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Lucy Kincaid #12.5 - Spiral
Two to Die For
Two tales of murder and betrayal from the Lucy Kincaid and Maxine Revere series
Spiral (Lucy Kincaid, #12.5)
Sean Rogan and Lucy Kincaid are enjoying their honeymoon in a remote cabin outside Vail, Colorado. They sorely need the quiet time alone—a break from the murder and violence that has defined so much of their lives. And for one blissful week, they are in paradise.
But they should have known that their idyllic peace would come to an end. When their reclusive elderly neighbor disappears, the police find no evidence of foul play, but Hank would never leave his beloved Golden Retriever out in the cold all night. With the help of the faithful dog, Sean and Lucy retrace Hank’s steps and learn a dangerous truth that may turn their honeymoon into their funeral.
Retired (Max Revere, #3.5)
Nothing gets under investigative reporter Maxine Revere's skin like someone getting away with murder, especially when the victim is a harmless elderly woman. So when 82-year-old Lois Kershaw contacts her about a suspicious death at the posh Del Sol Retirement Community, Max agrees to go undercover as Lois’s granddaughter.
Max is willing to go along with Lois’s wild theory — up to a point. Proving an octogenarian died of anything but natural causes is next to impossible, and soon Max wonders if the lonely widow is creating an elaborate mystery for attention. But as she digs deeper into the history of Del Sol, Max uncovers a dark secret and realizes that Lois—and other Del Sol residents—are in grave danger. Finding the truth will take all of Max’s cunning and street smarts—and a little help from her new friends.
BONUS! Special preview of SHATTERED, a Lucy Kincaid/Maxine Revere crossover thriller, coming from Minotaur Books in August 2017!
Spiral (Lucy Kincaid, #12.5)
Sean Rogan and Lucy Kincaid are enjoying their honeymoon in a remote cabin outside Vail, Colorado. They sorely need the quiet time alone—a break from the murder and violence that has defined so much of their lives. And for one blissful week, they are in paradise.
But they should have known that their idyllic peace would come to an end. When their reclusive elderly neighbor disappears, the police find no evidence of foul play, but Hank would never leave his beloved Golden Retriever out in the cold all night. With the help of the faithful dog, Sean and Lucy retrace Hank’s steps and learn a dangerous truth that may turn their honeymoon into their funeral.
Retired (Max Revere, #3.5)
Nothing gets under investigative reporter Maxine Revere's skin like someone getting away with murder, especially when the victim is a harmless elderly woman. So when 82-year-old Lois Kershaw contacts her about a suspicious death at the posh Del Sol Retirement Community, Max agrees to go undercover as Lois’s granddaughter.
Max is willing to go along with Lois’s wild theory — up to a point. Proving an octogenarian died of anything but natural causes is next to impossible, and soon Max wonders if the lonely widow is creating an elaborate mystery for attention. But as she digs deeper into the history of Del Sol, Max uncovers a dark secret and realizes that Lois—and other Del Sol residents—are in grave danger. Finding the truth will take all of Max’s cunning and street smarts—and a little help from her new friends.
BONUS! Special preview of SHATTERED, a Lucy Kincaid/Maxine Revere crossover thriller, coming from Minotaur Books in August 2017!
369 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 19, 2017
712 people are currently reading
1310 people want to read
About the author
Allison Brennan
110 books5,305 followersNew York Times and USA Today bestselling author Allison Brennan believes that life is too short to be bored, so she had five children and writes three books a year.
In 2019, Allison relocated from Northern California to Arizona with her family and assorted pets. She loves baseball, hiking, family game night, and (of course) reading.
RT Book Reviews called Allison “a master of suspense” and her books “haunting,” “mesmerizing,” “pulse-pounding” and “emotionally complex.” She's been nominated for many awards, and is a three time winner of the Reviewer's Choice award winner for RT Book Reviews as well as the Daphne du Maurier award. Most recently, she was nominated for Best Paperback Original by International Thriller Writers.
With over 45 books and dozens of short stories, Allison is writing multiple series and the occasional stand alone thriller. Her most recent book out now is THE MISSING WITNESS, part of the Quinn & Costa series. In June Allison is launching a new Phoenix-set series about a family of private investigators starting with YOU'LL NEVER FIND ME.
You can reach Allison through Goodreads or her website.
In 2019, Allison relocated from Northern California to Arizona with her family and assorted pets. She loves baseball, hiking, family game night, and (of course) reading.
RT Book Reviews called Allison “a master of suspense” and her books “haunting,” “mesmerizing,” “pulse-pounding” and “emotionally complex.” She's been nominated for many awards, and is a three time winner of the Reviewer's Choice award winner for RT Book Reviews as well as the Daphne du Maurier award. Most recently, she was nominated for Best Paperback Original by International Thriller Writers.
With over 45 books and dozens of short stories, Allison is writing multiple series and the occasional stand alone thriller. Her most recent book out now is THE MISSING WITNESS, part of the Quinn & Costa series. In June Allison is launching a new Phoenix-set series about a family of private investigators starting with YOU'LL NEVER FIND ME.
You can reach Allison through Goodreads or her website.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
December 27, 2021
This book is comprised of two short stories, one from the Lucy Kincaid series, the other from Max Revere.
