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The Scholarship
Looking to find harmony, Ella Townes leaves a big Philadelphia college and returns to the mountains where she spent her youth. She quickly makes a friend--Cassidy Ryan, a woman with Down syndrome who is the neighborhood busybody and sister of a very attractive ER doctor whom Ella finds equally charming. Under the watchful eye of Cass, Ella and Reese begin a promising friendship. Then Ella writes a scholarship in memory of a childhood friend who was murdered, and things begin to unravel. The scholarship stirs interest in the cold case, and soon the murderer is maneuvering to protect his secret. After Cass is brutally attacked, Ella and Reese question her. The killer's identity becomes clear, but after twenty years, is there enough evidence to bring him to justice?
260 pages, Paperback
Published August 15, 2017
10 people are currently reading
81 people want to read
About the author
Jaime Maddox
12 books24 followersJaime Maddox grew up on the banks of the Susquehanna River in Northeastern Pennsylvania. As the baby in a family of many children, she was part adored and part ignored, forcing her to find creative ways to fill her time. Her childhood was idyllic, spent hiking, rafting, biking, climbing, and otherwise skinning knees and knuckles. Reading and writing became passions. Although she left home for a brief stint in the big cities of Philadelphia, PA, and Newark, NJ, as soon as she acquired the required paperwork—a medical degree and residency certificate—she came running back.
She fills her hours with a bustling medical practice, two precocious sons, a disobedient dog, and an extraordinary woman who helps her to keep it all together. In her abundant spare time, she reads, writes, twists her body into punishing yoga poses, and whacks golf balls deep into forests. She detests airplanes, snakes, and people who aren’t nice. Her loves are the foods of the world, Broadway musicals, traveling, sandy beaches, massages and pedicures, and the Philadelphia Phillies. (from the publisher's website)
She fills her hours with a bustling medical practice, two precocious sons, a disobedient dog, and an extraordinary woman who helps her to keep it all together. In her abundant spare time, she reads, writes, twists her body into punishing yoga poses, and whacks golf balls deep into forests. She detests airplanes, snakes, and people who aren’t nice. Her loves are the foods of the world, Broadway musicals, traveling, sandy beaches, massages and pedicures, and the Philadelphia Phillies. (from the publisher's website)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
August 8, 2017
This was a really good read. I have to admit, this book was not really on my radar. There seemed to be more buzz around some of the other Bold Strokes Books releases. Which really is surprising since so far, this was my favorite book of their August new releases. At the heart of this book is a really sweet romance, wrapped up in a really interesting cold case murder mystery.
25 years ago, a Pennsylvania neighborhood and a group of close friends, were rocked by the murder of their friend Stephanie. At 17 years old, Steph had her whole life ahead of her. Everybody loved Stephanie, so who would murder her? 25 years later Elle moves back to town to take a job at the university. She is shocked to find out her childhood friend has been murdered. As Elle inserts herself into the community she meets many high school friends of Stephanie, including Reese, a doctor and someone she starts getting closer too. When the case of Stephanie's murder, gets a new investigation, the killer will do anything they can to not get caught. Is this an environment Elle and Reese can start a new relationship in, or will the murder case prevent them from getting close?
While I love mysteries, you don't have to be a murder mystery fan to enjoy this book. This book really is for romance lovers first and foremost. The mystery is a thread that keeps the book exciting and interesting, but really the heart of the book is a romance.
An interesting part of this book is you are in the killers POV every once in a while. Even though you know what the killer is thinking, you don't know for sure who the killer is. I really enjoyed that not knowing for sure who it was, though you knew what they were up to. To be honest, I don't think it is too hard to guess the killer, but there is a twist about the murder, I did not see coming. I will keep it this vague so I don't spoil anything.
I really got sucked into this book. While at times it was pretty low key, a slow burn, sweet romance, other times it got a little heart pounding. The killer is not sitting around waiting to be caught. I just thought this book was really well imagined, well written, and a great read. This is one I can absolutely recommend to romance fans and mystery fans.
An ARC was given to me by BSB, for a honest review.
25 years ago, a Pennsylvania neighborhood and a group of close friends, were rocked by the murder of their friend Stephanie. At 17 years old, Steph had her whole life ahead of her. Everybody loved Stephanie, so who would murder her? 25 years later Elle moves back to town to take a job at the university. She is shocked to find out her childhood friend has been murdered. As Elle inserts herself into the community she meets many high school friends of Stephanie, including Reese, a doctor and someone she starts getting closer too. When the case of Stephanie's murder, gets a new investigation, the killer will do anything they can to not get caught. Is this an environment Elle and Reese can start a new relationship in, or will the murder case prevent them from getting close?
While I love mysteries, you don't have to be a murder mystery fan to enjoy this book. This book really is for romance lovers first and foremost. The mystery is a thread that keeps the book exciting and interesting, but really the heart of the book is a romance.
An interesting part of this book is you are in the killers POV every once in a while. Even though you know what the killer is thinking, you don't know for sure who the killer is. I really enjoyed that not knowing for sure who it was, though you knew what they were up to. To be honest, I don't think it is too hard to guess the killer, but there is a twist about the murder, I did not see coming. I will keep it this vague so I don't spoil anything.
