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Dr. Katie LeClair #1
Unnatural Causes
Katie LeClair has finally settled down as the new doctor in Baxter, MI. After years of moving, schooling, and training, she wants nothing more than to find a place she can call home, and a small town outside of Ann Arbor seemed perfect.
Katie quickly gets to work in building a life for herself in Baxter, and beyond reviving her love life, she also finds a pair of business partners in a team of father and son family practitioners. But that idyllic dream is immediately shattered when one of her patients is found dead. That wouldn't be the worst thing, except the death is ruled a suicide, and as evidence has it, the suicide was a result of the medication Katie had prescribed. But she doesn't remember writing it.
When a closer investigation reveals it was murder, Katie is catapulted into an off-the-books investigation that leads her down a dark path of past secrets. But someone is willing to kill to keep part of the town's history in the shadows, and Katie must race to find out who before it's too late in nationally bestselling author Dawn Eastman's riveting series debut Unnatural Causes.
Katie quickly gets to work in building a life for herself in Baxter, and beyond reviving her love life, she also finds a pair of business partners in a team of father and son family practitioners. But that idyllic dream is immediately shattered when one of her patients is found dead. That wouldn't be the worst thing, except the death is ruled a suicide, and as evidence has it, the suicide was a result of the medication Katie had prescribed. But she doesn't remember writing it.
When a closer investigation reveals it was murder, Katie is catapulted into an off-the-books investigation that leads her down a dark path of past secrets. But someone is willing to kill to keep part of the town's history in the shadows, and Katie must race to find out who before it's too late in nationally bestselling author Dawn Eastman's riveting series debut Unnatural Causes.
279 pages, Hardcover
First published December 12, 2017
109 people are currently reading
2100 people want to read
About the author
Dawn Eastman
8 books414 followersDawn lived in Michigan for many years, in a house full of animals, unusual people, and laughter. She now lives in Iowa with her husband, son, daughter, and one extremely bossy small dog.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 225 reviews
November 30, 2017
This is a solid, light-hearted mystery.
Dr. Katie LeClair has moved to the small town of Ann Arbor looking for a fresh start after finishing her residency. Also, her boyfriend recently ended their relationship. Katie lives with her tech-savvy brother Caleb and works in a joint practice. Her life is disrupted when one of her patients is found dead under suspicious circumstances this event prompts her to find out what happened.
The novel is told from the point of view of Katie and is an engaging read. I like the fact that it was not gory or heavy reading but at the same time it wasn't fluffy enough to be categorized as a cozy mystery.
To me, it is the perfect mystery for the holidays. I really enjoyed it and plan to read more from this author.
Thanks to Crooked Lane and the author for granting an advanced reader's copy in exchange for an honest review.
FINAL NOTE: I loved the cover...
Dr. Katie LeClair has moved to the small town of Ann Arbor looking for a fresh start after finishing her residency. Also, her boyfriend recently ended their relationship. Katie lives with her tech-savvy brother Caleb and works in a joint practice. Her life is disrupted when one of her patients is found dead under suspicious circumstances this event prompts her to find out what happened.
The novel is told from the point of view of Katie and is an engaging read. I like the fact that it was not gory or heavy reading but at the same time it wasn't fluffy enough to be categorized as a cozy mystery.
To me, it is the perfect mystery for the holidays. I really enjoyed it and plan to read more from this author.
Thanks to Crooked Lane and the author for granting an advanced reader's copy in exchange for an honest review.
FINAL NOTE: I loved the cover...
December 23, 2017
EXCERPT: There was one thing that bothered her about Ellen's death. Katie had no memory of writing that prescription.
THE BLURB: Katie LeClair has finally settled down as the new doctor in Baxter, MI. After years of moving, schooling, and training, she wants nothing more than to find a place she can call home, and a small town outside of Ann Arbor seemed perfect.
Katie quickly gets to work in building a life for herself in Baxter, and beyond reviving her love life, she also finds a pair of business partners in a team of father and son family practitioners. But that idyllic dream is immediately shattered when one of her patients is found dead. That wouldn't be the worst thing, except the death is ruled a suicide, and as evidence has it, the suicide was a result of the medication Katie had prescribed. But she doesn't remember writing it.
When a closer investigation reveals it was murder, Katie is catapulted into an off-the-books investigation that leads her down a dark path of past secrets. But someone is willing to kill to keep part of the town's history in the shadows, and Katie must race to find out who before it's too late in nationally bestselling author Dawn Eastman's riveting series debut Unnatural Causes.
MY THOUGHTS: I mostly enjoyed Unnatural Causes, # 1 in a new series from Dawn Eastman. Although I found it a little light-weight, (I prefer my murder mysteries a little darker), it certainly didn't stop me from turning the pages rapidly. I would classify Unnatural Causes as a 'cosy', which is not a criticism, but personally I would have liked a little more suspense. There was certainly plenty of opportunities for this to happen.
I do have one major gripe which spoiled my reading experience, but I am probably being a bit OCD here. ... I hate loose ends!
3.5 ☆ for Unnatural Causes by Dawn Eastman, downgraded to 3☆ due to the issue above.
Will I read more in this series? Yes, I will.
Thank you to Crooked Lane Books via Netgalley for providing a digital copy of Unnatural Causes by Dawn Eastman for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions. Please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the 'about' page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com for an explanation of my rating system. This review and others are also published on my blog sandysbookaday.wordpress.com https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
THE BLURB: Katie LeClair has finally settled down as the new doctor in Baxter, MI. After years of moving, schooling, and training, she wants nothing more than to find a place she can call home, and a small town outside of Ann Arbor seemed perfect.
