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Southern Fraud Thriller #2
Death Benefits
Alternate cover edition.
Fraud investigator Julia Jackson is back in action, and her next assignment throws her straight into the crosshairs of a desperate man who will do anything to keep his secret safe.
Late one night, a car burns on a lonely rural road, and the discovery of a body—charred beyond recognition—in the driver’s seat sets in motion a series of deadly events. And when the wife of the supposedly deceased driver demands her husband’s million-dollar life insurance payout before the autopsy can be completed, fraud investigators Julia Jackson and Mark Vincent must determine exactly how the victim died and at whose hands.
As Julia and Vincent tangle with angry suspects, another man is working behind the scenes to sever his connection to the body by any means necessary.
Soon Julia and Vincent realize they are not dealing with an average death benefits scam, but with a potential serial killer. (Approximately 77,000 words)
The six-book Southern Fraud Thriller series blends gripping suspense with a hint of Southern charm and a slow-burn romance.
Fraud investigator Julia Jackson is back in action, and her next assignment throws her straight into the crosshairs of a desperate man who will do anything to keep his secret safe.
Late one night, a car burns on a lonely rural road, and the discovery of a body—charred beyond recognition—in the driver’s seat sets in motion a series of deadly events. And when the wife of the supposedly deceased driver demands her husband’s million-dollar life insurance payout before the autopsy can be completed, fraud investigators Julia Jackson and Mark Vincent must determine exactly how the victim died and at whose hands.
As Julia and Vincent tangle with angry suspects, another man is working behind the scenes to sever his connection to the body by any means necessary.
Soon Julia and Vincent realize they are not dealing with an average death benefits scam, but with a potential serial killer. (Approximately 77,000 words)
The six-book Southern Fraud Thriller series blends gripping suspense with a hint of Southern charm and a slow-burn romance.
Unknown Binding
First published January 1, 2012
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
January 3, 2013
DOI Special Agent Julie Jackson is once again partnered with Special Agent Mark Vincent and quite happy about the pairing. They are not so thrilled with the probable insurance fraud that arises when a body is found in a burned out older model car and the presumed widow files for her husbands life insurance within 15 minutes of being notified of his death. Something doesn't feel right. As a matter of fact something doesn't feel right every way they turn: the burn patterns in the car, the mortician/county coroner, the widow's relationship with the sheriff, the urn of ashes. Things just don't feel right. But the pairing, yep that feels just right. Their relationship hasn't gone anywhere since the first book and neither one seems to feel sure where it's going now, but for now, just right is okay.
There are a couple of places I wanted to tell the author to "think", but overall I really enjoyed the book.
It is not necessary to read Absolute Liability or the short story prequel, "Cancellation Notice", to enjoy this book but it is always more fun to read books in order.
Becton's writing has a more finished feel to it this time, and once again the book is well plotted and well paced, and the characters are well developed.
Note: I seldom give 5 star rating on Goodreads because I am comparing these books to the best I ever read. At other sites, I rate just to show much I recommend a book. This is a 5 star recommendation.n.
There are a couple of places I wanted to tell the author to "think", but overall I really enjoyed the book.
It is not necessary to read Absolute Liability or the short story prequel, "Cancellation Notice", to enjoy this book but it is always more fun to read books in order.
Becton's writing has a more finished feel to it this time, and once again the book is well plotted and well paced, and the characters are well developed.
Note: I seldom give 5 star rating on Goodreads because I am comparing these books to the best I ever read. At other sites, I rate just to show much I recommend a book. This is a 5 star recommendation.n.
January 29, 2018
Enjoying the characters
I really like the character development in book 2 - as I am contemplating book 3 download my only concern is each book spending the first few chapters placing almost the same exact paragraphs to explain her motivation in continuing to search for her sisters attacker. I’m sure it’s great for a person who doesn’t start with book 1 - but I’m not a huge fan of the repetition... we will see.
Otherwise the plot stands alone and was a good pace, and I am really enjoying how the author brings in the “bad guys” view. You don’t know WHO he is in identification but you are still getting to know what is driving him.
I really like the character development in book 2 - as I am contemplating book 3 download my only concern is each book spending the first few chapters placing almost the same exact paragraphs to explain her motivation in continuing to search for her sisters attacker. I’m sure it’s great for a person who doesn’t start with book 1 - but I’m not a huge fan of the repetition... we will see.
Otherwise the plot stands alone and was a good pace, and I am really enjoying how the author brings in the “bad guys” view. You don’t know WHO he is in identification but you are still getting to know what is driving him.
