of the Walt Disney World University.
A GED for my husband, and many more years of education eventually landed us in academia—with Ph.D.s from the University of Michigan we took professor jobs with U of M’s longstanding football rival, The Ohio State University.
Retired now from my role as a professor in social work and behavioral science, I have picked up a long-time interest in writing fiction. In my professional career I wrote and published widely as a scholar, with more than forty manuscripts of varying lengths on my vita. I also carried out hundreds of training, consulting and speaking engagements on a number of gloriously nerdy topics.
So what on earth does a research scientist have in common with a mystery writer? As avid fans of the mystery genre will tell you at the core of any good mystery is a passionate search for the truth. Discovering the truth involves finding and assembling pieces of complex puzzles in order to solve seemingly intractable problems—scientist and sleuth are cut from the same cloth!
Still married to the same sweet guy, I live with my husband in one of the seven desert resort cities in the Palm Springs area. In addition to reading and writing mysteries I enjoy painting, hiking, hanging out with my handsome husband and tending to my Siamese cats.
The Sonoran Desert is a beautiful setting to ponder life’s mysteries, by the surrounding mountains and the bountiful delights of the desert resort communities. I hope you enjoy reading the books in my three cozy mystery series: The Jessica Huntington Desert Cities Mystery Series, The Corsario Cove Cozy Mystery Series, and the Georgie Shaw Cozy Mystery Series. Cheers! Anna
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
October 30, 2018
In this second book of the series, poor little rich girl Jessica's divorce is finalized, with only 5 or 6 very eligible bachelors lusting after her to console her.
Eventually, we get to the meat of the story. Jessica had a friend that died about 15 years ago in a mysterious manner. Jessica investigates, and finds out stuff she wishes she hadn't.
Sort of a Stephanie Plum knock-off, only with the protagonist being idly rich.
Eventually, we get to the meat of the story. Jessica had a friend that died about 15 years ago in a mysterious manner. Jessica investigates, and finds out stuff she wishes she hadn't.
Sort of a Stephanie Plum knock-off, only with the protagonist being idly rich.
November 12, 2015
I couldn't put this book down! It grips you right from the start with a spellbinding account of a young girl's desperate (and ultimately unsuccessful) attempt to escape kidnappers-turned-murderers. Subsequent chapters are propelled relentlessly forward by Jessica Huntington's quest to discover the identities and motives of those who murdered her friend. The perpetrators' tactics for fending off Jessica and her associates become increasingly malicious and deadly.
Yet despite the murder and mayhem, the overall tone of the book is hopeful and uplifting, with lighthearted moments and loveable characters. Those who enjoyed A Dead Husband will rejoice in the re-appearance of the "Cat Pack" (a Cathedral City twist on the 50's "Rat Pack"), including beloved mother figure Bernadette, goofy surfer-boy Brien, and lovebirds Jerry and Tommy.
Building beautifully on A Dead Husband, this book adds depth to the characters, especially Jessica. Flashbacks to her childhood shed light on her present-day anxieties. Although her rich parents gave her everything, and she seemed a "spoiled brat" as a teen, the cause of her "brattiness" was not what was given, but what was suddenly taken away--the security of an intact, loving family. Might a kid wonder: if my parents can fall out of love with each other, will they lose their love for me? That constant fear of abandonment must take a toll. The adult Jessica is generous and caring but also anxious and vulnerable. Her wealth has not protected her from further tragedy, but her suffering is prompting her to think more deeply about relationships and spirituality. Her husband's blatant philandering still has her reeling, but that experience is helping her to appreciate the qualities of a truly good man--and more than one interesting and kind man admires Jessica right back.
Like the first book, this one is as informative as it is entertaining. Well-researched, it provides lush and absorbing descriptions of southern California's desert cities, including their playgrounds for the wealthy, natural beauty, and unique lifestyle and history. The epic gourmet food and shopping scenes, alone, are worth the price of admission! In addition, there are behind-the-scenes glimpses into the criminal justice system and the world of large law firms, from their opulent upper echelons to their sweat-shop-like lower levels endured by new lawyers.
This unique and delightful series is not to be missed!
Yet despite the murder and mayhem, the overall tone of the book is hopeful and uplifting, with lighthearted moments and loveable characters. Those who enjoyed A Dead Husband will rejoice in the re-appearance of the "Cat Pack" (a Cathedral City twist on the 50's "Rat Pack"), including beloved mother figure Bernadette, goofy surfer-boy Brien, and lovebirds Jerry and Tommy.
Building beautifully on A Dead Husband, this book adds depth to the characters, especially Jessica. Flashbacks to her childhood shed light on her present-day anxieties. Although her rich parents gave her everything, and she seemed a "spoiled brat" as a teen, the cause of her "brattiness" was not what was given, but what was suddenly taken away--the security of an intact, loving family. Might a kid wonder: if my parents can fall out of love with each other, will they lose their love for me? That constant fear of abandonment must take a toll. The adult Jessica is generous and caring but also anxious and vulnerable. Her wealth has not protected her from further tragedy, but her suffering is prompting her to think more deeply about relationships and spirituality. Her husband's blatant philandering still has her reeling, but that experience is helping her to appreciate the qualities of a truly good man--and more than one interesting and kind man admires Jessica right back.
Like the first book, this one is as informative as it is entertaining. Well-researched, it provides lush and absorbing descriptions of southern California's desert cities, including their playgrounds for the wealthy, natural beauty, and unique lifestyle and history. The epic gourmet food and shopping scenes, alone, are worth the price of admission! In addition, there are behind-the-scenes glimpses into the criminal justice system and the world of large law firms, from their opulent upper echelons to their sweat-shop-like lower levels endured by new lawyers.