Katie quickly gets to work in building a life for herself in Baxter, and beyond reviving her love life, she also finds a pair of business partners in a team of father and son family practitioners. But that idyllic dream is immediately shattered when one of her patients is found dead. That wouldn't be the worst thing, except the death is ruled a suicide, and as evidence has it, the suicide was a result of the medication Katie had prescribed. But she doesn't remember writing it.
When a closer investigation reveals it was murder, Katie is catapulted into an off-the-books investigation that leads her down a dark path of past secrets. But someone is willing to kill to keep part of the town's history in the shadows, and Katie must race to find out who before it's too late in nationally bestselling author Dawn Eastman's riveting series debut Unnatural Causes.
MY THOUGHTS: I mostly enjoyed Unnatural Causes, # 1 in a new series from Dawn Eastman. Although I found it a little light-weight, (I prefer my murder mysteries a little darker), it certainly didn't stop me from turning the pages rapidly. I would classify Unnatural Causes as a 'cosy', which is not a criticism, but personally I would have liked a little more suspense. There was certainly plenty of opportunities for this to happen.
I do have one major gripe which spoiled my reading experience, but I am probably being a bit OCD here. ... I hate loose ends!
3.5 ☆ for Unnatural Causes by Dawn Eastman, downgraded to 3☆ due to the issue above.
Will I read more in this series? Yes, I will.
Thank you to Crooked Lane Books via Netgalley for providing a digital copy of Unnatural Causes by Dawn Eastman for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions. Please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the 'about' page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com for an explanation of my rating system. This review and others are also published on my blog sandysbookaday.wordpress.com https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
November 29, 2017
3.5 stars
This is a low key mystery, almost a cozy mystery if you will. It’s a nice change from some of the really gruesome mysteries I’ve been reading lately. Dr. Katie LeClair is just out of her residency and working at a small town practice. A patient of hers supposedly commits suicide using pills Katie supposedly prescribed. But she didn’t.
A large part of the beginning of the book is spent developing Katie’s character.
There’s a strong romance element here as well. This isn’t a complicated book. It’s just a solid mystery with lots of suspects to keep you guessing. I couldn’t quite buy into how much info the police chief shared, despite all the rationale given. But that’s a minor quibble. I’ll definitely seek out book two in the series.
My thanks to netgalley and Crooked Lane Books for an advance copy of this book.
November 15, 2017
3.5 stars rounded up to a 4. I could have used a little more excitement and I expected it to be a bit darker, but it's still a really enjoyable read that introduces a promising new character: Dr. Katie LeClair. I think I'll definitely pick up the second book in the series when it comes out! I'd love to read more of what Katie gets herself in to.
Dr. Katie LeClair is starting to adjust to small town life. After years of school and interning in a larger city, she has made her way to Baxter, MI. The rumor mill in a small town is always active, but now they have something very serious to talk about... one of Katie's patients is dead, apparently having killed herself. No one saw it coming. The empty prescription bottle found next to her points immediately to an overdose. It seems she took her own life with pills prescribed to her by Katie... but Katie has no recollection of prescribing them... or even thinking about it!
Convinced that the woman wouldn't have killed herself, she starts to work with the daughter she left behind to figure out the truth. Suddenly the father and son team she works with at a family practice seem a little suspicious. Anyone who works with Katie could have forged a prescription, and she's determined to find out who and why. There's someone out there willing to kill to keep things hidden, and digging up secrets and investigating the past can be dangerous, especially for our doctor playing detective... can she figure out the truth before she gets hurt?
This is a nice little mystery with some light romance. Katie is reluctant to start a new relationship after her last ended unexpectedly, even though she's had time to heal. But who can resist a handsome, helpful doctor? I really enjoyed the dynamic between Katie and her computer genius brother, who lives with her. They clearly watch out for each other, and it's nice to see a close sibling relationship between two adults in a mystery that isn't rife with drama. I liked visiting the small town of Baxter, and it was an interesting switch from my usual detective novels.
Crooked Lane Books sent me an advanced review copy of this book, thank you! This in no way affects my review, which is honest and unbiased.
Dr. Katie LeClair is starting to adjust to small town life. After years of school and interning in a larger city, she has made her way to Baxter, MI. The rumor mill in a small town is always active, but now they have something very serious to talk about... one of Katie's patients is dead, apparently having killed herself. No one saw it coming. The empty prescription bottle found next to her points immediately to an overdose. It seems she took her own life with pills prescribed to her by Katie... but Katie has no recollection of prescribing them... or even thinking about it!
Convinced that the woman wouldn't have killed herself, she starts to work with the daughter she left behind to figure out the truth. Suddenly the father and son team she works with at a family practice seem a little suspicious. Anyone who works with Katie could have forged a prescription, and she's determined to find out who and why. There's someone out there willing to kill to keep things hidden, and digging up secrets and investigating the past can be dangerous, especially for our doctor playing detective... can she figure out the truth before she gets hurt?
This is a nice little mystery with some light romance. Katie is reluctant to start a new relationship after her last ended unexpectedly, even though she's had time to heal. But who can resist a handsome, helpful doctor? I really enjoyed the dynamic between Katie and her computer genius brother, who lives with her. They clearly watch out for each other, and it's nice to see a close sibling relationship between two adults in a mystery that isn't rife with drama. I liked visiting the small town of Baxter, and it was an interesting switch from my usual detective novels.
Crooked Lane Books sent me an advanced review copy of this book, thank you! This in no way affects my review, which is honest and unbiased.
