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The Murder Mystery Series #1
The Girl in White Pajamas
Bogie McGruder returns to Boston after his brother, a cop, is gunned down on the street. Since the Boston police are investigating the death of one of their own, Bogie believes his trip will be a short condolence visit and a chance to meet his secret love child.
Although Bogie wants to contact his ex-lover, Bailey Hampfield, he’s reluctant to do so since Bailey dumped him four years earlier. Knowing that Bailey had his child after she cut him loose, Bogie thinks it’s time to establish a relationship with the three year old daughter he’s never met. While he considers his options, Bailey gets in touch with him and asks for protection. Someone is trying to kill her.
Bogie doesn’t want to get involved in the BPD investigation into his brother’s death, but he continues to be drawn into it while trying to discover who is attempting to kill Bailey Hampfield. The investigations seem to parallel each other, then intersect and become intertwined. As the story develops, Isabella, a precocious child obsessed with martial arts, slowly becomes the focus.
The underlying theme of this fast-paced mystery is lies. Everyone seems to be runing on lies and half truths. The only true character is The Girl in White Pajamas.
Although Bogie wants to contact his ex-lover, Bailey Hampfield, he’s reluctant to do so since Bailey dumped him four years earlier. Knowing that Bailey had his child after she cut him loose, Bogie thinks it’s time to establish a relationship with the three year old daughter he’s never met. While he considers his options, Bailey gets in touch with him and asks for protection. Someone is trying to kill her.
Bogie doesn’t want to get involved in the BPD investigation into his brother’s death, but he continues to be drawn into it while trying to discover who is attempting to kill Bailey Hampfield. The investigations seem to parallel each other, then intersect and become intertwined. As the story develops, Isabella, a precocious child obsessed with martial arts, slowly becomes the focus.
The underlying theme of this fast-paced mystery is lies. Everyone seems to be runing on lies and half truths. The only true character is The Girl in White Pajamas.
427 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 22, 2013
36 people are currently reading
542 people want to read
About the author
Chris Birdy
4 books335 followersChris Birdy is an award-winning author. She was born and raised in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. After graduating from high school, she did a four year stint in the Middle East. When she returned to the States, Chris settled down in the Boston area and became a true Bostonian by collecting college degrees while raising a family.
For more than twenty years, Chris has been a member of the legal community performing investigative work for Boston law firms.
Chris lives outside of Boston and in Palm Beach, Florida with her husband
For more than twenty years, Chris has been a member of the legal community performing investigative work for Boston law firms.
Chris lives outside of Boston and in Palm Beach, Florida with her husband
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
August 5, 2014
The Girl in the White Pajamas by Chris Birdy is a 2014 publication. I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
If you like the Lisa Lutz style mystery novel you will like this one. Set in both Boston and Florida the story tells the sordid history of a wealthy family that married into blue collar. Both sides were a little morally bankrupt. We have Bud, who has just been murdered. Then , Bud's brother, Bogie, travels from Florida to Boston to be with his sister, Ann. Along for the ride is Bogie's 18 year old daughter, Amanda who is also pregnant with an on and off engagement, and who is rapidly spiraling out of control.
Back in Boston, Bogie is reunited with the love of his life, Bailey. He and Bailey have had an on again, off again relationship for many years, and it's no secret Bailey has a child by Bogie, named Isabella. Bailey neglected to inform Bogie he was father, although he already knew about it. Bailey appears to be in a jam, Amanda hates Bailey, but loves her little sister, and now that there has been a murder, Bogie will have to get to the bottom of things.
Isabella is a show stealer. A cute three year child with a really high intelligence level, she sees and knows a lot more than people give her credit for. While the death of Bud has opened up a can of worms, the family will have few more skeletons fall out of the closet. The family matriarch, Elizabeth is losing her mind with dementia , and is hardly aware of the goings on.
This novel is one part family drama, one part mystery. I think this first book, in what appears to be a possible series, was an ambitious undertaking. While there were not many characters in the book, save Isabella, that were very likeable, for some reason I found myself unable to stop reading about this train wreck of a family. So, if you like a story that is more about the characters and their personal issues with just a bit of crime solving in the background you will enjoy this one. That isn't to say this is not a crime drama, because it is. But, the family and it's secrets are very much the focus of the story. Things that occurred in the past have had devastating effects on some people and they live with the lies, betrayals, greed, and lust that shaped the them for better or worse. Amanda is a character that just drove me nuts. I almost cringed when she appeared on the scene. I am terrified by the thought this girl is about to become a parent!!!!
Now, because this has caused me issues in the past, I am going say this- with CreateSpace listed as the publication, I am ASSUMMING this is a self- publication or Indie. Having said that, the book is just too long. An editor would do wonders here, not because of grammatical errors or typos, but to trim the book down just a little. Zany and odd duck characters work better in small spurts. If it goes on too long, it starts to lose it's charm. This nearly happened to me a few times with certain situations and characters. Bailey got on my nerves, Bogie sometimes needed a wake up call, especially since his actions in the past brought on a lot of what was happening in the future, and I never got the idea he had a lot of regrets or suffered from a pricked conscience. He was too busy thinking about himself to be a good father to his daughter, Amanda, and now he is a parent of a precocious three year old that deserves better. But, when Bogie had a health scare he did grow up just a tad, and now it is possible he might step up to the plate and be the parent Isabella needs. This saga will continue, in “The Girl with the Black Pajamas” which will be released in next couple of months.
