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Audrey Harte #2
Two Can Play
When a copy-cat killer arrives in the small New England town of Edgeport, criminal psychologist Audrey Harte must use all her skill to solve the case.
Audrey has been hired by the prosecution to help prepare for the trial of 19-year-old serial killer Ian "Boy Scout" Monroe. His one surviving victim, Tori Scott, is the star witness, but when someone begins killing with Monroe's M.O., the authorities -- and Audrey -- begin to wonder if Monroe had a partner. Keeping Tori safe is the main concern, but Audrey has also attracted the copy-cat's attention.
Audrey is drawn into a dangerous game of cat and mouse, and when someone close to her is abducted by the killer, she has no choice but to play. . .
Audrey has been hired by the prosecution to help prepare for the trial of 19-year-old serial killer Ian "Boy Scout" Monroe. His one surviving victim, Tori Scott, is the star witness, but when someone begins killing with Monroe's M.O., the authorities -- and Audrey -- begin to wonder if Monroe had a partner. Keeping Tori safe is the main concern, but Audrey has also attracted the copy-cat's attention.
Audrey is drawn into a dangerous game of cat and mouse, and when someone close to her is abducted by the killer, she has no choice but to play. . .
359 pages, Paperback
First published November 8, 2016
73 people are currently reading
1227 people want to read
About the author
Kate Kessler
8 books370 followersAs a child Kate Kessler seemed to have a knack for finding trouble, and for it finding her. A former delinquent, Kate now prefers to write about trouble rather than cause it, and spends her day writing about why people do the things they do. She lives in New England with her husband. - See more at: http://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titl...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 112 reviews
December 31, 2017
1 Star
Fool me once shame on you. Fool me twice shame on me. The glaring flaws I saw as potential beginner author hiccups have now proven to be Kate Kessler's writing style so this will probably be the final book I pick up in this series. Too many thrillers/mysteries, too little time to force myself to read a series that I do not enjoy.
Two Can Play takes place a few months after It Takes One, Audrey has been promoted and has been asked to work on a case revolving around Rape-y Ian and his many victims. This book like the first chooses to talk down to the reader. Which is never a good idea. Your readers are smart authors, if you hammer points home through repetitive dialogue and constant exposition I'm going to feel less like I'm on a literary journey and more like someone is slapping me in the face yelling DO YOU UNDERSTAND NOW?!
A primo example of the patronization in this novel (this isn't a spoiler since it's revealed like a few chapters into this book) is that it is very clear from circumstances and just listening to the exchange of Ian and Aubrey that our resident psychopath has a partner in crime. That's all the author needed to do is hint at it and let the readers use common sense and some minor bread crumbs to figure it out BUT NO. Our author decides that we don't fully grasp what she's trying to hint towards so the next chapter is of our leading lady talking to a colleague about her theory that Ian has an accomplice in very simplistic terms since she doesn't want that to go over our heads. You think ok, well it's all confirmed now, a bit too much but it's fine, lets move on. NO WAIT! The next chapter has the mysterious accomplice kidnap another victim syringe them with a sleepy time cocktail and then say this stilted dialogue "Don't worry I'm not going to rape you that was Ian's thing. I'm just going to kill you!" I shit you not. The most ridiculous line ever uttered just so that us, the moronic readers, truly grasp the concept that Ian has fucking partner. My god this book would be so much shorter if the author didn't have to explain herself to an idiot like myself over and over again. It'd be more of a novella in the end.
Speaking of ending, my God! Holy cheeseballs the whole time in this reading process I thought there is no way the author is going to do that ending. That's just too cheesy and predictable but nope, sad to say she did. So you literally see the ending coming from a mile away, but don't worry our author still thinks of us as idiots so the accomplices identity is drilled into us in a million different ways just in case you're in the small percentage of readers that didn't see that coming.
The characters that kept me from DNF-ing the series in the first book became ridiculous in this novel, the leading lady Audrey just kept a running dialogue of "I'm so fucked up" going on in her mind (astute observation from a Psychologist!) and her relationship with Jake became ridiculous as they began waxing poetry about how special they are to each other. No. I say no to those people who act like their love is more beautiful and intense then others, that no one has experienced love like them. Its so dramatic and whiny. I thought our leads were in their 30s? Why are they acting like teenagers confess that they will die for each other, this is not a YA book.