October 27, 2017
After finishing her residency Katie LeClair decided that she would best fit in a small family practice getting to know her patients well instead of a high pressure job facing emergencies and surgeries daily. Katie found such a practice in the small town of Baxter, MI where she has been working for a few months now. However one night Katie receives a call that one of her patients has been rushed to the hospital of an apparent overdose so Katie immediately rushes over.
After arriving at the hospital Katie finds that the paramedics at the scene had found an empty bottle of pills that looked like Katie herself had prescribed but Katie has no memory of doing so. When her patient doesn't make it that night Katie is sure there is more to the story than suicide since she would have had to have seen the signs. And just where did that bottle of pills come from? Katie knows something is up and decides to find out the truth of what she thinks could have likely been a murder.
Unnatural Causes by Dawn Eastman is the first book in the Dr. Katie LeClair Mystery series. By the look of the cover of this book I was sort of expecting a darker suspense read but this was a bit on the lighter side for a mystery. The author seems to have done several cozy mysteries before and you can certainly get that feel with this one so I would warn to expect more of a light read than the cover suggested.
When starting out with this book it didn't take long to become interested in the story. I found that while Katie may be slightly hesitant and not quite so sure of herself as a doctor quite yet that it gave her sort of a naive charm that I liked as she found her way to the answers she needed. And with this book being set in a small town it became one that everyone seems to know everyone which is always a plus and the gossip around town helped Katie along in her investigation. After finding this one entertaining I'll certainly be looking forward to seeing what happens in the future for Dr. Katie.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
After arriving at the hospital Katie finds that the paramedics at the scene had found an empty bottle of pills that looked like Katie herself had prescribed but Katie has no memory of doing so. When her patient doesn't make it that night Katie is sure there is more to the story than suicide since she would have had to have seen the signs. And just where did that bottle of pills come from? Katie knows something is up and decides to find out the truth of what she thinks could have likely been a murder.
Unnatural Causes by Dawn Eastman is the first book in the Dr. Katie LeClair Mystery series. By the look of the cover of this book I was sort of expecting a darker suspense read but this was a bit on the lighter side for a mystery. The author seems to have done several cozy mysteries before and you can certainly get that feel with this one so I would warn to expect more of a light read than the cover suggested.
When starting out with this book it didn't take long to become interested in the story. I found that while Katie may be slightly hesitant and not quite so sure of herself as a doctor quite yet that it gave her sort of a naive charm that I liked as she found her way to the answers she needed. And with this book being set in a small town it became one that everyone seems to know everyone which is always a plus and the gossip around town helped Katie along in her investigation. After finding this one entertaining I'll certainly be looking forward to seeing what happens in the future for Dr. Katie.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
November 6, 2017
3.75 Stars* (rounded up).
Katie LeClair is a small-town doc. Having just finished her residency, she is now settled in a small town outside of Ann Arbor, MI. She hopes that Baxter, MI will feel like home for both herself and her younger brother Caleb. Katie immediately starts working for a small practitioner and loves her job - that is until one of Katie’s patients takes her own life from what appears to be an overdose of medication that Katie prescribed. The problem? Katie has no recollection of prescribing the medication.
An investigation immediately ensues. As it turns out, Katie’s patient did not take her own life – she was murdered. Once Katie finds that out, she starts to investigate. And that gets her into trouble. How did a prescription with her name on it get into the victim’s hands? And who had interest in murdering her patient? Unravelling these questions take Katie down a road that reveals things she never imagined.
There are a few families in the town of Baxter that have secrets to keep. Secrets they would like to keep hidden. If it means killing in order to do so, well then, so be it. And Katie? If she doesn’t back off, she just might be next.
“Unnatural Causes” is an enjoyable mystery by Dawn Eastman that kept my attention throughout and had me worried for Katie pretty much from start to finish. I loved the characters of Katie and her brother Caleb and really enjoyed their relationship. If you are looking for an enjoyable, easy read, this is it.
Thank you to Dawn Eastman and Sarah at Crooked Lane Books for an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Published on Goodreads, Twitter and Facebook on 11.6.17.
*Will be published on Amazon on 12.12.17.
Katie LeClair is a small-town doc. Having just finished her residency, she is now settled in a small town outside of Ann Arbor, MI. She hopes that Baxter, MI will feel like home for both herself and her younger brother Caleb. Katie immediately starts working for a small practitioner and loves her job - that is until one of Katie’s patients takes her own life from what appears to be an overdose of medication that Katie prescribed. The problem? Katie has no recollection of prescribing the medication.
An investigation immediately ensues. As it turns out, Katie’s patient did not take her own life – she was murdered. Once Katie finds that out, she starts to investigate. And that gets her into trouble. How did a prescription with her name on it get into the victim’s hands? And who had interest in murdering her patient? Unravelling these questions take Katie down a road that reveals things she never imagined.
There are a few families in the town of Baxter that have secrets to keep. Secrets they would like to keep hidden. If it means killing in order to do so, well then, so be it. And Katie? If she doesn’t back off, she just might be next.
“Unnatural Causes” is an enjoyable mystery by Dawn Eastman that kept my attention throughout and had me worried for Katie pretty much from start to finish. I loved the characters of Katie and her brother Caleb and really enjoyed their relationship. If you are looking for an enjoyable, easy read, this is it.
Thank you to Dawn Eastman and Sarah at Crooked Lane Books for an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Published on Goodreads, Twitter and Facebook on 11.6.17.
*Will be published on Amazon on 12.12.17.