I didn't Love this book but I did like it enough to sign on for second book and to give this one a 3.5 rounded to 4.
If you like the Lisa Lutz style mystery novel you will like this one. Set in both Boston and Florida the story tells the sordid history of a wealthy family that married into blue collar. Both sides were a little morally bankrupt. We have Bud, who has just been murdered. Then , Bud's brother, Bogie, travels from Florida to Boston to be with his sister, Ann. Along for the ride is Bogie's 18 year old daughter, Amanda who is also pregnant with an on and off engagement, and who is rapidly spiraling out of control.
Back in Boston, Bogie is reunited with the love of his life, Bailey. He and Bailey have had an on again, off again relationship for many years, and it's no secret Bailey has a child by Bogie, named Isabella. Bailey neglected to inform Bogie he was father, although he already knew about it. Bailey appears to be in a jam, Amanda hates Bailey, but loves her little sister, and now that there has been a murder, Bogie will have to get to the bottom of things.
Isabella is a show stealer. A cute three year child with a really high intelligence level, she sees and knows a lot more than people give her credit for. While the death of Bud has opened up a can of worms, the family will have few more skeletons fall out of the closet. The family matriarch, Elizabeth is losing her mind with dementia , and is hardly aware of the goings on.
This novel is one part family drama, one part mystery. I think this first book, in what appears to be a possible series, was an ambitious undertaking. While there were not many characters in the book, save Isabella, that were very likeable, for some reason I found myself unable to stop reading about this train wreck of a family. So, if you like a story that is more about the characters and their personal issues with just a bit of crime solving in the background you will enjoy this one. That isn't to say this is not a crime drama, because it is. But, the family and it's secrets are very much the focus of the story. Things that occurred in the past have had devastating effects on some people and they live with the lies, betrayals, greed, and lust that shaped the them for better or worse. Amanda is a character that just drove me nuts. I almost cringed when she appeared on the scene. I am terrified by the thought this girl is about to become a parent!!!!
Now, because this has caused me issues in the past, I am going say this- with CreateSpace listed as the publication, I am ASSUMMING this is a self- publication or Indie. Having said that, the book is just too long. An editor would do wonders here, not because of grammatical errors or typos, but to trim the book down just a little. Zany and odd duck characters work better in small spurts. If it goes on too long, it starts to lose it's charm. This nearly happened to me a few times with certain situations and characters. Bailey got on my nerves, Bogie sometimes needed a wake up call, especially since his actions in the past brought on a lot of what was happening in the future, and I never got the idea he had a lot of regrets or suffered from a pricked conscience. He was too busy thinking about himself to be a good father to his daughter, Amanda, and now he is a parent of a precocious three year old that deserves better. But, when Bogie had a health scare he did grow up just a tad, and now it is possible he might step up to the plate and be the parent Isabella needs. This saga will continue, in “The Girl with the Black Pajamas” which will be released in next couple of months.
I didn't Love this book but I did like it enough to sign on for second book and to give this one a 3.5 rounded to 4.
May 7, 2015
The Girl In The White Pajamas is the literary equivalent of comfort food. It hooked me in from the opening page and, after the stresses and strains of everyday life, I found myself looking forward to the time spent with my kindle getting my nightly fix. It’s the kind of book that demands nothing of you but delivers entertainment and escapism in spades.
The novel starts with a fatal shooting which weaves a web of mystery that becomes increasingly complex and keeps us guessing until the very end. The murder forces Bogie McGruder to leave his new home in Florida and return to Boston, where he has to deal with his estranged family and an ex-lover. At the same time he is forging a relationship with a three year old daughter who he gets to meet for the first time. All of the characters are somehow linked to the murder of a man, who turns out to be a cop and Bogie’s half brother. It becomes a race against time for Bogie and his colleagues at R&B Investigations to try and unravel the mystery.
As gripping as the plot is, for me it’s the characters who make the novel so readable. Bogie has survived a horrendous childhood at the hands of a father and step mother who didn’t want him but despite this he is a kind person and a loving father. Bogie’s strength is that he cares about people and consequently is able to create a sense of family wherever he goes. He even takes care of the step mother who made his life hell as she succumbs to dementia and falls on hard times.
Chris Birdy also offers us a fabulous cast of likeable, strong female characters, ranging from the delightfully precocious three year old Isabella to Bogie’s designer clad, no-nonsense partner Rose. Bogie’s relationship with Bailey, the mother of his child is as complex as she is. An unsuccessful lawyer, drowning in debt, Bailey’s sense of helplessness in the face of her predicament is conveyed effectively by Birdy and elicits much sympathy.
The Girl In The White Pajamas is the first in the Pajama series and my only slight issue with it is that it read a lot like a sequel. So much so that I did in fact check that I was reading the right book. It in no way impeded my enjoyment of the novel but, at times I felt as if I was being plunged headlong into a story and relationships that had already been developed as there is very little background given.