Spiral (Lucy Kincaid #12.5) 4 stars
FBI Agent Lucy Kincaid and former fiancé Sean Rogan have finally made it to the altar and are married, on their honeymoon outside of Vail, Colorado in the new home he gave her as a wedding gift. Both are enjoying some much cherished time away from the stress of the last perilous case, loving the opportunity to just be lazy. But what would a Lucy & Sean vacation be without drama. When their neighbor Hank Henderson’s dog Bandit shows up at their door in the middle of the night, both of them know something’s wrong, especially when Hank turns up missing.
The case wasn’t a tough one but it was interesting and included an assortment of equally intriguing characters. Most importantly, it best illustrated how Sean and Lucy worked as a team, relying on each other for their individual skills and competencies while also working with local law enforcement. I liked the story and I’m now ready to return to the series as I’ve missed these two.
Retirement (Max Revere #3.5) 4 stars
Investigative reporter Maxine (Max) Revere gets a call that her friend Lois Kershaw is undergoing surgery following a heart attack. She met Lois several years ago when she investigated suspicious deaths at her retirement community in Miami, Florida. As Max waits at the hospital, she recalls their first meeting and the details of the case.
Max has often made reference to Lois and her friends in earlier stories so it was wonderful to revisit this case that had such an impact on her and endeared them to her so deeply. The case was extremely interesting as there were quite a few potential suspects and the killer’s angle wasn’t clear cut. But, Lois and her friends who assisted Max made this story a winner. They proved that being a senior citizen didn’t mean they were no longer highly useful and resourceful. They were critical to Max managing a successful outcome and saving other lives. I also liked learning more about her ex-boyfriend FBI Agent Marco Lopez and seeing why they ended up being so incompatible. The story may have been short but it accomplished a lot in delivering more insight into Max’s past and those who had major influences on the woman she is today.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
Spiral (Lucy Kincaid #12.5) 4 stars
FBI Agent Lucy Kincaid and former fiancé Sean Rogan have finally made it to the altar and are married, on their honeymoon outside of Vail, Colorado in the new home he gave her as a wedding gift. Both are enjoying some much cherished time away from the stress of the last perilous case, loving the opportunity to just be lazy. But what would a Lucy & Sean vacation be without drama. When their neighbor Hank Henderson’s dog Bandit shows up at their door in the middle of the night, both of them know something’s wrong, especially when Hank turns up missing.
The case wasn’t a tough one but it was interesting and included an assortment of equally intriguing characters. Most importantly, it best illustrated how Sean and Lucy worked as a team, relying on each other for their individual skills and competencies while also working with local law enforcement. I liked the story and I’m now ready to return to the series as I’ve missed these two.
Retirement (Max Revere #3.5) 4 stars
Investigative reporter Maxine (Max) Revere gets a call that her friend Lois Kershaw is undergoing surgery following a heart attack. She met Lois several years ago when she investigated suspicious deaths at her retirement community in Miami, Florida. As Max waits at the hospital, she recalls their first meeting and the details of the case.
Max has often made reference to Lois and her friends in earlier stories so it was wonderful to revisit this case that had such an impact on her and endeared them to her so deeply. The case was extremely interesting as there were quite a few potential suspects and the killer’s angle wasn’t clear cut. But, Lois and her friends who assisted Max made this story a winner. They proved that being a senior citizen didn’t mean they were no longer highly useful and resourceful. They were critical to Max managing a successful outcome and saving other lives. I also liked learning more about her ex-boyfriend FBI Agent Marco Lopez and seeing why they ended up being so incompatible. The story may have been short but it accomplished a lot in delivering more insight into Max’s past and those who had major influences on the woman she is today.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
June 13, 2019
This is an amazing combination of two novellas. I truly enjoyed both the Lucy Kincaid and Max Revere stories. It is a wonderful way to introduce readers who are fans of one of Ms. Brennan's series to her other series. I highly recommend this book.
December 10, 2021
This book contains novellas from two of Allison Brennan's popular series:
Spiral - Lucy Kincaid and Sean Rogan are honeymooning at their Vail, Colorado, mountain retreat, when they discover that their neighbor, Hank Henderson, has disappeared. The day before, Hank told them that during the night he heard a mysterious noise coming from high on the mountain and wanted to look into it. Now Lucy and Sean are left to find out what happened to him.
I liked this story and thought it fit well into the Lucy Kincaid series. Though they solved the mystery, there were a few details I would have liked to have learned.
Retired - Investigative Reporter Max Revere is asked to look into a mysterious death at the Del Sol Retirement Village in Miami. Lois Kershaw wants Max to ascertain if eighty-two-year-old Dotty Holcomb was murdered or died from natural causes as her friends were told. Dotty had not been feeling well for over three weeks, suffering from flu-like symptoms. She was the sixth resident of Del Sol to succumb to her illness. Max has her work cut out for her. She goes undercover as Lois's granddaughter, searching for clues at the retirement village.
This story from the past had been referred to by Max in her previous books. It was nice to learn what actually happened when Max went undercover at a retirement home.
I liked both stories in this anthology. My rating: 4 Stars.