I really got sucked into this book. While at times it was pretty low key, a slow burn, sweet romance, other times it got a little heart pounding. The killer is not sitting around waiting to be caught. I just thought this book was really well imagined, well written, and a great read. This is one I can absolutely recommend to romance fans and mystery fans.
An ARC was given to me by BSB, for a honest review.
September 5, 2017
3 stars for the first 70% of the book. The writing is competent but I didn't feel anything special for the characters or the romance. A victim of too much telling, I suppose. Last 30% of the book I read in one sitting, when the murderer goes into panic mode and the thrills kick up several notches. For the feels, I'd give this part 5 stars, but the murder mystery fan in me says the plot turn is just too unlikely. Also, as a crime mystery/thriller fan, I prefer story lines where the protagonist actually did something to solve the main mystery and it's not due to some coincidence or the stupidity/carelessness of the bad guy. 4.35 stars for the last 30% even though I couldn't put it down.
3.40 stars
ARC from Netgalley / BSB
p.s. I just remembered, and this might be a first I've ever encountered in a BSB book, but the wrong character names were used in a couple of instances at 61%. Hope they fix the retail version
3.40 stars
ARC from Netgalley / BSB
p.s. I just remembered, and this might be a first I've ever encountered in a BSB book, but the wrong character names were used in a couple of instances at 61%. Hope they fix the retail version
October 31, 2017
Maddox has mixed an old cold case and a budding romance together and surprisingly it worked really well. Maddox seems to have been able to create a good balance between the mystery and the romance. Neither outshines the other.
Her characters are likable and well developed and she manages to keep you guessing throughout. Now, please take into account I writing this review on Halloween but Maddox puts you in the head of the killer. You don't know who they are because names aren't added. So this really adds to the mystery of who killed a seventeen year old girl twenty-five years ago. The romance is really well developed. It's a slow burn romance. But I felt the romance was the main story line and the mystery was secondary but it definitely kept you turning the pages.
Everything moves a long at a leisurely jog until the last 30%. Then it takes of like a rocket. Everything seems to fall into place really easily. Although there is a twist at the end that caught me off gaurd. Enjoy!
*ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley*
Her characters are likable and well developed and she manages to keep you guessing throughout. Now, please take into account I writing this review on Halloween but Maddox puts you in the head of the killer. You don't know who they are because names aren't added. So this really adds to the mystery of who killed a seventeen year old girl twenty-five years ago. The romance is really well developed. It's a slow burn romance. But I felt the romance was the main story line and the mystery was secondary but it definitely kept you turning the pages.
Everything moves a long at a leisurely jog until the last 30%. Then it takes of like a rocket. Everything seems to fall into place really easily. Although there is a twist at the end that caught me off gaurd. Enjoy!
*ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley*
January 7, 2021
A truly gripping mystery! I was on the edge of my seat the entire time trying to figure out 'who dun it'. We get a creepy inner monologue of the killer, throughout, but we don't know exactly WHO until the reveal. The thriller component had me truly seething as the killer is trying to justify his actions and then resolves to protect the secret no matter the cost, even if it means killing an innocent woman with down syndrome. It was shocking and I found myself so engrossed and loathing on this guy for trying to protect his own ass and go after sweet Cass!
The romance is there but secondary to the mystery, and there is some to-and-fro because of the angst involved from that. But it was realistic how the characters of Ella and Reese were affected by the loss of the friend they were both enamoured with at young ages. Seeing them connect over that was touching. Both women are around 42, so it's great to see mature, successful ladies finding love and connecting. I do just wish it was deeper and more involved romantically. I feel like we only just skimmed the surface there.
The addition of Reese's sister, Cass, who has down syndrome was refreshing and also heartening. I feel like we don't see enough people of varying physical and cognitive ability, and I'll always advocate for more representation there. Especially where they are just accepted as who they are and loved, without making a big deal of it, or any having massive issues. Yes her family acknowledges it can be tough, and her parents of 70 worry for her in the event of their passing, but her sister is fully prepared to step up in that event. Overall it's a very positive element, and she isn't seen as a burden and is truly cared for and adored by her sister and parents, and others in the community, at her job etc, which is all an absolute joy to see. <--More of this generally all over, please!
So it makes you particularly caring and protective of her, when you find the killer is targeting her and tries to hurt her. Oh boy was I so mad, I can't remember being so angry at a book and character! Which shows how well the writer is at portraying things with such emotion and sensitivity.
All around a really riveting read with difference.
The romance is there but secondary to the mystery, and there is some to-and-fro because of the angst involved from that. But it was realistic how the characters of Ella and Reese were affected by the loss of the friend they were both enamoured with at young ages. Seeing them connect over that was touching. Both women are around 42, so it's great to see mature, successful ladies finding love and connecting. I do just wish it was deeper and more involved romantically. I feel like we only just skimmed the surface there.