I resent that this book was ever compared to my beloved Helen Grace series. If you are a fan of M.J Arlidge do not read this series. The only similarity is that they both have female protagonists but the similarities begin and end there.
Fool me once shame on you. Fool me twice shame on me. The glaring flaws I saw as potential beginner author hiccups have now proven to be Kate Kessler's writing style so this will probably be the final book I pick up in this series. Too many thrillers/mysteries, too little time to force myself to read a series that I do not enjoy.
Two Can Play takes place a few months after It Takes One, Audrey has been promoted and has been asked to work on a case revolving around Rape-y Ian and his many victims. This book like the first chooses to talk down to the reader. Which is never a good idea. Your readers are smart authors, if you hammer points home through repetitive dialogue and constant exposition I'm going to feel less like I'm on a literary journey and more like someone is slapping me in the face yelling DO YOU UNDERSTAND NOW?!
A primo example of the patronization in this novel (this isn't a spoiler since it's revealed like a few chapters into this book) is that it is very clear from circumstances and just listening to the exchange of Ian and Aubrey that our resident psychopath has a partner in crime. That's all the author needed to do is hint at it and let the readers use common sense and some minor bread crumbs to figure it out BUT NO. Our author decides that we don't fully grasp what she's trying to hint towards so the next chapter is of our leading lady talking to a colleague about her theory that Ian has an accomplice in very simplistic terms since she doesn't want that to go over our heads. You think ok, well it's all confirmed now, a bit too much but it's fine, lets move on. NO WAIT! The next chapter has the mysterious accomplice kidnap another victim syringe them with a sleepy time cocktail and then say this stilted dialogue "Don't worry I'm not going to rape you that was Ian's thing. I'm just going to kill you!" I shit you not. The most ridiculous line ever uttered just so that us, the moronic readers, truly grasp the concept that Ian has fucking partner. My god this book would be so much shorter if the author didn't have to explain herself to an idiot like myself over and over again. It'd be more of a novella in the end.
Speaking of ending, my God! Holy cheeseballs the whole time in this reading process I thought there is no way the author is going to do that ending. That's just too cheesy and predictable but nope, sad to say she did. So you literally see the ending coming from a mile away, but don't worry our author still thinks of us as idiots so the accomplices identity is drilled into us in a million different ways just in case you're in the small percentage of readers that didn't see that coming.
The characters that kept me from DNF-ing the series in the first book became ridiculous in this novel, the leading lady Audrey just kept a running dialogue of "I'm so fucked up" going on in her mind (astute observation from a Psychologist!) and her relationship with Jake became ridiculous as they began waxing poetry about how special they are to each other. No. I say no to those people who act like their love is more beautiful and intense then others, that no one has experienced love like them. Its so dramatic and whiny. I thought our leads were in their 30s? Why are they acting like teenagers confess that they will die for each other, this is not a YA book.
I resent that this book was ever compared to my beloved Helen Grace series. If you are a fan of M.J Arlidge do not read this series. The only similarity is that they both have female protagonists but the similarities begin and end there.
February 6, 2023
Receiving this free paperback book, I didn't realize it was a trilogy and started reading it for a book challenge, but I guess it just wasn't for me. 2.5 stars
July 31, 2018
Audrey is a very different heroine. Her past certainly informs everything in her life. This second entry in the series is as full of wild twists and turns as the first.
March 14, 2017
Read this book!!!! Couldn't put this one down!
I loved this book as much as I loved the first one!!! I had such a hard time putting this book down. There is so much suspense and mystery involved. The only thing lacking is some physical descriptions of Jake & Audrey together, if you know what I mean :) but still a five star read! I can't wait until book 3 comes out. Kate Kessler gained a life time reader of her work!
I loved this book as much as I loved the first one!!! I had such a hard time putting this book down. There is so much suspense and mystery involved. The only thing lacking is some physical descriptions of Jake & Audrey together, if you know what I mean :) but still a five star read! I can't wait until book 3 comes out. Kate Kessler gained a life time reader of her work!
February 27, 2022
I enjoy the Audrey Harte series. Even when I can figure it out (I read a lot of psychological thrillers and love psychology) the type and unusual murderers and events makes it a fascinating reading experience. Can't wait to start the 3rd one
October 5, 2017
You know what sucks? When a character eats something unhealthy & delicious, then immediately thinks, "I'll need to go to the gym for that." Perhaps let your characters enjoy food without thinking that they'll "have to make up for that"? Please? To not shame themselves? Perhaps don't write that your character feels "soft and squishy, but not in a good way"? Because that's me. I enjoy food & don't exercise. Actually, let's not just limit this to characters. In real life, don't guilt ourselves and each other for enjoying unhealthy food. Please?