This unique and delightful series is not to be missed!
July 2, 2015
This Intriguing Mystery And Suspense Is The PERFECT Weekend Read!
In the process of divorcing her cheating husband, Jessica Huntington is considering a slew of stressful and challenging life changing decisions when she's approached by a friend who has some startling information. Apparently, there'd been a witness to the hit and run death of Jessica's best friend that'd occurred several years before. Turns out Kelly Fontana, police officer Frank Fontana's cousin, may have been struck down intentionally.
And so begins the investigation by Jessica, who's decided to resume her career as a lawyer. She's able to use her position in a prestigious law firm to help get answers, and, with the assistance of her friends, including Kelly Fontana's brother, she methodically tackles all the twists and turns that arise when they attempt to solve the mystery of why Tommy's sister had been killed.
A Dead Sister features a fun and sassy heroine who you can't help but love, as well as sympathize with, from the moment you begin reading. Although she enjoys her shopping, and has a love of fine cuisine, Jessica's a woman who's loving and generous to a fault, and never hesitates to share her wealth with her `cat pack' friends. She even has a way with kids!
This author is an incredibly talented writer who successfully brings an interesting array of characters to life. And, through Jessica's eyes, she sets the background of her story beautifully, detailing the vivid panoramic imagery of the scenic west.
The tension is great between Frank and Jessica, and Jessica's emotions run up and down like a rollercoaster as they battle their attraction for each other. But, understandably, Jessica feels that it's way too soon to jump into another relationship.
While trouble seems to follow behind Jessica WHEREVER she goes.
Action, suspense, mystery, and romance--this #MUSTREAD novel has it all!
In the process of divorcing her cheating husband, Jessica Huntington is considering a slew of stressful and challenging life changing decisions when she's approached by a friend who has some startling information. Apparently, there'd been a witness to the hit and run death of Jessica's best friend that'd occurred several years before. Turns out Kelly Fontana, police officer Frank Fontana's cousin, may have been struck down intentionally.
And so begins the investigation by Jessica, who's decided to resume her career as a lawyer. She's able to use her position in a prestigious law firm to help get answers, and, with the assistance of her friends, including Kelly Fontana's brother, she methodically tackles all the twists and turns that arise when they attempt to solve the mystery of why Tommy's sister had been killed.
A Dead Sister features a fun and sassy heroine who you can't help but love, as well as sympathize with, from the moment you begin reading. Although she enjoys her shopping, and has a love of fine cuisine, Jessica's a woman who's loving and generous to a fault, and never hesitates to share her wealth with her `cat pack' friends. She even has a way with kids!
This author is an incredibly talented writer who successfully brings an interesting array of characters to life. And, through Jessica's eyes, she sets the background of her story beautifully, detailing the vivid panoramic imagery of the scenic west.
The tension is great between Frank and Jessica, and Jessica's emotions run up and down like a rollercoaster as they battle their attraction for each other. But, understandably, Jessica feels that it's way too soon to jump into another relationship.
While trouble seems to follow behind Jessica WHEREVER she goes.
Action, suspense, mystery, and romance--this #MUSTREAD novel has it all!
August 1, 2014
“A Dead Sister” by Anna Burke is an excellent follow up to her “Dead Husband”. Jessica Huntington has a lot on her plate, especially after her last adventure. In this novel she looks into the death of one of her friends who dies in a mysterious accident 14 years ago.
The book balances her private issues, such as the broken down marriage, and her intimate connection to the victim well, making for a very personal and heart felt investigation, which lends the story more gravity and power.
Jessica is a great lead character with strong emotions, thoughtful and clever whose circumstances show that money and looks still won’t necessarily buy you happiness. But she has good people around her and she won’t quit until she finds out the truth.
The detective part is well written and at times very compelling. A must for fans of detective novels with interesting settings and fascinating characters. Very recommendable.
The book balances her private issues, such as the broken down marriage, and her intimate connection to the victim well, making for a very personal and heart felt investigation, which lends the story more gravity and power.
Jessica is a great lead character with strong emotions, thoughtful and clever whose circumstances show that money and looks still won’t necessarily buy you happiness. But she has good people around her and she won’t quit until she finds out the truth.
The detective part is well written and at times very compelling. A must for fans of detective novels with interesting settings and fascinating characters. Very recommendable.
January 13, 2023
This was a good followup. Jessica and the Cat Pack investigates the 15+ year murder of her childhood best friend Kelly, who also happens to be the sister of Tommy. Between sabotaged cars and murdered witnesses, Jessica and Co. race to find this wily killer before Jessica becomes the next victim.
January 30, 2018
In this second book, Jessica is pulled into the cold case of the hit-and- run accident that killed one of her best friends shortly after their graduation from high school. Kelly Fontana was the sister of Tommy and cousin to Frank Fontana, the friends involved in solving the murder of their friend Laura's husband. Police Detective, Frank, has been alerted to the news that a scumbag meth addict has eye witness information about the accident that he wants to trade for a reduced sentence in his latest bust. It has been more than 10 years since Kelly's death and there had been no closure for the family. Under the watchful eye of Bernadette, her mother's estate manager, Jessica and her friends, informally known as the Cat Pack, get to work on the information. Thanks to the magic of Jessica's Black AMEX Card, she has a security firm on retainer, an inside track with three police departments, Laura's hospital connections and the unswerving loyalty of friends in her new law office position. Things quickly heat up with missing witnesses, dead bodies and clues leading to a prominent music producer!