The addition of Reese's sister, Cass, who has down syndrome was refreshing and also heartening. I feel like we don't see enough people of varying physical and cognitive ability, and I'll always advocate for more representation there. Especially where they are just accepted as who they are and loved, without making a big deal of it, or any having massive issues. Yes her family acknowledges it can be tough, and her parents of 70 worry for her in the event of their passing, but her sister is fully prepared to step up in that event. Overall it's a very positive element, and she isn't seen as a burden and is truly cared for and adored by her sister and parents, and others in the community, at her job etc, which is all an absolute joy to see. <--More of this generally all over, please!
So it makes you particularly caring and protective of her, when you find the killer is targeting her and tries to hurt her. Oh boy was I so mad, I can't remember being so angry at a book and character! Which shows how well the writer is at portraying things with such emotion and sensitivity.
All around a really riveting read with difference.
October 26, 2018
First book by Ms.Maddox, I wasn't scarred for life so I might be checking out her other books. If you were reluctant to read this book because of the murder that happened 2O years ago, you should not worry as it was not front and center.
This group of people had been friends since young, surprisingly though Ella and Reese didn't know each other but they both knew Stephanie, the murder victim. Big spoiler, proceed with caution
The romance aspect was cleverly written, both hs had interesting careers and their daily lives were not disrupted by thinking of each each other 24-7 after the one-click attraction button was pushed. Ella had a slightly challenging job than Reese but kudos to her, she was always cool when teased/ criticised about it and usually had witty comebacks.
Who killed Stephanie Gate, there were several suspects. I thought I got the right person but the others were suspicious too. Eventually Ms.Maddox showed some mercy by pouring evidence all over the perp. Ella and Reese did some sleuthing job to uncover the truth with the help of the adorable Cass.
An okay read, light on the murder investigation, medium on romance, heavy on family love and friendship
This book is unavailable on KU/Scribd.
Kindle price is USD9.99
This group of people had been friends since young, surprisingly though Ella and Reese didn't know each other but they both knew Stephanie, the murder victim. Big spoiler, proceed with caution
The romance aspect was cleverly written, both hs had interesting careers and their daily lives were not disrupted by thinking of each each other 24-7 after the one-click attraction button was pushed. Ella had a slightly challenging job than Reese but kudos to her, she was always cool when teased/ criticised about it and usually had witty comebacks.
Who killed Stephanie Gate, there were several suspects. I thought I got the right person but the others were suspicious too. Eventually Ms.Maddox showed some mercy by pouring evidence all over the perp. Ella and Reese did some sleuthing job to uncover the truth with the help of the adorable Cass.
An okay read, light on the murder investigation, medium on romance, heavy on family love and friendship
This book is unavailable on KU/Scribd.
Kindle price is USD9.99
July 14, 2017
The Scholarship by Jaime Maddox
This book is an excellent whodunit story wrapped into a delightful romance. Maddox does an excellent job of keeping you intrigued in the slow burn romance all the while knowing there is a cold case being unearthed simultaneously. While the love is brewing between our two mains there is a killer getting more skittish by the day.
Ella Townes spent weeks every summer in the Poconos at Lake Winola, as a young girl visiting her grandparents and making friends with the neighborhood kids at the lake they lived on. For Ella, this idyllic time in her life has a strong hold on her heart and at forty she jumps at the chance to move back to this beautiful lakeside town. Taking a new position as the VP of development at Poconos Mountain University, Ella accepts that her life will probably now include a special lady, she believes wholeheartedly that work will be enough to keep her satisfied.
Reese Ryan is a local ER doctor who has spent almost her entire life in her sleepy hometown. She loves her town, her friends, and her family. She is undeniably connected to this community. She has always been single, never thinking much about it. All of her relationships have been casual, except one, her childhood sweetheart, who was mysteriously murdered right before their high school graduation. When Ella Townes, moves in next door to Reese's parents, all bets are off, this is one woman Reese cannot look over.
What’s great about this book is it has a well thought out plot, involving a murder mystery cold case wrapped around a delightful love story. Each part is done so well and balances each other beautifully. Ella and Reece’s romance is a slow burn filled with attraction and friendship. They circle around each other in the great push-pull that holds your attention and keeps you flipping the page into the night. All the while Maddox is slowly unraveling the mystery of Stephanie Gates death. A great romance with a smart mystery, this is one book of 2017 that you do not want to pass up. So good!
This book is an excellent whodunit story wrapped into a delightful romance. Maddox does an excellent job of keeping you intrigued in the slow burn romance all the while knowing there is a cold case being unearthed simultaneously. While the love is brewing between our two mains there is a killer getting more skittish by the day.
Ella Townes spent weeks every summer in the Poconos at Lake Winola, as a young girl visiting her grandparents and making friends with the neighborhood kids at the lake they lived on. For Ella, this idyllic time in her life has a strong hold on her heart and at forty she jumps at the chance to move back to this beautiful lakeside town. Taking a new position as the VP of development at Poconos Mountain University, Ella accepts that her life will probably now include a special lady, she believes wholeheartedly that work will be enough to keep her satisfied.
Reese Ryan is a local ER doctor who has spent almost her entire life in her sleepy hometown. She loves her town, her friends, and her family. She is undeniably connected to this community. She has always been single, never thinking much about it. All of her relationships have been casual, except one, her childhood sweetheart, who was mysteriously murdered right before their high school graduation. When Ella Townes, moves in next door to Reese's parents, all bets are off, this is one woman Reese cannot look over.