I like the book and the author, so this is only a minor criticism, but it kind of pissed me off last night. Then I ate chocolate. Then I felt better.
I like the book and the author, so this is only a minor criticism, but it kind of pissed me off last night. Then I ate chocolate. Then I felt better.
November 18, 2016
Dr. Audrey Harte is slowly becoming one of my favorite characters...she is strong, brave, and doesn't take shit from anyone, my kind of woman. This book picks up a couple of months after the ending of the first in the series, and Audrey is helping with an investigation surrounding a young, handsome boy accused of murdering and raping several girl. The only reason I didn't love, love, love this book was because I wanted more steamy, sexy scenes between Jake and Audrey, but that is just my opinion :) Can't wait for book #3!
June 30, 2017
This was a chore to read as I quickly lost interest in the characters I couldn't understand their wants and needs and felt very confused. Audrey Harte as a criminal psychologist was unbelievably thick and I was fed up the number of times the reader is told she killed someone. Yes we know but no need to ram it down our throats.
The only interesting moments were the exchanges between Harte and Monroe a serial killer and there wasn't enough of them.
The only interesting moments were the exchanges between Harte and Monroe a serial killer and there wasn't enough of them.
February 3, 2019
This was an amazing story! As for the ending, I can't say I didn't see it coming but it was still awesome. This book continues to follow Audrey as she is hired by the prosecution to find out all she can about this young serial killer named Ian Monroe. Audrey starts receiving creepy packages of trophies from his victims and wonders if he acted alone. I don't want to go into the story more as to not spoil it but I highly recommend it.
August 2, 2017
A real thriller: many surprises.
February 6, 2017
Two Can Play is the second book in the Audrey Harte series, a clinical psychologist who once did a stint in a juvenile facility for killing the pedophile father of her former best friend, Maggie. She is bright, intelligent and has a penchant for attracting crazies.
In the sequel, Ian Monroe, a murdering rapist is getting ready to stand trial for his heinous crimes. Audrey is called in to assess and evaluate the survivors of his assaults and determine who is strong enough to appear in court; not to mention, she is granted time to speak with Ian Monroe, a psychopath with no remorse. In the course of her investigation, she discovers he had an accomplice and that person may be closer to Audrey than she realizes.
It's not hard to figure out the identity of the accomplice since the author drops little clues and Audrey herself picks up on them like we do but since she's human and willing to give the benefit of the doubt, she ignores her instincts (bad idea) and comes face to face with the killer.
I remember I didn't like the first book It Takes One as much as I hoped because I felt it was too romance-y but in this one, the action starts almost immediately, there are new characters in play and the narrative is more plot driven. Also, Jake is not just the boyfriend here but a team player, as he is enlisted by the ADA to investigate a potential suspect.
He and Audrey are partners in crime, not just romantic partners, alluding to the title of the book and contrasting with the dissimilar bond the killers share. Audrey and Jake are equals; Ian and his psycho partner are not.
I didn't like or dislike Audrey in the first book but in this one, I began to like her more, especially those moments she spends with her family where she reveals some of her biggest, realistic fears; losing her mother to cancer and her father to alcoholism and losing the fragile bond she recently forged with her sister Jenny in light of their mother's illness.
Audrey is tough, loyal and flawed. She makes mistakes but she owns them, realizes what she did or did not do and is aware she needs to do better. We all do.
I look forward to the third book.
In the sequel, Ian Monroe, a murdering rapist is getting ready to stand trial for his heinous crimes. Audrey is called in to assess and evaluate the survivors of his assaults and determine who is strong enough to appear in court; not to mention, she is granted time to speak with Ian Monroe, a psychopath with no remorse. In the course of her investigation, she discovers he had an accomplice and that person may be closer to Audrey than she realizes.
It's not hard to figure out the identity of the accomplice since the author drops little clues and Audrey herself picks up on them like we do but since she's human and willing to give the benefit of the doubt, she ignores her instincts (bad idea) and comes face to face with the killer.