July 1, 2020
The corpse in a suspicious car fire is tentatively identified as Theodore Vanderbilt, the owner of the car. When the Medical Examiner identifies the corpse as that of an elderly woman instead of a man, insurance investigator Julia Jackson is doubly convinced that Vanderbilt faked his death and his wife fraudulently tried to claim the double-indemnity amount.
Things get even more confusing, however, when the real Theo Vanderbilt's body is found in his backyard shed with his throat cut ...
Things get even more confusing, however, when the real Theo Vanderbilt's body is found in his backyard shed with his throat cut ...
November 14, 2021
Death Benefits
Insurance fraud investigation can be very very dangerous as Jules and Vincent work to prove fraud over a death in a car crash. Great reading and lots of action to keep you interested. I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
Insurance fraud investigation can be very very dangerous as Jules and Vincent work to prove fraud over a death in a car crash. Great reading and lots of action to keep you interested. I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
June 7, 2019
While I liked it *very* slightly less than the first one, I devoured it anyway. The additional character development was a nice touch.
January 30, 2022
This entire series is now in my "to read" stack! Recommend to mystery lovers.
April 1, 2012
The real test of a series is not the first book, but the second. The first book is an appetizer; the second leads us to the main course. I have three questions in mind when I start a sequel:
1. Does the theme of the series work for more than one book? (Insurance fraud leading to murder, in this case.)
2. Do the continuing story arcs make sense and hint at events yet to come?
3. Will the characters we got to know in book one develop in ways that keep us interested?
I’m happy to report that Death Benefits, book 2 in the Southern Fraud series, passes all those tests with flying colors. Julia Jackson is just as smart and fun to read as she was in Absolute Liability. With Mark Vincent as her permanent partner, she’s back at work keeping middle Georgia safe from insurance defrauders.
Somehow though, when Julia and Vincent are involved, insurance fraud always leads to something… more. Something like murder. But who was murdered? The original holder of the life insurance policy? An accomplice in the death benefits scam? Perhaps even someone completely unattached to the case in any way? There were as many possible victims as there were villains, and it was fun to mix and match them as I read through the book. “Maybe X character killed Y character… in the study with the revolver.”
Yes, the Southern Fraud books are thrillers, but they are FUN thrillers. They inspire a kind of playful reading you wouldn’t use when reading say, the latest Dean Koontz novel. Jennifer Becton manages to handle murder with a light, humorous twist that is truly amazing.
This tone is particularly remarkable considering the insight she gives readers into the mind of the killer. In each of the Southern Fraud books so far, she has sprinkled in chapters from the killer’s perspective. The criminal in Death Benefits has a few loose screws, so the view from his eyes was chilling. Those chapters are just the right amount of seasoning to remind the reader that the story is a thriller, and a murder is involved.
But equally important in a series is the character arc. In Absolute Liability we learned a little of Julia’s family background and how that played a part in her becoming a law enforcement officer. That comes out a little more strongly in Death Benefits, as she continues to search for the man who raped her sister.
Her relationship with Mark Vincent is filled with the realistic tension of two people who are attracted together, who’ve come to a mutual, unspoken agreement not to pursue that attraction for the moment. They work well together, yes, but it’s the few times we see them off the clock that really shine. Becton is allowing their relationship to build at a natural pace, rather than rushing them directly into a romance neither of them is ready for.
I thoroughly enjoyed Death Benefits. If I’d had the time available, I would have read through it in one sitting. Alas, little things like work and sleep got in the way of great fiction. Perhaps when At Fault (Southern Fraud, book 3) comes out, I’ll just take a day off to read it.
Disclaimer, and disclaimer of the disclaimer: I received an ARC of this book from the author. However, I wanted to read it on my iPad and didn’t know how to get the ARC into the Kindle app, so I also bought a copy of the book…. not to mention I bought a copy for my mom, who is a huge fan of these novels.
Five Stars
1. Does the theme of the series work for more than one book? (Insurance fraud leading to murder, in this case.)
2. Do the continuing story arcs make sense and hint at events yet to come?
3. Will the characters we got to know in book one develop in ways that keep us interested?
I’m happy to report that Death Benefits, book 2 in the Southern Fraud series, passes all those tests with flying colors. Julia Jackson is just as smart and fun to read as she was in Absolute Liability. With Mark Vincent as her permanent partner, she’s back at work keeping middle Georgia safe from insurance defrauders.
Somehow though, when Julia and Vincent are involved, insurance fraud always leads to something… more. Something like murder. But who was murdered? The original holder of the life insurance policy? An accomplice in the death benefits scam? Perhaps even someone completely unattached to the case in any way? There were as many possible victims as there were villains, and it was fun to mix and match them as I read through the book. “Maybe X character killed Y character… in the study with the revolver.”