What Birdy does give us though is a very satisfying read with characters that are easy to engage with and like. If you’re looking for a novel to take you away from what’s going on in the real world for a while then I think this is the book for you. I am very much looking forward to reading the next story in the series and catching up with Bogie and his ‘family’.
The novel starts with a fatal shooting which weaves a web of mystery that becomes increasingly complex and keeps us guessing until the very end. The murder forces Bogie McGruder to leave his new home in Florida and return to Boston, where he has to deal with his estranged family and an ex-lover. At the same time he is forging a relationship with a three year old daughter who he gets to meet for the first time. All of the characters are somehow linked to the murder of a man, who turns out to be a cop and Bogie’s half brother. It becomes a race against time for Bogie and his colleagues at R&B Investigations to try and unravel the mystery.
As gripping as the plot is, for me it’s the characters who make the novel so readable. Bogie has survived a horrendous childhood at the hands of a father and step mother who didn’t want him but despite this he is a kind person and a loving father. Bogie’s strength is that he cares about people and consequently is able to create a sense of family wherever he goes. He even takes care of the step mother who made his life hell as she succumbs to dementia and falls on hard times.
Chris Birdy also offers us a fabulous cast of likeable, strong female characters, ranging from the delightfully precocious three year old Isabella to Bogie’s designer clad, no-nonsense partner Rose. Bogie’s relationship with Bailey, the mother of his child is as complex as she is. An unsuccessful lawyer, drowning in debt, Bailey’s sense of helplessness in the face of her predicament is conveyed effectively by Birdy and elicits much sympathy.
The Girl In The White Pajamas is the first in the Pajama series and my only slight issue with it is that it read a lot like a sequel. So much so that I did in fact check that I was reading the right book. It in no way impeded my enjoyment of the novel but, at times I felt as if I was being plunged headlong into a story and relationships that had already been developed as there is very little background given.
What Birdy does give us though is a very satisfying read with characters that are easy to engage with and like. If you’re looking for a novel to take you away from what’s going on in the real world for a while then I think this is the book for you. I am very much looking forward to reading the next story in the series and catching up with Bogie and his ‘family’.
March 24, 2015
The Girl in White Pajamas got my attention from the start. The scene a blistery cold night in Boston, a man in a parked car without the heat on, and a lady walking out of an office building. The man exits his car when he sees the woman leave the building and walks up to her. Few words are exchanged before he is shot in the head. The next chapter the reader is introduced to Bogie MacGruder who grew up with his illegitimate father in a house that offered him little love. His half siblings can barely function on their own and his father’s wife hates him. The MacGruder family is beyond dysfunctional. Bogie has a 3 year old precocious daughter, Izzy, which he meets for the first time. She is sure to win over reader’s hearts as she becomes the hit of the book.
The story focuses on introducing the reader to the family along with all their history. Towards the end the small clues Birdy drops throughout the novel come together and the mystery is solved. The ending leaves new doors opened for the sequel, already on my book shelf!
The author does a remarkable job bringing each character to life forcing me to love, loathe, and like them. The story is believable and far-fetched at the same time giving it a taste of humor. As a visual reader the story plays like a movie and the action doesn’t stop until the last page is turned.
Interesting and suspenseful!
The story focuses on introducing the reader to the family along with all their history. Towards the end the small clues Birdy drops throughout the novel come together and the mystery is solved. The ending leaves new doors opened for the sequel, already on my book shelf!
The author does a remarkable job bringing each character to life forcing me to love, loathe, and like them. The story is believable and far-fetched at the same time giving it a taste of humor. As a visual reader the story plays like a movie and the action doesn’t stop until the last page is turned.
Interesting and suspenseful!
December 14, 2015
A murder mystery with excellent twists and turns, the characters and situations along with the relationships are very descriptive and superbly explained.
The novel is a little bit difficult to follow at first and the way the author manipulates the reader to keep going and persist by creating a little bit of mystique turns the novel into a great read.
The story brings our hero in contact with his past lover when he has to investigate his brothers murder this also bring him into contact with his family and a brilliant ride of emotion and feelings that you can relate to in your life.
The excellent emotive writing of the novelist is first rate. The brilliant building up of the detective and meeting his young daughter for the first time and the way that the relationship develops will bring tears to your eyes.
The read is fast paced and a real page turner with excellent situations and predicaments which add excitement to the story.
The main point that I enjoyed about this novel was the intensity and the really descriptive style of writing. The excellent humanisation of all the characters helped make the plot come to life.
If you like a good solid murder mystery with an excellent plot and characters then this is a book for you and I hope any other novels by this author are just as good or even better.
The novel is a little bit difficult to follow at first and the way the author manipulates the reader to keep going and persist by creating a little bit of mystique turns the novel into a great read.
The story brings our hero in contact with his past lover when he has to investigate his brothers murder this also bring him into contact with his family and a brilliant ride of emotion and feelings that you can relate to in your life.
The excellent emotive writing of the novelist is first rate. The brilliant building up of the detective and meeting his young daughter for the first time and the way that the relationship develops will bring tears to your eyes.
The read is fast paced and a real page turner with excellent situations and predicaments which add excitement to the story.