Spiral - Lucy Kincaid and Sean Rogan are honeymooning at their Vail, Colorado, mountain retreat, when they discover that their neighbor, Hank Henderson, has disappeared. The day before, Hank told them that during the night he heard a mysterious noise coming from high on the mountain and wanted to look into it. Now Lucy and Sean are left to find out what happened to him.
I liked this story and thought it fit well into the Lucy Kincaid series. Though they solved the mystery, there were a few details I would have liked to have learned.
Retired - Investigative Reporter Max Revere is asked to look into a mysterious death at the Del Sol Retirement Village in Miami. Lois Kershaw wants Max to ascertain if eighty-two-year-old Dotty Holcomb was murdered or died from natural causes as her friends were told. Dotty had not been feeling well for over three weeks, suffering from flu-like symptoms. She was the sixth resident of Del Sol to succumb to her illness. Max has her work cut out for her. She goes undercover as Lois's granddaughter, searching for clues at the retirement village.
This story from the past had been referred to by Max in her previous books. It was nice to learn what actually happened when Max went undercover at a retirement home.
I liked both stories in this anthology. My rating: 4 Stars.
December 18, 2021
Spiral (Lucy Kincaid, #12.5) 3-Stars
Lucy and Sean just can't catch a break. Every time the try to get away for some alone time, trouble finds them and their honeymoon is no exception. The plot was very simple and there was no mystery at to the baddie. Not much romance, either.
Sean Rogan gifted Lucy Kincaid with a luxury home outside Vail, Colorado as a wedding gift. Secluded, private and on a dead-end street with only one other neighbor, the property is made for romance. When the dog of their nearest neighbor, Hank, a retired forest ranger, shows up in the middle of the night Sean and Lucy go looking for him the next morning and find that trouble has indeed found them again.
Retired (Max Revere, #0.1) 4-Stars
This novella filled in a few holes in the Max Revere character and was a nice suspense plot also. Since the baddie was apparent from early on, the suspense came from Max gathering enough evidence.
Maxine is called early in the morning New Year's Day and told that a dear friend, 90-year old Lois Kershaw, has had a heart attack. Max immediately books a flight to Maimi and while in the waiting room recalls how she and Lois came to meet and become fast friends.
Lois contacted Max eight years ago after the death of a friend in the exclusive Del Sol Retirement Community where they both lived. Now, the death of an elderly person, even one in good health, is not totally unexpected, after all, we all have an expiration date, but there were other suspicious deaths that had occurred. That really caught Max's interest and she agreed to go undercover as Lois's granddaughter.
The deeper Max looks into Del Sol and the company that developed it, the more Max was convinced that something was very, very wrong. Now, all she had to do was figure out the who, the why and get proof. With the help of Lois and her friends, Max uncovers the who, but the why and the proof are going to be hard to prove.
Lucy and Sean just can't catch a break. Every time the try to get away for some alone time, trouble finds them and their honeymoon is no exception. The plot was very simple and there was no mystery at to the baddie. Not much romance, either.
Sean Rogan gifted Lucy Kincaid with a luxury home outside Vail, Colorado as a wedding gift. Secluded, private and on a dead-end street with only one other neighbor, the property is made for romance. When the dog of their nearest neighbor, Hank, a retired forest ranger, shows up in the middle of the night Sean and Lucy go looking for him the next morning and find that trouble has indeed found them again.
Retired (Max Revere, #0.1) 4-Stars
This novella filled in a few holes in the Max Revere character and was a nice suspense plot also. Since the baddie was apparent from early on, the suspense came from Max gathering enough evidence.
Maxine is called early in the morning New Year's Day and told that a dear friend, 90-year old Lois Kershaw, has had a heart attack. Max immediately books a flight to Maimi and while in the waiting room recalls how she and Lois came to meet and become fast friends.
Lois contacted Max eight years ago after the death of a friend in the exclusive Del Sol Retirement Community where they both lived. Now, the death of an elderly person, even one in good health, is not totally unexpected, after all, we all have an expiration date, but there were other suspicious deaths that had occurred. That really caught Max's interest and she agreed to go undercover as Lois's granddaughter.
The deeper Max looks into Del Sol and the company that developed it, the more Max was convinced that something was very, very wrong. Now, all she had to do was figure out the who, the why and get proof. With the help of Lois and her friends, Max uncovers the who, but the why and the proof are going to be hard to prove.
July 18, 2017
I thought it odd that the author paired up these 2 series in a book, didn't think they would match. But after the note from the author I'm really excited to read the next book, it's time the Kincaid's learn what happened to Justin and Max is just the person to do it. It will be interesting to see how her and Lucy will react to each other. After reading the author note I thought it odd that Lucy and Max didn't met in this book, instead we had 2 separate stories.
I had to laugh at Lucy and Sean's honeymoon. These 2 have never manage to go on a trip where a crime doesn't happen. I liked how all the local characters were introduced, most of them through the bet between Sean and Lucy. It seemed like both Sean and Lucy did a great job of following the clues to get to the bottom of things. Of course money was at the root of things.
The story with Max was fun in that I loved how all the "old" people loved having Max around, loved helping her find out what was going on with their friends. The show down at the end was fun, loved that an abused person stood up to the abuser, loved that in the end that person got theirs. But I think the best thing about this was the friendship between Lois and Max, odd though it is with their ages, they are fun.