What’s great about this book is it has a well thought out plot, involving a murder mystery cold case wrapped around a delightful love story. Each part is done so well and balances each other beautifully. Ella and Reece’s romance is a slow burn filled with attraction and friendship. They circle around each other in the great push-pull that holds your attention and keeps you flipping the page into the night. All the while Maddox is slowly unraveling the mystery of Stephanie Gates death. A great romance with a smart mystery, this is one book of 2017 that you do not want to pass up. So good!
January 12, 2021
The Scholarship by Jamie Maddox is a cold case murder-mystery and slow burn romance in one. The tone is set when we are transported back to 1993, the night 17-year old Stephanie Gates was murdered in her own bedroom. What makes the scene extra powerful is that we are in the killers head when it all goes down.
Fast forward to present day, we meet Ella Townes who leaves hectic Philadelphia to return to the mountains of her youth. I really liked how the author connected her characters all through the story. Ella was best friends with Stephanie in her youth, spending endless summers at her grandparent’s place on lake Winola. Ella temporarily moves in to house- and doggy sit next door to the Ryan family where she befriends Cass Ryan who has Down Syndrome. Cass is the younger sister of ER doctor Reese who was best friends with Stephanie in college until her death. Reese is part of a small group of friends who all went to school with Stephanie and are alumni of the PMU where Ella now works. All these connections are very important in the plot.
I knew who the murderer was from the get go and I thought that was the way it was written. Like a classic Columbo episode where we spend the whole episode watching the killer squirm, lose their cool and fuck it up at the end. Reading the reviews it turns out most readers saw many suspects with a motive as where I just saw them as obvious red herring, added to make some noise.
The slow burn romance between Ella and Reese was mostly sweet and angst free but wasn’t a panty melting affair (at least not what we could see on the pages). It was obviously not the main drag of the story.
I loved Cass. She was beautifully written and jumped off the page. Also the main theme of the book - the scholarships - was a very interesting subject. All in all an entertaining read.
f/f a few short scenes, but mostly tell
Themes: Lake Winola, Pocono Mountains University (PMU), fund-raising, a scholarship, 2 dollars for gas, the Railriders, Nay Aug Park.
3.8 Stars
Fast forward to present day, we meet Ella Townes who leaves hectic Philadelphia to return to the mountains of her youth. I really liked how the author connected her characters all through the story. Ella was best friends with Stephanie in her youth, spending endless summers at her grandparent’s place on lake Winola. Ella temporarily moves in to house- and doggy sit next door to the Ryan family where she befriends Cass Ryan who has Down Syndrome. Cass is the younger sister of ER doctor Reese who was best friends with Stephanie in college until her death. Reese is part of a small group of friends who all went to school with Stephanie and are alumni of the PMU where Ella now works. All these connections are very important in the plot.
I knew who the murderer was from the get go and I thought that was the way it was written. Like a classic Columbo episode where we spend the whole episode watching the killer squirm, lose their cool and fuck it up at the end. Reading the reviews it turns out most readers saw many suspects with a motive as where I just saw them as obvious red herring, added to make some noise.
The slow burn romance between Ella and Reese was mostly sweet and angst free but wasn’t a panty melting affair (at least not what we could see on the pages). It was obviously not the main drag of the story.
I loved Cass. She was beautifully written and jumped off the page. Also the main theme of the book - the scholarships - was a very interesting subject. All in all an entertaining read.
f/f a few short scenes, but mostly tell
Themes: Lake Winola, Pocono Mountains University (PMU), fund-raising, a scholarship, 2 dollars for gas, the Railriders, Nay Aug Park.
3.8 Stars
July 22, 2017
This is a sweet slow-burn romance wrapped up in a cold case mystery. Or the other way around. It's not important, what matters is that Ms. Maddox found the perfect balance between mystery and romance with multi-layered characters and a well developed plot. As the main characters' relationship grows, the author drops clues into the mystery to keep the reader guessing until (almost) the end. Maddox manages very well the introduction of so many secondary characters and murder suspects. The appearance of a character with Down Syndrome is welcomed in the genre and done thoughtfully.
Overall, a very entertaining mystery/romance. 4 stars.
ARC provided by Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
See my other reviews at www.lezreviewbooks.wordpress.com
Overall, a very entertaining mystery/romance. 4 stars.
ARC provided by Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
See my other reviews at www.lezreviewbooks.wordpress.com
August 8, 2017
This book was really well done and I definitely wasn't expecting to be on the edge of my seat throughout the book when I first read the blurb.
To start of with the romance was sweet between Reese and Ella. Both characters are likable and really lovely people. The romance was a slow build up that created a nice feel to the book around the not so nice murder plot investigation.
Cass was a perfect secondary character that brought a big smile to my face whenever she was in the scene.
The murder plot I thought was well done. I found myself thinking it was every guy that we came across in the story because each one has something planted in the story to make you think that. It definitely had me guessing throughout.
The ending, hard to really say much but can't help but feel slightly disappointed. I felt after everything it was anticlimactic in the end. We had the murders POV throughout the book, and I personally would have liked the end POV when he was discovered because I feel like there was more to the motive than what was said.