The main point that I enjoyed about this novel was the intensity and the really descriptive style of writing. The excellent humanisation of all the characters helped make the plot come to life.
If you like a good solid murder mystery with an excellent plot and characters then this is a book for you and I hope any other novels by this author are just as good or even better.
July 29, 2013
The Girl in White Pajamas by Chris Birdy sounded like an interesting tale. In some ways it was, but overall, I wasn't impressed.
What a convoluted and dysfunctional family! I found it hard to sympathize much with any of them.
After the murder of his step-brother, Bogie McGruder returns to Boston for the funeral. Not that Bogie liked Bud or that he cares for his stepmother at all, but Bogie does have a sense of family, no matter how unpleasant.
He meets his own three-year-old daughter for the first time and is captivated by her. The girl's mother and his former lover is in danger, and despite the woman's having kept the secret of his daughter from him, Bogie is on the case.
NetGalley/Publish Green
Mystery/Crime. 2013. Print version: 426 pages.
ISBN-10: 1481871986
August 1, 2014
This is a beautiful book that is suspense. Once you start reading it, you cannot put it down. You will adore Isabella and that red hair. The book has surprise twist and turn which I love. I highly recommend this to every book lover that loves suspense.
September 4, 2014
Bogie McGruder thinks he has finally gotten his life (and health) straightened out now that he lives in Palm Beach. He left behind a morally bankrupt, dysfunctional, blended family, as well as, a young daughter he has never met (because of an equally dysfunctional love affair), back in Boston. Then he finds out that his teenage daughter is pregnant and wants to drop out of high school to marry the father. All this is nothing compared to the tangled mess he finds when he travels back to Boston to attend his half brother’s funeral.
The plot thickens when he discovers that Bud was murdered in front of the law office where his ex-lover, Bailey, works. Soon after he arrives, he finds himself in the middle of every type of emotional drama that dysfunctional families seem to thrive on. He finally meets his daughter, Isabella, who proves to be a highly intelligent, precocious 3 year old. He then learns that her mother is in danger and proceeds to try to find out who is trying to hurt her (and by association), his precious daughter. His investigation turns up that the murder and the ex-lover’s case are deeply intertwined. To keep her safe, he takes Isabella with him as he follows leads to solve the mystery of finding out who wants to see Bailey dead. At R&B headquarters (his security company), a couple of the bodyguards are assigned to keep an eye on his daughter for a while. Needless to say, Isabella soon has these big, burly tough guys wrapped around her little finger. They bought her a miniature white “gi” (pajamas) and taught her some basic martial arts moves.
This novel is part mystery / part family drama / part reunited romance. It is fast paced with many twists & turns, scandals and skeletons falling out of lots of closets. I look forward to reading the next book in this series :)
The plot thickens when he discovers that Bud was murdered in front of the law office where his ex-lover, Bailey, works. Soon after he arrives, he finds himself in the middle of every type of emotional drama that dysfunctional families seem to thrive on. He finally meets his daughter, Isabella, who proves to be a highly intelligent, precocious 3 year old. He then learns that her mother is in danger and proceeds to try to find out who is trying to hurt her (and by association), his precious daughter. His investigation turns up that the murder and the ex-lover’s case are deeply intertwined. To keep her safe, he takes Isabella with him as he follows leads to solve the mystery of finding out who wants to see Bailey dead. At R&B headquarters (his security company), a couple of the bodyguards are assigned to keep an eye on his daughter for a while. Needless to say, Isabella soon has these big, burly tough guys wrapped around her little finger. They bought her a miniature white “gi” (pajamas) and taught her some basic martial arts moves.
This novel is part mystery / part family drama / part reunited romance. It is fast paced with many twists & turns, scandals and skeletons falling out of lots of closets. I look forward to reading the next book in this series :)
July 15, 2014
After Bogie’s brother Bud is murdered, he goes back to the home he was never welcomed at. Being a private investigator, he then gets drawn into protecting Bailey, his former girlfriend, along with the daughter that he has never seen. Once he meets three-year-old Isabella, he knows he’ll never give her up. When Bud’s murder and Bailey’s death threats start pointing in the same direction, Bogie finds out just how much he has been lied to. Could he and Bailey pick up where they left off, or is it too late?
When I first started reading this, I became confused very fast. So many names were thrown in at once that my mind became jumbled. I stopped and wrote the names and relations down to refer to. This helped a lot. After reading a ways though, I didn't need it. Everyone became very clear. Other than that, I loved the story. There was a bit of repeating that could have been left out. Then it wouldn't have been quite so long.
I felt sorry for Bogie for his childhood, but he became a very good father in spite of it. Little Isabel was adorable and so trusting. I liked the way everyone was family, even though they weren't. I think my favorite character though was Randy, Amanda’s fiancé. He seemed wise beyond his years. I would definitely recommend reading this.
When I first started reading this, I became confused very fast. So many names were thrown in at once that my mind became jumbled. I stopped and wrote the names and relations down to refer to. This helped a lot. After reading a ways though, I didn't need it. Everyone became very clear. Other than that, I loved the story. There was a bit of repeating that could have been left out. Then it wouldn't have been quite so long.