Yes, the Southern Fraud books are thrillers, but they are FUN thrillers. They inspire a kind of playful reading you wouldn’t use when reading say, the latest Dean Koontz novel. Jennifer Becton manages to handle murder with a light, humorous twist that is truly amazing.
This tone is particularly remarkable considering the insight she gives readers into the mind of the killer. In each of the Southern Fraud books so far, she has sprinkled in chapters from the killer’s perspective. The criminal in Death Benefits has a few loose screws, so the view from his eyes was chilling. Those chapters are just the right amount of seasoning to remind the reader that the story is a thriller, and a murder is involved.
But equally important in a series is the character arc. In Absolute Liability we learned a little of Julia’s family background and how that played a part in her becoming a law enforcement officer. That comes out a little more strongly in Death Benefits, as she continues to search for the man who raped her sister.
Her relationship with Mark Vincent is filled with the realistic tension of two people who are attracted together, who’ve come to a mutual, unspoken agreement not to pursue that attraction for the moment. They work well together, yes, but it’s the few times we see them off the clock that really shine. Becton is allowing their relationship to build at a natural pace, rather than rushing them directly into a romance neither of them is ready for.
I thoroughly enjoyed Death Benefits. If I’d had the time available, I would have read through it in one sitting. Alas, little things like work and sleep got in the way of great fiction. Perhaps when At Fault (Southern Fraud, book 3) comes out, I’ll just take a day off to read it.
Disclaimer, and disclaimer of the disclaimer: I received an ARC of this book from the author. However, I wanted to read it on my iPad and didn’t know how to get the ARC into the Kindle app, so I also bought a copy of the book…. not to mention I bought a copy for my mom, who is a huge fan of these novels.
Five Stars
February 8, 2012
Death Benefits is the second book in Becton’s Southern Fraud Thriller series I read the first book, Absolute Liability and loved it so I’ve been waiting impatiently for the follow up. The Southern Fraud series centers on Special Investigator Julia Jackson who works for the Georgia Department of Insurance, and just like in Absolute Liability I found it easy to identify with Julia. She’s smart and capable, but she doesn’t try to be super woman and solve all the world’s problems on her own. She’s also flawed and more than slightly obsessed with her own personal quest for justice, but these character traits serve to make her more likable and understandable to readers.
And then there’s Julia’s new partner Mark Vincent. We were introduced to him in the first book, and in the first chapter of this book it gets confirmed that they are going to be partners at the DOI for a longer period, that they’re working together on the last case wasn’t just a fluke. Cue the hallelujah chorus from thousands of Vincent obsessed Becton fans. Let me tell you...Mark Vincent is hot. Like, “serious and for reals” hot. Whenever he and Julia are “on screen” together they burn up the page. Without giving too much away. Becton has created heaps and heaps of sexual tension between two characters who are not (currently at least, we all have big hopes for the future) romantically involved. And yet there relationship is more about respect, trust, and some really amazing moments of tenderness, then it is about that tension. And...Vincent is hot. (just in case you missed that earlier in the paragraph).
The case that Julia and Vincent are working in Death Benefits is actually pretty disturbing. The sections written from the killer’s point of view are spectacularly creepy. This was true in the previous book as well - the glimpses inside the criminal’s mind in both of the Southern Fraud books feel extremely realistic to me. This particular case involves a body in a burned out car, and a Death Benefits claim made 15 minutes after the widow of the supposed deceased is informed of his demise. The reader, and the investigators, are pretty quick in their guess this is a case of fraud - but who is the person in the car? Where did this body come from. The answers to these questions are both fascinating and kind of brain warping. There is one particularly well written and very visually described scene near the end of the book which has literally broken my brain. I may never be the same. I do not suggest reading that section of this book at 4 am unless you really like to be creeped out.
Even though it is the second in a series, I think that a reader could pick up Death Benefits and jump right in without having read the first book (although I suggest that you do). There are several carry over story lines, but Becton gives enough of an explanation of them to ease in new readers, but not so much that returning readers would feel they are covering similar ground.
Five Stars.
And then there’s Julia’s new partner Mark Vincent. We were introduced to him in the first book, and in the first chapter of this book it gets confirmed that they are going to be partners at the DOI for a longer period, that they’re working together on the last case wasn’t just a fluke. Cue the hallelujah chorus from thousands of Vincent obsessed Becton fans. Let me tell you...Mark Vincent is hot. Like, “serious and for reals” hot. Whenever he and Julia are “on screen” together they burn up the page. Without giving too much away. Becton has created heaps and heaps of sexual tension between two characters who are not (currently at least, we all have big hopes for the future) romantically involved. And yet there relationship is more about respect, trust, and some really amazing moments of tenderness, then it is about that tension. And...Vincent is hot. (just in case you missed that earlier in the paragraph).