December 21, 2017
I give this book 4 out of 5 Suspenseful Stars! I really enjoyed this story and was completely engrossed by the suspense of this story. The story wasn’t too suspenseful but not too cozy either, it was mostly just right. I really enjoyed Katie’s character and the complexity of her relationship with her brother. I found Katie likable and relatable which was fantastic. The reason I am not giving this book 5 stars is because I wish their was some more tension in the story at some points. It’s kind of hard to explain, but overall I thoroughly enjoyed this suspenseful novel. The plot was very intriguing and solid. I thought this was a great start to an enthralling series and I am looking forward to the future books in this series!
For more of this review and others please visit touchmyspinebookreviews.com
For more of this review and others please visit touchmyspinebookreviews.com
December 9, 2017
Katie LeClair has settled down as the new Doctor in Baxter, MI. After years of moving, schooling and training she wants nothing more than to find a place to call home. She has found a pair of business partners in a team of father and so practitioners. Then one of her patients is found dead. Its sucicide, and they had took medication that Katie had prescribed. But Katie does not remember writing I the prescription. Was it suicide? Or was it murder!
This is the first book in a new series. We are introduced to the rest of the characters in this book (some might have a motive). As the plot developes, there are many twists to keep you guessing. This is an easy read. I read it in a few hours. A nice cozy mystery.
This is the first book in a new series. We are introduced to the rest of the characters in this book (some might have a motive). As the plot developes, there are many twists to keep you guessing. This is an easy read. I read it in a few hours. A nice cozy mystery.
January 18, 2022
Unnatural Causes by Dawn Eastman, narrated by Amanda Dolan Audible release, is a great way to get to know that a physician life and work usually go along and interfere accordingly. I would recommend this novel to medical students and residents. A physician, especially GP or a Family Doctor, deals with all kinds of humanly stuff. In this case, murder. Forged prescriptions, twisted medications and generation's quandary.
January 28, 2022
An interesting enough book, to listen to. It's not fast paced or a thriller like I was hoping it would be. Quite slow and not so entertaining. Expected the ending to blow my mind and have great twists to make it all worthwhile..... However, that never happened.
September 26, 2017
This new series introduces the reader to Dr. Katie LeClair. She's new to Baxter, Michigan and new to the medical clinic where she now works. She left behind her old life, including a boyfriend and now only wants to be in a place that feels like home.
Everything seems almost perfect for Katie ... she's loves the other doctors she works with, her patients are wonderful, and she's making friends. She's also aware that another doctor seems to want to get to know her better.
Almost perfect ... until one of her patients dies. The official finding is suicide by drug overdose. But Katie has question. Paramedics saw a bottle of pills .. with Katie's name as physician. But Katie didn't write that prescription ... or did she?
Katie has never been on to stand by the sidelines, so joins the victim's daughter is searching for the truth. They both believe this is a case of murder ... not suicide.
And the more Katie seeks the truth, she more secrets she uncovers. Someone who doesn't want those secrets exposed has their eye on Katie.
This is quite a change from the author's earlier books which feature animal communication, quirky characters and murders.
UNNATURAL CAUSES is a well written crime thriller with Dr. LeClair leading the way. Suspects are many and lend a credibility to the story line. There's the older doctor who asked Katie to join their medical practice, someone she thinks of as her mentor. His son is also a physician, who's having severe marital troubles. There's the office staff, one of whom is a gossip and knows every one and their business. The victim's husband (her second) is certainly hiding something ... but is it murder?
The book eased me into the story ... for a moment ... and then the suspense takes on a life of its own. Positively kept me glued to the pages until the very last word. I am really looking forward to Katie's next adventure.
Many thanks to the author and to Crooked Lane Books for the advanced ARC of this crime thriller. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
December 19, 2017
Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) provided by the Author and Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an fair and honest review.
Is it a Cozy or is it a Mystery? I don't know, but I do know that I really, really liked it. The start is slooow and there are a looot of characters, but please, please stay with it. The plot is inventive and those medical professionals out there will absolutely love it. There is a lot of medical detail and I bet they are spot on. Several trendy issues are here, but no preaching from the soap box. I will defiantly read more in this series.
Katie LeClair has her first real job after all the schooling it took to become a DOCTOR. She has chosen to settle down as a new doctor in a General Practitioner practice in Baxter, MI. It is a small, rural town where everyone knows everyone's business. She loves it. She and her brother Caleb share a house and life is good. Good, until one of her patients is found almost dead and later dies in the ER run by . . . Matt, the heartthrob resident from Ann Arbor. Not at all what Katie was expecting. And, on closer examination, this was murder.
Katie is drawn into the investigation by Beth, the dead woman's daughter, and it that leads her down a dark path of past secrets and unexplained disappearances. It seems that someone is willing to kill to keep part of the town's history a deeply buried secret or is it the present secrets that they are willing to kill for to keep hidden.
Is it a Cozy or is it a Mystery? I don't know, but I do know that I really, really liked it. The start is slooow and there are a looot of characters, but please, please stay with it. The plot is inventive and those medical professionals out there will absolutely love it. There is a lot of medical detail and I bet they are spot on. Several trendy issues are here, but no preaching from the soap box. I will defiantly read more in this series.
Katie LeClair has her first real job after all the schooling it took to become a DOCTOR. She has chosen to settle down as a new doctor in a General Practitioner practice in Baxter, MI. It is a small, rural town where everyone knows everyone's business. She loves it. She and her brother Caleb share a house and life is good. Good, until one of her patients is found almost dead and later dies in the ER run by . . . Matt, the heartthrob resident from Ann Arbor. Not at all what Katie was expecting. And, on closer examination, this was murder.