I remember I didn't like the first book It Takes One as much as I hoped because I felt it was too romance-y but in this one, the action starts almost immediately, there are new characters in play and the narrative is more plot driven. Also, Jake is not just the boyfriend here but a team player, as he is enlisted by the ADA to investigate a potential suspect.
He and Audrey are partners in crime, not just romantic partners, alluding to the title of the book and contrasting with the dissimilar bond the killers share. Audrey and Jake are equals; Ian and his psycho partner are not.
I didn't like or dislike Audrey in the first book but in this one, I began to like her more, especially those moments she spends with her family where she reveals some of her biggest, realistic fears; losing her mother to cancer and her father to alcoholism and losing the fragile bond she recently forged with her sister Jenny in light of their mother's illness.
Audrey is tough, loyal and flawed. She makes mistakes but she owns them, realizes what she did or did not do and is aware she needs to do better. We all do.
I look forward to the third book.
November 19, 2016
Riveting!
Once again, Kessler has delivered a riveting novel. Two Can Play is a thrilling sequel, just as good as its predecessor, packed with mystery and thrills that left me on the edge of my seat. Kessler has the gift of never giving anything away until all is revealed and it leaves you gasping and thinking to yourself, "why didn't I see it?!" I am anxiously awaiting Three Strikes! Thank you for your masterpieces.
Once again, Kessler has delivered a riveting novel. Two Can Play is a thrilling sequel, just as good as its predecessor, packed with mystery and thrills that left me on the edge of my seat. Kessler has the gift of never giving anything away until all is revealed and it leaves you gasping and thinking to yourself, "why didn't I see it?!" I am anxiously awaiting Three Strikes! Thank you for your masterpieces.
September 13, 2020
Unfortunately was able to predict exactly what was going to happen early on into the book.
October 26, 2024
Ok, I'm giving this like 3.5 ⭐️ I really need half stars here, goodreads!
This is the second book in the Audrey Harter series. Most of the gang is back, Jake, Alisha, Neve, the mom and dad, Linc (briefly). But this time, Audrey has gotten a promotion, she is working with the FBI and attorneys to lock a rape-y Ian behind bars, who they also believed murdered a bunch of young, blonde blue eyed girls. He is a real scumball. But everything changes when Ian is behind bars and there is another murder. Uh-oh...apparently, he had a partner in crime, and now we are on a journey to find said partner.
Now, the reason for my low rating is the repetitive paragraphs and Audrey, being a complete badass, talks down on herself from the events of the first book and her past. Like...come on girl, as a psychologist, you should do better! Also, I don't know how many times I need to be reminded that she killed someone when she was younger with her friend Maggie. Yup, I got it. Read it. Don't need a reminder in damn near every chapter. 😑 we got it. Let's move on. I know this makes her unique and A+ for you taking responsibility and doing your time... but stop ✋️
Now, I was excited to get into the 2nd book because I really wanted to watch Jake and Audrey grow. I loved their banter in the first book and how they pushed and pulled each other, and I was rooting for Jake! Now I just feel like they are teenagers. I love his protective attitude towards her and wanting her to be safe and always being there for her. I hate their maybe connection. I still don't feel like they have moved on deeper from the first book, which is upsetting. They have been through so much together, and I feel like they are playing house. Uh....lame.
The plot of this story was good. Although I will say I figured it out pretty quick. I don't think I would classify this a thriller. Maybe a mystery suspense, but not thriller. I sadly was not rushing to find out our mystery killer. I knew. I also knew what was gonna happen before it did. It was obvious, and when it comes to my mystery books, I like the twists that leave me a little speechless or looking at the wall for a while.
I do like this author. Her writing is decent other than just being repetitive. Her story is good, her character and world building are great! She goes into the little details that some authors forget about, and that just makes me smile.
I still feel like Audrey is a little dull. She is always talking like a psychologist, even to the people around her who have been in her life for 20+ years. It's ok to let your hair down and not be psychoanalizing everything or everyone around you. I get it, I just don't like it. I want some light and fluffy personal Audrey. 😩 eating ice cream with your parents doesn't count!
I will continue in the series as I am one of those once I start it. If I don't finish it, I will feel un-accomplished and empty. I do have to know how it all ends.