The action is nonstop, the writing flows smoothly, the characters are wacky, lovable, funny and endearingly human! What more could you want in an entertaining adventure that has you laughing hard while sitting on the edge of your seat. A must read for both mystery and cozy fans.
The action is nonstop, the writing flows smoothly, the characters are wacky, lovable, funny and endearingly human! What more could you want in an entertaining adventure that has you laughing hard while sitting on the edge of your seat. A must read for both mystery and cozy fans.
June 16, 2014
A DEAD SISTER ANNA CELESTE BURKE.
Not long after solving the murder of Laura’s dead husband Roger, Jessica and the cat pack are thrust into another case involving their friend Kelly who was killed in a car accident fifteen years prior. Things are not what they seem when an eye witness comes forward with new information.
What follows is another wild ride into the seemier side of fame and the nasty bi-products of the good life. There are users and abusers who prey on the innocent. Jessica and her friends find out some nasty truths about what Kelly was up to right before her death.
This story feels a tad darker than A DEAD HUSBAND. However it has lighter moments as the cat pack bands together and as Jessica starts to move forward.
The author, ANNA CELESTE BURKE has done another great job in story telling that keeps her readers captivated by the plot and the myriad of characters. By the time you finish reading a DESERT CITIES MYSTERY the characters will be your friends.
Another 5 star read to be enjoyed by all mystery fans.
Not long after solving the murder of Laura’s dead husband Roger, Jessica and the cat pack are thrust into another case involving their friend Kelly who was killed in a car accident fifteen years prior. Things are not what they seem when an eye witness comes forward with new information.
What follows is another wild ride into the seemier side of fame and the nasty bi-products of the good life. There are users and abusers who prey on the innocent. Jessica and her friends find out some nasty truths about what Kelly was up to right before her death.
This story feels a tad darker than A DEAD HUSBAND. However it has lighter moments as the cat pack bands together and as Jessica starts to move forward.
The author, ANNA CELESTE BURKE has done another great job in story telling that keeps her readers captivated by the plot and the myriad of characters. By the time you finish reading a DESERT CITIES MYSTERY the characters will be your friends.
Another 5 star read to be enjoyed by all mystery fans.
April 5, 2017
“Was justice the antidote to envy, virtue the counterpart to vice? Could love prevail against even the vilest acts of desperate mortals?” Father Martin is trying to help Jessica understand the whys of the things happening to her and around her AND I am not just talking about her soon-to-be-ex and his latest skank! She is still trying to work her way through her bff’s husband when some information comes to her about a 15-year old accidental death which may not be so accidental. Jessica and her cat pack get involved and … Oh, well, that would be telling. Just remember that the arc of the moral universe is long but bends toward justice as you read this book which I DO recommend.
September 25, 2017
Started too slow for me. Too much shopping details. However the slog thru the early parts was rewarded with an very satisfying least half.
March 21, 2018
A Dead Sister review
A Dead Sister is the second fast-paced book in the Jessica Huntington Desert Cities Mystery Book series written by author Anna Celeste Burke.
A Dead Sister is the second fast-paced book in the Jessica Huntington Desert Cities Mystery Book series written by author Anna Celeste Burke.
Want to read
October 16, 2019Author Gift
August 18, 2017
Wow. Another great book b the author. It picks up where A Dead Husband leaves off. Enjoyed the further character development. Full of twists and turns. Now I want to read the next book!!!!
October 26, 2019
I actually listened to the audiobook! The narrator does such an excellent job, I enjoy listening to these books!
The main characters are complex and many are flawed. They get into harrowing situations, although they do survive. Several provide comic relief. There are plenty of surprises in the plot.
The main characters are complex and many are flawed. They get into harrowing situations, although they do survive. Several provide comic relief. There are plenty of surprises in the plot.
August 22, 2017
The Cat Pack just gets better and better.
May 4, 2016
http://openbooksociety.com/article/a-...
Review:
This is the second book of the Jessica Huntington series by Anna Celeste Burke and the second book I have read by this author. If you have not read the first book, I strongly suggest you start with that book and then read this second book in the series….you won’t be disappointed! I am amazed at how the story engages me as a reader, I become so immersed that I literally do not want to put the book down. In my books (pun intended), this is a true sign of a really good book.
Jessica and the ‘Cat Pack’ are just one week off of solving Roger’s murder from The Dead Husband (the first book in the Jessica Huntington Desert Cities Mystery series) and the gang becomes quickly immersed in a cold case (15 years cold) involving the death of Jessica and Laura’s high school friend Kelly Fontana. Recently a witness came forward and indicated it was not an accident but murder. In true Jessica fashion, she rallies the Cat Pack and another adventure is born. To prove what really happened to Kelly that fateful night.
The continued development of Jessica as a recently divorced woman was really great. I enjoyed the many aspects of her! Re-igniting her career as a lawyer, taking much needed steps to work through the trauma of discovering her soon to be ex-husband with another woman in their family bed (not a spoiler as we knew about the betrayal from the first book), and just becoming comfortable with herself and the complex world she lives in (i.e. bad things do happen to rich folks too!). I enjoyed the evolution of the relationships that were beginning to develop between Jessica and two interested parties: Frank and Paul. I cannot wait to see where this will go!
In addition – I truly enjoyed the evolution of the members of the cat pack: Tommy, Jerry, Brien, Bernadette. The casino scene and Bernadette had me chuckling (another good point for the book…the chuckle factor). I obviously was a bit distracted by the story as it took me a short while to relate the ice cream (Tom and Jerry) to the cat pack couple of Tommy and Jerry…..another little chuckle. All I can say is I truly appreciate Ms. Burke’s sense of humor in her writing….clever as it is.