Katie is drawn into the investigation by Beth, the dead woman's daughter, and it that leads her down a dark path of past secrets and unexplained disappearances. It seems that someone is willing to kill to keep part of the town's history a deeply buried secret or is it the present secrets that they are willing to kill for to keep hidden.
January 25, 2021
Since finishing her residency, Dr. Katie LeClair has taken a job at a small family practice in Michigan. She likes the idea of getting to know her patients and not having daily emergencies. On her day off, Katie receives a phone call telling her one of her patients, Ellen Reilly, was found unresponsive by her daughter. When she arrives at the hospital, Katie learns that Ellen has died of an apparent overdose. Katie did not believe Ellen was suicidal. She also doesn't remember writing a prescription for the drug that Ellen took.
This is the first story in the Dr. Katie LeClair Mystery series. I'm not sure whether to call it a cozy mystery or a medial thriller. Katie decides to do her own sleuthing with the help of her hacker brother and a handsome doctor at the hospital. Unfortunately, this heroine sometimes bordered on TSTL. For some unknown reason, she didn't tell the police that she didn't write the prescription. And she didn't tell them that she was receiving threatening notes. Other than that, the mystery was well paced with lots of viable suspects. I liked the story well enough to continue with the series.
I listened to the audiobook version. Amanda Dolan did a great job with the narration. My rating: 3.5 Stars.
This is the first story in the Dr. Katie LeClair Mystery series. I'm not sure whether to call it a cozy mystery or a medial thriller. Katie decides to do her own sleuthing with the help of her hacker brother and a handsome doctor at the hospital. Unfortunately, this heroine sometimes bordered on TSTL. For some unknown reason, she didn't tell the police that she didn't write the prescription. And she didn't tell them that she was receiving threatening notes. Other than that, the mystery was well paced with lots of viable suspects. I liked the story well enough to continue with the series.
I listened to the audiobook version. Amanda Dolan did a great job with the narration. My rating: 3.5 Stars.
March 13, 2019
Unnatural causes by Dawn Eastman is the first book in the Dr. Katie LeClair mystery series. When small town doctor Dr. Katie LeClair is called to the death of one of her patients by apparent suicide, she is suspicious and when the death is confirmed as murder, the victim's daughter asks her to investigate. I enjoyed this start to the series and I liked Katie who is very capable with an inquisitive and persistant manner. The mystery was interesting and well written with a lot happening at once. I'm looking forward to the next instalment.
April 28, 2018
Dollycas’s Thoughts
I originally stayed away from this book because of the suicide theme, but now that the holidays, anniversary of my son’s birth and death have passed I was able to read and enjoy the story.
Katie LeClair fresh out of residency has taken a job at a clinic in Baxter, Michigan. She has only been there a few months when one of her patients dies in the emergency room. Her death has been ruled a suicide by overdose. An overdose of a drug that was prescribed by Katie. The problem is Katie doesn’t remember writing a script for the woman. There is also no record of it in the patient’s file.
When the autopsy comes in it contains a couple of surprises, including that the patient was actually murdered. Due to the original suicide ruling evidence has been lost so Katie starts investigating on her own with some shocking discoveries. Discoveries that put Katie in danger. This unusual death could claim one more victim.
Katie LeClair is a dedicated physician that wants to give her patients the best possible care. Her partners are a father and son and together they share clinic and hospital duties. She meets a diverse group of people at the clinic needing all different types of care. She lives with her younger brother, a real computer genius. Together they are still dealing with the loss of their mother several years ago. Katie also meets another young doctor that could lead to a romantic relationship. Due to a freak event, she is also close to the Baxter police chief. All of these characters come together naturally and are very well written.
Ms. Eastman gives readers a very suspenseful story. There is a lot going on and the suspects were tangled together in so many ways. I think the police really made a blunder my labeling the death as a suicide before they had the autopsy report. Thankfully Katie was doing some digging initially on her own. Clues were dropped nicely for us readers to follow but I was still juggling suspects when the killer was revealed.
A subplot deals with a very relevant 2018 topic. I was impressed by the way this was handled.
I am a huge fan of Dawn Eastman’s stories. This story had a darker feel than her Family Fortune Mysteries, but I enjoyed it just a much. I love the way she tells a story.
I originally stayed away from this book because of the suicide theme, but now that the holidays, anniversary of my son’s birth and death have passed I was able to read and enjoy the story.
Katie LeClair fresh out of residency has taken a job at a clinic in Baxter, Michigan. She has only been there a few months when one of her patients dies in the emergency room. Her death has been ruled a suicide by overdose. An overdose of a drug that was prescribed by Katie. The problem is Katie doesn’t remember writing a script for the woman. There is also no record of it in the patient’s file.
When the autopsy comes in it contains a couple of surprises, including that the patient was actually murdered. Due to the original suicide ruling evidence has been lost so Katie starts investigating on her own with some shocking discoveries. Discoveries that put Katie in danger. This unusual death could claim one more victim.
Katie LeClair is a dedicated physician that wants to give her patients the best possible care. Her partners are a father and son and together they share clinic and hospital duties. She meets a diverse group of people at the clinic needing all different types of care. She lives with her younger brother, a real computer genius. Together they are still dealing with the loss of their mother several years ago. Katie also meets another young doctor that could lead to a romantic relationship. Due to a freak event, she is also close to the Baxter police chief. All of these characters come together naturally and are very well written.