I felt sorry for Bogie for his childhood, but he became a very good father in spite of it. Little Isabel was adorable and so trusting. I liked the way everyone was family, even though they weren't. I think my favorite character though was Randy, Amanda’s fiancé. He seemed wise beyond his years. I would definitely recommend reading this.
August 25, 2014
This book is filled with action and lots of lies and secrets right from the beginning page! I don't know how others like to read murder/mystery books or any kind of book for that matter, but I do appreciate the writer giving each person's take on what happened to them that day.
So, in The Girl in White Pajama's you will get to hear several key players and what their thoughts are and from those intimate details I figured out that the killer was one of two people and I was correct. I love it when I can figure out who did it before the book actually tells me who did, but to me that is the fun part about reading these kind of stories because they cause me to really think and work out different scenarios in my mind.
This is also a story about family, betrayals, hatred and love, but mostly about a couple coming to terms with decisions that they made three years ago that cost them both a lot of heartache and bad feelings that weren't really necessary because they never stopped loving each other.
While this is a book about searching for the killer of a Boston cop, it is also a heartwarming story about the ones that Bogie loves and it will ultimately give him more than he could have ever imagined.
So, in The Girl in White Pajama's you will get to hear several key players and what their thoughts are and from those intimate details I figured out that the killer was one of two people and I was correct. I love it when I can figure out who did it before the book actually tells me who did, but to me that is the fun part about reading these kind of stories because they cause me to really think and work out different scenarios in my mind.
This is also a story about family, betrayals, hatred and love, but mostly about a couple coming to terms with decisions that they made three years ago that cost them both a lot of heartache and bad feelings that weren't really necessary because they never stopped loving each other.
While this is a book about searching for the killer of a Boston cop, it is also a heartwarming story about the ones that Bogie loves and it will ultimately give him more than he could have ever imagined.
July 31, 2014
The Girl in White Pajamas has all the makings of an exceptional murder mystery mixed with the drama of the All American Dysfunctional Family. Lies, deceit, and scandal are abundant in this story and with so many twists and turns in the plot, I became completely engrossed with this well-written story. Bogie’s family was a true train wreck and I could not help but be entertained at times at the drama that was unfolding before my eyes. It was such a joy discovering who the Girl in White Pajamas was. Wise beyond her years, she wove her way into my heart and provided many smiles throughout the story.
Ms. Birdy has managed to create an entertaining and intriguing novel that captivated my attention from the very beginning and kept me guessing ‘who-done-it’ right to the very end. The ending was very intense and I was literally on the edge of my seat hoping for a good outcome. If you love a good murder mystery that will keep you guessing, then look no further than The Girl in White Pajamas!
*I was gifted a copy of this book from the author via Beck Valley Book Tours in exchange for an honest review.
Ms. Birdy has managed to create an entertaining and intriguing novel that captivated my attention from the very beginning and kept me guessing ‘who-done-it’ right to the very end. The ending was very intense and I was literally on the edge of my seat hoping for a good outcome. If you love a good murder mystery that will keep you guessing, then look no further than The Girl in White Pajamas!
*I was gifted a copy of this book from the author via Beck Valley Book Tours in exchange for an honest review.
August 7, 2014
This family is so twisted that it makes mine look perfectly sane! In the beginning The Girl in White Pajamas is kind of confusing, trying to keep track of the different characters and who they are to each other. Because they're mostly all related it makes it that much more difficult to keep track of everyone.
Chris Birdy brought to life the boy who was shunned and ignored by his family and moved on to make something of his life, while most of the rest of his family squandered theirs. Bogie loves his teenage daughter (even when he can't understand her) and desperately wants to meet his 3 year old daughter. The circumstances in this book allow them to meet, and his younger daughter is a spunky handful that made me laugh out loud! She is so much like my daughters that I wondered if Chris Birdy has met my girls!
This story was a quick read for me, since the mystery grabbed me and the characters came to life for me! It was funny, entertaining, and everything a great book should be. I loved it and I can't wait to read the author's next book!
I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.
Chris Birdy brought to life the boy who was shunned and ignored by his family and moved on to make something of his life, while most of the rest of his family squandered theirs. Bogie loves his teenage daughter (even when he can't understand her) and desperately wants to meet his 3 year old daughter. The circumstances in this book allow them to meet, and his younger daughter is a spunky handful that made me laugh out loud! She is so much like my daughters that I wondered if Chris Birdy has met my girls!
This story was a quick read for me, since the mystery grabbed me and the characters came to life for me! It was funny, entertaining, and everything a great book should be. I loved it and I can't wait to read the author's next book!
I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.
August 21, 2014
I was so excited when I received this book in the mail for review. The cover had me intrigued as well as the tile, so I couldn't wait to dive right in! There are lots of characters and so you have to keep up, but this makes it all that much more exciting. The family is funny with all sorts of craziness. The beginning takes you a minute so that you can dig in and understand everything. Understanding what characters are to who is very important. Paying attention is key. I loved that the author brought to the table a boy that was completely cast out to the side by his family. The boy moved on and became stronger from it. Others in his family seemed to be stuck in a rut. I loved all of the story lines in the book of people trying to make amends and come to terms with things that had happened in the past. This story was a great read and moving on to the next one in the series is going to be easy. I am excited and thrilled to be taking part in the reviews for this author. The reading of this book was spunky and fresh. I loved it!