The bad guys were truly bad, heinous individuals. The mystery was maintained for a good long while throughout the story…another point in favor of this wonderful book. The intricacies surround what they did and for the length of time that they conducted all their “bad guy” stuff was interesting. The way the cat pack all worked on solving various components of the mystery (according to their interests and expertise) added some reality. Not one person has the skill or knowledge to solve mysteries and it was good to see everyone working towards the common goal.
At the beginning of writing this review, I was to rank the read as 4 / 5…..after reading my review over and over…I have decided the read is in actuality a 5 / 5. Very well done Ms. Burke!! I will patiently await the next book in this delightful and engaging series.
*OBS would like to thank the author for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
Review:
This is the second book of the Jessica Huntington series by Anna Celeste Burke and the second book I have read by this author. If you have not read the first book, I strongly suggest you start with that book and then read this second book in the series….you won’t be disappointed! I am amazed at how the story engages me as a reader, I become so immersed that I literally do not want to put the book down. In my books (pun intended), this is a true sign of a really good book.
Jessica and the ‘Cat Pack’ are just one week off of solving Roger’s murder from The Dead Husband (the first book in the Jessica Huntington Desert Cities Mystery series) and the gang becomes quickly immersed in a cold case (15 years cold) involving the death of Jessica and Laura’s high school friend Kelly Fontana. Recently a witness came forward and indicated it was not an accident but murder. In true Jessica fashion, she rallies the Cat Pack and another adventure is born. To prove what really happened to Kelly that fateful night.
The continued development of Jessica as a recently divorced woman was really great. I enjoyed the many aspects of her! Re-igniting her career as a lawyer, taking much needed steps to work through the trauma of discovering her soon to be ex-husband with another woman in their family bed (not a spoiler as we knew about the betrayal from the first book), and just becoming comfortable with herself and the complex world she lives in (i.e. bad things do happen to rich folks too!). I enjoyed the evolution of the relationships that were beginning to develop between Jessica and two interested parties: Frank and Paul. I cannot wait to see where this will go!
In addition – I truly enjoyed the evolution of the members of the cat pack: Tommy, Jerry, Brien, Bernadette. The casino scene and Bernadette had me chuckling (another good point for the book…the chuckle factor). I obviously was a bit distracted by the story as it took me a short while to relate the ice cream (Tom and Jerry) to the cat pack couple of Tommy and Jerry…..another little chuckle. All I can say is I truly appreciate Ms. Burke’s sense of humor in her writing….clever as it is.
The bad guys were truly bad, heinous individuals. The mystery was maintained for a good long while throughout the story…another point in favor of this wonderful book. The intricacies surround what they did and for the length of time that they conducted all their “bad guy” stuff was interesting. The way the cat pack all worked on solving various components of the mystery (according to their interests and expertise) added some reality. Not one person has the skill or knowledge to solve mysteries and it was good to see everyone working towards the common goal.
At the beginning of writing this review, I was to rank the read as 4 / 5…..after reading my review over and over…I have decided the read is in actuality a 5 / 5. Very well done Ms. Burke!! I will patiently await the next book in this delightful and engaging series.
*OBS would like to thank the author for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
March 3, 2015
http://openbooksociety.com/article/a-...
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Andra
This is the second book of the Jessica Huntington series by Anna Celeste Burke and the second book I have read by this author. If you have not read the first book, I strongly suggest you start with that book and then read this second book in the series….you won’t be disappointed! I am amazed at how the story engages me as a reader, I become so immersed that I literally do not want to put the book down. In my books (pun intended), this is a true sign of a really good book.
Jessica and the ‘Cat Pack’ are just one week off of solving Roger’s murder from The Dead Husband (the first book in the Jessica Huntington Desert Cities Mystery series) and the gang becomes quickly immersed in a cold case (15 years cold) involving the death of Jessica and Laura’s high school friend Kelly Fontana. Recently a witness came forward and indicated it was not an accident but murder. In true Jessica fashion, she rallies the Cat Pack and another adventure is born. To prove what really happened to Kelly that fateful night.
The continued development of Jessica as a recently divorced woman was really great. I enjoyed the many aspects of her! Re-igniting her career as a lawyer, taking much needed steps to work through the trauma of discovering her soon to be ex-husband with another woman in their family bed (not a spoiler as we knew about the betrayal from the first book), and just becoming comfortable with herself and the complex world she lives in (i.e. bad things do happen to rich folks too!). I enjoyed the evolution of the relationships that were beginning to develop between Jessica and two interested parties: Frank and Paul. I cannot wait to see where this will go!
In addition – I truly enjoyed the evolution of the members of the cat pack: Tommy, Jerry, Brien, Bernadette. The casino scene and Bernadette had me chuckling (another good point for the book…the chuckle factor). I obviously was a bit distracted by the story as it took me a short while to relate the ice cream (Tom and Jerry) to the cat pack couple of Tommy and Jerry…..another little chuckle. All I can say is I truly appreciate Ms. Burke’s sense of humor in her writing….clever as it is.
The bad guys were truly bad, heinous individuals. The mystery was maintained for a good long while throughout the story…another point in favor of this wonderful book. The intricacies surround what they did and for the length of time that they conducted all their “bad guy” stuff was interesting. The way the cat pack all worked on solving various components of the mystery (according to their interests and expertise) added some reality. Not one person has the skill or knowledge to solve mysteries and it was good to see everyone working towards the common goal.