Ms. Eastman gives readers a very suspenseful story. There is a lot going on and the suspects were tangled together in so many ways. I think the police really made a blunder my labeling the death as a suicide before they had the autopsy report. Thankfully Katie was doing some digging initially on her own. Clues were dropped nicely for us readers to follow but I was still juggling suspects when the killer was revealed.
A subplot deals with a very relevant 2018 topic. I was impressed by the way this was handled.
I am a huge fan of Dawn Eastman’s stories. This story had a darker feel than her Family Fortune Mysteries, but I enjoyed it just a much. I love the way she tells a story.
January 6, 2018
This kept me interested but nothing great.
January 20, 2021
I’ve been on a search looking for new writers since the genre I love hasn’t been producing quality reads lately. So I’m trying writers new to me. Enter Dawn Eastman’s protagonist Katie LeClair. A mystery falls in her lap and Dr. LeClair has no problem trying to solve it. I get a kick out of the fact that she just goes for it. She just followed the thread of a straight forward mystery never trying to be clever or slick. I enjoyed the ‘doctors office’ collective. The winning aspect for me is her relationship to her brother and how they interact getting to the bottom of curious events. It’s lite but not fluff.
February 14, 2018
More of a 3.5 stars.
December 22, 2017
Unnatural Causes by Dawn Eastman is the first book in the Dr. Katie LeClair mystery series. I found this to be a suspenseful mystery that had me juggling quite a few suspects along the way. I love the redirections thrown in and the way the story just kept growing. I thought the ending was so good! I am looking forward to more books in this series.
Review originally appeared on Brooke Blogs. I received an early ebook and am voluntarily sharing my honest review.
Review originally appeared on Brooke Blogs. I received an early ebook and am voluntarily sharing my honest review.
November 4, 2017
Description
Katie LeClair has finally settled down as the new doctor in Baxter, MI. After years of moving, schooling, and training, she wants nothing more than to find a place she can call home, and a small town outside of Ann Arbor seemed perfect.
Katie quickly gets to work in building a life for herself in Baxter, and beyond reviving her love life, she also finds a pair of business partners in a team of father and son family practitioners. But that idyllic dream is immediately shattered when one of her patients is found dead. That wouldn’t be the worst thing, except the death is ruled a suicide, and as evidence has it, the suicide was a result of the medication Katie had prescribed. But she doesn’t remember writing it.
When a closer investigation reveals it was murder, Katie is catapulted into an off-the-books investigation that leads her down a dark path of past secrets. But someone is willing to kill to keep part of the town’s history in the shadows, and Katie must race to find out who before it’s too late in nationally bestselling author Dawn Eastman’s riveting series debut Unnatural Causes.
Available Editions
EDITION: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781683313137
PRICE: $26.99 (USD)
MY BOOK REVIEW:
I'm afraid I don't like the cover very much. The girl in the red coat has been over done. She seems to be on more and more covers that I review. The Protagonist is a doctor, so something that shows this would be more suitable.
This author also wrote: Pall in the Family, Be Careful What You Witch For, A Fright to the Death, and An Unhappy Medium. These are all part of the Family Fortune Mystery Series.
Unnatural Causes is the first of her new debut mystery series: A Dr. Kate LeClair Mystery.
I began this story hoping that I would be hooked within the first chapter and I was. The author's voice was smooth and compelling and within the first chapter, I discovered who the Protagonist was and what was the conflict--an unexplainable death of a patient that involved a mysterious prescription. There was also a mentioning of the driving force behind the conflict, but I'll let you read this for yourself.
The next chapter went on to clearly define the Protagonist's own history and the reason behind her many choices. A setting was developed, as was a secondary character aimed at helping the Protagonist to reach her goals.
As the story developed, we are introduced to many other characters, some with possible motives. The author transitioned from one setting to the next smoothly and enticingly. The plot continued to develop with many twists and turns that kept you guessing and your interest peaked.
Overall, this was a good, easy page turning read. There wasn't anything I found too exciting and riveting, but still interesting enough to finish the book. I had hoped for more.
I enjoyed the characters and their stories; they seemed genuinely real and wholesome. I would recommend the book to anyone wanting an uncomplicated read with a great outcome and interesting characters.
Katie LeClair has finally settled down as the new doctor in Baxter, MI. After years of moving, schooling, and training, she wants nothing more than to find a place she can call home, and a small town outside of Ann Arbor seemed perfect.
Katie quickly gets to work in building a life for herself in Baxter, and beyond reviving her love life, she also finds a pair of business partners in a team of father and son family practitioners. But that idyllic dream is immediately shattered when one of her patients is found dead. That wouldn’t be the worst thing, except the death is ruled a suicide, and as evidence has it, the suicide was a result of the medication Katie had prescribed. But she doesn’t remember writing it.
When a closer investigation reveals it was murder, Katie is catapulted into an off-the-books investigation that leads her down a dark path of past secrets. But someone is willing to kill to keep part of the town’s history in the shadows, and Katie must race to find out who before it’s too late in nationally bestselling author Dawn Eastman’s riveting series debut Unnatural Causes.
Available Editions
EDITION: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781683313137
PRICE: $26.99 (USD)
MY BOOK REVIEW:
I'm afraid I don't like the cover very much. The girl in the red coat has been over done. She seems to be on more and more covers that I review. The Protagonist is a doctor, so something that shows this would be more suitable.
This author also wrote: Pall in the Family, Be Careful What You Witch For, A Fright to the Death, and An Unhappy Medium. These are all part of the Family Fortune Mystery Series.