I am rating this book 4.5 and have rounded it up because it surprised me how good this was.
I was given this book by NetGalley for an honest review.
To start of with the romance was sweet between Reese and Ella. Both characters are likable and really lovely people. The romance was a slow build up that created a nice feel to the book around the not so nice murder plot investigation.
Cass was a perfect secondary character that brought a big smile to my face whenever she was in the scene.
The murder plot I thought was well done. I found myself thinking it was every guy that we came across in the story because each one has something planted in the story to make you think that. It definitely had me guessing throughout.
The ending, hard to really say much but can't help but feel slightly disappointed. I felt after everything it was anticlimactic in the end. We had the murders POV throughout the book, and I personally would have liked the end POV when he was discovered because I feel like there was more to the motive than what was said.
I am rating this book 4.5 and have rounded it up because it surprised me how good this was.
I was given this book by NetGalley for an honest review.
September 5, 2017
So I should start this review by saying murder mystery.. or mystery in general is not my go to book genre. I am unsure why because I typically enjoy them. I own a few of Maddox's books in paperback, but this is the first book of hers I have read. I thought the book was really good. I had a busy few days and would only get to read for short periods, and it drove me nuts. I wanted to read it all at once. Since I typically do not read mystery, I always buy in 100%. I spend an enormous amount of time speculating as to what is going to happen next. The romance was okay, but as it should be, was not the focus of the book. I really enjoyed the character, Ella. I thought Maddox did a fantastic job with secondary characters and for me they were all likable. Defiantly makes me want to read her other books. I think if you are a mystery fan, this would still be a great book. If you enjoy mystery but it isn't your go to, pick it up anyway I think you will enjoy it.
August 30, 2017
A very compelling story!
A new investigation brings back very painful memories. There are no leads, no evidence available and no witnesses. One person feels the heat aournd the corner and does everything to make sure that the truth never comes out. It’s a story about, among other things, a close-knit family, a slow building romance and a crime passionel. A well-constructed story and with true-to-life characters. I loved Cass. She is a real sweetheart. So pure, authentic, unrestrained and a great asset to the story. This is a great mystery romance and I can highly recommend this book.
A new investigation brings back very painful memories. There are no leads, no evidence available and no witnesses. One person feels the heat aournd the corner and does everything to make sure that the truth never comes out. It’s a story about, among other things, a close-knit family, a slow building romance and a crime passionel. A well-constructed story and with true-to-life characters. I loved Cass. She is a real sweetheart. So pure, authentic, unrestrained and a great asset to the story. This is a great mystery romance and I can highly recommend this book.
December 9, 2017
An honest review thanks to NetGalley. I started out liking this book a bit, but as I progressed, I found myself skipping page after page. Even with the murder mystery and the budding love between Reece and Ella I was bored. You need to have a lot of patience if you are attempting to read this book.
August 10, 2017
This one I just kept reading it started off slow but then picked up overall I enjoyed this one.
NetGalley for a honest review.
NetGalley for a honest review.
July 23, 2017
#I received an ARC from Netgalley and the Publisher in exchange for a honest review#
The Scholarship is an intriguing cold case mystery that lets the reader guessing who did it. Throughout the story the reader gets more and more glues and it kept me engaged and interested in the book till the end. The romance part is rather slow but works perfectly with the mystery part of the book. The only complaint I have is that it felt a little bit too fast in the end. Everything was wrapped up and solved almost within a chapter. All the pieces fell together perfectly- almost too perfectly and I wish it would have been drawn out a bit more.
It was a book that was hard to put down because as a reader you just want to find out who did it or if you are right with your suspicion.
The Scholarship is an intriguing cold case mystery that lets the reader guessing who did it. Throughout the story the reader gets more and more glues and it kept me engaged and interested in the book till the end. The romance part is rather slow but works perfectly with the mystery part of the book. The only complaint I have is that it felt a little bit too fast in the end. Everything was wrapped up and solved almost within a chapter. All the pieces fell together perfectly- almost too perfectly and I wish it would have been drawn out a bit more.
It was a book that was hard to put down because as a reader you just want to find out who did it or if you are right with your suspicion.
September 19, 2017
I'd give this 3.5 stars if I could.
I'm just going to admit this is the first book I've read by Jaime Maddox and when I go back to look at other things she's written it's because I passed over the book cover itself or because it's got "romance" as part of the genre and lately as a general rule I pass over any book published by Bold Strokes if they have any hint of romance because it feels so formulaic. That said there are certain authors that I would read regardless of who published their works or if it was written on a brown paper bag. No offense Bold Strokes... it's me not you.
This story does have the romance thing going on but it's tied into the whole mystery surrounding a girls' death from a decade or so ago. Every once in awhile the killer's thoughts pop up into the story and initially that change in POV irritated me. It didn't irritate me enough to stop me from reading but it did throw me off the first couple of times it happened. Then I got used to it in the flow of the story line and just tried to figure out who among Reese's friends was the murderer. You don't really know until near the end (or at least I didn't).
What does all this mean? Now I have to go back and give Jaime Maddox books another look. I may have missed something good.