The case that Julia and Vincent are working in Death Benefits is actually pretty disturbing. The sections written from the killer’s point of view are spectacularly creepy. This was true in the previous book as well - the glimpses inside the criminal’s mind in both of the Southern Fraud books feel extremely realistic to me. This particular case involves a body in a burned out car, and a Death Benefits claim made 15 minutes after the widow of the supposed deceased is informed of his demise. The reader, and the investigators, are pretty quick in their guess this is a case of fraud - but who is the person in the car? Where did this body come from. The answers to these questions are both fascinating and kind of brain warping. There is one particularly well written and very visually described scene near the end of the book which has literally broken my brain. I may never be the same. I do not suggest reading that section of this book at 4 am unless you really like to be creeped out.
Even though it is the second in a series, I think that a reader could pick up Death Benefits and jump right in without having read the first book (although I suggest that you do). There are several carry over story lines, but Becton gives enough of an explanation of them to ease in new readers, but not so much that returning readers would feel they are covering similar ground.
Five Stars.
February 7, 2012
Becton hits readers with another thriller. Starting with page one, the reader is dropped right into the action. From imagery to characters and banter, Becton continually gains and keeps her reader’s attention. I was so absorbed in the investigation, I found myself taking mental notes as I tried to uncover this mystery alongside the special agents. As the climax approached, I was right there in the action with Julia and Vincent.
When a dead body is discovered, special agents Julia Jackson and Mark Vincent are left with many questions. They must determine if this is a simple death benefits case or something more. Kathy Vanderbilt has one million reasons why she would want her husband dead, but she might not be the only one. In addition to uncovering this mystery, Julia is still secretly working on discovering the identity of her sister’s rapist. With another lead, Julia must try to keep those closest to her from getting involved.
It is Becton’s ability to create vivid scenes for her readers that helps make them feel a part of the story. Whether her characters are in the office, interviewing a suspect, or on the scene, it is easy to see, feel and relate to them. Part of what makes the reader a part of the story are the characters. They are real characters, with real issues, and can be found in anyone’s community. In Julia and Helena’s relationship, I can visualize conversations I have with my best friend over a cup of coffee. Vincent’s desire to reconnect with his estranged son makes him more than a steamy piece of eye candy oozing masculinity. And who doesn’t know, or want to know, a feisty, blue-haired lady like Mrs. Twilley who cracks readers up with her expressions and ability to wield a cane? Let’s not forget Kathy Vanderbilt who represents the southern redneck who needs her “respects.” Let me say, Becton knows her southern lifestyle, and I could see many facets of my southern friends in her characters. That made it all the more enjoyable.
Adding to the reality of her descriptions and characters is the dialog, which is natural and not forced, especially the banter between Julia and Vincent. Beware: smiling, chuckling, and sighing might be the result of experiencing a conversation with Vincent, leaving the reader eager for the next novel to find out exactly what is in store for Julia and Vincent.
While I thoroughly enjoyed this book, I was left with a few unanswered questions. I am not sure those questions will be answered in the next book, but I am anxious to find out more about Tricia’s rapist coming to justice and to see what awaits Vincent and Julia. No doubt there will be more swoon-worthy moments involving Vincent.
ARC copy provided by author
When a dead body is discovered, special agents Julia Jackson and Mark Vincent are left with many questions. They must determine if this is a simple death benefits case or something more. Kathy Vanderbilt has one million reasons why she would want her husband dead, but she might not be the only one. In addition to uncovering this mystery, Julia is still secretly working on discovering the identity of her sister’s rapist. With another lead, Julia must try to keep those closest to her from getting involved.
It is Becton’s ability to create vivid scenes for her readers that helps make them feel a part of the story. Whether her characters are in the office, interviewing a suspect, or on the scene, it is easy to see, feel and relate to them. Part of what makes the reader a part of the story are the characters. They are real characters, with real issues, and can be found in anyone’s community. In Julia and Helena’s relationship, I can visualize conversations I have with my best friend over a cup of coffee. Vincent’s desire to reconnect with his estranged son makes him more than a steamy piece of eye candy oozing masculinity. And who doesn’t know, or want to know, a feisty, blue-haired lady like Mrs. Twilley who cracks readers up with her expressions and ability to wield a cane? Let’s not forget Kathy Vanderbilt who represents the southern redneck who needs her “respects.” Let me say, Becton knows her southern lifestyle, and I could see many facets of my southern friends in her characters. That made it all the more enjoyable.