Unnatural Causes is the first of her new debut mystery series: A Dr. Kate LeClair Mystery.
I began this story hoping that I would be hooked within the first chapter and I was. The author's voice was smooth and compelling and within the first chapter, I discovered who the Protagonist was and what was the conflict--an unexplainable death of a patient that involved a mysterious prescription. There was also a mentioning of the driving force behind the conflict, but I'll let you read this for yourself.
The next chapter went on to clearly define the Protagonist's own history and the reason behind her many choices. A setting was developed, as was a secondary character aimed at helping the Protagonist to reach her goals.
As the story developed, we are introduced to many other characters, some with possible motives. The author transitioned from one setting to the next smoothly and enticingly. The plot continued to develop with many twists and turns that kept you guessing and your interest peaked.
Overall, this was a good, easy page turning read. There wasn't anything I found too exciting and riveting, but still interesting enough to finish the book. I had hoped for more.
I enjoyed the characters and their stories; they seemed genuinely real and wholesome. I would recommend the book to anyone wanting an uncomplicated read with a great outcome and interesting characters.
December 11, 2017
For complete review check out my blog at https://booksaplentybookreviews.blogs...
December 17, 2017
This may fit the check boxes of a cozy, but it does not really feel like one. But if you are a lover cozies don’t let that deter you because this mystery will keep you hopping from one character to another trying to uncover the mysteries surrounding this little town in Michigan.
Katie may be a newer doctor but that doesn’t keep her from making sure she is doing the best job possible for all her patients. We see the caring side of her with some glimpses into her childhood and the tragedy of losing her mother at a younger age. That coupled with watching over her younger brother gives her that edge and allows her to look deeper when one of her patients dies from an apparent overdose and the feeling that something isn’t quite right.
I never suspected the killer or the reasoning in their thought process until the killer was revealed. The sad part is that if all parties involved would have just talked more the story could have ended differently. The author did a great job of feeding us clues to perhaps suspect some secrets that had not come out over time, but not so many that you figure out the ending.
There is a budding romance between Katie and Matt, another doctor that she knew from her residency days and while he was filling in for other doctors in Baxter. I can’t wait to see how their romance blossoms in future books.
Katie may be a newer doctor but that doesn’t keep her from making sure she is doing the best job possible for all her patients. We see the caring side of her with some glimpses into her childhood and the tragedy of losing her mother at a younger age. That coupled with watching over her younger brother gives her that edge and allows her to look deeper when one of her patients dies from an apparent overdose and the feeling that something isn’t quite right.
I never suspected the killer or the reasoning in their thought process until the killer was revealed. The sad part is that if all parties involved would have just talked more the story could have ended differently. The author did a great job of feeding us clues to perhaps suspect some secrets that had not come out over time, but not so many that you figure out the ending.
There is a budding romance between Katie and Matt, another doctor that she knew from her residency days and while he was filling in for other doctors in Baxter. I can’t wait to see how their romance blossoms in future books.
June 16, 2019
Eeep -- I'm super excited about this new-to-me mystery series. This is the first book in the Dr. Katie LeClair Mystery series and I love the fresh angle. No bookstore in sight -- instead we have a hospital and clinic setting and a physician heroine. Katie is new to small town life but she's in the perfect position to gain the trust and confidences of the town folk...so, of course, when a suspicious death raises questions, Katie can't help but investigate on her own. Love her relationship with Baxter's seasoned police chief who isn't her love interest. But there is one and he is mighty fine! Engaging secondary characters, awesome setting and an intriguing plot make this an exceptional mystery...not quite a cozy since it's missing a quirky pet...but sublime in every other way. :-)
December 20, 2017
You can find my review on my blog at
That's What She's Reading
.
While I went into this story with the impression that it was going to be darker, it was ultimately a good, solid mystery that set the stage for a series that I am very much looking forward to continuing on with! It's light-hearted and low key enough for any mystery lover, but filled with more suspense and tension to set it above more traditional cozys.
I thoroughly enjoyed experiencing the small town atmosphere through the eyes of a doctor, and because Katie is relatively new to the community, you get to form your opinion about a lot of these characters right along with her. It was also quite interesting to watch her approach her sleuthing in much the same way that she would diagnose a patient, taking all the parts as a whole rather than trying to make each piece fit. In the end, there is a lot of doubt to cast on a considerable amount of shady individuals and I was kept guessing until the very end as the culprit was someone I never saw coming!
Additionally, Katie is such an extremely likeable and relatable character that along with the connection she has with her brother will make for great fodder as the stories continue. This was such a fast-paced and engrossing start to a series that I will definitely be on the look out for as more books come out.
While I went into this story with the impression that it was going to be darker, it was ultimately a good, solid mystery that set the stage for a series that I am very much looking forward to continuing on with! It's light-hearted and low key enough for any mystery lover, but filled with more suspense and tension to set it above more traditional cozys.
I thoroughly enjoyed experiencing the small town atmosphere through the eyes of a doctor, and because Katie is relatively new to the community, you get to form your opinion about a lot of these characters right along with her. It was also quite interesting to watch her approach her sleuthing in much the same way that she would diagnose a patient, taking all the parts as a whole rather than trying to make each piece fit. In the end, there is a lot of doubt to cast on a considerable amount of shady individuals and I was kept guessing until the very end as the culprit was someone I never saw coming!
Additionally, Katie is such an extremely likeable and relatable character that along with the connection she has with her brother will make for great fodder as the stories continue. This was such a fast-paced and engrossing start to a series that I will definitely be on the look out for as more books come out.