At the beginning of writing this review, I was to rank the read as 4 / 5…..after reading my review over and over…I have decided the read is in actuality a 5 / 5. Very well done Ms. Burke!! I will patiently await the next book in this delightful and engaging series.
*OBS would like to thank the author for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Andra
This is the second book of the Jessica Huntington series by Anna Celeste Burke and the second book I have read by this author. If you have not read the first book, I strongly suggest you start with that book and then read this second book in the series….you won’t be disappointed! I am amazed at how the story engages me as a reader, I become so immersed that I literally do not want to put the book down. In my books (pun intended), this is a true sign of a really good book.
Jessica and the ‘Cat Pack’ are just one week off of solving Roger’s murder from The Dead Husband (the first book in the Jessica Huntington Desert Cities Mystery series) and the gang becomes quickly immersed in a cold case (15 years cold) involving the death of Jessica and Laura’s high school friend Kelly Fontana. Recently a witness came forward and indicated it was not an accident but murder. In true Jessica fashion, she rallies the Cat Pack and another adventure is born. To prove what really happened to Kelly that fateful night.
The continued development of Jessica as a recently divorced woman was really great. I enjoyed the many aspects of her! Re-igniting her career as a lawyer, taking much needed steps to work through the trauma of discovering her soon to be ex-husband with another woman in their family bed (not a spoiler as we knew about the betrayal from the first book), and just becoming comfortable with herself and the complex world she lives in (i.e. bad things do happen to rich folks too!). I enjoyed the evolution of the relationships that were beginning to develop between Jessica and two interested parties: Frank and Paul. I cannot wait to see where this will go!
In addition – I truly enjoyed the evolution of the members of the cat pack: Tommy, Jerry, Brien, Bernadette. The casino scene and Bernadette had me chuckling (another good point for the book…the chuckle factor). I obviously was a bit distracted by the story as it took me a short while to relate the ice cream (Tom and Jerry) to the cat pack couple of Tommy and Jerry…..another little chuckle. All I can say is I truly appreciate Ms. Burke’s sense of humor in her writing….clever as it is.
The bad guys were truly bad, heinous individuals. The mystery was maintained for a good long while throughout the story…another point in favor of this wonderful book. The intricacies surround what they did and for the length of time that they conducted all their “bad guy” stuff was interesting. The way the cat pack all worked on solving various components of the mystery (according to their interests and expertise) added some reality. Not one person has the skill or knowledge to solve mysteries and it was good to see everyone working towards the common goal.
At the beginning of writing this review, I was to rank the read as 4 / 5…..after reading my review over and over…I have decided the read is in actuality a 5 / 5. Very well done Ms. Burke!! I will patiently await the next book in this delightful and engaging series.
*OBS would like to thank the author for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
July 11, 2017
A Dead Sister is the second book in Anna Celeste Burke’s Jessica Huntington Desert Cities Mystery Series. Ms. Burke’s writing style flows smoothly at a calm and steady pace and the storyline is well plotted with the three dimensional characters, humor, and some suspenseful moments. Ms. Burke’s books not only have interesting mysteries to solve but they allow the reader to get to know the characters. I recommend this book to readers who enjoy reading a well-crafted cozy mystery.
Jessica Huntington is not pleased when her soon to be ex-husband shows up at her door and he’s brought a copy of the divorce papers she hasn’t signed off yet and wants her to sign them so he can marry the woman he cheated on Jessica with who is pregnant. Jessica is a wealthy woman who is caring and generous she treated everyone to an escape after the trauma of solving the mystery surrounding the murder of her Roger Stone, her friend, Laura’s husband. The guys decided to go to the North Shore of Oahu so Brien could take the surf safari he dreamed about, the gals stayed at the Grand Wailea in Maui and spend their days getting spa treatments and going on shopping sprees, and Laura’s sister and her family went on a Disney cruise. Jessica is surprised when she receives a call from Frank Fontana asking if she will meet with him to talk about his cousin and Jessica’s high school friend, Kelly Fontana, who died over a decade ago when she was only 19 years old when she was the victim of a hit and run in a parking lot. The call brings up troubling memories of her friendship with Kelly. Seems a drug addicted criminal, Chester Davis, claims to have information that Kelly was murdered and he wants to make a deal to have the charges currently pending against him reduced. Frank is seeking Jessica’s advice on opening up his cousin’s case and asking her to talk to officials and interview Chester. Frank and Jessica decided for her to start her investigation without informing Kelly’s parents and brother because they wanted to protect them from having to relive the tragic event if the “tip” didn’t pan out. While Jessica feels she needs to take a year to adjust to her divorce and get her life together, there is a mutual attraction between her and Paul Worthington and Frank Fontana.
Jessica Huntington is not pleased when her soon to be ex-husband shows up at her door and he’s brought a copy of the divorce papers she hasn’t signed off yet and wants her to sign them so he can marry the woman he cheated on Jessica with who is pregnant. Jessica is a wealthy woman who is caring and generous she treated everyone to an escape after the trauma of solving the mystery surrounding the murder of her Roger Stone, her friend, Laura’s husband. The guys decided to go to the North Shore of Oahu so Brien could take the surf safari he dreamed about, the gals stayed at the Grand Wailea in Maui and spend their days getting spa treatments and going on shopping sprees, and Laura’s sister and her family went on a Disney cruise. Jessica is surprised when she receives a call from Frank Fontana asking if she will meet with him to talk about his cousin and Jessica’s high school friend, Kelly Fontana, who died over a decade ago when she was only 19 years old when she was the victim of a hit and run in a parking lot. The call brings up troubling memories of her friendship with Kelly. Seems a drug addicted criminal, Chester Davis, claims to have information that Kelly was murdered and he wants to make a deal to have the charges currently pending against him reduced. Frank is seeking Jessica’s advice on opening up his cousin’s case and asking her to talk to officials and interview Chester. Frank and Jessica decided for her to start her investigation without informing Kelly’s parents and brother because they wanted to protect them from having to relive the tragic event if the “tip” didn’t pan out. While Jessica feels she needs to take a year to adjust to her divorce and get her life together, there is a mutual attraction between her and Paul Worthington and Frank Fontana.