I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.
I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.
August 8, 2014
I received a free copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review.
Bogie McGruder leads as rather quiet life in Palm Beach, Florida. He and his friend Rose run a security company, she has the physical office in Boston and he runs the reports remotely from Florida. On the same night he finds out his eighteen year old daughter is pregnant and engaged to her boyfriend, his half brother is brutally murdered right outside Bogie's ex girlfriend's law office. Will Bogie be able to face his demons when he returns home? What was Bud doing there? Why was his Step Mother Elizabeth at the scene of the crime?
I love a good mystery, especially one that keeps me guessing right until the very end. This book does exactly that with edge of your seat excitement. The family dynamics also drew me in right from the start. I love little Isabella's grown up attitude for a three year old, it was well beyond her years. All in all, this was a fun read for me and a breath of fresh air, finally a novel that had me baffled. There's even a rekindled romance in the mix, which also complimented the story.
Bogie McGruder leads as rather quiet life in Palm Beach, Florida. He and his friend Rose run a security company, she has the physical office in Boston and he runs the reports remotely from Florida. On the same night he finds out his eighteen year old daughter is pregnant and engaged to her boyfriend, his half brother is brutally murdered right outside Bogie's ex girlfriend's law office. Will Bogie be able to face his demons when he returns home? What was Bud doing there? Why was his Step Mother Elizabeth at the scene of the crime?
I love a good mystery, especially one that keeps me guessing right until the very end. This book does exactly that with edge of your seat excitement. The family dynamics also drew me in right from the start. I love little Isabella's grown up attitude for a three year old, it was well beyond her years. All in all, this was a fun read for me and a breath of fresh air, finally a novel that had me baffled. There's even a rekindled romance in the mix, which also complimented the story.
August 11, 2014
I’m not always a huge fan of mysteries but I occasionally give one a try. In my mind… a good murder mystery (or any suspense novel) really takes a lot of concentration if you want to solve the puzzle before the end. I do love figuring out the mystery… but I love it even more when the ending really surprises me.
The Girl in White Pajamas jumped right into the mystery on page one. I actually found myself wondering, more than once, if I had stepped into the middle of the story. (It wouldn’t be the first time I picked up a book not realizing it was the 2nd in a series). It took me a long time to grasp who all of the characters were (there were a LOT of them). It took me even longer to figure out how everyone related to each other… and to keep track of who was connected and how. Slowly the author brought everything together. She did a pretty amazing job of weaving a story that pulled you right along.
I think if you’re a murder mystery reader… you’d really enjoy Chris Birdy’s writing.
The Girl in White Pajamas jumped right into the mystery on page one. I actually found myself wondering, more than once, if I had stepped into the middle of the story. (It wouldn’t be the first time I picked up a book not realizing it was the 2nd in a series). It took me a long time to grasp who all of the characters were (there were a LOT of them). It took me even longer to figure out how everyone related to each other… and to keep track of who was connected and how. Slowly the author brought everything together. She did a pretty amazing job of weaving a story that pulled you right along.
I think if you’re a murder mystery reader… you’d really enjoy Chris Birdy’s writing.
September 1, 2014
Initially, I found the story a little hard to follow – there is a complicated family tree to negotiate and lots of names are thrown at you in a short space of time. However, as the story unfolds, it becomes easier to keep all the names straight.
I like this genre a lot and often read mysteries and thrillers. I found the story intriguing; there are a lot of different strands to it and so much of the characters’ pasts are bound up in the current events. There were quite a few twists to the story, and it was really quite late in the book before I could make an educated guess as to who the killer was – and I changed my mind several times!
I found that it wasn’t easy to like many of the characters, at least initially. They all have so many flaws and the family is so dysfunctional. However, Bogie grew on me and I liked Rose almost from the beginning. By the end of the book, I found that I would like to read more about certain sections of the family, to see how life pans out for them in the future.
I like this genre a lot and often read mysteries and thrillers. I found the story intriguing; there are a lot of different strands to it and so much of the characters’ pasts are bound up in the current events. There were quite a few twists to the story, and it was really quite late in the book before I could make an educated guess as to who the killer was – and I changed my mind several times!
I found that it wasn’t easy to like many of the characters, at least initially. They all have so many flaws and the family is so dysfunctional. However, Bogie grew on me and I liked Rose almost from the beginning. By the end of the book, I found that I would like to read more about certain sections of the family, to see how life pans out for them in the future.
July 26, 2014
The Girl in White Pajamas by Chris Birdy had me wonder when I started reading it. Chris Birdy gave me a few surprises. The story unravels slowly with twists and turns making the suspense even more enjoyable.
With the funeral of Bud, BPD Officer, his brother Bogie arrives in Palm Beach. His life takes another turn when his ex-lover Bailey and daughter Isabella re-enter his life. The more I read it; the more I saw how cute Isabella was as well as the possibility of reconciliation between her parents.
How does a father start a relationship with a daughter he has never met is all well written in a way that is believable. The cover design did a lot of justice to the storyline. Then, there is Amanda ~ Who is she? Will she change Bogie’s ways? Questions did arise as I was reading.