Adding to the reality of her descriptions and characters is the dialog, which is natural and not forced, especially the banter between Julia and Vincent. Beware: smiling, chuckling, and sighing might be the result of experiencing a conversation with Vincent, leaving the reader eager for the next novel to find out exactly what is in store for Julia and Vincent.
While I thoroughly enjoyed this book, I was left with a few unanswered questions. I am not sure those questions will be answered in the next book, but I am anxious to find out more about Tricia’s rapist coming to justice and to see what awaits Vincent and Julia. No doubt there will be more swoon-worthy moments involving Vincent.
ARC copy provided by author
June 5, 2012
Becton hits readers with another thriller. Starting with page one, the reader is dropped right into the action. From imagery to characters and banter, Becton continually gains and keeps her reader's attention. I was so absorbed in the investigation, I found myself taking mental notes as I tried to uncover this mystery alongside the special agents. As the climax approached, I was right there in the action with Julia and Vincent.
When a dead body is discovered, special agents Julia Jackson and Mark Vincent are left with many questions. They must determine if this is a simple death benefits case or something more. Kathy Vanderbilt has one million reasons why she would want her husband dead, but she might not be the only one. In addition to uncovering this mystery, Julia is still secretly working on discovering the identity of her sister's rapist. With another lead, Julia must try to keep those closest to her from getting involved.
It is Becton's ability to create vivid scenes for her readers that helps make them feel a part of the story. Whether her characters are in the office, interviewing a suspect, or on the scene, it is easy to see, feel and relate to them. Part of what makes the reader a part of the story are the characters. They are real characters, with real issues, and can be found in anyone's community. In Julia and Helena's relationship, I can visualize conversations I have with my best friend over a cup of coffee. Vincent's desire to reconnect with his estranged son makes him more than a steamy piece of eye candy oozing masculinity. And who doesn't know, or want to know, a feisty, blue-haired lady like Mrs. Twilley who cracks readers up with her expressions and ability to wield a cane? Let's not forget Kathy Vanderbilt who represents the southern redneck who needs her "respects." Let me say, Becton knows her southern lifestyle, and I could see many facets of my southern friends in her characters. That made it all the more enjoyable.
Adding to the reality of her descriptions and characters is the dialog, which is natural and not forced, especially the banter between Julia and Vincent. Beware: smiling, chuckling, and sighing might be the result of experiencing a conversation with Vincent, leaving the reader eager for the next novel to find out exactly what is in store for Julia and Vincent.
While I thoroughly enjoyed this book, I was left with a few unanswered questions. I am not sure those questions will be answered in the next book, but I am anxious to find out more about Tricia's rapist coming to justice and to see what awaits Vincent and Julia. No doubt there will be more swoon-worthy moments involving Vincent.
When a dead body is discovered, special agents Julia Jackson and Mark Vincent are left with many questions. They must determine if this is a simple death benefits case or something more. Kathy Vanderbilt has one million reasons why she would want her husband dead, but she might not be the only one. In addition to uncovering this mystery, Julia is still secretly working on discovering the identity of her sister's rapist. With another lead, Julia must try to keep those closest to her from getting involved.
It is Becton's ability to create vivid scenes for her readers that helps make them feel a part of the story. Whether her characters are in the office, interviewing a suspect, or on the scene, it is easy to see, feel and relate to them. Part of what makes the reader a part of the story are the characters. They are real characters, with real issues, and can be found in anyone's community. In Julia and Helena's relationship, I can visualize conversations I have with my best friend over a cup of coffee. Vincent's desire to reconnect with his estranged son makes him more than a steamy piece of eye candy oozing masculinity. And who doesn't know, or want to know, a feisty, blue-haired lady like Mrs. Twilley who cracks readers up with her expressions and ability to wield a cane? Let's not forget Kathy Vanderbilt who represents the southern redneck who needs her "respects." Let me say, Becton knows her southern lifestyle, and I could see many facets of my southern friends in her characters. That made it all the more enjoyable.
Adding to the reality of her descriptions and characters is the dialog, which is natural and not forced, especially the banter between Julia and Vincent. Beware: smiling, chuckling, and sighing might be the result of experiencing a conversation with Vincent, leaving the reader eager for the next novel to find out exactly what is in store for Julia and Vincent.
While I thoroughly enjoyed this book, I was left with a few unanswered questions. I am not sure those questions will be answered in the next book, but I am anxious to find out more about Tricia's rapist coming to justice and to see what awaits Vincent and Julia. No doubt there will be more swoon-worthy moments involving Vincent.
April 21, 2012
Better than the first book, though still not a must-read.
Things that drove me insane - I get that she is all "I don't care about my looks, my job requires me to look frumpy!" But the constant obsession with not putting on a shirt that is too low-cut or buying something the least bit sexy that might accidentally get worn to work got really old. When she ends up in a tank-top late in the book and finds herself all blushy about it? Had to roll my eyes at that one.