I'm just going to admit this is the first book I've read by Jaime Maddox and when I go back to look at other things she's written it's because I passed over the book cover itself or because it's got "romance" as part of the genre and lately as a general rule I pass over any book published by Bold Strokes if they have any hint of romance because it feels so formulaic. That said there are certain authors that I would read regardless of who published their works or if it was written on a brown paper bag. No offense Bold Strokes... it's me not you.
This story does have the romance thing going on but it's tied into the whole mystery surrounding a girls' death from a decade or so ago. Every once in awhile the killer's thoughts pop up into the story and initially that change in POV irritated me. It didn't irritate me enough to stop me from reading but it did throw me off the first couple of times it happened. Then I got used to it in the flow of the story line and just tried to figure out who among Reese's friends was the murderer. You don't really know until near the end (or at least I didn't).
What does all this mean? Now I have to go back and give Jaime Maddox books another look. I may have missed something good.
March 31, 2018
I have struggled with Maddox’s books. I’ve found that they are heavy on the exposition, that they include parallel plots that seem to only tie together out of convenience, and that the endings aren’t satisfying. At about the 90% mark on this one, I was sure that The Scholarship was different. The exposition to dialogue ratio was fine, there were no distracting parallel plots, and there had been a decent amount of tension built up over the mystery. But then there was no payoff. The mystery was solved, but with no drama or tension, and certainly no satisfaction for the reader. Frustrating.
August 21, 2017
Ella Townes moves to the place where she spent her summers during her childhood. There she meets Cassidy Ryan, a woman with Down syndrome, as well as her Cassidy's sister, Reese, an ER doctor. Ella begins draw up a scholarship in the name of her childhood friend who was murdered. The once cold case is reopened for investigation and Cass seems to know something about it.
Although it wasn't too hard to guess who the killer was, although a few times I went back and forth on who it was, I enjoyed that the author kept you guessing throughout most of the book until finally revealing who the killer was.
Romance was not at the forefront of The Scholarship, but Ella and Reese were both characters I enjoyed to read about and was rooting for them. Cass was also an interesting character to read
I applaud the author for taking the book in a direction I thought was unexpected.
Review also posted here: http://wp.me/p4Pp9O-G7
I was given a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Although it wasn't too hard to guess who the killer was, although a few times I went back and forth on who it was, I enjoyed that the author kept you guessing throughout most of the book until finally revealing who the killer was.
Romance was not at the forefront of The Scholarship, but Ella and Reese were both characters I enjoyed to read about and was rooting for them. Cass was also an interesting character to read
I applaud the author for taking the book in a direction I thought was unexpected.
Review also posted here: http://wp.me/p4Pp9O-G7
I was given a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 11, 2018
It's times like these that I really wish for a partial star review system, because this would have been a 4.5 star read for me. I LOVE IT.
What starts out as an innocuous romance novel curtails itself into a story of mystery, intrigue, and a serious murder investigation. My favorite genre of books are usually thrillers and mysteries, and this hit the mark so well for me.
This book opens up with Ella, a developmental fundraiser for institutions who is looking to return to her roots and go back to the Poconos/Scranton where she summered as a child. Upon moving, she learns that one of her friends from her lake summers was brutally murdered before high school graduation. She moves in, befriends her new neighbors, and eventually meets a stunning ER doctor named Reese, and I'm sure we can all guess where that goes. I'm not spoiling either the romance or the mystery, but know that neither disappoints, and you're left sitting up in the middle of the night knowing you can't sleep because you HAVE to know what happens.
A copy of this book was given to me by Bold Strokes Books in exchange for a honest review.
What starts out as an innocuous romance novel curtails itself into a story of mystery, intrigue, and a serious murder investigation. My favorite genre of books are usually thrillers and mysteries, and this hit the mark so well for me.
This book opens up with Ella, a developmental fundraiser for institutions who is looking to return to her roots and go back to the Poconos/Scranton where she summered as a child. Upon moving, she learns that one of her friends from her lake summers was brutally murdered before high school graduation. She moves in, befriends her new neighbors, and eventually meets a stunning ER doctor named Reese, and I'm sure we can all guess where that goes. I'm not spoiling either the romance or the mystery, but know that neither disappoints, and you're left sitting up in the middle of the night knowing you can't sleep because you HAVE to know what happens.
A copy of this book was given to me by Bold Strokes Books in exchange for a honest review.
May 18, 2019
I liked this book. When I got it, I wasn't sure I would, but Maddox won me over. Both mystery and romance, the mystery plot unfolds slowly with enough details and action to keep me interested. I guessed who the killer was quickly,but the author kept adding misdirection so I doubted myself repeatedly. And the motive? I was sure it was "this," but then it was "that." The romance moves a little faster, but both characters are interesting. They're established in their careers and satisfied with their lives, not expecting any romance to pop up in their lives. Both the mystery and the romance entwine to make this an engrossing read.
July 26, 2017
A very good mystery with a twist ending that I never saw coming...very well crafted in story development! Ella and Reese start out slowly and a little bumpy, so if you like a fast romance this book takes a while for that to develop. Cass is a wonderful character and gives an innocence, depth and grace to this story. I am so happy the Maddox choose to include a Down Syndrome character in this book!