I found this story well told and fascinating. The end was not that surprising; it was just the way it was told that made it sound very unique. All in all, I do recommend this crime story.
Adriana LG
With the funeral of Bud, BPD Officer, his brother Bogie arrives in Palm Beach. His life takes another turn when his ex-lover Bailey and daughter Isabella re-enter his life. The more I read it; the more I saw how cute Isabella was as well as the possibility of reconciliation between her parents.
How does a father start a relationship with a daughter he has never met is all well written in a way that is believable. The cover design did a lot of justice to the storyline. Then, there is Amanda ~ Who is she? Will she change Bogie’s ways? Questions did arise as I was reading.
I found this story well told and fascinating. The end was not that surprising; it was just the way it was told that made it sound very unique. All in all, I do recommend this crime story.
Adriana LG
August 19, 2014
This is a somewhat madcap adventure which revolves around a murder. Bodie McGruder's brother Officer Bud is gunned down. Bodie, who has been living down in Palm Beach which he figures is far enough away from his VERY dysfunctional family returns to Boston to pay his condolences. Actually what he really wants to do is to find and be reunited with his 3 year old daughter, who he was never told he had. He does know and really wants to find her.
There are so many twists and turns in this novel and so many half truths and lies (I did mention that this family was dysfunctional didn't I) that although you MIGHT figure out who actually committed the murder you will never in a million years believe how Isabella saves the day!
I am looking forward to The Girl in Black Pajamas which is the next book in this series. The Girl in White Pajamas
There are so many twists and turns in this novel and so many half truths and lies (I did mention that this family was dysfunctional didn't I) that although you MIGHT figure out who actually committed the murder you will never in a million years believe how Isabella saves the day!
I am looking forward to The Girl in Black Pajamas which is the next book in this series. The Girl in White Pajamas
August 22, 2014
I love the name Isabella. This character had a name that fit her personality. She was a great character to like. I enjoyed the relationships in this book and how the author tried to reconnect them. There were blood relationships, friendships, and a couple that were all bound by lies. As the book went on it was obvious that someone wanted the lies to stay hidden and they would kill to make sure they did. I did not expect the ending, but it make me cheer for the "savior". However was everyone saved? Will the characters be able to move on after all that they have been through? I already have the second book, "The Girl in Black Pajamas", and I can not wait to read it. This is definitely an author that I will follow for new releases. She was able to switch locations in the book seamlessly, and it was easy to follow. I am giving this book a 5/5. I received this book to review through Beck Valley Books Book Tours, all the opinions above are 100% my own.
July 28, 2014
Loved this book! Period.
I will say, there are a lot of names and characters to keep track of and if you aren’t paying attention, it is easy to mix people up, but it was a fantastic read.
I couldn’t figure out how the title related to the story until about three quarters of the way through the book, but then it hit me and I loved it!
I cannot wait to continue on and read what comes next – and I certainly hope it contains the same characters because I really grew to love them… well, most of them!
There is nothing better than a good mystery where the ending is not predictable. As much as I tried to figure this one out, I was definitely thrown off and never would have figured it out myself if Rose hadn’t started down the right path.
If you enjoy murder mysteries, I highly recommend this book. The entire story will pull you in and have you hooked!
I will say, there are a lot of names and characters to keep track of and if you aren’t paying attention, it is easy to mix people up, but it was a fantastic read.
I couldn’t figure out how the title related to the story until about three quarters of the way through the book, but then it hit me and I loved it!
I cannot wait to continue on and read what comes next – and I certainly hope it contains the same characters because I really grew to love them… well, most of them!
There is nothing better than a good mystery where the ending is not predictable. As much as I tried to figure this one out, I was definitely thrown off and never would have figured it out myself if Rose hadn’t started down the right path.
If you enjoy murder mysteries, I highly recommend this book. The entire story will pull you in and have you hooked!
September 5, 2014
"I received this item free in exchange for my honest opinions. All views and opinions are my own."
"The Girl in White Pajamas" By: Chris Birdy is a captivating murder mystery that leaves you on the edge of your seat. From the first word to the last, you are left captivated by the character driven plot lines.
With the help of Bogie McGruder, the main character, you will go on a wild ride of deception, lies, and secrets, as well as find love, life, and forgiveness.
I could not put this book down, and look forward to it’s sequels. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good mystery and the stimulation of emotions through an adventurous read such as this.
As a reader, I was wildly fueld by the desire to discover “The Girl in White Pajamas!”
"The Girl in White Pajamas" By: Chris Birdy is a captivating murder mystery that leaves you on the edge of your seat. From the first word to the last, you are left captivated by the character driven plot lines.
With the help of Bogie McGruder, the main character, you will go on a wild ride of deception, lies, and secrets, as well as find love, life, and forgiveness.
I could not put this book down, and look forward to it’s sequels. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good mystery and the stimulation of emotions through an adventurous read such as this.
As a reader, I was wildly fueld by the desire to discover “The Girl in White Pajamas!”