I had to laugh at Lucy and Sean's honeymoon. These 2 have never manage to go on a trip where a crime doesn't happen. I liked how all the local characters were introduced, most of them through the bet between Sean and Lucy. It seemed like both Sean and Lucy did a great job of following the clues to get to the bottom of things. Of course money was at the root of things.
The story with Max was fun in that I loved how all the "old" people loved having Max around, loved helping her find out what was going on with their friends. The show down at the end was fun, loved that an abused person stood up to the abuser, loved that in the end that person got theirs. But I think the best thing about this was the friendship between Lois and Max, odd though it is with their ages, they are fun.
December 22, 2021
Two novellas in one featuring Lucy Kincaid and Maxine Revere.
Spiral (Lucy Kincaid #12.5)
Lucy and Sean are on their honeymoon in Vail, Colorado enjoying the peace and quiet in the beautiful cabin Sean bought her as a wedding present. Their neighbor, Hank, is a delightful retired forest ranger and his dog, Bandit, likes visiting Lucy and Sean. When Hank disappears Lucy and Sean take a break from their honeymoon to find him. What else the find is shocking.
This was a nice quick read with an interesting investigation. Although Sean uses his computer skills and RCK resources, Lucy makes it known that she is not there as an FBI agent. She is there as a friend looking for a missing neighbor. She does use her title a few times, but still states that she is not investigating as an FBI agent. Although there are some unhappy moments, Lucy and Sean are now owners of an untrained golden retriever.
Retired (Max Revere #0.1)
Max takes on the case of a mysterious death at a retirement community. The victim’s friend, Lois Kershaw, calls Max in because she believes she was murdered.
The case has been mentioned in the other Max Revere books and I’m really glad the author decided to give us readers the whole story. Lois, Flo and Beau are a great group of friends and they are a hoot. They are determined to prove that their friend was murdered and they will do any Max asks them to do. There is no fear in this trio.
This was definitely an interesting case with an intriguing back story for the bad guys. What they did was just horrific and all done out of greed. I’m glad Max was able to solve the case and bring peace back to the Del Sol Retirement Community.
Spiral (Lucy Kincaid #12.5)
Lucy and Sean are on their honeymoon in Vail, Colorado enjoying the peace and quiet in the beautiful cabin Sean bought her as a wedding present. Their neighbor, Hank, is a delightful retired forest ranger and his dog, Bandit, likes visiting Lucy and Sean. When Hank disappears Lucy and Sean take a break from their honeymoon to find him. What else the find is shocking.
This was a nice quick read with an interesting investigation. Although Sean uses his computer skills and RCK resources, Lucy makes it known that she is not there as an FBI agent. She is there as a friend looking for a missing neighbor. She does use her title a few times, but still states that she is not investigating as an FBI agent. Although there are some unhappy moments, Lucy and Sean are now owners of an untrained golden retriever.
Retired (Max Revere #0.1)
Max takes on the case of a mysterious death at a retirement community. The victim’s friend, Lois Kershaw, calls Max in because she believes she was murdered.
The case has been mentioned in the other Max Revere books and I’m really glad the author decided to give us readers the whole story. Lois, Flo and Beau are a great group of friends and they are a hoot. They are determined to prove that their friend was murdered and they will do any Max asks them to do. There is no fear in this trio.
This was definitely an interesting case with an intriguing back story for the bad guys. What they did was just horrific and all done out of greed. I’m glad Max was able to solve the case and bring peace back to the Del Sol Retirement Community.
July 22, 2017
I loved these two stories! I am definitely an Allison Brennan fan girl anyhow, but I thought these two novellas were really well done. Lucy & Sean always find trouble & Maxine...she is something! If you're a fan as am i, of Lucy Kincaid series and the Max Revere series, these are a MUST, imo.
July 19, 2017
4 stars for the stories, minus one for the sheer number of typos and errors. Was this not proofread and edited? 😓
September 18, 2017
Love anything with Lucy in it!
May 9, 2021
Generally not a huge fan of the short-stories-in-between-real-books in a series. I preferred Max's story to Lucy's, but I think because I added this to my to-read list as part of Max's series.
September 30, 2024
3.5 stars.
There are two short stories in this book. The first is "Spiral" from the Lucy Kincaid series in which Sean and Lucy is honeymooning at a remote cabin but like any fictional crime couple, they can't seem to get away from it all! When their elderly neighbour's puppy turned up on their doorstep one early morning, they discovered the neighbour has gone missing and that something is going on in the lands adjacent to the neighbour's property....
The second is "Retired" from the Maxine Revere series (which I haven't read). Max is an independently wealthy investigative reporter and was asked by a resident in a wealthy retirement village to investigate the suspicious death of another friend and resident. Max seems to be quite an abrasive but straight-forward character from this first reading and doesn't appear to have a significant "other". Her intimate relationships seem to be of the on-again, off-again type. Will probably need to read more to get a better sense of her. The case was interesting though and I'm putting the Max Revere series on my TBR list now that I've a sense of the series.
All in all, this is a clever little book to introduce readers who are not familiar with either of Brennan's series.