But! That is clearly a nitpicky issue. No big deal. Another thing that gets to me is that Becton will insert little chapters that are told from the perspective from the murderer. While it is sometimes fun to hear things from the killer's side I had two major problems with this. One, it makes it too easy to guess who the killer is. In both of her books I easily guessed who the killer was well before the main characters figured it out. Two, it is really jarring to go from 1st person to 3rd person and back again. It took me out of the story every single time.
Things I liked - The mystery. While I figured out what was going on before the main characters did, I still spent a good chunk of the book feeling smug about knowing who the killer was without realizing I was missing a major twist. The main character is still majorly missing the chip in her brain that tells her when she is doing something stupid (lots of dumb decisions in this investigations, not to mention the stupid decisions she is making in her personal life). However, she does seem to be learning and growing, which is a must from a character you follow through multiple books. Her partner, Mark Vincent, is also intriguing, if a little two-dimensional. There is a lot of backstory hinted at for him, however, so I'm sure he'll be fleshed out in the third book. Which I'll read, because I have a compulsive need to know what happens to characters I read even a little about, and because this book was fun.
Things that drove me insane - I get that she is all "I don't care about my looks, my job requires me to look frumpy!" But the constant obsession with not putting on a shirt that is too low-cut or buying something the least bit sexy that might accidentally get worn to work got really old. When she ends up in a tank-top late in the book and finds herself all blushy about it? Had to roll my eyes at that one.
But! That is clearly a nitpicky issue. No big deal. Another thing that gets to me is that Becton will insert little chapters that are told from the perspective from the murderer. While it is sometimes fun to hear things from the killer's side I had two major problems with this. One, it makes it too easy to guess who the killer is. In both of her books I easily guessed who the killer was well before the main characters figured it out. Two, it is really jarring to go from 1st person to 3rd person and back again. It took me out of the story every single time.
Things I liked - The mystery. While I figured out what was going on before the main characters did, I still spent a good chunk of the book feeling smug about knowing who the killer was without realizing I was missing a major twist. The main character is still majorly missing the chip in her brain that tells her when she is doing something stupid (lots of dumb decisions in this investigations, not to mention the stupid decisions she is making in her personal life). However, she does seem to be learning and growing, which is a must from a character you follow through multiple books. Her partner, Mark Vincent, is also intriguing, if a little two-dimensional. There is a lot of backstory hinted at for him, however, so I'm sure he'll be fleshed out in the third book. Which I'll read, because I have a compulsive need to know what happens to characters I read even a little about, and because this book was fun.
February 6, 2012
I’ve been looking forward to reading Death Benefits, Becton’s second book in her Southern Fraud Thriller series and here it is! Hurray! After reading Absolute Liability I was hooked!
On this case, Julia and Vincent are together again, investigating a death benefits claim. The deceased is Theodore Vanderbilt, his body has been badly burn in a car accident. But something’s not right here and red flags are going up everywhere. Vincent and Julia are sent out to investigate. Along the way they stumble into other crimes and find themselves in some dangerous situations.
I like the way Becton slips in a few chapters from the criminal’s point of view, without letting us know who it is. She also adds interesting characters into the mix! Who wouldn’t like the feisty Mrs. Twilley; she’s a hoot!
I’m also enjoying the continuing side story of Julia’s personal investigation to find her sister’s rapist. It’s interesting to see what the affects of rape has done to Tricia and the rest of the family.
Death Benefits is an action packed thriller that puts you on an exciting path of strange twists and turns that had me wondering what was going to happen next! It’s a great whodunit, but with just enough physical attraction between Julia and Vincent to keep the romantic in me happy!
Another fantastic story! Now, I can’t wait until the next one At Fault. That should be out sometime this year! I can’t get enough of Vincent!
On this case, Julia and Vincent are together again, investigating a death benefits claim. The deceased is Theodore Vanderbilt, his body has been badly burn in a car accident. But something’s not right here and red flags are going up everywhere. Vincent and Julia are sent out to investigate. Along the way they stumble into other crimes and find themselves in some dangerous situations.
I like the way Becton slips in a few chapters from the criminal’s point of view, without letting us know who it is. She also adds interesting characters into the mix! Who wouldn’t like the feisty Mrs. Twilley; she’s a hoot!
I’m also enjoying the continuing side story of Julia’s personal investigation to find her sister’s rapist. It’s interesting to see what the affects of rape has done to Tricia and the rest of the family.
Death Benefits is an action packed thriller that puts you on an exciting path of strange twists and turns that had me wondering what was going to happen next! It’s a great whodunit, but with just enough physical attraction between Julia and Vincent to keep the romantic in me happy!