This is the second book in the Audrey Harter series. Most of the gang is back, Jake, Alisha, Neve, the mom and dad, Linc (briefly). But this time, Audrey has gotten a promotion, she is working with the FBI and attorneys to lock a rape-y Ian behind bars, who they also believed murdered a bunch of young, blonde blue eyed girls. He is a real scumball. But everything changes when Ian is behind bars and there is another murder. Uh-oh...apparently, he had a partner in crime, and now we are on a journey to find said partner.
Now, the reason for my low rating is the repetitive paragraphs and Audrey, being a complete badass, talks down on herself from the events of the first book and her past. Like...come on girl, as a psychologist, you should do better! Also, I don't know how many times I need to be reminded that she killed someone when she was younger with her friend Maggie. Yup, I got it. Read it. Don't need a reminder in damn near every chapter. 😑 we got it. Let's move on. I know this makes her unique and A+ for you taking responsibility and doing your time... but stop ✋️
Now, I was excited to get into the 2nd book because I really wanted to watch Jake and Audrey grow. I loved their banter in the first book and how they pushed and pulled each other, and I was rooting for Jake! Now I just feel like they are teenagers. I love his protective attitude towards her and wanting her to be safe and always being there for her. I hate their maybe connection. I still don't feel like they have moved on deeper from the first book, which is upsetting. They have been through so much together, and I feel like they are playing house. Uh....lame.
The plot of this story was good. Although I will say I figured it out pretty quick. I don't think I would classify this a thriller. Maybe a mystery suspense, but not thriller. I sadly was not rushing to find out our mystery killer. I knew. I also knew what was gonna happen before it did. It was obvious, and when it comes to my mystery books, I like the twists that leave me a little speechless or looking at the wall for a while.
I do like this author. Her writing is decent other than just being repetitive. Her story is good, her character and world building are great! She goes into the little details that some authors forget about, and that just makes me smile.
I still feel like Audrey is a little dull. She is always talking like a psychologist, even to the people around her who have been in her life for 20+ years. It's ok to let your hair down and not be psychoanalizing everything or everyone around you. I get it, I just don't like it. I want some light and fluffy personal Audrey. 😩 eating ice cream with your parents doesn't count!
I will continue in the series as I am one of those once I start it. If I don't finish it, I will feel un-accomplished and empty. I do have to know how it all ends.
April 30, 2019
In the second Audrey Harte novel, the child psychologist introduced in It Takes One has taken time off from her consulting job on the TV show "Kids Who Kill" to help the prosecution of a teenage serial killer close to her hometown in Maine. Specifically, Audrey is supposed to find out whether the victim who survived when Ian Monroe was caught red-handed will be able to testify against him. The complications thicken fast when a serial killer with an identical M.O. starts dropping victims, suggesting at the very least that Monroe has an accomplice. Pretty soon the new killer starts paying personal attention to Audrey and the people close to her, including steamy bar owner Jake and his niece. Meantime, Jake has a murderous secret of his own. Meantime meantime, the teenage perpetrator in the last murder Audrey solved needs some personal attention, meaning our heroine has to go back to the juvenile facility where she paid for the murder she herself committed as a teen.
Heavy stuff, right? Well, that's what you get for reading a book about serial killers. Luckily, Audrey Harte is a tough broad. Also, the chemistry between her and Jake is hard to resist. But I haven't even touched on some of the twisted stuff that happens in this book, such as a corpse turning up in Audrey's own hotel room, a serial killer groupie doing her main squeeze's evil bidding, a victim becoming a monster and a person Audrey cares about becoming a potential victim. The really off-the-hook part is that in spite of everything, Audrey's mission will always be to heal, to whatever extent is possible, the twisted and broken young person who is behind all these unspeakable crimes - or at least, to teach them how to cope with the life of extreme boredom in store for them after they get caught. Readers of the "get that creep" persuasion may be surprised to find themselves rooting for her to do just that. Maybe it's because "kids who kill" are not far from being victims themselves. Or maybe it's just solid writing.
Kate Kessler, a.k.a. Kate Locke, Kate Cross, Kady Cross, Kathryn Smith and Kate McLaughlin, is the author of such diverse titles as A Game of Scandal, When Seducing a Duke, When Marrying a Scoundrel, When Tempting a Rogue, Brotherhood of the Blood, Night of the Huntress, Taken by the Night, Let the Night Begin, Before I Wake, Dark Side of Dawn, The Girl in the Steel Corset, The Girl with the Windup Heart, Heart of Brass, and of course, the "Immortal Empire" trilogy of God Save the Queen, The Queen is Dead and Long Live the Queen. The next book in the "Audrey Harte" series, meanwhile, is Three Strikes.