There are two short stories in this book. The first is "Spiral" from the Lucy Kincaid series in which Sean and Lucy is honeymooning at a remote cabin but like any fictional crime couple, they can't seem to get away from it all! When their elderly neighbour's puppy turned up on their doorstep one early morning, they discovered the neighbour has gone missing and that something is going on in the lands adjacent to the neighbour's property....
The second is "Retired" from the Maxine Revere series (which I haven't read). Max is an independently wealthy investigative reporter and was asked by a resident in a wealthy retirement village to investigate the suspicious death of another friend and resident. Max seems to be quite an abrasive but straight-forward character from this first reading and doesn't appear to have a significant "other". Her intimate relationships seem to be of the on-again, off-again type. Will probably need to read more to get a better sense of her. The case was interesting though and I'm putting the Max Revere series on my TBR list now that I've a sense of the series.
All in all, this is a clever little book to introduce readers who are not familiar with either of Brennan's series.
September 17, 2019
So this book is actually two books in one.
We have Spiral, a novella from the Lucy Kincaid Series and Retired, a novella from the Maxine Revere Series. I've never read the Lucy Kincaid series but I did read the crossover book starring both Lucy and Maxine and it was phenomenal. So when I saw there was a dual novella book on my kindle, I snatched it right up.
Let's start with Spiral.
Lucy and her new husband Sean are honeymooning in one of his gifts to her, a cabin in Vail. That's right, he bought her a cabin. They've been relaxing, making love, and getting to know the area. It's so cute watching two very tough, independent people come together and do all the cute couple-y things that are expected on a honeymoon. But obviously, trouble follows them and they can never turn away someone in need. When their neighbor's dog shows up late one night, they know something is wrong. The question becomes, "Where is Hank?" The next day they start a search and rescue to find Hank and uncover a whole slew of mystery that must be solved. Romance aside, they jump into action.
Moving on to Retired, I love Maxine (you guys should definitely all know that by now). I love how I just spent all day intrigued by a potential murder in a retirement community. Max has taken on the role of Maxine Adler, art restorer and "granddaughter" to Lois Kershaw. Lois called her after the death of her dear friend, Dotty. Her hope was that Max wouldn't think of her as a senile old woman, but instead as a concerned citizen who suspects her friend has been murdered. With the help of Lois, Flo, and Beau; Max starts her undercover investigation to find out why so many senior citizens in the Del Sol community are dying after showing improvement from the supposed flu they all had. Max knows who to look at right away. It's just a matter of getting the proof she needs to take her investigation to the police.
This review and reviews for the rest of the Maxine Revere Series can be found on A Reader's Diary!
We have Spiral, a novella from the Lucy Kincaid Series and Retired, a novella from the Maxine Revere Series. I've never read the Lucy Kincaid series but I did read the crossover book starring both Lucy and Maxine and it was phenomenal. So when I saw there was a dual novella book on my kindle, I snatched it right up.
Let's start with Spiral.
Lucy and her new husband Sean are honeymooning in one of his gifts to her, a cabin in Vail. That's right, he bought her a cabin. They've been relaxing, making love, and getting to know the area. It's so cute watching two very tough, independent people come together and do all the cute couple-y things that are expected on a honeymoon. But obviously, trouble follows them and they can never turn away someone in need. When their neighbor's dog shows up late one night, they know something is wrong. The question becomes, "Where is Hank?" The next day they start a search and rescue to find Hank and uncover a whole slew of mystery that must be solved. Romance aside, they jump into action.
Moving on to Retired, I love Maxine (you guys should definitely all know that by now). I love how I just spent all day intrigued by a potential murder in a retirement community. Max has taken on the role of Maxine Adler, art restorer and "granddaughter" to Lois Kershaw. Lois called her after the death of her dear friend, Dotty. Her hope was that Max wouldn't think of her as a senile old woman, but instead as a concerned citizen who suspects her friend has been murdered. With the help of Lois, Flo, and Beau; Max starts her undercover investigation to find out why so many senior citizens in the Del Sol community are dying after showing improvement from the supposed flu they all had. Max knows who to look at right away. It's just a matter of getting the proof she needs to take her investigation to the police.
This review and reviews for the rest of the Maxine Revere Series can be found on A Reader's Diary!
August 23, 2025
3.5 Stars
'After being attacked and left for dead by an online predator, Lucy Kincaid survives and joins the FBI to help fight deadly cyber-crime alongside security expert and private investigator Sean Rogan.'
Two to Die For is Book #12.5 in the Lucy Kincaid series (Max Revere Series Book #3.5) by Allison Brennan.
The Lucy Kincaid series is made up of 25 books that all bring a gripping blend of suspense, action, and emotional depth that had me on the edge of my seat, avidly reading just so I could find out how everything would play out in the end.
Lucy Kincaid is a survivor of a harrowing attack, but who manages to transform her trauma into strength, joining the FBI to combat dangerous threats. Her journey is both inspiring and heart-wrenching, as Ms. Brennan explores themes of resilience, justice, and the complexities of human relationships. Lucy’s partnership with Sean Rogan, a private investigator, adds another intriguing layer, tension, and dynamic to the series.