Another fantastic story! Now, I can’t wait until the next one At Fault. That should be out sometime this year! I can’t get enough of Vincent!
May 26, 2012
First of all, let me state once more, this book is a murder mystery thriller and not a cozy murder mystery. There is adult content and blood and gore and it is appropriate for this book. Not one for the sensitive to pick up.
I really enjoyed this thriller. The opening chapter is written by the offender and it chills you. Then we next are reunited, if you read the first book, with our Department of Insurance Special Agents, Julia Jackson and Mark Vincent as they go after a possible 'death benefits scam.'
The location is in Georgia and it shows us the hunting and blue-collar worker mentalities. Not to put them in a group but to show us a different perspective towards working and daily life.
Julia, coming off sick leave, must also deal with her personal demons that are linked to her Sister's rape and family dysfunction. Mark opens up his life a bit for our understanding also.
This book had twists and turns and had me exclaiming out loud several times. I was invested in the story line and read this book quickly.
I look forward to the next volume in this credible series.
I really enjoyed this thriller. The opening chapter is written by the offender and it chills you. Then we next are reunited, if you read the first book, with our Department of Insurance Special Agents, Julia Jackson and Mark Vincent as they go after a possible 'death benefits scam.'
The location is in Georgia and it shows us the hunting and blue-collar worker mentalities. Not to put them in a group but to show us a different perspective towards working and daily life.
Julia, coming off sick leave, must also deal with her personal demons that are linked to her Sister's rape and family dysfunction. Mark opens up his life a bit for our understanding also.
This book had twists and turns and had me exclaiming out loud several times. I was invested in the story line and read this book quickly.
I look forward to the next volume in this credible series.
February 20, 2012
Jennifer Becton does it again!
If you, like me, grew up loving 'Murder She Wrote'.. or are currently one of thousands obsessed with the onslaught of CSI type shows, this is for you!
****Spoiler Alert****
In Death Benefits, we pick up with Julia Jackson just a few weeks after the conclusion of Absolute Liability. She's recovering from her wounds & ready to get back into her life as an investigator with the Department of Insurance. To her surprise, Mark Vincent is back as well, and the two are paired up together on a death benefits case involving a vehicle accident.
I was happy to see Vincent & Julia pick back up shortly were they left off. I love the quips & dialogue they share. It's a refreshing, slow-paced, real-time, relationship. I can't wait to see where the next book takes them, and what crazy cooked up insurance investigation they'll get into next! So looking forward to the next installment... PERIOD!!!
If you, like me, grew up loving 'Murder She Wrote'.. or are currently one of thousands obsessed with the onslaught of CSI type shows, this is for you!
****Spoiler Alert****
In Death Benefits, we pick up with Julia Jackson just a few weeks after the conclusion of Absolute Liability. She's recovering from her wounds & ready to get back into her life as an investigator with the Department of Insurance. To her surprise, Mark Vincent is back as well, and the two are paired up together on a death benefits case involving a vehicle accident.
I was happy to see Vincent & Julia pick back up shortly were they left off. I love the quips & dialogue they share. It's a refreshing, slow-paced, real-time, relationship. I can't wait to see where the next book takes them, and what crazy cooked up insurance investigation they'll get into next! So looking forward to the next installment... PERIOD!!!
Read
February 10, 2016Fraud investigator Julia Jackson is back in action, and her next assignment throws her straight into the crosshairs of a bevy of desperate peopleand one man who will do anything to keep his secret safe. Late one night, a car burns on a lonely rural road, and the discovery of a bodycharred beyond recognitionin the drivers seat sets in motion a series of deadly events. And when the wife of the supposedly deceased driver demands her husbands million-dollar life insurance policy payout before the autopsy can be completed, fraud investigators Julia Jackson and Mark Vincent must determine exactly how the victim died and at whose hands. As Julia and Vincent interview witnesses and tangle with a host of angry suspects, another man is working behind the scenes to sever his mysterious connection to the body by any means necessary. Soon Julia and Vince
nt realize they are not dealing with an average death benefits scam, but with a potential serial killer instead.
nt realize they are not dealing with an average death benefits scam, but with a potential serial killer instead.
January 20, 2013
I actually was able to download from KOB, so that worked.
I loved the book and how Julia and Mark continued to peel away at each other, even if it was not by choice. The issues they face are so outstanding. But so real at the same time. I just hope that Tricia can continue the path she is on, her pain is so real. Julia does not need another Tripp, but she needs someone and I feel that Mark is just the person for her. Her family is a mess and Mark is also a mess, but I think together they can heal each other. Thank goodness she has her neighbor as well. Looking forward to the next book. Hopefully it will not be a long wait. I love reading indie's books and passing them off, so keep them coming and suggest any as well.