Heavy stuff, right? Well, that's what you get for reading a book about serial killers. Luckily, Audrey Harte is a tough broad. Also, the chemistry between her and Jake is hard to resist. But I haven't even touched on some of the twisted stuff that happens in this book, such as a corpse turning up in Audrey's own hotel room, a serial killer groupie doing her main squeeze's evil bidding, a victim becoming a monster and a person Audrey cares about becoming a potential victim. The really off-the-hook part is that in spite of everything, Audrey's mission will always be to heal, to whatever extent is possible, the twisted and broken young person who is behind all these unspeakable crimes - or at least, to teach them how to cope with the life of extreme boredom in store for them after they get caught. Readers of the "get that creep" persuasion may be surprised to find themselves rooting for her to do just that. Maybe it's because "kids who kill" are not far from being victims themselves. Or maybe it's just solid writing.
Kate Kessler, a.k.a. Kate Locke, Kate Cross, Kady Cross, Kathryn Smith and Kate McLaughlin, is the author of such diverse titles as A Game of Scandal, When Seducing a Duke, When Marrying a Scoundrel, When Tempting a Rogue, Brotherhood of the Blood, Night of the Huntress, Taken by the Night, Let the Night Begin, Before I Wake, Dark Side of Dawn, The Girl in the Steel Corset, The Girl with the Windup Heart, Heart of Brass, and of course, the "Immortal Empire" trilogy of God Save the Queen, The Queen is Dead and Long Live the Queen. The next book in the "Audrey Harte" series, meanwhile, is Three Strikes.
June 6, 2021
3 1/2. I really enjoy this series and the characters, but fresh off a super weak ending, I don’t know. There was a bit too much angst* this time… but I’m jumping ahead. (But, note on the ending: It just suddenly all comes together perfectly, and I can’t stand when that happens. Very television wrap it up by the end of the show feeling)
I love love Audreys job and where it takes her, darn it but the psychology is what grabs me. I’m fascinated by what is making the the serial killers tick, but here is where that * comes into play already - Audrey the character is very into playing How she is a murderer too, and seems to attract the crazy. I know it’s a trope, but it was a bit too much. Every single character referenced it at some point, how she seems to have this pull; and Jake and Audrey make quite a big deal out of how they are both crazy themselves, but also crazy for each other… sigh. A little too round and around, yea we get it. You are both badass and vigilante, check.
I felt like the mind of the murderer was super rushed - we didn’t even learn their motivations. (There was a reference at one point but never followed up on, and I have NO tolerance for loose ends!) That is the part I like, how Audrey discovers what they are thinking, but this time it was too much drawn back to her instead. Maybe there will be better development in the next books?
Because I will be reading them! I enjoy the suspenseful writing a lot, and I’m thinking this lovey dovey “Oh look how crazy we both are” for Jake and Audrey was just to establish their romance; I’m thinking the next book will be back to focusing on the psychology again. And, Jakes background more please? It should be his Dad who was a Tripp, (and does get a tiny mention as a bounty hunter?) but we usually only hear about how his mom abandoned him. (She abandoned the middle kid but not the oldest or youngest? Odd. Details please.)
Ooh I forgot that I like the focus on females psychopathy, I hope that continues. The Bailey guilt? Again, a bit odd, and more fodder for Audrey to be “Oh I’m crazy,” instead of saying it’s been some time since they had talked. Just nitpicking editing for me, I know it doesn’t come across but I like this series I promise!
I love love Audreys job and where it takes her, darn it but the psychology is what grabs me. I’m fascinated by what is making the the serial killers tick, but here is where that * comes into play already - Audrey the character is very into playing How she is a murderer too, and seems to attract the crazy. I know it’s a trope, but it was a bit too much. Every single character referenced it at some point, how she seems to have this pull; and Jake and Audrey make quite a big deal out of how they are both crazy themselves, but also crazy for each other… sigh. A little too round and around, yea we get it. You are both badass and vigilante, check.
I felt like the mind of the murderer was super rushed - we didn’t even learn their motivations. (There was a reference at one point but never followed up on, and I have NO tolerance for loose ends!) That is the part I like, how Audrey discovers what they are thinking, but this time it was too much drawn back to her instead. Maybe there will be better development in the next books?