These are fast-paced stories, with twists that kept me guessing. As Ms. Brennan’s ability to balance intense action with deeply personal moments made the stories feel both thrilling and yet still relatable. Each installment delves into new challenging cases/investigations, from escaped prisoners to dark conspiracies, ensuring the series never loses its momentum.
With a compelling MC, intricately woven plots, and lots of action- I definitely enjoyed binge-reading this series.
Well worth the read.
Happy Reading…
'After being attacked and left for dead by an online predator, Lucy Kincaid survives and joins the FBI to help fight deadly cyber-crime alongside security expert and private investigator Sean Rogan.'
Two to Die For is Book #12.5 in the Lucy Kincaid series (Max Revere Series Book #3.5) by Allison Brennan.
The Lucy Kincaid series is made up of 25 books that all bring a gripping blend of suspense, action, and emotional depth that had me on the edge of my seat, avidly reading just so I could find out how everything would play out in the end.
Lucy Kincaid is a survivor of a harrowing attack, but who manages to transform her trauma into strength, joining the FBI to combat dangerous threats. Her journey is both inspiring and heart-wrenching, as Ms. Brennan explores themes of resilience, justice, and the complexities of human relationships. Lucy’s partnership with Sean Rogan, a private investigator, adds another intriguing layer, tension, and dynamic to the series.
These are fast-paced stories, with twists that kept me guessing. As Ms. Brennan’s ability to balance intense action with deeply personal moments made the stories feel both thrilling and yet still relatable. Each installment delves into new challenging cases/investigations, from escaped prisoners to dark conspiracies, ensuring the series never loses its momentum.
With a compelling MC, intricately woven plots, and lots of action- I definitely enjoyed binge-reading this series.
Well worth the read.
Happy Reading…
April 30, 2019
An interesting novella split in two, the first half, "Spiral", focuses on FBI Special Agent Lucy Kincaid and RCK private investigator Sean Rogan, while they enjoy their honeymoon in Vail, Colorado at a second home that Sean surprises Lucy with for their wedding. While they do their best to stay away from trouble – meaning staying away from most people when it comes to these two – their kind neighbor, Hank, ends up missing, and it's up to Lucy and Sean to find out what happened. Through illegal mining, unfulfilled desires, and faked kidnappings, Lucy and Sean end up following a long path to the truth. But at least we know that they always get the truth.
In the second half, "Retired", investigative reporter Maxine Revere feels something in her gut when an old woman, Lois Adler, from a retirement home contacts Max suspicious of her friend's death. No one will take her seriously, since old people die suddenly all the time – but Lois' friend Dotty wasn't the only one. Max goes undercover to discover the truth and ends up having to break a few laws along the way, which only makes it more difficult on her on-and-off again boyfriend FBI agent Marco Lopez tries to help, but is constantly caught up by the red tape making it impossible to jump only based on the conjectures that Max has – that and her gut, that is. He needs proof in order to serve arrests and warrants – so Max figures out a way to get him just that.
In the second half, "Retired", investigative reporter Maxine Revere feels something in her gut when an old woman, Lois Adler, from a retirement home contacts Max suspicious of her friend's death. No one will take her seriously, since old people die suddenly all the time – but Lois' friend Dotty wasn't the only one. Max goes undercover to discover the truth and ends up having to break a few laws along the way, which only makes it more difficult on her on-and-off again boyfriend FBI agent Marco Lopez tries to help, but is constantly caught up by the red tape making it impossible to jump only based on the conjectures that Max has – that and her gut, that is. He needs proof in order to serve arrests and warrants – so Max figures out a way to get him just that.
January 29, 2021
Two short stories of Allison's main female characters, Lucy Kincaid and Max Revere. While I love Lucy and give her story, Spiral, five stars, I'm not a huge fan of Max's and give her story, Retired, two and a half stars. Both were a quick read. Lucy's is about an investigation her and Sean become involved in while on their honeymoon. Max's is about her past with Lois Kershaw and the story of how they met.
****
Spiral - Lucy Kincaid
Lucy and Sean are on their honeymoon when their neighbor, Hank, goes missing. While searching for him they end up finding what looks to be a gold mining setup. As Lucy and Sean search for answers, a neighbor's daughter, Gracie, goes missing and her father, Cyrus, receives a ransom note. Lucy and Sean volunteer to help with both investigations and are on the hunt to find answers before it's too late.
Retired - Max Revere
Lois Kershaw reaches out to Max when she becomes suspicious of her friend, Dotty's, death. She believes that Dotty and others at the Del Sol Retirement Community have been murdered instead of dying of natural causes. Max goes undercover as Lois's granddaughter in search of answers. As Max gets deeper into the investigation, she soon realizes there is more going on in this retirement community than anyone expected. As she gets closer to solving the case, she risks putting Lois and Lois's friends at risk.
****
Spiral - Lucy Kincaid
Lucy and Sean are on their honeymoon when their neighbor, Hank, goes missing. While searching for him they end up finding what looks to be a gold mining setup. As Lucy and Sean search for answers, a neighbor's daughter, Gracie, goes missing and her father, Cyrus, receives a ransom note. Lucy and Sean volunteer to help with both investigations and are on the hunt to find answers before it's too late.