February 1, 2019
All of Anna Celeste Burke books seem to be be available on kindle unlimited, although think at first came across her in one of the Happy Homicides anthologies she is in. Also after reading a freebie or something as well, went and bought every book out, pre-ordered #4 out now and have pre-ordered #5 now.There are blurbs at the start of every book if you want to know about characters, plots and all that. My rating is 5 and 5, everthing else is rather up to the personal tastes of each reader. Below is a list of her series, with titles, in order. Try them on ku or buy them in sets or individually as I did; ku is nice, but keeping certain books forever is better. Dates may be bit off, been reading thru the sets for couple of days just now getting to reviews. - This story comes after 0 and 1, and this time she just wishes it was her husband that had died the last time. The blast from the past is a very cold killer wind.
Georgie Shaw Cozy Mystery Series
Murder at Catmmando Mountain #1 Love Notes in the Key of Sea #2 All Hallows' Eve Heist #3 A Merry Christmas Wedding Mystery
Georgie Shaw Cozy Mystery Series: Novellas 1-3
#4 Murder at Sea of Passenger X #5 Murder of the Maestro #6 A Tango Before Dying #7 A Canary in the Canal #8 {2019}*
Jessica Huntington Desert Cities Mystery
.5 Love a Foot Above the Ground A Dead Husband 1 A Dead Sister 2 A Dead Daughter 3 A Dead Mother 4 A Dead Cousin 5
Jessica Huntington Desert Cities Mystery Series (Books 1-5)
A Dead Nephew 6 {2019}*
Corsario Cove Cozy Mystery
Cowabunga Christmas #1 Gnarly New Year #2
Heinous Habits (Corsario Cove Cozy Mystery, #3) {in summer collection only first}
Radical Regatta Corsario Cove Cozy Mystery #4 {2019}*
Seaview Cottages Cozy Mystery
A Body at Fitzgerald’s Bluff 1 {was in Summer Snoops and Cozy Crimes: 12 Mysteries for the Dog Days of Summer which between typos and WTH stuff actually cancelled, just waited for this separately}
The Murder of Shakespeare's Ghost 2 {out March 2019}*
Grave Expectations on Dickens' #3 {2019}*
The CALLA LILY MYSTERY Series
Lily's Homecoming Under Fire #1
{was only in collection Love Under Fire collection, now standalone}
Tangled Vines, Buried Secrets #2 {2019}*
see goodreads/amazon for full listing of books, in various collections
Georgie Shaw Cozy Mystery Series
Murder at Catmmando Mountain #1 Love Notes in the Key of Sea #2 All Hallows' Eve Heist #3 A Merry Christmas Wedding Mystery
Georgie Shaw Cozy Mystery Series: Novellas 1-3
#4 Murder at Sea of Passenger X #5 Murder of the Maestro #6 A Tango Before Dying #7 A Canary in the Canal #8 {2019}*
Jessica Huntington Desert Cities Mystery
.5 Love a Foot Above the Ground A Dead Husband 1 A Dead Sister 2 A Dead Daughter 3 A Dead Mother 4 A Dead Cousin 5
Jessica Huntington Desert Cities Mystery Series (Books 1-5)
A Dead Nephew 6 {2019}*
Corsario Cove Cozy Mystery
Cowabunga Christmas #1 Gnarly New Year #2
Heinous Habits (Corsario Cove Cozy Mystery, #3) {in summer collection only first}
Radical Regatta Corsario Cove Cozy Mystery #4 {2019}*
Seaview Cottages Cozy Mystery
A Body at Fitzgerald’s Bluff 1 {was in Summer Snoops and Cozy Crimes: 12 Mysteries for the Dog Days of Summer which between typos and WTH stuff actually cancelled, just waited for this separately}
The Murder of Shakespeare's Ghost 2 {out March 2019}*
Grave Expectations on Dickens' #3 {2019}*
The CALLA LILY MYSTERY Series
Lily's Homecoming Under Fire #1
{was only in collection Love Under Fire collection, now standalone}
Tangled Vines, Buried Secrets #2 {2019}*
see goodreads/amazon for full listing of books, in various collections
July 20, 2014
A DEAD SISTER (Jessica Huntington Desert Cities Mystery #2) by Anna Celeste Burke is a must read with lots of action.
Jessica and her “cat pack” return to solve another case involving their friend, Kelly Fontana who was killed in a car accident fifteen years ago. After recovering from her last adventure solving the murder of Laura’s dead husband Roger, she is trying to start her law career started again. When she gets a call that things are not what they seem, when an eye witness comes forward with new information. Jessica and her “cat pack” friends return in this, the second Jessica Huntington Desert Cities Mystery. All the “cat pack” are great friends and would do anything for each other.
Jessica's best friend, Kelly Fontana, was killed soon after graduating from high school over ten years ago. Because she was the victim of a hit-and-run accident in a hotel parking lot in Palm Springs, the investigation into her death quickly grew cold. Now more than a decade later a lowlife meth addict claims to have witnessed her death and swears: "It weren't no accident! It was on purpose."