ARC provided by publisher for an honest review.
ARC provided by publisher for an honest review.
July 24, 2017
4.5/5
Excellente intrigue. One question stay with the reader along the book. Who killed Steph? The 'why?' seems obvious as the intrigue doesn't appear to be particularly complex, but apparence can be deceiving. The murder is a character I love to hate he is downright disgusting. A pure product of the victim blaming society.
Yes, there is a wlw romance, a really slow burn minor romance. It leave all the place for the best character. Cass -the girl with down syndrome- her bluntness is adorable I fell in love with her.
I must praise the ending. Not what I was rooting for, but much more realistic.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Excellente intrigue. One question stay with the reader along the book. Who killed Steph? The 'why?' seems obvious as the intrigue doesn't appear to be particularly complex, but apparence can be deceiving. The murder is a character I love to hate he is downright disgusting. A pure product of the victim blaming society.
Yes, there is a wlw romance, a really slow burn minor romance. It leave all the place for the best character. Cass -the girl with down syndrome- her bluntness is adorable I fell in love with her.
I must praise the ending. Not what I was rooting for, but much more realistic.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 30, 2017
True friendship
I gave this five star because it was written beautifully. The storyline kept me interested since page one. The characters were great and believable. I kept thinking I knew who did but I kept second guessing myself. This was the first book I have read of the authors but it won't be the last. I definitely recommend this book.
I gave this five star because it was written beautifully. The storyline kept me interested since page one. The characters were great and believable. I kept thinking I knew who did but I kept second guessing myself. This was the first book I have read of the authors but it won't be the last. I definitely recommend this book.
August 11, 2017
I rec'd an ARC from NetGalley/Bold Strokes Books in exchange for an honest review. Jaime Maddox has written an excellent romance interwoven with murder and intrigue. The central characters of Reese, her sister Cass (who has Downs syndrome) and Ella are adeptly handled along with the cold case aspect. I was quickly dragged into the plot and read through the night unable to put the book down. Kudos Ms. Maddox. A solid 4 stars.
August 22, 2017
Mary Ann asked Elizabeth/Ella what made her think Mary Ann would like living in the Poconos . She was offered the job of Vice President of Development of a University there. The job would be a promotion with more money , more responsibilities, and more rewards. It would also mean Ella made it to the top of her field. When Ella interviewed she hoped to find an answer to sooth the discontent she couldn’t really explain. Ella needed a change. It was the next leg of Ella’s journey. Ella’s parents had sent her and her sister to the Poconos every summer to be with their grandparents and have some fun. The girls were dropped off in June and picked back up on Labor Day. Ella thought they were the best times of her life. Ella wanted the job but wondered if she could handle it. But Ella was good at her job even if she didn't have much time to spend with her friends as she was in a demanding field with many evenings spent wooing donors and at university functions. Her donors had given from five thousand dollar scholarships to five hundred thousand dollar buildings. In return Ella gave her time and that didn’t leave that much time to socialize. Ella was filled with excitement that she hadn’t felt in ages. Reese was an emergency room doctor. Millie Nathan was on her way in via ambulance with Engle. Millie had a bad heart and her vitals weren’t that good right now. Millie was the Senator’s- Josh Nathan-mother. Reese had known Millie Nathan all her life. Reese had known Josh since kindergarten and they were still friends.Reese called Josh to let him know about his mom. Beginning twenty five years ago a group of teenage friends had been devastated when their seventeen year old friend Stephanie had been murdered. Reese’s sweetheart had been Stephanie at one time. Stephanie had been killed accidentally in a time of great passion from her killer. Everyone had loved Steph. Twenty five years later Ella moves back and is horrified to learn her childhood friend had been murdered. When Ella moved back she started to get close to Reese. Then the murder gets a new investigation and the killer will do anything not to be caught. Ella takes a house sitting job so she has time to look for her own home as she had little time to do it when first moving back to the Poconos. Cass liked to come over and help with the dog Ella is also watching.
I had mixed feelings on this story. I don’t like the same sex stories although this one wasn’t too bad for the most part as the romance was slow in forming. I felt this was a good read with a good plot. But I also felt the story dragged I liked the idea of a mystery with a slow burning romance. I also liked not knowing who the killer was from so long ago. I think Cass added a lot to the story. I didn’t really care for the ending. I did likere how Cass and her Downs Syndrome was presented. Ao there were things i liked and things I didn’t when it came to this story.
I had mixed feelings on this story. I don’t like the same sex stories although this one wasn’t too bad for the most part as the romance was slow in forming. I felt this was a good read with a good plot. But I also felt the story dragged I liked the idea of a mystery with a slow burning romance. I also liked not knowing who the killer was from so long ago. I think Cass added a lot to the story. I didn’t really care for the ending. I did likere how Cass and her Downs Syndrome was presented. Ao there were things i liked and things I didn’t when it came to this story.
January 2, 2021
Thanks to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for the digital ARC of this book.