Retired - Max Revere
Lois Kershaw reaches out to Max when she becomes suspicious of her friend, Dotty's, death. She believes that Dotty and others at the Del Sol Retirement Community have been murdered instead of dying of natural causes. Max goes undercover as Lois's granddaughter in search of answers. As Max gets deeper into the investigation, she soon realizes there is more going on in this retirement community than anyone expected. As she gets closer to solving the case, she risks putting Lois and Lois's friends at risk.
August 9, 2018
Lois and Bandit are the real MVPs
Spiral-
Fast paced and fitting for the couple who can’t go anywhere without finding trouble. The new addition to their family is fitting and I look forward to them being furparents! I love their siblings, but it was quite nice not having the focus of the story be on so many different characters. The action/intrigue was predictable, but the steps to get to the finale were entertaining and well developed!
Retired-
A perfect combination of history and current situation. This novella looks back to an investigation that has been referenced in all of the previous Max stories. The Del Sol community and wicked nurse was an interesting case, but what stretch me was the importance of relationships, listening and how people treat each other. I love Lois and her role in this story as it is the first time we got to spend time with her beyond a few sentences in previous stories. This novella also provided great background and bridging of Mac and her relationships that have been important in the past and currently in regards to Marco, Nick and her grandmother. I spoke about the last book ending on a sad note and this novella also addressed that concern. Look forward to he next book and hopefully seeing more of Lois and Max’s grandmother!
Spiral-
Fast paced and fitting for the couple who can’t go anywhere without finding trouble. The new addition to their family is fitting and I look forward to them being furparents! I love their siblings, but it was quite nice not having the focus of the story be on so many different characters. The action/intrigue was predictable, but the steps to get to the finale were entertaining and well developed!
Retired-
A perfect combination of history and current situation. This novella looks back to an investigation that has been referenced in all of the previous Max stories. The Del Sol community and wicked nurse was an interesting case, but what stretch me was the importance of relationships, listening and how people treat each other. I love Lois and her role in this story as it is the first time we got to spend time with her beyond a few sentences in previous stories. This novella also provided great background and bridging of Mac and her relationships that have been important in the past and currently in regards to Marco, Nick and her grandmother. I spoke about the last book ending on a sad note and this novella also addressed that concern. Look forward to he next book and hopefully seeing more of Lois and Max’s grandmother!
February 9, 2019
A lovely short read that fills in the gaps on our two favorite heroines. First Lucy - we learn how Lucy and Sean come to be the new proud owners of a puppy while on their honeymoon and of course, solve a murder, kidnapping and environmental crime. The second story has been alluded to several time in the Maxine Revere story arc - the time Max went undercover in the old folks home. Whoever said that retirement living was slow never visited here - a former pro-football player who still has his Marlbrough man good looks, more gossip than a junior high lunch roomand someone is trying to knock off all those who were smart enough to buy low and hold on tight to their dollars! Enjoy the read!
February 15, 2019
I read Brennan for the Kincaid series but I found the other story to be better in this book.
Even though neither is a full-length book, I still found that both stories dragged on in their second halves.
Maxine's story started out interesting as a mystery but so little was happening that I was just getting bored after a while, and the villain was completely unrealistic.
There were also way too many language errors, especially in her part. Where was the proofreader?
The Kincaid story was even more boring, I really don't need to hear about how the extended family of 15+ cops/mercenaries and their partners are doing every time, and the actual plot had no tension at all.
Even though neither is a full-length book, I still found that both stories dragged on in their second halves.
Maxine's story started out interesting as a mystery but so little was happening that I was just getting bored after a while, and the villain was completely unrealistic.
There were also way too many language errors, especially in her part. Where was the proofreader?
The Kincaid story was even more boring, I really don't need to hear about how the extended family of 15+ cops/mercenaries and their partners are doing every time, and the actual plot had no tension at all.
April 19, 2024
This has three books included: Spiral which has 11 chapters; Retired which has 12 chapters and Shattered which has 3 chapters.
Spiral - Sean and Lucy are on their honeymoon and their neighbor goes missing. Short read that has danger, suspense, lies and so much more.
Retired - Maxine Revere is an investigative reporter. Elderly people are dying at the retirement community Del Sol. Max goes undercover to find the evidence she needs and gets help from Lois, Flo and Beau. This has abuse, embezzling, murder, lies and betrayal.
Shattered - Into the story with Maxine Revere and Lucy Kincaid teaming up to solve the twenty year old murder of Lucy's nephew.
Spiral - Sean and Lucy are on their honeymoon and their neighbor goes missing. Short read that has danger, suspense, lies and so much more.
Retired - Maxine Revere is an investigative reporter. Elderly people are dying at the retirement community Del Sol. Max goes undercover to find the evidence she needs and gets help from Lois, Flo and Beau. This has abuse, embezzling, murder, lies and betrayal.
Shattered - Into the story with Maxine Revere and Lucy Kincaid teaming up to solve the twenty year old murder of Lucy's nephew.
September 4, 2017
I read the Spiral novella about Sean and Lucy's honeymoon. I enjoyed that Sean and Lucy were on page together for most of the book. Sean loves Lucy so much and while he's confident in most parts of his life, he has some insecurity that he's not good enough for Lucy. Lucy loves Sean and knows that in many ways he saved her and helped her attain a whole life rather than just a work life. But, she also has insecurities. It was great to see them relaxed and talking about their issues. The story was very good. I can't wait until the next one.