Because I will be reading them! I enjoy the suspenseful writing a lot, and I’m thinking this lovey dovey “Oh look how crazy we both are” for Jake and Audrey was just to establish their romance; I’m thinking the next book will be back to focusing on the psychology again. And, Jakes background more please? It should be his Dad who was a Tripp, (and does get a tiny mention as a bounty hunter?) but we usually only hear about how his mom abandoned him. (She abandoned the middle kid but not the oldest or youngest? Odd. Details please.)
Ooh I forgot that I like the focus on females psychopathy, I hope that continues. The Bailey guilt? Again, a bit odd, and more fodder for Audrey to be “Oh I’m crazy,” instead of saying it’s been some time since they had talked. Just nitpicking editing for me, I know it doesn’t come across but I like this series I promise!
April 1, 2019
CA CA CRINGE-FEST. What did I find the most annoying? I can’t even decide. Was it the way the author left nothing to reveal when it came to the “plot twist” or even the mystery itself? The irritating way where Audrey mentions over and over and over how “f*cked up” she is? Just to solidify to the reader “this girl is BAD ASS. I mean, how many times can you read “I wanted to hit her in the mouth” and “it’s not the first time she had seen a corpse. One of them she made that way” yawnnnnnn we get it you accidentally killed a guy when you caught him molesting your best friend and knocked him on the head. Hardly makes you a psychopath. But no no, Audrey wears it like a badge of honour of how serious “tough” she is. Speaking of psychopaths... this author writes psychopathic characters so so poorly.. which is such a shame because that’s literally the reason I read this book - teenage psychos? Say no more. Gimme.
But, sigh, instead of a teenage Hannibal that makes your blood go cold.. I got ridiculous sentences on sentences about how Ian “showed no emotion” over and over and over.
This was an okay read but super super drawn out and it was going to be a three star until the end scenes in this book. I mean, the love shared between Audrey and Jake is vomit-in-your-mouth material throughout the whole book but the end scene? Cherry on top. I felt like I was reading a teenage girl’s diary of cops in love. No way that sh*t gets 3 stars.
Thank u, next.
But, sigh, instead of a teenage Hannibal that makes your blood go cold.. I got ridiculous sentences on sentences about how Ian “showed no emotion” over and over and over.
This was an okay read but super super drawn out and it was going to be a three star until the end scenes in this book. I mean, the love shared between Audrey and Jake is vomit-in-your-mouth material throughout the whole book but the end scene? Cherry on top. I felt like I was reading a teenage girl’s diary of cops in love. No way that sh*t gets 3 stars.
Thank u, next.
July 18, 2018
There is no question, these books are dark and primal in the sense that the violence runs deep through the villains and the heroes in equal measure. Sometimes it's hard to know which is which, and what's really disturbing is finding yourself there with the protagonist beating the snot out of a 17 year old girl...and finding satisfaction in it. Requires you to confront yourself in a whole new way... It's a compelling series, but that's not easy to admit. On the mechanics...the language is still appalling, but less so than in the first book. I agree with another reviewer in that I found some things a bit overdone and repetitive. We all know by now that Audrey is a killer, and her psyche is still working that out, but we don't need to be reminded of her motivation every other sentence. It was also somewhat predictable. Still... I'll be requesting the next one from my library.
September 14, 2017
I read according to mood, Sometimes I want something light and frothy and sometimes I want something dark and tart. Kate Kessler combines these cuisines and gives a bit of both. I love it! First of all, I relate to Audrey Harte. She is on the right side of the law but tough and gritty and very, very real. The fact that she killed a child molester as a teen just makes me like her more. The fact that she struggles with her family dynamics but has such a strong love connection with the people she loves makes her so human. Also, there is always a kick ass murder and lots of interesting characters and events populating these stories set in the deep Main woods. I will be reading the next one soon.
January 28, 2019
3.5/5 stars. My daughter got me this book for Christmas not realizing it was a sequel to another book. Usually this type of series can stand alone without reading the other books, but this one referenced the previous volume so often, and in ways you'd only understand if you'd read it, that I was lost. The actual story was fairly good although I figured out "whodunnit" way before the protagonist. Some of the small town cliches were a bit much and the machismo of both Audrey and Jake went over the top at times, but maybe if understand that more if I'd read the previous book? Overall not a bad read, and a quick book to get through.