Ella Townes is looking for a change when she moves back to the mountain where she grew up. She’s shocked to discover her childhood friend (and crush), Steph was murdered years ago. A senatorial candidate wants this cold case solved, and doctor Reese Ryan might be in the hot seat. She didn’t kill Steph, but they were lovers, and Steph died in the closet. Reese has suffered in silence all these years, and doesn’t want to drudge up the past, or drag Steph out of the closet posthumously. Ella’s little sister, Cassidy, friend to everyone, has down syndrome might hold the secrets to the case, which leaves her vulnerable to danger from a killer who wants to remain hidden.
This one moved very quickly. I tore through it in an afternoon. It’s told in third person but changes perspective often between Ella, Reese, and Cassidy and the killer. As we race to the end of the book, we also race to the discovery of the killer. There are plenty of twists and turns, and I love a romance where the romance isn’t necessarily the center of the story. I loved Ella and Reese’s budding relationship, and it’s fitted nicely into the larger mystery.
Again, backlog, so if it sounds up your alley, check it out. It’s out. I fee like I’ve made the best decision to start my year off with lesfic catch-up. I’m not going to want to read anything else, haha!
August 13, 2017
I stumbled upon this book while searching for another book on Net Galley. The synopsis of this book intrigued me because I love a good mystery in a romance.
The story begins twenty five years ago when a teenage girl is accidentally murdered in a moment of passion. Her death has been an unsolved case all these years until Ella Townes returns to her childhood home. The quaint town she once knew is the same but different. She hoped to reconnect with her childhood friends only to find some where no longer alive. But she is also making new friends, friends that compliment her adult life. She has made friends with a down syndrome woman, Cass Ryan, and her sister Dr. Reese Ryan. The budding friendship soon turns into a budding romance. Ellie and Reese discover they have more in common than their present and Cass holds the key to all the answers. When Cass turns up injured they realize the killer from the past is part of their present and will go to any length to keep his identity secret.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was a page turner that kept me guessing. The plot was well thought out and the romance was delightfully mature.
***ARC generously provided for an honest review.***
August 22, 2017
Eh, I found this story to be pretty lacking in all departments. It begins with a manslaughter told through the perspective of the killer, with a sprinkling return to this perspective throughout the book, leaving the reader to try to guess who it is as he interacts with the main characters. It sounds far more interesting than it really is. Had this simply just been one of those girl meets girl books, it probably would have worked a little more for me, but tonally this felt "off" with seduction and sex scenes happening after a ridiculous hit-man attempt and during a cold case investigation. The mystery disappointed me and it really wasn't the focus of the book. The leads were okay and maybe they really should have shined in a different book but with a choice between a murder mystery and reading chapters devoted to schmoozing alumni for donations and charity events, one of the two is going to fall completely flat. That's what this book ended up being for me--flat.
ARC provided by NetGalley.
ARC provided by NetGalley.
July 31, 2017
I don't exactly know what to say about this book. I didn't love it and I didn't hate it. The writing was the best I've seen in a lesbian book. Although there were typos page 2661 or I guess at that word count on my Kindle on the IPhone. The chapter is The girlfriend did it. There is a section where instead of saying Reese was being questioned by the DA, it said Ella and then it switched to Dr. Ryan and then back to Ella. It was confusing and should be fixed.
The book itself well written, well thought out, great mystery, but horrid love story. I did not like Ella or Reese they both seemed insufferable. Class was good though if somewhat caricature like. Good story though, even if it is a slow read.
I received this book as an ARC from Bold Strokes Books and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
The book itself well written, well thought out, great mystery, but horrid love story. I did not like Ella or Reese they both seemed insufferable. Class was good though if somewhat caricature like. Good story though, even if it is a slow read.
I received this book as an ARC from Bold Strokes Books and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 6, 2017
Ella returns to the town where she spent her summers with her grandparents. Hoping to reconnect with some of the people she knew from the past Ella discovers that her best friend, Steph was murdered right before she graduated high school.
Ella finds a great housing situation, house sitting for a woman who is going out of town for a few months. She befriends the neighbors next door one of whom is a woman with downs syndrome, Cassidy, who loves to help with the dog she is supposed to watch. Cassidy's sister Reese is a doctor and soon the sparks are flying between Reese and Ella.
Reese also knew Ella's friend Steph and they bond over the telling of stories and sharing the past.
Well written Maddox does a great job of keeping your interest in the mystery while also spinning a sweet romance.
Ella finds a great housing situation, house sitting for a woman who is going out of town for a few months. She befriends the neighbors next door one of whom is a woman with downs syndrome, Cassidy, who loves to help with the dog she is supposed to watch. Cassidy's sister Reese is a doctor and soon the sparks are flying between Reese and Ella.
Reese also knew Ella's friend Steph and they bond over the telling of stories and sharing the past.
Well written Maddox does a great job of keeping your interest in the mystery while also spinning a sweet romance.
August 21, 2017
I loved this book.
I loved The Scholarship. Great book. It's an exciting, edge of your seat who-done-it mystery. You have a great romance set in beautiful Pennsylvania with a great cast of characters.
I loved The Scholarship. Great book. It's an exciting, edge of your seat who-done-it mystery. You have a great romance set in beautiful Pennsylvania with a great cast of characters.
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