January 5, 2018
Two To Die For Is Amazing
I discovered Allison and her amazing talent a some years ago and I have been a huge fan ever since I found her books. Her stories are so vivid and detailed that I am on the edge of my seat reading. I have followed Lucy Kincaid and her brothers for a long time. The storylines are very well written and this story is just another example of an amazing job.
I discovered Allison and her amazing talent a some years ago and I have been a huge fan ever since I found her books. Her stories are so vivid and detailed that I am on the edge of my seat reading. I have followed Lucy Kincaid and her brothers for a long time. The storylines are very well written and this story is just another example of an amazing job.
January 18, 2021
I love Allison Brennan. I love her heros, her bad guys, her plots, her side comments, her sexy scenes. But one thing I cannot abide is a book with typos. It throws off my concentration. It takes me away from the story and into lesson planning mode on the difference between whose and who's. I get distracted and I have to re-read the page. It's not a pleasant experience. And this book is full of typos, mistakes and some words that don't even make sense. Why, Allison?
February 10, 2021
The first story in this novella starts with Sean and Lucy on their honeymoon.
Sean and Lucy must end their honeymoon when their acquaintance's golden retriever comes to them in the middle of the night, trying to get their help. Why are there loud noises at night, and where is the dog's owner.
Maxine investigates the deaths of seniors at a home. Her friend (who calls her her granddaughter) was healthy for her age, but........
Sean and Lucy must end their honeymoon when their acquaintance's golden retriever comes to them in the middle of the night, trying to get their help. Why are there loud noises at night, and where is the dog's owner.
Maxine investigates the deaths of seniors at a home. Her friend (who calls her her granddaughter) was healthy for her age, but........
October 4, 2022
Note: I only read the Lucy Kincaid novella here as this is where I am in this series.
Lucy and Sean are on their honeymoon in Colorado. No surprise it ends up being a working honeymoon. Their neighbor goes missing and someone is tearing up the back country looking for gold.
Cute novella that works just Lucy and Sean together. PS they take a dog back to San Antonio.
The second novella in this book is a Max Revere story. I haven’t started this series - yet.
Lucy and Sean are on their honeymoon in Colorado. No surprise it ends up being a working honeymoon. Their neighbor goes missing and someone is tearing up the back country looking for gold.
Cute novella that works just Lucy and Sean together. PS they take a dog back to San Antonio.
The second novella in this book is a Max Revere story. I haven’t started this series - yet.
October 14, 2023
Two to Die For. Two of my favorite series in one book. Happy for me. Lucy Kincaid and Sean Rogan get married go to Vail, CO for a honeymoon. This is called Spiral. While other book is Maxine Revere, investigating reporter. She writes articles for her website and closes cold cases.
I would recommend the book to anyone who likes suspense and FBI thrillers, or just sit on the edge of your seat who done its then these books and series are for you.
I would recommend the book to anyone who likes suspense and FBI thrillers, or just sit on the edge of your seat who done its then these books and series are for you.
June 29, 2017
Two stunning stunning stories in one book.
I am absolutely hooked on these series and this author. I've not read anything from her I don't like. This is no different and I love the mystery in it all. I loved funding out Maxine met Lois and her friends and the competition between Sean and Lucy. I really enjoyed this one.
I am absolutely hooked on these series and this author. I've not read anything from her I don't like. This is no different and I love the mystery in it all. I loved funding out Maxine met Lois and her friends and the competition between Sean and Lucy. I really enjoyed this one.
June 29, 2017
Two to Die for
A fantastic set. Plus, an excellent way to introduce Maxine Revere readers to Lucy and Sean readers. Loved the preview for Shattered.
Loved how Lucy and Sean always end up with trouble on their doorstep.
Maxine's story about how she took down the killer at the nursing home was excellent.
A fantastic set. Plus, an excellent way to introduce Maxine Revere readers to Lucy and Sean readers. Loved the preview for Shattered.
Loved how Lucy and Sean always end up with trouble on their doorstep.
Maxine's story about how she took down the killer at the nursing home was excellent.
July 17, 2017
This book was short and I really enjoyed both stories. Lucy and Sean can't go anywhere without trouble finding them. Otherwise there would be now story to be read. Max had to solve a case where old people were being murdered, and she was trying to get money. I'm so excited for the crossover novel coming out in August.
January 2, 2022
I liked these two novellas. I love any Lucy and Sean time which made the first novella, Spiral, enjoyable. It isn't as intense as most of the Lucy Kincaid books, but good just the same.
The second novella, Retired, is a little more intense. I'm becoming a big Max Revere fan. I hope that Allison Brenna has plans for more books in this series in the future.
A good end of year read.
The second novella, Retired, is a little more intense. I'm becoming a big Max Revere fan. I hope that Allison Brenna has plans for more books in this series in the future.
A good end of year read.
June 24, 2017
There's something to be said about editing...not sure what happened here but the number of misspellings and missing or extra words and random extra or missing punctuation....really distracting. The stories themselves were good.
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