January 10, 2022
Had some issues with this book. Firstly you do need to the read the first one as there are references made back to it continuously. Second so many authors are making the main characters with faults, problems, quirks etc I'm rreally starting to find it off putting. Even with these issues I found that this book started off with a bang till about two thirds of the wat through there is a major clue and I thought itrtavels down this road this is getting really unrealistic bordering on sheer stupidity of plot. It did and I read it to the end but it did leave me rather flat. Good writing style some good ideas poor ending
September 26, 2018
From the cover:
"Audrey has been hired by the prosecution to help prepare for the trial of 19-year-old serial killer Ian "Boy Scout" Monroe. His one surviving victim, Tori Scott, is the star witness, but when someone begins killing with Monroe's M.O., the authorities - and Audrey - begin to wonder if Monroe had a partner. Keeping Tori safe is the main concern, but Audrey has also attracted the copy-cat's attention.
Audrey is drawn into a dangerous game of cat and mouse, and when someone close to her is abducted by the killer, she has no choice but to play..."
"Audrey has been hired by the prosecution to help prepare for the trial of 19-year-old serial killer Ian "Boy Scout" Monroe. His one surviving victim, Tori Scott, is the star witness, but when someone begins killing with Monroe's M.O., the authorities - and Audrey - begin to wonder if Monroe had a partner. Keeping Tori safe is the main concern, but Audrey has also attracted the copy-cat's attention.
Audrey is drawn into a dangerous game of cat and mouse, and when someone close to her is abducted by the killer, she has no choice but to play..."
October 24, 2018
I wasn’t really sure how much I would like this book after absolutely loving book one, but I was pleasantly surprised and entertained. Kessler did a great job with the new conflict that Audrey faces in this second book.
Long story short, I can’t write a lot so as not to spill the beans on the storyline... but if you liked the first book enough to consider this one, I say go for it!! It’s just as good as the first, and will be one you won’t want to put down—again.
Can’t wait to pick up the third book!
Long story short, I can’t write a lot so as not to spill the beans on the storyline... but if you liked the first book enough to consider this one, I say go for it!! It’s just as good as the first, and will be one you won’t want to put down—again.
Can’t wait to pick up the third book!
October 5, 2017
I really enjoyed this book. I actually thought it was going to be one of the detectives who was the helper. It was a delightful twist and I enjoyed this book very much. Only one thing, this seems to be second in a series and I feel like the plot holes I couldn't connect or wanted to know more about were maybe because I haven't read the first book. It was still a good read regardless. Looking forward to reading the other two books, and glad to have found a new thriller author!
June 22, 2018
3 1/2 stars...not at good as the first. Audrey killed her best friend's father at the age of thirteen. Jake is Audrey's high school crush. At the end of the first novel Audrey and Jake has rediscovered that they were still in love. In the second novel, Audrey is helping a district attorney prosecute serial killer, Ian Monroe. When other teenage girls begin to die with the same MO, Audrey thinks that Ian must have a partner.
January 24, 2019
In the words of the deputy, I have no idea what it is about Audrey the attracts these crazy people to do such stupid things. You get a further glimpse into the world of those who are yanking the chain verses those who are truly fucked up in the head. Family can be a hard thing to swallow when they don't have their shit together however it is even better when they come together in times of a crisis.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 14, 2019
This was quite possibly the most boring serial killer mystery book I have ever read.
First, it was extremely predicable and drawn out. The author's writing style drove me crazy because she was too repetitive; at many times repeating a thought within the same paragraph.
There was a side storyline with Jake's brother that had nothing to do with the story.
I was bored out of my mind reading this.
First, it was extremely predicable and drawn out. The author's writing style drove me crazy because she was too repetitive; at many times repeating a thought within the same paragraph.
There was a side storyline with Jake's brother that had nothing to do with the story.
I was bored out of my mind reading this.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 8, 2020
Second book of the series, and Dr. Harte and her beau, Jake Tripp, are still beating people up and plotting murder. It makes a reader wonder if all mental health professionals are also mentally ill. Otherwise it is a fairly good story about dysfunctional people from dysfunctional families navigating a dysfunctional world.
August 30, 2024
I tried. The first one was ok because I enjoyed how twisty the crime plot was. But the rest of the book was meh. Very juvenile, the characters sound like edge lords claiming to be so badass. Since this one wasn't getting any better on that front and I really have no patience for the family melodrama, I'm opting out.
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