Thank you Jennifer.
I loved the book and how Julia and Mark continued to peel away at each other, even if it was not by choice. The issues they face are so outstanding. But so real at the same time. I just hope that Tricia can continue the path she is on, her pain is so real. Julia does not need another Tripp, but she needs someone and I feel that Mark is just the person for her. Her family is a mess and Mark is also a mess, but I think together they can heal each other. Thank goodness she has her neighbor as well. Looking forward to the next book. Hopefully it will not be a long wait. I love reading indie's books and passing them off, so keep them coming and suggest any as well.
Thank you Jennifer.
March 18, 2014
I enjoyed this book and would give it 3 1/2 stars if the app allowed. This was a fun, easy read with a strong female lead character and various quirky, interesting people, and a strong plot.
What was a pleasant surprise was the emphasis on character development, even beyond the main characters. All of the characters were real and believable.
I know nothing about insurance, but I couldn't put the book down when I finally got to all the action and the eye-opening info about insurance fraud. The insurance scams and moments of action are well researched.
What was a pleasant surprise was the emphasis on character development, even beyond the main characters. All of the characters were real and believable.
I know nothing about insurance, but I couldn't put the book down when I finally got to all the action and the eye-opening info about insurance fraud. The insurance scams and moments of action are well researched.
November 16, 2012
I would give this book 3 1/2 stars.
It's a light, catchy mystery book to read. It makes for good entertainment while you are in the car waiting for your kid to finish some activity. I have to say I guessed the bad guy before it was spelled out. Lately, I have been reading a lot of books with leading female characters!
I'm looking forward to the third installement in this Southern Fraud Thrilles series, it comes out this November.
It's a light, catchy mystery book to read. It makes for good entertainment while you are in the car waiting for your kid to finish some activity. I have to say I guessed the bad guy before it was spelled out. Lately, I have been reading a lot of books with leading female characters!
I'm looking forward to the third installement in this Southern Fraud Thrilles series, it comes out this November.
November 3, 2012
The characters are definitely Becton's strength, with the possible exception of Mark Vincent (whose role is almost stereotypically apparent even from the start). They feel like real people with real problems.
The viewpoint shift between third and first person just didn't work for me. The third person writing seemed stilted, and didn't meet the bar set during the rest of the book.
The viewpoint shift between third and first person just didn't work for me. The third person writing seemed stilted, and didn't meet the bar set during the rest of the book.
September 28, 2013
really good mystery. very good plot with many plot threads. this is the second time I read this book. I finished it the first time several months ago. I like to reread books to see if they are really good. I read a lot of books and most serve to keep my mind occupied and that is enough. when I reread a book and it stills keeps me interested I know it is a really good book
April 21, 2014
I liked this book more than that the first one in the series. The stakes are much higher and it's interesting to see her relationship grow with Mark Vincent as well as seeing her make progress with her sister's case. The murders were pretty gruesome though, probably not the best thing to read before going to bed!
April 30, 2012
This book was billed as something for lovers of the tv show Castle and while it wasn't quite as funny, it was a pretty satisfying mystery. Liked the character of Julia Jackson and look forward to some more.
May 4, 2012
This is the second in the Southern Fraud series about an insurance investigator in Georgia. It is a fun read with an interesting mystery plot.Not serious reading ,but sometimes that is just what you need.
January 19, 2013
The second book in this series expanded my love of Becton's writing style. We now have at least the beginning of a possible love interest and a reliable H. The presentation of the villain was a bit OTT, but didn't hurt the book. Still waiting for that third book.
May 21, 2013
I really like this series! It's action packed with decent characters and I enjoy that the story carries on from book to book! Looking forward to book 3 and then the other 3 still to be written in the series!
May 18, 2013
I have wonderful works of literature from the American canon waiting for me to pick them up--and I will soon--but I've been in a mood for good whodunits featuring likeable LEOs and other characters. This series fits the bill; glad I found it. And the ending of this one
February 8, 2016
Story of Julia Patterson and her partner, Mark Vincent, who work for Dept of Insurance. They are trying to solve an insurance fraud case. Julia's own past of dealing with her sister's rape many years and the sparks that exist but are not acted upon all add to the story. Kept my attention.
April 14, 2012
I am really enjoying this series so far. I am hoping with the next installment that the two main characters act on the chemistry between them so that there is a bit of romance in the storyline.
July 4, 2012
This book kept my attention wanting to know what was coming next. Going to get the first book and read.
August 10, 2012
Good read, keeps one guessing right to the end.
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