Jessica is a strong woman and along with her friends she tries to right a wrong that was committed to her friend. Using her skills as a lawyer and her friends along with the help of some detectives they uncover a darker side to her friend. Also, those people responsible for her death are still at large.
I think this book is even better than the first one in the series; although it is a darker read, I found it a great read. Looking forward to reading the next one in the series.
Jessica and her “cat pack” return to solve another case involving their friend, Kelly Fontana who was killed in a car accident fifteen years ago. After recovering from her last adventure solving the murder of Laura’s dead husband Roger, she is trying to start her law career started again. When she gets a call that things are not what they seem, when an eye witness comes forward with new information. Jessica and her “cat pack” friends return in this, the second Jessica Huntington Desert Cities Mystery. All the “cat pack” are great friends and would do anything for each other.
Jessica's best friend, Kelly Fontana, was killed soon after graduating from high school over ten years ago. Because she was the victim of a hit-and-run accident in a hotel parking lot in Palm Springs, the investigation into her death quickly grew cold. Now more than a decade later a lowlife meth addict claims to have witnessed her death and swears: "It weren't no accident! It was on purpose."
Jessica is a strong woman and along with her friends she tries to right a wrong that was committed to her friend. Using her skills as a lawyer and her friends along with the help of some detectives they uncover a darker side to her friend. Also, those people responsible for her death are still at large.
I think this book is even better than the first one in the series; although it is a darker read, I found it a great read. Looking forward to reading the next one in the series.
February 2, 2016
A Dead Sister (Jessica Huntington Desert Cities Mystery Book 2) is every bit as good as A Dead Husband. Jessica Huntington with no more hyphen as she keeps reminding everyone is really still angry and upset about her no good ex and the younger woman he took up with. She promises herself one year before she will even think of dating again. Uh Huh--- Plus she is still hurting from the beating she got from her last sleuthing job. When her sometimes best friend's cousin shows up and asks for her help--did I mention the best friend was possibly murdered many years ago--how can she say no. The last time she saw this friend they had a major fight. And she may also take a job and actually use her law degree. Shopaholic--yup--she is still at it!! That Black American Express Card--well lets just say thank heavens she is a trust fund baby--because she not only spends on herself--but on all her friends as well (and now it is all on her). Bernadette, who is more of a mother then a housekeeper is still one of my favorite character's!!
You really should read this series in order as it references back--but it is not totally necessary. I went and bought Book#3 already--that should tell you how much I enjoy this series. This one is non stop action and will keep you guessing and laughing at parts.
A Dead Sister
You really should read this series in order as it references back--but it is not totally necessary. I went and bought Book#3 already--that should tell you how much I enjoy this series. This one is non stop action and will keep you guessing and laughing at parts.
A Dead Sister
February 23, 2016
A Dead Sister is the second book of the series and the second that I have read, while both books are excellent this one is more emotional and has less humor and I think is a little stronger. Ms Burke spends some time allowing us to get to know Jessica and her background which will a little slow helped me connect with her. She is extremely wealthy and every comfortable with that wealth. I do not identify well with the kind of life she leads so the extra time was worthwhile. The character interaction is awesome. I love the "cat pack"!
Her best friend in high school was killed in what had been declared a hit and run accident 15 years earlier; now there are indications that Kelly's death might have been murder. Jessica can not imagine what in the life of that volatile nineteen year old could have led to her murder. Although Jessica's experience as an environmental lawyer has not prepared her for investigating crime, she and a group of friends feel compelled to looking into her late friends life.
I received a gift card to purchase one of Anna Celeste Burke's books during a Facebook release party in exchange for an honest review. Since I had recently read A Dead Husband, I chose ADead Sister and greatly enjoyed both.
Her best friend in high school was killed in what had been declared a hit and run accident 15 years earlier; now there are indications that Kelly's death might have been murder. Jessica can not imagine what in the life of that volatile nineteen year old could have led to her murder. Although Jessica's experience as an environmental lawyer has not prepared her for investigating crime, she and a group of friends feel compelled to looking into her late friends life.
I received a gift card to purchase one of Anna Celeste Burke's books during a Facebook release party in exchange for an honest review. Since I had recently read A Dead Husband, I chose ADead Sister and greatly enjoyed both.
August 15, 2016
"Sometimes, asking the right question is the most important part of getting the right answer, you know?"
Jessica Huntington is getting her life back. Still recovering from the successful conclusion to her last adventure, she runs headlong into her past as an old cold case resurfaces with her late best friend, (and Tommy's sister) as its focus. In typical Jessica fashion, she and the "cat pack" begin a painful journey into the world few of us choose to see. All while dealing with her soon-to-be ex husband and all the drama around that situation, and accepting a job with a high end law firm.
In true fashion, we see Jessica's past and present affecting her future as she gains the grudging respect of some, the pure hatred of others, and deals with her own emotional life as she figures out what really happened, and what the future holds.
Anna Celeste Burke is an author to be as savored much like the good life her characters live. Jessica is developing into a woman I'd love to have in my life. Long may she wave!
Jessica Huntington is getting her life back. Still recovering from the successful conclusion to her last adventure, she runs headlong into her past as an old cold case resurfaces with her late best friend, (and Tommy's sister) as its focus. In typical Jessica fashion, she and the "cat pack" begin a painful journey into the world few of us choose to see. All while dealing with her soon-to-be ex husband and all the drama around that situation, and accepting a job with a high end law firm.
In true fashion, we see Jessica's past and present affecting her future as she gains the grudging respect of some, the pure hatred of others, and deals with her own emotional life as she figures out what really happened, and what the future holds.