September 1, 2014
This story begins with a plethora of characters in several different settings, yet eventually, you come to know how they're intertwined by both blood & lies. I started reading this carefully, to make sure I had all of the players straight, but before I knew it, there were so many crazy people that I just couldn't keep track of them all.
I have to say that I called at least part of the ending about halfway through the book. But I had no idea what kind of ride it was going to be in order to get there! This story is filled with Boston grit, lost loves, humorous wit, deceit, eccentric families & murder.
I don't want to give any details away (that would spoil it), but I read this book in a couple days (unheard of in my house) & can't wait to start the next one in the series!
I have to say that I called at least part of the ending about halfway through the book. But I had no idea what kind of ride it was going to be in order to get there! This story is filled with Boston grit, lost loves, humorous wit, deceit, eccentric families & murder.
I don't want to give any details away (that would spoil it), but I read this book in a couple days (unheard of in my house) & can't wait to start the next one in the series!
November 1, 2013
Bogie McGruder thought he saw it all, his past full of lies, secrets, alcohol and abuse. Not until his brother, Officer Bud is killed and the woman he loves is the center of the murder investigation, does Bogie realize how deep the lies, alcohol and scandals go. Bogie has never met his three year old daughter, Isabel, until her mother's life is in danger. Didn't realize how far Matt Mac Donald and Bud McGruder will wheel and deal before it all collapses and destroys them. Bogie and his team work through the tangles, the lies and the secrets to reveal the truth and learn only the child can be trusted.
May 23, 2014
I loved this story of intrigue and family secrets. Bogie McGruder doesn't have a lot of love for his family and when Bud McGruder is killed that doesn't change. Bogie still feels for the rest of the family he needs to head home. Although he has a new life with his daughter Amanda, his ex-girlfriend Bailey has also been threatened and she has something important, Bogie's other daughter, Isabella. This story is filled with numerous plot twists and a lot of mystery. It is an attention grabber from the beginning and doesn't let go until the last page, great job, can't wait to read the next one!
August 19, 2014
I fell in love with everyone in a heartbeat. As Birdy unwinds his mystery he wound me deeply into Bogie's life. Boston is a city I haven't visited since a high school field trip, but was quickly drawn into Bogie's version of Boston (a much grittier version than my field trip experience).
Birdy wrote with wonderful imagery that painted a picture of the lies and deceit a upwardly mobile man can create making me realize how glad I am to not be a part of that society! Superbly engaging mystery with memorable characters to boot.
Birdy wrote with wonderful imagery that painted a picture of the lies and deceit a upwardly mobile man can create making me realize how glad I am to not be a part of that society! Superbly engaging mystery with memorable characters to boot.
August 13, 2014
Can I say this book made me cry? And then it made me laugh? And then it made my mommy heart mad and sad at the same time?
This author is awesome! Seriously, this book was gripping. I could not put it down!
The little girl sucks you in. Literally!
This is a must read.
And sneak peek!
There is a sequel!
You have to read this one first though so go grab a copy and stay up all night reading it!
This author is awesome! Seriously, this book was gripping. I could not put it down!
The little girl sucks you in. Literally!
This is a must read.
And sneak peek!
There is a sequel!
You have to read this one first though so go grab a copy and stay up all night reading it!
February 14, 2015
a messed up family a a Little Murder
This is kind of like a "Kill Bill" story. I really don't think the name suits the story, as it's not really about the little girl for the most part. It is a real action story, with some very dysfunctional families, murder, threats, blood and gore, and a very smart, very talented 3 year old whose favorite movie is "Kill Bill. I liked it well enough that I wii read the next book, "The Girl In Black Pajamas.
This is kind of like a "Kill Bill" story. I really don't think the name suits the story, as it's not really about the little girl for the most part. It is a real action story, with some very dysfunctional families, murder, threats, blood and gore, and a very smart, very talented 3 year old whose favorite movie is "Kill Bill. I liked it well enough that I wii read the next book, "The Girl In Black Pajamas.
Read
June 26, 2013The Girl in White Pajamas was an excellent read, very hard to put down, but found the time within 2 days! I highly recommend to anyone who enjoys a good murder mystery that doesn't have an obvious storyline or ending. It's intriguing and masterfully written. The best book I've read in a long time.
Maria
Maria
June 28, 2013
When I began reading The Girl with white pajamas I expected another average murder mystery.
Instead I was surprised how quickly I was involved with the book and the characters in it.
I highly recommend this book and hoping to see more writings from Chris Birdy, specially any future sequels.
Instead I was surprised how quickly I was involved with the book and the characters in it.
I highly recommend this book and hoping to see more writings from Chris Birdy, specially any future sequels.
August 5, 2013
* Realistic characters
* Decent plot development
* Plenty of violence and rough language
* Biting satire of the "personal injury" legal practice
* Engaging and entertaining
Pretty good stuff for her first novel - keep'em coming Chris!
* Decent plot development
* Plenty of violence and rough language
* Biting satire of the "personal injury" legal practice
* Engaging and entertaining
Pretty good stuff for her first novel - keep'em coming Chris!
August 7, 2013
Best Book I've read in a long time. You really feel like you're walking through the streets of Boston with the writer. Can't wait for the next book to come out! Thank you Chris Birdy for a truly entertaining read!
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