December 19, 2018
Better than a 3, but not quite a solid 4. Read as an audiobook performed by Amanda Dolan about 7 hours in length. An easy mystery read / listen with good female lead character. Easy to follow with just enough mystery to keep interests up; a bit of potential romance and sexual inuendo, but nice enough to listen to on a car trip with my mother; smart and not whiny characters.
December 11, 2017
Dawn Eastman, the author of the highly entertaining Family Fortune cozy series, is branching out with this book. Unnatural Causes is a fast-paced, solid mystery that kept me guessing, and the main characters are well placed to solve mysteries. Katie LeClair is a caring, gifted doctor, and what makes her a good doctor makes her a good investigator. Her brother Caleb is very good with computers, and since Katie saved the life of the police chief's dog, she also has an "in" with the police department.
All elements mesh together well and run like a finely tuned machine. The trouble is, I just didn't find myself warming up to any of the characters-- which is one of the main selling points of mysteries on the cozier end of the genre. Unnatural Causes is well-written and does have an appealing main character, so don't be afraid to give it a try. Your mileage may definitely vary!
All elements mesh together well and run like a finely tuned machine. The trouble is, I just didn't find myself warming up to any of the characters-- which is one of the main selling points of mysteries on the cozier end of the genre. Unnatural Causes is well-written and does have an appealing main character, so don't be afraid to give it a try. Your mileage may definitely vary!
June 29, 2018
I read this book over the course of two days, and between the first half and the second, I felt like I had somehow picked up the wrong book and started reading something else. The first half is entertaining and well-written, while the second half seems sloppy and thrown together with not a lot of resolution. There were so many characters to keep straight it became confusing after a while, and by the time I got to the end I kind of just wanted it to be done more than I really cared about finding out who the culprit was. There is definitely potential in the first half, but it wasn't enough to hold my interest until the end.
November 1, 2017
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I was unfamiliar with Dawn Eastman's work but wanted to read this book since it was set in Michigan. I grew up there and am always drawn to books that take place in various towns/cities there. I am extremely glad that I was selected to read this!
I enjoyed the book from the first page to the last. It was a light easy read that was suspenseful yet fun. It had everything a mystery should have. I cannot wait to read the next book about Dr. Katie!
I was unfamiliar with Dawn Eastman's work but wanted to read this book since it was set in Michigan. I grew up there and am always drawn to books that take place in various towns/cities there. I am extremely glad that I was selected to read this!
I enjoyed the book from the first page to the last. It was a light easy read that was suspenseful yet fun. It had everything a mystery should have. I cannot wait to read the next book about Dr. Katie!
December 18, 2017
Dr. Katie LeClair recently completed her medical residency and has joined a father/son practice in the small town of Baxter, Michigan. Katie takes it hard when one of her new patients is found dead, an apparent suicide. Katie is suspicious, even before the woman's death is rules murder and puts herself in danger to find the truth and prevent further lives from being taken.
I enjoyed this debut in a new series. The books gets off to a fairly slow start, but once it picks up, I became engaged in the story. Having a practicing physician as the main character in a cozy is interesting and unique. The best part of the book is seeing Katie on the job and all the details included about the interactions between Katie and her patients. I also like seeing how well she and her brother, Caleb, who share a house, get along and support each other.
Dr. Matt Gregor is perfect as a potential love interest and he and Katie share great chemistry. Sometimes parts of the investigation don't seem to fit together, making the plot hard to follow. However, overall, it's an entertaining book, and I would definitely be interested in reading further installments in this new series.
I received this book from NetGalley through the courtesy of Crooked Lane Books. The book was provided to me in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed this debut in a new series. The books gets off to a fairly slow start, but once it picks up, I became engaged in the story. Having a practicing physician as the main character in a cozy is interesting and unique. The best part of the book is seeing Katie on the job and all the details included about the interactions between Katie and her patients. I also like seeing how well she and her brother, Caleb, who share a house, get along and support each other.
Dr. Matt Gregor is perfect as a potential love interest and he and Katie share great chemistry. Sometimes parts of the investigation don't seem to fit together, making the plot hard to follow. However, overall, it's an entertaining book, and I would definitely be interested in reading further installments in this new series.
I received this book from NetGalley through the courtesy of Crooked Lane Books. The book was provided to me in exchange for an honest review.
January 13, 2022
Unnatural Causes is an interesting introduction to a new-to-me murder mystery series featuring small town Michigan doctor, Katie LeClair. More of a cozy mystery (not too gory or gruesome with numerous complex characters and just a touch of light romance) with Dr. LeClair as the amateur sleuth. Small towns are full of gossip, rumors, and old secrets from the past. Katie gets involved, initially, to sort of clear her name; she knew that she didn't prescribe the drugs responsible for the death of her patient.
Readers get to know that Dr. Katie LeClair is a dog-lover. That fact is the root cause of her relationship with the local chief of police and why he is so friendly and open to her involvement in the ongoing murder case.
It also plays an integral part in how
her investigation's conclusion unfolds.
I will definitely read book two to find out how Katie and Matt's relationship progresses.
3 1/2 Stars rounded up to Four Stars for a
good start and neat ending.
Readers get to know that Dr. Katie LeClair is a dog-lover. That fact is the root cause of her relationship with the local chief of police and why he is so friendly and open to her involvement in the ongoing murder case.
It also plays an integral part in how
her investigation's conclusion unfolds.
I will definitely read book two to find out how Katie and Matt's relationship progresses.
3 1/2 Stars rounded up to Four Stars for a
good start and neat ending.
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