Anna Celeste Burke is an author to be as savored much like the good life her characters live. Jessica is developing into a woman I'd love to have in my life. Long may she wave!
January 23, 2015
Kelly has been abducted and force-fed drugs. She escapes but is knocked down by a car. Years after her friend Kelly's death, Jessica, reeling from a failed marriage, is undergoing a crisis of confidence and doubt as to the purpose of life. News is brought to her implying Kelly's death was no accident... So begins another exciting, witty Jessica Huntington Desert Cities Mystery. Jessica and her friends set out on a mission to bring the guilty party to justice. This well-sculpted story is full of character detail, and effortlessly links together its threads into an impressively coherent whole: a murder mystery set within a framework of inter-connected characters and episodes, with plenty of love interest. Anna Burke has created a viable world into which the reader is brilliantly drawn, and loses himself/herself in an exciting mix of richly-drawn lives, suspense, romance and beguiling mystery. Another tour-de-force.
August 3, 2015
Anna Burke's enjoyable series continues in this second installment, developing on A Dead Husband's suspense and giving Jessica Huntington a new case to solve--this time, the murder of an old friend. Burke's setting is compelling, a spot-on representation of the collision between the seedy criminal world and the opulent lives of the rich, brilliantly described in the environment of California's desert cities. Jessica is an interesting and complex character, born to a comfortable, privileged life but tough and assertive in her own way. Jessica grows in this book, into a character capable of generosity and kindness despite the life she has lived, touched with tragedy. Burke has showed her series to be one of real depth and interest, not just a suspenseful page-turner but also a satisfying mystery with a rewarding and memorable cast of characters. I'm looking forward to hearing more from Burke and Jessica.
July 12, 2017
"A Dead Sister" was another enjoyable Jessica Huntington tale. Jessica is back to shopping sprees and getting in over her head in solving a cold-case murder. There was plenty of action on the story, but it took a little while to get to that point. In the beginning the information Jessica discovered about her childhood friend, Kelly, had to be conveyed to various people in different scenes. I felt myself wanting to skim over information the author had already provided. Once past that, however, the story picked up and became more intriguing. There are a number of places, too, that much background information is given in large doses. This would be easier to digest if given in context to the story, rather than merely to develop the characters. But, in all, the story was entertaining, and I'm looking forward to the next book later this year.
November 11, 2016
A Dead Sister, by Anna Celeste Burke, is the second installment of her Jessica Huntington series. As Jessica returns to practicing law again, the cold case of her friend, Kelly Fontana receives new information. The case was deemed to be a hit and run accident in a Palm Springs hotel parking lot. Now, a decade later, an unsavory meth addict claims that he witnessed Kelly's death and it was definitely a murder! Jessica quickly assembles her "cat pack" and their investigation begins. Just as in A Dead Husband (book 1), Jessica takes chances and soon has a target on her back. While this book is more serious than the first book, it still has the same motley crew of characters, plus a few new faces. As this installment comes to an end, it leaves you wondering what Jessica will face next!
February 3, 2018
Another good book
I love this series! One thing I enjoy about Anna Celeste Byrne's books is the vocabulary! I actually find myself looking up words that are new to me! I enjoy learning new words. It keeps the books interesting! Her books also take on many twists and turns. I did find myself bogged down a little now and then in A Dead Sister. It didn't take away from it though, I kept moving on. Keep up the great works!
I love this series! One thing I enjoy about Anna Celeste Byrne's books is the vocabulary! I actually find myself looking up words that are new to me! I enjoy learning new words. It keeps the books interesting! Her books also take on many twists and turns. I did find myself bogged down a little now and then in A Dead Sister. It didn't take away from it though, I kept moving on. Keep up the great works!
February 6, 2018
Excellent series. Highly recommend!
July 10, 2015
This is the first Anna Burke book I have read , and it won't be the last. I was kept entertained and intigued from the very first chapter.
It's the type f book that lifts you from your own surroundings and transports you into another world of fun and interesting characters. A Dead Sister is well written, very descriptive - which you either love or hate - but I found it necessary because you get to see the whole charaters, warts and all.
It is easily for the reader to envision themselves as part of the cat pack. Anna Burke doesn't leave us short regarding the plot, with some twists. Jessica, the main character is all woman, and a strong one. She has her flaws like the rest of us but that only adds to her being believable. An enjoyable humorous read.
It's the type f book that lifts you from your own surroundings and transports you into another world of fun and interesting characters. A Dead Sister is well written, very descriptive - which you either love or hate - but I found it necessary because you get to see the whole charaters, warts and all.
It is easily for the reader to envision themselves as part of the cat pack. Anna Burke doesn't leave us short regarding the plot, with some twists. Jessica, the main character is all woman, and a strong one. She has her flaws like the rest of us but that only adds to her being believable. An enjoyable humorous read.
July 24, 2014
I prefer to read a mystery series from the beginning. I enjoy getting to know the characters and following their lives in subsequent books. "A Dead Sister" by Anna Burke is the sequel to "A Dead Husband," the first in the Jessica Huntington Desert Cities mystery series and I highly recommend it.
True to the old saying, "Money can't buy happiness," wealthy Jessica Huntington struggles with several personal issues, including the abrupt end to her marriage, and she is, once again, thrown into the middle of solving the murder of someone close to her.
True to the old saying, "Money can't buy happiness," wealthy Jessica Huntington struggles with several personal issues, including the abrupt end to her marriage, and she is, once again, thrown into the middle of solving the murder of someone close to her.
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